Utah State Fair 2008

I entered two items into the State Fair this year and was awarded two ribbons! This is the first time I have ever received a "prize" for any of my baked goods, and I'm pretty excited about the $3 I won. Although I didn't bring home the blue ribbon, this gives me room to grow and encouragement for next year's entries. Any suggestions?

Does it get any more home-town, American, and fair-like than this? A good, old-fashioned square dancing competition. Add this to your list of reasons to make the fair a must-see yearly event.

While the goat was taking a strong liking to Dave, I was becoming infatuated with the tiny piglets. They reminded me of Wilbur and Babe, two of my favorite pigs. I just like to think they'll be rewarded for their debut at the fair with something besides a slaughter house, even if it's just a "that'll do, pig."

LOgan TO JAckson

Last week Dave and his dad rode over 200 miles on their bikes from Logan, Utah to Jackson, Wyoming- quite the feat! Peg and I acted as the "support team" supplying peanut butter sandwiches, gatorade, Snickers bars, and a whole lot of moral support. Despite a few falls, emergency bathroom breaks, and unplanned detours off the beaten path (and that's not just the racers!), everyone safely finished the race with loads of daylight to spare.

After over 13 hours on a bicycle, Dave and Bob were eager to rest. But the next morning, us girls had plans of our own, with lots of sightseeing and shopping to accomplish in a short amount of time. Since this was my first time to Jackson, I wanted to take it all in. But one of my favorite sights of all was seeing Dave and Bob cross the finish line in Teton Village. A big CONGRATS goes out to them both- I'm so proud of you!

The Best 2 Years

True, I've never been on a mission, but I can't imagine any two years being better than the last two for Dave and I. We recently celebrated our 2 year anniversary by going up to Snowbird and enjoying the beautiful view, clean air, and various activities (thanks Sloane!). Our favorites were the zip-line, rock climbing wall, and tram ride, but the delicious dinner at Cucina Toscana topped the list. I feel very blessed to be married to Dave, who is so loving, thoughtful, sensitive, caring, funny, unselfish, and talented. He brings me joy every day and always brings optimism and laughter to our lives. There is nothing that brings me more happiness than being his wife. I love you Dave!

Another addition to the tool belt

I recently got the chance to use my new offset spatula for the first time, and I couldn't help but smile as I did so. If you like to frost anything, this is the tool for you! My chocolate zucchini cake turned into a deep brown ice rink as my spatula evened out any ridges or bumps and let the true essence of the buttercream shine through. A big Thank You goes out to the girl who knows me best and would understand just how much joy this tool continues to bring me. Next on the list? A rotating cake stand; every layer cake I make begs for one.