Tuesday, December 30, 2008

Chicken Rotini



As many of you probably already know, Jen and I love to cook. When I say cook, I don't mean that we wear cute little aprons and fight over who gets to tear open the cheese packet to mix with the macaroni. At the very least we attempt to create a culinary orgasm once a week. We have now decided to share some of these delights. The first in a series of recipes is our Chicken Rotini. This is a simple recipe that any level cook could feel good about serving.

Ingredients:

1 lg chicken breast (or 2 small) 1 16 oz box of rotini noodles

1 lg shallot (or 2 small) 1 15 oz can of petite diced tomatoes

1 15 oz can of tomato sauce 1 t kosher salt

1/2 t garlic salt 1/2 t dried basil

1/2 t dried oregano 1/2 t dried cumin

1/2 t seasoned pepper 1/2 t fresh ground pepper

1 dash of paprika 1 T parsley

1 T chives 1 t non-pareil capers (in water)

1-2 t brown sugar 1 oz Jim Beam whiskey (optional)

Bring water to boil in large pot with 1T olive oil and 1T kosher salt, add rotini. Chop shallots in to slices. Add shallots, spices, brown sugar, and capers to large sauce pan with 3T of extra virgin olive oil. Saute shallots and seasonings until shallots are translucent and browned. Deglaze the pan with the whiskey and stir in diced tomatoes. Simmer for about 1 minute and add chicken(diced to about 3/4" cubes). Cook chicken through then add tomato sauce. Reduce heat and simmer until noodles are done. Strain noodles and remove sauce from heat. Serve noodles topped with sauce and garnish with parsley. You also can add 1 cup diced mushrooms to this dish for additional succulence (add with tomato sauce).

Tuesday, December 16, 2008

Christmastime

Of all the holidays we celebrate within a year, Christmas has always been one of my most favorites. Each time a new year begins, I make a vow to celebrate each holiday as much as Christmas. The only one that I succeed with is Fourth of July. As the years have passed and we continue on as just the two of us, it becomes harder to celebrate any holiday. We often think of all that we miss out on. Like creating outrageous costumes at Halloween, devising the most intricate Easter egg hunt, or even giving blow out birthday parties. We also find ourselves dreaming up ways we'd pass on skills such as life skills learned while camping/hunting/fishing or the simple pleasures of sitting around a kitchen table and playing killer games of Scrabble. Christmas last year was totally bypassed as we had started a living room remodel, found we needed a whole new wiring update to the house, and plunged into a full kitchen renov as well. This time last year we were living out of a microwave, chain-drinking Dr. Peppers, and cranking the Sirius Octane tunes while hacking out cabinets, ripping up 5 layers of floor, and discovering a 4 x4 concrete patch in the living room. I missed the holiday terribly. In the beginning I had gotten out my nutcracker collection, put a poinsettia on top of the fridge (the safest place during the whole destruction), and made the annual Christmas goodies. I even tried to celebrate by decking out each Christmas present with ribbons and homemade tags. My usual Christmas card I send out was simple as I didn't have much time or any energy.
As Christmas has come again this year, I find myself wishing we were in the middle of another large project. Again, in the beginning, I was overly excited! I spent all day Super Friday getting out all my ornaments, cleaning them of any dust, and reminiscing about each one as I carefully set them in their place of honor. Once Bryan came home, I made him immediately hop back in the truck and head back to work to get our Christmas tree. We came home and I had him move our furniture and put the tree in our window corner. I then totally expected for him to jump in and become as enchanted as I was, and help decorate the tree. Unfortunately this was not the case (having to be at work at 3 am, and then not home until past 4 pm, and having a wife drag you back to where you just were to go shopping can cause disinterest). So I set to work creating the perfect tree. I carefully wrapped the lights throughout the tree and then draped the tinsel as inconsistent as possible to create a natural look. Then each tree ornament was pulled out and given 2-3 minutes time scrutiny for where it best belonged. As I went through each step, I slowly become sad. Realizing in a "normal" family this would be shared by all, not just me. Each night in December since has been spent thinking of what we're missing. I'll never drag a family around in a Suburban singing silly carols at the top of our lungs while checking out which neighborhood has the best Christmas light display. I won't get the secret joy of knowing that Santa made a wish come true, or see the wide smiles, lit up eyes, or screaming throes of a satisfied Christmas wish list. I won't know the 4 am shopping at Shopko for the perfect toy; which by the way, I don't think I'll miss too badly. But most of all, I won't feel the bonding love that gives life meaning.
Now, before I get too far into my pity party, realize that while I'm heartbroken that my dreams did not come true in this life, I haven't lost sight of enjoying the present that has been given to me. A life. And I'm making the most of it. Bryan and I are soul mates; we have never been stronger in our relationship and know that together we make our lives full. Children would only add; not complete. I've been able to enjoy my most favorite activities at any time I wish. Traveling to the extent we have would not be possible with small children. My career would have never occurred, and Jax and Nivia may not have been part of our lives. My house is always spotless, just the way I like it. And Bryan can get out his tools whenever he wants and tinker about on his cars. Our music can be played at full volume at 11 pm without waking little minds. I now look forward to Halloween, as it is our special date night (no kids at restaurants, hardly any patrons, and Bryan sometimes gets lucky and we watch a "somewhat" scary movie).

So to all those out there who DO have children: stop being jealous of those who do not have this blessing. Every day tell yourself that those precious souls are worth every second. I would trade my life in a heartbeat. I would gladly give away my freedom, my career, and traveling to experience a child's life in our family. Just because this particular dream has not come true, does not mean I've selfishly bypassed it or need advice on how to make a baby. All we need is friendship, true friendship. A shoulder to cry on when the bottom of the bottle is found, a reassuring smile to know that this doesn't matter to you, and a thoughtful and OPEN mind. I don't ask for much, just an understanding that all is ok and to be there if ever needed. This is why family is always important at the holidays.

Friday, November 21, 2008

North Carolina, USA

I know, it's about time. In early October, we took a trip to Charlotte, NC to see our first NASCAR race. We decided in July to take the opportunity to watch race #5 of the Chase at Lowe's Motor Speedway. Yes, Lowe's was chosen due to discounts that could be given due to Bryan's employement there. Alas, the cheap seats are in turn 2, and Bryan had his heart set on the start/finish line. So much for deals. We planned a long weekend visit, arriving Wednesday evening. As there was no racing on Thursday, I routed out an American war tour. We drove out to Greensboro and visited a Revolutionary War battle site. From the information we learned, it sounds as if this particular scuffle was a run up to the turning point for "U.S." the Americans. There were several memorials. One was of General Nathaneal Greene who commanded the deep respect (more like fear) of General Cornwallis. We then headed towards a Civil War military cemetary. At this location are 11 trenches filled with thousands of Union soldiers who died during their imprisonment by the Confederates. The cemetary has been expanded to include the dead from all American wars. One of the most recent headstones was from a soldier who gave his life in Iraqi Freedom. He was only 18 years old. May we never forget the sacrifices given by those who want to ensure our freedom.
Friday morning we went out to a small plantation (should have been called a farm). The area was beautiful, and the house was striking, but all of the other out buildings were replicas. I thought I would feel a sense of hope lost, as several slaves had worked the land, but there was nothing of the sort. I chalk it up to the size; I can't imagine the life here was pleasant. Into the afternoon we headed to the first of our two main events, the Nationwide series race. Bryan wanted to arrive extremely early, but I made him wait until 2 pm, which ended up being good. The race didn't start until 8 pm, and as you have a reserved seat, there are no lines waiting to get in. We arrived so early, we got to watch qualifying for the race, 2 Sprint Cup practices and much boredom. We went somewhat cheap on these seats. Still at the start/finish line we sat up in the nosebleed section. It was a good choice as it did rain that night some, and we were under the box seats, which kept us from getting wet. It also allowed for the best angles of picture taking. We could get the start/finish line and all 4 turns at a bird's eye view. Jimmie chose to participate in this event and drove the Lowe's #5 car. He didn't fare well, and ended up wrecking out. We were able to get some shots of him on the large screen while waiting in rain delay. By the 2/3 point, Kyle Busch was leading the race and was definitely going to win. Since Jimmie was no longer in the mix, we decided to head out early.
Saturday was the BIG event! Once again we headed to the track extremely early. This time we spent forever outside the gates waiting for the clock to hit 2 pm so we could put our pit passes to good use. We were hoping to get a glimpse of Jimmie, if not a signature from him, Chad Knaus maybe, and even try to get Jr. Once into the track, we had the displeasure of finding out pit passes are for that only, the "pits". Meaning where the cars stop to get fresh tires, fuel and wedge adjustments. It was the biggest waste of money ever spent. To see the drivers you had to purchase a garage pass. DO NOT FORGET THIS IF YOU CHOOSE TO GO TO A RACE!!! We tried to make the most of our unfortunate event, and took several pictures of Jimmie's pit, and some of Jr.'s and even got one of Elliot Sadler's (Bryan wanted to meet him to ask his "cousin" to give him a job). I grew bored of the pit pass quickly and we headed to our seats. We got to sit in the multi-colored chairs on row 13 across from the start/finish line. The lady who sat next to us was from Knoxville and was the friendliest stranger I've ever met. She let me borrow her People magazine to help with my boredom and kept a constant stream of chatter with Bryan. She took the picture of us on the track, which turned out really nice. We also got to enjoy a free concert of Jessica Simpson. Southerners love her, but I found her to be definitely ditzy, out of breath after just a few lines of song, and the biggest idiot at trying to raise awareness of breast cancer. Her show should have been a comedy tour. After her performance the race finally began. Jimmie didn't do very well; he seemed to be extremely loose the entire race. On the final laps he did give a shot for the lead with Jeff Burton, but his heart just didn't seem to be in it. It's amazing, during those 5-10 laps, I found myself becoming extremely agitated and realized I was shouting and cheering him on as loudly as possible. Who would've thunk?! I tend to be so quiet and reserved. Bryan preferred the nosebleeds as pictures were hard to get down at the racetrack. On the last few laps, we watched Matt Kenseth get turned around. The whole scenario played out right in front of us and was amazing to watch. While at home, you have to rely on the network to get lucky and be on the right camera. We'll never get a better view of a car wreck. We did stay until the last lap, but once Jeff Burton took the checkers, we skedaddled out of there. We didn't want to watch the festivities of one of our least favorite drivers, and didn't want to be stuck in traffic with a million drunk rednecks. We spent maybe 20 minutes in line waiting to get out. It was perfect!
Sunday we headed to the Appalachia mountains. I was expecting hilly grandeur but was greeted with the most ridiculous set of hills I've ever seen. There was no "smoky" mountains as the weather was too hot for mist to form. The traffic was ridiculous, and we ended up having to head our way out through the Tennessee side. Just so everyone knows, on the TN side of Great Smoky Mountains Nat'l Park is Dollyland, meaning Dolly Parton. Bryan and I haven't laughed so hard in our lives. There are amusement park rides along the strip, the most common being NASCAR go-cart thrill rides. It honestly was Dolly"HELL"land. We finally did escape and were even more disappointed once we realized we hadn't seen any wooden buildings (this park is meant to have the largest concentration of 1800s structure than anywhere else in the south; what a joke).
Monday was our last day, and once again we headed over to Hendrick's. Donny, the driver who came to Utah in July to do the Logan car show with the #48 show car, had invited to give us a personal tour of the shops. He had Robert, a gentleman who had worked with Hendrick for over 30 years. He took us through the engine shop, machine shop, the #24, #48, #88, and #5 shops, the rear end and car build shops, the show car shop, and even practice sessions for pit crews. He tried to snag us a ruined alternator cover, but another employee saw us about to walk out with it and had to take it back. There are no cameras inside the engine and machine shops, and nothing leaves without special permission. Bummer. While we were in the #88 shop, we got to touch Jr's helmet (ooooohhhhh!). We even got to see Jr.'s wrecked car from Saturday night's race. They had already cut out all the good sheet metal. In the trash, Robert rounded up a couple pieces of the race cars for us to have as souvenirs. We also saw Steve LeTarte in the #24 shop, and the back of Chad Knaus' head (although at the time we had no idea who it was). He was a goldmine of information, and we will be ever grateful to him for our experience.
We flew home on Tuesday and were happy to be home. The Rocky Mountains are majestic, and we appreciate them so much more now after having such a dismal experience with the Appalachias. If you ever find yourself in the position to enjoy a NASCAR race, DO IT! It is an experience you will be happy you did.

Monday, November 3, 2008

2010 Camaro at SEMA
















Here are some versions of the new Camaro for SEMA. Notice the 70-81 style spoiler. The LS7(427) will be showcased as a GMperformance parts option for the car reminiscent of the Yenko and COPO cars of 1969. GM has put a lot of focus on their stupid fuel efficient V6, so far 84% of the Camaros that have been pre-ordered have been V8 SS models. Once again it is apparent they focused on the wrong thing. No matter mine will be outfitted with the LS7 unless something better comes along before then.

Saturday, October 25, 2008

2010 Camaro

2010 Camaro Sketch For SEMA Show

Saturday, October 11, 2008

Bank of America 500

10 seconds of NASCAR

Monday, September 29, 2008

Wolves in Sheep's Clothing

As the whole economic "crisis" unfolds, and we Americans watch and listen diligently, it is our duty to call out those in the political realm who do not uphold party ideals, especially American dreams. The following is an email I sent to Senator Bob Bennett after hearing of his position on the Bailout legislation.

Senator,
I heard about your phone call from the concerned new car dealer, who most likely wouldn't continue to get short term bank loans to pay his employees. I find it appalling that you think this person needs help with the "bailout". This man chooses to take loans to pay his people instead of cutting back on his paycheck. And if he can't get these loans? His business will not go under. No car manufacturer would ever let a dealership fold; it would be bad for business. This dealership will be sold. The owner will make out with millions, while he was part of the problem. Business owners who cannot fiscally run their company will lose their holdings to those who are responsible. It is not MY duty to give this man help; nor is it yours. You were elected by a process that is meant to be democratic. You were not put in office because you know better than the people. You were elected because the people felt you were the choice that would put their views into vote. Our financial system needs new laws, and old laws reinstated, to be fixed, not taxpayer money. The greediness of the rich has broken the system, and now asks the middle and lower classes to pay the consequences.
America is great because of her people, not her government. You ran for the Republican party, won a Republican seat, and now act as a Democrat in sheep's clothing. Do not change our forefathers' dreams of a free people to those of socialism.

Do not sit and let our elected officials lead us down a path of destruction. We have sat by too many times and have gone so very far on this journey. Now is the time to stand, and voice your opinion, and make it be heard. America is WE the people, BY the people, FOR the people.

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

More SS




High-Res pics of our soon to be new car.

Wednesday, September 3, 2008

Global War-ming

Our recent experience with "global warming" has compelled me to stop and re-evaluate my position on the matter. This entire year has seen temperatures below normal highs in our area including snow just last Monday. Maybe there is something to this "global warming". When I was a kid CFC's from moms hairspray were going to tear apart our ozone layer and kill us all slowly with skin cancer, then came Hydro Carbons that threatened to combine in our atmosphere to create disaster for our ozone once again. Now a new threat has emerged since the others failed, and our end is near. Carbon Dioxide an inert gas is going to sneak in and slow cook the earth while we sleep. Well I for one am not going to stand here and watch the world go to hell in an easy bake oven. As mammals we take in oxygen and exhale the earth raping, baby killing, destroying angel, "Carbon Dioxide", sometimes referred to as CO2 in demonic worshipping circles. My solution is simple, if you feel that it's time to do your part to save the earth from CO2 then you must remove yourself from the earth. Devoted earth savers can band together and board ships to jettison into space preventing the poison gases from being released on earth. If you can't find anybody as faithful as you or can't find a way to get off the earth then maybe you should just hold your breath until they come up with a new way for the earth to fall in to peril.

Please go to the following link for a video presentation, it might just change your life.
http://www.fubiz.net/blog/index.php?2008/09/18/2229-global-warming-quercus

Tuesday, August 26, 2008

Return of the SS



Here it is, the official pictures of the 2010 SS Camaro. They dropped the ball on a number of things like the fuel filler door, the lack of functionability in the hood scoop, and the wheel sizes and flare of the fenders. When we get ours(if we don't get a Challenger or CTS-V) we will have to change a number of things. But for the most part it's better than not having a Camaro at all. Now if they can put some horsepower in it nothing else will matter.

Thursday, August 14, 2008

Old House, Old Boxcar, Old Town

Just some more pictures for y'all to check out. Learning digital is challenging and it will never replace film for emotion in photography but dang you can shoot a ton of shots.

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Kiss My Grass


Just thought y'all might like this sunset shot. No photoshop here, just pure photo magic. Click on the picture for a larger view, note the detail in the wheat.

Sunday, July 27, 2008

Twin Falls Air Show

This year was meant to be the year for the air show at HAFB. Unfortunately the Thunderbirds had a scheduling conflict, and the show was cancelled. Being extremely disappointed, we began a search for other air shows that were nearby. We found Twin Falls was to have a show in July with the Blue Angels, and we made plans. Earlier this week, we checked up on the show, and found that for "security" reasons, the airport would not allow umbrellas, more than 1 water bottle per person, and NO coolers; and that to enter was $20 per person! As we are capitalists, that feel full capitalism should be in effect, we made the decision to find the closest park and watch the show there. No fees would have to be paid, we could have our umbrella, as much water as needed, and all the food we could pig out on.

Our adventure began early, with us leaving at 6 am. The drive to Twin Falls was nice as the traffic was sparse and had no other Utahns on the road. We arrived around 9 am and began to look for a spot to park and watch. The road next to the airport was closed to parking, one more socialistic "perk". We headed further south to the next road, and found a sign that directed us to the Lucky 7 ranch. Here was G Mack. He made his land available to the public for a fee of $5 a car and you could park anywhere, stay as long as you want, and provided water, popsicles and Johnny Cash. It was a blast at the Lucky 7; we had the perfect view of the airfield, had almost every plane fly over us, with a buzz from the F-16, and 3 from the Blue Angels (with the last buzz being all six jets!). We also got to meet "Old Lucky", G Mack's mustang. He was beautiful, and skittish about my umbrella, but curious to no end.

Most of the air show was down time, as Twin Falls was poor at the scheduling. However, the show that each pilot provided (from the jets) were amazing. I've never seen a Mig sordie performed so well, and the F-16 had a blast coming out to see our large gathering at the Lucky 7. We also had the perfect horizon view to watch where all the jets headed to prepare for each manuever. And being buzzed by the Falcon and Hornets was the ultimate experience. Most air shows don't provide this heart-pumping phenomenon. The only disappointment, we wish we had a flag to wave to the pilots. We'll definitely remember next time.

The Ace of Spades, the Ace of Spades

One of our friend's has an overly mature 4 year old. He recently had a friend at his house for dinner, and both began to out-do the other with the best possible story. Hayden mentioned some place he'd been, and Brad fired back with a better place. Hayden then said he'd been to St. George and Brad aimed with Disneyland. That's when Hayden pulled the hidden card. He asked "Do you know Bryan and Jen?" The friend looked puzzled and said, "No." And Hayden finalized the conversation with "ohh!" Who would have thought we'd be the ultimate one-up? :) (Now would be the perfect time to listen to "The Ace of Spades" by Motorhead.)

Saturday, July 12, 2008

Here at Ten

I never would have guessed simple flirting would find the love of your life. It all started with an invitation to go swimming at a cousin's house. Which turned into sharing a Hagen Daaz Ice Cream carton at Barnes Park in Kaysville. The close proximity was perfect for a first kiss, and was much enjoyed. The next day I was invited to spend time with the extended family, which was a big step for only the "third" date. As true soul mates do, love was professed and returned, and the beginning of Crimson and Howitzer was initiated.
A decade seems like an eternity, but time keeps ticking and it passes by. It's nice to know that your best friend is always by your side, through wonderful and horrible. Many more decades will pass, and we know each ten year mark will be as significant as this first one.

Jimmie's in Town




For the annual Cache Valley Car Show, Howitzer worked with Hendrick Motor Sports and was able to get the Lowe's Chevrolet Impala 48 in town. Donny (the driver who was in charge of the car) showed up Saturday with the trailer. Having just experienced the DeWalt car in April, we didn't expect the awesome show that Lowe's put on. Donny actually fired up the 48 to back out of the trailer, and then shot down the street to the car show entrance. Howitzer was able to get in with the car, and help lead Donny to his spot. We then spent the day at the show, and spent a lot of time by the 48. We also had the special treat of having a "real" race car. The car that was brought was the backup for the Sonoma race. Due to the geographical location, bringing the regular show car was not cost effective.

We also were the help in leading Donny back to the trailer, and giving him an escort to the Lowe's store in Logan. The employees and customers were anxious to see the car. Although the parade did not turn out as hoped, the 48 was still able to make a streak down Main and back. It was more unique to see an illegal street car amongst all the regular Logan traffic. Overall it was a great experience, and we can't wait to go to Charlotte in October and see the Bank of America race (and watch Jimmie win!!!).

Monday, June 30, 2008

Fleeced

You absolutely must read Fleeced written by Dick Morris. You will just about die when you find out that the terrorists are just about running our country. Wake up and don't get Fleeced.

Sunday, June 29, 2008

Dan and Suzy had their baby on June 26th. His name is Kaden and he was 8lbs 9oz, sorry no pictures to show at this time.

Monday, June 9, 2008

Jax and Nivia


Jax is a patient, laid-back, true blue personality. He is extremely friendly and is a loyal friend. Nivia is high-strung, but undying with her love; she has herself wrapped around our little fingers. Both bring a completeness to our lives. Without them, life would be dull and very quiet. We love them deeply and wouldn't trade for anything better.

Jax is 5 1/2 years old. His age is starting to show with graying hairs around his chin. His eyebrows are also staring to droop. It makes us sad to see our baby grow old.

Nivia is still a pup at 2 years. She has so much energy and bowls Jax over constantly. Every night, she has to have "loves" before she'll curl up in a tiny ball and go to sleep.

Both have knit themselves into our hearts and will always keep their special places.

Yellowstone Trip Spring 2008

We have been traveling to YNP since the spring of 2003. Spring is our most favorite season in the park. There are less people, less traffic to deal with and the animals are out often stretching from the long winter.
This year we viewed 16 bears (5 Grizzlies, 11 Black), 3 moose, a fox, 3 coyotes, 2 Bighorn sheep, a Golden eagle, a Bald eagle, several large elk, a number of Pronghorn, and millions of buffalo. The snow level in the park was the deepest we've seen at this time of year. At the south entrance, the snow was still 1 1/2 to 2 feet deep; but the temperatures and weather were perfect.
We encountered many ar-tards. These are humans that do not know how to properly pull off to the side of the road and take their digital photos of buffalo they will see everywhere in the park. This level of obnoxiousness also occurs with bears and wolves. It spoils the experience.
Please enjoy the slideshow of our vacation!

Reasons Why the Left Are Never Right

This retard Obama really thinks that raising taxes on oil companies and lowering the gas tax on consumers will lower the price of gasoline. Here is some reality for that America hating moron. The oil companies only pull down a profit margin of about 7% compared to normal businesses that on average pull down about 30%. The big profits come from massive volume. So if the oil companies are bringing in 7% and we tax them more then they will have no choice to pass that exact dollar amount on to the consumer. What would this accomplish? Well the government would still get their money and stupid people would believe that the government did try to help them when it was just a smoke and mirror trick.

Friday, June 6, 2008

Combat Economic Terrorism

Please go to Americansolutions.com and sign the petition to support the Drill Here initiative. Do it or you will become a Tree Huggin', Prius Driving, Sandal Wearing, Rainbow Loving, Granola Eating, Pointless Protesting, Dreadlock Braiding, Bad Hygiene, Latte Sipping, Smug Liberal.