tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-365135992024-03-13T17:14:08.573-06:00Where is Zach?Seriously...where is he?Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.comBlogger160125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-46285158031914820312017-02-28T22:19:00.000-07:002017-02-28T22:19:13.659-07:00It is Time...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hwBdzcXnhcE/WLZZn6J5IoI/AAAAAAAACQ0/5jaDncBUybsQJsvz0Bl2MZDvO98FQhBRACLcB/s1600/Clock.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hwBdzcXnhcE/WLZZn6J5IoI/AAAAAAAACQ0/5jaDncBUybsQJsvz0Bl2MZDvO98FQhBRACLcB/s320/Clock.jpg" width="320" height="213" /></a></div>
It has been too long and too much has happened...it is time for me to dust this thing off and start posting again.
I doubt anyone checks this anymore...but I need some sort of electronic journal.
Welcome back!Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-84140836145574819532011-05-29T18:59:00.004-06:002011-05-29T19:05:58.049-06:00<center><h1>Water, Water Everywhere</center></h1><br />The other night, my buddy Jon called me up asking to be a sound board for him while he hashed out some ideas. Always looking forward to hanging out with him, I readily agreed. We spent a good couple of hours driving around south Utah County just talking, laughing and having a grand ol’ time. <br />About 1:00 in the morning, we were just getting back into Provo, and as he was dropping me off at my apartment, Jon received a call from his mother-in-law saying that their basement was flooding. He said he would be right over to help out.<br />As I jumped out of the car, I told him that if they needed additional help, to give me a call. I don’t think either of us thought he would actually do it.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kP0CWej6az8/TeLsLVnHmwI/AAAAAAAABaE/4RJBQQsazGY/s1600/Wetbasement.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 304px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kP0CWej6az8/TeLsLVnHmwI/AAAAAAAABaE/4RJBQQsazGY/s320/Wetbasement.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612307765180996354" /></a><br />About 40 minutes later, after he had assured me that he probably wouldn’t be calling me, my phone started to ring. It was Jon asking if I could come help out. As I hadn’t climbed into bed yet, I told him I would be right over. I threw on some old shoes (figuring they were going to get wet), and headed on over.<br />Now Jon’s in-laws live in a fairly nice neighborhood. I knew where their house was because Jon had pointed it out to me on a few occasions. When I arrived, I couldn’t find anyone answering the door, so I just walked on in and found my way downstairs.<br />This house was AMAZING! Besides being relatively brand-new and very well maintained, it also happens to have a TWO-STORY basement. How else are you going to fit your indoor racquetball court?<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HPEHKNHhCJU/TeLsUSex70I/AAAAAAAABaM/rLb-CB9PsQw/s1600/Racquetball.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HPEHKNHhCJU/TeLsUSex70I/AAAAAAAABaM/rLb-CB9PsQw/s320/Racquetball.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612307918959537986" /></a><br />So I found everyone down in the racquetball court, where I walked in on the following scene:<br />Father In-Law was running one of two shop vacs, sucking up water from a very large pool that wasn’t getting any smaller. Meanwhile, Mother In-Law and Sister In-Law were bucketing out a second shop vac that was already filled with water. Rushing back and forth with filled 5-gallon buckets of water, Jon and his Brother In-Law were hauling these up the two flights of stairs and out the back door to a storm drain.<br />I jumped right in and started hauling buckets outside. We got into a pretty good rhythm of filling one shop vac while the other was being drained by hand. We were completing a full cycle of filling, switching and draining in about a minute and a half. We did this straight for over 3 hours, from 2 AM to 5 AM. We calculated that we carried out over 1,000 gallons of water…and we were just barely keeping up with the in-flow of water.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1umcWPkXBCs/TeLtPDLxpjI/AAAAAAAABaU/yS-QqwakI2k/s1600/water-bucket1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 309px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1umcWPkXBCs/TeLtPDLxpjI/AAAAAAAABaU/yS-QqwakI2k/s320/water-bucket1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612308928465577522" /></a><br />All during this time, there were also two full-time pumps running that had been installed when the house was built, plus a Disaster Recovery Team was setting up another pump to help drain the basement.<br />Needless to say…until they got set up…it felt like an exercise in futility. My hands, still sore from roofing a few days earlier, were cramping up and sore.<br />But I was happy to be there helping out. Eventually, the Disaster Team was set up and operating, and they had a second team that was almost ready to go as well. By this time, all of us who were manually working were completely and utterly spent physically. So at the word of the Father In-Law, we called it quits.<br />Jon’s Mother In-Law said to me, besides expressing her extreme gratitude, that she was impressed that I was there helping out instead of being in bed like most normal people. She said that I must really be a good friend to Jon to be willing to help out.<br />I told her that I was very happy to help out, knowing that if the roles were reversed, Jon wouldn’t hesitate to help me out as well.<br />Besides…friends help you move. REAL Friends help you move bodies…of water.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RCGgPgoRMcA/TeLtXH4FyAI/AAAAAAAABac/gNAFvbVysrY/s1600/Friends.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 319px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RCGgPgoRMcA/TeLtXH4FyAI/AAAAAAAABac/gNAFvbVysrY/s320/Friends.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612309067164141570" /></a>Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-9391123317170012722011-05-29T18:52:00.003-06:002011-05-29T19:13:49.674-06:00<center><h1>Getting ‘Round</center></h1><br />Several months ago, I was up in Spokane visiting my sister and her family. About this same time, they were getting their house ready to put on the market and sell. While I was up there, they found out that they were going to have to replace the roof in order to meet all the requirements for selling their home.<br />Having been one of the Roofing Trade for quite some time in my younger years, I volunteered the services of myself and our father to help them tear off the old roof and replace it with a new and less leaky roof.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wuO01wBZbT0/TeLqvIbMeHI/AAAAAAAABZ8/qESn7jI0zPI/s1600/5744982257_5ee00a111c_z.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wuO01wBZbT0/TeLqvIbMeHI/AAAAAAAABZ8/qESn7jI0zPI/s320/5744982257_5ee00a111c_z.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612306181093357682" /></a><br />Fast forward to two weeks ago when my Dad, Mom and I drove up to Spokane to fulfill that offer of service from yester-month. We drove up in my truck, laden with the tools of the trade and a few duffle bags.<br />Now I will be the first to admit that when I first conceptualized the idea of replacing their roof, I really didn’t think that it would be much of a challenge. It is a fairly simple roof, with only two valleys and pretty much straight runs covering the rest of it. We arrived on Monday night. Our plan was to tear off the roof in one day, and then lay down the tar paper and the first few rows of shingles the second day, and finally finishing off the entire project on the third day. We would be able to head home on Friday.<br />That’s not how it panned out…at all.<br />However, we were able to complete it all. It took two days to tear off the roof, and an additional three more to put the new roof on. During the installation process, as per City Code, we had to have an inspection done after the first layer of Ice Shield had been set down. When the inspector arrived, in less than a minute, he commented that this was probably going to be the only roof he passed that day. He went on to point out that all the other roofs were being done by professional contractors. So that made us feel good.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lf5Si37HxVc/TeLvN-2xddI/AAAAAAAABas/ygr8BIafRwg/s1600/JasonNZach.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-lf5Si37HxVc/TeLvN-2xddI/AAAAAAAABas/ygr8BIafRwg/s320/JasonNZach.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612311109147129298" /></a><br />Finally, Saturday morning came. We didn’t have much left…but by this point my Dad and I were both just physically exhausted. What I thought we would finish by Noon, still took us until almost 9 PM that night.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VTlAPpzheCI/TeLquyCaHCI/AAAAAAAABZ0/laMASbIyGyg/s1600/243098_2121200268279_1193982390_2519499_6261584_o.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VTlAPpzheCI/TeLquyCaHCI/AAAAAAAABZ0/laMASbIyGyg/s320/243098_2121200268279_1193982390_2519499_6261584_o.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612306175083813922" /></a><br />But we did it…the roof was completely replaced with great help given by family, local ward members and especially the missionaries. My sister Gretchen especially deserves a personal shout-out as she was a huge help to us, and still maintained her household. My Mom was a great blessing in helping to watch the kids and in cleaning up. We were all truly blessed with safety and strength to get through it all. And the best part of it was that the final inspection went through with no problems at all. I was very happy to hear that.<br />The biggest lesson that I learned though, was that my 63 year old Dad can still out work me. The man is a machine.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZoV-kV3JqXg/TeLu9VYLMqI/AAAAAAAABak/1X_WivbnxDI/s1600/Dad_Machine.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZoV-kV3JqXg/TeLu9VYLMqI/AAAAAAAABak/1X_WivbnxDI/s320/Dad_Machine.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5612310823135031970" /></a>Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-63151170955199466012011-04-28T20:30:00.004-06:002011-04-28T20:52:35.033-06:00<h1><center>Life In Shamrock</center></h1><br />I imagine that living in a small town on the famous Route 66 does have it's advantages. In fact, I set out to discover some of them this week when we had a very brief amount of down time.<br /><br />As has already been mentioned, Shamrock, TX is located on the famous Route 66.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PETGqb2rDjw/TbomSYPwHHI/AAAAAAAABY4/QFkBpWSt234/s1600/Shamrock_Map.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PETGqb2rDjw/TbomSYPwHHI/AAAAAAAABY4/QFkBpWSt234/s320/Shamrock_Map.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600831183776652402" /></a><br />One of it's buildings: <br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dOdnR4X2lKI/TbomSiJO1XI/AAAAAAAABZI/iL22B3HrkmM/s1600/Gas_Station.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dOdnR4X2lKI/TbomSiJO1XI/AAAAAAAABZI/iL22B3HrkmM/s320/Gas_Station.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600831186433660274" /></a><br />was the inspiration for a very popular hang out place for the characters in this movie.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FNXhCwx0Xro/TbomSmb_YsI/AAAAAAAABZA/F4DoZdEG4Aw/s1600/Cars.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 295px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FNXhCwx0Xro/TbomSmb_YsI/AAAAAAAABZA/F4DoZdEG4Aw/s320/Cars.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600831187586081474" /></a><br />If you ever have the opportunity to pass through here, I highly recommend that you stop in and visit Big Vern's Steakhouse. It is located right on Route 66, and there are billboards for it everywhere. This is easily the best tasting steak in the area.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ED6TXqvZlHk/Tbom0IgshsI/AAAAAAAABZQ/mLHrPHgmebY/s1600/Verns.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 259px; height: 194px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ED6TXqvZlHk/Tbom0IgshsI/AAAAAAAABZQ/mLHrPHgmebY/s320/Verns.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600831763668305602" /></a><br /><center>If you are lucky, you might get to see Vern himself.</center><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XmrrrYRs5RM/Tbom0bp1w8I/AAAAAAAABZY/2FmaMeX_81k/s1600/Vern_Himself.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-XmrrrYRs5RM/Tbom0bp1w8I/AAAAAAAABZY/2FmaMeX_81k/s320/Vern_Himself.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600831768806933442" /></a><br /><center>(He is a VERY nice guy, but you have to listen to him carefully as he has a very quiet voice and tends to mumble his words.)</center><br /><br />Not only is Shamrock famous for it's movie building stand-ins...it is also the home of the largest water tower (of this type), in the entire state of Texas.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uQaDPS938EI/Tbom0Y9VVhI/AAAAAAAABZg/WDXBospQSJE/s1600/Water_Tower.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uQaDPS938EI/Tbom0Y9VVhI/AAAAAAAABZg/WDXBospQSJE/s320/Water_Tower.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600831768083387922" /></a><br /><center>(It is quite large and can be seen from a long distance.)</center><br /><br />But probably one of the best parts of Shamrock is that if you stay in a hotel, for even one night, you get a free round of 18 holes of golf at their local country club. (It's actually a 9-hole course that you get to go round twice).<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HrSuQm7Q1bc/Tbom0-EzfoI/AAAAAAAABZo/ohOJ0MEWQ_g/s1600/Zach_Golf.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HrSuQm7Q1bc/Tbom0-EzfoI/AAAAAAAABZo/ohOJ0MEWQ_g/s320/Zach_Golf.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5600831778046836354" /></a><br /><center>(Yes...that's me with a pink putter...)</center><br /><br />So the next time you decide you need a long road trip...consider Route 66 and the small town of Shamrock, TX.<br /><br />Tell them Zach sent you! They won't have a clue who you are talking about.Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-82374196241132418772011-04-17T22:04:00.008-06:002011-04-17T22:29:22.172-06:00<center><h1>Feel The Love of the Embrace</center></h1><br />Today I was embraced by the Long Arm of the Texas Law.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AeOnz1nEKjk/Tau83H-rXuI/AAAAAAAABYQ/ku5qyYS6W0U/s1600/Hug.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 316px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AeOnz1nEKjk/Tau83H-rXuI/AAAAAAAABYQ/ku5qyYS6W0U/s320/Hug.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596774617158737634" /></a><br />So I found myself once again traveling to the wonderful state of Texas. I am down here for another 3 weeks...and it is already leading up to be one of the best trips yet.<br />After flying out of Salt Lake and landing in the great city of Oklahoma, in the state of the same name...I and my co-workers headed over to Joe's Crab Shack for some delicious seafood. I got the Rajun' Cajun Steampot. Although this particular dish is quite messy...it was most delectable.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Udc_pyYHFy0/Tau9A4wzZ9I/AAAAAAAABYY/emrR0eUdEHY/s1600/JoesCrabShack.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Udc_pyYHFy0/Tau9A4wzZ9I/AAAAAAAABYY/emrR0eUdEHY/s320/JoesCrabShack.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596774784872703954" /></a><br />After the meal, young Neil and I jumped in our trusty SUV, (a Nissan Armada to be exact), and drove West into the Texas Panhandle area.<br />Our destination was a Best Western hotel. This isn't the usual place of our lodging...because the "usual" spot was fully booked.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VOgJslPV4jA/Tau9JcfQfkI/AAAAAAAABYg/VuEbnGlQy0Q/s1600/Best%2BWestern%2BLogo.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 294px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VOgJslPV4jA/Tau9JcfQfkI/AAAAAAAABYg/VuEbnGlQy0Q/s320/Best%2BWestern%2BLogo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596774931901742658" /></a><br />When we arrived, I checked in first and took my bags up to my room. I then returned to the lobby to meet up with Neil and find out which room he had been checked into.<br />When I arrived at the lobby, my "partner in crime" was nowhere to be found.<br />So I pulled out my phone and shot off a quick e-mail to find out where he was. As I was hitting send, in through the front doors came barreling 6 men wearing bulletproof vests, star badges, and most of them had cowboy hats. Guns drawn, and scanning the lobby, one of the larger men pointed (his finger) at me and said, "Watch him!"<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U6j11h32mCA/Tau9rpcLSjI/AAAAAAAABYo/i7JhpY3A7qk/s1600/TexasLaw.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 244px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U6j11h32mCA/Tau9rpcLSjI/AAAAAAAABYo/i7JhpY3A7qk/s320/TexasLaw.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596775519494031922" /></a><br />Then all of them jumped in the elevator and headed somewhere.<br />A few minutes later, the same guy came back down and coming straight at me, demanded some identification.<br />I said, "Of course sir...here you go."<br />I handed him my passport.<br />He looked at me and asked if I had something else.<br />So I pulled out my driver's licenses. (I'm currently in the process of getting my motorcycle endorsement, so I have a paper "temporary" permit and then my plastic copy that has two holes punched in it).<br />He asked why the holes were punched in it. I told him that it was a temporary, while I was getting my motorcycle endorsement.<br />He demanded that I hand over my phone.<br />Now, at this moment, IN MY HEAD, I thought, "You know...you really need a warrant for this." But I also though, IN MY HEAD, it would be very unwise to say something like that to this large, very irritated man who happens to have a gun...and the right to detain me for 24 hours with no reason.<br />So I said, "Of course...here you go."<br />The phone was locked, so he demanded that I unlock it and show him whatever e-mail I had just sent. <br />Not having anything to hide, I showed him. At that point, young Neil had decided to e-mail me and let me know which room he was in. So the officer, turning the phone away from me, asked, "Who's in room ***?"<br />By the way...he wasn't asking any of this nicely.<br />Of course this was the first I had heard of this room...but I surmised that it must have been Neil, so I answered as such.<br />The officer seemed somewhat satiated with that answer.<br />But then the following conversation took place:<br />Officer: "Do you have a criminal record??"<br />Me: "No"<br />Officer: "Have you ever been arrested?"<br />Me: "No"<br />Officer: "Do you have any felonies or warrants?"<br />Me: "No"<br />Officer: "Have you ever had any speeding tickets?"<br />Me: "No"<br />(I wasn't going to explain that the one that I did get happened over 12 years ago and never went on my record)<br /><br />The officer then took all my identifications, (that he had been holding), and wrote down everything, Passport Number, License, Phone Number, and then told me, "stay available."<br /><br />And thus was my welcoming hug to the Great State of Texas.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j0BC3SZNgoo/Tau92rOL8xI/AAAAAAAABYw/HUZLyythmeA/s1600/Texas.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j0BC3SZNgoo/Tau92rOL8xI/AAAAAAAABYw/HUZLyythmeA/s320/Texas.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5596775708950786834" /></a><br />PS - A few minutes later, the rest of the officers came down with a man in handcuffs. They escorted him out of the building and as of this writing...I haven't heard another word about it.<br /><br />But I am still available.Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-38754345730661334472011-04-11T11:42:00.007-06:002011-04-11T12:03:29.375-06:00<center><h1>New Post</h1></center><div>There is absolutely no way that I can properly cover everything that has been going on since my last post, (or even since my last guest's post). However, I am re-investing myself into my blog and hope to once again, much like the proverbial Phoenix, raise my blog to the standards and entertainment that it once was.</div><div><br /></div><div>And I need a better medium for keeping a journal.</div><div><br /></div><div>With that said, I will just give you the briefest of synopses on the doings of my life.</div><div><br /></div><div>I know that the question on everyone's mind is, "Who was that masked blogger that swooped in and left the wonderful Valentine's Post?"</div><div><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CagJzZCnRCc/TaNAiyWufcI/AAAAAAAABXo/QvDmWJaP21A/s1600/ZachNAshlee.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CagJzZCnRCc/TaNAiyWufcI/AAAAAAAABXo/QvDmWJaP21A/s320/ZachNAshlee.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594386128501112258" /></a><br /></div><div>Well, her name is Ashlee...and we have been dating since December. We met in an Institute class and have been spending quite a bit of time with each other since then. She is a brilliant young woman, served a mission in Thailand and has a Master's Degree from BYU in Art History. She is currently working as a curator for a local art museum.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have also recently changed out vehicles in my life. The Passat has been replaced by a Ford F-150. I won't lie...I am enjoying the 4x4 option.</div><div><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VywZoNzGI0c/TaNAsB_7CiI/AAAAAAAABXw/qw6ceMzVuvY/s1600/Truck.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VywZoNzGI0c/TaNAsB_7CiI/AAAAAAAABXw/qw6ceMzVuvY/s320/Truck.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594386287319255586" /></a><br /></div><div>As far as work is concerned, I have been making regular treks to and from Shamrock, TX since September. It's funny how last year and the year prior to that, whenever people asked me where I had been or where I was going, they were always impressed as I would say things like, "Scotland", "England" or "Trinidad". But lately, I can see just the slightest disappointment cross their face as I now answer, "Texas".</div><div><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J_ruWLYQ0ko/TaNBUzLZnkI/AAAAAAAABYA/m9lXP49W_hA/s1600/Shamrock.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-J_ruWLYQ0ko/TaNBUzLZnkI/AAAAAAAABYA/m9lXP49W_hA/s320/Shamrock.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594386987715501634" /></a><br /></div><div>And it's not even an off-shore rig...it's a land rig with rattle snakes and everything.</div><div><br /></div><div>I have also joined the Twitter Nation. I will be the first to admit that I am still quite the tyro at it...but I am learning. Feel free to follow me if you wish @liffdog23</div><div><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sFyTjbSlqRg/TaNBDjZgzCI/AAAAAAAABX4/6vtDBD7MYus/s1600/twitter.jpeg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 118px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sFyTjbSlqRg/TaNBDjZgzCI/AAAAAAAABX4/6vtDBD7MYus/s320/twitter.jpeg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594386691421948962" /></a><br /></div><div>So there you have it...I have brought you relatively up to speed on my life. Moving forward, I am looking forward to golf and driving the motorcycle...not to mention a quick trip at some point to Spokane, WA to help replace a roof.</div><div><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pe6B85cqioM/TaNB-JENdgI/AAAAAAAABYI/xAmZTFPAcrI/s1600/Motorcycle.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pe6B85cqioM/TaNB-JENdgI/AAAAAAAABYI/xAmZTFPAcrI/s320/Motorcycle.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5594387697965561346" /></a><br /></div><div>Until then my extremely faithful readers...I bid you adieu.</div>Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-29071740074859137412011-02-14T16:25:00.007-07:002011-04-30T21:31:07.351-06:00Dear Zach:<br /><br />Happy Valentine’s Day. I apologize for infiltrating your blog, but a girl’s got to do SOMETHING for her boyfriend on Valentine’s Day, even if he is approximately 2,756 miles away. I just wanted you to know that I think you are kind of a big deal, even if you did say so yourself ☺ Thank you for making me smile. I am very lucky to have you in my life. In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, I thought I would venture…a poem. Brace yourself…. <br /><br />Ahem.<br /><br />There once was a young art curator<br />Who had actually become quite a dater<br />But after several months of tedious dating,<br />Resolved for a time to give up on mating.<br />She cried, “Must all single men be ridiculous?”<br />‘Twas enough to make a saint want to cuss --<br />Or cry, which she did, and resolved for a break<br />And hold out for a man who wasn’t a flake.<br /><br />Resolved to move forward, the disillusioned young lass<br />Felt to return to an Institute class.<br />She arrived the first week, embarrassingly late,<br />But perhaps her timing was a matter of fate!<br />She encountered a young man, equally tardy,<br />And brimming with self-assurance was fool-hardy<br />Enough to hit on her right after the prayer<br />Despite being older and having no hair ☺<br />Though wary of men with non-committal intention,<br />The girl was disarmed by his amiable wit and lack of convention<br />As he artfully asked for her number and scheduled dinner<br />For the very next night?!! This guy was a winner!<br />They continued to talk a bit longer that night<br />And the bemused girl returned home beaming, out-right.<br /><br />The next evening the two went to Taco-N-Tent,<br />(Yep. First date.)<br />Which appealed to the tastes of both lady and gent ;)<br />As they continued to talk over Mexican food<br />It was clear that this guy was an interesting dude.<br />As the evening closed, before parting ways,<br />The young man confessed, “I leave in two days.”<br />He departed for Texas, leaving the girl to her thoughts,<br />Intrigued by the man, first a bit then a lot.<br /><br />As he worked on the rig, many miles away<br />The two chatted practically every day.<br />And slowly the girl began to see<br />Many different sides to this Zachary.<br />He returned from Texas and both of them found<br />That each really liked when the other came ‘round.<br />They enjoyed Christmas lights, a Jazz game and movies together,<br />And The Forgotten Carols, where they were forced to sing “Together Forever.”<br />(Zach loved it.)<br />Soon he kissed her in the kitchen, ‘midst a mouthful of pie,<br />While he was on Lortab after lasering his eye.<br />(eyes.)<br /><br />Ah…<br /><br />The weeks have passed, sometimes fast, sometimes slow,<br />Especially when Zach is away from Provo.<br />But the adventures continue and memories are mounting,<br />As the story continues – now three months and counting…!<br />There’s still much left unwritten, but this poem must end.<br />So… Happy Valentine’s Day to an awesome boyfriend.<br />For such a guy there isn’t much I wouldn’t do,<br />Thank you again, and always, for just being… You ;)<br /><br />Love,<br /><br />Ashlee<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qUiKy-Yo6EI/TVnAHhQTj7I/AAAAAAAABXg/ZYgF-Z1ztEQ/s1600/IMG_6338.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qUiKy-Yo6EI/TVnAHhQTj7I/AAAAAAAABXg/ZYgF-Z1ztEQ/s320/IMG_6338.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5573697249266077618" /></a>Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-13994523630933008972011-01-01T12:43:00.004-07:002011-01-01T12:46:17.639-07:00<center><h1>Happy Holidays</center></h1><br /><center>Guess how I spent my holiday season</center><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TR-EJ1LZYNI/AAAAAAAABXU/_5ORGhu1Ucs/s1600/IntelliSteakChristmasCard.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TR-EJ1LZYNI/AAAAAAAABXU/_5ORGhu1Ucs/s320/IntelliSteakChristmasCard.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5557305769627050194" /></a><br><br /><center>Oh and Happy 2011!</center>Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-45172844304618932172010-11-29T00:05:00.002-07:002010-11-29T00:12:19.441-07:00<center><h1>Him? Oh that's Lyle</center></h1><br />So my buddy and I are getting ready to head home to Utah after three wonderful weeks in Texas. We pulled into Oklahoma City around midnight and checked into our hotel. Both of us being hungry, we decided to cross the parking lot to the local IHOP.<br /><br />While we were there, my buddy Eric noticed a guy in a cowboy hat across the room that looked really familiar. I looked over, and both of us at the same time realized who it was. We tried to get a good picture...but this was the best we could do.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TPNSNonz6tI/AAAAAAAABXI/TvxTAkaz6xI/s1600/Lyle.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TPNSNonz6tI/AAAAAAAABXI/TvxTAkaz6xI/s320/Lyle.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544865960419388114" /></a><br />So as we were leaving, we grabbed the waiter who had been serving Mr. Cowboy Hat and asked if that was Lyle Lovett over there. The waiter had no idea who we were talking about. I wanted to slap the kid across the face. He then said, "I'll go ask if you want me to."<br /><br />And he did.<br /><br />And it was!<br /><br />I felt bad for interrupting his meal, so I went over and apologized for sending the waiter. Lyle (as I call him now), was very cordial, asked my name and was a very, very kind man. I figured we had already bothered him enough, so I didn't ask for a picture or anything...but was truly impressed at how nice he was.<br /><br />And that was the night I met Lyle Lovett.Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-51144874758578214802010-11-27T17:03:00.003-07:002010-11-27T17:10:32.266-07:00<center><h1>Whoa...That's Hot</h1></center><br />One of the rig crew came by with some homemade jerky that he was sharing with all willing to "dare" take a piece. Never being reluctant when it comes to trying food, I of course took sample.<br /><br />My mouth still burns.<br /><br />This jerky was made with the infamous Ghost Pepper. It is THE hottest pepper in the world.<br /><br />It is pretty hot.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TPGdn7VOfiI/AAAAAAAABXA/KVhJhjOM93o/s1600/Ghost%2BPepper.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TPGdn7VOfiI/AAAAAAAABXA/KVhJhjOM93o/s320/Ghost%2BPepper.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5544385925536972322" /></a><br /><br />Maybe the old adage of not taking food from strangers is good advice...Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-58658082688013490832010-11-17T19:53:00.003-07:002010-11-17T20:32:09.874-07:00<center><h1>The DQ Nazi</h1></center><br />I take my ice cream very seriously. VERY seriously. So when it comes to partaking in the pleasure of this sub-zero calf nourishment, I have a tendency to be pretty picky.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TOSdH3tZzsI/AAAAAAAABW4/UYqOTryJp7M/s1600/ice-cream1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 212px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TOSdH3tZzsI/AAAAAAAABW4/UYqOTryJp7M/s320/ice-cream1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540726200111582914" /></a><br /><br />Now rewind several years to a brief time that I lived in the greater St. George area. While down there, I had the great pleasure to work with a young man, whose parents happened to own the local Dairy Queen. Because of this connection, any time that I frequented the DQ, I was given the employee discount of 50% off. I ate a lot of ice cream there.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TOSdHT-sHUI/AAAAAAAABWo/jljpytQpyzY/s1600/DQ%2BLogo.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 283px; height: 278px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TOSdHT-sHUI/AAAAAAAABWo/jljpytQpyzY/s320/DQ%2BLogo.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540726190520409410" /></a><br /><br />During that time, I learned to fine-tune the infamous Blizzard Treat to the exact specifications that made my palette dance. Specifically, I typically order a Chocolate Hawaiian Blizzard. The Hawaiian has pineapple, coconut and banana, but unlike the Island version, it doesn't have nuts in it. Also, it is typically served with Vanilla, but I found that Chocolate takes it to a whole new level of awesomeness.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TOSdG0EXWFI/AAAAAAAABWg/ha4BzYCODIA/s1600/Blizzard.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TOSdG0EXWFI/AAAAAAAABWg/ha4BzYCODIA/s320/Blizzard.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540726181954279506" /></a><br /><br /><br />So, back to Texas, where I am currently biding my time. We have found that Dairy Queen happens to be quite the common landmark in Texas. In fact, it is one of only 4 major chain restaurants in town.<br /><br />We have been going there almost every other day, typically it is for a Blizzard.<br /><br />However, we learned quickly that this particular Dairy Queen is the home of the DQ Nazi!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TOSdHrcfffI/AAAAAAAABWw/8OJ8ZCuN2Oo/s1600/DQ%2BNazi.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TOSdHrcfffI/AAAAAAAABWw/8OJ8ZCuN2Oo/s320/DQ%2BNazi.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5540726196819426802" /></a><br /><br />I have met a lot of people in this world. I have met a lot of people in the Customer Service industry. However, in all this time, I have never met a person with poorer customer service skills than this Gem of an Employee.<br /><br />She is an older lady, with what sounds like a high-pitched smoker's coughing voice. She has a gift for rolling her eyes at you and making you feel about 2 inches tall. She seems to get along wonderfully well with her fellow coworkers...but if you are a customer...expect no respect.<br /><br />Here is just a sampling of some of the events we have seen since meeting the DQ Nazi, (by the way...all of her responses were yelled unless otherwise noted):<br /><br />To one of my coworkers when he asked for a Root Beer Freeze: "I don't know how to do that!"<br /><br />To someone in the drive-thru: "Shut up! I told you to wait! I'll be with you in a minute!"<br /><br />To another coworker: "We don't have any ice cream!"<br /><br />One other coworker: "Don't pay now, I'll get all your orders!"<br /><br />To me, (when I asked for a Chocolate Hawaiian Blizzard): "We don't have any chocolate!"<br /><br />When I asked her if she could put chocolate syrup in it, she responded with a "grumph" and a roll of her eyes: "Well...yes."<br /><br />That chocolate syrup conversation has actually happened twice. The same way both times.<br /><br />And she has started adding nuts to my Blizzards too.<br /><br />I don't know why it is...but I think that she is one of the biggest reasons we keep going back there!Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-44650439437796322682010-11-12T14:29:00.007-07:002010-11-12T15:55:54.223-07:00<center><h1>The 72 Oz. Challenge</h1></center><br />Well I told you that we, (my buddies and I), were going to attempt the Big Texan 72 oz. Steak Challenge. Basically you have to eat a 72 oz. steak, a baked potato, a roll, salad and 3 pieces of breaded shrimp. If you complete it in 60 minutes, the meal is free, plus you get a t-shirt proclaiming that you succeeded in the challenge. If you don't complete it, you still get a shirt that says you tried...and you have to pay $72.<br /><br />So four of us went for it. None of us completed it. Eric put in the best performance, eating almost 3/4ths of the steak, plus most of the sides. The rest of us, Jason, Jason, and I, finished half of our steaks, plus our sides.<br /><br />The biggest thing that killed me was the chewing, (my jaws hurt so bad!), and the texture of the meat after 36 oz of steak passing through my mouth. At the end of the hour, I could still fit some more food in my stomach...I just couldn't chew it.<br /><br />But I am glad that I tried. How often do you get to make the attempt?<br /><br />And here, for your viewing pleasure, are some pictures courtesy of our friend Jay:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TN23t94kpII/AAAAAAAABVg/hthA16AY_1k/s1600/Outside.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TN23t94kpII/AAAAAAAABVg/hthA16AY_1k/s320/Outside.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538785117069419650" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Outside the Big Texan</div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TN23u0zsixI/AAAAAAAABVo/qj3E7rAiit4/s1600/Filling%2BOut%2BForms.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TN23u0zsixI/AAAAAAAABVo/qj3E7rAiit4/s320/Filling%2BOut%2BForms.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538785131812915986" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Signing the release forms</div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TN23vaJT2NI/AAAAAAAABVw/T-hwj8FQH-I/s1600/The%2BSteaks.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TN23vaJT2NI/AAAAAAAABVw/T-hwj8FQH-I/s320/The%2BSteaks.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538785141835684050" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">The steaks cooking</div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TN26OBlI5LI/AAAAAAAABWI/Lk4HQA6a3_M/s1600/The%2BRules.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TN26OBlI5LI/AAAAAAAABWI/Lk4HQA6a3_M/s320/The%2BRules.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538787866840720562" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Hearing the Rules</div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TN26NUg2AmI/AAAAAAAABWA/oY4r-I_3-f8/s1600/Eating.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TN26NUg2AmI/AAAAAAAABWA/oY4r-I_3-f8/s320/Eating.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538787854743110242" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">The Challenge!</div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TN26MiYfBlI/AAAAAAAABV4/r8iDyWHaZ54/s1600/The%2BEnd.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TN26MiYfBlI/AAAAAAAABV4/r8iDyWHaZ54/s320/The%2BEnd.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538787841286276690" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">The end of the line</div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TN28C2xFQxI/AAAAAAAABWY/TveA-1iU_Y0/s1600/Shirts.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TN28C2xFQxI/AAAAAAAABWY/TveA-1iU_Y0/s320/Shirts.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538789873982718738" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">Our shirts</div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TN28CBEVSLI/AAAAAAAABWQ/VgE4JYKCNkI/s1600/Good%2BBye.JPG"><img style="text-align: left;display: block; margin-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; margin-bottom: 10px; margin-left: auto; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 213px; " src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TN28CBEVSLI/AAAAAAAABWQ/VgE4JYKCNkI/s320/Good%2BBye.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538789859567945906" /></a><br /><center>Leaving with our heads held high</center>Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-71372683246649994542010-11-10T20:46:00.008-07:002010-11-10T21:17:41.424-07:00<center><h1>The Burger From He**</h1></center><br />Several years ago a television show called, "Man vs. Food" premiered. It is basically a show where the host, Adam, goes around to various restaurants to take on their local food challenges. Some of them are spicy and hot, and some of them are just large and voluminous.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNtrVtEvfGI/AAAAAAAABVI/DrwhHheKRd8/s1600/man%2Bvs%2Bfood.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 247px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNtrVtEvfGI/AAAAAAAABVI/DrwhHheKRd8/s320/man%2Bvs%2Bfood.png" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538138187403066466" /></a><br /><br />The very first episode that I saw was filmed in Amarillo, TX, (which happens to be about 80 miles from where I am right now). In the episode, Adam took on two challenges that have stuck out in my mind ever since.<br />The first was the Burger From Hell. At the Coyote Bluff Cafe, they take a half pound beef patty, put on a full cup of fresh jalapeños, a Habanero pepper sauce, and Tabasco Sauce. Then a large amount of cheese is melted over the whole thing to trap all the heat in. Add a little lettuce and tomato, and you have the Burger From Hell.<br />Ever since I saw that episode, I have wanted to eat that burger.<br />My first attempt to eat it happened back in October. We came out to Amarillo with the specific intent to eat this burger. We arrived at the opening time, sat down, and without hesitation, I told the waitress that I wanted a Burger From Hell. She told me they were missing one of the ingredients and that it wouldn't taste the same, (specifically the Habanaro pepper sauce). I consoled myself with a Green Chile Burger, saddened by the fact that I wasn't going to fulfill my goal that day.<br />But lament not! My chance at redemption came yesterday, November 9, 2010. <br />We drove in to Amarillo, once again with the goal of going to the Coyote Bluff Cafe. We arrived on time, sat down, and once again, ordered the burger. This time we had success!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNtrVadsTCI/AAAAAAAABVA/1LLJSzx0Cno/s1600/BurgerFromHell.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 180px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNtrVadsTCI/AAAAAAAABVA/1LLJSzx0Cno/s320/BurgerFromHell.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538138182407441442" /></a><br /><br />The burger was fantastic. I won't lie...it was very, very hot. But it also was very, very good. It seems that whenever something goes to one extreme, such as heat, something else is sacrificed, such as taste. But that was not the case here. This burger, despite kicking my heat sensors off the charts, was delicious!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNtt5lXNdFI/AAAAAAAABVY/d6acdyyWQ-o/s1600/010.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNtt5lXNdFI/AAAAAAAABVY/d6acdyyWQ-o/s320/010.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538141002831590482" /></a><br /><br />If you are ever in the Amarillo, TX area, I highly recommend that you try this burger.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNtt5WBa4wI/AAAAAAAABVQ/DlT7XILNfiI/s1600/015.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNtt5WBa4wI/AAAAAAAABVQ/DlT7XILNfiI/s320/015.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538140998713664258" /></a><br /><br />Tomorrow, I and my buddies will be attempting the OTHER challenge that was featured on "Man vs. Food". At the Big Texan Restaurant, they offer a 72 Oz. Steak Dinner Challenge. You have to eat the steak (72 oz.), a baked potato, salad, roll and three pieces of shrimp. If you eat it all in an hour, it is free. If not...it costs $72.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNtrVQH4nAI/AAAAAAAABU4/SJiZR8PlFIw/s1600/BigTexan.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 230px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNtrVQH4nAI/AAAAAAAABU4/SJiZR8PlFIw/s320/BigTexan.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538138179631619074" /></a><br /><br />Either way you get a t-shirt. One that says you succeeded...and one that says you tried.<br /><br />If you want to watch, they have a live Internet feed. Go to <a href="http://www.bigtexan.com">www.bigtexan.com</a> and watch us around 5:30 PM MST. We are going to be there around 5:00, but it takes about a half hour to cook the steak.<br /><br />Wish me luck!Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-57566953120652425312010-11-10T19:31:00.003-07:002010-11-10T20:45:59.756-07:00<center><h1>The 3 A's</center></h1><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNtksJmi_EI/AAAAAAAABUY/meM8x3KOcdE/s1600/AAA%2Blogo.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 196px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNtksJmi_EI/AAAAAAAABUY/meM8x3KOcdE/s320/AAA%2Blogo.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5538130876436773954" /></a><br /><br />This is just an interesting little tidbit into my social life...specifically what happened last week in said social life.<br />As many of you know, back in Sept., I had just started seeing a girl in my ward. We went out several times, she had amazing kids, and for the most part...(at least as far as I could tell), things were going swimmingly.<br />Apparently, I was mistaken.<br />I went on a trip to Texas, and while out punching holes deep into the ground, I never heard one word from this girl. Despite two phone calls, (one voicemail), one e-mail and one text message spread over a two week period, (any more and I would have been crossing the line into Stalker); I never received any sort of response.<br />Now, I knew that she was busy with school, so I gave her the benefit of the doubt and assumed that upon my return, things would pick up again and life in the dating world would be bliss.<br />Almost a full week back in Utah...and I hadn't heard or seen her. I had hopes that when I turned up at church that Sunday...things would all make sense. And they did...but not in the way I expected.<br />While sitting in the chapel waiting for the services to begin, she came walking in, big smile on her face, laughing and holding on to...another guy.<br /><br />Have you ever had a 5-6 year old child run at you full bore and nail you in the stomach/groin with his or her head...because that is at just the right height?<br />That's what I felt like when I saw her walk in. If I hadn't had the responsibility to teach Elder's Quorum that day, I would have walked out right then and attended a different ward.<br />But I didn't. And the lesson went well. It was on patience. It was appropriate. Especially considering my dating life and attempts to work towards marriage.<br /><br />I went home after church and declared for all the Facebook world to see that I had given up. I was done. I had given everything that I had to my efforts at following the Lord's will (and His commandments), to get married...but obviously, nothing has panned out. So I decided that I was done. I would continue to do what is right, stay active in Church and put forth my best efforts towards work, family and friends. But efforts to date were completely shut off. In a very personal moment with the Lord, I promised Him that I would keep my eyes open, but hoped that He would guide me to the right place...at the right time...according to His will.<br /><br />After that, I felt at peace that everything was going to be ok. Life is still good, and that girl didn't know what she had passed by. Despite my serious lack of follicle supply on my noggin...I still have a lot to offer.<br /><br />So I pressed forward. I found many things to enjoy and partake in. But I also saw that the Lord wasn't going to let me rest on my laurels for long.<br /><br />I have a very close friend, whom I very much enjoy spending time with. We met through unusual circumstances as she was dating my cousin for quite some time. During their relationship, she and I built a very solid friendship ourselves. Her name is Ashli. I've mentioned her before when I gave a shout out to <a href="http://thebreathbeforethephrase.blogspot.com/">her blog</a>. <br /><br />Ashli is one of my best friends...and at a time when I was avoiding the whole dating scene, she was there to keep me from holing myself into my Man Cave and shunning all social interaction. She got me out on the town, and I hope she knows how much I appreciate that.<br /><br />So the Friday following that Sunday when I gave up...she and I went out to dinner and a movie and I was able to not dwell on anything of ill will, but rather enjoy the night. Thanks Ashli.<br /><br />A few days later I was on my way home from Indiana and got a text from another friend, who wanted to set me up on a blind date. I will be honest, (and she, my friend doesn't know this...but), I almost said no. However, because of the respect I have for my friend...I agreed to a lunch date. She helped make the arrangements, and on that Wednesday I took out her co-worker...a girl named Ashley.<br /><br />I actually had a very good time with Ashley. We went to lunch at a new restaurant in Provo called Molly's. I am glad that I didn't decline. Thank you Hayley my friend...and Ashley.<br /><br />Finally, on Thursday evening, (the next day), I normally go to Institute because a great man named Thomas Monson, said that I should make it a priority. However, before getting to that, my cousin got married, so I attended the reception. It is always a grand time to see and visit family...especially those that give me a hard time about still being single. (Love you Uncle Joe) The reception was a lot of fun. It did however, put me behind schedule for making it to Institute on time. As I was rushing over to the Church building, another friend, Jon, called me up to chat. I can never say no to him...so we talked for about 45 minutes. Yes...I was REALLY late at this point.<br /><br />While he and I were talking though, a young woman pulled into the parking lot, and jumping from her car, wearing her running clothes, she rushed passed me into the church. Two things went through my head at this point: 1) This girl must have the wrong Institute class, as it is for people 30 and older...and this girl looked MUCH younger than that, and 2) She had a really nice smile...because she smile directly at me. So I noticed it.<br /><br />Anyway, 10 minutes or so later, I finished my phone call and went into the building. As I walked up to the classroom, I saw that the young woman who had passed me earlier was standing outside the room, listening through the door. I went to a second door and gestured to wards it, implying the question of whether she would join me or not. She politely waved a decline, and I entered into the classroom alone. There was only one chair in the back available, and I made myself comfortable with the last 15 minutes of class.<br /><br />About 2 minutes later, the young woman from the hall came through the same door I had offered her earlier...(she must be independently minded)...and as there were no chairs available, (other than the front row...which NOBODY ever wants), I quickly stood up, offering her my chair and grabbed another one from the stack in the corner.<br /><br />Guess what! She accepted my offer!<br /><br />Class continued on for the last few minutes left, and it was a very good lesson. At the conclusion of class I turned to this girl sitting next to me and teased her about finally coming in, rather than hovering outside the door. In her defense, she said that she could hear the lesson just fine until some kids started causing a ruckus in the hallway, and that was why she came in. However, I like to think that she really came in hoping that a seat would be available near that handsome bald guy that just went in.<br /><br />Anyway, we talked for quite a while, mostly about food and England, before I finally asked her for her name.<br /><br />Ashlee.<br /><br />I had to stop myself from saying, "Of course it is."<br /><br />And that is the story of the three A's, Ashli, Ashley and Ashlee.Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-27184323943777406482010-11-08T21:56:00.003-07:002010-11-08T22:22:14.379-07:00<center><h1>Travel</center></h1><br />Considering how often I travel, it was inevitable that things such as this were bound to happen to me. However, one would expect that these things would probably be spread out over a larger time frame than, "all in the same trip".<br />First of all, let me do my childish lament about losing my Platinum Status in January. Because of the way certain trips have fallen, not all of them have been of the sort to give me more Frequent Flyer Miles. Sadly...come January, I will be reverted back to a more "common" status. I know I should NOT complain, as I have been very, very blessed in my life, especially when it comes to being able to see the world. However, when you get pampered for a long time...it is hard to let go.<br />Ok...lamenting aside. Let's get to the adventure.<br /><br />So I am back in Texas, and happy to be here. But let's back track a bit to Saturday, as I was getting ready for this trip. Because it was such an early morning flight, the shuttle was scheduled to pick me up between 4:30 AM and 5:00 AM. They have been known to show up earlier, so I figured, rather than chance missing them, (especially with Day Light Savings starting up), I would just stay awake all night. It is a common practice that I have started doing, just so I can sleep on the plane.<br />So I stay up...finish packing...read...work on an expense report...and finally, just sit and stare at the wall until 4:31. At this point I get a phone call from the shuttle company. They cheerily inform me that the shuttle driver has locked his keys in his car and is unable to pick me up. However, the 5:30 AM shuttle should be able to get me to the airport on time.<br />That will be fine.<br />So I wait around another hour and 15 minutes until the shuttle finally arrives. Hooray!<br />Fortunately, this driver had a lead foot and we got to the airport with 51 minutes before my flight is supposed to take off. The airline does not allow anyone to check in after 45 before the flight. I checked in with 47 minutes to go. Now to security!<br />Being a seasoned traveler, I have security line processes down to an art form. I can have everything ready and get through the check points without slowing down the line.<br />However, as I walked through the metal detector and saw my fellow traveler just beyond the barriers, one of the TSA agents stepped forward and informed me that I had been selected for a random screening and pat down.<br />Greeeeaat.<br />So they pick up my backpack, shoes and coat and escort me to the side of security and begin to wipe down my belongings with their super-special explosive checking cloths. These cloths are then ran through a machine that tells if any chemicals that MAY be explosive are found.<br />They also get to do a pretty intrusive pat-down to yours truly.<br />Things were running along swimmingly...I consented to the search as I had nothing to hide, and I could see my buddy a few yards away just laughing it up. The TSA agents were very friendly, and I honestly think they were more uncomfortable than I was.<br />So we start finishing up, my belongings checked out clean, and the pat down had just completed. The final step was swabbing the gloves that were used for the pat down, and seeing if any chemicals were found there.<br />The security guys were thanking me for my cooperation and willingness to work with them...and then the alarms went off.<br />Everyone froze and a supervisor was motioned to come over. I was told that SOMETHING from my pat down had set off the explosive chemical alarm. There was going to be another pat down...this time, even more intrusive. And it would be conducted in a private screening room, (instead of the public setting in which I found myself).<br />So once again I was escorted aside and taken into The Room. Now this search was not the horrific, "Welcome To Prison" type search you may be imagining. But regardless, the security agents were very, very nervous. A new set of gloves was pulled out and the pat down began. I think in some of the bad parts of Vegas, you would have to pay for the services that I got for free. <br />Finally, the tests were ran again on the gloves...and this time they came back clean. I have no idea how I would have explained myself to my bosses if I ended up on a No-Fly list. Fortunately, I had nothing to worry about.<br />It was at this point that I was allowed to put my shoes back on, grab my bag and run as quickly as I could to our gate that was already boarding. My buddy laughed and pointed at me the entire run. But we made our flight.<br />Of course I didn't sleep the entire time, and when we arrived in Denver...I tried to nap during our layover.<br />Once we got to Oklahoma we were able to get our rental car and drive into Shamrock, TX...which is where I am now.<br /><br />Yahoo! And Thank You TSA...for all your hard, and uncomfortable work!Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-16816377887428955032010-11-08T21:04:00.009-07:002010-11-18T21:32:57.804-07:00<h1><center>And here we go again...</center></h1><br />I will just warn you up front that this is going to be a long post. Life really is worth living and I am trying to pack the most of it into the time that I have.<br />Let's backtrack a few weeks to when I first got home from Texas. As you know from my last post, I was out helping with a new well in the Panhandle area of northern Texas. I can happily say that everything on that went far more smoothly than any of us ever could have hoped for.<br />The best part of getting home was getting to meet for the first time, my new niece, Phoebe. She was born to Bridgett and Rory while I was away...and this was my first chance to hold her. She is beautiful. And has far more hair than I do.<br />When I got home to Utah, I took the first few days to catch up on bills and whatnot. I always enjoy fossicking around the untouched piles of unattended items and seeing how my life still continues to plod forward, even when I am not around for it.<br />That Wednesday, feeling some pains in my neck and lower back, I sought out a massage therapist and had my first, official massage. My cousin Laura recommended her friend that lived locally, and let me tell you...it was amazing! I felt so much better afterwards. I think this is going to become a regular occurrence.<br />It's a good thing I was relaxed because that evening the Lifferths all gathered together in Provo to celebrate Grandma Lifferth's 90th birthday party. As has become tradition, the grandkids (and mostly great-grandkids), put together a talent show for all the residents of the home. Due to traffic, our usual MC for such events, (Uncle Bob), was delayed in his arrival. And as it was almost time for most of our geriatric crowd to go to bed, (you know...6:00 PM), I was asked to step in as the new MC. If you know me at all, you know I quite enjoy being the center of attention...especially with a microphone. I jumped at the opportunity. We had a wonderful show with many musical numbers, poems, and football tossing skills. The highlight though, was the only act that was done by anyone over the age of 13. It was the magic show done by Craig and Daren. It was fantastic!<br />After we all wished her a happy birthday and wished Grandma a good night, it still being Wednesday, meant only one thing:<br /><br /><center>Trafalga Night!!</center><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNjSrYOVPQI/AAAAAAAABTY/1-WVeckshgQ/s1600/Trafalga.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 162px; height: 145px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNjSrYOVPQI/AAAAAAAABTY/1-WVeckshgQ/s320/Trafalga.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537407384530795778" /></a><br /><br />Quite a few of us who hang out all the time, all bought season passes. So it was a long night of go-karts, batting cages, mini-golf and the XD-Virtual Roller Coaster! It was fantastic.<br />On Friday I drove out to Colorado and back. A local community college was naming their new engineering building after my Granddad Striegel. We were invited to attend the grand ribbon cutting, (and had the honor of standing in the picture of said cutting). It was so wonderful to visit with family and see all of them. I love those guys.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNjSrhN51QI/AAAAAAAABTg/8NDkIWe8w-Q/s1600/CNCC.GIF"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 270px; height: 80px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNjSrhN51QI/AAAAAAAABTg/8NDkIWe8w-Q/s320/CNCC.GIF" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537407386944918786" /></a><br /><br />The next morning, (having gotten back from Colorado for a date the night before), we awoke to Saturday Morning Football! Now that cousin Scott and his family are back in town, football has started up again. And once again, we all realized how much out of shape (and older) we are. But still...so much fun.<br />Sunday was great as usual. I made it down to Payson to visit the family. I really do enjoy Sunday Dinners.<br />The next few days were filled with a variety of visits with family and friends. That is until Wednesday when I got to fly out to Indiana and visit my brother Noah and his family.<br />Obviously the first thing I had to do was re-establish my position as "Favorite Uncle". So I pulled out the big guns...how big you ask? The biggest. I found on Amazon (dot com), the World's Largest Gummy Bear. It is 5 pounds of pure awesomeness. I brought three of them. One for Gabby, one for Alex and one for Oliver. I am sure Kaila was quite happy that her children now had a year's supply of Gummy.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNjSsET1p8I/AAAAAAAABTw/sxUejdvQLeg/s1600/gummy_bear_450x475.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 303px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNjSsET1p8I/AAAAAAAABTw/sxUejdvQLeg/s320/gummy_bear_450x475.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537407396365051842" /></a><br /><br />Thursday I got to go into Noah's work and get a tour of the facility where he works. Cummins Diesel Engines have a very, very impressive set up in Columbus Indiana. I was grateful for the opportunity to see how they operate and everything they have donated and contributed to the Columbus Community.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNjSr6D7QsI/AAAAAAAABTo/kf_lELkJU_o/s1600/Cummins.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 231px; height: 218px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNjSr6D7QsI/AAAAAAAABTo/kf_lELkJU_o/s320/Cummins.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537407393613955778" /></a><br /><br />On Friday we went to Louisville, KY. There we first toured the Louisville Slugger museum/factory. If you are a baseball fan, you must make a trip to this place at least once in your life. Besides the souvenir bat that you receive at the end of the tour, you can also try the batting cages, hold one of Mickey Mantle's bats, and see what a 90 mph fastball really looks like. I think the best part was as we were going through the factory, they were actually in the process of making bats for the World Series that had just started. A piece of wood from one of the bats came off the lathe and landed near me, and is now at home on my dresser.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNjTocfzouI/AAAAAAAABUA/eoYoMTbU9AQ/s1600/louisville-slugger-museum.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 256px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNjTocfzouI/AAAAAAAABUA/eoYoMTbU9AQ/s320/louisville-slugger-museum.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537408433649853154" /></a><br /><br />We then went to visit my cousin Austin and his wonderful family. After being so hospitable with feeding us and entertaining us, they also invited us to their Ward's Trunk-Or-Treat. What a great time we had with the members of the church there in the backwoods of Kentucky! They were very kind and welcoming.<br />Saturday we had the chance to drive up to Indianapolis and see the big city. We toured around downtown, and then went to the Indy 500 Racecar track. We actually got a chance to ride ON the track. That was SO COOL!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNjToEVP4lI/AAAAAAAABT4/6OQ3qKdemfE/s1600/Indy%2B500.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNjToEVP4lI/AAAAAAAABT4/6OQ3qKdemfE/s320/Indy%2B500.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537408427163116114" /></a><br /><br />But not quite as cool as what happened on Monday.<br />Sunday we had a great time visiting and seeing their neighbors. I also had the chance to go spend some time with Uncle Ernie and Aunt Judy. Ernie took me out to some property they had where they have campouts and picnics. What beautiful countryside out there! I am very grateful for the opportunity I had to spend time with Ernie. Much like all of my uncles, he is a great man.<br />On Monday we (Noah and his family, and I), went into Cincinnati before I flew home. We first found the ONLY ventriloquist museum in the world. Sadly, it was closed...so there was no fodder fed to the creepy nightmare supplies. However, it was cool to be there. We then walked across a bridge, (across the Ohio River) that was used to model the Brooklyn Bridge. On the way back across, there was a large barge passing under us. So we stopped to watch it. Kaila wondered aloud if the barge captain would honk his horn if we pumped our fist (much like you do when a semi-truck is coming towards you). I answered her that there was only one way to find out. And guess what...the Captain didn't disappoint.<br />I am pretty sure that the horn blare was heard throughout most of the city of Cincinnati. It was so incredibly loud. However, despite the volume, while the kids were holding their hands over their ears, they were still exclaiming, "THIS IS SO COOL!!"<br />And it was.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNjTo8IuEoI/AAAAAAAABUQ/lYC_iOCXbQI/s1600/River%2BBarge.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNjTo8IuEoI/AAAAAAAABUQ/lYC_iOCXbQI/s320/River%2BBarge.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537408442142954114" /></a><br /><br />Sadly, the time came that I had to fly home. As we were pulling into the terminal, Alex started to get emotional in the backseat. Kaila asked him what the matter was. Between sobs, he replied, "I don't want Uncle Zach to leave...he helped me get to level 5 in Paper Mario."<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNjTosk0etI/AAAAAAAABUI/kwyj6nsZkdE/s1600/Paper%2BMario.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 270px; height: 187px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TNjTosk0etI/AAAAAAAABUI/kwyj6nsZkdE/s320/Paper%2BMario.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5537408437965847250" /></a><br /><br />I almost cried myself.<br /><br />I really had such an amazing time with Noah, Kaila and the kids. They were so nice to have me and really showed me a great time. Thanks guys!<br /><br />When I got home, it was once again CRAZY time. I knew I was flying out again on Sunday, so I still had much to do.<br />Wednesday I got another massage.<br />Wednesday was also a monumental day in that I went to the dentist. I won't lie...this is a huge deal as I hadn't been to the dentist in over 9 years. You can imagine, that with my regular intake of Dr. Pepper, I was expecting some bad news. I was waiting for the lecture on my Swiss Cheese teeth when the doctor returned and congratulated me for having zero cavities. I asked him if he was sure and then told him how long it had been since I had visited one of his profession. He assured me that he knew what he was doing, then proceeded to lecture me about the importance of regular dentist visits. I promised him I would do better.<br />Wednesday night was, of course, Trafalga Night. This time we went to the one in Lehi and quite enjoyed the bumper boats and Laser Tag.<br />Thursday my cousin Adam married a wonderful young lady named Jamie, and I was very glad to attend their reception and see a lot of family.<br />Friday I went to lunch with two of my best friends, (Jon and Todd). We found a great new BBQ place down on Geneva Road in Orem. You simply MUST try it...unless you are a vegetarian...in which case you should slam your head against a wall until you realize that meat is delicious, then go try it.<br />Saturday was football again....and then bright and early Sunday Morning, I was off to Texas.<br />Now the observant reader may have noted a significant lack of dating stories. That's because I am throwing that into a separate post. Read on friend...read on.Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-59999267845674978232010-10-15T06:39:00.004-06:002010-10-15T06:49:25.811-06:00<h1><center>Satisfaction...</h1></center><br />Have you ever come off of one of those work shifts where you are already in your 30th overtime hour, every impossible scenario that no one thought would ever happen...did, and you were the one in charge?<br /><br />I just had one of those shifts.<br /><br />But as I walked away from the tower this morning, all "fires" now under control, with my shoulders drooping just a bit from exhaustion, I pulled off my hard hat with a dirty, gloved hand, turned and saw the sun just starting to begin the day breaking a purple, red and orange dawn across the Texas plains. At that moment, I knew that today was a whole new day and that everything was going to be all right.<br /><br />Now that...is a feeling of satisfaction.<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TLhNZ3xbl8I/AAAAAAAABTQ/SDPf1wkpLfQ/s1600/Sunrise.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 217px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TLhNZ3xbl8I/AAAAAAAABTQ/SDPf1wkpLfQ/s320/Sunrise.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5528253649460631490" /></a>Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-75777670582826130892010-10-12T02:15:00.004-06:002010-10-12T02:26:06.251-06:00<center><h1>And…TIME!</center></h1><br />And time! Wow…that was tough. I want to thank you for your participation with me in this, the longest hiatus I have ever taken from blogging. I won’t lie; it was tough. There were times that I almost broke down and posted a blog. There was the night that I was hob-knobbing with a hobo, (Wow! What a night that was!). And who can forget the trip to Seven Peaks Resort? Not to mention my new challenge of Super Mario Galaxy 2. But I knew that you, my fans and readers, were holding strong. It was with this knowledge that I was able to draw from your strength and push through this sabbatical from the online world. So thank you for helping me through this. Now that it is over, we can continue where we left off.<br><br />So the last time we convened here in Blogspot, I was in Louisiana helping to save the world. No worries…we did. The world is fine. Granted, it is a little worse for the wear, but Mother Nature is a resilient old Gaia and she is going to be just fine.<br />One night, not long after my excursion in the Gulf, I was in downtown Provo enjoying a live performance of “A Boy And His Balloon”. After the show, I went outside to University Avenue and found that my car wouldn’t start. It seemed that the starter was out. While I waited for the tow truck, I sat down on the street bench next to one of our local celebrities in the Bindle World, that of The Old Man with the Shopping Cart. For those of you who frequent the Provo area, you no doubt have seen this gentleman of senior age as he wanders north and south pushing his cart up and down the Ave. He had decided to rest from his daily travels right next to my broken down car. He immediately engaged me in conversation, specifically about my car. He launched into a comparison of my car’s specs and held them up in juxtaposition to similar cars of that category. The width and breadth of his knowledge was quite impressive.<br />From the car discussion, he transitioned into a discussion of politics, tax laws and investments. Due to the lack of anyone else to converse with, I half-heartedly paid attention to what he was saying. As he continued on this rigmarole of pecuniary topics, I realized that he sure seemed to know a lot about these things. It was then that I noticed he was wearing an Omega watch on his left hand. Whether it was a knock-off or not…I was impressed at his choice of chronograph. It left me scratching my head as the tow truck showed up to deliver my hobbled vehicle to the shop, wondering what events in this man’s life had lead him to this bench on this night. I hope to talk with him again someday.<br><br />I bought a motorcycle. No really…I did. I have wanted to buy one for some time. In fact, not too long ago, the following conversation took place between me and my mother:<br />Me: So I want to buy a motorcycle.<br />Mom: I forbid you from doing so. As long as you are my son, you can’t buy a motorcycle.<br />Me: But Mom…look at the facts- Dad owned a motorcycle, he got married. Noah owned a motorcycle, he got married. Gabe owned a motorcycle and he got married. (This continued on dragging into the mix uncles and cousins alike)<br />Mom: So what kind are you looking to get?<br />To be honest…I first looked at getting a new Tacoma. I miss my truck. However, the current price for a brand new, off-the-lot Tacoma was more than I was willing to shell out…so I went and bought a 2009 Honda Shadow Spirit (750). It is black and I am quite pleased with the purchase.<br><br />I went to the Seven Peaks Water Park just before Labor Day. I had forgotten how much fun that place is. However, I think we played it right by going after 6:00 (for a reduced price), in that we most definitely got the most out of our entrance fee.<br />The Orem Owlz put on a couple of good games that I was able to go to. To one, I took a lovely young woman and her two kids. I think that was the best game I went to this year.<br><br />Speaking of dates…around the beginning of September, I asked out a charming young lass, who accompanied me to a dinner of Vietnamese food, arcade games and a night of comedy. I had a wonderful time…but I think I may have moved too fast with her transitioning from Friends to a Date.<br><br />Yep…that’s all the detail you are getting on my dating life for now. Enjoy it.<br><br />Just before my birthday, I was able to go out to Oklahoma and Texas to help prepare for our next deployment for work. We were gone for about 3 days and ate at 3 different steakhouses. Downtown Oklahoma is actually a pretty cool place to hang out. We saw the American Banjo Museum (at least from the outside because it was closed). We walked down Flaming Lips Avenue and Mickey Mantle Blvd. We also got to eat at the Spaghetti Warehouse! The name says it all.<br><br />My birthday was fantastic. I thank all those who wished me a happy birthday. I really do have wonderful friends and family. They are also very generous.<br />The best part of my birthday was that I got to head out to Colorado with my cousin Jen, her family and Uncle Karl. We went to my Uncle Bud’s cabin and thoroughly enjoyed the entire place to just ourselves. The beauty of the autumnal foliage was absolutely stunning! It seemed that each day the colors became even more vivid and bright. We hiked, rode 4-wheelers, fished and just enjoyed the beauty of Nature. It was a really great weekend.<br><br />Finally…before I get to my current location…I bought the new Super Mario Galaxy 2 game. I am currently in the process of dominating it like I did the original.<br />And now I find myself just outside of Shamrock, TX. I am here for a couple weeks for work as we take on a pretty challenging deployment for work. If (or rather WHEN) everything goes well, this contract will be very promising for the company as a whole.<br><br />But boy, oh boy have I eaten a lot of steak out here.<br><br />Did you know the gas station that everyone congregated around in the animated movie, “Cars” was based on a real building? It’s here in Shamrock.<br><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TLQZcWp0IkI/AAAAAAAABTI/Sg1dcovLU8Y/s1600/GasStation.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 193px; height: 261px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TLQZcWp0IkI/AAAAAAAABTI/Sg1dcovLU8Y/s320/GasStation.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527070617598435906" /></a>Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-18272524835145253142010-07-19T14:47:00.003-06:002010-07-19T14:59:12.770-06:00<center><h1>In Other News...</h1></center><br />A few weeks ago we had our annual trip to Colorado for the 4th of July. These trips always proved to be full of four things:<br />1 - Family<br />2 - Food<br />3 - Fireworks<br />4 - Funny Stories<br /><br />This year was no exception. Besides lighting off one firework that was called, "The Instigator", (that was 2 feet wide and 8 feet long), I came away with a fantastic Max Story.<br /><br />Max is my nephew. He is 3 years old, and one of the most conversationalist people you will EVER meet. If you engage him in talking, bracket out about an hour of your day to follow through with him.<br /><br />Now, because he is still only 3 years old, there are two things that you would rightly assume about him. The first is that he is very inquisitive, constantly asking questions to learn about everything around him. The second thing is that he is still pretty impressionable and you have to be careful what you tell him. Here is a case in point.<br /><br />We were driving from one place to another and I happened to be in the back seat with young Max enjoying the day. He was all safe, all snug in his car seat and I was reading a book called, "Consent to Kill" by Vince Flynn. (Excellent book if you like the whole counter-terrorism genre).<br /><br />Max saw that I was deeply immersed into my book, so he asked what I was reading. As I started to tell him the title, his wise father, Erik spoke over me and told Max that the title of the book was "Consent to Tickle."<br /><br />This seemed to satisfy Max for a total of 2 seconds. He then asked, "What's it about Uncle Zach?"<br /><br />I proceeded to tell him that one man had been paid a lot of money to go and tickle another man, but the other man did NOT want to be tickled at all. Sadly, the second man's wife was tickled instead and he was not happy. Not in the least. So he set out to tickle the first man.<br /><br />Erik then interjected his comments regarding my synopsis of the book. He said, "Way to go Zach...you took it from violence to homo-erotic."<br /><br />I'll never get it right.<br /><br />On another note, let me invite you to check out my Aunt's new blog:<br> <br /><center><a href="http://wildoatsandaprons.blogspot.com/">Wild Oats and Aprons</a></center> <br />My Aunt Tanna has put together a lot of whole-grain and healthy type recipes. I don't cook outside of microwave and....well...that's it. But if you have any interest in cooking healthy at all...check out the blog.Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-72593130342718716132010-07-17T21:44:00.005-06:002010-07-17T22:13:54.845-06:00<center><h1>Random Thoughts</center></h1><br />I'm currently sitting in the Days Inn of Galliano, LA. <a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TEJ92lgT1XI/AAAAAAAABS0/YroZDMm33GY/s1600/Louisiana.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 251px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TEJ92lgT1XI/AAAAAAAABS0/YroZDMm33GY/s320/Louisiana.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495092872079463794" /></a> I've been down here for just over a week, enjoying the humidity and heat that is The South. Surprisingly, I have never actually been this far south in the States, and have quite enjoyed learning about this whole new world that, (frankly put), most people don't understand. The biggest thing that I have come to finally understand is the term, "Southern Hospitatlity". It is truly amazing how nice these people are.<br />The other day, my buddy and I were in the laundromat getting some clothes cleaned, and a couple of local ladies that were there doing their own loads came over and asked us if we would like to join them for lunch, as they had brough way too much for just themselves. We had just finished a big meal, so we politely declined. However, they came back 4 times to make sure we weren't hungry.<br /><br />I was telling this story to one of the guys down here that we have been working with, a local, and he kind of laughed when I told him how genuinely NICE these ladies had been. He then said, "Well...we really don't know any other way to be down here."<br /><br />It's really impressive how they have taken the Savior's teaching of "Love Thy Neighbor" to heart.<br /><br />Some other things I have been up to include:<br /><center>I've been on the Tabasco Tour (twice).</center><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TEJ84wrREvI/AAAAAAAABR8/pdGngOeRig0/s1600/Zach_Tabasco_Sign.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TEJ84wrREvI/AAAAAAAABR8/pdGngOeRig0/s320/Zach_Tabasco_Sign.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495091809926320882" /></a><br /><center>I've seen alligators in the wild.</center><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TEJ85O9xUyI/AAAAAAAABSE/Oz-y4WzRfg0/s1600/Gators.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TEJ85O9xUyI/AAAAAAAABSE/Oz-y4WzRfg0/s320/Gators.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495091818056995618" /></a><br /><center>I've been eaten by a large, novelty alligator.</center><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TEJ85hAThBI/AAAAAAAABSM/hayuTRuroAM/s1600/Gator+Bite.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TEJ85hAThBI/AAAAAAAABSM/hayuTRuroAM/s320/Gator+Bite.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495091822899463186" /></a><br /><center>Tried some amazing Cajun/Southern/Bayou foods, (i.e. crawfish, boudin, cracklins', shrimp, alligator, etc.)</center><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TEJ9YyzjgAI/AAAAAAAABSU/KYl_33waXXM/s1600/Cajun.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 305px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TEJ9YyzjgAI/AAAAAAAABSU/KYl_33waXXM/s320/Cajun.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495092360253767682" /></a><br /><center>And I am currently playing a role in helping stop some oil leak that occurred down here a couple months ago.</center><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TEJ9ZW_2wWI/AAAAAAAABSc/L22WD_frrxI/s1600/Gulf+Leak.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 207px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TEJ9ZW_2wWI/AAAAAAAABSc/L22WD_frrxI/s320/Gulf+Leak.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495092369969037666" /></a><br />Yes, it's true...I lead quite the life.<br /><br />From the personal aspect of life, you probably already know that I am once again single. I wish I could convey to you exactly what happened...but I am at a loss for words. There is nothing even remotely bad that I could say about Rebekah. She is a wonderful, caring, fantastic person. It just didn't work out.<br /><br />Since then, I have taken a sabbatical from dating. A week or so after I became single, a friend of mine wanted to set me up. At first I was gung-ho about it, but after the initial suggestion, I started feeling sick about dating. It had nothing to do with the person I was getting set up with...heck, I didn't even meet her or learn much about her besides her name and age. I just couldn't stomach the idea of dating again.<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TEJ9Z0unkLI/AAAAAAAABSk/bUgiNnNcPUY/s1600/Broken+Heart.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 295px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TEJ9Z0unkLI/AAAAAAAABSk/bUgiNnNcPUY/s320/Broken+Heart.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495092377949802674" /></a><br />I've tried. I have given everything I can think of to trying to find someone to settle down with. I have tried jumping in with both feet...I have tried being aloof. I have heard that it's when you DON'T expect it, that things happen, so I went about not expecting it. I have prayed for it, sought for it, chased it, and was chased by it. Save a two year break where I served a mission, I have given 18 years to the dating game...and I don't even want to know how much money I have spent.<br /><br />So for now...I am done. If you ask to set me up, expect my answer to be "No". It is nothing personal...it's just the way things are for now. I need to do this for me.<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TEJ9aBePu7I/AAAAAAAABSs/ZCmbKxCdJxI/s1600/Budda_Seat.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TEJ9aBePu7I/AAAAAAAABSs/ZCmbKxCdJxI/s320/Budda_Seat.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495092381370792882" /></a><br />That's all...I think I am going to read a book.Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-10756242514296175392010-06-22T14:32:00.005-06:002010-06-22T14:48:48.697-06:00<center><h1>Poison Ivy</h1></center><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TCEhGnwyuII/AAAAAAAABRs/MLTwhadogNI/s1600/uma_thurman-poison-ivy_002.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 222px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TCEhGnwyuII/AAAAAAAABRs/MLTwhadogNI/s320/uma_thurman-poison-ivy_002.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485702218750539906" /></a><br /><center>Not her</center><br />When I was in the 6th Grade, I had the great pleasure of learning first-hand what it is like to have poison ivy, and the itching and scratching and swelling, and pussing that goes with it...on my face.<br /><br />We still don't know how I got it all over my face, however, it was there...and it wasn't pleasant. My face was also swollen and misshapen. Not that it was ever that shapen to begin with.<br /><br />And yes...there is a picture out there somewhere, but darn it all, can't find it :)<br /><br />I recollect this now because a few days ago...Poison Ivy and I once again came together. I am pretty sure I know where and when it happened...however, as you will learn if you ever cross paths with this itchy vixen...the rash and itching will sometimes take up to 48 hours before showing up. At that point, you may have inadvertently spread it to other parts of your body.<br /><br />Fortunately, this round of rash-bashing has kept to a pretty minimal area on my right leg. I have been able to contain it by keeping it wrapped and dry, changing the dressing about every 12 hours. <br /><br />So I share with you today some words of advice if you ever come across Poison Ivy. First things first...if you know you have touched it, wash the area thoroughly. It is actually the oil from the plant that causes the rash and itching. This oil can remain potent up to a year after being brushed off of the plant. It is also located all over the plant, on leaves, stems, stalk and root.<br /><br />If you scratch before washing, the oil can get under your nails and then spread to wherever else you may touch with your fingers.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TCEgow-X5uI/AAAAAAAABRk/omOsqMX77vw/s1600/professional_etiquette_picking_nose.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 276px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TCEgow-X5uI/AAAAAAAABRk/omOsqMX77vw/s320/professional_etiquette_picking_nose.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485701705827346146" /></a><br />Don't pick your nose.<br /><br />That said...once the rash appears, and there really isn't much you can do to prevent it if you haven't washed thoroughly...is to just keep it clean. It will itch. It will blister. The blisters WILL pop. The area will be covered in yellow puss. Just keep cleaning it.<br /><br />Doctors can give you medication to help...but most of it is not as affective as you would hope.<br /><br />Best solution of all though...just don't mess with the stuff. It looks like this:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TCEhPF_TDDI/AAAAAAAABR0/ucYm6w8-Ib0/s1600/poison-ivy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TCEhPF_TDDI/AAAAAAAABR0/ucYm6w8-Ib0/s320/poison-ivy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485702364303395890" /></a><br />Remember, "Leaves of 3...let it be!"Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-80464429573300122972010-06-06T12:50:00.014-06:002010-06-06T14:17:41.103-06:00<center><h1>Taco Crawl</center></h1><br />Most of you know that I LOVE food. I am a huge fan of trying new things, and am always looking for great places with good food. Well, while I was down in Trinidad, I came across a new podcast that helps feed my love of cuisine. It's called <a href="http://vendr.tv/">Vendr.TV</a>. Basically the host goes around to different street vendors around the country and tries the different wares they have to offer. In one episode, he and a friend were in downtown L.A. with the sole purpose of trying several taco stands and finding which ones were best.<br /><br />Taking this as inspiration, my buddy Scott and I decided that we should have our own Taco Crawl. So yesterday I drove up to Salt Lake, and from 1:00 until 6:00 PM we ate tacos.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TAv9hVgDIoI/AAAAAAAABQk/XPF6cxiZQTw/s1600/Tacos.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TAv9hVgDIoI/AAAAAAAABQk/XPF6cxiZQTw/s320/Tacos.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479752120775418498" /></a><br />Scott had researched and mapped out any and all places that served tacos that he could find in the general area. There are a LOT of places you can get tacos.<br /><br />We ended up hitting eight (8) different tacos stands and establishments over those 5 hours. It was absolutely fantastic.<br /><br />While we were there, we took notes of the experience. So now I can happily share with you our impressions, along with pictures and information about each of the stands. Overall, I have to state that the general consensus was that those places that can't afford the nicer amenities and frills, had to rely on putting their all into their food. They made their food with love and care...they focused on flavor. The quality and taste were far superior in these "run-down" locations, as opposed to the nicer, "cleaner" establishments. All of the addresses are in Salt Lake or the Salt Lake area. They are listed in the order that we visited them. We ranked the tacos on a scale of 1 to 5 Shells, and have recommendations if you ever have a hankering for a taco. Oh and if you don't want to hassle with actually reading through all of these...my vote for the best location is # 5 on this list - Don Martin Street Cart. The address is below.<br /><br />Without further adieu:<br /><br />The Taco Crawl 2010<br /><br />1 - Sergio's - 900 West 200 South - (the building looks like a warehouse, and the door is about halfway down the north side)<br />Tacos cost $1 each and we both ordered 2.<br />Zachary - Ordered 1 Al Pastor (Spicy Pork) which was very good. It had really good flavor and reminded me a lot of the many tacos I used to eat in Southern California. I also got a Carnitas (Grilled Pork), which tasted pretty good, but was sort of dry.<br />Scott ordered an Asada (Beef) which he thought was pretty decent, and a Chorizo (Mexican Sausage), that he raved about for quite awhile. He seemed to have liked it.<br />The condiment selection was slightly limited, however, we did find that the Red Sauce had much better flavor than the Green Sauce.<br />Rankings - Al Pastor - 5 Shells, Carnitas - 3 Shells, Asada - 4 Shells, Chorizo - 5 Shells<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TAv9yR6s0-I/AAAAAAAABQs/xzNuHb2Sd5Q/s1600/Sergios.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TAv9yR6s0-I/AAAAAAAABQs/xzNuHb2Sd5Q/s320/Sergios.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479752411871237090" /></a><br />2 - Red Iguana 2 - 866 West 200 South<br />This establishment is more of a sit-down type restaurant with full entrees and free chips and salsa (which was very spicy, but great flavor). So the meals were a little more expensive.<br />Zachary - Ordered Traditional Tacos (2) - $8 - These were pretty decent tacos. With a choice between chicken or beef, I ordered both. Honestly, they were pretty commonplace as far as tacos go. They were good...but common. 3 - Shells<br />Scott - Ordered the Tacos A La Iguana (3) - $10 - These were very good tacos. They were a bit oily, but the flavor was fantastic, very strong. This also had the added bonus of melted cheese at the bottom of the shells, that was deliciously gooey. 5 - Shells<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TAv9-jTidoI/AAAAAAAABQ0/Yl3wXEogRZI/s1600/RedIguana2.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TAv9-jTidoI/AAAAAAAABQ0/Yl3wXEogRZI/s320/RedIguana2.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479752622697248386" /></a><br />3 - Don Rafa Street Cart - 800 South State Street, west side of Sears Parking Lot<br />This was our first "official" taco stand, as it was in fact, mobile. The people working the cart were very friendly and eager to help you without being overly pushy. They had a wonderful selection of condiments, with several types of salsa (which they happily pointed out which ones were hot and which ones were more mild), marinated carrots (of which I am a huge fan and Scott had never had before...but has been converted), and lots of lime wedges, (which are important for juice and flavor). We ordered just two tacos and shared them because our next stop was literally just around the corner. Tacos were 2 for $1.50.<br />Carnitas - This had decent flavor, but was very dry. 2 Shells<br />Barbacoa - (BBQ Pork) - This taco was delicious. It was tangy and flavorful with just the right amount of spice. The meat was very tender and moist. 4 - Stars<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TAv-In_-y4I/AAAAAAAABQ8/Unc3iAMO5ww/s1600/DonRafa.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TAv-In_-y4I/AAAAAAAABQ8/Unc3iAMO5ww/s320/DonRafa.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479752795756088194" /></a><br />4 - El Toro Street Cart - 800 South State Street, south side of Sears Parking Lot<br />This was another "official" taco stand that was also ran by some very friendly people. The condiment bar was not as plentiful as the last cart we had attended, it's greatest grievance was that it was lacking any lime wedges. However, the pico de gallo was fresh and crisp. Again we just ordered two tacos. Tacos were 2 for $1.50<br />Carnitas - The carnitas were starting to disappoint. This batch was pretty grisly...but it had a good salty, savory flavor. Still though, only 2 Shells.<br />Al Pastor - You can't go wrong with this one. It was very spicy and delicious. Good strong flavor. 4 Shells.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TAv-TXt93wI/AAAAAAAABRE/ScqkjXrWKmI/s1600/ElToro.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TAv-TXt93wI/AAAAAAAABRE/ScqkjXrWKmI/s320/ElToro.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479752980364123906" /></a><br />5 - Don Martin Street Cart - 1100 East 2100 South, Sugarhouse - Across the street from library<br />As previously mentioned, this cart has my vote for best taco stand found in the Taco Crawl of 2010. The lady that was running the cart was very friendly and happy to talk about the different types of meats and tacos that were available. The condiment bar was fantastic and held, probably the best pico de gallo that we found that day. It was very fresh, crisp, and besides the traditional tomatoes and onions, this one also had diced green peppers in it. Very good addition.<br />Zachary - Carnitas - This one had really good flavor, but was a bit dry. Still, I gave it 3 Shells.<br />Scott - Asada - This one also demonstrated good flavor but was a bit on the dry side. 4 Shells.<br />We both ordered the Al Pastor...and this is where the cart really separated itself from the crowds. This was one of the best Al Pastor tacos that I have ever had in my life. The flavor was amazing. It was quite spicy, without overwhelming the taste buds. The meat was moist and tender and just demonstrated what Al Pastor is supposed to taste like. This one easily earned 5 Shells. (Though I argued to extend our rankings to now include 6 Shells...Scott kept a level head and pointed out that we needed to have boundaries)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TAv-hIoNgVI/AAAAAAAABRM/UCngYT5j9WM/s1600/DonMartin.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TAv-hIoNgVI/AAAAAAAABRM/UCngYT5j9WM/s320/DonMartin.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479753216831619410" /></a><br />6 - Lone Star Taqueria - 2256 Ft. Union Blvd.<br />I hadn't been to this establishment in years...but always remembered it being very good. This was another "sit down" type restaurant, but as with the rest of the locations to follow, had the option available to order single tacos, and not just entire meals. I highly recommend sitting outside if the weather permits.<br />Both Scott and I ordered the Carne Adovada Tacos at $2.60 each. This was a larger taco that had a strong spicy flavor, with just the right amount of charcoal hinting to give it that grilled flare. It was a bit dry though, thus dropping it to a 3 Shell rank.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TAv-zZLe1iI/AAAAAAAABRU/TVKCLeLnFbE/s1600/Scott.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TAv-zZLe1iI/AAAAAAAABRU/TVKCLeLnFbE/s320/Scott.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479753530512168482" /></a><br />7 - El Taconazo - 7900 South State Street<br />When we sat down and the waitress came over with some chips and salsa, I think she was a bit disappointed when we only ordered a total of three tacos (Scott had 2 and I had 1). I wanted to explain to her that we had already been eating tacos for the last four hours, and that there really wasn't much room left in the ol' gullet. But I didn't...we just ordered. I do need to point out that the salsa that they brought to the table was one of the better salsas of the day. It was pretty spicy...but had a wonderfully strong flavor. Tacos were $1.50 each.<br />Zachary - Chorizo - This was a very good taco. The flavor was strong and the meat was pretty tender. However, after the initial bite...it seemed to lose steam in the flavor category and trended slightly downhill. 4 Shells.<br />Scott - Asada Bravado - This was described as tasting LIKE jerky...without being jerky. This also had a good flavor and warranted a 5 Shell ranking.<br /><br />8 - Tenochtitlan - 1825 West 3500 South - Way out past Redwood Road<br />I wish we had hit this place first. The taco I got here was probably one of the best tasting tacos of the day, however, by this point I was filling up fast. In fact, I was only able to finish half of my taco here, (though in my defense, these were some of the largest tacos we had received that day). But I loved this place because it was located in the back of a market store, which was completely inundated in the Mexican culture. It is a very friendly place with all sorts of wonderful foods to try. It does help if you speak Spanish going in. Fortunately, during my time in California, I picked up just enough of the language to order food and get myself in trouble. But not out of it. But I digress...tacos are in the back of the store and they are $1.75 each.<br />Both Scott and I ordered the Chicharon tacos, which is a type of fried pork. As you can imagine, it was very fatty, fried, and fantastic. The meat was exceptionally tender and had been marinated very well. The overall flavor was of course porky-goodness with an overtone of bacon. And since when has bacon been a bad thing? This really was a good taco, well deserving of a 5 Shell ranking.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TAv_aqp81pI/AAAAAAAABRc/XXA2SdnkxYA/s1600/ZachEating.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/TAv_aqp81pI/AAAAAAAABRc/XXA2SdnkxYA/s320/ZachEating.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5479754205218264722" /></a><br />So there you have it! Taco Crawl 2010. The final tally was Zachary - 10.5 tacos and Scott - 13 tacos. I know that I drank at least 4 sodas and several waters throughout the event, and I am sure Scott had at least that many, if not more.<br /><br />I highly recommend you get out and try new foods and new places. If you want someone to come with you...let me know! In the meantime, Scott and I have already begun plans for a Sushi Crawl and Taco Crawl 2.0 - the rest of the list.Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-34866315757319835412010-05-28T01:18:00.002-06:002010-05-28T01:34:17.957-06:00<center><h1>Full Moon Rising</center></h1><br />A few days ago, I walked down from the drill floor to our "Sky Box" shack which houses our computers and equipment. I paused on the walkway and looked east. Cracking through the night's storm clouds, the sun was chasing its way through the Caribbean dispersion. As its light paved its way across that deep, Ocean blue water, to the base of our rig, I questioned how it was that I am so blessed to witness some of the most beautiful sights possible.<br /><br />Last night I found myself standing over 200 feet above the water. A warm rain was crashing down around and over me. The night air was humid and hot. For the last hour, I had been outside against the elements, working feverishly to complete each task as its turn came up. Men all around were busy scattering themselves to and fro in order to bring any sense of semblance to the chaos that is oil drilling.<br /><br />As I stood there, sweat running down my face, muscles tired and body screaming for rest, a calm understanding settled over me as I realized that this moment...was what I got paid for.<br /><br />Tonight I found myself standing on that same spot. There was no rain. There were only a few clouds. There was the ocean. But most of all, unmistakable against everything surrounding it, there was the moon, at its fullest state.<br /><br />One bright orb against the pitch black night. Shadows of water and waves tickling the reflection from above. The moon demanded center stage this night...and it found it.<br /><br />This truly is a beautiful world that we have been given.<br /><br />A friend of mine, Ashli, has recently taken it upon herself to start blogging. I highly recommend that you check her blog out by <a href="http://thebreathbeforethephrase.blogspot.com/">clicking here.</a> Her excitement and passion for it has re-ignited my love for writing about my life. I don't know how many people read this anymore...but I hope to share with you more and more often.Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-77156968179840312772010-05-03T00:39:00.006-06:002010-05-03T00:49:15.691-06:00<center><h1>Before "Nott Block"</center></h1><br />Many of my voracious readers are already familiar with this link:<br /><br /><center><a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/NottBlock">Nott Block Videos</a></center><br /><br />That YouTube channel is a direct line to Funniness. My genius cousins put together these short videos that are hilarious. I might recommend this one to start with:<br /><object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/z-UN0r7w7rU&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/z-UN0r7w7rU&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />(Did you see me? Did you see me?)<br /><br />Anyway, thanks to my youngest brother, I found out that entertaining videos in our family date back even further.<br /><br />Before Nott Block, there was Gabe & Elliot:<br /><br /><object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/fo4Cv3XLJBs&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/fo4Cv3XLJBs&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br /><center>and</center><br /><br /><object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/hNmymZwhqX8&hl=en_US&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/hNmymZwhqX8&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object><br /><br />You say "Tornado", I say, "Tornato".Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36513599.post-41535565139102252502010-04-26T20:46:00.004-06:002010-04-26T20:56:47.883-06:00<center><h1>Interruptions</h1></center><br />Last Friday I found myself sitting at the office gaining valuable insight into the intricacies of software certifications and trainings, when I received a text message from my buddy Jon.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/S9ZSPlNsYOI/AAAAAAAABQc/KJUoFL2QBK0/s1600/14640_101434966547136_100000419008119_41235_5614810_n.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 213px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/S9ZSPlNsYOI/AAAAAAAABQc/KJUoFL2QBK0/s320/14640_101434966547136_100000419008119_41235_5614810_n.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464645625501737186" /></a><br />Jon had recently (as in 12 hours earlier) purchased a season golf pass at the same course that I have one. <br /><br />In his text message, he stated, "This golf pass is going to interrupt my productivity"<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/S9ZRYwzov5I/AAAAAAAABQM/DHsSlv8TFEM/s1600/Golf-Course-Redmond-OR.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 242px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/S9ZRYwzov5I/AAAAAAAABQM/DHsSlv8TFEM/s320/Golf-Course-Redmond-OR.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464644683720867730" /></a><br />I responded, in regards to my own situation<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/S9ZRkHIDw1I/AAAAAAAABQU/gG1KaUj7-8Q/s1600/the-golf-swing.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_LcmAt-joU-U/S9ZRkHIDw1I/AAAAAAAABQU/gG1KaUj7-8Q/s320/the-golf-swing.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464644878690665298" /></a><br /><center>"All this productivity is interrupting my golf pass."</center>Zacharyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15923109320977030154noreply@blogger.com1