KT's Kove

2011-12-05T10:27:00.002-07:00

I did!

2011-05-10T13:13:00.001-06:00

Decisions

2010-05-17T15:47:00.000-06:00

Should I or shouldn't I? That is the question...

Crazy Day!

2010-04-21T10:03:00.001-06:00

I wasn’t going to blog about this as to spare the poor family greater embarrassment, but as it was on the news I figured it was ok. Plus, the experience was a reminder to me that the Lord uses us in small ways to be His hands.

Yesterday I stayed late at work to get some homework done. I had a meeting later and knew I wouldn’t have time to make dinner and I was starved so I decided to order take out from Olive Garden. I never order extra breadsticks but thought I would this time to share with my sister and boy. Around 6:00 pm as I arrived to pick up my meal, I noticed commotion around the Shade store that shares the parking lot. I looked over to see this:

That’s right, a minivan inside the store. The vehicle was not intended as a display if you know what I mean. A teenager was practicing driving with her mother and when she went to park she kept hitting the gas instead of the break. By the time she realized what she was doing, she was in the back of the store. Miraculously no one was hurt. My boss’s wife owns the store and he sent me the picture. When I got there they were just starting to back the car out.

Curiosity led me to check out the scene and as I was leaving I noticed the distressed mother sitting to the side on the lawn. I stopped to see if she was ok or if she needed anything and she asked me to sit with her. I stayed with her and chatted for quite a while and helped her calm down while her husband cleaned glass off the car and dealt with the authorities.

When he was able to sit with her and I was able to get my meal, I realized why I had ordered extra breadsticks. (Oh, and in Olive Garden I ran into a bunch of old friends which was fun and also unexpected.) I took the poor couple some breadsticks to hold them over until they could go home. It wasn’t much but I’m grateful the Lord was able to provide her a friend and food when she really needed it.

After that craziness, I went to a neighborhood safety meeting because there have been shootings right by my house. It’s quite unnerving to think that we live in a warzone. We don’t really but there were three houses shot within a month in drive-by shootings. Once again, thankfully no one was hurt, but we are all on edge in the area. Hopefully they will solve this one soon.

Great Date

2010-04-20T21:19:00.006-06:00

Eks and I like to go on exploratory dates. We take off without a plan and see where the wind takes us. A few weeks ago it carried us to the hang gliders. I've always loved driving by the Point and looking up to see the sky dotted with brightly colored parachutes but I've never taken the time to actually stop and watch. So I made Eks stop with me. We ended up driving to the top of the hill and discovered the Flight Park where the pilots practice, take off, and land. We had front row seats and a personal commentator on the action. We ended up talking to an avid flyer for about an hour as he told us about the thrills, the dangers, and the possibilities, including cross county flights. It was awesome!

After our mountain adventure we continued driving to see what other exciting things we could discover. We happened upon this:

This is the backyard of a normal sized house in Riverton. It was right next to the Jordan River and they must have tapped into the water to create this lake. As you can see, it was literally a miniature lake complete with buoys, canoes, a pavilion, a beach, paddle boats, a plastic elephant and horse (is that typical of a lake? ;), a picnic spot, playground, and water slide. Everything you could ever need at a lake. I need a yard like this :)

Who's up for a ride? Not me :)

2010-03-25T11:35:00.002-06:00

Yesterday I bought a bike. What was I thinking? I am SO not a bike person. I didn’t even learn to ride until I was eight or nine and even then, I have probably only mounted a grand total of 13 times in my entire life! Ok, maybe a few more but not much. Remember the blessed moment in While You Were Sleeping where the kid is delivering newspapers and falls off his bike? That would be me.

But Eks loves to bike. In this New Economy, it is the better way (at least so he’s trying to convince me). Until now, I’ve had an excuse not to ride—I don’t own a bike. But no longer! I gave in and am now stuck. It even has a speedometer and distance tracker to prove how desperately slow I am riding and how far I don’t get. Oh dear, what have I got myself into? At least it was a cheap, used contraption so maybe it will break down and I’ll have my excuse again :).

Snow Camping

2010-02-01T16:44:00.003-07:00

A few weeks ago I had my first, and quite possibly my last, experience snow camping. We went to an area in Emery County and found ourselves a beautiful, secluded spot surrounded by beautiful cliffs and red-rock formations. We hiked some incredible slot canyons and took a moonlit night exploration through the crevices by our campsite. The trip was rounded out with tin-foil dinners, temperatures in the single digits, a coyote spotting, and a visit with my grandma and Madge. I also learned the positive power of the Barton name in Emery County :). It was certainly cold, but Eks did his best to make sure I was as comfortable as possible and gave me the nice tent, all the sleeping pads and blankets, and had a fire ready for me when I got up in the morning. In the end it was another great adventure and I can check snow camping off my list (not that it was there in the first place :).

The beautiful backdrop of our site.

Me at the slot canyons.

Mountainman Eks building us a fire with his hatchet.

Me totally bundled up. I could hardly move.

2009-11-25T14:25:00.002-07:00

This is a little creepy but a pretty song nonetheless.

Help!

2009-11-19T15:37:00.005-07:00

I have a confession to make. I’m addicted. To what you ask? Two things actually: CCCBs and eBay.

Chocolate Covered Cinnamon Bears are the delight of the universe and I can’t get enough of them. My dealer brings them to me almost weekly from his underground suppliers to feed my addiction. This is a major problem. I have figured out the source of this addiction: I relate to the delectable treat. Both of us are a perfect balance of sweet and spicy and in the shape of something cute and cuddly. Never mind the fact that you bite the poor bear’s head off. Now that’s I’ve figured out the problem, I just need to learn to stop!

As for eBay, well, that’s another problem altogether. A bigger one in fact. All of a sudden the Bidding button on my mouse keeps taking control and overpowers my ability to refrain from the incessant online war that results in injury to my credit card. I will not mention my recent purchases as they are gifts for others (at least I’m getting a start on my Christmas shopping) as well as a few spoils for myself (like I said, I can’t resist). Someone help me!

Are my problems significant enough that I should consider rehab?

Roc the Mic Right

2009-11-13T10:17:00.006-07:00

I've been reading a book for class called Roc the Mic Right that deals with the culture and language of Hip Hop. It's an interesting book though I wouldn't recommend it. However, it did contain this absolute gem! (quoting a Hip Hop artist discussing the Cipha, or verbal battle ground where they duke it out in rhyme and invent all kinds of new words. Here is a conversation by the artist using some of the unique Hip Hop terms)

What’s crackulatin, pimpin? I was choppin it up wit my playa-potna last night on my communicator—then we got to marinatin, you underdig—and I come to find out that the homie has so much fedi that he was tycoonin, I mean, pimpin on some real boss-status, you smell me?

Stay tuned for the translation... :)

Oh, and Happy Friday the 13th! 13 is my lucky number so maybe this will be my lucky day. My paper is mostly done so the day can only get better :)

2009-11-06T13:07:00.002-07:00

NFL OWNER, PAUL ALLEN, of The Seattle Seahawks Speaks Out on Mormons

Paul Allen, owner of the Seattle Seahawks and the Portland Trail Blazers and co-partner with Bill Gates in Microsoft, wrote this editorial in the Santa Clarita, California newspaper:

I have heard and seen enough! I have lived in the West all my life. I have worked around them. They have worked for me and I for them. When I was young, I
dated their daughters. When I got married they came to my wedding. Now that I have daughters of my own, some of their boys have dated my daughters. I would be privileged if one of them were to be my son-in-law.

I'm talking about the Mormons.

They are some of the most honest, hardworking people I have ever known. They are spiritual, probably more than most other so-called religious people I have encountered. They study the Bible and teach from it as much as any Christian church ever has. They serve their religion without pay in every conceivable capacity. Not one of their leaders, teachers, counselors, Bishops or music directors receive one dime for the hours of labor they put in.

The Mormons have a non-paid ministry - a fact that is not generally known. I have heard many times from the pulpits of others how evil and non-Christian they are and that they will not go to heaven. I decided recently to attend one of their services near my home to see for myself.

What a surprise!

What I heard and saw was just the opposite from what the religious ministers of the day were telling me. I found a very simple service with no fanfare. I found a people with a great sense of humor and a well-balanced spiritual side. There was no loud music. Just a simple service, with the members themselves giving the several short sermons.

They urge their youth to be morally clean and live a good life. They teach the gospel of Christ, as they understand it. The name of their church is "The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day-Saints. Does that sound like a non-Christian church to you?
I asked them many questions about what they teach and why. I got answers that in most cases were from the New Testament. Their ideas and
doctrines did not seem too far fetched for my understanding. When I read their "Book of Mormon" I was also very surprised to find just the opposite from what I had been told I would find.

Then I went to another church's pastor to ask him some of the same questions about doctrine. To my surprise, when he found out
that I was in some way investigating the Mormons, he became hostile. He referred to them as a non-Christian cult. I received what
sounded to me like evil propaganda against those people. He stated bluntly that they were not Christian and that they did not fit into the
Christian mold. He also told me that they don't really believe the Bible. He gave me a pile of anti-Mormon literature... He began to rant
that the Mormons were not telling me the truth about what they stand for. He didn't want to hear anything good about them.
At first I was surprised and then again, I wasn't. I began to wonder. I have never known of a cult that supports the Boy Scouts of America. According to the Boy Scouts, over a third of all the Boy Scout troops in the United States are Mormon.

What cult do you know of that has a welfare system second to none in this country? They have farms, canneries and cattle ranches to help take care of the unfortunate ones who might be down and out and in need of a little help. The Mormon Church has donated millions to welfare causes around the world without a word of credit. They have donated thousands to help rebuild Baptist churches that were burned a few years ago. They have donated tons of medical supplies
to countries ravaged by earthquakes.

You never see them on TV begging for money. What cult do you know that instills in its members to obey the law, pay their taxes, serve in the military if asked and be a good Christian by living high moral standards? Did you know that hundreds of thousands of Mormon youth get up before high school starts in the morning to
attend a religious training class? They have basketball and softball leagues and supervised youth dances every month.
They are recruited by the FBI, the State Department and every police department in the country, because they are Trustworthy. They are taught not to drink nor take drugs. They are in the Secret Service - those who protect the President.

They serve in high leadership positions from both parties in Congress and in the US Senate, and have been governors of several states other than Utah. They serve with distinction and honor. If you have Mormons living near, you will probably find them to be your best friends and neighbors. They are Christians who try to live what they preach. They are not perfect and they are the first to admit this. I have known some of them who could not live their religion, just like many of us. The rhetoric which is spread around against them is nothing more than evil propaganda founded in untruths.

(Others) had successfully demonized them to the point that the general public has no idea what they actually believe and teach. If you really want to know the truth, go see for yourself.. You also will be surprised.

When I first moved here some 25 years ago there were five Mormon wards in Santa Clarita, Calif. Now there are 15.. They must be doing something right.

Blessings Galore!!

2009-11-05T10:13:00.001-07:00

What a gorgeous week we’ve had! Granted, I’ve spent most of it inside :) but I try to steal a few minutes out each day to store up sun before winter. The beauty of each day and my Relief Society lesson on Sunday about gratitude have put my many blessings at the forefront of my thoughts. I am just SOOO grateful for life! I have been so blessed and I thank the Lord every day for the wonderful and abundant blessings I have been given. I will spare you my list, but it is long. Thank you to each of my friends that have truly touched my life. Thank you family for your constant love. And thank you Heavenly Father for joy and life and, well, EVERYTHING! Thanks for sending warm days in November postponing the winter woes. :)

During testimony meeting on Sunday, many people got up and also expressed gratitude for the sun and warm days. Then, our Elders Quorum President got up and said that the Lord loves them in rainy Oregon, too. All I can say is, I’m grateful for sun and I’m especially grateful I don’t live in Oregon! :)

Here's my family out enjoying the beautiful leaves and weather. I have the greatest family!

2009-10-22T20:42:00.001-06:00

The sad thing is I can ALMOST see myself doing this :) (Almost being the operative word here)

Canyon Time!

2009-10-11T22:27:00.005-06:00

Eks and I headed up the canyon and finally took some pictures together:

100 Days of Eks and Katie

2009-09-19T19:19:00.003-06:00

Today I celebrate 100 days with my boyfriend. Yeah! That's a record for me. In the past I haven't been good at the long term relationship thing so this is a big step. No, I'm not making any announcements; we're just taking it one day at a time and enjoying the moments. He's a great guy and makes life an adventure. For instance...on our second date, he took me up American Fork Canyon late at night, stopped by the reservoir, pulled out an inflatable kayak, and we went kayaking under the stars at midnight. It was fantastic! Dating is fun! :)
I only write this post as part of my explanation for my disappearance on this blog. Not that anyone reads it but just in case :)
Other updates on my life include a new job and grad school. This summer I started the Technical Writing Master's program at Utah State University and began a new job at another network marketing company as a project manager for the Marketing Communications department.
So, between school, work, boyfriend, working at the temple and my calling in the RS pres, my life is nuts! Hence the lack of posts. I'm not promising more either. I should be doing homework at this very moment. Talk to you sometime!... ;)

Another Year and we haven't forgotten

2009-09-11T10:18:00.004-06:00

I'm resurrecting this from last year:

Remember

It has been eight years and how quickly it passed. Everyone has a story and remembers where they were on that fateful Tuesday morning. I have my own personal memories that, eight years later, are still not written down. This is for me and my future family, so that we do not forget.

The fall of 2001 found me living a dream. I had visited Washington D.C. as a senior in high school and it had changed me. I fell in love with the city- it called to me- and I knew that one day I would live there. That “one day” came while I was a junior at the University of Utah when I was offered an internship with a media production company called Global Village Communications in Alexandria, VA. It was a season in my life that still affects me to this day. My eyes were opened to a new world and a new me, and I was happy.

My commute to work each morning involved taking the metro and then walking about a half a mile to the office. At one point in the trek, I went up a hill, turned a corner and was welcomed by the sight of the Capital and Washington Monument. The morning of September 11, I distinctly remember turning the corner to that incredible view and feeling an intense feeling that something was wrong. I paused and said a prayer that everything would be ok with my family. Then I entered the office and began my normal day.

We were interviewing a high school tennis player for a video and he had just arrived. Not too long after, a co-worker called, frantic, and started describing an airplane and towers and I didn’t know what else. I couldn’t make sense of what she was saying so she finally said “just turn on the t.v.” We did and immediately understood. We watched in awe with the rest of the world as the smoke swelled from the buildings. Soon they started announcing that the Pentagon had been hit. Sure enough, we opened the blinds on the second floor of our office to a screen of billowing thick, black smoke. Our office was about 2 miles from the Pentagon- close enough that a few hours later we heard and felt an after explosion (or something, we’re not sure what) shake our building and draw all the neighboring workers into the street in curiosity. We stood in the road together, staring into the black cloud, in shock and disbelief at what was occurring.

At word that the Pentagon was hit, our camera crew took off to get some footage, leaving me alone in the office with an anxious tennis player whose parents were both in the White House at the time. He had no way of reaching them or learning of their condition. At the time, rumor was spreading that another plane was headed toward the Capital so we were all on pins and needles. I emailed my dad for a bit and let him know I was fine. (Later that night I received many phone calls from frantic people back in Utah wanting to make sure I was alive. I didn’t realize how panicked they must have been. I knew that the damage was isolated and that I was a safe distance away but all they knew was that I was in a target city).

We spent the rest of the day trying to reach his parents and watching the t.v. along with the rest of the world. By that time, the towers had collapsed, but we continued to tune in for hopes of more information or to find out that this was all just a dream- or nightmare.

I didn’t realize the grandeur of it all until my roommate called. She had been alone in her office on Capital Hill and was surprised by a soldier knocking at her door. They evacuated the entire capital and she was forced onto the metro, then onto a bus around the Pentagon, then back onto the metro, arriving home hours later. She said that Salt Lake was calling to make sure we were all accounted for and she informed me that I was the only one of the 30+ interns still at work. That’s when it hit me how bad this really was.

I went home and spent some time with my boyfriend and on the phone with friends and family from back home as we tried to grasp it all and predict the future implications of the event.

The next day the world was changed. I remember stepping into the metro Wednesday morning to a thick feeling of sorrow. It was nearly tangible- and silent. For a long time the Pentagon metro stop was closed, but after a while it was reopened to individuals with I.D. only. You knew that everyone who got on or off at the stop had been there at the time of the attack.

That night, September 12, I went to a prayer/candlelight vigil at the Capital. All the Senators held a memorial inside while hundreds of us honored outside at the Reflecting Pool. We lit candles and sang patriotic songs. A few of the firemen who had battled the blaze at the Pentagon were there and they had, draped over their fire truck, a flag that had flown at the Pentagon at the time of the attack. It was a humbling experience to be there and participate in that. I was grateful to be close and to be able to take part with hundreds of other strangers as we connected in feelings of sorrow, hope, patriotism and gratitude.
I attended another such prayer vigil at the Lincoln Memorial the following Friday night.

That Friday brought with it a small miracle. It was a day designated by President Bush to commemorate the victims. At noon he asked that the nation pause in a moment of silence. The day had been a gloomy one and started out with rain. Our film crew had gone to the Pentagon to get footage but had forgotten some pieces of camera equipment. Two co-workers and I headed out to bring the materials to them. At the appointed 12 o’clock, we pulled over to the side of the road to observe the moment of silence. Our car was facing the direction of the Pentagon but we could not see the actual building from where we were. We looked up into the sky toward where the Pentagon was and saw the most incredible thing. The clouds and gray sky parted and the sun shone brightly through- just in that one spot. It was truly amazing. My co-worker called a radio station to let them know, through her tears, what we had just witnessed. It was such a remarkable moment of hope.

There were so many other instances of hope and goodness that came from the experience, despite all the horror. Growing up, I had often reflected on how the characters in the Book of Mormon were able to recognize the hand of the Lord in disasters and trials and they were consequently humbled and turned to the Lord. In all my life I had not seen that happened and wondered why disasters in our day did not have the same affect. This one did. For the first time I witnessed that very phenomenon as people turned to God and were suddenly not afraid to shamelessly declare their love for, and reliance on, Him.

I was grateful for the time that I had in D.C. We visited NYC 11 days later and witnessed for ourselves Ground Zero and the devastating effects the attacks had had there. We saw the buildings covered in ash and visited the church that housed so many people during the frightening first few days. But I also saw the resiliency of the cities and the people there. I attended a press conference in the Washington National Airport as they addressed new security measures. I witnessed the reopening of the airport weeks later and panicked a bit as it looked like the planes were again flying right into the ground as the airport is in the middle of the city. D.C. continued to experience difficulties- a tornado, Anthrax scare, and plenty of uncertainty- but it was an exciting place to be at the same time. It was life changing for me to participate in a great change in our nation and to be so close to all that was occurring.

Hi X!

2009-08-25T09:17:00.001-06:00

Wink... ;)

2009-06-16T10:49:00.000-06:00

2009-05-13T11:24:00.002-06:00

I haven't had anything interesting to blog about for a while so I'll throw this up:

2009-04-23T09:49:00.002-06:00

Ever get the feeling your stuff strutted off without you? ;)

Woes of Dating...but life is good :)

2009-04-10T13:08:00.004-06:00

Two things have been on my mind lately. In reality, they are quite contradictory but regardless, it is my life at the moment.

The first is the Woes of Dating. I recognize that I live a pretty good life and I am so grateful (see next section) but there are times when I would like to just MOVE ON! Single life is great but, naturally, I am drawn to want to find that special someone to love me forever. Who doesn’t want that, really? :) And so, I continue to subject myself to endless dates (most of which are fun) and social activities (nothing wrong with playing hard while I’m looking) in hopes of finding ‘the one’ and have gotten stuck on an emotional roller coaster to which the conductor keeps pressing ‘GO’ and won’t let me off. If this continues I might get sick :)

So I put out the call (via Facebook, mind you. Probably not the smartest move as it resulted in more dating woes, but it was entertaining none the less):

Katie Barton has a job opening for Boyfriend. Applications available.

The position is part-time with the option to become full-time and permanent depending on the execution of the new hire in performing the job requirements. Qualifications include, but are not limited to: independent guy with good sense of humor, loyal, caring, generous, intelligent, and ambitious. Must be adventurous and show genuine interest in spending time with me. Hot pursuit and benefaction will most likely be necessary to win me over. Musicians, dancers, travelers and fans of the outdoors encouraged to apply! Extra points given for University of Utah football fans. MAY, just may, consider a fan of the other school if the candidate is exceptional in all other qualifications. Good conversationalist also a must. Nice eyes are an additional bonus. Excellent benefits package once the probationary period has been met.

I will be utilizing a more stringent application and interview process in an effort to avoid dismissive and unqualified applicants. Will consider a referral bonus for help in locating the ideal candidate.

The position is still open so if you, or anyone you know who fits the qualifications and job description, are on the job hunt, head my way. :)

(Hey...everyone needs a good laugh every now and then, right!) :)

The only thing on my mind is gratitude. While I would love to move past this point in my life, I know that I have been so extremely blessed beyond words and that my life is pretty darn good! I have learned some great lessons in the past few days from General Conference, the temple, and experiences. Here are a few:

Fears can be overcome and most often have no merit.
Greater appreciation for the Savior and His life of service
That I need humbling
I can not be so quick to assume or to judge
The Lord is in charge and I need to let Him be
You never know what people are dealing with or have been through
Family is so important
Everything testifies of the Savior, even our very lives
We are given everything we need to get through anything that will be thrown at us
Loving shouldn’t happen because of pity or charity. We need to learn to give our whole hearts in love for others because we genuinely care
Not everyone lives or thinks like I do (shocking, I know) :)

This is a sampling... there are more too personal to mention. I can not begin to express how grateful I am right now for all my blessings and mostly to the Savior for all that He is and does. I’ve loved this Easter week to spend extra time thinking about His final moments on this earth. He was teaching, loving and healing until the very end and there is so much to learn from pondering this sacred week. I am grateful that He has taken the time to teach me and share life changing insights, especially in the temple.

This month marks a year since I began as a temple worker at the Mt. Timpanogos Temple. I love it! These past few weeks, especially, my shifts have been incredibly spiritual for me and the Lord is truly instructing me. I am grateful for the chance to serve and connect to the patrons who visit the temple and I am grateful for their service. This is a great work!

This is what the temple looks like as I leave my shift.

New Adventures

2009-02-27T15:14:00.004-07:00

What a week I’ve had. At the beginning of this month I found a graduate program that finally excited me, so... in a whirlwind rush, I took the GRE and applied. Hopefully I’ll get in. Cross your fingers! Most of my time in the last few weeks has been studying for this ridiculous exam and finishing up my app. At the same time, I found out my car was going to cost as much to fix it to pass registration as it was worth so I set out on a job hunt. Lots of life changes all at once but exciting ones, including a few other possibles I won’t mention until they are definite. So...life got crazy but I’m happy. And yesterday I bought a new car! I LOVE IT! It’s a black Pontiac G6 hard-top convertible. I can’t wait for the sun to come out so I can put the top down (of course I woke up to snow this morning. Curses!)

Another fun adventure...I went to a cabin over Valentine’s Day with 100 other singles. It was a blast! We hung out, ate food, played games, went snowmobiling, snowshoeing, had whitewash wars, played lots of foosball, and danced the night away! Being the dance and foosball fanatic that I am, this was a great way to spend the weekend. Not to brag or anything :) but another girl and I beat two guys (self-proclaimed foosball greats) three games in a row. Champions!

What can I say...life is good! :D

Doesn't get much better than this :)

Isn't it a Beaut! It's fantastic :)

Feet

2009-02-10T13:06:00.002-07:00

Did you know...Your feet are bigger in the afternoon than they are during the rest of they day.

In my case, however, the size is never constant. To demonstrate, I was shoe shopping the other day and found a pair of shoes I loved at half price. What could be better then that, I ask you? Unfortunately, they only had the shoe in size 10 and size 8 1/2 whereas I generally wear a 9 or 9 1/2. I decided to try them on with the hope that they would magically work. What happened is nothing short of a phenomenon. My left foot has always been slightly bigger than my right but it is not often a huge issue. This particular instance, however, the size 10 shoe fit my left foot just fine (ok, it was a bit big) and the 8 1/2 fit my right foot! It was bizarre. Of course the salesman was not cool with me buying one of each but they did offer me a discount to buy both pairs. In the end, the discount would have given two pairs of shoes for $4 less then the original price of the shoe. Not too bad for two pairs. Too bad it only equated to one pair for me so I had to pass. Tragic indeed! :)

Another fun, useless fact: A Valentine's Day party in Victorian times would find young ladies writing their name on slips of paper. The young men would draw a slip and pin it to their sleeve, which is there the expression "Wearing your heart on your sleeve" comes from.

25 Things About Me

2009-02-02T13:16:00.002-07:00

This is going around Facebook but I thought I'd add it here. 25 Random things about me:

1. I have been bit by a dolphin.

2. I jumped off a ski lift while on a date. One of my MANY blonde and embarrassing moments.

3. I have never been stung by a bee.

4. I have been to the last remaining wonder of the original seven (the Pyramids) and have visited three of the seven new world wonders (Chichén Itzá, Colosseum, Petra).

5. I absolutely LOVE the moment when you climb into a newly made bed at the end of a long day and can finally snuggle up under the comforter and relax. On the topic of beds...mine is so tall that I have to jump into bed each night.

6. I have not very flexible- I can’t touch my toes which made dancing (something I LOVE) difficult. That's one reason I social (country, latin) dance now -requires no flexibility.

7. I always loved travel and geography so when I was younger I wanted to be an archeologist.

8. I’m a sun goddess. I live for sun on my face and do my best writing while sitting outside under the rays. I love a good sunset and will often call or texts friends and family members when there is a particularly good one to make sure they don't miss out.

9. During college I never worked, went to school or lived in one place for more than a year. I’ve always been very restless. I have been to ten different schools from elementary to college (party because we moved once and they kept building new schools every where I went).

10. I keep trying to move out of Utah but can’t seem to leave.

11. I’ve only dyed my hair once and it turned bright orange.

12. Ever since I had my wisdom teeth pulled, you can touch a certain spot on my chin and can feel it shoot through a nerve up to my upper cheek by my eye.

13. I have hitchhiked.

14. I have a weird thing about death. Often, mostly while driving, I will think about what would happen if I were to die at that moment. Then I think about how many people would come to my funeral or how messy my room is for people to have to go through all my stuff. Kind of morbid, I know.

15.I attended a prayer vigil in D.C. for 9/11 and a press conference at the Reagan National Airport shortly thereafter to discussed increased security measures they would have to put in place before its reopening.

16. I passed out at the SLC Olympics and was diagnosed with walking pneumonia.

17. My favorite ice cream is vanilla with brownie and caramel. Occasionally I throw in raspberries.

18. I start reading books but I rarely finish them. I was a book worm when I was younger. My favorites were the Babysitters Club and Mary Higgins Clark.

19. I have cared deeply but never been in love.

20. I am not a fabulous writer and don’t really love to do it, but it is my career and I am about to go back to school to get a Master's in writing.

21. Even though I don't love to write, writing a novel is on my bucket list. I woke up from a nap one day while I was home sick in 2004 and all of a sudden decided I wanted to write a book. It has stuck with me ever since.

22. I love the ocean. It replenishes my soul. I go through withdrawals if I don’t get to the ocean every few months. I really want to learn to surf.

23. I threw up while eating squash while I was little and am only now beginning to be able to tolerate it. I can’t eat pickles, and even hate the smell, because the acid stung my cut finger when I was little.

24. I don't drink soda unless there is absolutely nothing else to drink. I hate carbonation.

25. Other things on my bucket list include riding in a hot air balloon, doing a dive-aboard in the Great Barrier Reef, taking a photograph that is worthy of blowing up and framing in my house, painting a picture I can also hang in my house (even if its only good enough for a bathroom), attending an ethnic wedding.

Maybe this is part of my problem...

2009-01-21T11:51:00.001-07:00

The quite force of progress.

2009-01-20T16:07:00.003-07:00

This morning I joined millions of others around the world in welcoming in a new president. Although I am not an Obama supporter, I recognized the historic nature of this event and considered myself blessed to be a witness. I am currently reading The Secret Life of Bees which touches on a time in our past where segregation was an encumbrance to our nation. Add to it all the timeliness of Martin Luther King Day and one can’t help but ponder the magnitude of the event. I guess I always assumed I would be alive to see the first African-American President of the United States but it was not something I thought about often. It struck me when Obama mentioned that 60years ago his father would not have been able to enter some restaurants. I had forgotten how recent that time was. As President Obama stated, “This day we mark who we are and how far we’ve come.”
Other gems from the speech:
“We are keepers of this legacy.”
(We are recipients of a legacy established by years of fighting, toil, hurt and perseverance on all sides that have brought us to a place where our nation for the most part is strong and welcoming and a place where dreams are made. We are keepers of personal legacies as well, building on a familial past and entrusted with the duty to leave a legacy of good for the future.)

“Our patchwork heritage is our strength.”

“When we were tested we refused to let this journey end.”
(That has daily life implications and is a reminder to me to be strong, in all things.)

I appreciated President Bush and know that he did the best he could. He is a man of conviction with a good, honest heart. I was grateful for the opportunity I had on November 4th to exercise my right as a citizen and cast my ballot for that which I believed to be the best. Millions of others had that same magnificant right and now we will live with our choice and face the consequences, good or bad. I hope that the result will lean on the side of good and exceed my expectations. I am anxious to see what lies ahead for us all.

Tribute to MLK

2009-01-19T15:28:00.002-07:00

Fun pictures

2009-01-16T12:20:00.004-07:00

Here are a few cute pictures from my nephew's blessing day.

The Barton Clan

Time to Say Goodbye

2009-01-15T14:11:00.004-07:00

Eight years ago something very special happened to my family. We were able to experience a celestial member of the Barton clan. Ember Ilene Barton arrived to us stillborn on January 15, 2001. My mom was nearly full term so this was a shock to all of us. We didn’t really know how to react at first but were all deeply saddened. She wasn’t yet someone we could miss but she was someone whose absence we would always feel and someone who we would never had the joy of getting to know. It was months of anticipation lost in a moment. It was all that but so much more...and so much of it good.

The night my mom delivered her, we each had a chance to hold our dear Ember and share a special moment with her. The spirit was so strong in that hospital room. That was a feeling we were blessed to experience for a while to lift us through the difficult time. It was a bonding moment for our family and we know that she is very much a part of us.

Members of the church in our area kindly reached out and supported us at this time of tragedy. They donated money for the casket and were so generous in their giving that there was enough left over for a framed picture of Christ with a little girl.

They brought meals, and a hand of love to my mother. One neighbor, an interior decorator, designed a memorial table in Ember’s honor that displayed pictures, clothing, flowers and a locket. The spirit was always strong in our house at this time but most especially in the room with the table. People would comment on it the moment they walked in the house.

We held a small funeral in our home and then buried her in Alpine. We visit the gravesite often and remember the missing part of our family and the experiences we had with her. She taught us so very much and bonded us as a family.

I never understood before how much it would hurt to lose someone your never knew or to lose a baby. Even though I am not yet a mother, I can sympathize even a little bit now with parents who lose children, having felt the hurt and especially having watched my parents go through this.

My experience with Ember made the gospel so much more real to me. No longer was I just trying to be good to make it to the celestial kingdom. I now had a sister who was there and I had even greater reason to succeed to be with her. The experience made me examine my belief and testimony and, in all honesty, it shook me up quite a bit. I struggled for a long time to wrap my head around the questions this presented. There was a lot of doctrine about babies who die before the age of eight but very little is said about one who never took a breath. Yet I know she is a part of us and is real. I began to question the Plan of Salvation and our very existence and purpose in life. But after I wrestled through my own doubts and discovered answers, the Plan of Salvation became so very real to me- no longer just something drawn across the blackboard with circles and lines- and my testimony as a whole was strengthened.

I don’t have all the answers but I know there is a purpose for all things. I love Ember and am so grateful for her. Through we never knew her, she has had an incredible impact on our lives. Today would have been her eighth birthday. It is the day she does not need. In the church, eight means baptism but because of the Atonement of our Savior, she does not need this ordinance. She is already perfect through Him and I know that, though I am not yet at her stage and, unlike her, need to go through the experience of life, I, too, can be perfected through Him.

Happy Birthday, Ember!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-02T14:45:00.004-07:00

January is synonymous for resolutions and years in review. My personal resolutions are just that- personal. But here are a few highlights or firsts from 2008 in the year of Katie Barton:

Trained for and completed the Wasatch Back and continued running races
Jumped out of a plane at 13,000 ft
Learned to play Ultimate Frisbee and this weekend played ultimate in the snow
Discovered NPR
Hiked to Havasupi- first real backpacking trip
Went sailing for the first time- tipped the sail boat
Went on a cruise to the Caribbean and danced the week away
Learned to “jump” on a wake board
Spent a week in Lake Powell with dear friends
Went to San Diego- Padres game, USS Midway
Spend a few lovely fall days in Seattle
Saw Wicked
Went rock climbing for the first time
Watched the Utes beat BYU in an undefeated season
Additionally, watched Utah beat Alabama and take the Sugar Bowl! Go UTES!!!
Witnessed a demolition derby for the first time
Won a costume contest as King Kong’s captive
Shot an assault rifle and hand gun
Soaked in some natural hot springs
Went four-wheeling lots and discovered snow four-wheeling
Started working at the Mt Timpanogas Temple
Skied a black diamond run and jumped off a ski lift
Snowshoeing for the first time
Went to Moab and Dead Horse Point
Made so many new friends and met some wonderful people

This list is far from comprehensive. It simply includes the things I could think of while taking a break at work. I'll add pictures later. Happy New Year!

Gingerbread Houses Part II

2009-01-02T14:35:00.006-07:00

We did a siblings date at our place last Monday night and made gingerbread houses. Mine and Brian's was the (self-proclaimed) winner. :) We had a great time and ended the night with Rock Band and Pounce and another game that will remain unmentioned. ( I demand a rematch! I CAN NOT be beat at foosball! :D)

Prep time

The Master Piece

Check out the stained glass window

The girls

Cute Barton siblings

Ta-Da!

Christmas Time

2008-12-30T11:18:00.008-07:00

I am just a "bit" behind on the blog. Sorry! So, seeing as Christmas just passed, I figured that would be a good place to begin my catch-up.

Christmas was glorious and memorable as always. I can thank Mother Nature for her cooperation this year in allowing me to finally make it to the Midway Creche exhibit. I was able to view and appreciate 600 nativity scenes from around the world. Speaking of nativity scenes, my parents brought me a new one from Hawaii to add to my collection- bringing the grand total to 16 creches in my home. I love them!

Other memorable moments this Christmas season:
Singing in church
Snowshoeing through Big Cottonwood Canyon
New friends
Family time- always the best!
Caroling with 3,000 other people at the Energy Solutions Arena
New snow tires that save my life over and over again
Completely decadent chocolate party
Braving it up to give blood for the first time
Burial of a Christmas Tree
Hilarious white elephant party
Mistletoe kiss so desired it caused a man to get out of his wheel chair
Successful enrichment, work and friend parties...done and done :)
Savior of the World and Temple Square
Sledding with the family
Being snowed in at Christmas so extra time was spent with the family
War Tubing behind the four-wheeler
Gingerbread houses
Singing around the piano and playing Christmas music
Learning and growing moments that will carry me into the new year

Overall it was a wonderful month. I'll add more pictures as I get them.

Thanksgiving with mom and sis

Our dead Christmas Tree

Our replacement "Charlie Brown" tree

The head/shaving lesson was a hot item at the White Elephant party

I was attacked, I swear!

Christmas Eve Sledding Extravaganza on Cemetery Hill

My new fondue pot. Yum!

The finished projects

2008-11-13T12:08:00.001-07:00

November 4

2008-11-06T14:37:00.004-07:00

November 4 was a big day. It brought a chance to exercise my right to vote, a change of direction for our country, a snowstorm , and new $10 jeans :). But most exciting of all, it was an anniversary. I got a text from my dad that reminded me of a special Novermber 4th thirty years ago. Granted I was not alive at the time, but it was a day that made my life possible. Tuesday was the 30th anniversary of my parent's first date! The day that changed the course of history for the Barton family :) It was Homecoming at Snow College and my dad was three hours late picking up his date (my mom) because he couldn't get his pheasant (which he had shot himself) to cook. When he did finally pick her up, he had written her a song that included in the lyrics the famous date of November 4th. Now they would NEVER forget. :) I'm so grateful to my parents. They are incredible examples of love and strength in character and in their relationship with each other. And I'm grateful for their unselfishness and love for family that led them to raise seven kids. I have the most wonderful family. Man, I am blessed!!

Happy Halloween!!

2008-10-31T13:37:00.003-06:00

Halloween is always a blast. Sunday we did a roommate date pumpkin carving adventure. We carved the best one (I'm not biased) with a spider and web. Today at work we had a party where we jammed on Rock Band, made carmel apples and had a costume contest. Winners haven't been announced yet. I'll keep you posted.

I went as King Kong's Captive. HELP!!!

All in a day's work

2008-10-31T13:30:00.002-06:00

Last weekend we had an event up in Park City. Events of this kind involve all kinds of interesting things and often mix work and play. This particular event had me blowing up extra large beach balls, roasting smores on an indoor hotel fire, singing karaoke and dancing the night away (we worked plenty too, don't worry :) )

Seattle!

2008-10-22T15:58:00.004-06:00

I just spent a fun weekend in Seattle for my cousin Megan's wedding. I have a lot I want to write about it but time does not yet allow; I will expound shortly. In the interim, be satisfied with pictures. :)

Rally On!

2008-10-16T11:57:00.003-06:00

What good is work if there is no play? :) Don't we look stylin'! :)

Scare-oling

2008-10-16T11:48:00.004-06:00

For Relief Society Enrichment we went Scare-oling. It was a blast! And the weather was the best I've ever had for caroling as there was no snow on the ground :) We went door-to-door singing Halloween songs and delivering goodies. What a Treat! No tricks involved :)

This is the note we left with the candy:

Why do ghosts have so much trouble dating?
Women can see right through them.

Why aren't there any famous skeletons?
They're a bunch of no bodies.

How do monsters tell their future?
They read their horror-scope.

Sample of the songs we sang:

Shivery Yells
(to the tune of SILVER BELLS)

We're on sidewalks, we're on porches ,
Dressed in costumes to scare.
Through the city we're ringing the doorbells
Trick or treating, candy eating,
Gooey stuff in our hair
But the most fun is shrieking out loud:
Shivery yells, Shivery yells
That's the Halloween nitty-gritty
Moan and groan, leaves us alone
Halloween's just one night a year.

Pumpkin Bells
(to the tune of JINGLE BELLS)

Dashing through the streets
In our costumes bright and gay
To each house we go
Laughing all the way
Halloween is here,
Making spirits bright
What fun it is to trick-or-treat
And sing pumpkin carols tonight!
Oh Pumpkin bells, Pumpkin bells
Ringing loud and clear
Oh what fun great pumpkin brings
When Halloween is here.

2008-10-15T09:38:00.000-06:00

2008-10-13T11:55:00.000-06:00

2008-10-09T15:12:00.001-06:00

Fun Site:

http://www.freerice.com/index.php

Night up the canyon

2008-10-09T13:06:00.004-06:00

I love driving up the canyon, especially in the fall. Here are some pictures from my Tuesday evening visit with nature.

2008-10-07T09:56:00.000-06:00

General Conference

2008-10-06T19:43:00.004-06:00

This past weekend was simply wonderful! What a blessing it is to be able to listen to the chosen leaders of our Lord and receive insights, words of wisdom and inspiration from the apostles and from the spirit. I went into this Conference session hungry and ready to learn and was touched so many times by messages that penetrated my heart. The Lord knew what I was in need of and my mind and heart were open.

I had intended to include in this post some of the gems from the weekend, but as I read over my notes, I remembered how deeply personal they were. What resonated in my soul would not mean the same to anyone else- that being one of the joys of the gospel. But I can say this...I left with so much hope and joy and resolve to do better. I am filled with gratitude for the messages that were given and for the reminder that the Lord knows me and loves me.

"You don't know everything but you know enough." ~Anderson

"Come What May, and Love it!" ~ Wirthlin

"Fear not, little flock. God will stand with open arms to receive."

2008-10-06T19:42:00.000-06:00

HowManyOfMe.com

There are
41
people with my name in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

Go UTES!!! Hello Dallin!!!

2008-10-03T11:20:00.006-06:00

Last night I went to the Utah vs. Oregon game with my friends Rich and Jason. It was one of the best games I've been to in my life!! We played alright for the first half but pretty much killed things in the second. The majority of the second half we were down 21-20. That would have been a pretty heart-breaking loss- One point! But then they spared us that fate by scoring again. :( With two minutes left and a quarterback that had thrown away most of the game, the Utes pulled a miracle and scored 11 points, the last being a field goal with 1 second left. It was INCREDIBLE!!!! I've never been to a game like that. So much energy and excitement. I loved it! GO UTES!!!

Last week was amazing as well. I did a lot of personal thinking and growing, had some fun dates, experienced the Melting Pot for the first time, ended the summer season with a good wake boarding run, played some good glow-in-the-dark ultimate frisbee, got a new assignment as a guide for first-time sisters at the temple, went to the Utah game against Weber State, and spent time with family and friends- both old and new.

Best of all...I got a new nephew!!! His name is Dallin and he looks just like his older brother Owen. He is the second grandkid/nephew and we think he is adorable! You can judge for yourself :)

Delight in Differences

2008-09-20T14:54:00.001-06:00

Too often I surround myself with people who are similar to me in thought and action and too often assume people think and see just as I do. Yet we are so different and that makes life wonderful. We have so much we can learn from each other. In every interaction, in every conversation, we have an opportunity to delight in our differences and learn from each other.

Not too long ago I went out with a friend who, though he didn’t realize it, taught me so much. Through our simple conversation he changed me. It opened my eyes to a new way of thinking, caused introspection, and personal evaluation and change, and helped me through a personal turning point that soon followed.

We all have so much we can share and learn from each other. Daily and simple interactions can yield so many lessons. I have been touched in countless ways by so many people. I wish I could let each one know how they have affected me but it would be impossible to even begin. I wish I were better about expressing gratitude in the moment and help others understand what they have done for me, but too often the moment passes on, unacknowledged. Other times, a simple "Thank you" is all I can muster, though my heart leaps with appreciation that I wish could be sensed in its full sincerity. So, thank you to each of you that has in some way touched my life, and taught me, without you even realizing.

I recently listened to a podcast entitled “Our Vulnerability is our Strength” in which a young adult learned a great lesson through his work. He had been lost and had chosen not to follow the traditional path of college and career. He found himself caring for two physically handicapped men. It was a tiring job that involved long hours and tedious work but he loved it because of what it taught him. It showed him the lesson that we need to rely on each other. Too often we define success as becoming solely independent and capable of handling all things on our own. That is a fallacy. We grow and become better and more “successful” through relying on one another. Just as these men had to turn to him to function each day, so should we reach toward each other to build and strengthen ourselves. We must become interdependent. We must learn from each other and also teach each other. You can read his essay at http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=91244099

Fun Stuff

2008-09-19T17:56:00.005-06:00

This has been a crazy week so I haven't had time to blog like I planned. However, I realize that my last post is now outdated, so I decided to put up a few pictures to hold over "all' my readers until my life calms down again. Enjoy!

Harry Potter

My favorite place in the world...the ocean

Rachelle and I at Wicked in LA
San Diego temple with my dad

The view from our hotel
Our old Middle School in San Diego

Owls game with Megan and Jodi
Weekly ultimate frisbee game in Provo
More frisbee!
Me and cute nephew!
Thrify's ice cream in San Diego. The best in the world!

Remember

2008-09-11T14:59:00.003-06:00

It has been seven years and how quickly it passed. Everyone has a story and remembers where they were on that fateful Tuesday morning. I have my own personal memories that, seven years later, are still not written down. This is for me and my future family, so that we do not forget.

The fall of 2001 found me living a dream. I had visited Washington D.C. as a senior in high school and it had changed me. I fell in love with the city- it called to me- and I knew that one day I would live there. That “one day” came while I was a junior at the University of Utah when I was offered an internship with a media production company called Global Village Communications in Alexandria, VA. It was a season in my life that still affects me to this day. My eyes were opened to a new world and a new me, and I was happy.

My commute to work each morning involved taking the metro and then walking about a half a mile to the office. At one point in the trek, I went up a hill, turned a corner and was welcomed by the sight of the Capital and Washington Monument. The morning of September 11, I distinctly remember turning the corner to that incredible view and feeling an intense feeling that something was wrong. I paused and said a prayer that everything would be ok with my family. Then I entered the office and began my normal day. We were interviewing a high school tennis player for a video and he had just arrived. Not too long after, a co-worker called, frantic, and started describing an airplane and towers and I didn’t know what else. I couldn’t make sense of what she was saying so she finally said “just turn on the t.v.” We did and immediately understood. We watched in awe with the rest of the world as the smoke swelled from the buildings. Soon they started announcing that the Pentagon had been hit. Sure enough, we opened the blinds on the second floor of our office to a screen of billowing thick, black smoke. Our office was about 2 miles from the Pentagon- close enough that a few hours later we heard and felt an after explosion (or something, we’re not sure what) shake our building and draw all the neighboring workers into the street in curiosity. We stood in the road together, staring into the black cloud, in shock and disbelief at what was occurring.

At word that the Pentagon was hit, our camera crew took off to get some footage, leaving me alone in the office with an anxious tennis player whose parents were both in the White House at the time. He had no way of reaching them or learning of their condition. At the time, rumor was spreading that another plane was headed toward the Capital so we were all on pins and needles. I emailed my dad for a bit and let him know I was fine. (Later that night I received many phone calls from frantic people back in Utah wanting to make sure I was alive. I didn’t realize how panicked they must have been. I knew that the damage was isolated and that I was a safe distance away but all they knew was that I was in a target city).

We spent the rest of the day trying to reach his parents and watching the t.v. along with the rest of the world. By that time, the towers had collapsed, but we continued to tune in for hopes of more information or to find out that this was all just a dream- or nightmare.

I didn’t realize the grandeur of it all until my roommate called. She had been alone in her office on Capital Hill and was surprised by a soldier knocking at her door. They evacuated the entire capital and she was forced onto the metro, then onto a bus around the pentagon, then back onto the metro, arriving home hours later. She said that Salt Lake was calling to make sure we were all accounted for and she informed me that I was the only one of the 30+ interns still at work. That’s when it hit me how bad this really was.

I went home and spent some time with my boyfriend at the time and on the phone with friends and family from back home as we tried to grasp it all and predict the future implications of the event.

The next day the world was changed. I remember stepping into the metro Wednesday morning to a thick feeling of sorrow. It was nearly tangible- and silent. For a long time the Pentagon stop was closed but after a while it was reopened to individuals with I.D. only. You knew that everyone who got on or off at the stop had been there at the time of the attack.

The night, September 12, I went to a prayer/candlelight vigil at the Capital. All the Senators held a memorial inside while hundreds of us honored outside at the Reflecting Pool. We lit candles and sang patriotic songs. A few of the firemen who had battled the blaze at the Pentagon were there and they had, draped over their fire truck, a flag that had flown at the Pentagon at the time of the attack. It was a humbling experience to be there and participate in that. I was grateful to be close and to be able to take part with hundreds of other strangers as we connected in feelings of sorrow, hope, patriotism and gratitude.
I attended another such prayer vigil at the Lincoln Memorial the following Friday night.

That Friday brought with it a small miracle. It was a day designated by President Bush to commemorate the victims. At noon he asked that the nation pause in a moment of silence. The day had been a gloomy one and started out with rain. Our film crew had gone to the Pentagon to get footage but had forgotten some pieces of equipment. Two co-workers and I headed out to bring the materials to them. At the appointed 12 o’clock, we pulled over to the side of the road to observe the moment of silence. Our car was facing the direction of the Pentagon but we could not see the actual building from where we were. We looked up into the sky toward where the Pentagon was and saw the most incredible thing. The clouds and grey sky parted and the sun shone brightly through- just in that one spot. It was truly amazing. My co-worker called a radio station to let them know, through her tears, what we had just witnessed. It was such a remarkable moment of hope.

There were so many other instances of hope and goodness that came from the experience, despite all the horror. Growing up, I had often reflected on how the characters in the Book of Mormon were able to recognize the hand of the Lord in disasters and trials and they were consequently humbled and turned to the Lord. In all my life I had not seen that happened and wondered why disasters in our day did not have the same affect. This one did. For the first time I witnessed that very phenomenon as people turned to God and were suddenly not afraid to shamelessly declare their love for, and reliance on, Him.

I was grateful for the time that I had in D.C. We visited NYC 11 days later and witnessed for ourselves Ground Zero and the devastating effects the attacks had had there. We saw the buildings covered in ash and visited the church that housed so many people during the frightening first few days. But I also saw the resiliency of the cities and the people there. I attended a press conference in the Washington National Airport as they addressed new security measures. I witnessed the reopening of the airport weeks later and panicked a bit as it looked like the planes were again flying right into the ground as the airport is in the middle of the city. D.C. continued to experience difficulties- a tornado, Anthrax scare, and plenty of uncertainty- but it was an exciting place to be at the same time. It was life changing for me to participate in a great change in our nation and to be so close to all that was occurring.

CES Fireside

2008-09-10T11:03:00.001-06:00

CES Fireside

This is one of my most favorite talks. It is called Sense of the Sacred and was given by our newest apostle Elder D. Todd Christofferson in November, 2004.

Listen to it or read it. I think you will enjoy it.

More Fun! Labor Day Weekend

2008-09-04T09:36:00.006-06:00

I realize that my blog is still a bit primeval (one of these days I will take the time to learn how to make it more aesthetically pleasing) and that reading about my current adventures is not only arguably dull, it is not really worthwhile reading. However, for myself, I appreciate having a medium to document my activities and remember an extraordinary summer enjoyed.

Once the pace of my life begins to change, which I hope is soon, I will adjust the content to be more worthwhile for the reader. Perhaps a re-focus of this “personal” journal to entries of greater substance and meaning will also help me re-focus my life to a life of greater significance.

Until then, however, here are some more adventures in the life of Katie.

Family Time

Me with my mom and sister Natalie

Siera and I

Big brother Jesse and cutest nephew Owen

Game night at our place. Here we are playing "Electricity"

An attempt at "Electricity" on the stairs

Four Wheeling at the sand dunes of the Little Sahara

Jared and I

Jill, Steve and Dorian

Jenny and I

Playing lazy in the shade

Trying to decide if I want to wake up

Off I go!

Jared and I

More Boating!

Justin

Captain Levi

Jason and Erica

Great Week

2008-08-26T16:11:00.000-06:00

This past week was a fabulous one. I started the week off shooting a bunch of guns. What could be better than that? Some friends invited me shooting, so we headed out just past Utah Lake and took up arms. Most of the time my aim was lacking, especially with the hand gun, but every once in a while I hit something. My best was 50% target hit. Then I was handed an assault rifle. Wow, that thing was cool! And it had great accuracy, which meant that so did I :) After we shot around for a while, we decided to pull out the camera. Modeling with the guns was just as fun as actually shooting them :)

While gazing out at Utah Lake during our shoot off, we decided we needed to get out on it. So Tuesday we hit the water and went boating. The water was pretty choppy so I wasn't too happy about my wake boarding performance, but I was glad to get out and try. I absolutely LOVE being on the water, if nothing else just riding on the boat. There are few things in this life that are better than that. The company was great, the evening was beautiful and the water was warm-ish :) Thanks Captain Steve for taking us out!

The week continued to rock! Wednesday I had the chance to go to Education Week at BYU. I love Ed Week. It's one of my favorite things each year- hundreds of classes on so many topics with incredible teachers. I was only able to attend Wed and Fri nights this year so I made the most of my limited time and soaked it all in. Some of my favorite classes were on prayer, symbolism in the scriptures, and following Christ in member missionary work. I learned so much and it has really changed my way of thinking about things, especially when it comes to scripture study. There are just so many hidden treasures in the Bible and Book of Mormon. I love it!

Thursday is temple day. I LOVE Thursdays. Not only did I get to spend some wonderful time there enjoying the peace and spirit, I was able to see many old friends- even some from as far back as my days in San Diego. I love what a small world this is.

Friday was back to Education Week. I had a great time reconnecting with my old EFY friend, Bryan, and enjoyed some great classes.

Saturday was a whirlwind day. It began bright and early with a breakfast/service project where I got to know the awesome members of my ward. I went home and was finally able to work on my yard. Then it was off to a pool party with some great girls and then boating again. Yeah! I did better on the board this time but I still struggle getting out of the left wake. I get to try again tomorrow so we'll see how it goes. I made a sweet new friend and reacquainted with an old one. I quickly changed and headed over to a wedding reception for a co-worker where they served cotton candy and smoothies to the attendees waiting in line and then had Cold Stone for dessert. It was great! The night ended with a fun date of batting cages and miniature golf which included lightening "war" rounds and a hole-in-one finish!

Life is GRAND!!!

Accidently Drugged...

2008-05-20T12:24:00.000-06:00

So, funny story...
Sunday night I went to a potluck with some friends for local singles from my church. I had had a really long weekend and had thus acquired a pretty bad headache. I rarely take medication but I wanted to feel up for socializing. So, I reached into my cupboard and took the last of the pills from the Tylenol Extra Strength bottle. I didn't really pay attention to the fact the pill was not very Tylenol- esk.

Thankfully my friend decided last minute he didn't want anymore sunburn from my convertible so he wanted to drive. About halfway there, I started to notice that I was seeing double. I couldn't really see straight at all but my mind was all fuzzy so I didn't fully realize that anything was happening at all. My muscles were super heavy and I just couldn't focus on anything.

When we got to the party, I couldn't walk straight so I made my friends carry my food. I had to immediately sit down and felt like I was swimming. It was not cool. Some guy came over and talked to me for about a half hour and to be honest I don't remember much of what he said. I was fine to stare and look like I was listening but anytime I tried to move it took so much effort and I was slurring my speech. Good thing he did most of the talking. It was a pretty interesting night. I'm sure I was entertaining for some. It took me a while but I finally was able to clear my head enough to try to figure out what happened. In the end, I've concluded that I accidentally took an Ambien, the very pill that I usually cut in half to do that trick of knocking me out. I haven't had to take any meds for a while so I didn't even notice when I swallowed it down. Oops!!

To make it worse, this is the third time in a year I have been drugged like that on sleeping meds- once before on my way home from Israel I took one to help me sleep on the flight. It worked for an hour then I was awake but still heavily medicated. The other time I was sleepless on a cruise so I took two Benedryl to help me take a nap. Stupid, I know. Dinner that evening was difficult as felt so out of control and like I was swimming. Try walking down a rocking ship's hallway while drugged. Not so easy.

Lesson learned...hide the meds from Katie!!

Nothing to read...SORRY!!

2008-05-09T14:47:00.000-06:00

I want to apologize to anyone who has happened upon my blog. The link has not yet been shared, for good reason, so there should not be many of you. I promise that one day I will actually take the time to write something worth reading and regularly contribute to this site. Until then...just navigate away as there is really nothing here. Have patience and maybe check back one day for "something cool!" :)

Hallelujah

2008-04-30T17:00:00.001-06:00

Great news on the work front...

I've been working on writing content for a new distributor kit that we are preparing to distribute. There have been countless hours and edits but I was pretty happy with it. Then came the tricky part- passing it on to the executives. With so many varying opinions, this is a scary prospect. I expected tons of comments and lots of rewriting ahead. Well, today I got an email back from the person I just KNEW would shred it. And...three simple, tiny comments that were changed de una vez! I was floored and ecstatic! What a relief. All those hours paid off. YEAH!!!!

2008-04-14T09:17:00.001-06:00

Four wheeling at the Little Sahara

It was a blast!

Here we go!

2008-02-05T15:14:00.001-07:00

I've been wanting to blog for a long time now and just never got around to it. So...here goes nothing! I'm so excited :)

So...my life...

I work for a company called GoYin. I love it! I started here about a year and a half ago. If you know me, you know that staying with one company for that long is quite the feat for me. In general, I am pretty restless and can't stay in one place or with one company for too long.
Ok...pause...I have to get back to work now. I will continue this at a later time.