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Ahh Christmas... and the holidays

2010-12-28T09:15:00.000-07:00

Merry christmas everyone. I know im a few days late saying it, but it really has been great this year. The Oconnells came to town again this year which was absolutly wonderful. I recieved too many gifts and I love them all, and the gifts I was able to give seemed to make everyone smile. Some highlights:

I was able to take a lot of vacation Im off work from December 23rd to November 2nd. And I only ened up using 5 vacation days which is awesome. I love having 11 days off work.

The Oconnells came to town and with them they brought a lot of happiness and joy. Abby is getting so tall, only just a few inches shorter than Brittany. Ally is getting bigger too. Lifting her upside down and spinning around was a much greater challenge (we still did it though). I am becoming more and more comfortable with Brian and I feel we really had some good Sports bonding, from watching the Utes bowl game, to teaming up against Craig on his twisted view of sports. Ashli is such a beatuiful woman. How she has mananged raising her faiml,y full time work, and all sorts of life disasters, and still carry herself with such grace, intelligence, hope, and happiness while doing it effortlessly and looking so beautiful is astonishing. She is a great role model to her students, her children, her brother, and anyone whome she interacts with. I so wish we lived closer and could visit more often. Today they get on an airplane and fly back to MO. I miss them already and cant wait to see them again

Also, Abby and All got to spend the night here while they were in town. We took the girls to Village Inn for a breakfast dinner, went shopping for snacks and breakfast, played Wii and danced till our legs gave out, and then went sledding at Dimple Dell golf course. It was the first time the girls had been sledding. I think they loved it. Its hard to tell from all the smiling and laughing, but I think they enjoyed it a lot. I have some video to prove it. It was challenging and fun taking care of those 2. I wish Brittany and I could do it more often.

Chirstmas Day was crazy (and fun) Brittany and I woke up early and opened our own gifts. We got each other a lot of stuff. My favorite gift I gave Brittany is the photography classes, and the secret recipie cook books. And my favorite gift she gave to me is the pajama pants and all the tools. We then with the my Mom and dads house where we met up with the whole gang. I helped make breakfast by making the sausage gravy for the biscuts and eggs. It is the traditional christmas breakfast at our house it is oh so good. We then opened stockings and gifts. It was a wonderful time spent as family, and getting so many gifts was fun too. Brittany and I were able to give netbook laptops to Abby and Ally this year and seeing their faces light up was they very best (we have video to prove it!). After the Greenwood Christmas exchange we headed to Mike and Destiny's house. There more gifts were exchanged and Mike and Desi made some very yummy prime rib and some sort of pork salad something or other. It was very good. Brittany and I were blessed once again to be able to buy Chad and Debbie and new digital camera for christmas. They really seem to love it and are excited about viewing thier pictures on thier HDTV.

Mike and Desi are thinking of selling their house this summer, and after talking with them we are considering trying to move with them and near them. This is still up for discussion though. I don't even know if the economy will allow it!

Today DirectTV is coming today to install satalite TV. We will be giving comcast the boot. I am very excited. Should be saving us lots of money, and we got some cool promotions by doing it. Jazz tickets, free pizza, free golf, and an opportunity to meet Al Jefferson of the Utah Jazz.

We are very excited to start the new year coming up. New years day we will be sledding with Mike and Desi and their friends. I good time should be had by all.

Updates

2010-11-14T11:37:00.000-07:00

I just really havn't had a lot of drive to update the blog. Facebook is to blame. I feel I am able to keep people up dated that way, but then I looked back at my facebook posts and 90% of them are just me rooting on my sports teams. I don't want the stories of my life to get lost in random pointess facebook posts. I am hoping to put forth a better effort updating the blog.
The most important thing I can think of worth telling about is our Halloween Murder Myster Party this year was excellent. Brittany and I wrote the enitre story ourselfs. We wrote a story based on characters from the Plants Vs. Zombies game by PopCap. Google it, its is a fun game available on iphone, ipad, PC, and Nintendo DS. Brittany and I dressed up as Football zombie (me) and Sunflower (Brittany). The entier experience was great from writting, preparing, decorating, and playing the game with our friends.

The other very exciting news is that Brittany and I have taken "dramastic" steps to paying off our debt. We are doing very well and are head of schedule. We sold a car, made of a lot of overtime money, picked up extra side work, and are selling other things we can. We are following the Dave Ramsey Total Money Make Over system. The book was given to us by Uncle Kelly and Aunt PJ. Thank you to them big time! We deffinatly have gazelle intensity and are doing very well. I recommend the Dave Ramsey system to ANY one who wants to get out of debt, save money, or build wealth. Number one step that everyone whould do is create and adhear to a budget. Such a big deal!

In other news Brittany and I have been attending all Utah football home games this season thanks to our Season Tickets. The Utes were doing VERY well and ranked 5th in the nation until they lost to TCU and then to Notre Dame They are now floundering and their ability to finish the season strong is questionable at this point. We have one more home game to go to. It is the BYU game. It will the first time I have attended a Utah BYU game. I amd hoping for a big win.

Thanksgiving and Christmas are coming up and we are very excited. Ashli and the Oconnells are coming to Utah this year which is great. I miss her and the girls, and Brian. It will be wonderful to have them here again.

Journal in reverse, Final Day, Day 6

2010-08-25T08:52:00.000-06:00

There were some HUGE thunderstorms last night, very cool. Very loud, and the lighting was very close, it lit up our room even with the black out curtains.

This morning we are went for a walk, took some final pictures of the resort and surroundings, ate breakfast and checked out of our hotel.

The lady told me my final check out costs were $5.66 USD. It was for a phone call and use of the internet. She said I could pay with credit card or pesos. So I asked her what $5.66 USD was in Pesos and she couldn't answer. I ended up just paying with the credit card. Seemed weird at the time.

It is raining pretty hard as we wait for our Cancun Shuttle guy to pick us up and take us to the air port.

Driving to the air port now. It seems like a longer drive back than it did to get here. Probably cuase we were so excited to be in Mexico, and now sad to go back home.

We ate lunch at Margarittaville at the airport, it was expensive! but the salsa was great, I watched how he made it, im going to make some just like him when I get home to my tomato plants. We bought some chocolate and hot sauce at the "Duty Free" store at the air port. Now its time to get on the plane.

The flight was long and boring. I had horrible non reclining seats again, but I did watch a movie on the iPad. The iPad was nice to have for flying. Watching movies and playing games sure helped the time "fly" by. haha.

We landed in Salt Lake City around 10:30 pm and the airport is pretty much a ghost town. It took us 10 min just to get a taxi. Oh well, we're home now. Tomorrow we pick up the dog and then get back to real life.

The vacation was great, and it was one I will not soon forget. Thank you Catalonia Royal Tulum, Xel-ha, and Xplor. Next year who knows? Hawaii? Boston? New Zealand? or maybe just Midvale? Ok, well great vacation, a few days to rest before getting back to work, and then wait for Ute football to start September 2nd.

journal in reverse, day 5

2010-08-24T16:19:00.000-06:00

8am. This is the latest I've slept in this whole trip. Last night was awesome. Good conversations, laughing, dancing, and the staff around us were so friendly. The best part was the late night swim. There is a sign that says no swimming in the ocean after 8pm, but shhh, we swam anyway.

This image photoshopped using the iPad

Although I slept in everyone else was still sleeping. So I went for a walk on the beach with my iPhone camera. I found the local beach dog, and an abandoned resort. The weather is nice but a little windy. The beach flag was flying red while i was walking which means dangerous water. I enjoyed watching the waves crash for a while and then decided to go wake up Brittany.

Everyone was awake and we decided on the continental breakfast this morning instead of the fishy eggs and bacon. I do have to say the coffee is starting taste pretty good by now. The flag flying at the beach is now yellow which means it's safe enohgh to swim. So I think it's time to get some sunscreen on and get in the water.

Brittany fed the angel fish some more and the waves are much bigger today. It makes for some fun playtime on the water.

I have spent so much time in the ocean today that even when I'm sitting in a chair I feel like I'm going up and down. It was Fun at first but it's starting to get nautious.

We're eating
dinner now at the Italian restaurant. It's supposed to be meditrainian. It's good but not great food. The worst part is that it took almost 2 hours to get through this meal.

Today was a long relaxing day of sunning on the beach and swimming in the ocean. There was a huge thunderstorm during a nap and a long dinner. I'm ready for bed, tomorrow we pack and travel home. We won't even get home until 10:30pm

Journal in Reverse, Day 4

2010-08-23T13:36:00.000-06:00

The fishy eggs and bacon are starting to get old now. Also, the food is messing with my tummy a little. I hope my tummy doesn't ruin the day, today we're going to Xplor. Mike found out about Xplor on the internet at work, I think. Anyway it should be a ton of fun, we're going to go down some awesome zip lines, drive some tav 4x4s through the jungle, and swim through some under ground water caves.

Rudolpho picked us up on time today. The drive was shorter, and the conversation was good, just like yesterday. We found out Rudolpho owns the transportation business, and spent the evening at a conference in Cancun.

This place is so cool, there are stalactites and cave wonders all around us. They gave us the run down of the park. It is a very neat concept the whole place centers around one location. You go on an adventure that starts at the heart, and when you are done you finish back at the heart. Also, there are cameras hidden everywhere that take your picture as you enjoy your adventures. They make you where a helmet for safety everywhere you go, but the helmet also has an RFID chip, and at the end of the day, they can pull up all the pictures of each individule based on the helmet number.

We did the zip lines first. There are 14 zip lines total, and the run a total length of about 2 miles. It was so fun, the staff is extremely good at what the do, very friendly, and I never felt unsafe while they were hooking us up to the numerous zip lines. I found out how to twist around while zipping, which in turn forced me to learn how to not twist. Not twisting is the faster way to zip. Soo cool. Debbie was very very nervous about the zip lines, but she did great. How cool is it to do this kind of stuff with the in law parents??? (very)

Driving the 4x4 was next. Brittany did most the driving but I did my share as well. It was a 3 mile trail through the jungle, caves, over suspension bridges, and through a shallow river. You never feel totally disconnected from the park, but you deffinately are driving through the jungle. We were following a VW corporate group, so it slowed us down as they were a very slow group to be behind. The instructor at the beginning though Mike spoke spanish and so instructions were a little confusing. We did eventually get them in english.

The jungle drive took quite a while and so when we were done it was lunch time. We headed to the restaurant they have just as they were opeining. It was perfect, we were almost first in line and didn't have to wait, (as a side note, this whole vacation was perfect timing, we never got stuck behind a lot of people and so we never had to wait. Also the weather was very cooperative, it did rain, but never when were trying to have fun. It was either during naps, or at night, when it was fun to watch the lighting storms on the beach, or while we slept). Back to lunch, it was very yummy and It make me wonder why there aren't any "all inclusive" park resorts in the states. It is a awesome concept, and I would like to see it somewhere back home.

After lunch was the river float on hand paddled rafts. It could have been really neat, but we were stuck behind some gals that didn't get the concept of paddling the raft with your hands. They mostly couldn't figure out how to steer. There was also a screaming baby. So, it sorta sucked. It could have been a peaceful float through a cave, but it wasn't. Thats all I have to say about that.

The rafts could have been nice, but they were frustrating, so it was on to the under ground river swim. They dress you up in these silly yellow life jackets, and then you swim through this nice cool refreshing cave river. Except there were about 20 other people swimming at the same time, so it was a little crowded. Everyone enjoyed the swim. I didn't swim, because the river was about 5'8". So I was tall enough to just walk through the whole thing. The ending was my favorite because there is a huge circle water fall you float though. It is pretty intense because there is water falling all around you. But it was very cool.

At this point we had enjoyed all the major adventures except one. The only thing left was the hammock chair zip line. Its the same concept as a regular zip line, only you sit in a hammock chair instead of a harness. The ending of the zip is into a pool of water. It was refreshing, but less exciting than the real zip line.

>

Rudolfo wasn't the one to pick us up, but he sent one of his employees. He was not as cool as Rudolfo, but he was trying his best, and he was still a great driver and profided good conversation for the drive. However, about 10 min away from the hotel the van we were in started making a funny noise. The driver pulled over, and determined we couldn't go any farther. He called zippy the emergency back up transportation and we made it back to the hotel fine. It could have been a little scary, but we felt like we were in good hands the whole time.

Dinner and a late night swim in the ocean ended the day. It was for sure the most fun day of the trip. Something tells me tomorrow will be the most relaxing.

A Journal in Reverse, Day 3

2010-08-22T20:37:00.000-06:00

Off to see some really old rocks today... AKA the Tulum Ruins.

We arranged for transportation from the hotel to the Tulum Ruins, then to Xel-Ha, and back to the Hotel. It ended up costing a little more than we expected but still cheaper than going with the package deal the internet wanted us to buy.

Again we were nervous about the transportation because we had the bell boy arrange the shuttle, the guy was late, and in the morning the bell boy was differen't than the boy who we origianlly talked to. It ended up being perfect. The drivers name was Rudolfo, and he was awesome. Destiny asked him a simple question about which of all the ruin isn Mexico is the best. His answer was not just an answer but a history lesson on the Myans and a converstaion that lasted the whole 45 min drive. He took us to the Ruins the "back" way as to avoid all the traffic and it was very neat, not only that but he walked us the the ticket counter and made sure we were going get going right. He told us he would want 1 hour and 30 min and then take us to Xel-Ha.

The Ruins were neat. I could picture all the activity in the area that might have been there years and years ago. Brittany took lots of pictures, which is good, because it was SO hot and humid we just wanted to get through it quickly. We didn't get a guided tour, and we felt that maybe we missed some great information, but as hot as it was, I think it would have been hard to fully pay attention. Plus we had Rudolfo who told us lots about it anyway.

We met up with Rudolfo at the prearranged meeting time and he took us to Xel-Ha. Again more great converstaion from the driver. He was so friendly and informative.

Once at Xel-Ha we lathered our skin with bio-degradable sun screen. The resort requires the hippy sun screen so as to not damage the eco system. whatever. The stuff is thick and sticky. Very hard to rub in.

Xel-Ha is like a big natural water park. There are serveral underground rivers that feed this big ocean inlet. You can snorkel, swim with Manatees, swim with Dolphins and Snuba dive. Which is like scuba and snorkle all in one. They have rock cliffs you can jump off of into the water and water caves, AKA "cenotes"

We snorkeled in an area we were told hard lots of fish. It did indeed have lots of fish, but the was was a bit murky. We then walked a long walk to the beginning of the river. On the way Chad, Brittany, and I jumped off a 12 foot rock cliff into the water. It was fun, but it gave me a headache that stayed with me all day long.

After a long float down a cool watered river we ate lunch. The float was nice, I had my snorkel gear, but there wasn't much to see. Lunch was ymmy, but anything would have been great as hungry as I was.

After lunch was my favorite part. My headache was killing me and I was exhausted. The whole family decided a little nap on the hammocks would be really nice. They were right. I fell alseep quickly even though I thought I never could sleep in that kind of heat. Brittany woke me up a bit later and it was time to snorkel some more.

We reapplyed the thick sun screen and headed to the opening area of the inlet. As soon as we got in the water a huge school of Barricuda fish swam by. It was very very cool. There were tons of fish and the water was clear. We swam the width of the opening to the other side where there were "cenotes" or "water caves" Once inside we saw a huge fish, one about the size of Apollo, our dog. It freaked out Brittany and Destiny, but I thought it was cool.

My head ache was pounding at this point and it was almost time to meet back up with Rudolfo to take us back to the Hotel. I did see a star fish on my swim back to the dock area.

We got a little lost trying to find our way back to our lockers, but it was cool cause we got to see the dophins doing some of thier tricks.

Back at the hotel we napped, ate dinner at the Tapas resturant, and then went to bed, we had a long day behind us with another long day ahead of us. The Tapas resturant was cool, it we very modern feel, and the style of food was american, but they came out on small plates, so you ordered serveral little dinners and shared around. It was a great idea, with a great atmosphere, but the food was only just OK.

Good night now, tomorrow is Xplor, ziplines and swimming in a water cave, and more

A Journal in Reverse, Day 2

2010-08-22T20:36:00.000-06:00

Aug 15

Good morning! Lets put our swim stuff on under our clothes so we can go straight to the beach after breakfast.

Breakfast is on the opposite side of the beach area, about a 5 min walk. The eggs and bacon taste like fish. the milk in the coffee looks funny. My pancakes are good, but the syrup is different. Again, welcome to mexico, things are slightly differen't than what im used to. The food wasn't BAD, but after dinner last night I was expecting something ymmier.

Mike and Desi remembered their snorkel gear so they are heading straight to the beach. The rest of us have to go back to our rooms before we head to the sandy area.

Well, I must say this... If we didn't have anything else planned, and we just sat on the beach and watched the waves come and go, this would be a perfect vacation. SO NICE!

After some relaxing, its time to play. The girls are already in the water feeding the angel fish and I am the last to choose to get wet. Ive never LOVED the ocean, and the salt water always bothered me, but play I will!The angel fish are very cool, brittany is feeding them a bannana, and they are going nuts for it. If these angel fish were pirhannas we would all be eaten alive.

The weather is nice, and the waves aren't big at all, so its time to snorkel.

This is the first time snorkeling in the ocean, so it took some time to get used to it, but we are all swimming with our flippers and doing quite well. We see fish and coral, and sand. The water is very clearn, but there is not a LOT of life to see. I found a sting ray floating along the bottem of the ocean. It was very cool! My fingers are getting all wrinkled and my belly tells me im hungry. Its time for lunch!

After lunch we rent (for free) some kayaks and paddle out into the water. Th 6 of us are enjoying our time, but soon realise we should have broght our snorkel so we could see what might be further out. So we head back into shore. Chad and Debbie to not come back out with us. We snorkel around a bit, but nothing new.

More laying on the beach, oh so nice. But with the sun and play, its time for a nap.

We ate dinner at the Mexican resturant tonight. I had a burrito, it was good. We also tried some very hot peppers.

After that, Brittany and I were still tired, so we called it a night. Tomorrow Tulum Ruins and Xel-Ha

A journal in revearse, Day 1

2010-08-22T20:27:00.000-06:00

In theater class I was taught never to apologize for anything before you actually do it. So, I am not going to say sorry for not writting any blog posts. Im just going to get started again...

This last week Brittany and I went on a family vacation with the Kerrs (Chad, Debbie, Destiny, and Mike). We went to Playa del Carmen area of Mexico, which is just south of Cancun. These next blog posts I am writting after the fact, but will try to write like a journal.

Aug 14th 2010
Today is going to be a long day, Brittany and I woke up at 3am. We just couldn't sleep, the anticipation is more intense than Christmas Eve night. Our flight takes off around 7am, but we have to drive the Chad and Debbies, finish the group packing, and take a taxi to the airport. They say you are supposed to be there at least 2 hours early. So, we're up at 3am. I already have my traveling outfit picked out, I wanted to be as comfortable as possible on the plane.

We've arrived at Chad and Debbies. Everyone is awake, but not so chipper. Hopefully this vacation starts soon.

The Taxi is late, we were supposed to leave 10 min ago. I called the cab service they said the guy is on his way. I hope he gets here soon.

When I called for transportation I recieved 2 quotes. A shuttle service wanted $68 to take us to the airport, a Taxi wanted about $20 No brainer decision their! Oh, the guy just arrived, its time to go.

Our first stop is going to be Pheonix, AZ we have a short hour layover, and then a short 4.5 hour flight and we will be in Mexico. Debbie has worried about the flying for months now. But she is doing quite well. A few nerves are showing, but all in all, she is giong GREAT! Chad Loves the window seat. He is a big time hiker and loves to see all the different views the land has to offer, so from a plane he loves to see what the land looks like from above. His giddyness is like a child.

Both flights we had crappy seats. Always near the lavatory, or an exit row. You frequent flyers might alrady be aware that these seasts don't recline, for those of you who don't already know, they don't recline.

We are landing in Mexico now, there is a strange white smokey substance leaking into the cabin along the sides of the air plane. It is cold to the touch and has no smell. My guess is that it is some sort of condensation due to temprature and humidity, but some people in the plane are acting like babies about it. Im sure if there was a problem they would announce something

Immigration and customs went smoothly, but hearding an entire family through the proccess is exhausting. I see other families at the airport with small children and strollers and lots of bags. How do they do it all? I think if we have children we will not go to Mexico until they can walk on thier own.

Cancun Shuttle is the shuttle service we booked on the internet to take us from the airport to our hotel. It has made me very nervous to purchase something like shuttle service over the internet. They charged my Credit Card, they called the day befor the trip to confirm everything, but how do I know there will be a guy waiting for ME and my Family? They said to look for a guy in an orange vest holding a sign with the Cancun shuttle logo. Have you hever been to the Mexico airport? There are a million people trying to get your attention, time share salesmen, transportaiton drivers, and who knows else. I cant see the guy I am supposed to be looking for, my mind is racing. Oh crap we got screwed. Now what are we going to do??? OH, there he is, we're good. "everyone, this way" as I heard the family (see, transportaion to and from the airport was my job and I did not want to screw it up)

The shuttle ride was.... nice. It was private, which means no one else was in the van and we were able to drive straight to our hotel. But it took the whole family a few minutes to realise the speedometer needle pointing at the numbers 120 were KM/H and not MPH. Still, the driver was going very fast for this 2 lane road, ignoring his turn signal, and totally ignoring any lines painted on the road. Debbie actually slept through the drive, Chad tried to talk about "soccer football" to the driver who didn't speak English and had communicated he didn't care for "soccer football" Brittany and I just laugh. The drive was about 45 min and we arrived at Hotel Catalonia Royal Tulum

Checking in at our all inclusive resort took some time. I think it was more that were 6 people, with 3 differen't check ins that made it take so long. Other than that all is well. They will deliver our bags to our rooms, they had a nice juice drink waiting for us to refresh us form our long trip and cold damp towel to cool off with. The temperature and humidity are amazing, phew its hot. They put a braclet thing on our wrists, we have to wear it the entire week we are here. Thats how they knew we paid instead of just sneaked in off the beach.

The walk to the rooms is beautiful, and there are iguanas and other small wildlife all around.
Our room is very nice. They left us a fruit bowl and bottle and champagne, and a fully stocked mini bar, which is free to partake of (this is all inclusive).

The family take a moment to settle, but we are starving. Lets go eat! There are several resturants at the hotel but only 3 of them are open each night. Tonight we will just go scope it out and take whatever looks easiest. We walked to the beach. On the way there is a very neat wooden bridge across the jungle and an amazing pool. As we aproach the beach, the ocean draws us in, like the tides pull the water. Our feet are suddenly running, splashing, and enjoying in the warm, clean, clear, ocean. This is going to be fun!

We were told the dress code for dinners is casual. So none of us dressed up in any way for dinner, just our traveling outfits. Chad and I were told we didn't meet the code because we didn't have any sleeves on our shirts. Of course the girls don't need sleeves, but the men do. So, its back to the room to change before we can eat.

Tonights dinner was amazing. I had bbq ribs, others had steak. If all the food here is this good, we are in for a treat!

We were told that tonight is the pool party night. The DJ is setting up his sound system and lights. Cool! Everyone is very tired thought, and its only 8pm. The party doesn't even start until 9:30.

The pool is closed for the moment, but Debbie just jumped in anyway. The pool boy told her she had to get out. We are going to have to wait until the party starts to get in to pool. We wait for about 10 minutes, but everyone is too tired to sit and wait an hour more to get started. Mike and Desi call it a night and head to their room. The 4 of us head to the Chill area. Its a cool relaxing area with little huts and small sandy area, and a shallow pool. I am so tired, but I think I can manage a soak in the warm shallow pool.

The soak was so relaxing and quite romantic. It was wonderful to just lay back and relax in the pool. But the DJ is starting to play his music and the pool boys are throwing floaty things in the pool to lay on. There are only about 10 people even to be seen, and only one girl in the pool. There is another girl dancing to the music at the edge of the pool.

Chad Brittany and I are the only ones left from the family. Everyone else went to bed. We soak in the pool for a bit. Until a pool boy comes by and invites us to play vollyball. Im tired, but eh, sure why not. We play for about 30 min I guess. Its hard to play the area is too big, the water is a little too deep and not enough people are playing.

As we left the pool I noticed a few more people had arrived to party, but not a lot. Its late, its been a long day, and its time for bed. More relaxing tomorrow with adventures to come the rest of the week. Goodnight, Welcome to Mexico!

Bloggers Block

2010-05-13T10:15:00.000-06:00

I really really want to blog something. I know the 6 of you who read this enjoy hearing the things I have to say here, but I really don't know what to say.

Ive been working a lot lately. Thats good for the paycheck. Bad for the free time.
Its been rainy on the weekdays and nice on the weekends. Only problem is I don't necessarily have weekends off work, so Im not yet enjoying any of the scarce nice weather.
Ive been running some sprinkler lines for the garden. I am almost finished, but with limited time to work outside (bad weather, lots of overtime) Its been hard to finish up this project. I was lucky to mow the lawn last night and finish connecting the pipes together. Now I just have to tie into the valves, and then bury all the pipes.
After I get the sprinkler project finished I can plan some vegitables. I feel like im getting a late start in the garden. Im hoping I don't lose too much time.
Brittany has been taking a stained glass class on wednesday nights with her Mom. I thought that it wouldn't effect me too much to have her got for 3 hours on a wednesday night, but Im finding I really really miss her when shes gone. Much more than I thought I would.
Going to be going to MO soon to see my Sister and her family. I cant wait. It should be a great vacation. Thanks mom for allowing this to happen.
I really want an ipad. I don't know why. I cant really think of any valid reason to own one, but ive played with one and it just tickels my fancy. I also want to buy the new iphone when it comes out. To afford this I am trying to work some extra freelance hours. I am also working extra freelance hours to save for a vacation we are going on in August. I am also working extra freelance hours to pay off debt. The priorities are so hard to keep straight. Do the things I know need to be done, or do the things I really want to do? or both?

On a final note I am craving a sugarglazed doughnut right NOW.

The water pipe.

2010-05-01T08:52:00.002-06:00

Last weekend our almost 60 year old house starting showing signs of ageing. It sprung a leak.

I woke up early in the morning to get ready for work. About 5:00 AM like I always do, nothing was different from my normal routine, except that as I headed to the bathroom to "freshen up" I could hear water running. You know the sound, like someone left the toilet handle running. So, I checked the toilets, no problems there. Then my mind went to panic. Oh-no, our ice maker water line might be pouring water all over our hardwood floors in the kitchen... Nope, all was dry in the kitchen. Puzzled I thought of the next possibility. My groggy mind straining to rev its engine this early in the morning. I remembered that I had been playing with the yard sprinklers to get them ready for the warm weather. So I ran outside to look for running sprinklers... again, nothing. Strange. Maybe Im just worrying too much, besides I need to get ready for work, im wasting time and I need to be to work on time.

But, the water pressure at the sink is low, and I just know there is a serious problem. Now my brain is starting to purr. Brittany wakes up, and comes to find me. I think she somehow knew something was wrong. I tell her the situation, and the ideas ive already tried. We are both puzzled. Not knowing what to do, because we have no idea what the problem is, I continue to get ready for work. I brush me teeth, using low water pressure to rinse my mouth. I slap the sink, "darn it" I think, something is wrong I've got to figure it out.

So, I ran outside again to check the main water valve at the street. I again can hear the water running, but I see nothing. And then I take a step. SQUISH-SLOSH. ICK! Im standing is 2 inches of muddy water. Ah Ha! This makes sense. Ok, whats happening here? Come on brain, THINK! Its either the sprinkler line, or the main water line. I double check to make sure all lines to the sprinklers and shut off. Confirmed. Darn, this problem is big, its the main water line.

Call to work. Its busy, they need me.

Me--"Work, Hi its Eddie, umm im gonna be late I have a water problem"
Work-- "Umm, (silence) ok."
Me -- "Its my main water line, I gotta get it shut off, and then Ill be in"
Work -- "Are you sure?"
Me -- "Yeah, sorry. Ill be there as quick as I can"

Click

Both parties frustrated.

LONG STORY SHORTENED... I got the water line turned off, and headed to work. Stress level HIGH (water pressure, very LOW).

I call Brittany, we discuss our options. We decided to call a plumber and get a quote to have it fixed. Did you know plumbers are expensive, and when its an emergency thing like WATER TO THE HOUSE! they charge even more. Lets just say, the quote we got was hard to swallow. (After all we had nothing to wash it down with.) I called the home insurance. They don't cover the water line on the outside of the house. Of course. Dad offered to help pay. Im stubborn. I don't want his money, not until I've exhausted my options. The only option left was to fix it our self. I found out if I did the digging I could save a little money, and then have a qualified plumber fix the water line. So, not overly HAPPY about having to dig a big hole we decided it was our best option. At the very least we would have a good start.

We rallied the troops (anyone with a strong back and a shovel) and started digging at about Noon. And when I saw We, and mean the troops, because I was stuck at work! I was able to show up about about 1:00pm. We dug and we dug for 5 hours and the end result was this!

I called a couple of friends who had some plumbing experience and they were able to come over to the house around 7pm and evaluate the situation. They were confident they could fix it then and there. They were ready to work all night if needed. So we went to the local hardware store looking for the parts.

LONG STORY SHORTENED -- Home Depot and Lowes didn't have what I needed. We were faced with waiting until Monday when the big boy plumbing shops opened up. But the guy and Lowes had a great idea to run a temporary line. So we worked until midnight to get temporary water to the house. It was wonderful. The water pressure was even better than normal.

They next day my buddies were so excited to work on my problems that they took off work just to help out. Wow, how awesome is that? I felt a little bad, but Ill take the charity! We went to the plumbing store, got a GREAT deal on all the stuff we needed and headed back to the house to get busy. An hour later we had water running to the house. No leaks, no drips, no problem. It was amazing how simple it really was.

Now the hard part, putting all the dirt back in the hole. First thing first, LUNCH. I fed all the volunteers well. It was the least they deserved.

A few hours later all the dirt was back in the hole the grass was back in place and the girls of the men who were workin had BBQed some yummy food for dinner. We had dinner, and some chatting time and then we sent everyone home. It had been a long weekend, in the sun, in the heat, lots of stress. I was tired.

In the end I saved about $2000.00 learned some new tricks, and found out I have a great family and wonderful friends. I am forever greatful for everything everyone did to help.

Lessons learned:
Keep a cool head when disaster strikes
Plumbers are expensive
The dirt in my front yard is soft, sandy, and relatively easy to dig (you know for digging 4 feet deep)
My family is awesome
My friends are the best
Copper is expensive, Plastic is not
If you are digging a large hole and are planning on putting the dirt back in the hole, put some ply wood down so that the dirt doesn't get stuck in the grass all around it.

Best Wife EVER!

2010-04-07T07:37:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was my birthday, and let me tell you what!

After a long boring day at work (excitment for a birthday will bore any event) I finally made it home. Brittany welcomed me with presents, brownie cake, and the most beautiful smiles ever. She was so happy for my birthday, even I wanted to be grumpy I couldn't have been. She gave me binoculars, a doggie backpack, some travel doggie food bowls, and Jazz tickets! After some primping time, we headed out to dinner (la frontera) for some yummy burritos, and then to the Jazz game.

I didn't know it at the time, but it was about to become the best Jazz game I have ever been to. Yes, the game was exciting and felt very much like playoff intensity, and the jazz did win 140-139 in OT. But it was the first game Brittany and I had been to together alone. We had so much fun laughing, taking pictures, and cheering on our favorite basketball team. I was able to use my new binoculars at the game to see that Kyle Korver has a balding spot (Brittany was quite sad about that), and I decided I don't like Ronnie Prices new hair cut. See, we had good seats, but they were still in the upper bowl, so the binoculars were a major plus.

My offical party with friends and family is on hold for better weather. Salt Lake is struggeling for warm weather, we even had snow on my birthday. So stay tunned for my birthday excitement newst a week or wo from now.

I am now 27 years old, and I really am starting to feel older. I am officially in my late 20'sand 30 is now in the horizon. Hopefully they find that fountain of youth soon.

Oh, and incase your still shopping for my birthday, don't worry about it. All I want at this point is a million dollars, so checks and cash can be sent in my name. Thanks.

I met my wife

2010-03-09T09:31:00.002-07:00

I met my wife June 6 2006. I met her on an internet personals ad.

It used to be that people frowned at you or made a funny face as if they bit into a rotten avacado when you tell them you met your spouce on the internet. But it seems the more people I tell my story to, I hear the a simular story back.

Picture this, im single, im lonely, I live alone. My only friends are my friends from work, and quite frankly after work those friends are the last people I want to see during social hour. So, going out, being social and meeting new people was difficult. Not to mention that by nature I am reserved and usually choose for the action to come to me. Not that I am not willing to participate, I just would rather my adventures choose me than the other way around. But thats a thought for another day.

Most people use their past experiences to help them through their next step in life. As I did when I was feeling a little lonely. When I was in highschool, I had a fairly good social network (before facebook, myspae and twitter was even thought of) using AOL instant messenger, known by me at the time as AIM. I chatted with several people from school all the time, and was able to meet knew friends easily, while in highschool. I was much better at chatting online than in person. It was easier for me to make people LOL on line than it was in real life. I was comfortable there in AIM land.

So fastforward to the late spring of 2006, and I am asking myself how I can meet new people. I decided to hit up Yahoo.com as I knew they had a chat service simular to AIM. Turns out not only did they have a chat service they actually had a dating service. So I "put myself out there" on the yahoo dating service. I was hesitant at first so I just put up a profile. I wasn't really willing to pay the $15 bucks to actually contact people. Again, I hoped the action would come to me, as it was my prefered method of interaction. After a couple weeks of hearing NOTHING I made a bold decision. Pay the $15 bucks and actually contact someone!

I rationalized it by telling myself, $15 bucks is less than it would cost to actually go out somewhere socially, say a bowling ally, and hope to meet someone. Plus this way I could do it from the comfort zone of my own couch. So I sent a few "ice breakers" out to girls hoping to get an ice breaker back. The equiviant of saying, "Hey you don't have to actually talk to me, but in the event that I was to ask you to talk to me would you be interested?" Very soft and non commital, right? Well I still got no feedback from any of these ice breakers. Honostly, im glad, I didn't really care for any of these girls other than the fact that they were in fact girls. So being rejected by their nonresponse was probably the same rejection they would have felt from me after I never responded. (to me, that makes sence, maybe not to you but I get it).

Until I came across the profile of this girl with blond hair, in a bikini, sipping on a cocanut drink. Stereotypical right? Wrong. yes, a bikini, but covered up, and a head and shoulder shot only. Ok, yes stereotypical. However I was intrigued. There is something about the things you don't see that are sometimes more apealing that the things you do see. Anyway, it was enough to get me past the hundred thumbnails of eager womens pictures and specifically interested in this just one. She had a profile. I don't remember the exact wording... adventure, outdoors, camping, softball, etc, etc...and a line, "can you keep up with me" PFfff!!! keep up? who was this girl trying to kid? Keep up! ha! It was a challenge, and I bit! Something about the profile and the picture, I was hooked. I was going to actually talk to this girl I was going to get my chance to keep up come hell or high water.

So determained as I was, not going to let "no" stop me, I sent one of those wimpy non commital ice breakers. I heard nothing back. Do you have any idea how frustrating it is to not hear back? its like, You hope for a yes, you can handle a no, but no response? Its like Im not even worth being told "get lost" Scums in bars, and losers who pick up prostitutes hear "get lost". Me? I don't even get that courtesy. Just digital black. Nothingness. I might as well not even exsist.

Ok, so, but Im determained to at least hear something from this yahoo girl. So I send another ice breaker. "That'll show her" I think, "She cant ignore me twice" If I bug her enough I should at least get a "get lost" Then I will feel as if I don't totally suck. I can handle "get lost", but nothing? nothing is getting hard to accept.

Full of confidence with my second icebreaker sent, I am sure Ill hear back. a week goes by. and... nothing. and then a couple more days, and I get an icebreaker back from yahoo girl. it says, "Hey I like your profile" or something lame, and totally not the response I was expecting. I was thinking some soft of aknowledgement of my prior two ice breakers, but no acknowledgement whatsoever. Now Im laughing at myself. So, its not a yes, its not a no, and its not a get lost. Its just random?   I move on to stage two, Irritated. Ok, yahoo personals sucks is what im thinking. But as determained as I was I wasn't about to stop, the goal was to actually talk to this girl, and talk I was going to get. So, I excersized my $15 dollar rights I purchased from yahoo, and sent an honost to God email. And I was blunt.

"Hi, my name is Eddie, here is my phone number, here are my two email addresses, and if you would like to meet me, please get a hold of me"

This was my last ditch effort. If I didn't hear back from this, I was going to give up on girls all together... wait no, no thats a joke, but I was going give up on yahoo girl for sure.   So 2 weeks go by, TWO WEEKS and nothing. can you say, MOVED ON. I was done with this chick-ita.

So as a single boy, feeling rejected and useless my brain moves on to the next productive thing it could think of. Tennis. Right? why not tennis. So its a weekday afternoon. I have the day off for some reason. And I head to the courts with a friend, we play tennis for hours. We are exhausted, sweaty and tired. It was great. For those few hours I had forgotton all my yahoo girl problems. So I pack up my stuff and head for the car, time to hit the shower. I grab my phone and notice I have a message. Probably someone from work. Work always calls, expecially on my days off. So I wait to get in the car and find a pen. I listen to the message. Guess who it was? yeah, Yahoo Girl. She says, and she says it really nevously, "Hi, this is Brittany from yahoo. You sent me your number in your email and I thought it would be nice to talk, you should call me back after 4pm" she leaves her number and hangs up.

HOLY CRAP, are you kidding me? who does she think she is? can I keep up? boy... shes two weeks late on this email thing. Yeah I think I can keep up. But of course this girl is the only thing I can think of until the predetermained time to call. All I can think about is how cute her voice sounds. coupled with the picture she had on yahoo. I was excited. You can imagine all this pent up energy and excitment, its a big deal, for me it was anyway.

So I call her at 4pm exzactly. She answers. We chat for a second. Truthfully I am not interested in small talk at this point. I have had enough waiting. "Do you want to get some dinner tonight?" I ask her, she says, "tonight?" "yeah, tonight, lets do it" She agrees. We arrange a meeting place, someplace public, someplace safe. I don't want her to think im some internet weird-o.

So we met. The rest is details, but I met my wife June 6 2006.

Eddie and Brittany are moving

2010-02-24T08:45:00.002-07:00

We decided to move. We loved the movie Avatar so much we bought the technology James Cameron used to make his movie so that we could live on the Navi Planet. We are sending this post card to show you we are doing well. We love and miss everyone!

Uncle Eddie, again!

2010-01-19T06:26:00.002-07:00

My brother Craig and his wife are with child. This is supposed to be a time to congratulate them and give them hugs and kisses and talk about baby names and wonder if its a boy or a girl.

But what about how Uncle Eddie feels? No one asks me when they are preparing to make babies. I just always get told weeks, sometimes months after the fact.

Well since no one asked Im just going to tell you. I HOPE ITS A BOY, so that if/when I have a boy, there will be hand-me-downs. So that I can teach him the things about being a boy that an uncle should. Like how to spit, and scratch, and get girls to like you. See the uncle doesn't have to follow the code of politeness and proper eticate, no, the uncle gets to do the fun things, and then try and keep it a secret from the parents. Baby girls are useless for this type of interaction. They don't want to spit or scratch or catch footballs or chase slow moving trains and hop on. They also have no interest in breaking girls hearts. So, while little baby girls are cute, and warm and smell nice, they are a totally differenct kind of "baby to uncle interaction".

*disclaimer* Since neither my sister or brother have yet to produce a baby boy for me to Uncle, I make huge assumptions on the "uncle to nephew" relationship. Until I get the opportunity to to experience a nephew I can only go off stereotypes and wivestales.

Congrats to Craig and Beckah on being prego, Good luck to them and everyone cross your fingers for a boy!

2009 year end review

2009-12-24T07:53:00.000-07:00

Every about this time I get chirstmas cards and letters from friends and family and the often times tell a story of the 2009 year for them. I thought this year I would do somthing sort of the same. ed'WORDS' 2009 blog year end review.

How this is going to work: I have compiled and will review the most populer blog posts, month by month based on the most comments recieved within that month. Ready? lets start with Janurary.

Jan -- The Utes did it. I blogged about the University of Utah going to and winning the Sugar Bowl. My favorite comment came from AshliO, "Eddie, is your brother gay?" It was in response to my brothers super lame comment about football.

Feb -- Super Power. In this post I posted a question for my readers to respond to. It was about super powers and if you could have one what would you want yours to be? I disected a few super powers of my own, and then updated with my opinion. My favorite comment came from Craig Greenwood, he responded with the most complete answer.

March -- Stash or no Stash? That was the question. Everyone answered with a resounding NO! My favorite comment was from Jujusma, "yes, but i think that despite his statement to the contrary, he actually is a dirty m." She was refering to an inside joke that we share, so it was especially funny to me.

April -- Swine Flu. ed'WORD' chimmed in on this post with my thoughts on swine flu and using medicine to heal. It was the most research put into a post to date, it also helped that I was sitting at a medical conference that was talking about just that, the swine flu... excuse me, H1N1. There was no specific comment that was my favorite, but I did enjoy the conversation that created by the post.

May -- 101. This was a milestone for ed'WORD' it was my 101st blog post. It was mostly full of pictures from building the gazeebo and fish pond. The pond ended up being a summer long maintance chore. But it is sure nice having. My favorite comment came from Craig Greenwood, "for the record... jealous" I don't like to make my brother (or anyone for that fact) jealous, but I do enjoy impressing Craig. As his little brother, his opinion means a lot to me, so I feels good.

June -- In June, I reviewed my family memebers. I feel like it was a success with my readers. People enjoy reading about themselfs, especially when good things are said. My wife, and My sister tied for most comments, my favorite comments for the sister post came from Aubrey who was able to relate, as we both had sisters who were friends, and we were friends. Good memories to look back on. My favorite commet on my wife came from Beckah, "Geez Ed. I know what you'll be doing tonight"

July -- Summer was in full swing. I posted a simple picture of my Neice taken by my mom. I labled it "Neice" My favorite comment came from Larry who wrote, "simple and clever, I see you I see you also got the pic of my knees to go with the neice. nice!" Dad loves to rhyme.

August -- The Cathedral of the Madaline had their fund raising event at the Big H in August. My favorite comment came from Sam who said, "Looks pretty dang cool, you are talented!"

September -- Funny Uncle... enough said.

October -- I was involved with a company called Hunt Mysteries. I ran lighting for a production called Which Witch is the head Witch. at this point in the year comments started dwindeling down to not much, so winners for this review were tough to esablish. I did not have a favorite comment to this post.

November -- Comments almost to a complete hault at this point. But there were 2, and that made my Meter Update a winner. AshliO, I would love to spend christmas in MO.

December -- I started a blog about gadgets. I copied the same post from that blog on this blog. It was the most popular entry for December. It was about HDMI cables and how they are all the same (for the most part). I don't think anyone who reads ed'WORD' cares about my gadget writting, but they did rally together 4 people strong to make "HDMI, the thruth!" the winner for December.

If you read this blog, you are the closest people to me, because I likely keep in contact with you. You wont find me on facebook, or myspace, or twitter, or any other social web sites except here at my blog. Im usually super busy at work and with lifes emergencies, so likely you know the most about me through this blog. So, consider this my Christmas card, you have received because I love you and wish you the happiest of holidays! Have a great new year and enjoy whatever time off you have. I know I will.

Eddie

Thanksgiving AND Christams

2009-12-20T21:08:00.000-07:00

Thought I would share pictures from Thanksgiving and photos of our Christmas decorations.

The hardest part...

2009-12-17T07:24:00.002-07:00

Sometimes the hardest part of waiting for christmas isn't waiting for the presents you get to open.

The hardest part for me comes when I know, without a shadow of a doubt, that I found the best gift for "so and so" to open.

This year, I feel like I (and when I say I mean we) have done some increadible shopping. Number one, we shopped for Angel Tree kids. That was the best feeling Ive had in a long time. Two, we had a very strict budget this year. And we kept to it (not to sound cheap, but we actually stayed under it a little!). Thirdly, while staying in that budget, I feel like we purchased some of the best gifts to give ever! EVER!

The hardest part about Christmas though, isn't the presents, or the waiting, or the wanting, or the too many treats, or shopping til dropping, its not the tree, or the lights, or the candy canes. The hardest part is seeing those without, go, without. Its such a great time for family to be together, for people to help people, the cold weather helps us slow down, and appreciate life for what it is, and its hard to watch others struggle. Im not saying I don't do my fair share of struggeling, but I am better off than most in the world.

I am thankful to have a great family and a house and all the wonderful things that make Christmas traditions so fun, It just makes me sad to know that some out there don't have the same privalige.

The hardest part of Christmas is not getting caught up in the commercialism of it all. Jesus Christ is the reason for the season. His name is the first half of the holiday. Sure there are debates that he wasn't really born in December or you have those that get all bent out of shape that Christians would dare make the holiday season about God, so now we have to say happy holidays at company parties instead of Merry Christmas. But as a Christian, regardless of the debates, Im allowed to celebrate the birth of the saviour sent by God the Father to earth to save us all from our inherant sin. And with all the festivness of the "holiday season" Christmas is just as good a time as any. Jesus is the reason I celebrate Christmas, and the buying of gifts, and decorations, and cookies, candies, and eggnogg is not going to distract me from that.

The hardest part is that Christmas only comes once a year. For me it feels like this Christmas season came out of no where and is catching everyone off gaurd. It just hasn't felt like Christmas. Maybe it is the down economy? Maybe im just getting older? Maybe im just a whiner. I realised the other day we have less than 10 days til christmas morning and I caught myself wishing we had more time to enjoy it all.

Merry Christmas!

Shopping shopping shopping

2009-12-10T13:50:00.000-07:00

DONE!

Brittany and I are complety done with our 2009 christmas shopping. Everyone on our lists is accounted for, and all presents are wrapped. I finished the last bit of it today.

How are you doing this year? Let me know.

To my wife:

2009-12-09T07:45:00.000-07:00

From the lyrics of Bon Jovi, I dedicate this to my Wife:

I'll be there for you
These five words I swear to you
When you breathe I want to be the air for you
I'll be there for you
I'd live and I'd die for you
Steal the sun from the sky for you
Words can't say what a love can do
I'll be there for you

HDMI, the truth!

2009-12-08T08:07:00.003-07:00

Recently I have been asked this question a lot. And because I am passionate about gadgets I feel I should share the answer.

The question: "Is there a difference in between cheap HDMI cables on ebay, and the expensive ones at the big box stores?"

The answer: There is absolutely no difference, I GUARANTEE it. (and I usually don't guarantee anything)

I was absolutly flabbergasted recently when I asked this question to a sales man at a local electronics store. He flat out lied to my face about the reason some cables are cheaper than others. I didn't even ask about the "cheap" ones on ebay. I could see it in his eyes that he knew he was lying, and Im sure after he was done he knew I knew he was lying.

First of all what is HDMI? HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is a compact audio/video interface for transmitting uncompressed digital data.

English you say? is a cable that transfers Audio and Video in the same cable, digitally.

All the cables in the typical home theater system can be the cheapest ones available, with zero loss in image or sound quality. In audio, if a cable does affect the signal, it does so at frequencies inaudible to the human ear (and even then, it has to be of some kind of unusual construction, or very very very long.) The same is true of ordinary video. It is true that certain kinds of connections are superior to others (component video is superior to S-video, which is superior to composite, etc.) But the reason for that has nothing to do with the particular cable you are using.

The only reason you should choose an analog cable over another is your preference in its construction. Is it solid built? will it fall apart?

Further, HDMI cable carries digital signals. Analog signals always degrade in a cable, but it is generaly always imperceptible, and are often unmeasurable. But digital signals can theoretically be transmitted with no degradation AT ALL. None. (And even when there is signal degradation, buffering and error correction can fill in the holes perfectly. The HDMI spec doesn't include error correction, but why should it? The distance is 50 feet max, and is usually less than 3 feet.)

So if you are asking yourself which HDMI cable to buy, remember digital is digital, it is either there or it is not. You do not get signal dedrigation from the cable, if you are experiencing problems, you should probably look at the equipment your are using, rather than the cable.
A more expensive HDMI cable in the big box stores gives you a fancier colorful package, often with more words on it. It also puts more money in the store's registers. That is all.

But the HDMI spec is evolving, and it is possible that in the future, newer equipment will require more throughput than current cables can provide. For example, if for some reason you didn't want to use the video decoder in your HD-DVD or Blu-Ray player, you might need a HDMI 1.3 cable (the latest spec) to carry that bitstream to your decoder. (So far there are no such decoders available, and no reason to want one.)

P-o-i-n-s-e-t-t-i-a??????????

2009-12-08T07:55:00.002-07:00

The Utah Utes Football team is going to the Poinsettia Bowl this year. They will play Cal. It should be a good game. I think its on Dec. 23 or 24. Check local listings. But the more important question right now is how to you procounce that darn word, poinsettia. I found this artical on KSL.com and thought I would share.

By Paul Nelson
SALT LAKE CITY -- How should the word poinsettia be pronounced? Most of the Utahns I spoke with dropped the long "E" sound, opting for "poin-set-ah" as the official pronunciation.

If you ask them why they pronounce it that way, they might not have a reason.
One man said, "It's just the way I've always said it."
A Salt Lake City woman said, "'Poin-set-ee-ah' sounds weird."
But which one is technically correct? Is it "poin-set-ee-ah," or "poin-set-ah?" One professor says they both could be slightly off.
"My guess is that it was closer to what a British pronunciation of the word would be, and that's ‘poin-set-ya,'" says Vincent Pecora, chair of the English Department at the University of Utah.
Pecora says the word was coined in the early 19th century by a French man named Poinsett. An "ia" was added to name the plant, so it's safe to assume the "I" is supposed to have a sound.

The professor says the two different pronunciations probably came from regionalization. He says his friends in New York add the long "e", but people in the south leave it out.
"If you say it like ‘poin-set-ya,' you could see how, perhaps, some people took that to mean ‘poin-set-ah' and other people turned it into ‘poin-set-ee-ah,'" Pecora says.
He says it's not uncommon for us to say something wrong so often that the wrong word can feel like the right one.

"Think of how many people will say, instead of saying ‘regardless,' they'll say ‘irregardless.' Now, ‘irregardless' doesn't exist as a word," Pecora says.

For the final say, let's consult the dictionary. It says both pronunciations are acceptable. So, the dictionary is no help.

So, bloggers, how do you pronounce it?

Christmas parties begin

2009-12-05T09:50:00.002-07:00

So, its christmas season, and you know what that means? Christmas parties. They are in full swing here at the big H. That means I am uber busy the first 3 weekends of December. I hope to find my own couple of christmas parties to attend to as well, anyone wanna invite me? Well, for the spirit of christmas I thought I would share this poem I found.

If you see a fat man, who's jolly and cute, wearing a beard and a red flannel suit;

And if he is chuckling and laughing away, while flying around in a miniature sleigh;

With eight tiny reindeer to pull him along;

Then - let's face it - Your eggnog's too strong!!

Angel Tree

2009-12-03T06:59:00.002-07:00

This week the Kerr family and I purchased gifts for a couple of kids that we "adopted" from the Salvation Army Angel Tree. This is the first time I have been involved directly with supporting a good cause at christmas time. I have felt like Christmas was getting to be too much about presents, so this was good medicine for me. I felt good to be able to help these kids that would otherwise not have a nice christmas. We bought some toys, but mostly clothes that they desperatly needed.

It makes me feel good to help out. I hope I can do more moving forward, but its good knowing that even just a little bit of help goes a long way.

To the woman with the biggest heart in the world:

2009-12-02T06:36:00.002-07:00

Dear "woman with the biggest heart in the world,

I wanted to send you this letter to tell you I appreciate you more than you could ever know. I am astounded everyday when I see the love, effort, and care you put into the world around you. During these last few weeks, and holiday, you have been so great to my family, your family, and everyone around. I have noticed the hard work you have put in to make thanksgiving a great day for everyone involved. You planned ahead, planned creativly, and saved money. Everybody had such a great time at thanksgiving and it was all because of you.

Its not just that though. Your love for children astounds me. You just have this special place in your heart for kids. You work hard everyday to make this world a better place for them. Maybe not directly like you used to, but you do make a difference. There are not enough people in this world doing good things for kids like you do. But its not just children, your love spreads to all the people you interact with. You make me wish I could be better.

As my best friend in the whole world you make me smile, laugh, and love. You make me want to be a better person. It is for you that I wake up everyday and do my best. Whenever I don't do right by you, it eats at my heart. I wish I could make everyday as wonderful for you as you make it for me. I promise to make this last month, the best month of the year. I love it that you want to look sexy for me, but I love it even more that you are sexy, just you, being you. I cant wait to spend the rest of my life with you,

Your husband,
Eddie

Christas can officially begin

2009-12-01T16:25:00.001-07:00

Ok, so the meter goes up the meter goes down, but what does that really mean? Nothin. Not until now. At work last week (the day after thanksgiving) the Grand A held an Angel Tree, Christmas tree lighting, free christmas extranaganza. It was a success. We had santa, the jazz bear, kids chiors, a great big christmas tree, and of course lighting by Eddie. Sentator and ex astronaut Jake Garn flipped the switch to turn on the tree, and everyone who showed up were given free hot chocolate, cider, scones, cinnamon almonds and there was cookie decorating and letters written to santa. It was truely a magical night. So, here are some pictures of the event.

The Kerrs showed up and we all adopted a few kids from the angel tree and will be purchasing some gifts tonight. This has my heart bursting with christmas joy. The work it took to make this christmas event happen was exhausting and it took many many people to make it work, and it made me feel bah hum buggy, but now that its over im feeling pretty good about it. Check the meter so see just how good! The only thing that might make it better would be a visit to MO to see Mama A big A little A and Daddy B.

Meter Update

2009-11-28T10:40:00.001-07:00

Ok, admittedly today I am more in the spirit than my meter shows, but yesterday was a trying day and I was not feeling it, but I didn't have time to change the meter, so I am changing it today. Hopefully when we decorate the house I will gain some christmas spirit.

Meter Update

2009-11-23T16:03:00.001-07:00

Christmas meter updated

2009-11-22T08:06:00.002-07:00

So, I am updating my Christmas meter today to show you my current mood. You'll see the meter is now updated to todays standards. I realised the old meter was a little 1970's. And if you know me, I must have the latest technology, so I updated it. This at least brings me into the 1990's maybe Ill make a meter that will rival the iPhone. Just waiting on the photoshop skills to develop. Also, instead of making a new post for the meter everyday. I will update the meter in the side bar. So look for the meter there. Thanks, enjoy!

Animated!

2009-11-20T08:57:00.003-07:00

So I did it! I learned how to animate my meter. Its my first step into the world of animation, aren't you proud of me? I guess you can derive from the meter that I am unsure of me Christmas spirit today. Actually. That's not true. I'm quite excited. Today I am working for Hunt again and will be earning the last little bit of money that is going towards Christmas this year. There might me an opportunity to make more, but I am still deciding if I want to work extra during DecemberOk. Well enjoy the animation!
p.s. All the artwork and animation was created using photoshop. All artwork is original by Eddie Greenwood

Christmas Meter

2009-11-19T08:32:00.005-07:00

There has been some question as to my spirit for christmas this season. I don't know what it is, but I just haven't felt like Christmas much this year until recently. Maybe everyone else was just early and I am just now catching up. Either way, I thought I would make a little meter to show how "festive" I am at the moment. This way there will be no question as to how im feeling. You can just consult the blog. Thanks

Who is this guy?

2009-11-12T08:56:00.003-07:00

I was recently digging through some old files on the computer and found this picture. It is of me when I worked at Musicians Friend way back in the day. Can you say cube farm?

Did someone say cruise?

2009-10-25T08:56:00.004-06:00

Whats up folks?

I have been so stinkin busy its crazy. Crazy crazy. If you've read some of my recent posts you know I am working with Hunt Mysteries on the Halloween show, "Which witch is the head witch?" It is going very well. We have had a good time, and people really enjoy the show. There is one more weekend left to see the show. It will be in Logan, Ut this last week, (Jael and Steve I am looking in your general direction...) and you should check www.huntmysteries.com for tickets and more information. Come see the show. Ok that being said. Who wants to go on a cruise?

Hunt Mysteries is taking over a cruise ship this spring and there will be a week long murder mystery (as well as 2 other murder mystery shows). The best part is its a great vacation for not too much money. The details are just starting to come together, but I wanted to get this information out now so you can start thinking about it. If I can convince 4 or more people to do this cruise I (and my wife) will go with you. So let me know if you are interested. Its going to be in the spring, sometime in Feburary probably so start thinking about it now! Seriously, Im not just plugging info for Hunt Mysteries. I would love to go on this cruise and I want ya'll to come too. Lets do it! eh?

Hope to hear from you soon

2009-10-14T11:50:00.001-06:00

So today is slightly better but I'm still stuck in cheyenne. Thought
Ide post a picture of my fancy private ride when traveling for work.
Ok so it's not mine but it does make traveling nice

2009-10-13T13:50:00.000-06:00

We made it to Cheyenne after much delay due to weather. But as we arrived the power in the city of cheyenne went out. We are unable to do av without power. This trip is feeling like a bad idea.

Sent from my iPhone

Waiting around

2009-10-13T08:07:00.001-06:00

Today I am flying to Cheyenne wy to the "L" hotel. We are flying in
the G3. But it looks like we won't be able to take off on time. We are
delayed due to weather in Wyoming. They say it is freezing rain and
freezing fog. The Cheyenne airport doesn't have the proper equipment
for deicing the plane so we can't go there til the weather gets
better. Oh and the fog is so thick the pilots wouldn't be able to
land. So. For the time being we are stuck in salt lake. I'll update
sometime to let you know if we made it.

Sent from my iPhone

"social media network policy"

2009-10-07T13:47:00.003-06:00

Today I was emailed the new company "social media network policy" For reasons most of us understand the "man" doesn't want his employees talking about the work place on social media web sites (facebook, twitter, blogs, etc.) So, from this point forward when I talk about things at work I will refer to it as the "Hotel". Non brand specific, and location free. If you want more details about a post regarding the workplace, I will be happy to talk about them in email, phone calls, or face to face. Thank you.

Which Witch?

2009-10-06T11:32:00.005-06:00

As some of you know. I am doing lighting for a Mystery Theater Dinner company called Hunt Mysteries. I am working for them the month of October to make a little extra casheesh. And for a strole down memory lane working in theater. Although AV at the Hotel is a great job, its not necessarily as fun or exciting as entertainment via thespianistic practices. So I got myself involved in this production. I have seen a few of the rehearsals and it looks like its going to be a great deal of fun. For those you who don't know how it works here is a run down.

Come to eat dinner and enjoy a show... er participate in the show. Sit down, actors will mingle with you, becareful what information you reveal to them, you might end up in the show. After a little bit, the show begins. The actors take character and entertain you while you wait for dinner to be served. There is a small intermission for you to eat your food, and try to solve a mystery murder (halloween themed of course), at which point the acting begins again and the story unveils itsself. There is dancing and signing and acting. You eat, and are entertianed. Its fun. If you are interested in coming to see the show visit Huntmysteries.com and call the number for reservations. Mention code HMMEGA or HMMILLER for a discount to the show in South Jordan.

Little London

2009-09-27T16:14:00.000-06:00

Funny Uncle

2009-09-14T07:32:00.003-06:00

Beckah took some pictures of me and Brittany when we were in Jackson Hole and she finally posted them on her blog, so I quickly stole them and I am posting them here. Enjoy.

I cant tell if Brit is happy about being so close to me or not...?

Nieces make Uncles do funny things. Anything to stop the baby from crying.

Recent evets at the Grand America Hotel, oh and Eddies Life too.

2009-09-14T07:11:00.006-06:00

Here are some more pictures of another event at the Grand America. I once again was in charge of lighting design.

It was a long weekend to make this happen. Thursday night we set everthing up. We had to because we had to set and focus the lights in the dark, and we had to do that before the event actually started. So, I was working late Thursday, until about 1:30 am. Back up at 8am working until 12:30am the night of the event, and then up again the next morning to take Brittany to Jordanell Resevoir for some wave runnin. It was a long weekend, but a lot of fun and good times.

Also we are having plumbing issues at the Casa de Beynon Ct. So, any pipeing prayers you can send our way would be appreciated. Our laundry maching drain keeps backing up, and it seems the only way to fix it is to snake the line every couple of months. Its icky smelly and no fun. Our pipes are runnin' clean right now but who knows for how long?

In other excitement, Football season is in full effect now. We are now season ticket people to the Utes games. We went to the first game and had a great time. We rode the motorcycle and were able to find good parking because we could sneek in a small space. I burned my leg a little though getting off the bike. My leg pressed against the exhaust pipe. OUCH! All in all it was a great time though. Our next game is Sept. 26

Brittanys Birthday is the 17th of Sept so you know we are gearing up for a week of celebration... She'll be older this year. She keeps hoping her birthday would just be about the party, but every year it seems the numbers in the age category keep going up. Oh well...

Last bit of news. Mike and Desi are finishing thier basement. Last weekend I helped run the electrical and all the AV cableing. Mike is going to have himself a killer hometheater room. I always wanted to finish the basement at the condo, but I didn't get a chance. So im living vicariously through Mike and Desi as the finally finish it. Ill post some pictures when its done.

A picture of Mom

2009-08-29T20:41:00.004-06:00

Mom had me scan some old pictures for her recently and I wanted to post one of them with her in it. She is quite a bit younger in this photo. Uncle Bill and Aunt Deanna are in there too, but this is about my mom. Love you mom.
Eddie

Hunstman Cancer Foundation

2009-08-28T07:14:00.003-06:00

Last night at the Grand America Hotel was the Huntsman Cancer Foundation fundraiser dinner. We again were the Production Company used, so I thought I would share some pictures of my lighting design and the Audio equipment I am using. Also I snapped a picture of John Huntsman for mom. Hope you enjoy.

Over the Edge

2009-08-28T07:00:00.004-06:00

Last week there was an event here at the Grand America Hotel called Over the Edge. It was a fund raising event for the Special Olympics. The group asked people to raise $1000.00 dollars to go toward the Special Olympics and in turn you could rappell off the roof of the Grand America Hotel. I was lucky enough to have the money laying around in a sock drawer so I sign up and over I went. I have pictures to prove it...

...ok just kidding. But the event really did happen and people really did pay to do it. I was there to take pictures and another guy in my department took video. Here are some of the pictures of Attorney General Mark Shertlef, 2002 Silver Medal Bob Sledder Bill Schuffenhauer, and some other local news people. All pictures of the event can be seen here.

Flyng home from Cheyenne

2009-08-25T14:56:00.002-06:00

Posted via web from edspics's posterous

Home Theater

2009-08-25T08:57:00.000-06:00

Some pics of a home theater I installed last month for Mikes boss. It's was a good project and they decorated nicely. The home theater room is something I eventually want to have in my home. It's very coo

Sent from my iPhone

Lost Puppy!

2009-08-23T09:22:00.003-06:00

Yesterday Brittany and I were riding our motorcycle around town. It was a nice late afternoon. It wasn't too hot, but it wasn't cool outside either. Just perfect for a quick little ride. We were headed to see Craig and Beckah (oh who am I kidding, we were really on our way to see London). We stopped at a stop light of a fairly busy intersection. Just waiting for the light to turn green.

After we had been sitting there long enough to be bored, but not long enough to get anxious about the light turning green we see a little puppy crossing diagnally through the intersection. Brittany covered her eyes in terror of the thought that the puppy would be hit. I leaned back,

"Honey, should we try to chase the dog and keep him from getting hurt"

She didn't reply, she was speechless with the thought of the poor puppy.

I said, "OK, lets try to catch him."

Just then the dog crossed the road again. Luckily there were no cars passing by at the time.

Our light turned green and we made the turn towards the dog. He was headed toward a large parking lot. Not the best for cornering a dog and catching him, but way better than darting back into the road.

We followed the dog until he dead ended himself to a fence line. I was so anxious to catch the dog I asked Brittany to jump off even befor I had stopped the bike. I quickly (but safely) stopped, handed Brittany the Iphone and asked her to look up animal services. I then headed toward the dog. I crouched down near the ground like I had watched Ceaser do, and called the dog to me. He looked at me like I was a little crazy, he might have been right. However, he did start to come to me. At about this time I notice two other cars had pulled up into the parking lot and some other ladies are also crouching and calling to the dog.

I wondered if either of them was the dogs owner, because the dog immediatly veared off its path toward me and headed toward the lady 50 feet away from me. As soon as he did the lady got excited and stood up. BAD MOVE! This intimdated the puppy and he pulled one of the best studder steps Ive ever seen. (It was like watching Barry Sanders). Then he put on the speed. The overweight lady had no chance of making a dive to grab him. He was now headed back toward the road.

I could see where he was intending to go so I took off running. He went left of the Bank, I went right. I was going to cut him off. And I did. As soon as I had him in front of me again I crouched. "Here puppy, puppy!" Small step left, quick step right, back to the left, turn on the speed. BOOM he was gone. This little guy was quick! I ran after him down the sidewalk until her veared off into some guys yard. He bounded over some weeds and into a field. I had already ran a good 100 yards, and I was pooped. The dog was well in front of me. I gave up.

I thought back to when I thought I almost had him in the parking lot when the other ladies showed up. I could tell the dog never had any intention of letting me grab him. He was gonna "shake and bake" me until he saw an easier target to get around. This pup was smart, fast, and on a mission. I felt bad that he got away. Some family out there is probably terribly missing him. I hope they find him. And although I was frustrated that the ladies help screw up the capture, it was nice to know that several people saw this dog running wild and were trying to help. I think there is a bit of decency left out there, you just don't get to see it unless you yourself are doing something decent.

I walked back to Brittany and she told me that Animal Services was closed on that Saturday evening. I guess that even if we had caught him we would have been stuck with a pup and no where to go. It was a good little event though, so Im glad we experienced it.

Cathedral of the Madaline

2009-08-20T07:26:00.006-06:00

Pictures from the most recent event at the Grand America Hotel. Lighting design by yours truley.

The Dog

2009-08-07T07:04:00.003-06:00

Thought I would go ahead and post a couple pictures of the dog, since I have nothing worth saying right now.

Getting ready to go hiking with Bandits pack. This is his first "packing" hike. He did really well with it. He carried my bottled water for me.

All tuckered out after the hike. You can see how spoiled the dog is, he gets his own pillows. (this picture was actually taken before the hike, and he isn't really that spoiled, the pillows just happened to be on the floor and he took advantage of it.)

The ol' west

2009-07-27T17:55:00.003-06:00

This last weekend Brittany and I went back to the old west days. It was a fun trip. The Delorian did fine, and we had enough jigawatts to get us back to present time. I won a bunch of money gambeling using todays secrets and cheats, and Brittany stole it all from me at gun point. Oh, we took our camera with us, we got this snap shot to remind of us the events. Somehow during time travel the money disaapeared. We must have hit a bit of Enron turbulence on the way back.

My Neice

2009-07-21T21:13:00.001-06:00

Brittany

2009-07-06T09:48:00.002-06:00

I wanted to share with the world how beautiful my wife is.

4th of July Weekend '09

2009-07-06T06:55:00.004-06:00

This was a fun-filled weekend. It all started Wednesday July 1st. Brittany and I headed out camping to South Willow Canyon (one of our favorites). We had good food and relaxed, but we mostly got rained on. There was a peaceful moment our first morning that felt like God was shining on our campground, so I snapped a pictures to remember it.

Shortly after that the sky closed back up and it rained for the next 10 hours. Apollo was muddy, I was wet, and Brittany was bored. Chad and Debbie joined us that evening, and we endured the evening, but the next morning we decided to cut the camping short and come home. It was a hard decision to make, but we just didn't want to sit in the rain all weekend. We had good reason to believe it would keep raining.

Well, Murphys law was in play this weekend, because, when we got home from camping it didn't rain a drop. It was hot, and sunny and wonderful. We had lots of burgers and stuff left over that should have been eating in the mountains, so we had Chad, Debbie, Mike, and Destiny over for a BBQ and a movie night in the back yard. I borrowed a projector from work and set up a screen in the gazeebo and we watched "Yes Man" which was halarious.

Not to let the summer days off go by, we insisted on staying busy with fun, so the next morning Brittany and I had famous Eddie biscuts and Gravy and eggs (made by Brittany) for breakfast. And then we went and watch the movie Public Enemy with Johnny Depp and Christian Bale. It was a good movie, but a little long. I recomend it, it was a good story about American gangsters John Dillinger, Baby Face Nelson and Pretty Boy Floyd during the booming crime wave in the 1930s.

Later that night we went to Chad and Debbies for our traditional 4th of July BBQ and fireworks (3rd annual for me). Chad made good ribs, and burned corn on the cob (poor Chad tried really hard on the corn). As soon as it was dark enough we shot some firworks that Chad bought, and some we had leftover from last years visit to Evenston Wy.

Not to waste a moment, the next day, our last day of the weekend, we wend to Joan and Dayns for another BBQ and good time with friends hanging out listening to good music. The night, and weekend eventually had to end, and it did at about 9:30pm Sunday. Brittany and I drove home, and exhausted our heads hit our pillows and it was all over.

Today is July 6th, and we still have 26 hecktic days left until we finaly slow down. We still have Mike and Destiny's Bachelour/ette parties, Camping at Mirror Lake with Bryce and Sam, Craigs birthday shindig at Jackson Hole white water rafting, and finally Mike and Desi's Wedding on Aug 1st. After that Brittany and I hope to die happy. Because we will have been through it all together (well maybe not all).

Sister In Law -- Desitiny

2009-06-16T07:52:00.002-06:00

Destinty, aka Desi for short.

Desi is Brittany's sister. She is the younger, crazier, "dyes her hair more often" sister.
Desi recently got tattoos on her feet. They look good, but its something I don't think Brittany would ever do. (Just for comparison)

Desi is getting married this year (Aug 1st) to Mike In. They have been together for years and years. High school sweet hearts. Aww... how cute. I wish them the best. I look forward to having Mike as a brother in law. Im hoping the 4 of us are great friends for life, and that we always stay close

Desi works for a Dentist. She is an assistant. I have never had the opportunity to have my teeth cleaned by her or her dentist office. But the we she talk about her Doctor, he sounds like a decent dentist. Im not fond of dentists really, but oh well.

Desi has fun doin what ever she does. But Ive noticed she never wears real shoes. Its either flip flops or something fancy, or bare foot. Desi is very fashionable and keeps ups with all the trends.

Desi is a good sister to have. She can help me when I need a hint for a present for Brittany, or some advice "dealing" with her. Ill be surprised if she actually ever reads this. We'll see...

2 year anniversary

2009-06-15T10:36:00.003-06:00

June 14 2007 I married Brittany

2 years later we had a 2 year anniversary. We went to Sun Valley Id. and took advantage of my R&R from the hotel. Basically the hotel gives me 2 nights of free everything at any of the properties within the company. We chose to go to Sun Valley because it seemed to be the best option for us. We had 2 nights, free food, free bike rentals, free movie (we watched Angels and Demons). We swam in the heated pool in the rain.

The best thing that happened on the trip (that I can talk about) was when the power went out. The first night we were there at about 9pm when we were about to sit down for dinner, the power went out in the entire resort. We sat down at the resturant anyway, and had cheese fondue and a salad. The resturant was completely dark, there was a guy playing the piano, and our table was lit by candle light. It was perfect.

We got there Friday night and drove home Sunday afternoon. On the way home we stopped at an ice cave and saw some ice in a cave. Its just slightly more interesting than that. Click the link to read a little about it.

All in all it was a great vacation. Brittany will probably post pictures and more detail later. Maybe.

Beckah Greenwood, Sister in Law

2009-06-15T09:54:00.003-06:00

Beckah is my brothers wife.

She is the woman who completes Craig. Before Craig knew Beckah he was just a boy, lost and confused. After Craig and Beckah got married Craig became a new person. Finally, truely happy, and complete. Beckah made the man.

Beckah has since become a great sister. She is not only a wife, sister, aunt, daughter, neice and friend. She is a Mom. She gave birth to her first (and only for the moment) daughter a year ago. Her baby London is quite the perfect little baby. I think it has something to do with the mom.

Beckah is also an artist. She took up photography recently and boy has she taken off with it. She has the eye for a great photo. She also has the skill to manipulate that photo into a fully polished "ready for Time magazine" picture. Her art is not only her photographs. You see it in the way she decorate her home, dresses her daughter, and the way she enjoys the world.

Beckah always seems to be happy and eager to enjoy life. Shes the kind of woman that is easy to talk to, and she is a good back up sister for while Ashli is away. But she is no back up. She is the real deal. I love my sister Beckah, and am happy to call her family!

Debbie, my other mother (in law)

2009-06-10T18:35:00.003-06:00

My mother in law Debbie Kerr is the next person I would like to talk about in this series.

Debbie is a wonderful mother. She is the cutest little mom. If there is an event, like camping or a day trip hiking, or just a pic-nic she always is the one getting ready to go. She packs snacks and drinks. She makes sure us kids have our jackets, umbrellas, or sun screen.

She is not a grand mother, but she does things that remind me of my grandma. She bakes cookies during the day for no special reason at all. She just does it. She knows flowers and plants more than any one person should. She always worries about her children. Especially when there is no reason to worry at all. Its very sweet.

Debbie and I have a good relationship. She always gets a little akward when I give her hug. She loves me as her own child. And I love her like my own mother. She raised 2 wonderful daughters (one just a little more wonderful than the other, in my book!), she loves her husband unconditionally, and she is a good woman. Im happy to call her Mom.

Chad Kerr -- FIL

2009-06-08T20:18:00.003-06:00

Chad Kerr, is my Father in Law. He is supposed to be the scariest "father" you meet after a few dates with a good lookin' girl. He can bench press the state of Wyoming. He's huge. Shoulders as wide as a mack truck. Arms as big around as the legs of a dancer. You know, "What are your intensions with my daughter tonight" and then the stare that says, "If you lay a hand on my daughter, Ill kill you" But I said "suppose to". Chad was one of the coolest "guys" I ever met. He was interested in my car, my interest in weight lifting at the time, and never threatened me in any way, physical or psycological. I wasn't worried at anytime I was with Brittany, so it made it easy to be myself and to successfully woo her!

Chad turned out to be a great friend, and a great father in law. Even though we are mortal enemies. See he is Denver Broncos fan (boooooo!!!!). He loves, camping, hiking, sports, local news, gardening, family, and all kinds of interesting facts.

Chad visits his mother in Casper, Wy almost twice a year. His entire family lives in Casper. All his brothers and sisters, neices and nephews. But he moved his wife and grew his family in Utah because he thought it was best for him. I admire him for doing what he believed was best, even though it would be painful to live a distance from his Mom and Dad.

Chad most recently turned 50 years old. But he is as strong and health as a 30 year old man. He is very active and athletic. He lifts weights everyday, eats right and works hard and long. He tries to go hiking or participate in an outdoor activity everyweekend.

My father in law has become a great friend, and even better father in law. I am happy to call him "Dad" even though I usually just call him "Old Man" He can take a joke, and he gives one out just as well. He is a great man.

Weekend

2009-06-05T13:53:00.002-06:00

There will be no posts about the people in Eddies life this weekend, please check back Monday to see who is next!

Craig, the Brother

2009-06-05T09:56:00.000-06:00

OH Brother!

How to discribe Craig?

The Facts: He's a boy, has curly hair, a great drummer, skilled musician, he is 31, he is married, he has one baby girl named London. Craig is a middle child. Craig is inteligant, maybe too intiligent. I think he outsmarts himself sometimes. Craig is funny, he loves the simpsons, most of his jokes are variations of a scene found in the Simpsons. The Beatles are in his top 3 bands of all time. WhiteHeart is one of the other 3. I don't know that I could tell you who the 3rd one is, and I can not tell you which order they go in.

Craig is my brother, 7 years older than me. This made for a good friendship. We didn't have to compete for attention like a lot of brothers do, because we were so far apart in age, that we were in different stages of our lives at all times. I always strived to be just like my brother. He was my role model growing up. If Craig could do it, I wanted to do it. If he drank sprite for breakfast, I wanted sprite for breakfast. One time, he was so sick of my doing everything just like him, he tricked me into thinking he was drinking water. I found out later that it actually was sprite! Craig played the guitar in highschool. I thought it was so cool. So what did I have to do? You guessed it, play guitar.

I always followed Craig, I admired everything he had and wanted to be just like him. When he went to college he was in the school band, and they toured around. One time I got to see them play and he told a story about a friend of his running sound for the band, and that that friend was going to work for Disney Land, and was gonna make a lot of money. That was a defining moment in my life. I wanted to run the sound board, and I knew if I did I would always have a tie to craigs musical career. I was sure Craig was going to be a famous drummer one day. Plus it sounded like sound guys made a lot of money, specially working for disney land!

Craig and I are tied to the hip when it comes to music. He's better than me at it, but I try to keep up with my audio skills. The truth is, I fake it a lot. I think he does too. We are deffinatly brothers, just ask anyone who has been in the room with the both of us for a 5 min conversation. We speak the same, we are stubborn the same. We both live our lives very simularly, even though we never discuss our hopes and dreams. We just seem to be on the same page all the time. If he jumps, I try to jump higher. If I jump, he tries to jump higher. We are always pushing each other to be better and to do better. I dont' know where that bond started, but it has grown very strong.

"He aint heavy, he's my brother"

Ashli, the Big sister

2009-06-04T09:24:00.000-06:00

Ashli,

Ashli Pashley Puddin in pie...

and I never knew if there was more to that little rhyme, but if someone ever had a 2nd mom while they were groing up it was me. My big sister read books to me, she helped me learn my phone number and address. She gave me advice whether I wanted it or not. She styled my hair, she made my brush my teeth. She was the mom I already had, and a sister.

Then POOF! One day she got too old to play mommy assistant and she went of to some strange land called Missourri. How dare she go and educate her self. I was 8...ish? Ashli was still my go to for advice and stories. I told her all about school, sports, life, and of course girls. Email was not really a thing at that point. If it was I was totally unaware of it, and it was probably only religated to people like Bob Dole, and the military. So, we wrote letters, yeah snail mail, and phone calls. But even long distance phone calls could be costly, and so those conversations were short.

As you can imagin, as the years went by, living so far away from sis, our converstaions got less and less. She got married, I was a rebelious teenager. (Me rebelious? nah!) I feel like there were several years there where we didn't keep in touch at all, and I only heard the news from Mom. She then had a baby, and I was getting old enough to talk like, and be treated like an adult. Our relationship started changing at that point again. I think this is where it changed from Big Sis the Mom, the Big Sis the Sister. Which is ironic, because she was herself turning into an actual mom.

Today, Ashli and I are sister and brother, and we are friends. She has a family, a husband, and two wonderfully inteligant children. She has several nieces and a (nephew or 2?). She still lives in that very strange place called Missourri, and Ill never fully understand why!? Ashli has had her share of up and downs through the years, but she has always handled it with grace. She trusts in the Lord, she believes in God, and in everyway I see her as the Christian God called us all to be.

She is a beautiful woman, a loving mom, a caring sister, and a great friend. I just wish she didn't live so far away.

Larry, the Dad

2009-06-03T10:21:00.000-06:00

Moving on with the series,

Larry Wayne Greenwood is my Dad.
He is the best dad a boy could ever have.
He never encouraged me to do anything that would get me introuble, but I always knew he supported me in everything I did.
I feard my father. Not like I was afraid of him. I just respected him and always wanted to good for him. My dad always pushed me to do better. He also taught me to cut corners where possible. Sort of.
Dad was the smartest man I knew grewing up. He always knew how to build things, fix things, make things, and be funny. I never knew where he learned these things, it seemed he was always just making it up as he went, but it was always great whenever he got done. Wheather it be building a cage for the bunnies or telling a joke.
He also seems to know everything. But not in a know it all kind of way, just in a "yeah ive heard about that before" kind of way. My favorite example of that is from a recent event where Brittanys dad asked my dad some questions about the moon and Larry knew the answers. It was neat to see my Dad and Dad-in-law conversing in such ways.
Dad is a big guy. 6' something and large. Not what you would say fat, just big. When he disciplines it takes just a roar of his voice to put you in your place.
But his voice is also very calming and soothing.
My dad is the ultimate dad. I hope with fathers day coming up, he will read this and be happy. I do love my dad.

Phyllis, the Mom

2009-06-02T12:00:00.000-06:00

The next in the serious is Phyllis, the Mom.

Mom is only other woman in my life that can make me drop what I am doing to help her out.
I think it should be that way with moms. Afterall, they are the one that brought you into this world, the least we can do is help them out when they ask. Im not always able to do so, but I really try at every moment.
I respect my mom in everyway. She has lived a great life. She has delt with Dads sillly antics for a long time now, and for that, its a marvel that shes not crazy.
I rememeber growing up always being able to talk to mom when I was emotionally hurt, or excited. When I talked to mom, it was the only time I could release my emotions and feel like I was actually getting rid of my burdens. She has always had that nurtering nature.
Mom has always loved my friends as if they were part of the family. She cared for and worried about us as if she was everyones mom. Not that I had a lot of friends around the house, but still, she cared.
I believe I got my organization quircks from Mom. She always wants her ducks in a row, and it stresses her out when the ducks get out of a row. It happens to me too. Its not a bad thing, it just is what it is.
I love my Mom and I thank her for having me eventhough she had every reason not to. Thanks MomM

Brittany, The Wife

2009-06-01T09:47:00.004-06:00

This is the first of a series of Blogs to describe the people in my life. I begin with the closest person in my life, my Wife.

Her name is Brittany Ann Greenwood
She is 5' something and a hundred some pounds... actually her hight and weight don't matter much except to me. I think she is perfectly shaped. She is as tall as a woman should be and has the sexiest curves exactly where they should be.
Her hair is blonde, well God made it blonde, but she changes the color all the time.
Her eyes are blue, but not always, sometimes a hint of green, and sometimes a hint of gray.
When she smiles, heaven shines through her face. Her eyes twinkle, and her cheeks reflect the golden streets that awaits us in the afterlife.
When she talks, she only speaks of the things she knows of. She is rarely wrong, but when she is its just because she gets a detail or two out of place. She never speaks out of turn or misleads on purpouse. Unless she is trying to trick her husband into buying something for her.
She has an artistic talent that is directly decended from Michalangelo or Bob Ross or something. She has the "vision" you know where when you decorate, or arrange things. She can see what they looklike before you actually set it up. It saves a ton of time in reserching ideas, cause she already knows how it will turn out. This goes for painting, jewelry, pottery, decorating, clothing, etc. Which just so happends to be most her hobbies.
When you know Brittany, you want to be her friend. She is nice, smart, funny, cute, friendly, and caring. She is genuin, and real.
She is my best friend, she is my wife. She makes me feel good when she rubs my back. I enjoy talking about the future with her, I enjoy talking about the past with her.
Her name is Brittany Ann Greenwood, and she is my wife

Fish in the Pond

2009-05-29T09:25:00.007-06:00

We now have a new pet(s) at the Greenwood House. We have added fish to the pond. They are great. I picked up 5 free goldfish from family here in Salt Lake City. I found their ad on KSL.com. They seem to be thriving in their new home, but it has only been 2 days.

The only real problem we are having at the moment is Apollo is now very curious about the pond and he had messed up some plants and dinged up the design. Until I get him trained to stay away I am expecting some heartache from him on this issue.

We also had mesquito abatement come by and they gave us some free mequito fish. They are pretty small, but there are 5 of them. I am told they will grow some. Until then there are no pictures. Well, thats the update on the pond. Enjoy.

101

2009-05-25T20:04:00.009-06:00

I don't like introductions that begin with an apology. It shows weekness and you only struggle to gain your audiences respect from there forward. I prefer to assume I have the respect from the beginning and ask forgivness later. That being said, I have not been "blogging" for a few weeks now, but this is my 101st blog which I think is pretty big, so I wanted to make sure the post was gonna be worth reading. This post is about the things I've been up to for the last 3 weeks. Let me begin with the beginning.

DAY 1

This is the gazeebo as is when we moved into the house, ironicly this is also exactly the way it looked like the day we tore it down.

End of Day 1

This is what it looked like at the end of the day.

Some time a few days later

Brittany and I went shopping at the Home Depot and bought some supplies. Brittany stained the wood and I started cutting, drilling, sawing, and building. Check out the next few pictures.

A few days later

It took a few days to get the structure up, I mostly worked alone,

but had help from Apollo,

and help from friends and Dad.

Days later...

The design is really coming together at this point. Im starting to feel pretty proud of my self.

Brittany helped with a lot, but mostly with the finishing touches.

2 weeks later
Vwahlahh!!! A finished patio cover.

So, that was about 2 weeks worth of hard, honost, solid work. I did most of the muscle work, while Brittany provided the design and support. She's the brain, and the beauty.

This however was not the end of the project for us. As you know Eddie and Brittany never do anything half way. Nor is enough good enough, so we dug a hole and filled it with water. Yes, we now have a water garden. Check it out...

So, we had a lot of fun putting this together. There were other projects inbetween, like vegitable garden and flower garden, and some fun time together. Brittany and I took a date to Hotel Monaco, and had some fun at Keys on Main, but those are stories for another blog post.

I leave you with the final product as it looks tonight. I hope you can come over and enjoy the beauty of it in person, the picture just dont show true to life. Thanks for coming back to the blog even though its been a littel dry around here for a little while. Bye

2009-05-06T10:33:00.000-06:00

Brittany tried to cut her finger off last night so I had to tale her
to hospital... she's going to be ok

Yearbook and other awesome pictures.

2009-05-03T10:57:00.004-06:00

Bryce and Eddie Summer of 1991 (8 and 9 years old)

Bryce and Eddie Spring of 2009 (26 and 27 years old)

A boy and his dog... I think its an awesome picture.

Same picture only now Brittany is driving the 4 wheeler

He is such a Regal dog.

Busted Diggin'!

New Patio

2009-05-02T08:28:00.005-06:00

Some of you know that Brittany and I tore down our old gazebo,

and are now rebuilding a better one. The pictures from the tear down can be seen here. Brittany will have lots of photos of the construction and the final product, but I wanted to post a teaser picture for now, so here it is:

Swine Flu and Medicine

2009-04-30T07:24:00.004-06:00

*warning, this post is long and contains a lot of links, please read them*

Recently my beautiful niece London has delt with a cold/lung situation/ear ache. In other words, she's sick.

Recently the "Swine Flu" has struck fear in the life of millions. It has even killed 1 or more people.

Recently my brother wrote about his thoughts on using medicines to treating sick babies, and the threat to their immune system.

Recently my wife and I spoke about using medicines and vaccines on our potential children.

Here are some of my thoughts:

People smarter than me all over the world are doing things greater than I ever will. One of those things is create medicines that cures illnesses. People used to get sick and DIE all the time. Example one, the plague. Since then we, as humans, have learned all sorts of things about how to be healthy, how not to get sick. One of those things is to use vaccines that help create immunity from deadly diseases. While not creating 100% immunity, they do work more often than not. I am a living example of a vaccines working to allow me not to be killed.

This morning I woke up ready to explore google. Here is a story I like. "Saying 'No' to immunization". It talks about people no longer immunizing for whooping cough. And Whooping cough actually making a come back. Some people think using the immunization will cause autism. Recently "Judges Find No Evidence Of Autism Risk From Vaccines" .

The "swine flu" is serious and its happening, and a lot of people are scared. "They" are advising "us" not to travel to Mexico, some are wearing those little face masks. Some places are canceling high school sports . (Are you kidding me?!) Some people are irrational. Yes, its a new flu. But its still the flu. Don't want to get sick? Wash your hands. Don't kiss people with the flu. Be healthy, eat right, and quit worrying. Unless you are a baby, or an old person, you'll probably fight off the swine flu just fine. (In case you are wondering, you can still eat bacon if you like.)

This kind of fear is the same thing that leads people to do things like claim fake religious beliefs to avoid the mandatory shots to enter the public school system. Don't do this people. Here's the break down:

Disease runs rampid kill thousands
Science creates an immunization
Everyone gets immunized
Disease virtually drops off the earth, exists only where the vaccines isn't present
A few decide there is no longer a threat of getting sick
A few are paranoid the vaccine is causing other illnesses
Many people quit getting immunized
1 person picks up the disease, on a humanitarian mission to some 3rd world country.
That person starts infecting people both not immunized and immunized (because the immunization doesn't mean you cant get sick, it just tries to help)
Everyone now gets sick and everyone dies. Or we move the moon.

I don't know about you but I like earth. I don't want to move to the moon. A cool place to visit maybe, but I don't want to live there.

Ok, so what are my thoughts exactly? Immunize your children people, its a far greater risk of getting sick than any other option by not immunizing. Do we as people need a medicine for every little illness we pick up? No. We have these awesome things called white blood cells that fight and kill the bugs that wish to live inside us. Do we need to go see our doctor every time we get sick? No, just if you have been sick for more than 2 weeks and aren't getting better. OR if you can see your bone sticking through your skin, that's a good time to go see your doctor. Any doctor will do actually. Should we worry about the "swine flu"? No, just use caution, but panic is not necessary. Lastly, there is no miracle pill. Medicine can help us get better. Use it when you need it, not when you want it. (including dieting, steroids, and debt relief). Want to be healthy? Eat right, exercise, pray to and believe in God, and do right by others. Have fun, and above all, which has been a theme in my life for that last couple of days, own up to your responsibilities. Your character as a person defines who you are. The things you would do and say in front of your mother, or grand mother, are the things you should aways do and say.

I shall now step down from my soap box.

Requests

2009-04-18T08:24:00.003-06:00

Today I would like to reach into the mail bag and respond to a question by a faithful reader of the blog. I have to be overly honest. I don't get many requests, but I like it when I do. So, I try to respond to them when I can. Today's topic is about the movie "Fireproof".

Many of my blog followers also follow other blogs who have recently posted about this movie, and their comments are all great. I agree with all of those comments. But, as the requester of this topic has already read those comments I would like to approach my comments about the movie differently. The request was for me to talk about what I think of the movie Fireproof. In one word... Inspiring. The movie is about a couple who is married, but are struggling to make any sort of connection. The problem is they, mostly the husband, don't understand what love is. My wife hit it on the head when she mentioned her favorite part was when the husband is talking with his dad, and he suddenly realizes what love is all about. The words that stop him in his own tracks are, "How can I love someone who constantly rejects me?"

Ok, so because the movie is about this marriage I think we all understand how he must love his wife because he loves her, not because there is some sort of benefit for him for loving her. And in the movie the husband kneels down with is father and accepts God as his personal savior. I thought this part was slightly brushed over. It was an important thing that happened to him, and the movie did show how his relationship with Jesus Christ altered his life and his marriage for the better. I felt like it didn't really explain who God is, and why he loves us.

Every day, all the time, people reject God, brush him off, push him away, or simply forget about him. Yet, he loves us, and is always willing to have us back. Gods example of love is how we should all approach our marriage. It is not easy to always put your lover first, and it is exponentially difficult when we feel rejected by that person. We are not perfect, and we have all failed, and we will fail again. Marriage is not about being perfect all the time. Perfect marriages and hardly perfect. A "perfect" marriage is one that picks its self up after it stumbles, brushes its self clean and continues on. Dwelling on the stumble its self is what can hurt a marriage. Brittany and I have disagreements, and arguments (sorry honey for telling everyone!) But its not winning/losing arguments that helps our marriage. Its not about who is wrong and who is right. Its about being willing to discuss whats happening and reach an agreement for what we need to do to adjust so that it doesn't happen again.

God always listens to us, and is always willing to forgive us, if we just ask. When I do something wrong I know my wife will forgive me, if I sincerely ask. Most times I have a hard time getting my pride out of the way to ask, but when I do, we are always able to reach harmony again. I think Christians, non-Christians, and non believes all have this problem. Pride. Marriage is the most humbling thing I have ever been through. Every day. If we can humble ourselves to God, to our spouse, to our family and friends, enemies, strangers, I think that is the key. The husband in the movie finally was humbled when he realised what love was really all about, and until we are able to put our self second to the ones we love, we will never truly reach that harmony.

That's my take. As I reread this I realise there is so much more to be said about the movie and about the concepts I talk about. But that's my take on it for now.

Easter was a success!

2009-04-13T09:36:00.003-06:00

What did you do for Easter weekend?

Brittany and I started early on Good Friday, which is nicely named Good Friday. Its simple. We went to dinner at a local resturant called Rib City. It was great. The food was good, the service was good, and Brittanys favorite part was the chocolate store next to the resturant where she was able to get chocolate covered strawberries. Later that night Mike and Desi came over and we played up some mean guitar hero. Mike rocks at guitar hero. This was also the night we learned that Desi is getting tatoos. Birds, sparrows, on her feet.

Saturday Craig was eager to help tear down the old gazeebo. He was so eager he called and woke us up at 8:30am. The weather was holding, so we went into go mode, and got it tore down. (Brittany has pictues Ill post them soon.)

After a nap or two, we got some dinner and watched the embarassing Jazz lose to The Golden State Warriors. We then met up with Bryce and Samantha and went bowling. I rocked! I bowled the best for the most part. Bryce was close behind, he did win one game, and Brittany and Sam had there own little sub competition going on. I think Brittany won, based on the fact that she is my wife, so this story is always slanted toward our greatness. We bowled until about midnight, then we called it an evening.

Sunday we woke up to the birds chirping and the sund shining. It was going to be a high quality Easte day. We visited the Kerrs at noon for about an hour, and then we drove to Craig and Beckahs house for some awesome burgers grilled by Craig the Great. Charcol grilling tastes so much better than gas grilling. After pictues with London of her first easter, and a little play time Brittany and I went back to the Kerrs.

When we arrived at the house we were met with a badmittin setup. The 6 of us (Brittany, Eddie, Chad, Debbie, Mike, and Desi) all practiced batting the little birdie around until it was time for some fierce gaming. I don't remember who played or who won, but Im sure I did great. We had some great Brisket that Chad made, and then it was back to killing it up on the birdie field, is that was a badmittin field is called? It should be. We played until it was dark, and then we went home.

It was a great Easter, it was a success. Until next year, I guess I wont have any more easter stories.

Easter!

2009-04-08T08:38:00.002-06:00

What are your plans for Easter? Im looking for something fun to do, so maybe if your plans are fun, Ill crash your celebration.

Happy Birthday to me

2009-04-06T09:13:00.000-06:00

leave a comment if you want to say happy birthday to me

Sent from my iPhone

Did some baby sittin'

2009-03-31T06:14:00.003-06:00

This last weekend we had our baby niece over for baby sittin'. Brittany did all the hard work, diapers, feeding, crying, etc. And I had all the fun. Brittany took some pictures, but so did I. So I am posting the pictures I took here. I myself think the lighting was awesome!

I am Husband

2009-03-27T09:58:00.005-06:00

I usually don't like reading these type of blogs, let alone adding them to my list of blogs I recommend, but I stumbled across this guys blog and I like it. I also think everyone should read it. Husbands, wives (specially wives named Brittany Greenwood), sons, daughters, dogs, frogs, etc... It is:

http://www.iamhusband.com/

Go check it out. My favorite idea so far from this is Waffles and Spaghetti. I am also adding it to my list here on the left hand side.

Follow Up and more...

2009-03-26T07:26:00.002-06:00

This picture from my last post is from an event at the Grand America Hotel for the ACS convention in Salt Lake City, Ut. ACS is the America Chemical Society. These people make watching golf on a Sunday aftertoon extremly exciting. I have to give them credit though, because they are aware of how stiff they are and how awful Chemistry really is, I know because most of the week-long meeting was about how to make Chemistry more teachable at the highschool level.

Do you remember you High school chemistry class? Im sure you hated it. I never took chemistry because I remember my sister and brother hating it so much. I had the option of taking Chemistry OR Physics. I took Physics.

Anywho, back to the follow up. The picture I took is from my view of the stage while I was running camera. The event was an awards dinner, so my job was to point the camera at the award winner as they came up to the stage (from back stage). All the award winners already knew they were winning the award. This was just the presentation. The view my camera picked up was on screen for about 2 seconds, and then they would switch to another camera. We repeated this for about 72 award winners. The event was produced by Webb AV, but they hired me to run camera through the Grand America. So, I didn't get to charge my "free lance" rate, I just had to come into work like normal, and then pretend to be a WEBB guy.

That job was on Tuesday. Wednesday, I worked for Cornerstone Technologies (another AV company in town). This time I did get to charge my "free lance" rate. I was simply a unload/setup/general labor type guy. It was my first time working with Cornerstone I am hoping to be able to work with them again, so I was on my best behavior and worked very hard. It was a good thing too, because the main guy in charge noticed and told me he like my work ethic and would recomend me to work more with Cornerstone. The event is up at The Canyons in Park City, Ut. I will go back up there Friday night to help tear down.

camera man

2009-03-25T09:22:00.000-06:00

this was my view of the stage as I was running camera for an event at
the grand America hotel

My Brother

2009-03-20T10:24:00.005-06:00

My brother, Craig, got a new job today. Its such good news that I was inspired to write a poem.

My Brother

My Brother is older than me,
My Brother is wise
His brain is huge in size.

My Brother is not short
My Brother is not tall
He is not very skinny or fat at all.

My Brother is funny
My brother is smart
He likes to play but he also works hard.

My Brother is Craig
My Brother is "Rock"
Every day he takes his dog for a walk.

My Brother has a baby
My Brother has a wife
If you ask me, hes got a good life.

My Brother

Summer of the Ed, a vow.

2009-03-18T10:56:00.005-06:00

Today I woke up early so as to actually get to work on time. 5:20am the alarm went off, again, after the snooze was used twice. My back is sore, my hamstring is tight, my toe has a blood blister. Basketball is a fun sport to play. Today is the 3rd day in a row of 6 more to come that I will be getting up and going to work on time. No days off in between. And no days off at all for another 11 days. 14 days straight of workin' hard for my money. I was told this year was going to be a slower year. My hours are down, so I'm finding every little chance to make a little extra. But I don't complain much, cause I know that its all worth it. Nice house, newer cars, toys. Today another opportunity presented itself. This time, the work will bring me to church instead of take me away. And get paid? Hallelujah!

Ive been planning for extra time off, finally a year with some Saturday and Sundays off. I know I wont have every weekend off, but more than normal. Camping is going to fill in those days. We bought a new pop tent trailer. I hope while everyone else is suffering the heat in the city, that I am with my wife enjoying the cool mountain breezes, and warm fires. I am hoping to stink of campfire smoke and river water most Sunday nights.

The bad news. There is always bad news. Working less means less money, yep, that's bad news. But more free time should mean more memories with my wife. After all, that's why I married her, to make memories. Shes good at making memories, and its usually fun.

More bad news. I've starting making all these glorious plans in my head for the summer to come, yes, I have prematurely gotten my hopes up. I found out today that Little America is going to take advantage of the poor economic situation to prepare for the future. What does that mean? Tear down; Rebuild. Yep, they are going to (not 100% finalized) rebuild a new, bigger, fancy ballroom (meeting space). That means jobs for people, construction workers, designers, painters, electricians, and yup you guessed it, AV guys. Intelligent lighting systems, premier audio systems, IT routing, fiber optics, etc... Good news, maybe not such a slow year, maybe I will still get paid the same as I am used to. It also means that any business that is booked at the Little America is going to be rerouted to the Grand America. A detour if you will. Which means my AV crew will be handling the AV needs. Oh boy! Yes, double the work. Maybe. Probably. Bad news, the free time is going to get squished again. I don't know for sure, but maybe.

I guess in a time when lots of folks are begging for work and families are struggling to make ends meet I should be happy, no grateful, for a job. I am, I really am. But is it so bad to ask for some consistent days off? Just for 1 summer...

Whitewater rafting,

camping,

summer nights watching movies on the projector outside,

BBQ dinners on the back porch,

walks on the parkway with the dog,

fishing, flip flops,

swimming,

hot dogs,

hiking,

sun burns,

etc,

etc.

Spring Fever

2009-03-16T08:33:00.004-06:00

Eddie has caught a bad case of Spring Fever. I forced Brittany out into the wild for a walk and a breath of fresh air (well, ok Jordan Parkway, and the air was stenched with salty nasty Jordan River water). The weather was so nice this weekend, we just had to take advantage of it. Here are some fun pictures to prove we actually got out.

And this last pictures of Apollo was just so perfect I couldn't not show it to the world. Brittany took all the pictures, thats why she is not in any of them but I assure you she was there.

Oh, and just in case I don't get around to it, Happy St. Patricks day. Did you know Corned Beef is not technically a traditional Irish dish?

still working on the bathroom

2009-03-12T21:35:00.001-06:00

New Email

2009-03-12T09:54:00.003-06:00

If I know your email address I will be sending you an email with the new email address you can get a hold of me. If you want me to add your email to my contact list please leave me a comment letting me know you are interested and we will find away to privatly exchange information. Sorry about the troubles. I hope everyone will still be able to email the people they want to email

OOPS!!!! Email

2009-03-12T08:55:00.003-06:00

Okay, I made a very elementry mistake. I am embarrassed to inform you, but it is necessary. I deleted my whole email account when I deleted ed'WORD' mobile. So, I will be haveing a new email address. I will inform your of it when I get one.

ed'word' mobile shuts down and other tidbits

2009-03-12T07:48:00.005-06:00

After Craig, and others, moaned and groaned long enough I've finally decided to shut down Ed'word' mobile due to unpopularity. The complaints were that there were just too many mouse clicks involved. Oh, sure, people click all day for many things, but evidently clicking one little link to see fun little pictures is just one click too many for a single day. I know there weren't always new pictures there to see, but to that I ask how many of you are actually updating your blogs daily??? So I will not have a seperate blog for fun little pictures. Ill just do both here at this page. Let the people rejoice...

In other news, Brittany and I bought a pop-tent trailer. We are very excited. Again, Ill let Brittany post the pictures and tell the story. But if she doesn't do it soon, I am going to revoke her blogging privlages, cause she has been totally slacking on the the whole blog thing.

We are accepting invitation and applications for camping trips this summer. If you would like to go camping please let us know when and for how long. We would like to make this year a record number of camping trips for the Greenwoods. We love to camp, and we would love to camp with you! So far we have May 1st and 2nd booked.

I have been working on the second bathroom for a little while now. Fundage and lack of time has slowed the project, but I was able to lay the tile and grout yesterday with the help of my dad. These projects are so much easier when I have help. Thank you Dad, it was great.

Mother nature is thinking about starting to get warm here in Salt Lake, I am so excited I can't wait for it to finally happen. I have hopes and dreams that I am excited to see get squashed by not having enough time or money to actually see happen. It will be good fun.

Work has been slow. Starting to see the effects of the down turned economy. Ive been trying to pick up extra work here and there as much as possible. On one hand it is sure nice to have a relaxed work week, where we aren't running around like our heads chopped off, but when there isn't work to do, it makes it hard to stay motivated. And of course hard to make money.

Starting to hit the gym a little more regularly, not as mush as I would like. But its hard to be motivated when there are so many things going on. I am feeling pretty good about the work outs though. I've also been able to start playing basketball a little bit again. There is this family of brothers that plays down at the rec center. Most of them are pretty good shooters, but not necessarily very good at basketball. It makes for a good pick up game, but I am used to a little bit better competition.

please leave a comment

2009-03-09T10:09:00.001-06:00

stash or no stash? haha!

my job today

2009-03-09T10:08:00.001-06:00

clean this mess of wires

Home

2009-03-05T07:36:00.003-07:00

Well,

Im home from vacation. I survived Vegas. Brittany will be posting pictures and telling the stories, but for now we're happy to be home. It kind of stinks to leave 70 degree weather and come home to snow, but its so nice to be home.

I had never been to and experienced Las Vegas, so it was something that had to be completed to be able to call myself an American, I guess? My take away is that it was fun to see, but I have no real draw to ever go back. Don't get me wrong, we had a blast. We saw a show, we rode on rides, we saw some really cool hotels and architecture, but the dirt and grime and ick and sin that is Vegas is just too much for it to be a desireable place to spend a great deal of time.

My favorite food was from a restaurant called El Diablo. It was Mexican food. BEST steak tacos ever.
My Favorite Hotel was Ceasers Palace, I can not believe how HUGE that place was. I cannot believe they had a blackjack table with a $100 minimum bet.
Favorite moment was the view atop "The Hotel" at Mandalay Bay
Least Favorite was the pain from the walking and walking.

We didn't DO a lot in Vegas, but we SAW a lot. It was a wonderful Vacation and Brittany and I had a great time together. I think that was the best part. Just being away from reality with my wife for a while.

Well, its back to Utah, back to work, back to real life. Have a good day!

in vegas

2009-03-03T15:01:00.001-07:00

for Ashli

in vegas

2009-03-02T23:18:00.001-07:00

for craig

in vegas

2009-03-01T19:34:00.000-07:00

vacation

2009-02-28T09:09:00.000-07:00

We're stating at the Oasis in Mesquite Nevada today. Brittany is off
at her conference this morning, I'm trying to stay busy, I forgot to
pack underwear so I'm going to be heading to a walmart in just a
minute. The weather is so nice.

SNAP

2009-02-25T15:05:00.003-07:00

OK, so todays poll question asks if you can snap. (If you havne't taken the poll, scroll to the top of this page and answer the question.) I want to know a little more detail from those of you who can snap.

1. Do you use your thumb and middle finger, or thumb and ring finger? thumb and index finger?2. When you snap, does the sound come from the rubbing of the thumb and finger together or the finger violently slapping against the fat of your palm (located at the base of your thumb)

3. Can you snap with both hands or just one?

4. How often would you say you actually snap?

5. How many times can you say and/or spell the word snap before it loses all meaning?

Super Powers!!!

2009-02-25T12:09:00.004-07:00

Craig, although he may overthink many things hit this one square on the head, for me anyway. If I were going to have a super power it would be this "jumping" through a worm-hole ability. Check it out. If I can see it, I can instantly jump there. I can't jump forward or backword in time, but I can instantly just snap from one location to another, as long as I can see it. This would include pictures. So, if I saw a picture of New York City, I could just to that specific place in New York City. Think of the possibilities.

If I wanted to rob a bank, I could easily jump into the vault and back out of the vault.
Money not your thing? Ok, If I wanted to save a little old lady from a burning building, I could jump to her location, grab her, and jump the both of us back to safety, instantly. Well not instantly, but in the blink of an eye. Don't want to save people? cool, ok what do you want to do? See the world? maybe you'de like to go to the top of the Eifel Tower, or to the Top of Kings peak without actually climbing a mountain, or take a ride the bullet train in Japan, but don't have the money to travel. Well now you don't need money to travel, just find a picture in a magazine or on the internet, and boom, your jump there. Want to fly? Jump yourself into the sky and let your self free fall, jump back to safety at the last second!

Weeknesses? You have to be able to see it to jump there. Thats really about it.

It doesn't really mess with physics, as long as you're ok with the idea of ripping a hole in space and traveling through it to another hole.

Yes, the movie Jumper all about this super power. I think its very cool. Go and watch it. In the movie the villan was able to stop the "jumper" by holding him with electric cables. I don't know why that stops you from jumping but it did. Thats ok. It was a fun movie. And thats the super power I want to have.

Super Power

2009-02-24T11:11:00.003-07:00

After a lot of thought and debate I think I finally decided what super power I would want if I could have one.

I know that it isn't possible, and I know that its not techinically morally right to have super powers, but my questions for you are these:

1. If you could have a super power, what would it be?
2. If you DID have a super power, would you tell anyone?
3. What would you do with your super power? Steal money? spy on people? save lives? Be a hero? Be a villan???
4. What are the down sides to your super power? Do you have a weakness, like kryptonite or an achillies heel?
5. Would have a disguise and if so what would your name be? (spiderman? magnet-o? Cyclops?)

My wife once said that if she could be invisible she wouldn't use it to be a "fly on the wall" meaning she doesn't really want to know what people are saying behind her back.

Ive thought about invisibilty a lot. I've always thought it would be cool. But its really kind of a useless power. Let me explain. First, are you invisible and nothing else? Meaning if you were wearing clothes the clothes would just float. Everything you grabbed would still be visible. OR if everything you touch would become invisible, wouldn't that mean that just by the fact of standing on the earth everything would be invisible? Or can you choose, by focusing on certain things that you are touching you can turn them invisible. Would your invisibility be limited or would it be infinatly permeable? Invisibility sounds really cool, but it seems to be a little useless to me. I mean if only yourself is invisible you would have to walk around naked everywhere, which means you are pretty lame in the winter, and you couldn't hold anything. There isn't much you could actually do. I guess you could spy on the girls/boys dressing room in middle school and have a lot of giggles, but eventually you would end up in detention.

Flying sounds fun, but what good can you really do with flying?
Super strength would get you pretty far, but eventually you would be found out, and someone somewhere would find a way to contain you.
Time travel although sounds just about perfect, but stopping time? really? I mean even for a super power that sounds pretty far fetched.
Regeneration would be pretty good, but again, how much good can you really do with it? I guess you could be a super awesome fireman and save lots of kitties and old ladies. Im not sure if regeneration means you would be able to live forever? Living forever could become really awful, just ask the Tuck Everlasting people.
There are lots of possibilites when it comes to super powers. Its really up to your imagination.

So tell me what you would do. Tell me yours and I'll post mine after I hear from you.

Larry H. Miller Dies

2009-02-21T14:06:00.000-07:00

Well, its a sad day in Utah for anyone who is a Jazz fan, or for some reason enjoyed buying cars from a Larry H Miller dealership.

The owner of the Jazz and other sports franchises in Utah, as well as the owner of several Megaplex theaters, car dealerships, etc, etc. died yesterday due to complications with diabeties.
A few weeks ago they amputated his legs, and as of yesterday they removed him from dialisis.

The man was an icon in Utah, known for saving the Jazz from moving away. There is a pretty good article about him at the Salt Lake Tribune, here.

Last night Brittany and I watched a movie at the District Megaplex. There was no notice of anything changing, it was business as usual. I expect thats how the public will see this event, but its scary to think what might happen to this mans legacy if his children want to change things.

This gives the Jazz a pretty good reason to go ahead and win an NBA championship this year though, so lets see what happens.

For Craig

2009-02-19T20:49:00.000-07:00

Craig, you must go see this NOW!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PNpelsDXQrU

ed'WORD' Mobile

2009-02-19T16:56:00.003-07:00

Don't forget I am now posting quick little pictures at ed'WORD' mobile. Click to see some cool little pics. You can also access this page from the links on the left hand of you screen.

NIECES!

2009-02-17T14:12:00.002-07:00

I photoshopped a picture of my nieces for my desktop and I thought I would share. You are welcome to right click on it and save it for yourself. Not much to update on, I did go snowboarding this last weekend and had a blast. Brittany has pictures. She might post more details from that day.

ed'WORD' expanding

2009-02-12T15:00:00.001-07:00

Due to popular request and an overload of fan mail I am expanding the ed'WORD' blog. The theme here at ed'WORD' is "words about eddies life". These are my thoughts, my feelings, my ideas, but mostly updates in my life concerning me and my family.

I realized I need to use the power of the iphone EVEN more, because my wife doesn't have to deal with my playing with it enough as it is. SO, here is it...

MOBILE BLOGGING!

Thats right I said it. You are going to be able to see images that I am capturing on the go. As I take a picture it will be uploaded to a new blog. I think my fans are really going to enjoy seeing the things I am seeing. There probably will be very little text to read, just an image. Maybe next time you see me you can tell me you saw the same thing I did, and we can talk about it. The new expanded blog will not be about typing, or feelings, or love, or hate. Just pictures, and maybe a little note to explain. Maybe no note at all. So, whats the address? Well click here... no HERE, not here, I ment back <-----there, for the link or, you can point your browser to this address http://edwordmobile.blogspot.com/ I hope everyone enjoys the addition to ed'WORD'

Whats new with Eddie?

2009-02-10T08:11:00.006-07:00

Fostered a dog named Chief for 1 week, couldn't keep him, logistically was too difficult.

Worked a long week at the hotel again. Zimmer Spine was the client, got $100 tip and a nice winter jacket. I ran audio and lighting. The lighting design was one of my better jobs. The first set is a "Tool Time" looking set, they were doing an Extreme Makeover themed meeting. The second is their awards dinner, this is the lighting set I am most proud of.

I've finally started working on the second bathroom at the house painting it white (pinkish hue) and brown. I originally hoped not to take out the sink and toilet for the job, but it looks like I am going to have to do that.
Had an mini disaster at the house that included my work pen being washed with our clothes. Brittany took the most losses. She was a good sport though.
Bought a Green Laser pointer, going to Bryces this week to see if he can make it brighter.
I am officially addicted to Woot this is a very bad thing.
Did you know that George Bush (both of them) has some direct blood lines with Joeseph Smith (the leader of the Mormon church). Trippy! No wonder so many Americans hated the President and so many Utahns love him. My dad told me about it.