Thawing Out

The sun came out today and melted more than half of the snow away.  I was really hoping it would stick around until Sean comes home from Arizona tomorrow, so we could build a snowman. The kids in our neighborhood were having the time of their lives as they did not have to go to school for the third snow day in a row.  I tried hard to get back into the groove of housecleaning and laundry after spending two days distracted and entertained by the weather.  Today was the first time since moving to Colorado I took our walk after a snowy day for various reasons.  The first winter I was too busy with my job to do anything but work.  Last winter I was just starting to get out, the winter was pretty warm and hardly snowed, and I was a too "wimpy" on the cold days to walk.    I really hope when I start working again I can continue to enjoy the little things. 

Snow Day Activities

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We finally made our way out of the neighborhood and went to Starbucks. 

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When we returned the dogs were begging to go for a walk and we granted their wish. 

We came home from the walk at 3 pm and took another snow total measurement.

24 inches and it is still falling!

Digging Out

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Scott was out front trying to clean off all of our sidewalks, driveway and helping our neighbor while the dogs and I were playing in the backyard this morning.  I slipped down the steps in the back and luckily the snow was so deep I did not get hurt.  I told one of my neighbors Scott wants to go get a coffee and she said please get me one if you get out of here.

At noon the snow was past my knees (I'm 5'8"), we tried to measure, probably about 22-24 inches!

Snow Day Two!

Scott and I woke up early this morning and measured over 20 inches of snow.  Millie tried to go outside but disappeared into the snow and turned around instantly.  Sparky trenched through the snow and Millie followed her out.  We tried for over half an hour to dig Scott's car out of the driveway however once it was out of the driveway it was stuck in the street.  We were not about to shovel the street, so for now he is home.  The snow continues to fall and I wish we had sleds or snow shoes.

 

Getting Deep

This has been such a fun day!  I have been waiting since we moved to Colorado for a really good snow and I think this one may be it.  If I had to guess 1-2 inches are falling per hour right now and we must have about 14 inches already.  I took these pictures at 4pm.  The news says 18 more hours of snow to come.

Having Fun in the Snow !

I went outside with a broom to try to knock the snow off the trees and the dogs were having so much fun running and playing in the snow.  The snow is already half way to my knee and nowhere near slowing down.  Scott left work early because they say the storm is not even half over and we had to shovel to get his car up the drive way.

It's Officially a Snow Day!

Here is the view from my backyard this morning at 7:30 and they say the storm has not hit yet!  The whole Denver area is under a winter storm warning until 6 pm tomorrow expecting up to 10 inches in Denver and possibly 20 inches here in Douglas County. All the schools around here have a snow day today.  Scott left for work an hour early today and took his little Nissan that does not have snow tires on.  I kept bugging him to take my car because I had my snow tires put on last week, but he did not listen and now he called and said he is slip sliding around, I told you so.  I can't wait to see what it looks like later, I may have to make chili or soup today.  Good news is it will be in the 60's for Halloween.

Birthday Celebrations

Friday night we were invited over to Sean's girlfriend's parents home to celebrate birthdays.  I knew we were celebrating Sean and Fernanda's (Yael's sister) birthdays both October 22nd however, I was surprised to find they included my birthday as well.  As a mother with a quickly maturing son I worry he will meet a girl who's family is controlling or not so pleasant and I have to say this family is the complete opposite, a warm, sincere and fun family.  They welcomed us into their home with open arms and pampered us the entire evening with the best Mexican food ever, a scrumptious cake, gifts and pleasant conversation.  This family truly adores Sean and treats him with the great respect, such a relief me as his mother.  We only planned on staying a couple of hours, and as we neared four hours we decided to head home before we became too tired.  Scott and I do not know too many people in Colorado and miss having family to get together with and we felt instantly like family there.  Scott and I were so happy to finally meet this wonderful family and look forward to getting to know them even better.

My Baby Turns 18 Today!

Happy 18th Birthday Sean!

Winter today.....Fall Tomorrow

 

This morning I woke up to find a beautiful sunrise.  The snow has perched itself up on the leafed tree branches, the sky is clearing blue and amber colors are rising from the East. I had to capture pictures this morning because by the afternoon I'm sure the snow will have melted.

Still Snowing

All day long!  The snow has continued to fall throughout the day while I have fortunately been able to enjoy the beauty without concern for driving or shoveling.  At 5:30 PM the snow is just starting to stick to the roads after melting on impact all day.  Days like today I do not mind being unemployed.  There is something about sitting in the house with the drapes open while large snowflakes fall outside that is peaceful.  I do not miss driving all over Denver on a snow day pushing pharmaceuticals, although I do miss the paycheck.  Definitely made for a nice birthday today.  Scott is currently making my birthday dinner, I can't wait!

More Wacky Weather

Happy Wednesday!  I woke up to let Millie out and found it was snowing this morning!  Yes it is Wednesday morning and my last post was Sunday when it was like a summer day with 84 degrees.  I guess today I'm back to layering and the heater is on again. At least the snow is melting instantly on the roads since they are still warm. Not sure if you'd believe me without pictures so I included the red bush from my backyard I just posted a pic of this past weekend.

Disappointing Start to a Wonderful Day!

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Scott and I decided our exploration for today would be to Roxborough State Park, another natural beauty of Colorado less than 13 miles from our house.  I have a book on the "Best of Colorado" and was surprised to find one of the most scenic places is right by our house and we have never been there.  We packed our hiking backpacks, fed the dogs and had a good breakfast before heading out the door.  As we pulled up to the park with pure excitement, the park ranger informed us we would have to turn around and leave because the park was "at capacity".  What would we do now?  We were both so disappointed and did not have a back-up plan. We sadly went home moped for a bit and decided to make something out of the day.  Scott cleaned up the garden while I played with the dogs in the backyard.

We enjoyed nice barbecue and a nice walk with the dogs on our own Highlands Ranch neighborhood trail system.  We were really looking forward to Roxborough, but we did not let "at capacity" roadblock ruin our day.

By the way the temperature hit 84 degrees today (tank tops and shorts)! Hard to believe one week ago the high was 25 degrees (scarves, hats and gloves).  Proof that in Colorado you can't pack away your winter or summer clothes, you never know when you will need them.

Always Ready for Visitors!

I wash the sheets on the bed, dust and vacuum at least once a month just in case someone wants to come visit on short notice we are always ready! Millie will hang out in the room when I am not home according to Sean.  Not sure why?  But she loves having visitors too and maybe that has something to do with it?

Happy Saturday!

Today Scott and I caught an early movie and picked up Sean after to get a FatBurger.  We try not to eat too much of this kind of food and I had to look up the menu online and convince Scott there were healthier choices, such as the Turkey or Veggie burger.  I on the other hand do not deprive myself of a junk food craving, I just choose a smaller portion.  I was happy to find they had a "Baby Fat" burger, just enough to satisfy my craving.

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The dogs knew what a beautiful day it was and began jumping up and down when we came home begging for a walk.  We treated the dogs to an extra long walk, wearing them out and working off our burgers.  Today was another perfect weather day in Colorado!  Clear blue skies, 70 degrees and fall colors allowed for a very happy Saturday!  Maybe tomorrow we will get out of the neighborhood for a new Colorado adventure!

Just Another Beautiful Colorado Day

Today I took Sean to get a much needed haircut.  His girlfriend insists he looks better with long hair so he has been letting it grow out.  He did not get much cut off probably less than an inch.  As we drove home we discussed what a beautiful day it was, with clear deep blue skies where the Rockies stood out like a sore thumb and the temperature was pleasant in the 60's.   (Yes, the picture is after the haircut!)

When we arrived back home we went outside and goofed around with the dogs.  I did not want to go back in the house because it was so perfect outside, much better than last weekend's bizarre freezing weather. This weekend's forecast sunny and in the 70's.  Perfect for hiking!  I will have to talk to Scott tonight and decide if, when and where we should go.

Earlier this evening we took our walk a little later than usual right at sunset.  The sunset was a beautiful glowing amber shining from behind the Rockies.   I tried to capture a good picture, but I do not think my camera has what it takes.  Maybe someday I can get a nice quality camera, for all the beautiful Colorado picture opportunities?  Maybe someday after I get a descent job again and catch up?

Reason's to Reconsider the Flu Vaccination especially for Children

For everyone who has children and are concerned about the Swine Flu this year, I have been reading so much about the negative aspects and unknown outcomes of receiving the Swine Flu vaccination and encourage you to do the same before deciding to allow your children to be vaccinated.  The flu is usually not deadly and only those with compromised immune systems or an underlying health issue such as asthma should be concerned for any complications if they become ill.  So many toxic substances are added to vaccines in general and the Swine Flu vaccine is no exception.

Please do your research before any vaccination!  Is every vaccine necessary (29 vaccinations before age 2)?  Could the vaccine do more harm than good (especially the Swine Flu vaccination).  Here is a link to one interesting article I read "Do NOT Let Your Child Get Flu Vaccine -- 9 Reasons Why". 

1. This flu is simply another flu. It is not unusually deadly.
   
2. This is the first time both season and pandemic flu vaccines will be administered. Both seasonal flu and
   swine flu vaccines will require two inoculations. This is because single inoculations have failed to produce sufficient antibodies. This is an admission that prior flu vaccines were virtually useless. Can you trust them this time?
   
3. Adjuvants are added to vaccines to boost production of antibodies but may trigger autoimmune
   reactions. Some adjuvants are mercury (thimerosal), aluminum and squalene. Why would you sign a consent form for your children to be injected with mercury, which is even more brain-toxic than lead?
   
4. This is the first year mock vaccines have been used to gain FDA approval. The vaccines that have been
   tested are not the same vaccines your children will be given.
   
5. Over-vaccination is a common practice now in America. American children are subjected to 29 vaccines by the age of two. Meanwhile, veterinarians have backed off of repeat vaccination in dogs because of observed side effects.
   
6. Modern medicine has no explanation for autism, despite its continued rise in prevalence. Yet autism is
   not reported among Amish children who go unvaccinated.
   
7. Researchers are warning that over-use of the flu vaccine and anti-flu drugs like Tamiflu and Relenza can
   apply genetic pressure on flu viruses and then they are more likely to mutate into a more deadly strain.
   
8. Most seasonal influenza A (H1N1) virus strains tested from the United States and other countries are now resistant to Tamiflu (oseltamivir). Tamiflu has become a nearly worthless drug against seasonal flu.
   
9. Public health officials are irresponsible in their omission of any ways to strengthen immunity against the
   flu. No options outside of problematic vaccines and anti-flu drugs are offered, despite the fact there is strong evidence that vitamins C and D activate the immune system and the trace mineral selenium prevents the worst form of the disease.
   

Following the article Dr. Mercola discusses ways you can protect yourself and children without vaccinations.  One of which includes vitamin D as I had referenced in a previous post.  He goes on to list the different aspects of living a healthy lifestyle that so many other doctors and health care workers keep preaching for avoiding everything from cancer to diabetes.  I will summarize Dr. Mercola's list below however, for more detailed information please read his article.

1. Avoid sugar and processed foods: Decreases immune system

2. Adequate rest: Helps immune system work properly

3. Stress Management:  Have an action plan to control your stress

4. Exercise: Boosts immune system

5. Omega-3 fats:

6. Wash hands regularly

7. Garlic

8. Avoid hospitals and vaccines

Mercola, Dr. Joseph. "Why You Should NOT Vaccinate Your Children Against the Flu This Season." Merocla.com. Dr. Joseph Mercola, 28 Sept. 2009. Web. Retrieved 16 Oct. 2009. <http://www.mercola.com>.

The Day After

Saturday was as cold as they predicted with a new record low of 17 (old record 24) degrees in Denver.  Oddly, the high of only 25 degrees on Saturday was about the same as the old record low and it was 56 degrees in Aspen when it was 25 in Denver?  Weird! Barely any snow feel only a dusting however, the extreme cold weather resulted in a postponement of the Rockies/Phillies Playoff game.

Scott and I headed out to Park Meadows Mall to window shop and enjoy a warm coffee.  The dogs wanted to go on a walk but I was not feeling like walking in the ice cold. 

Sunday Scott and I woke up early to hit the early show at AMC where you can see a movie before noon for $6.  We decided to see Paranormal Activity because of all the hype.  I usually do not go to scary movies because I have bad nightmares but I compromised.  The movie was different in many ways like the quietness, lack of action or gore (all good with me).  My biggest complaint was the motion sickness I experienced as a result of the constant camera movement.

After the movie we headed home to see the kickoff of the Broncos game (Go Broncos 5-0!) and during half time we decided to take the dogs on a walk since the temperature was up to a warm 35 degrees.  The entire walk we felt like we were in a ghost town.  We never see the park and trails so empty.  I'm not sure if the vacancy was a result of the extremely cold day or Broncos Game? Maybe a little of both? Either way the dogs were happy to get out of the house and have the trails to themselves.

The weather is so unseasonably cold the leaves are just giving up and falling off the trees while they are still green.  Well all I can say is at least we live in Colorado and know a couple days of freezing in early October does not mean winter is coming early.  By Wednesday back in the 60's and next weekend forecast is in the 70's.

Taking Advantage of the Calm Before the Storm

After yesterday's super cold day with temperatures at only 1/2 the average (35 instead of 70), today was a pleasant 50 degrees and the news channels warned we will hit record lows starting tonight and through the weekend with snow in the forecast as well.  This is a big deal for Denver this weekend as the Rockies are hosting playoff games on Saturday and Sunday (in risk of being delayed or canceled) and the Broncos (4-0) host the Patriots on Sunday.  The news predicts the Rockies Saturday night game will be the coldest in history (below 28 degrees).  Scott and I were looking forward to exploring more of Colorado this weekend but I guess we will not even be comfortable going on a walk with the dogs according to the forecast.  So we grabbed the leashes and enjoyed a nice long walk with the dogs tonight and took a few pictures before everything freezes. 

Calm before the storm!

Cold Day = Sweet Warm Chili

When I woke up today and felt the chill in the house I decided it would be a great day for a crockpot of Chili.  I usually make too much food since I am used to cooking for a large family and still haven't figured how to scale back.  However, when I make certain entrees such as chili, soup, spaghetti and enchiladas I still cook big and Scott and I eat left overs for days, lunch and dinner, never getting sick of it.  Sean on the other hand will it once maybe twice and then forget it.  We just tell him too bad make a sandwich or heat up a pot pie, easy mac or something.  Today I scrounged through the fridge and spices cabinet and through in this and that since I did not plan on making chili.  Apparently I had everything I needed and boy did it turn out good.  I can try to share the recipe, but like I said I just kind of added as I went.

First I added olive oil to a warm frying pan and browned 1lb of hamburger with half of a chopped up onion, I added about 1 teaspoon of chili powder while I browned. Meanwhile I added the other ingredients into the crockpot and turned to slow cook (8 hrs although it was ready in 6).

2 cans diced tomatoes

2 cans tomato sauce

1 can corn

3 can's Bush's Chili Beans

4 stalks of celery chopped

1 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper

1 teaspoon Cinnamon

2 tablespoons minced garlic

Once the hamburger and onion where browned I added to the crock pot and stirred it all up.

About 6 hours later it was ready and wow what a nice warm meal it turned out to be.

First Snowfall of the Year

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The snow is falling in our green back yard as I sit down to share this craziness.  Yesterday was 70 degrees and today snow and they say next week is back to 70?  Okay.  I think it is quite bizarre to see snow falling when many trees are still green and the grass is green.  Although I am an Arizona girl, so fall and snow are both new concepts to me.  Both are beauties of nature I have been missing all these years.

Top Ten Things I Don't Miss About Arizona

1. Being burnt by the seat belt, steering wheel and anything else in my car (one time I left my debit card in the car and I had to order a new one because the heat deformed it)
2. Not being able to breathe for ten minutes after getting into my 130 degree car and by the time it cooled down I was at my destination and my back was wet with sweat.
3. A breeze feels like a blow dryer in your face and shade does not feel cooler
4. On a nice day heading to the Zoo to find everyone else had the same idea
5. Expensive car insurance (Car thefts, red light runners and grouchy irritated hot drivers)
6. Air conditioning bills (running the air conditioner from Easter to Thanksgiving)
7. Snow birds (when the weather becomes nice the traffic gets worse, restaurants, shopping and other fun things to do are too crowded)
8. Flat (In the Valley and west to California)
9. Getting home from the grocery store as quickly as possible so my ice cream wouldn't melt and other items would not go bad
10. Jumping into a warm pool on a hot summer day

Top Ten Things I Miss About Arizona

1. Family Get Togethers

 

 

2. Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf
3. Ikea
4. The beautiful drive from Mesa to Forest Lakes
5. Tie: Good Mexican food and Saguaro Cacti
6. Weekend Trips to: Las Vegas, San Diego, Disneyland, Universal Studios, Mexico
7. Day Trips to: Sedona, Jerome, Tucson, Forest Lakes and Saguaro Lake
8. Arizona State University, "Go Sun Devils!!!" and TEMPE
9. Swimming Pools
10. Never having to drive in or shovel snow