Seth and Meg

We Live!

2011-01-19T13:25:00.000-07:00

Best Books

2010-10-08T05:20:00.000-06:00

My sister sent me an email last night asking if I had any audiobooks I could recommend to her for her 20 minute ride to pick up her kids from school. Here's what I'd recommend to her or anyone else that spends at 20 to 30 minutes a day in the car. (Or, for that matter, anyone that has an ipod and isn't afraid of multitasking while doing other tasks like cleaning the house, cooking, exercising.)

Mornings on Horseback (about Theodore Roosevelt's bringing up years - really good!!)
Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln
Undaunted Courage (Lewis and Clark adventure - so good!)
The River of Doubt: Theodore Roosevelt's Darkest Journey (get the abridged version so you don't have to listen to all the botany stuff)
The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair that Changed America
Into Thin Air
A Thousand Splendid Suns (depressing but interesting)
Seabiscuit
The Help
The Hiding Place
Harry Potter books
The Other Side of Heaven
Hunger Games
Catching Fire

Classics:
The Great Gatsby

Spiritual:
Yearning for the Living God

Excellent Self Help:
Difficult Conversations
Loving What Is

If someone asked you this question, what would you recommend?

I like to eat and dance and play

2010-10-03T20:13:00.001-06:00

I wear Easter pajamas all year round. And I love my rocking horse! Whee!

I really get into my eating. It's fun. Don't bother me.

This sucks.

Don't judge us by our nasty deck and dead grass. It's not our house yet.

Brought to you by Maxwell Lewis.

Fall Color Tour

2010-09-26T06:46:00.001-06:00

I'm bored. I own this place. We need some fresh air. Let's go!

Ooooooo. Look at all the pretty trees and horses. I like it.

This is Angel's Hollow where we had dinner. Best burger I've had in a while. The owner, Lee, is loud, unique and friendly.

This is where we stayed, as usual. Thanks Eric and Debbie!

Yogurtland at Home!

2010-09-26T06:20:00.000-06:00

Max doesn't ever ask to go to Yorgurtland. He doesn't see the point. He can have Yogurtland whenever he wants!

Six little chicks

2010-09-08T22:46:00.001-06:00

Max and I got to spend 10 days in Virginia with my sister Rachel and her family and my sister Ash. We had the best time. We ate and laughed and laughed and ate. Max had the time of his life and never wanted to leave. He has had a hard time adjusting to one mommy and no brothers and sisters.

Rachel and Troy went to Aspen for a vacation so I had six kids for five days. They were so good. I miss them already.

Rachel and Ashley with the two smallest of the crew.

Max drove cars and played with legos and went in and out of their toy cabin to his hearts content.

Ash and Max

Stick bug I accidentally leaned against...yuck.

We went to a farm down the road from their house. Wes played Vanna and showed us the goats.

We saw the cutest piglets. They aren't as cute when they grow up.

Max and sheep. He kept petting it until another sheep came up and started going to the bathroom right beside this one. I wisked him away much to his dismay.

Ash works in DC and I got to ride the metro in one night to see her.

Such a pretty office lady. She gets serious work done.

This is the view from her office

We went to an awesome restaurant called Founding Farmers. We got sucked into the shopping and almost missed our reservation. We had to run for eight blocks to make it. When we got there the hostess saw us sweating and nervously/awkwardly asked us if we ran there. We wiped our brows with kleenex and then proceeded to dig in to the most delicious night of food and laughs.

We walked by the White House on the way home. Well Hello Mr. Obama.

We missed Seth. He stayed behind to work. When he picked us up at the airport Max didn't know what to do. He looked down and wouldn't look at Seth's face for a long time. When he got over that he hugged Seth and patted him on the back over and over. He kept looking at his face and remembering his daddy. Such a sweet boy. It was the best trip. I can't wait until next time!

House Fire!

2010-08-27T00:00:00.001-06:00

i witnessed an amazing spectacle today. i had some home showings up in superior and had some extra time prior to it so i was going to get my hair cut. as i got closer to my destination i noticed a huge plume of black smoke going up into the air and grew very curious. it seemed like a fire, and it seemed to be in the same complex where i was going to show a house. in fact, it ended up being almost right across the street. i forwent the haircut and decided to check it out. and wow! incredible. i have to admit that i wasn't as horrified as i should have been. it was just so fantastic to see though. and i could tell everyone that was there was experiencing the same emotions as i. people were excitedly jabbering and taking photos and such. it was really something. there were pops and explosions and lots and lots of smoke. and the flames would just engulf things. the building just got eaten away right in front of my eyes. in fact, i believe three units were completely destroyed and quite a few others were severely damaged. the heat was so intense that the windows in a nearby unit melted.

nobody was killed other than some girls who sustained some smoke damage to their lungs. i believe the fire started in their unit and they were home alone at the time. the older sister saved her little baby sister's life (2 years old). thank god for that.

A Smattering of Photos

2010-08-07T11:41:00.001-06:00

We've been keeping too many of our photos to ourselves lately. In an effort to be more generous, here are lots of them all at once to satisfy your senses.

I like this one. We took it in Florida at a Columbian bakery shop. Look at all the colors. And look at the excited look on Meggy's face.

Max is going to be our future tennis star. He looks at everything with such curious eyes. Agassi in the making.

This is the birthday party for our niece Lilli. It was at Julia DeKoevend Park in Littleton. They just put in a beautiful new playground but it's right downwind from some juicy portapotties. (I know it's not spelled that way but it's messier so I'm leaving it that way for effect.). And I mean J U I C Y.

Kinda like this guy. J U I C Y.

Cute and eligible. No, she doesn't live in Parker and doesn't even like Parker.

Hi!

H I !!!!!!

Mike, Troy and I went fishing up in Estes Park. Mike and I didn't catch anything put Troy did, of course. He said that when he started fly fishing he didn't catch anything for the first TWO years. WHAT? Why did you keep doing it?

A river runs through it. And up into my waiters because they weren't tall enough. Brrrr.

We took Max on a pony ride.

Just kidding, it was a doggy.

Weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!!

Ruff.

Wag the tail.

Take a breather.

How does Mike have so many cool hats? Jealous.

Cute smile babe.

Cute scowl Jord.

My two lovers!

Meg's true love.

Mama's lil' helper.

Fun picnic up at Eric and Debbie's cabin after Abigail's birthday.

And that's it folks.

Playin' it Cool

2010-08-07T07:15:00.003-06:00

Mouse Trap House

2010-07-25T21:08:00.001-06:00

We live in a mouse trap house. There were so many mice in this house when we moved in that Meg thought we needed to have traps everywhere. She put one in the pantry and Max found it. Rather, he sat on it. See below. A picture is worth a thousand words.

Max's First Words

2010-07-25T21:00:00.001-06:00

First words: Hi! Bye bye! Uh oh. Doggy. Uh oh. Cookie. Uh oh. Uh oh. Oops.

First sentence: Hi Daddy!

Zoom Zoom

2010-07-25T20:55:00.001-06:00

Hike with Dad and Mom

2010-07-25T20:51:00.004-06:00

A hike in the old stomping grounds. I used to hunt for dinosaur fossils with Greg Gardner out here. We found one, and they named it the Sethosaurus after me.

Glamour Shots

2010-07-22T22:08:00.001-06:00

Good parenting books?

2010-07-12T06:32:00.001-06:00

I'm looking for some good parenting books on toddlers and/or young children. Let me know if you have any suggestions.

Pinkberry

2010-06-12T08:53:00.000-06:00

I waited outside in the cold and rain and wind for like a half hour for some frrrrrrrrozen yogurt last night. I must be crazy. As soon as I stepped inside the wife and baby joined me. The floors were this small pebble composite thing, which was cool. I made the mistake of taking off my flip flop to feel it - sticky sweet! The decor and music are funky. Cool walls, lighting, tables and chairs. After another 15 or so minutes of waiting once we got inside we finally got to the front of the line. The girl behind the counter gave a quick lesson in what it is to be Pinkberry then we sampled the flavors we were curious about. I got chocolate and mango swirled and had them dump a lot of awesome fruit on top (and puffed rice marshmellow things and bits of cheesecake). My wife got pomegranate and passion fruit and s'more fruit on top. Best yogurt we've ever had! The toppings were really fun too. Almost everything you can imagine to choose from. Can't wait to back again but we might wait awhile until the craze dies down. Prices aren't too bad either! Get a medium or a large and split it with your sweetie to save some cash.

I met the one of the owners while standing outside in line. He and his partner own the rights to Pinkberry in Colorado. He said they're opening another store on the 16th Street Mall. I want one at Park Meadows now!

Yelp!

2010-05-30T19:40:00.001-06:00

My friend Sam introduced me to Yelp a while back and we love it. We use it all the time to find new restaurants wherever we are. We found some great little places in Florida while we were there because of Yelp and we continue to use it at home. There's a cool place in Breckenridge called Soupz On we were going to try yesterday but it closes at 6 and we didn't get there in time. Maybe we'll try it tomorrow.

Anyway, check out our reviews any time. Just click on the Yelp gadget on the side of our blog.

Where can I get one of those?

2010-05-26T12:41:00.003-06:00

Meg was carting baby boy around Costco in his car seat in the shopping cart and two people stopped and asked, referring at Max, where they could get one of those. Meg said they were too expensive and got some good laughs.

We Witnessed a Piece of History!

2010-05-16T16:21:00.004-06:00

We had to drive in traffic for half the day but we got to witness the last ever launch of the shuttle Atlantis. After this, there are only two more launches of shuttles before the shuttle launch program is retired. It was thrilling to be there, to see the bright orange glow of the rocket, to see the shuttle launch up into the sky so quickly, to see the smoke, to hear the roar and to hear all of the people lining the shore cheering and clapping.

The reddish orange flow from the rocket flame was so bright. Some of the locals told us about what it's like witnessing a night time launch. It lights up the whole night sky and reflects off the water and apparently is quite a sight. I can imagine!

I was surprised by how quickly the shuttle rocketed up into the sky. It was fast! Before you knew it the whole thing was over and you couldn't even see the shuttle anymore.

She was impressed.

Lots of smoke left behind. Do shuttles have to pass emissions before they can fly?

We heard a lady behind us saying that they had been waiting since 5 am to see the shuttle launch. Guess they wanted to make sure they got a good seat! We got there are 2:10 or so, about 10 minutes before the scheduled launch!

Look at all the people! We heard on the radio that there were a record 40,000 people that came to the cape to see the last launch of the Atlantis. We felt lucky that its launch coincided with our trip so we could be there.

Sea World!

2010-05-16T16:04:00.004-06:00

For me, Sea World is one of those magical places from my youth. I think I was about 10 years old when my family went to Disney and Sea World for the first time. Sea World was the more memorable of the two for me. I couldn't get enough of those flipping dolphins and whale trainers gliding around on the noses of the huge, black and white orcas. What a sight! It was fun to see these huge fish in action again.

There were no trainers riding around on noses this time. The show was a bit tamer, probably because a trainer was killed by an orca in this very pool just a few months ago by one of these very whales!

They are beautiful!

Wow!

The dolphin show was unbelievable. Unfortunately my camera battery died so this was the only shot I got.

This is the view from the balcony of where we stayed for the week.

Where Your Dreams Come True!

2010-05-16T15:47:00.001-06:00

Beach Time!

2010-05-16T15:03:00.005-06:00

We're in Florida this week on vacation. It's been wonderful! We decided to come here because I have some training for work in Orlando, so we thought we'd make a vacation out of it. It's our first big vacation since our honeymoon in the DR two and a half years ago! We were definitely itching for some time on the beach.

We were able to visit quite a few beaches while we were here: Cocoa Beach, Sunset Beach, Clearwater Beach and Honeymoon Island Beach. All gorgeous (but not as gorgeous as the beaches in the DR).

My Sharona

I thought these seagulls were pretty with the black markings. Florida has lots and lots of beautiful birds.

We were able to catch two sunsets. This one was last night on Honeymoon Island.

We witnessed this sunset on Sunset Beach. It was perfect! Watching the sun set over the water on the beach is one of my favorite things in the world!

The Help

2010-05-11T06:06:00.001-06:00

The Help by Kathryn Stockett

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Excellent book. Couldn't put it down. Had to find out what happened to all the characters and what the lady that ate the crappy pie was gonna do to get her retribution.

This book made me think about things I would've never ever thought about and that I can still scarcely imagine. The way blacks were treated until just a few short decades ago. Things are a whole lot now different compared to what they were like then, at least where I come from they are.

I actually picked up this book and physically read it this time instead of listening to it on audio like I usually do. Almost wish I would've been able to listen to this one though so I could've heard the voices of those black maids. This author did such a good job capturing their voices though that it was easy enough to hear them in my head.

View all my reviews >>

Max's favorite pastime

2010-05-09T22:58:00.000-06:00

Our Peanut is 365 Days Old

2010-05-09T22:49:00.000-06:00

The loud birthday song was too much for Max

But he liked the cake

Say Cheese

2010-05-09T22:22:00.000-06:00

I tried to take some photos of Max the other day for his first birthday. He didn't want to cooperate. But he is still cute.

Josh and Emilie Wedding

2010-05-09T21:49:00.001-06:00

My brother Josh and his sweet lady Emilie got married in April. All of my brothers and sisters came into town and it was a party. Max has 20+ cousins just on my side and the kiddies love to get together.

Some of the cousins

My sister Mindy her baby Carter and husband Garrett

Dinner at the church with the two families. Lewis family dinners are always filled, and I mean filled with food. This photo above is of the leftovers after everyone had eaten. That's my kind of dinner.

My aunt Linda, niece Annie and sister-in-law Julie

Sister Ash discussing different aspects of photography with Hannah

Who is the most awkward in this photo?

Em, Ash, Sam, Lilli

Bella, Sam, Lilli, Kerry, Erin

All my brothers and sisters

Max loves weddings

In The Heights

2010-05-07T05:25:00.000-06:00

I adored this show from the opening scene! Never thought I'd say this, but it's got the perfect blend of rap and soaring ballads. Dancing that you can actually relate to. (Yeah, I guess I relate better to hip hop than tap). The characters are lovable and some are hilarious. I was laughing and talking out loud the whole time, much to Meg's delight I'm sure. If I talk out loud during a show, it's a sure sign that I love it. Besides, the guy next to me was chomping on his gum so loudly the whole time I had to in order for Meg to hear me!

Are you moved to tears sometimes, not because you're sad or overly happy, but just for the sheer fact that something you're witnessing is so well done and the people performing are so dang talented? That happens to me sometimes. I just get this overwhelming feeling and want to shout or cry or something because what I'm seeing is so cleverly, beautifully, joyfully executed. All this emotion wells up inside of me and starts leaking out in the form of laughter, a huge grin, tears or me talking out loud to the person next to me! I love seeing people throw everything they have into something and give it all they've got - especially when they're really, really, really talented. That's the way I felt during this show. It all came together really well for me. Best show I've seen in a long, long time!

The Great Bridge

2010-05-06T05:28:00.001-06:00

The Great Bridge: The Epic Story of the Building of the Brooklyn Bridge by David McCullough

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I liked the latter half of this book better than the first. I got tired of the stories of political corruption in New York during that time as well as all the details about the the technical aspects of the construction and lowering of the caissons used for the foundations on the bridge on the New York and Brooklyn sides of the river. At the same time, I don't know how the author could've left much of it out. I guess I wish he would've made a bit more concise for guys like me that just wanna get to the good part.

My favorite part of the book was the characters. Absolutely fascinating men and women. People of such talent, brilliance, and incredible work ethic. These are the people we all lean upon. There are men and women like this in every era. They make our lives better in more ways than we can imagine.

View all my reviews >>

Difficult Conversations

2010-05-06T05:17:00.002-06:00

Difficult Conversations: How to Discuss what Matters Most by Douglas Stone

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Fantastic book. I'm gonna have to read it again and again. Could use the content for an amazing marriage improvement course. I'd sign up.

Lots of practical advice in this book. I loved the role plays. So easy to relate to. One of the best things I learned (or was reminded about) is that you should never blame someone else for a problem but instead find out how each party contributed to the problem and learn to talk it through openly and fairly.

I wish I'd read this book months ago! There are a number of difficult conversations I've had since then that would've gone a lot better. They still would've been difficult, because difficult conversations always are, but I would've been able to handle them more skillfully.

View all my reviews >>

Just Listed!

2010-04-30T13:12:00.000-06:00

6 bedrooms with 7th bedroom on main or study!

http://www.Obeo.com/588212

Brand new flooring! New interior and exterior paint.

http://www.Obeo.com/588215

Awesome mountain views with fully finished walkout basement!

http://www.Obeo.com/593761

Move in ready! Much better than a new home.

http://www.Obeo.com/597200

Professionally finished basement in a pool community!

Fabulous 2 story in the heart of Montclair!

http://www.obeo.com/597998

Very clean 3 bedroom 3 bathroom with large backyard!

Columbine

2010-04-20T20:40:00.001-06:00

A Thousand Splendid Suns

2010-04-18T14:24:00.001-06:00

A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
just got done reading a thousand splendid suns. khaled hosseini is a great author. i didn't enjoy a thousand splendid suns quite as much as i enjoyed his other book, kite runner, but that's probably because i had an easier time relating to the characters in character. having said that, i enjoyed both books very much. the main players in splendid suns were oppressed afghan women. while recounting their stories, the author does an amazing job recounting some of the more important developments in afghan history over the last 30 or so years leading up to september 11 and the aftermath in afghanistan with the u.s. invasion. there's been so much corruption in that country. when you read about the treatment of women, the poverty, the backwardness in the way women were (and are) treated, the rituals, the superstitions, it almost seems like something you'd read in a society that hadn't gone through the enlightenment yet. and in many ways i think they haven't! i hope things are getting better in afghanistan. i hope the taliban never comes back! those poor people deserve good, honest men and women as their leaders. probably would be a lot better off if women took the helm for a while actually.

View all my reviews >>

Columbine

2010-04-11T06:06:00.001-06:00

Columbine by Dave Cullen

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I thought this book would've been easier to read if the author related the story chronologically. That way you would've only had to live through the horror once. He would jump around between the attack itself, the aftermath, leading up the attack, the attach itself again, etc. It was easy enough to follow but I started to dread the parts I knew were going to be about Dylan and Eric. The author related accounts from their videos and their journals, and they were just awful, sick, evil boys. The language was so incredibly course. Not sure why the author felt it was necessary to include so much of that crap. I would've preferred that he filter out more of the language. It was a little over the top. Same with the description of some of the gore. Just a little bit over the top.

In the end, the author did a really good job of proving his point that the media got the story all wrong and of revealing the true nature of the killers.

The trench coat mafia had nothing to do with the massacre. The only reason the killers were wearing trench coats is because they thought they would look cool and they needed something to hide their guns and bombs.

The killers weren't targeting Christians, jocks or blacks. They were
trying to blow up the entire school. Cassie Bernal was not a martyr. There were witnesses, one girl who was hiding under the same table as her, that corroborate the fact that she didn't say a word before she was shot. She didn't have time to say anything and she wasn't even asked. There's also surveillance video in the library. The publisher of the book about her supposed martyrdom, "She Said Yes", knew about the different accounts and chose to publish the book anyway. There actually was another girl that mentioned something about God but it went something like this. Dylan was going to shoot her but then didn't and as he walked away she said something like "Oh God, Oh God, please." He overhead her and turned back and said, "You believe in God?" She hesitated and nervously confirmed that yeah, she believed in God. He didn't pursue any further. Some of the people in the library confused this girls' comments with Cassie and that's how the whole mix up started. When the girl that actually made these comments came out with the truth she was scorned by the religious zealots who had made Cassie into a martyr and were practically worshipping her. Nothing was going to take their story away from them. Who cares if it's been proven that it's not true. The church where Cassie went still refuses to admit that Cassie wasn't really a martyr. They're gonna bring that story with them to the grave.

Nothing made these boys snap. They weren't bullied anymore than any other high school student. In fact, THEY were the bullies. They were sick, evil and miserable. Eric was actually a psychopath. That's really what he was. Dylan was suicidal and mislead. Had he chosen different friends, he would've never became a killer. Eric would've ended up a killer regardless. Nothing could've stopped him. Had he not committed the atrocities at Columbine, he would've found some other way to terrorize our society, perhaps on an even grander scale.

View all my reviews >>

The Making of an Easter Bunny!

2010-04-04T14:01:00.004-06:00

Good things happen in the Spring

2010-03-31T22:00:00.000-06:00

This little guy will be one at the end of the month.

On a walk at Wash Park.

Reading with Daddy. Max loves 5280 magazine.

Cutest legs

and eyelashes

Max loves to grab everything and recently discovered the joy of unrolling the toilet paper. I can't keep him out of the bathroom.

My brother Josh and his fiancee Emilie are getting married in April! Yay!

Max's girl cousins

Dinner in our not so large kitchen

Two fisted cracker stuff

We spent sometime in the mountains over spring break. It was nice to get away for a few days. I snowboarded for the first time in almost three years and it was a mixture of embarrassing and awesome. There was a blizzard the night before so there was tons of powder. I fell pretty much every time I got off the lift for at least the first five runs. It was a beauty of a day and I loved being outside. Seth had the week off from teaching seminary and was giddy like a school girl. So was I.

Just Listed!

2010-03-30T13:07:00.000-06:00

Newer home! 42K in upgrades! http://www.Obeo.com/589572

Primo unit! Really cute and updated! http://www.Obeo.com/588639

Great 5 bedroom ranch home with finished mother-in-law basement! http://www.Obeo.com/589275

Goodreads

2010-03-28T07:22:00.001-06:00

I'm on a roll today. Product endorsement number three. Another one of my favorite websites is Goodreads.com. I LOVE to read. I wish I could read a couple books a week. I love to read because you get to experience and learn about things in a pretty personal way that you would never nave been able to experience otherwise.

If you love to read too you should join Goodreads.com. If you're already a member but don't use it, you should start using it. Hint, hint.

On Goodreads you can keep track of all the books you've read, all the ones you're reading, and those you'd like to read. When you're done with a book you can update the date you finished it and you can add a product review if you'd like. Belonging to Goodreads is like belong to a virtual book club without any strings attached. You get to share your views and experiences and see what others are reading too. I've really enjoyed it. If you're already on Goodreads and we're not friends yet, send me an invitation.

Happy reading!

Toodledo

2010-03-28T07:12:00.001-06:00

Here's another endorsement. Toodledo.com. If you don't have a good way of organizing tasks and projects, this is the program for you. It's free and extremely easy to use. It'll sync with your iPhone or other smart phone. Put your grocery list on it. Create a honey-do list. Keep track of restaurants you want to go to and check them off one by one. Write down a list of all the errands you need to run so you don't forget anything important. If you don't have a smart phone then you can still use this program and simply print off the task lists before you leave the house.

Try it out when you get a chance. If you're anything like me, you'll love it!

Product endorsement for LDSJournal.com

2010-03-28T07:03:00.002-06:00

If you like journaling and want to make it easier and more convenient, check out ldsjournal.com. Here's a quick list of some advantages of this free product.

You don't have to pull out your journal anymore. It's available online from any computer, wherever you are.
Private and secure. Password protected. No one can snoop and read your journal. (That's actually never been a concern for me, but it's still a nice feature.)
Backed up. Can't get destroyed or lost.
When you've written enough entries you can order a book. I haven't tried that feature yet but I'm excited about that option.
Typing is so much faster and easier than writing. You'll end of documenting a lot more of your life if you do in on the computer.
It's searchable! There are also some great index capabilities that are built into the website.

Team of Rivals

2010-03-25T20:29:00.001-06:00

Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln by Doris Kearns Goodwin

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
It made me laugh. It made me cry. My heart rejoices to know that such a man lived on this planet. I believe there are other men like him who have lived and who will yet live; however, most of them will not be able to achieve the greatness of character in this life that Lincoln was able to achieve in his. They will reach it eventually though and that's one of the reasons books about men like this move me so. If we will let go and yield to God's plan for us, He will make great men (and women) out of us too.

Lincoln was a political and literary genius. He was masterful in the art of interpersonal relations. His kindness and forbearance were nothing short of phenomenal. I'm sure that most men would've made different decisions at almost every juncture than Lincoln chose to make, and that's precisely what made him so great. He was not impetuous, rash or shortsighted. He saw the beginning from the end and was one of the greatest humanitarians the world has ever known. He was not perfect, but because he was slow to act and quick to think he made far fewer errors than would've otherwise been made.

Lincoln was such a patient and kind husband and friend too. I am the first to admit that I wouldn't have had a tenth of the patience he demonstrated in dealing with difficult people. Even his own wife at times. He was one of the greatest men that ever lived.

View all my reviews >>

Twilight Wanna Be

2010-03-04T19:00:00.000-07:00

The Science of Getting Rich

2010-03-04T07:41:00.000-07:00

The Science of Getting Rich by Wallace D. Wattles

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I LOVED this book! Required reading for every man, woman and child. As soon as Max is old enough I'm going to read it to him. Who needs Mother Goose when you've got Wallace Wattles.

This book is just full from beginning to end of powerful teachings and divine wisdom. It unabashedly touts the benefits power of optimism, belief, faith, hard work, enthusiasm, gratitude, personal magnetism, leadership, progress and personal increase. Full of wisdom and truth. Profound yet simple. Profoundly simple. It teaches you how getting rich, the creative way, is the best thing you can do to help yourself, help your family, help the poor, help everyone around you and make the world a much better place.

One of the best things about this book is that it's short! No rambling. Just the facts without explanation, elaboration or apology.

View all my reviews >>

Atlas Shrugged!!

2010-02-27T06:28:00.002-07:00

Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Meg and I really got into this book. I listened to the whole thing and Meg listened to quite a bit of it with me. I would fill her in on the details that she'd missed. I'd call her and tell her about something crazy that had happened that she'd missed out on and she'd gasp with excitement or surprise upon learning the new detail. I had no idea there would be so much intrigue!

I don't think anyone values intelligence, hard work, achievement and individualism as much as Ayn Rand - at least from the limited amount of authors I've read. I found many of her main philosophies thrilling. They just rang so true. Especially in this day and age of entitlement and mediocrity. The fact that she is so honest and unapologetic to what she believes is refreshing. I can't completely buy into her philosophy of not giving away or receiving anything for free. In the end, we're all beggars.

Ayn's obviously an atheist. She makes that quite clear. I can't say that I blame her, if you know what I mean. I might be too if I didn't know better. But, that's a whole other story. I think if Ayn had spent more time thinking and exploring about religion, the origin of things and the ultimate destiny of man she may have reached different conclusions. She has said that she started writing at age 9 and that she formed the foundation of her philosophies at a very young age and didn't really change them even though she continued studying and learning. Perhaps she was too inflexible on some of the early assertions that she made. Too bad C.S. Lewis and Ayn didn't spend a little more time together. Maybe C.S. could've helped her look at things a little bit differently. But, again, I don't fault her for it. I think her achievements are still very worthwhile. Actually, she said it best when she spoke of Aristotle. She said that there were plenty of faults to his philosophies but other of his works were so masterful that they overshadowed any of his deficiencies. I think her work is significant enough that we can overlook her faults or the errors in some of her philosophies.

I, unlike Ayn, believe in God and in the value of service and sacrifice, though, if we're truly honest about it, we must recognize that everything we do, even if we think we're sacrificing and serving others, is ultimately for our own betterment in some way or we wouldn't do it. And, as the scriptures teach us, the more we do to sacrifice and serve God or others, the more he blesses us. We're always going to be indebted to him. But, still, we don't just live for others as Ayn would detest if we did. We live for ourselves and for our families and for our God. For, those things are all things that in living for, we actually are living for ourselves and our own eternal betterment.

View all my reviews >>

Just Listed!

2010-02-26T10:10:00.002-07:00

Immaculate home at unbelievable price! 5 beds/4 baths & full fin bsmnt! 3-car garage. Great layout & beautiful upgrades.

Hardwoods, corian counters, butler's pantry & formal dining. Media center, vaulted 9' ceilings, new paint! Huge deck & mature landscaping.

http://www.Obeo.com/580572

Great two story with three car garage! On a cul-de-sac. Great mountain views with no neighbors behind. Big flat backyard. Perfect family home.

Finished basement with rec room/surround sound. 5th bed/office. Bay windows! Upgraded master with 5 piece bathroom. Shows really well! Must see!

http://www.Obeo.com/584207

Wonderful views of the front range! Nice two story with four bedrooms up. Lots of space for price. Near schools, pool and shopping. Finished basement. Great deck with big flat backyard.

Will go fast at this price!

Crawling

2010-02-18T14:30:00.000-07:00

It was a long road, but he made it!

Bonus: London Bridge is falling down pose. I could look at those cute buns all day...and I do!

Free Just Listed Email Alerts!

2010-02-13T07:50:00.000-07:00

If you'd like to receive just listed email alerts whenever a property in a neighborhood or area you're interested in goes on the market, contact me with some basic parameters and I'll get it set up for you in a few seconds. No obligation.

Out longer than in

2010-02-08T22:33:00.000-07:00

Max is nine months old! He had a check up last week and got two shots in his cute little legs. He cried so hard it didn't make any noise. It was so sad but I couldn't help but laugh a little. Other than that he is healthy and happy. He is learning to crawl but as of right now he only has reverse down. He backs himself into corners and then cries until someone comes to free him. I love my little Max!

Height 28 7/8 inches 73%

Weight 18 lbs 3 oz 18%

Christmas Time Happenings

2010-01-06T12:55:00.000-07:00

Max loved his first Christmas morning

He didn't really care about the presents but he LOVED the paper and boxes. Eating paper is his favorite thing. Colored wrapping paper tastes even better than normal white paper.

Beautiful cookbook I got from Seth. I can't wait to get my cook on.

Seth got rubber shoe covers...lucky guy.

Some of the Lewis kids in the traditional Christmas morning stair photo. My sisters really love pajamas. Way to rock the bubble gum and plaid girls.

P&F with their candygram. You can't tell by their faces but they were so happy to get it.

Max and his cutest sock monkey

Jordy loves skit in a bag

So does my mom

White elephant exchange. My mom's high school photo. Dad is the lucky winner.

Lewis ladies

We had such a fun Christmas! We love being with our families and remembering the birth of our Savior. Heres to the new year!

Back to School!

2010-01-03T14:59:00.000-07:00

Heading back to early morning seminary tomorrow. I must confess, I haven't enjoyed Christmas break this much since I was a kid! Four and a half months until summer break, but who's counting. :)

Autistic Wonder Boy

2009-12-28T09:58:00.000-07:00

I heard about this boy in a talk at church yesterday. What an inspiration! There's really no excuse for any of us, is there?

A Christmas Eve to Remember!

2009-12-25T06:10:00.004-07:00

Last night was Christmas Eve at Eric and Debbie's. I have great memories of Christmas Eve's at Eric and Debbie's. Debbie's got some serious Christmas spirit and knows how to make it magical, even for the adults! There were lots of goodies and a delicious ham dinner.

Her decorations are beautiful and classy. They set a mood of wonder, reverence and excitement.

The door of Christmas cards, hung with care! Who's that cute family in the middle on the left.

Half of the Jenson family was there to celebrate as well as Debbie's parents, Norm and Jane. Dad and Graham rough housed it up a little.

From left to right: Ellen, Laura, Eden and Brooke.

Christmas is coming and Max is getting fat!

Meg and I love Debbie's style.

"I'm gettin' nuthin' for Christmas. Pbbhttth Pbbhtthh!!"

All of Eric and Debbie's kids that are old enough to play can play the piano.

Look at those pictures on the wall! Love 'em.

You got anything to say Max? What's your talent?

My sister Jeanna headed up a neat Christmas gift for Dad and Mom. Here they are opening the special gift.

Ooooooo, what is it?!

100 Things We Love About You!

It's a hit. Graham wants a closer look. Abigail wants to know what's wrong with Granny.

Eric and Debbie had our name this year. Debbie's a great gift giver. She always gets the perfect thing. We got The Bean Game, The Polar Express with a bonus audio CD and a really nice outfit for Max from Gap.

True to tradition, Debbie read "The Night Before Christmas" to the kids. The kids all gathered around in a circle and Debbie passed out wrapped gifts. As she read the story, each time the word "the" was spoken, the kids had to pass their present to the left. At the end, they got to open the one that last landed in their lap. Trading allowed!

Another great Christmas Eve to remember. Thanks Eric and Debbie!

We Got Pie'd Out

2009-12-24T14:40:00.001-07:00

Last night was pie night at the office. Big snow storm! Lots of traffic! Lots of unclaimed pies! :) We still had a good time though.

Dad and Mom came and snapped a few photos. Dad didn't waste any time getting some pie and drink. He doesn't get to eat junk food very often!

Meg was a huge help. Couldn't do it without her.

Next year we're going to do it before Thanksgiving. Probably the Tuesday before from like 4 to 6 o'clock or something. We'll see.

Merry Christmas everyone. If anyone needs a pie for tonight or tomorrow, you're welcome to stop by the house! We've got lots of extra. :)

Sleigh Rides and Santa!

2009-12-20T07:50:00.001-07:00

Before we take Max out on the town we like to make sure he's real clean. We usually run him through the gentle cycle.

With all the extra Christmas goodies he's been pounding we may have to start running him through the "extra dirty". Meg's telling me there isn't an "extra dirty". Really? Sorry guys, I'm not much of a laundry buff.

One of our favorite Christmas traditions (can it be a tradition if it's only two years old?) is going to the annual Christmas extravaganza at the Lawrences. Lots of delicious food, hot drinks, nice people, a photographer to take your picture by the tree or the fire, a beautiful setting (they have land in Franktown) and even a sleigh ride this year!

Max was a little distracted at fist. We couldn't get him to notice the huge beast next to him.

He finally started getting it.

Here horsey, horsey. Would you like to nibble on my little hands?

He enjoyed his first sleigh ride. He was breathing fast and looking all around. Sure fire signs of a good time in little boy body language.

Wee!

Thanks Lawrences for a great time!

Lots of firsts for Max this year. This is his first encounter with the guy in the red suit.

He looks a little unsure, but he didn't cry.

Now he's just getting curious.

He's thinking about it.

He's going in for the kill!

Ho, ho, ouch!

Merry Christmas everybody!!!

Max Poo

2009-12-20T07:18:00.003-07:00

We just love this guy! He's a lot of work, and his poops are really stinky, but it's all worth it. He's at a really fun age. He's sitting up now, he talks a lot (in a yelling kind of way) and he loves to laugh. Yesterday I was making lots silly noises at him and he was laughing so, so, so, so loud and long and hard. It was so hilarious. We couldn't believe he was laughing so hard! Wish we had gotten on video.

I love this one. He looks like a little monkey.

Precious.

Stike a pose.

We love you Max Poo!

An Afternoon at the Theater

2009-12-19T15:14:00.006-07:00

This is a fun picture someone took of the the entire Jenson clan (barring the Trevor Jenson family) when we went to the Nutcracker at the Ellie Caulkins. It was a fun day. Great to be with everyone!

This is what my Mom had to say about it. It's easier to use her words than write my own story!

Here's a fun Christmas memory from the Jenson Family. A large group of the us went to the Nutcracker Ballet during our Thanksgiving Holliday celebration. Some of the men and a very few children decided not to attend, but I'm pretty sure they are sorry because they missed an absolutely fantastic performance. We now have 32 in our extended Merlin and Carol family with a granddaughter on the way in February. If we get a picture of 2/3 of our family in any one setting we are doing well. We take lots of pictures and have great shots of us all, but this one will give you a general idea of the happiness we share as a family. We are counting our blessings as the year draws to an end and appreciate our friendship with you and the great love extended to us all from the Savior. We rejoice in his birth and mission. Merry Christmas!

Love,

Merlin and Carol Jenson

Place Your Order for a Free Holiday Pie by Tomorrow!

2009-12-17T11:07:00.000-07:00

Don't forget about pie night on December 23rd at my office! Tomorrow is the deadline for making your order (but I'm a pretty lenient guy, so....). Pumpkin, apple or cherry. We hope you can stop by for some holiday goodness!

It's Easy To Create Great Memories In December!

2009-12-13T21:18:00.001-07:00

I went to Utah this week for a real estate conference. I tend to go to these every few months it seems. I like it when they're in Utah because I can stay with my brother and his wife Mary. Thursday was my birthday and my parents happened to be in town visiting my Grandma so they took us out to dinner.

Here they are. They get better looking as the years go by.

John and Mary were great hosts. I slept in their guest bedroom. Very comfortable, cozy and quiet. Mary does a great job making a house a home.

Back to dinner. They made me wear this crazy fish hat. We went to McGrath's Fish House. Seems like a great establishment but I didn't like what I got. The Captain's Plate. It would've been good had they not battered and fried everything on my entire plate. I guess I should've looked a little more closely at the fine print. I had not idea there was going to be anything that was battered or fried. I'm not a big fan of greasy food.

These pics were all taken on my brother John's new camera. Apparently he likes to take close-up photos just like me.

John and I didn't seem to be able to get enough time on our computers. I have an excuse though. I was in class all day long every day I was in Utah and so I had to get all caught up in the evenings or wake up early to get a head start on the day. It was a productive week though. I made a couple of offers and got a new listing.

John and I also spent a lot of time comparing budgets and notes on how we manage our finances. I think we both learned a few things from each other. I found this great website a while ago called www.mint.com and tipped John off about it. He started using it but I didn't at the time because it wouldn't sync correctly with my bank. In the meantime I've been using www.quickenonline.com but it's not as robust or intuitive as mint.com so I made the switch this week, and I'm loving it! Such a fun, easy way to tracking your expenses, spending habits and quickly create budgets. I highly recommend checking it out!

Mary took this action shot of us comparing our budgets. She seemed to get a kick out of it. I'm just glad my bald spot isn't showing. The pills must be working!

They made me a pineapple upside down cake. Haven't had one of this since scouts. It was delish. And so were the fajitas Mary made. Mmmmmmmm.

Friday night we went to the Mormon Tabernacle Choir/Natalie Cole Christmas Spectacular. It was really great. Natalie was gracious and diva-like. In a good diva kinda way. I wasn't thrilled with her voice but keep reminding myself that she's an R&B/pop singer, not an opera singer. In all fairness, there were songs where she really shined. Like when she sang her daddy's tune, The Christmas Song. That was the best part of "her part" of the evening. For me, the best part of the evening overall was David McCullough's part. He told a couple of really touching stories about how a couple of Christmas carols came to be.

Richard Eliot's organ solo was a show stopper and brought everybody to their feet. He played an arrangement that wove together "Good King Wenceslas" and "The Nutcracker". His hands and feet were going every which way. It was somethin' to see.

Oh, another poignant moment was Cole's telling of Luke 2 to accompaniment. She told it in such a sweet, heartfelt way.

We just happened to bump into Dad and Mom right before the concert. And Grandma too. They didn't know we had gotten tickets to come to the Friday night concert. Originally we were just supposed to be able to go to the Sunday morning concert but I got on KSL and Craigslist and did some trading and was able to get us lined up to go to Friday night's show.

So, after the concert, we all walked through temple square to see the lights and ended up at the Joseph Smith Building.

David McCullough and Natalie Cole were there signing books and CDs. I got a close-up!

I'm not a crazy Natalie Cole lover by any stretch of the imagination, but hey, she's famous. And the guy to her left is Mr. McCullough himself. What a great story teller!

All in all, it was a great, productive, memorable week!

Trotting it up

2009-12-10T21:17:00.001-07:00

Seth and Max and I ran in the turkey trot on Thanksgiving. We loved it! It was a beautiful day and people in turkey costumes turned out in droves. We ran with our non-running stroller so luckily our friends Ben and Jen were there to push it for us.

There were TONS of people there

Next year we are going to have to run faster because we almost missed Thanksgiving dinner. We won't forget our turkey costumes either.

Are these cute or what?

2009-12-05T06:40:00.000-07:00

The Golden Girls

2009-12-04T15:27:00.001-07:00

I heard something on KBCO this morning about a football player that is an unabashed fan of the Golden Girls. He watches two or three episodes after every practice because it helps him remember the good old days. Does anyone know who this football player is? I didn't catch his name, but I'm impressed that he would utter such an adoration out loud over the airwaves. I can't say that I share his interests, but I think it's great that he's so comfortable in his skin! Go . . . . whoever you are!!

Is it the hair?

2009-12-02T17:48:00.001-07:00

I was shopping the other day and some nice woman in line started talking to me about my little girl. I was buying a little dress and I think that started the girl questions about my little boy dressed in a brown shirt and jeans. Not wanting to embarrass her I just played along. She was asking pretty generic questions so it was easy to avoid saying he, his, etc. Man, the things I do to avoid embarrassing total strangers. When I got to the front of the line that lady at the cash register started talking to me about her one year old. Her questions about my "girl" were a little harder to answer so I told her that Max was a boy...all this while the nice woman from the line that I had a full conversation about my "girl" was in ear shot. We finished our conversation and I avoided the gaze of the nice woman behind me and tried to hide behind my shopping bag. It happened again tonight. A creepy man who came to my door asked me some questions and then before turned to leave said "She's so cute". I put on my best crooked shaky smile and did an awkward laugh.

Five new reviews on our food blog. Yum!

2009-11-22T18:23:00.001-07:00

Five new reviews on our food blog. Click here!

Glenwood Springs

2009-11-16T11:10:00.001-07:00

Seth had a continuing education class in Glenwood Springs two weekends ago. Max and I went along for the ride. Being the loving wife that I am I decided to book our hotel. I tried out hotwire.com for some deals. I signed up for a pretty cheap two and a half star deal. The Motor Inn. But I didn't know that was the hotel until after I paid for it. It was so gross. We pulled in around 11 pm on Wednesday and I wanted to cry a little. That, and I was a little afraid there was a drug dealer above us...if they have drugs in Glenwood Springs. The beds were complete with faux leopard pelt blankets. We called hotwire the next morning and they changed our reservation to the Holiday Inn Express down the road. I have never been so excited. We ended up getting booked in a totally nice room with a jetted tub. When I checked in the man at the front desk told me to come down later because he was baking cookies. Tears. I wanted to hug him and tell him thank you for saving me from a slow death at the Motor Inn.

We went to the Hotel Colorado for lunch. It is big and beautiful and old. Teddy Roosevelt stayed there a few different times for hunting trips and vacation. He came back from one hunting trip without shooting any bears. He was disappointed so one of the maids made him a bear. The beginning of the teddy bear.

Our nice hotel room. There were two tvs and a room off to the side with a desk and a couch where Max slept. Such an improvement from the Ghetto Inn.

On Friday while Seth was in class Max and I drove to Aspen. This is our only photo. It was such a beautiful drive but I was kind of disappointed when I got there. You have to pay for parking everywhere you go. Max and I walked around a park a little shopping center before heading back. The drive was the best part of my first trip to Aspen.

We went to the springs on Thursday. It was so fun! Max loved the water. He loves to splash and met two new girlfriends in the water who couldn't get enough of him. It smelled pretty bad before we got in but we got used to it. I love night swimming. Afterwards we went to the Italian Underground....yum! The best most authentic Italian food. On Saturday morning we went on a beautiful hike up to Lilypad Lake.

It was kind of chilly but we kept Max bundled up and he slept most of the way.

We went to a really good pizza place in Frisco for lunch. We had huge pieces of pizza that covered two plates. We drove down to Silverthorne and spend the rest of the day at the outlets.

Happy Halloweenie

2009-11-08T20:46:00.003-07:00

Max getting a little love from Grandma Jenson

Max's cute cousin Grace

Giraffe life is hard

It's what's for dinner

2009-11-08T20:18:00.003-07:00

Little Max is 6 months old and that is the magic number for solid foods. I started with rice cereal and peaches and it was love at first bite. He cried every time I stopped feeding him and ate until he couldn't hold any more. Since then he hasn't been loving eating as much, but it was fun while it lasted. He figured out how to get the food out of his mouth quickly and efficiently when he doesn't feel like eating. PPppppppbbbtttt...his little tongue works just like a sprinkler.

I think he inherited that expression

2009-11-08T19:56:00.000-07:00

A few more pics of Silverthorne...

2009-11-02T20:22:00.002-07:00

We went up to Silverthorne earlier this year for a little family fun. We already blogged about it but here are a few more pictures that deserve to be posted.

Most of the Jenson clan.

Great shot, don't you think?

Welcome Home Daddy!

2009-10-27T05:35:00.002-06:00

max is such a sweet little boy. it's fun to tease him a little bit when i come home at night. meg often greets me in the doorway from the garage into the house with max on her hip. i call out his name and make the silly noises he associates with daddy. at first he can't see me because his vision isn't that developed yet but he can hear me. he looks around - this way and that. i call out again. he can't see me! he recognizes my voice but has no idea where i am. it's pretty funny. then meg takes a few steps closer and i get out of the car all the way. his face lights up like a christmas tree. huge grin. i love it!

i take max upstairs with me to get changed from my work clothes into my play clothes. i lay max down on the bed and tell him what i'm doing in fascinating detail. he hears all about my tie as i tear it off my neck. then i dangle it above his head and he laughs and laughs and laughs. i whip off my belt and make loud cracking noises with it right it front of him. the air rushes into both of our faces with each thunderous crack. he squeals. i undo my shirt and telling him about each and every button. i rip it off with a great flourish and he thinks it's a brilliant trick. then i throw it over his head and he giggles with delight as he tries frantically to get it off. i take it off for him and he screams with pleasure at the sight of my voice and the terror my loud "boo!" we do it over and over again.

he usually gets sick of our game before i do and starts fussing. i'm still not done getting undressed but the show is over. i finish quickly as he gets fussier and fussier. i'm done now so i scoop him up into my arms and we had back downstairs to be with mommy and have dinner.

it's good to be home!

Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story

2009-10-26T18:16:00.001-06:00

Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story by Ben Carson

My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I read this in high school but last week checked out the recently made movie with the same title from the library. An amazing, uplifting story. Highly recommend the book AND the movie.

View all my reviews >>

Glenn Beck's Common Sense

2009-10-25T08:00:00.002-06:00

Glenn Beck's Common Sense: The Case Against an Out-of-Control Government, Inspired by Thomas Paine by Glenn Beck

My rating: 1 of 5 stars
I picked up Glenn Beck's book the order and started reading it the other day. Borrowed it from the in-laws. I really liked Glenn Beck at first. But, the more I listen to this guy, Glenn Beck that is, the less I like his style, and the less I trust him. I think some of his ideas are good but he's so sensational. He doesn't provide evidence and real life examples to support a lot of his claims. His words are incendiary. He thinks he's transformational, but I don't think he is. I think he's inflammatory. I prefer a methodical, cool, collected method to making a case for change. I'd prefer to have someone who truly understands economics and finance to be the one calling for change. I don't want to be led off a cliff by some ultra passionate ranter. I want someone who's so confident in what they believe that they are calm as a summer's morn. They don't have to freak out and scream to get people's attention and they know it. They possess the truth, and that's what makes them so calm. They don't have to use sensational antics to make a point. They just state their case and let it be, knowing that truth will prevail in the end. Maybe that's too calm an approach to accomplish anything in the political arena, but I for one would certainly enjoy that kind of an approach much more than the one politicians and pundits prefer to employ in this day and age.

View all my reviews >>

The Lost Symbol

2009-10-25T07:52:00.001-06:00

The Lost Symbol by Dan Brown

My rating: 2 of 5 stars
Certainly a page turner. A little silly in parts. Lots of interesting ideas though. I love how he challenges people in his writing to be more open minded. He's definitely got an agenda, and in this book he continues to challenges dogmatic Christianity. He also tries to help understand that things aren't always as they seem and that there may be more to things that meets the eye.

Don't know if I should mention it here, but the low point of this book for me was when the author mentioned the size or a certain part of the antagonists body. I have no idea why he felt that was necessary. Laughable.

View all my reviews >>

Mile High Munch

2009-10-11T14:24:00.003-06:00

Remember that restaurant review blog I promised to do ages ago? It's done! We've only got a few reviews done actually, but we'll add to it as we try new places. Enjoy, and let us know what your favorite places are so we can check them out.

Click here: Mile High Munch

The Rise and Fall of Nauvoo

2009-10-11T07:49:00.002-06:00

The Rise and Fall of Nauvoo by B.H. Roberts

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Great book on the history of Nauvoo, the first truly great city built by the Mormon pioneers.

View all my reviews >>

Tiger Woods' Daily Schedule

2009-10-10T14:05:00.000-06:00

One of my real estate mentors sent this (the schedule below) to me in an email. I like to think that I am a fairly disciplined guy, but this guy makes me look so lazy! I guess you have to work hard to make a billion dollars.

6:30am ... One hour of heavy cardio workout. Choice between endurance runs, sprints, or biking.

7:30am ... One hour of weight training using 60-70% of normal weight with high reps and multiple sets.

8:30am ... High protein / low fat breakfast. Typically an egg white omelet with vegetables.

9:00am ... Two hours on the driving range, working on his swing.

11:00am ... Practice putting for a minimum of thirty minutes.

12:00pm ... Play nine holes of golf, practicing his shots.

1:30pm ... High protein / low fat lunch. Typically includes grilled chicken or fish with salad and vegetables.

2:00pm ... Three to four hours on the golf course, working on his swing, his short game, sometimes playing another nine holes.

6:30pm ... Thirty minutes of upper body weight training with high reps.

7:00pm ... Dinner and rest.

St. George

2009-10-06T10:53:00.021-06:00

Seth and I had planned to go to NYC last week but the day before we were supposed to leave we got the call that his Grandpa had passed away. So to St. George we went. NYC will have to wait for another time.

Grandpa Jenson was 97 years old and lived a good long life. His wife passed away ten years before he did so he was ready to go. It was a joyful celebration of his life.

The original Jenson family

We drove out on Saturday morning, went to the funeral on Saturday afternoon and drove back on Sunday morning. It was a quick trip and Max's first road trip. He was a dream.

Mormons Made Simple!

2009-09-25T12:52:00.002-06:00

For more videos like this one go to: www.mormonsmadesimple.com. I don't know who put this site together (it's not an official church website) but it's great! Very informative and easy to understand. All the things you've wondered about explained very simply in a few minutes with animation! Watch it while you eat lunch.

I love it.

There's a She-Wolf in the Closet!

2009-09-20T16:01:00.006-06:00

My cousin Nan is a superstar! She ran her second marathon yesterday . . . . . and beat the course record! And it was only her SECOND marathon. WOW! She is actually an accomplished distance runner. She was All American in the 3,000 meter steeplechase and cross country at BYU. She helped the Cougars win a couple of national titles in '99 and '01. But that was a while ago! Anyway, she amazes me, and what can I do with my amazement other than write a little something. That's the least I can do. Maybe I can be a fast runner like her some day. We are blood cousins after all. Maybe there's hope for this slow poke! But enough about me.

Here's Nan. Looks like she's about the take off!! Someone hold that girl down. Having 3 kids hasn't done it.

I think there were only 5 men that beat her in the Top of Utah marathon yesterday. Ha!

I love this shot. Look at the grit and determination. She's like, "Don't even think about it." This photo was actually at a Denver race that she also blasted. She tied the course record of this one, and it was only because she got of course for a while and had to be redirected!

I should probably explain the title to this post. There's a ridiculous new song by Shakira that's coming out. It's called "There's a She-Wolf In the Closet." For the chorus Shakira does this hilarious little "Auuuuuuuu!!" howl thingy. I think it's Shakira's worst song yet. Her music has been going downhill steadily since her crossover. I'm something of an expert on her music, okay. Get over it. Anyway, I'm finding it harder and harder to take her seriously. Meg and I laughed our heads off about this song when we heard it for the first time yesterday. Auuuu!?! You've gotta be joking us.

But, now I'm thinking, maybe this should be NAN'S NEW THEME SONG!! She's an animal!!

To read more about Nan or follow her running achievements go to http://hjnews.townnews.com/articles/2009/09/20/sports/sports03-09-20-09.txt or http://nan.fastrunningblog.com/ or http://www.facebook.com/nankennard.

Catching Fire

2009-09-19T16:57:00.000-06:00

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Another light, fun one.

View all my reviews >>

Weekend in Silverthorne

2009-09-18T12:16:00.006-06:00

We went up to Silverthorne a couple weekends ago for Labor Day. The Jensons like to bike Vail Pass whenever we get a chance. It's all downhill. Who wouldn't like that?

Here's the whole crew.

Us.

Max's first ride in a bike trailer. He pretty slept the whole way. Perfect.

Here are Max's beautiful cousins Olivia and Grace.

Max is a hit wherever he goes. We like to think so at least.

Hunger Games

2009-09-07T17:14:00.002-06:00

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Meg tipped me off on this one. Suspenseful all the way through until the end. Quick, fun read. The second book in the series, Catching Fire, came out last week and Meg is already through it. I'm next!

View all my reviews >>

Big Apple, Here We Come!

2009-09-02T18:20:00.003-06:00

We've been wanting to take a trip somewhere fun pretty much since the moment we set foot back on American soil after our honeymoon in the DR. It's already been two years and I think the farthest away we've gone is Breckenridge (okay, that's not really true but it's dramatic).

We talked about going on a babymoon and that never happened. So, this trip is in honor of us and our baby and everything else. Maybe someday we'll just be able to go on trips for the heckuvit and I won't feel the need to come up with a bunch of special reasons.

If you have any suggestions of where you think we should EAT, what we should SEE, and where we should GO while we're in the big city, let us know! We like suggestions. We're going to be there later this month from the 23rd to the 27th.

Two Years

2009-08-26T14:40:00.023-06:00

Our anniversary was yesterday! To celebrate we took pictures of ourselves and gave Max a haircut.

Max's hair has been growing wildly out of control lately.

Seth clipped his hair while I held him and he was so good. I think he sort of liked it.

The new do

Max loves it.

We love being married.

We are a happy family.

Lewis Family Reunion

2009-08-26T09:02:00.038-06:00

My grandma and grandpa Stott

Our new neice Lili and Max making friends

We celebrated my parents 40th wedding anniversary

The Millionaire Real Estate Agent

2009-08-24T09:06:00.000-06:00

The Millionaire Real Estate Agent: It's Not About the Money...It's About Being the Best You Can Be! by Gary Keller

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Great book! Must read for all you real estate agents out there. ;) This book is the gospel for how to achieve high levels of success and business ownership in real estate sales. If you're not a real estate agent, then I'd skip this one and go right to the Millionaire Real Estate Investor.

View all my reviews >>

The Poisonwood Bible

2009-08-16T07:40:00.000-06:00

The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Interesting book. Gained a new perspective about colonialization (don't even know if that's a word) and exploitation in Africa by the Belgians, the Portuguese, and the Americans. Not really an uplifting book, but an important one I think.

View all my reviews >>

Holy Moose!

2009-08-03T16:39:00.003-06:00

Look at this! It's a completely candid moment captured by a stranger of my wee little niece, Ellen. Apparently she was hiking along mind her business when she nearly stumbled upon this bull moose. The stranger captured the surprised look on her face just as she turned back towards her parents! The guy taking the photo probably should've been more concerned about saving the little girl from the hulking beast on the horizon, but all's well that ends well.

One Blonde is Enough for Me!

2009-07-26T11:55:00.014-06:00

Meg and I came out to Vegas together this week so I could participate in a real estate conference by the Mike Ferry Organization. I learned a lot, and Meg had a great time with her sister Erin.

One of the nights we were here I took Meg to a show. We wanted to see Mystere because we'd heard that was the best show in Vegas to see.

But, tickets weren't available. We also thought about going to see the show O. Those tickets were $170 a piece! Maybe next time. After much debate we opted to see the new Donny and Marie show at the Flamingo.

We were definitely the only young couple there. Ha! We both were a little self conscious about going to a show we thought was going to be geared towards old timers, but we had a great time and were very entertained. They both look great and have amazing voices. Donny was rockin'.

Marie was charming, fun, alive, and beautiful. Looks great for having 8 kids. She even did an opera number. Wow!

After the show we walked over to a classic French cafe called Mon Ami Gabi. It's right on the strip, directly across from the Bellagio fountains.

Great setting for a romantic dinner. I ordered steak and Meg ordered salad and French onion soup, and we shared. The free bread was delicious. One of my favorite parts of eating out is free bread! Can't get enough of it.

I was planning on going home with Meg on Friday but I decided to stay a few extra days for some additional training that's taking place Monday and Tuesday. Yesterday I did a little shopping (something I HATE and VERY RARELY do) at the new outdoor mall in Vegas, Town Square. All things considerd, it's a great place to shop. They have a store there called H&M that I was told to go to, and I love it.

I wish they had this place in Denver!! Lots of great clothes, and the prices are decent. I'm not quite sure how to describe the type of clothing that's offered there other than to say that the quality and styling is better than Gap and much better than Old Navy. Perhaps a little more interesting and edgy and Banana Republic. I imagine they have stuff similar to what you'd find at Express or Express for Men, though I've never shopped at Express so I'm certainly not qualified to offer opinions on that. Anyway, H&M is just a really cool store. I bought a bunch of polos and a couple pair of jeans. They have a Banana Republic at Town Square too, and I scored a couple of deals from the sale rack. The sale racks at Banana Republic are usually worth the time, but hopefully after yesterday's spree I won't have to shop again for another couple of years. :)

Oh, I forgot to mention the funniest moment of this trip. Well, I don't have my car out here, obviously, and I didn't rent one either. So, in order to get to Town Square yesterday I had to call up a cab.

He arrived at the hotel to pick me up, and the first questions out of his mouth were where was I going and did I want any "blondes" or an escort!!!! Hahahahaha!!! Only in Vegas!! I laughed and told him no, I didn't need any blondes or an escort. Then he wanted to know if I needed a massage, and he told me about this great restaurant across the street with great girls. Geez, he wasn't going to let up! I decided to stave off any more questions along those lines by telling him that I already had a beautiful blonde, and one is enough for me!

I thought telling him about my monogamous life was enough of a learning opportunity for him for one day. Besides, he got bored with that conversation rather quickly and wanted to use up the remaining minutes of our cab ride telling me all about his new business and how I could make billions if I invested in it. I didn't sign up.

I think Meg hates that photo, but I love it. She looks so happy, bright, and virtuous. Meg, you've the only blonde for me. As Donny Osmond would say (and so, so frequently would he say it) "Yeah baby!"

Meg, you fill up every corner of my heart and soul. There ain't no room for more!

As a disclaimer, I often take pictures from Google Images of Flickr for my blog posts. I will make this disclaimer once and I may or may not ever make it again, but may it be known, I do not take all of the photos that I post on our blog. In fact, I didn't take any of the photos on this entire post. So there!

Flagstaff Fourth

2009-07-18T07:07:00.016-06:00

We went to Flagstaff for the 4th and had a great time. My sister Jeanna lives there. Pretty much the whole family met up there for the holiday.

My lovely wife. (I've been waiting to use that line for years.)

Here they are. That's John's wife Mary, my niece Megan, my parents, and my wife.

She's all business.

Look how tiny Max looks in this pic. A little speck.

I love the contrast.

Big boy.

If you got it, flaunt it.

Yes, I photoshopped this picture.

This one is all natural.

Hi there!

Proud father.

A little too proud.

Big blue.

Having the time of her life!

Splish splash.

Thanks Jeanna and Mark. We had a great time! Can't wait to come out again some time.

Everybody Sleeps

2009-07-15T20:54:00.008-06:00

Guess who slept through the night last night?

I'm not sure if it was because he was wearing sheep pajamas or because he screamed for an hour before he went to bed. Either way it was sweet bliss. I didn't even wake up to check on him once. I woke up at 5 am and realized and he hadn't roused me with his sweet jabber to feed him during the night. He is such a gem.

He has been a pretty good sleeper since he was born...but I have kind of been a basket case. It doesn't happen as frequently now, but when he was smaller I would wake up at least once a night and frantically search for him in our sheets. Since he never sleeps in our bed with us, I never found him in the sheets. It took a few minutes before I remembered he was asleep in his bed....and then I would go check on him just to make sure. I think I might still be checking to make sure he is breathing until he graduates from high school.

He had his 2 month check up recently.

Height 24 1/4 inches 90%

Weight 11 lbs 5 ounces 49%

He got 5 shots. He cried like never before. So did I. Not really but I wanted to.

Make Me Throw My Hands in the Ayer

2009-07-04T07:55:00.005-06:00

Meg made me this gorgeous pie for Father's Day, and I've been trying to come up with an excuse to post a picture of it ever since.

It makes me want to sing "God Bless America" and "America the Beautiful" AT THE SAME TIME or that pimpin' song "In the Ayer" by Flo Rida. Max just told me he'd like to sing it to you:

Oh hot dang, this is my jam
Keep me drinking milk, 'til the a.m.
Y'all don't understand, make me throw my hands

In the AYER, AYER, AY-AYER, AYER!

Thanks Max. Well sung son. Happy fourth everybody! God bless America and homemade pie!

We ARE a Judeo-Christian Nation

2009-06-21T08:20:00.001-06:00

Seth and Meg

We Live!

Best Books

I like to eat and dance and play

Fall Color Tour

Yogurtland at Home!

Six little chicks

House Fire!

A Smattering of Photos

Playin' it Cool

Mouse Trap House

Max's First Words

Zoom Zoom

Hike with Dad and Mom

Glamour Shots

Good parenting books?

Pinkberry

Yelp!

Where can I get one of those?

We Witnessed a Piece of History!

Sea World!

Where Your Dreams Come True!

Beach Time!

The Help

Max's favorite pastime

Our Peanut is 365 Days Old

Say Cheese

Josh and Emilie Wedding

Post a comment if you want a little more of this and a little less of that

In The Heights

The Great Bridge

Difficult Conversations

Just Listed!

Columbine

A Thousand Splendid Suns

Columbine

The Making of an Easter Bunny!

Good things happen in the Spring

Just Listed!

Goodreads

Toodledo

Product endorsement for LDSJournal.com

Team of Rivals

Twilight Wanna Be

The Science of Getting Rich

Atlas Shrugged!!

Just Listed!

Crawling

Free Just Listed Email Alerts!

Out longer than in

Christmas Time Happenings

Back to School!

Autistic Wonder Boy

A Christmas Eve to Remember!

We Got Pie'd Out

Sleigh Rides and Santa!

Max Poo

An Afternoon at the Theater

Place Your Order for a Free Holiday Pie by Tomorrow!

It's Easy To Create Great Memories In December!

Trotting it up

Are these cute or what?

The Golden Girls

Is it the hair?

Five new reviews on our food blog. Yum!

Glenwood Springs

Happy Halloweenie

It's what's for dinner

I think he inherited that expression

A few more pics of Silverthorne...

Welcome Home Daddy!

Gifted Hands: The Ben Carson Story

Glenn Beck's Common Sense

The Lost Symbol

Mile High Munch

The Rise and Fall of Nauvoo

Tiger Woods' Daily Schedule

St. George

Mormons Made Simple!

There's a She-Wolf in the Closet!