ThisSideoftheStory

SNOW DAY!!

2009-03-26T14:19:00.000-07:00

Today it snowed like crazy! So much that most of the State shut down for the day . . . gotta love those snow days! So when I was home just waiting the storm to pass I took Tobi out for some fun! He loves the snow but had a little trouble getting around! What can I say I think he's adorable!

I submitted this picture to 9 News ... we'll see if Tobi gets famous!

Good Times with Family & Friends

2009-03-24T20:44:00.000-07:00

Life seems to be moving quite quickly these days! I guess that is to be expected when one is trying to plan a wedding and buying a new home at the same time . . . all the while trying to soak up and enjoy every moment life has to offer. I have to admit that I've done my fair share of 'soaking' and 'enjoying' lately. Dan and I were fortunate to sneak away with friends up to Breckenridge for a ski weekend and my goodness we had a blast! A few weekends ago we were able to partake in a little St. Patty's celebration with pretty much the entire city of Denver! Let's just say I can't hold my own like I used to in college . . . needless to say fun was had by all! And of course I cherish the weekends I'm up North and get to spend time with my dear family. We had a fabulous weekend last weekend enjoying the sunshine and kicking Spring off on the right foot! It is hard to believe that Spring is already here and the wedding is officially under the 6 month mark. I am happy to report the plans are coming together beautifully and I'm very excited to see the day coming to life! I can't wait to share the day with those who mean so much . . . what a party it is going to be! And speaking of parties Brooke is getting very close to her graduation! I'm so proud of her and her accomplishment . . . We truly will celebrate in style in May! Okay so here's some fun pictures over the past month or so!

Brooke working on homework and wine!!

They guys had a 30 minute fishing contest, unfortunately no one caught anything but the money still remains in the pot. Possibly next time!?!

Tobi and his Uncle Chubby soaking up some rays! Such handsome boys!

Dan trying his hand at Dad's bb-gun . . . Let's not forget to mention who hit the sign on their first shot! Oh wait it was ME!

Watching the St. Patty's Parade . . . so much fun!

Enjoying some green beer!

This is one of my all time favorite pictures! Dan and I stopping for a picture on the slopes of Copper Mtn

We had such glorious weather that day, so much that Dan and I parked it at the T-Rex grill for an hour or two just relaxing and being thankful to be right here in this moment (the beer helped too)!

5213 Cherrywood Lane!

2009-03-11T17:31:00.001-07:00

Dan and I bought a HOME!! It is a pretty amazing feeling to look at this house and realize that this is where Dan and I will make our first home! We feel incredibly blessed. I can't wait to show everyone our new home and thank you to those who mean so much who have already shared in our joy!

Dan and I in front of our 'SOLD' sign, pretty amazing feeling!

Here is the front. I love it ... I can't wait to get a table and chairs so we can spend evenings in the summer here!

Our entry ... Come on in friends!

And my favorite, the Kitchen! I'm really going to make Noni proud and use this kitchen right!

Our living room with the fire place!

And the back . . . we will have landscaping and a patio put in before we move in!

What can I say I'm a very blessed girl!

A Wedding Update

2009-02-25T18:49:00.000-08:00

So I thought that I should probably give everyone an update to our ever developing wedding plans. We have picked a date which is September 12, 2009!! Wow! That day is going to be here before we know it . . . so make sure everyone clears their calendars. For you out of town folks watch your mailboxes you'll be getting Dan and I's save the date soon. They are super cute and fun!

We did decide on the Hilton in downtown Fort Collins for our reception. When we walked in everything just seemed to fit and fall into place . . . they had 20 million in recent renovations and the hotel is stunning. It will be wonderful for a party (oh and we already asked if they will keep the bar open for us after hours)! :)

I did find my dress, although I can't give many details in the blog as a certain someone (Dan!) is a regular reader. But needless to say it was the 3rd dress I tried on and just knew it was 'the one!' It is absolutely lovely and coming all the way from Barcelona! I couldn't be happier!

Many many more details to come! So stay tuned folks!

ENGAGED!!

2009-01-18T18:35:00.000-08:00

So today was a pretty amazing day! We went to Copper Mountain today for what I thought was just going be a wonderful day of skiing with some of my most favorite people. But my goodness I was surprised . . . it was an absolutely gorgeous day, the snow was fantastic and to my absolute surprise Dan got down on one knee and proposed! It was such an amazing moment, one I will cherish for so many years. The ring is so stunning, I am one blessed girl!

Brooke and I stopping to take advantage of a beautiful photo opportunity!

The Hopkins hitting the slopes!

Yet another great photo . . . definitely frameable!

Colorado is such a wonderful place to live!!

Riding up the lift for the first time . . . it was great we were almost first chair. It's amazing to be up in the high country early in the morning, a little slice of heaven.

We stopped for what I thought was just another picture little did I know Dan was just about to pop the question!

Dan down on one knee . . . so sweet!!

After saying YES, some tears we took the final picture of the day!

More details to come . . . :O)

Starting to look a lot like Christmas . . .

2008-12-08T17:36:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe that Christmas is ever so nearing and the snow falling outside this evening truly helps get weary souls in the christmas spirit. I have to say that this time of year is my absolute favorite. I've decorated our little apartment with all the trimmings and put up our little charlie brown christmas tree. It helps to make family feel not so far away. If I had one prayer this holiday season it would be that time itself would slow and that the moments spent with family and friends would last for much longer than time would allow. For Thanksgiving this year I was able to enjoy a long wonderful in Northern Colorado it was so nice to get out of the city. Thankfully this year Brooke and Brian will be home for Christmas! It was a great weekend filled with lots of love, laughter, food, fun and of course what's a Jonckowski holiday without great wine! I am so blessed and look forward to the upcoming holiday season. Tis' the season!

Tobias and Kingstin pooped out from the Holiday festivities

What can I say just another classic Jonckowski family photo!

Playing around with the night scene feature on my camera . . . a little creepy!

A beautiful table . . .

Mom and Dad getting ready for the fabulous meal . . . Mmmmm!

This past Saturday was Flood and Peterson's annual Christmas Party. It was a wonderful party at the Grand Hyatt in downtown Denver. Not only was the hotel simply beautiful but the ballroom was on the 37th floor and over looked the city skyline. The view was stunning and simply perfect for the formal holiday party. Dan and I had so much fun and can't wait for next year!

After the party was over a group of us made our way to the lobby bar to continue the party. Dan loosening his tie and kick'in back.

Dan and I at the party!

Friday Night we kicked off the holiday season with the Parade of Lights in downtown Denver. It was a great night to get out and spend time with friends.

It did get a bit chilly but our hot toddy's kept us nice and warm! Jana, Miranda, Aliecia, Jen and me waiting for the parade to start!

Me posing as the Faith Bible Chapel float passed us by!

Waiting for Santa!

One of the prettiest buildings in Downtown!

With Love from Chicago!

2008-10-28T18:58:00.000-07:00

Last week I embarked on my first business trip with Flood & Peterson to none other than Chicago! It was an absolutely wonderful experience, I was able to get to know some of my colleagues and I began the transition away from the 'new girl.' Needless to say we dined like royalty the entire trip and drank the finest wine! We went to Harry Carey's which was very fun and an experience all together! My favorite was a lovely family Italian restaurant called Ballo, it was great to sit and enjoy fine dining with new friends. Oh and yes the seminar was very informational and I learned quite a bit. Here's a few pictures from the trip. Enjoy!

Tobias enjoying some pre-Halloween festivities (he unfortunately didn't get to go to Chicago with me)!

I took this picture in my hotel room just as I looked out the windows for the first time . . . I have to admit the city took my breath away.

This was my favorite part of my hotel room!

The view from Sear's Tower!! Such an amazing sight . . . what a wonderful city!

Some of the F&P crew enjoying the House of Blues!

Thursday night we went to this wonderful Italian restaurant called Ballo. It was an absolutely amazing experience! If you're ever in Chicago you must go this family owned restaurant.

Our feast at Ballo! Truly some of the best Italian I've had since Noni's cooking . . .

This picture is taken from my room . . . I sat on the couch for over an hour sipping on a glass of white wine watching the big city bustle about even through the rain.

Ahhh the view from the plane . . . on the way home. When you rise above the clouds it seems as if you could reach out and touch the very face of Heaven.

A little bit of Life

2008-10-13T20:21:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that I feel like I have finally started to see the light at the end of the tunnel. My last job I realize now how much it was actually chipping away little pieces of my heart. I was miserable and it followed me in every aspect of my life. Unexpectedly a new job fell into my lap and as sad as this sounds I was a bit hesitant to start all over again. However I took a leap of faith and jumped in with both feet . . . and my goodness I am so blessed. This new job is a breath of fresh air and I'm starting to feel like myself again. This new job is incredible and I couldn't imagine going back to banking! I'm so grateful to those (mainly Brooke and Dan) who have put up with me over the past year . . . I know I wasn't always easy to handle and I'm sure glad you didn't judge me for it. I'm heading off on my first business trip next week to Chicago! I'm very excited as I've never been there and of course the new company does everything in style!!

There have definitely been some fun memories over the past month: Dan's birthday, Breckenridge, Counting Crows concert and the Broncos game. Here are some fun pictures hightlighting the events!

Part of the crew Dan, Brooke and Brian getting ready for the game! It was a bit chilly but what football isn't fun without cold weather and a beer?!?!

Miranda, Jana, me and Dan getting ready to go in . . . yes that is schnapps in Dan's hand. We brought it in and it mixed perfect with hot cocoa. Gotta warm the soul some how!

The view from our seats! Yes they were a little high up but I think this is where the 'real' fans sit! We had so much fun and really it isn't as far as it looks.

Dan and I taking up a great picture opportunity atop Hoosier Pass during our weekend up in Breckenridge. It was so fabulous to sneak away for the weekend with the people I love most Tobias and Kingstin! Er um just kidding!! Me, Brooke, Dan and Brian and yes the pups got to tag along with us.

Vail Mountian and all her glory!! I can't wait for snow . . . I just bought new skis so I can't wait to try them out.

Jonckowski/Hopkins' don't mess around when it comes to video games!! Me and Brooke having fun in Breckenridge.

For Dan's birthday I took him to the Capital Grille for dinner in Downtown Denver. We had such a wonderful time . . . the food was phenomenal, the wine out of this world (so great we ordered two bottles), the service outstanding and my company priceless!

Dan and I at the Capital Grille . . . Yum!

Mary and I . . . we ended up meeting up with a couple of friends after dinner. Perfect way to close the evening.

Brooke and I enjoying a beer at Lucky Joes . . . oh we were still so tan. Sigh Mexico!

Just another day in Paradise!

2008-09-07T20:50:00.000-07:00

Ah Mexico what a glorious trip we had . . . it's hard to believe that tomorrow we'll already been home for a week. Very sad to be home and back in the 'real' world. But needless to say the trip was absolutely fantastic, it was just what the doctor ordered! So much fun was had by Me, Brooke, Dan and Brian . . . SO many wonderful memories! I think we've decided that this is going to have to be an annual thing but instead of 8 days on the beach we decided 10 would be much better! We had wonderful weather, thankfully hurricane Gustav missed us although the tide was really high and rough towards the end of the trip. The boys didn't complain one second as it allowed them to act like little boys and body surf quite a bit! They guys did go deep sea fishing and both Dan and Brian were able to catch some pretty impressive fish. As for me and Brooke we pretty much laid on the beach all week, did a lot of reading, relaxing and soaking up all of God's beautiful country down there. Honestly I couldn't have asked for a better trip the hotel was stunning, the staff was very kind, the beach was beautiful, the food was delicious, the cocktails just how we like them and I was with my 3 most favorite people in the world! A girl couldn't ask for anything more! What can I say I'm blessed!

Along with the wonderful trip came another blessing . . . unexpectedly I interviewed for a job as a Business Development Coordinator for Flood and Peterson Insurance Co and I GOT the job!! This is a huge blessing for me and I can't wait to see where this position takes me! I put my two weeks in tomorrow . . . wish me luck!

Okay enough about that . . . Here's the some pictures from the trip!

Brooke and I taking advantage of a great photo opportunity on the beach!

Funny who knew!?!?!?! We went into Playa del Carmen for shopping and had to stop at Senor Frogs a few cocktails . . . needless to say we had a lot of fun!!

More fun at Senor Frogs!

Sigh this was our last night . . . we went to dinner at the Japanese restaurant which was delicious! And I have to say we were all looking very gorgeous that night (especially the guys in their white linen pants very Don Johnson-ish).

Gotta have a traditional 'Jonckowski' sand, sun, toes and ocean picture! Ah paradise . . .

Have another beer in Mexico!! We had just arrived in Cancun and the beautiful thing about this airport is there is a bar right as you walk out . . . can't really ask for anything more! And don't you love my dress?!?!? I sure did it was the perfect 'airplane dress!'

Dan and I on our first night in Mexico . . . we were so excited that we just stayed up late listening to the live music and sipping on cocktails.

Now tell me how looking at this could ever get old?? Pretty sure I'd be okay if I had to look at the ocean every day! The water down there is simply breath taking life is just a little bit sweeter down there!!

Every night there was live music in the hotel courtyard . . . we always had a cocktail and listened to the band. Dan and I dancing . . . Mexico is very romantic!

Me and Brooke before dinner at La Bodega . . . so much fun!

Lake Tahoe!

2008-07-28T15:40:00.000-07:00

This past weekend The Campbell Family (my mom's side) had a family reunion in Lake Tahoe and my goodness it was pretty much a slice of Heaven! So much fun was had, lots of good food, wonderful company, lots and lots of cocktails and no to mention the scenery was spectacular! Here's some of my favorite photos from the trip. This trip was so therapeutic for me . . . I truly needed to get away from Colorado. Sadly my job has taken it's toll on my spirit and I have finally decided that it just isn't worth it so stayed tuned I believe the times are going to be changing!

This is Brooke and I at our first pull-off on our way into Tahoe . . . simply a stunning view!

Yet another fabulous view of Lake Tahoe!

On Friday Mom, Dad, Brooke and I drove around the entire lake stopping at tourist spots for pictures and the little towns around the lake were awesome. We did stop at a wonderful place for lunch called Gar Wood's and oh my goodness it was delicious not to mention it had a great view! Brooke and I enjoying lunch and a beer!

This boat was out front of Gar Wood's . . . I think it might have been the owner's because the value is around $100K!

Ah yes another fantastic view of Lake Tahoe . . . notice the 'little' house down below!

Mom and I trying our luck at the Casino . . . I was the big winner for the evening drum roll please I won $4!!

We took a dinner cruise around the lake on Friday night . . . so much fun and great views! This is Brooke and I as we pulled out of the dock.

This is me and my cousin Mike singing or rather attempting to sing Jimmy Buffet!

A few of the Campbell ladies!!

On the dinner cruise . . . My Aunt Maureen, Me and Brooke!

My goodness you just couldn't get enough of the beautiful lake . . . this picture was taken on the dinner cruise.

Father's Day Weekend

2008-06-18T07:09:00.000-07:00

So this picture was in fact not Father's Day weekend but I really like this picture of Dan and I! This picture was taken a few weekends ago on the roof top patio of one of our favorite bars, LoDo's. We got a great table, had some cocktails and watched the sunset over the Rockies. Could summer be any better in Colorado??

Another 'not' Father's Day weekend picture however we were lucky to catch a Rockies game and they actually won! World Series here we come!! Maybe not???

Okay now it's Father's Day Weekend and the Taste of Fort Collins was in town this weekend so we all went to Downtown Fort Collins and enjoyed the festivities. This is Nick and Brady enjoying the sights!

Again what's better than a cold beer, the summer sun and listening to a concert?!?!

Lifehouse came and played at the Taste of Fort Collins, good show for what we saw of it!

On Father's Day Tobias and I got to go sailing with Dad on their lake. Tobi loves the boat so we just kicked our feet back and enjoyed the ride!

It was a beautiful day, we were able to sit out on Mom and Dad's patio all day long. Some of my most favorite memories are spent on their patio, lots of good company, great food, tasty drinks and lots of laughter! We all had a great weekend!

GoodGuys Car Show May 30th

2008-06-03T20:39:00.000-07:00

This past weekend the GoodGuys Car Show was up in Loveland and Me, Dan, Brooke, Brian, Mom and Dad decided it was a perfect way to spend a warm Saturday afternoon.

Just one of the thousands of wonderful cars at the show! Honestly some of a coolest looking cars I have ever seen. People watching was just about as interesting too!

So much fun! Me, Brooke and Mom standing infront of one of the many gems at the show. I believe this one was a Corvette.

Ah Dan's ultimate dream car . . . can't remember the year but the horse emblem gives it way! Remember Dan if you want this car, I get shoes!! :o)

Oh man can you believe this beauty?!?!? Yep believe it or not we found this one in the parking lot at the Car Show . . . Brooke and I couldn't resist! (Hint hint this is Brooke and Brian's Jeep)

I love this photo!! Tobi snuggled up on Dan's lap first, then Guinness curled up next and well I guess Kingstin felt a little left out and needed some lov'in!

An Update

2008-06-03T19:12:00.000-07:00

So I find that it has been quite sometime since I have added to my blog and so as I looked through my camera tonight I find that I have quite a few good photos to share. My life in South Denver has been getting progressively better. I have to admit that when I moved down here in late January I wasn't very sure about the decision but over the months things are starting to feel a little more like home. I'm not sure if it's actually 'my life' or the changing into summer; the warmer weather does seem to comfort this somewhat weary soul. Of course my weekends are spent poolside with a cocktail in hand at my apartments very nice pool. Truly I really can't complain!! My job has gotten better as well . . . minus a few 'staffing' issues I'm feeling like I'm finally getting the bank under control and moving in a positive direction. So enough about that here's some fun photos from Memorial Day Weekend 2008!

Nothing better than spending an afternoon on Lucky Joe's patio in Fort Collins with a cocktail! Me, Dan, James and BJ kicking off Memorial Day weekend.

Brooke and I taking up a good photo opportunity after dinner at our favorite place, Bentfork. So delicious!!

Dan and I after Bentfork. And yes for those of you who check out Brooke's Blog . . . there is a good possibility that there are wedding bells in the future. Stay tuned! :O)

We had a fantastic BBQ over at Mom and Dad's house lots of good food, good cocktails and great company. All of the boys got to go swimming in their lake and I have to admit I think the lake is a little bit of 'doggy heaven.' This is a great picture of Tobias and Guinness fighting over a stick . . . even though Guinness is 3x Tobi's size he put up quite a fight!

Mom and Dad enjoying food and fun!!

Hmmm funny thing RC airplanes don't really fair well when flown into a roof (Who Knew?). Dan going after his crashed plane!!

Ah Tobias!

2008-04-27T20:05:00.001-07:00

So I'm officially fired for posting pictures of my dog on my blog but I've taken some really cute pictures of Tobias this weekend so I thought I would add them. Plus he's pretty dang cute that I couldn't resist!

Just kick'in it back watching a movie with Me and Miranda perfect thing to do on a Sunday afternoon.

Yep life is pretty damn rough! I mean the dog was named after my favorite town on the island of St. Croix so his life is pretty fitting . . . for those who don't know it's Tobias Christiansted Jonckowski

Oh so cute! (See how could I resist!?!)

sometimes.

2008-04-24T20:11:00.000-07:00

sometimes i think you need to have a bad week. we always expect bad weeks to happen no matter how much we dread them. when they do arrive it is almost calming because we know this too shall pass, the clouds will part and life as we know it will continue as usual.

so as i look at my half empty glass of white wine i realize that this week has been just that . . . a bad week, a week that feels like i could almost be broken, a week that makes me want to crawl back into bed the moment i wake up. for what reason i'm not really sure. maybe it's my job finally taking its toll on my spirit self, maybe its the 8 1/2 hour meeting i had to endure today, maybe its missing my family and those who mean so much or maybe its just simply a shitty week.

for what ever reason it may be i'm paying my dues, laying my head down and praying that tomorrow is a better day.

Thought I might add some new photos

2008-04-09T19:38:00.000-07:00

I thought I would add a few fun pictures from the past couple of weeks. I have been fortunate to have done some really fun things as of lately so let's see . . . ah yes Dan and I went to the Denver Car show which was a lot of fun and we definitely found a few cars that we could take home!

Pretty nice huh? Good way to spend $100,000! I believe this one is an Aston Martin, unfortunately we couldn't get too close. But my goodness this car was pretty!

Dan was able to get some cheap tickets to the Nuggets game last weekend - so Brooke, Brian, Dan and I went and as always had a fabulous time! I believe this shot was taken at half time they did a really neat military theme.

Here's the guys looking tough (well Brian is anyways) at Brooklyn's!

Dan and I waiting for the game to start. Did anyone notice I chopped my hair? Yep another phase in my many hair stages!

So I call this photo 'what happens when you leave your camera behind with the Hopkins while getting a drink!' So funny Brooke I'm dying laughing!!! ;o)

Uh huh real nice! Another Hopkins classic!

After dinner and drinks at Brooklyn's, the Nuggets game, the light rail home and a quite few cocktails Dan and I got comfortable played some cards, enjoyed a few more drinks and then called it a nite.

A good cup of coffee

2008-04-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

I think a lot can be said about a good cup of coffee, comfy clothes, Tobias snuggled closely to my feet and watching the snow fall outside. It is moments like this that I cherish and wish I could hold onto for much longer than time allows. It does allow me a moment to stop and soak a little bit of life in which I have to admit has been a challenge. I knew moving down here this new job would take adjustments yet I didn't quite realize how hard it would be on my spirit. However moments like this whisper that 'everything is going to be okay' and I can pick up my weary soul smile and know that today is going to be a good day.

So here's to the ebb and flow of life and making everyday a good day no matter how much you want to run and hide.

A little bit of sushi fun!

2008-03-25T18:12:00.000-07:00

Brooke, Brian, Dan and I went out last Friday for sushi in downtown Fort Collins and you can tell by the pictures we had a pretty damn good time! Fantastic way to close the week. Cheers to good friends, good company, great sushi and tasty drinks!

Hmmm maybe this could be the cocktails talking???

Definitely the wine talking!! ;O)

Dan and I enjoying pre-drinks at Elliot's martini bar. . . probably the best way to start the evening. Nothing like good bourbon to warm the soul. Cheers!

The Hopkins' . . . Two of my most favorite people!

O' to the Irish

2008-03-17T20:01:00.000-07:00

After a long week of being really sick I needed some time to relax and enjoy good times with family and friends so I headed to Northern Colorado. My job has been super stressful and I finally think my body had had enough and I got really really sick last week. :o( It was awful but after a nice weekend I'm starting to feel like a normal human being. I spent the weekend with Mom and Dad and it was just what the doctor ordered (oh and enjoying a few beers at Old Chicago too)!

I guess the Doctor also called for Guiness beer and Dan . . . due to being sick I had no taste buds so I could actually drink the Guiness and a shot of Jameson Irish Whiskey. Cheers to Ireland!

Nick and his lovely Leanna . . . good times with the cute couple!

Dan having fun!

Girl's Nite Out!

2008-03-05T14:56:00.000-08:00

The beautiful lights of Larimer Square downtown Denver, such a pretty sight!! A small group of us girls went out on the town for a good girls night!

Pretending Miranda is our Pedi-taxi . . . not sure why I have such a big smile?? I guess I must have been having a really good time!

Me, Miranda, Jen and Alicia getting a cocktail at one of the many clubs we sampled that night . . . I believe this one was called Le Rouge ??

Me and Jen waiting for the other girls to catch up

Another Pedi-taxi picture!

Riding the lightrail home . . . such a good way to close a fun evening! Good times, thanks girls!

Some Crazy Jonckowski's/Hopkins'

2008-02-29T19:40:00.001-08:00

Brian . . . I have to admit he started this!

Not sure if Mom intentionally took this upside down . . . ??

Oh Dad . . . !

Hmmmmm maybe Brooke was thinking of kissing Brian ? ? ?

So Sunday Evening Dinner at the Jonckowski house can get pretty fun and entertaining . . . what else can I say? I love this family!!!

2008-02-22T18:41:00.000-08:00

The Hopkins family + Tobi!! This was taken over President's Day weekend . . . I have to admit it was definitely a full house with all of the boys! Lots of fun up in Johnstown! ;o)

Just Liv'in. . .

2008-02-21T18:41:00.000-08:00

me and Miranda on our light rail adventure!

So I've made the move and been living in Denver for over a month now and things are going pretty smooth. I think we've all settled in pretty well and getting used to the 'big city' living. Miranda and I have this great little apartment in a fabulous part of town and the apartment is starting to feel like home. Tobi is liking all of the new places to walk . . . in fact we walk to Coors Amphitheater (awesome outdoor venue for concerts) pretty regularly. I'm getting used to the new job and feeling more apart of the branch. My job is definitely a challenge but I think once I get over the learning curve I won't require so much wine at night! ;o)

We did test out the light rail and went to downtown Denver which was pretty eventful. On our way home we missed our train . . . sadly we just stood there and starred at it leave not knowing that was our train. The good news is if you come to visit and we take the light rail that mistake won't be made twice!!

It's all offical now!

2008-01-27T15:48:00.000-08:00

I thought I would give a quick update to the things that have been going on in my life. I have offically made the move to Denver and so far things are going fairly well. The community I live in is really cool lots of great ammenities and close to lots of cool stuff. Already started going to some of the good resturants. My job is going very well I have quite a bit to learn and my staff (still really strange to think I'm the manager :) is really great and I think I have a good team. I did have the pleasure of living like college student for most of last week as my new furniture couldn't be delievered until late in the week so I sat on the floor on my make shift pillow couch. I don't think Tobi minded having me so close to floor. Tobi is adjusting well . . . still haven't found a dog park yet. I will be glad when Miranda moves down next weekend and I will have someone to talk to . . . Tobi just doesn't carry a very good conversation. :)

Well that's about it for now . . . hope all is well in everyone's neck of the woods!!

Can feel the Change a com'in

2008-01-07T08:49:00.000-08:00

I thought I would give an update to the things changing in my life . . . on Saturday I was able to find a place to live in Denver. It's a gorgeous community, brand new and in a very swanky part of town. If all goes well I will be moving down this weekend. Once I get my new contact info I will get that to everyone.

I have to admit that it is getting a little hard to think I'm leaving Fort Collins so many good memories here. Much more to report I'm sure. Happy Monday Everyone!

2008 Already a Big Year . . .

2007-12-31T07:44:00.000-08:00

. . . and it hasn't even started yet! Well I continued to make 2008 a bang up year; on saturday I bought a new car! And I absolutely LOVE it!! It was such a relief to get rid of the VW and get into something reliable. My first brand new I mean 2008 brand new car!! :O)

Cheers to a Happy New Year to everyone!! Hope 2008 is a wonderful year for you and your loved ones!

One flat tire, one flat spare and a whole lot of laughs

2007-12-24T07:35:00.000-08:00

So on Saturday I learned the value of a good car insurance policy. Nick and I headed down to Denver in hopes of finding a place to live (which we did find some really fabulous places) and so after our search we began our journey back up to Fort Collins.

Still in Denver on i-25 we heard a loud "POP" and couldn't figure out where the noise was coming from. "Is it your car Jai?" Nick asked. "No way. I don't think so." I replied looking in my driver's side mirror to see smoke coming from the back of my car. We pulled off on to the shoulder of the major highway only to find my back tire to be completely shredded. As we started to get ready to change the tire we learned that VW equips their cars with ridiculous jacks and of course I had no tools to get the wheel off.

Thankfully through my insurance I have covered roadside assistance. So there we sat on the side of the highway just waiting as hundreds of cars sped past us. The tire guy did finally come after 3 sets of bad directions from the insurance company and we were back on our way. Nick thought the spare seemed a little flat so we found a near by gas station for air. As Nick started to fill the tire he looked at me and said with a frown "There's more air leaking out than there is going in." There we stood unbelievably frustrated, tired and starving not knowing what to do next. We were able to find some 'fix a flat' stuff which did finally get us safely back to Fort Collins.

I guess the morale of this story as my girlfriend Miranda put it "I guess I'm just meant to be in Denver!"

Stepping Forward

2007-12-18T15:08:00.000-08:00

So today makes it official . . . I have accepted a position in South Denver and will be moving in the next couple of weeks. I am incredibly excited and can't wait for this new chapter in my life to begin. Fort Collins has been very good to me but it is definitely time to move on. It's like Dad has said "Go big or Go home!" So going big is what I intend to do!

I'm sure there will be much to talk about over the next couple of weeks. Let's hope I find a place to live!

quiet moments.

2007-11-28T15:22:00.000-08:00

The sun has already set, only a few people are still in the bank and Randy is playing Christmas music on his violin. It is quiet and still. And after a rather rough day I feel at peace, a moment to take a deep breath and think . . .

I've learned that life is beautiful even through the heartache and the trials. It is at the end of the day when life can whisper your name and asks you to come and sit beside her, to enjoy her. To soak her in, to be quiet, to remember and reflect on those tender moments that mean so much.

My mistakes I've made them and yet I know I would choose them again. My regrets are few and my heartache I have left but not forgotten. My hardships I would not trade them. And my scars I wear them without shame. I would not ask God to do any different and I am grateful for each moment He so graciously gives.

8 things . . .

2007-11-24T11:22:00.000-08:00

Brooke asked me to continue the "8 things you may not know about me" so here they are: (and if you do know this about just pretend you didn't!) ;o)

1.) My favorite place I've lived was in a little tin-roof hut on the island of St. Croix, USVI.

2.) I'm deathly afraid of snakes, I can barely stand to see them even on TV!

3.) I wish that I could be a traveling journalist for National Geographic.

4.) Even though I have quite a few scars I wear them with pride . . . after all they tell the stories of my life.

5.) Riding up the first ski lift for the day is among my favorite moments in life.

6.) I let Tobias sleep under my covers with me (I know but he's so dang cute and a great snuggler!).

7.) Feeling the sand between my toes, letting the sun kiss my cheeks and listening to the waves roll up the shore is my idea of the perfect day.

8.) I love a good glass of wine but only buy the bottles that are pretty.

Home . . .

2007-11-22T07:57:00.001-08:00

It was one of those evenings that feels just right . . . with a glass of wine in hand, Christmas music softly playing in the background and my most favorite people, Brooke and my mom, sitting near. Everything felt just right, everything was just as it was supposed to be the night before Thanksgiving. Dad and Brian were outside in the cold bbq-ing when we realized that Tobias and Kingstin were no longer with them. In a panic, we all ran in different directions yelling their names and praying under our breathes that they would come home. As my search continued I realized they were not coming to my calls. I stopped, feeling my heart racing, my voice was quivering and the cold was stinging my lungs. Sadly I could still hear my families call. I knew there was one place I needed to look next . . . the highway. I knew I could not bare the sight alone so I turned to go back for my dad's company . . . as I approached their house I saw my dad I whispered through my tears "Nothing, I can't find them." He smiled "I did." They were safe and at home.

So as we sat in the living room all of us home, the Christmas music still playing I looked across the room . . . stopping to look at my family. Tears began to well and all I could think was how grateful I am for them. This evening I was grateful for the safe return of my dear puppy but even more it made me reflect on what truly is important this holiday season: my family.

I am so blessed.

2007-11-01T15:24:00.000-07:00

I've decided that I would try something new. So I decided I would start a blog so 'welcome to this side of the story!'