Real Love

I've watched the movie Marley & Me a total of one time. I saw it in the movie theater shortly after it came out three years ago. I'd read the book so I knew exactly how the story would end. 


But, that didn't matter one. single. bit. I sat in a movie theater and bawled my eyes out (the really ugly kind of cry, ya know?) then went home to hug my own dog a little tighter. I enjoyed the movie. I thought it was funny and cute and entertaining, but there was absolutley now way I could watch it again. 


Until this past weekend of course. I saw it on TV a while back so I recorded it. Michael and I were being lazy Saturday night and I suggested we watch. It was so much fun...until the end. It was no different than the first time. I was a mess. Even Michael was squeezing the dogs a little more than usual afterward. 


I don't care one bit that it's just a movie, albeit a true story. Anyone who owns and loves dogs knows that desperate, aching feeling of having to say goodbye. It's heart wrenching. And do you know why? The last quote of the movie really sums it up for me. 


"A dog has no use for fancy cars, big homes, or designer clothes. A waterlogged stick will do just fine. A dog doesn't care if your rich or poor, clever or dull, smart or dumb. Give him your heart and he'll give you his. How many people can you say that about? How many people can make you feel rare and pure and special? How many people can make you feel extraordinary?"


Wow. That's so true. I often meet people who don't understand this connection or value it in any way. But, for me, it's undeniable and important and powerful. My dogs are my best buds and no matter how badly I behave or how long I leave them alone, they are ALWAYS my number one fans. And for that, I'm extremely grateful. 


If a little of my dogs' personalities could rub off on me I know I'd be a better person. It's all about the simple joys with them. They never stay upset for long, they practive forgiveness every day, and they never get bogged down with the meaningless problems that seem to be so abundant in our world.


So, even though I was a sobbing mess, I'm glad I watched Marley & Me for the second time ever. Oh, and I love my dogs to the moon and back. 

Be happy!

I love this song. It makes me smile.

10 Miles

On Sunday, I'm running a 10-mile race.

I have my husband, the runner, to thank for this. Every time he runs in a long race, he finishes and I say something like, "Good job babe! I'm going to have to do that sometime. It looks fun." That was really just a conversation starter but, turns out, Michael took it to heart.

Us right after Michael's first marathon. I ran a 10k. 

He surprised me before my birthday by giving me an early gift, which was registration in the Garden of the Gods 10-miler.

I had six weeks to train. So, here I am, days away from the race and I'm a tad nervous. See, training for six weeks to run the longest distance you ever have has proved to be a little difficult.

I ran 8.75 miles last weekend so I'm hoping for the best come Sunday. Finishing is definitely my goal this time around. Fingers crossed!

This is Michael at last year's Garden of the Gods run. 

San Antonio Rose

We went on a little mini-vacation to San Antonio and Austin...well, we went a month and a half ago but who's counting? Anyway, it was such a great trip and we loved every minute of it.

The weather was nice and the food was delicious. We saw friends, saw the sights, and made the most of our time there for sure.

Thanks, Texas, for an awesome weekend.

Happy Mother's Day

God could not be everywhere and therefore he made mothers.  ~Jewish Proverb

I couldn't ask for a better mom. She's everything you could hope for and more.

And my best buddy...we've been together for so many important moments in our lives and then I got the opportunity to see her become a mommy. It makes my soul smile. 

Love you both and all the other amazing women in my life. Happy Mother's Day!

Birthday Boy

Michael's birthday was yesterday. We've had an amazing weekend, and he deserved it.

Happy birthday to...

my ski teacher...

my running buddy...

my hiking partner...

my fellow sports fanatic...

my very best friend...

xoxo

Mandatory Hiatus

Well, my computer crashed. My lovely little Macbook, Leonard, passed away after five great years.

*moment of silence*

It's always better for these types of things to be done on your own terms. You know, budgeting to buy a new computer instead of being forced to? Oh well though.

I plan to share photos and stories from our lovely mini-vacation and our last ski weekend of the year very soon though so stay tuned...

Weekend Recap

Our weekend was lovely. We enjoyed beautiful spring weather, which isn't always the case this time of year in CO.

Some of our fun included...

• Yummy mexican dinner and margaritas with friends
• Biking (me) and running (Michael) in pretty Garden of the Gods
• Trip to Costco (which means samples for me, woohoo!)
• Nap
• Dinner made by the hubs
• Red Box movie (The Fighter)
• Church
• Errands and etc.

All in all it was a great couple of days, just too short as always. But this Thursday evening we're headed to San Antonio and Austin for a long weekend and a much needed break. I can't wait for the warm weather, good food, quality time and rest!

ABC's of Me

I stole this from The Glamorous Life of a Housewife and thought it looked fun.

A. Age: 25

B. Bed size: Queen - no room for a king but I sure wish there was!

C. Chore you dislike: This is tough. I don't love chores period. It would probably have to be laundry. I don't mind doing it but folding/putting away is never fun.

D. Dogs: Of course! Cheyenne Michelle (5) and Paisley Ann (3)

E. Essential start to your day: Coffee

F. Favorite color: Green

G. Gold or silver: Love silver but I really like gold these days

H. Height: 5'6" 1/2 - That .5 is important to me. In high school volleyball I was listed as 5'8" and I wish that was true. Last time I had a physical, I may of stood on my tippie toes just a little because I was 5'7" -- maybe I'm growing!

I. Instruments you play(ed): Clarinet, circuit 6th-8th grade

J. Job title: Development and Communications Director - love my job!

K. Kids: Yes, see letter D

L. Live: Colorado

M. Mom’s name: Loy - poor thing gets called Lori and Joy but never Loy

N. Nicknames: Nik, Nik-Nak, Nickalodeon (don't love that one)

O. Overnight hospital stays: When I was a baby I was pretty dang sick but other than that, nope.

P. Pet peeves: Smacking, gulping when you drink, bad manners (i.e. not using please, thank you, smiling, etc.), people that treat me differently in a work environment because they think I'm young

Q. Quote from a movie: Kellie Frost: I don't like bull riders...they're little men with big egos. Besides, he's got one of them skinny butts like the rest of em'. Kelly's Mom: Honey, I judge a man more by the size of his heart then his rear... it's likely to do you more good.

S. Siblings: Big brother, Kyle

T. Time you wake up: 6:30, with approximately two snooze buttons after

U. Underwear: I am pro underwear.

V. Vegetables you don’t like: I'm not a huge fan of kidney beans - they're a vegetable, right?

W. What makes you run late: Me, doing too much at the last minute

X. X-rays you’ve had: Teeth, hand, chest

Y. Yummy food you make: Man, I am the worst cook. My husband makes yummy food though.

Z. Zoo animal favorites: Giraffes

Prayers for Japan

No one reads this blog. It's more of an online journal for me. That being said, I'm still doing this post because I think it's important.

I believe in what this organization does, trust them and have a special in my heart for the work they do. So, if you're looking for a way to help the people of Japan, I highly suggest contributing to Habitat for Humanity.

Donate to Help Pacific Earthquake and Tsunami Victims


A deadly 9.0-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Japan on Friday, March 11. The resulting aftershocks and tsunami destroyed homes, vehicles and entire towns. Thousands of people were killed and thousands are still missing.

Habitat for Humanity is assessing the damage caused by the earthquake and tsunami in Japan and will work with government authorities and other organizations to determine how we can help. In the short-term, Habitat for Humanity’s response will include mobilizing volunteers in Japan to work with other organizations in the initial clean-up and relief operation.

To respond effectively, we need your help. Please make a donation to help Habitat serve families affected by this disaster.

Click here to donate.

Green, Green & More Green

It is lovely here today - warm and sunny and perfect patio weather. I wish I could spend it outside!

So, I very unintentionally wore green on Tuesday and Wednesday. Oops! I totally forgot St. Patty's was today and realized I had to get in the spirit and wear it again today. Apparently I've been in the mood all week.

I didn't let my over abundance of Irsishness detur me though and for day three I'm green again. Maybe I should take a serious break from my favorite color after today because it is getting a tad weird.

Oh well! Here's to a day full of fun Irish festivities - enjoy!

Oh Lent

Well, I've been MIA for approximately one month, so maybe that's a good illustration of how busy I am right now. Between school and work and a hubs and the pups, there isn't much down time.

In the midst of all the craziness I decided to give up a couple of things for lent this year. It isn't part of my faith and not something I usually participate in, but I definitely appreciate the idea of sacrifice and think we could all do a little more of that.

I chose to give up soda and red meat this year. They're not super meaningful, but if you know me then you know giving up pop is a tall order. I love me some caffeine, and working all day then going to school almost demands it. That being said, I don't like feeling "addicted" so I think this is a great step.

I convinced Michael to participate as well and he decided to give up red meat and fast food. Since he was doing it I thought red meat seemed reasonable to add to my list.

So, I've faithfully stuck to plan and been sans soda and red meat for one week. I'm not going to lie and say it's been easy. I want a cheeseburger and a coke pretty badly right now. But I'm not giving in and will not partake in either until April 23.

Whew! Even though they're a tad superficial I feel proud to be taking control a little bit. And I'm also committing to spend more time in prayer and really prepare my spirit for Easter's true meaning.

Finally Friday

It's Friday and I am welcoming it with open arms. It's been a busy, busy week, my hubs has been out of town, and I am ready for some fun.

On the agenda is...

• Going out to eat tonight with good friends at a restaurant we've never been to
• Leaving tomorrow morning for the mountains to do some skiing and playing in the snow
• Watching funny Thursday TV shows that have been DVRd
• Staying the night in a cute little mountain town
• Cuddling with my best friends - Michael and the pups
• Eating too much
• Getting caught up on school work (not as much fun as necessity)

So, here's to a weekend full of good times, some sleep and lots of love!

Better Late Than Never

Since school controls my life, I'm a little late on my Valentine's Day post. But because the day holds such a special place in my heart, I figured better late than never.

Two years ago, my sweet boyfriend at the time planned a surprise getaway weekend, complete with my parents, tons of fun, and the biggest surprise of my life.

This was taken pre-Valentine's Day dinner. It had been the best weekend, and I definitely wasn't expecting any big moments.

But, the boyfriend became the fiance that night, and our lives changed forever. I adore him more now than I did then, and I can't believe how far we've come since that perfect day.

Michael is everything I've ever wanted in a soul mate and so much more. He makes me laugh, takes care of my every need and continues to surprise me with his drive and determintation.

Thanks for your continuous support, love and encouragement, babe. You brighten my days and make me a better person.

I'm so glad you stalked me in the Thompson Building and didn't give up when you got shot down. :) I wouldn't trade our story for anything.

I love ya to the moon and back.

Let's Change the World

Little of This & That

Randomness...

1. I'm back in school for the semester, and it's tough to get in a groove. Time management has never seemed so overwhelming to me before.

2. Part of the reason #1 is so tricky is because I recently got a promotion at work, which is so exciting, but while we're in the process of hiring someone new I'm doing both jobs. I'm just trying hard not to let things slip through the cracks!

3. My dogs are hilarious. They are so much fun, and when Michael's out of town I talk to them a lot. It's definitely a little strange but they're my buddies and the best company.

4. Speaking of travel, Michael has been training a new employee in Ohio so he's been gone for a few weeks in a row. He usually stays home one full week a month and I've realized how much I need that week. I miss my best friend!

5. I'm completely, ridiculously addicted to caffeine. I've always been a fan, but since I started grad school while working full time, the amount of coffee and pop I consume every day has reached a crazy level. But, it makes me feel better and keeps me awake so I have no intention to give it up anytime soon. Although, I may need a serious cleanse a couple times a year.

6. I really, really want to see the movie 127 Hours. It was only in theaters for a couple of months here and I missed it. I need it to come out on video asap.

7. I've been craving chinese food or sushi every day for like a month. Every time I think about being hungry that's what I want. Man, I want some right now.

8. I'm ashamed to admit it, but I'm watching The Bachelor this season. I gave it up for a while and didn't miss it. But I accidentally watched the first episode and now I'm sucked in again. Oh well, a little trashy TV never hurt anyone too badly.

9. Michael and I have been skiing a lot this year, and I finally feel like I'm getting a little better. I'm still nowhere near as good as my love or half the people on the mountain, but I really like it and am happy to see a little improvement.

10. I cannot believe January is almost over. I have no idea where the time has gone! And February is short, so it'll basically be March before we know it.

Super Teeth

I have a huge minor obsession with teeth. It's the first thing I notice about people, and I appreciate good dental hygiene very much.

I worked hard for my pearly whites -- think FIVE years of braces. So, I try and take great care of them now, i.e. brushing twice a day, flossing, mouthwashing...you know the drill.

Well, the last couple of times I've been to the dentist she recommended getting a Sonicare toothbrush. She explained their awesomeness and suggested it would be a good idea, especially because of my love for coffee and wine.

I smiled and nodded but really thought no thanks. I mean who needs a ridiculously expensive toothbrush and how much better could it actually be?

This is the product description of my new love on Amazon...The Sonicare Essence series rechargable power toothbrush removes 80% of coffee, tea, and tobacco stains. Only Sonicare combines 31,000 brush strokes per minute and extra-wide sweeping motion to create dynamic fluid cleaning action. Sonicare improves gum health by reversing gingivitis and shrinking periodontal pockets. Whiter teeth and healthier gums in 28 days guaranteed.

Michael and I were in Costco last weekend, and they had a Sonicare two pack on sale. Michael's had one of these babies before so he was surprisingly (he's cheap) interested in getting them. So, I thought, whatever, I'll give it a whirl.

I did, and it has changed my life. OK, that may be a tad dramatic, but seriously it's amazing. The first time I used it, it tickled so bad I thought I may have to return the dang thing. I am very ticklish. BUT, I stuck with it and now I couldn't be happier. To say that it cleans my teeth better than a regular ole toothbrush is a huge understatement. It feels like I've gotten my teeth cleaned at the dentist every time I use it.

So, if you are passionate about lovely teeth or if you've been considering taking the leap, I highly recommend it. You won't regret your decision.

Beauty

This is Colorado. Wow, I'm blessed. This helps remind me how small we and any problems we think have actually are -- and it makes me smile.

Adopt the pace of nature: her secret is patience.  ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

2010 Recap

As we dive into 2011, it's fun to look back at 2010 and see what we did. It was a really great year for us. I'll share some pictures that highlight the journey.

January: We took a weekend trip to Wolf Creek and went skiing. It was such a fun, spontaneous getaway!

February: We went on some of many hikes during 2010, which is one of our favorite things to do in Colorado. We also learned about Colorado winters. They're long and cold sometimes, but it's almost always sunny and there are random warm days throughout.

March: We bought our FIRST house! One of the most exciting but stressful times in our marriage so far.

April: My best buds came to visit me! The weather was pretty terrible, but we had a blast and of course went to the zoo. :)

May: It was definitely a top month in 2010. Michael and I both turned 25, and we went on a Memorial weekend trip to Santa Fe.

June: The Richardson's added a new member to the family -- Miss Paisley Ann! We adopted our pup. And we went to a Rockie's baseball game.

July: For 4th of July I went to visit my parents in California, where my dad has been working. Michael couldn't go because of work, but it was an awesome trip. And some friends from Tulsa visited Michael so he had a great time, too.

August: We celebrated our one year anniversary in Oregon! A good friend got married there, then we went to Portland just the two of us. And my parents visited us in Colorado Springs. They saw our house for the first time and we celebrated my dad's birthday.

September: Our friend Ryan visited from Tulsa, so we took him to the Incline. We all nearly died (well, I did). It was great! Then, we had more family time. Labor Day, we went to visit Michael's mom and Jim in St. George and spent the weekend at Lake Powell. Then, Michael's dad and Robyn came to Colorado to watch Idaho play football, and we went to a Bronco's game. It was a super fun month!

 October: We went to Estes Park to see the beautiful aspens with great friends. I went to Midland, Texas for a girls trip with my best friends and hung out with the most precious baby in the world And our girls dressed up for Halloween.

November: We spent Thanksgiving with my sweet parents in Steamboat Springs. It was wonderful.

December: To keep up the busy trend, in December we celebrated a good friend's birthday, went skiing a ton, went to Idaho for Christmas and enjoyed New Years in the mountains with my parents. What a spectacular year!