Category: Family

If a dying dog and a little boy have a bucket lists, maybe I should too.

by CrazyUsFamily / Travel

Honestly, it never occurred to me to have one, a bucket list, that is.

Me Yesterday doing homework pre-bucket list
Me Yesterday doing homework pre-bucket list

A few days ago across my Instagram feed I read that a friend’s young son crossed two items off of his bucket list: riding an elephant and zip-lining through the Panamanian jungle. I must admit, I am impressed. Then earlier today, while skimming my newsfeed, the following headline caught my eye:  “Woman adopts dying dog, treats him to bucket list.” Really? A dog gets a bucket list? As part of his doggy bucket list, Chester (that is his name), the fourteen-year-old hospice dog, received extra treats, oatmeal baths, and a photo shoot. Go Chester! Of course he has a Facebook Page, from where I gleaned much of this information, and also learned that Chester passed away a few hours ago. R.I.P., beloved dog!

Kyle and I, Oahu on our first visit to Hawaii
Kyle and I, Oahu on our first visit to Hawaii

I have spent the entire day perched in front of my laptop reading and then analyzing early twentieth century literature (um yes, B-O-R-I-N-G)! I wrote three critical analysis essays, and appropriately MLA-cited all of them.  I think I may just have nodded off telling you this. Anyway, because I am taking an online course, my teacher (Dr. Professor) emailed me (I have yet to meet him). He stated that because I am doing proficiently in his class, he will not be giving me much feedback and that he will be leaving me alone. ALONE? Let me tell you that being left alone with authors such as Tennessee Williams, T.S. Eliot and Willa Cather can do. Reading their sad, bleak stories, plays or poems, after sad, bleak story, play or poem can flip one’s sad and melancholy switch!  My switch is definitely flipped. My mind is filled with thoughts like the old farmer who drops dead alone at his farm and the most hopeless and dysfunctional Glass-Menagerie family. My head is spinning and my brain is all a-fluster.

Moments ago I decided to take a break and take the boys to dinner. They ate. I bought a salad. And as we walked home, Kyle reached out, grabbed my hand and asked,

“Mom is something wrong?”

“Nope. Just homework brain.” I said and continued, “my brain is in the zone, the super focused homework zone. And if I leave it, it is really hard to find it again.” We all laughed and continued walking. They get it.  And I think Kyle and I are as determined as I am for me to graduate. As a mother, I want to finish this goal once and for all. I need to show them that they can accomplish anything too (rule the world).

Wait!

Wait a minute.

Hold on!

Doesn’t graduating from college qualify as a bucket list item? OMG, I have been bucket-listing and I didn’t even know it.

Us, Costa Rica
Us, Costa Rica

I was curious. What is a bucket list? And really, I thought bucket lists were for humans, more specifically, humans who are currently terminal (dying). We all saw the movie, right?  And the movie’s IMDB synopsis clearly supports as much: “Two terminally ill men escape from a cancer ward and head off on a road trip with a wish list of to-dos before they die.” I actually thought bucket lists began as the things you want to accomplish when you are close to death (terminal). I am happy to report that the idea of a bucket list has morphed its way through our cultural lexicon. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, a bucket list is “a list of things that a person hopes to experience or achieve during his or her lifetime.” Fantastic!

There is absolutely nothing out of the ordinary about dying dogs or adventurous young boys making a list of their own. (Ok. In truth, I am still confused about the dog.)

The Dolomites, Italy
The Dolomites, Italy
Easy E in the Dolomites, Italy, December 2013. I promise we will go back to ski!
Easy E in the Dolomites, Italy, December 2013. I promise we will go back to ski!

As of now, I believe that we have established that graduating from college should be on my bucket list, right? That being said, completing such a perfunctory goal feels well, perfunctory, a to-do list, if you will. If I wrap my head around say the movie-version of a Bucket List than the entire concept moves from to-do to fun. Get it? I also realized (after writing this and while on a walk with Kyle) that there is a correlation to bucket lists and stating your intention. Remember that super popular book (from 2006), The Secret? Wikipedia reminds me that The Secret “is based on the law of attraction and claims that positive thinking can create life-changing results such as increased happiness, health, and wealth.” Maybe the lady who wrote the book (Rhonda Byrne) stole a little from the idea of a bucket list. Simply put, a bucket list, like The Secret (as cheesy as it may sound), is just another way of putting it out there. When you list (or state your intention), crazy impossible seeming things, like riding an elephant in Southeast Asia, or graduating from college, actually happen.

Reach big and all I must admit that I have always felt a little uncomfortable stating my intentions. And then when I shake the silly insecurity out of me, I see that a bucket list is a really healthy and fun way to give our life purpose. I believe that everyone deserves to dream crazy big, and that every one deserves to achieve their dreams! So why not bucket list? Ok. I think I will. Without much effort I know that at the top of my bucket list is travel, (which I think most people know even if I have not statement my intention out loud — wink, wink). I wish I could be more specific regarding travel (and I will try). The truth is, if I am exploring a new place, I feel like I have accomplished the impossible. Does that make sense? And then my random wanderlust begs the question,

“can you retroactively add things to your bucket list? I say, yes. Absolutely! Why not?”

Before I state mine (or retroactively adjust mine — wink, wink), what are your bucket list dreams? Maybe I could steal some of them. I am completely open to suggestions and thank you!

Us, Florence, Italy
Us, Florence, Italy

Beth’s Bucket List:

  1. [check] Hawaii
  2. All of the Hawaiian Islands (so close — still need Molokai and Lanai)
  3. Paris/stand at the top of the Eiffel Tower (this is my true, little-girl-dreams-bucket-list item and we are going there next month)
  4. Graduate from college (you know I have to do this. I am very very close.)
  5. Visit  Rome and Giolitti (truth be told, this will be a revolving door bucket list item)
  6. Ride an elephant (in honor of a very adventurous young man)
  7. Travel to Southeast Asia: Singapore, Viet Nam (river cruise) and Thailand
  8. China, Thailand, and Taiwan
  9. Iceland (longboarding there like Walter Mitty because the boys want me to — and of course visit Christian and Mallory)
  10. Peru and Machu Picchu
  11. Climbing to the top of Mt. Timpanogos, Utah
  12. Remain standing while riding a surfboard (in Hawaii, of course)
  13. Australia and New Zealand (go to the place Hobbits and Elves lived — ah-hem, or filmed a movie)
  14. Waterski on Lake Minnetonka (hometown goal)
  15. Travel via land and or sea through the Fjords in Norway
  16. Vist the Hotel Koener in Luxembourg because I am related to the owners.
  17. Ski in the Dolomites (for Eli)
  18. Live overseas (Asia or Europe, specifically France)
  19. Canoe the Boundary Waters, Minnesota
  20. Go to the Faroes Islands because Matthew Workman makes them seem very cool.
  21. Visit Mont Saint Michel, France
  22. Visit Every state in the U.S. (getting close)
  23. Africa (I am a little nervous about a safari, but will do it for Dave and the boys)
  24. A Mediterranean Cruise (I think. In theory I really want to do this. Maybe just visit the Mediterranean.)
  25. Climb to the highest point of every major place we visit.
  26. Get Sponsored for travel writing (Kyle gave me this one.  What a great and supportive kid.)
Kyle drew and then framed this most awesome picture for me. Giolitti, Rome, Italy
Kyle drew and then framed this most awesome picture for me. Giolitti, Rome, Italy

Then I asked Dave to give me his bucket list. I love it. I am glad we are married, because his list is really cool.

Dave’s Bucket List:

    1. [check]Visit the world’s cheapest Michelin Starred restaurant (Tim Ho Wan, Hong Kong)
    2. [check][check] Stay in the world’s tallest hotel and swim in the world’s highest swimming pool: (currently The Ritz Carlton Hong Kong)
    3. [check] Travel around the continent in a VW camper van
    4. Fly around the world (in first class, stopping along the way)[beth here. I am happy to participate in this list item]
    5. Raft the Grand Canyon
    6. Visit Cappadocia and other sights in Turkey
    7. Own (or subscribe to) a self-driving car
    8. Hike the Inca Trail (Dude, I just learned that the Inca Trail goes to Machu Picchu. How cool is that? Dave and I can combine list items.)
    9. Glacier National Park chalet hiking
    10. Mountain bike from Telluride to Moab
    11. Travel around the continent (again) in a better camper than a VW.
    12. Do the “island hopper” between Honolulu and Guam
    13. Stay in an overwater bungalow in Asia somewhere
    14. Go on an African wildlife safari
    15. Visit all the National Parks in the system (half way there)
Us on the 116th Floor of the Ritz Carlton, Hong Kong
Us on the 116th Floor of the Ritz Carlton, Hong Kong
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Hiking The Albion Basin to Cecret Lake, and Sharing Our Secrets

by CrazyUsFamily / Travel
Albion Basin hike to Cecret Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah
Albion Basin hike to Cecret Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah

 

Yesterday afternoon Dave and drove up Little Cottonwood Canyon. For a little background, Little Cottonwood Canyon sits on the edge of the Wasatch Front and is located just down the road from Big Cottonwood Canyon. And to this day, each time I drive into one of these otherworldly places, I ask,

“Is this Big or is this Little?”

And truth be told, I also forget that Snowbird Ski Resort sits next to Alta Ski Resort (both in Little Cottonwood Canyon), and that Solitude Ski Resort lies just down the hill from Brighton (in Big Cottonwood Canyon). In fairness, Solitude and Snowbird both begin with an “s” – confusing to say the least. Because Big Cottonwood Canyon has a summer-mountain pass that takes you into Park City *the Guardsman Pass) and because the mountain biking is extraordinary, we often find ourselves in Big rather than Little Cottonwood Canyon.

Albion Basin hike to Cecret Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah
Albion Basin hike to Cecret Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah

Skateboarding with their friends won over hiking with their parents, so the boys stayed behind. Consequently, as Dave and I drove up the canyon, I was equally sad (that the boys were not there) and glad (I was able to have some alone time with Dave).  Dave and I drove up higher and higher until we reached this dude wearing a jacket (mind you it was like a million degrees down in the valley) standing outside one of those little national-park-styled booths that look like tiny cabins.  We stopped. I unrolled the window.

“Do you need a map?” The dude asked.

“Sure” We both said.

“I am just here to help. Please park only in designated areas, and no dogs are allowed in the watershed.”  He responded.  (I was a little surprised because I was certain he was going to charge us a fee. He didn’t.)

Albion Basin hike to Ceret Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon
Albion Basin hike to Ceret Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon

I grabbed the map and handed it to Dave. At that I shut the window, we all waved (yes, Dave, the dude and I), and we drove on. Just feet past the tiny booth the pavement ended. Now on a dirt road we kept driving up, up, up. After a really long and slightly winding switchback (or two), we passed the first parking lot. It was on the right. I slowed, and then Dave said,

“Keep driving to the next one.”

Here is the deal: Little Cottonwood Canyon is stunning. With its high altitude pines, vast array of wildflowers, and mountainous granite backdrop, it feels Alps-y, and specifically reminds me of the hills around Chamonix, France.  I forgot how much I love this area.  We arrived at the top parking lot. I put on my warm shirt (that dude was smart wearing a jacket), switched my blister-covered feet into a pair of tennis shoes, and Dave took  (in his words), “a giant swig” of water.

“Do you want some?” He asked.

Pointing at the large and now empty cup in the cup-holder, I said,  “No, I finished my drink, but thanks!”

All doors were locked, my laces were tied, and we were on our way. As we walked, I looked at the billions of wild flowers scattered around us and said, “I should have brought my real camera.” Thank God for cellphones, because its camera would suffice, and because I had no children to force into scenic poses, so would Dave.

Albion Basin hike to Cecret Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah
Albion Basin hike to Cecret Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah
Albion Basin hike to Cecret Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah
Albion Basin hike to Cecret Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah

The hike to Cecret Lake (yes, that is how they spell it) is a little less than a mile and the elevation climb is a little less than 500 feet. In that short distance, we hiked along a lovely campground, sandstone cliffs, rocks of all shapes and sizes, by a tiny granite-filled canyon, and all the varieties of mountain flora and one fauna (I saw a squirrel) you can imagine.  Because the parking lot and the hike were not crowded I assumed (fantasized) that Dave and I had discovered our very own secret paradise.  Of course my assumption is incorrect. Like I mentioned, the Albion Basin is a short drive up the canyon (about twenty-five minutes). It is one of the most popular hiking places in the Salt Lake Valley and with good reason.

Albion Basin hike to Cecret Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah
Albion Basin hike to Cecret Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah

As we walked, we talked. In fact, I have found that walking together is the best way we talk together. With Kyle and Eli somewhere on their skateboards, Dave and I also did not have to speak in code. And somehow the news of the day, like stupid Bill Cosby, steered our conversation to the subject of dating. And as we hiked our talk drifted from our own silly teenage dating experiences to what is the best dating advice and guidance for Kyle and Eli. We were sitting on a big piece of rock along Cecret Lake, looking at the mountains and the dark clouds in the distance when the first flash of insight came.

“I am glad I was afraid of dating boys when I was a teenager.”
I said. Dave listened as I mentioned how my fear of boys made their advances very confusing.
“I was a slow mover too.” Dave responded, and I wondered if the cute little squirrel foraging next us was getting any of it.
I continued, “Dave, It was so weird. I really liked boys. I talked to them. I flirted with them. When they wanted to kiss me I completely freaked out. I was terrified.”
“I totally get it.” Dave said while mentioning something about the vixen who made it a little easier for him.
“I just did not want to move as fast as they did.” I said and continued, “I was giving those boys very mixed messages and I did not even see it.” I said.

CrazyUS.7.08.15.6

We got up, tried to walk along the lake, but the path ended. I stood there and looked. Cecret Lake is so beyond the beyond. We selfied (of course) and then we decided I must practice (perfect) my “Paris Hilton” picture-taking pose.  Dave tells me he read somewhere that one of the things that helped propel Paris Hilton into the limelight was her ability to consistently take a flawless picture.

“She learned her angles and she practiced.” He said and we both laughed.

Albion Basin hike to Cecret Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah (My Paris-Hilton Pose)
Albion Basin hike to Cecret Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah (My Paris-Hilton Pose)

I ran closer to the lake, asked him to snap a few shots while I twisted my body and stuck my boobs out. Yes, I have worked on it, or better, I have work to do [wink wink]. Then we started back down and that is when Dave noticed a super cool little granite canyon beyond the bushes.  He walked over and exclaimed,

“Beth, you have to see this.”

I did. And we looked, we admired, and we started talking dating again. We know adults who will not talk about dating (or sex, for that matter) with their kids. We know other adults who are on the opposite end of the spectrum. They scare me the most.  They are extremely permissive, and so forcefully open and accepting that they can inadvertently push confused teens into corners. Because the teen assumes the adult knows best, once in the corner, the teen remains, and the consequences can be catastrophic. So yes, we realize that we adults can really screw up the message. And yes, we do not want to be those kinds of adults. Bottom line is we agreed that dating is tough, that kids move at all different speeds, and that we want to help our boys.

Albion Basin hike to Cecret Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah
Albion Basin hike to Cecret Lake in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Utah

The clouds were rolling in in a dark grey mountain beauty. We felt the drops, opted to skip the bathroom as we ran to our car. Mud splashed as we drove down, and the sky cleared the closer we came to the canyon’s mouth. With all the wisdom we gleaned while sharing our secrets at Cecret Lake we felt compelled to conclude. As Dave drove I said,

“That is it. If any adult had given me not only permission to move at my own pace, but to verbalize my boundary out loud, that would have been the one thing that would have made a difference. I was terrified of dating and I had no idea how to say so or how to say slow it down.”

We agreed that out loud boundaries are great start. We will let you know how it goes with our boys. Cross your fingers.

We left the canyon with a plan to bring the boys ASAP to Cecret Lake and (of course) to talk to them about dating. At that, we headed to our favorite Vietnamese restaurant and checked in with the boys. Yes, they are still skateboarding.

CrazyUs.7.08.15.11

 

SIDEBAR

  • There are many hikes in both Big and Little Cottonwood Canyon
  • Big Cottonwood Canyon is a mountain biker’s paradise
  • We at at Oh Mai Vietnamese Restaurant. As Dave said, “I could eat here everyday.”
  • I could tell you Kyle and Eli’s new and favorite secret skateboarding place, instead (because I know better) I will tell you their favorite longboard shop.
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Marriage Equality, Amazing Grace and our Seventeen Year Union!

by CrazyUsFamily / My Three Cents
Dave and I on our 17th wedding anniversary, June 27, 2015. Salt Lake City, Utah
Dave and I on our 17th wedding anniversary, June 27, 2015. Salt Lake City, Utah

I started writing this post on Saturday. I keep pausing, re-writing, talking with Dave, and then asking him to read.  Rightly so, he suggested I develop my thoughts. Now here I am starting over.

Regarding my seventeen year union, like I have done in the past, I want to publicly celebrate. I love Dave and our life together makes me feel super blessed. This year, instead of feeling forgotten, or feeling extra grateful, I simply feel lucky.  Because I do, I feel the need to infuse perspective into my marriage soliloquy. Here is why. Recent events, like the shootings in South Carolina, and marriage equality, are issues I have not had to deal with. Nevertheless, they are issues that are critically affecting our world.  At the very least, I want to acknowledge them.

And because these events fell on (near) my seventeen year anniversary, I most definitely cannot ignore them. To me, marriage equality is not black and white. No issue ever is. And being black or white is not even black or white. We could argue religious values. We could talk racial divide. Or we can chose to see what is in front of us. We are all humans! I think being human is big part of the grey. None of us are perfect. All of us have different experience, and different ways of seeing the world.  I hope it is ok that I share mine.

Here it is. I am middle class and white. I have the legal right to marry. And the only thing I get when I am walking down the street is a friendly nod or a pleasant, “hello.”  I know my life is blessed. Marriage Equality is not something I have had to consider. Sitting in the front of the bus is something I never had to fight to do. As a result, not having the right to legally marry, or fearing being gunned down because of the color of my skin are not my stories.

Eli, Marianne's daughter, Makeda, Kyle, Minnetonka, Minnesota
Eli, Makeda, Kyle, Minnetonka, Minnesota
Marianne and the gang, Minnetonka, Minnesota
Marianne and the gang, Minnetonka, Minnesota

Marianne and I have know each other since I was five. As far as lifetime BFF’s go, she is it. Marianne is nice, Midwestern, of Swedish extraction. Her ex-husband is from Cameroon. She is a single mother, and is also raising an African American girl who she rescued from a tough North Minneapolis neighborhood. Guess what? Marianne’s lovely bi-racial children are treated differently. Not always, but the color of their skin is not easy for some to ignore. One may argue, “well, her son did bad things.” And then I would have to add, “he was also profiled.” It all becomes grey.

CrazyUs
CrazyUs

On a lighter note, and regarding marriage equality, as our friend hilariously quipped:.

“Wow. You guys almost made it to your 17th anniversary before the whole institution was blasted into meaningless ruins. One day away! You guys were so close! Oh well. Otherwise I would have to wish you happy anniversary.” (Hey and after you see me in my wedding dress, you may agree that a do-over is in order, he he.)

…Saturday as we walked to a movie, I told Dave about my post.

“I am not sure what to say. I want celebrate you –us, but I also feel like I need to address the super ebullient black, white, and rainbow colored elephant in the room.” I said. Ok. I did not actually use the phrase, “black, white, and rainbow colored elephant,” I only wish I had been that spot on, [wink wink].

“Marriage Equality is not an issue we’ve had to face. At most, it’s just a marker that we can use to define ourselves in the culture war.” Dave said.

“You are right.” I agreed and quickly continued, “And I am white and economically privileged.”

“Yep.” He replied.

“I feel like I have to say something, yet I do not know how to talk about race, or marriage equality without looking like I am stealing someone else’s thunder, or sounding like a complete idiot. I know I will offend someone.  And offending people is not what I want to do. I am overwhelmed. I want to celebrate our marriage without stepping on toes. Ay-yi-yi! ” I responded.

“Write what you feel.” Dave wisely implored.

So that is what I have been trying to do.

Dave is correct. I will offend someone out there whether I am writing about travel, about my boys, my mom, my friend with biracial kids, my dysfunctional family, crazy mommy bloggers, the escaped New York prisoners, or Greece.

[insert deep breath here] This is what I feel.

I like being married. I really like being married to Dave.  Dave is cool. He likes me, even crazy PMS-me, and he always laughs at my jokes – always. (Note from Dave: for the record, I do not like PMS Beth) [Note from Beth — what? PMS Beth is so passionate, (wink wink).] Marriage is awesome! It is not easy. I am elated we have lasted this long. I am really happy that Dave remembered our anniversary. In fact, my heart soared.

This is how it went down.

Saturday morning Dave opened the refrigerator and handed me a little cardboard box.

“I got these for you!” he said.

Inside were two, heavily frosted (I love a lot of frosting), yummy cupcakes. He knows I love City Cakes’ Gluten Free baked goods. He followed with,

“I tried to buy you a big cake! They were out.” He continued.

Seriously, does it get any better than this?  Nope.

Love for Dave is what I feel. And high fives to number seventeen!

Then last Thursday we were walking Kyle to Driver’s Ed, (I know. Right? Kyle is taking Driver’s Ed. How did that happen?). Well, as Dave and I walked Kyle to Driver’s Ed, Dave said,

“Hey, I know what we should do for our anniversary this weekend.”

“What?” I asked.

“Let’s go to Sundance and hike to Stewart Falls.” He replied.

“That sounds perfect.” I responded.

We really wanted to go to Sundance. Sundance is where we celebrated our super-secret-meltdown honeymoon. As we stood in the Owl Bar all of those years ago, I can still see Dave standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Robert Redford.

“Dude, do you have any idea who you were standing next to?” I said as we walked out the Owl Bar door.

“No. Who?” Dave asked.

When he asked, I honestly thought he was kidding.

“Dude! Really?” I asked, and then delightfully exploded, “Robert Redford! How awesome is that?”

June 27, 2015 was hot and our hopes of rekindling our crazy super-secret-Robert-Redford-shoulder-brushing-honeymoon were dwindling.  It is true. Hiking in one hundred degree heat felt more troublesome than romantic. Instead, we opted to see a movie, the very same movie we were walking to when our marriage-equality conversation began.

Palos Verde, California
Palos Verde, California

Here is what Dave and I concluded: Because we are straight, because we are white, discrimination is not something we have felt (except maybe being picked on, growing up Mormon). We do not understand what it is like to love someone, to want to share a life with them, and then not be able legally to make that happen. We do not understand what it is like to be confined to a certain space because of the color of our skin. We are married, and have been married for a long time. Additionally, we both have people close to us that firmly believe that marriage should be restricted to man/woman.  We know people who celebrate the confederate flag, and who think black people are dangerous. We also have gay friends who have fought hard for this legal right to marry. My best friend has fought hard for people to look past skin color.  We are not sure how to break through the layers.

For us, both racial prejudice and marriage equality move beyond a legal right, and become an issue of how we humans are treating each other.  Honestly, Dave and I both want equality for everyone: men, women, conservative, liberal, gay, straight, black white, short, tall, popular, dorky, rich, poor, and even Whovians.

And that is why I include EVERYONE here. I thought we were “one nation.”  Meaning, I thought we, as a people, could find a way to live together.  It is our Amazing Grace. The reality of my life is not lost on me. I know I am a woman, and realize women deal with our own issues of equality. That being said. I am grateful. I wanted to get married, and I could — legally. And I did not have to sit on the back of the bus.

We all can keep fighting to make it better!

 

Dave and I. The Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, England
Dave and I. The Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, England

Happy Anniversary, David Adams! I love being married to you!

 

 

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Without My Family, I Would Die In A Fire.

by CrazyUsFamily / Travel
Firetruck
Firetruck

I learned this about myself very early Sunday morning. It was 3:50 AM and I heard the blood curdling BEEP, BEEP, BEEP sound only a fire alarm that needs you to WAKE UP NOW would make. Lights were flashing on and off. The room was spinning. Of course I wondered if I was dreaming, and when I was sure I wasn’t, I was convinced the sprinklers would go off. They didn’t. I rolled over and swatted at Dave.

“Dave. Dave. I think it is a fire alarm. We should get up. Dave. Do you hear that?”

At that he popped out of bed. I staggered. Sure, I spent the previous evening crying my eyes out. And yes, I went to bed at 2:00 AM, which was less than two hours before the fire alarm screamed us awake, yet I imagine fires and hopefully their alarms do not wait until it is convenient.

The alarm was not stopping, and I remembered I needed to get the boys. I went to their room, woke them up, and then asked Dave,

“Do I have time to use the bathroom (true story)?”

Apparently while I was using the bathroom, trying to find my bra, a clean shirt, at least run the toothbrush over my teeth, and trying to pull my long pajama top over my head, Dave was trying to see if our building was on fire. It wasn’t — at least not the section we live in.

By now the boys and Dave stood watching while I tried to configure. I was consumed (distracted). I just knew I needed comfortable shoes, my cellphone and my purse. Now I know that as I am trying to snap my bra, not only am I going to take myself down, I will take my family down with me.

We did not smell smoke. I know the boys were asking me questions. I know my hair was disheveled and I was wearing my pajama bottoms, a clean shirt and a bra. We needed to leave like five minutes ago. We made sure we had our keys, we looked around, the alarm lights were still flashing on and off, and we left.

The boys asked one more time,

“Mom, are you sure you have your keys?”

As we stepped out our respective doors, I remember seeing my very tattooed neighbor and his cute little dog. I also noticed that his hair was perfectly combed. He pleasantly greeted us,

“Good morning.”

Dave tells me a different story. And as Dave makes a yanking-a-little-dog-on-a-leash motion he says,

“our neighbor was trying to pull his very small and very scared dog down the hallway.”
“Why didn’t he just pick the dog up and carry him?” I asked.
Dave laughed, “That is what I thought!”

We were now standing outside. We were not the first, or the last. We felt terrible for the woman in her nightgown using a walker. Then we waited.

Fire Alarm in the middle of the night
Fire Alarm in the middle of the night

I asked Dave a few times the following question:

“Dave, should I go back inside and get our laptops?”

He correctly and consistently replied,

“NO!”

As we waited I looked around. Kyle was posting a video to Instagram. Eli was checking the news. There were a lot of dogs, blankets, people lying on the sidewalk on their blankets, people leaving, people asking, people smoking, a dude with a big backpack, smartphones, and one fire truck. Eventually we asked the security guards if they knew anything,

“I walked the halls on every floor, and felt each door for heat, and didn’t see anything,” said the older of the two guards.

We made our way to the front of the building, took a picture of the fire truck, and then a lady was looking out her screened-in window from above. I looked up and said,

“You are smart. You stayed.”
She responded, “No, they told me I could come back.”

We made our way back into the building. The firemen were in the elevator and asked us to use the stairs. I heard them talking on their phones. It sounded like someone was having a heart attack or panic attack.

Back in our apartment now, Dave was asleep in nanoseconds. It took the boys and me much longer to fall asleep.


Fire Alarm

As we travel, of course we continue to live in temporary housing. Our current apartment is much like a hotel. It has security, underground parking, and elevators. Please let me tell you what I have learned. My guess is you already know these things, and they are good things to know whenever you are in an unfamiliar building, like an apartment block or hotel.

Regarding fires: when a fire alarm goes off, get your loved ones, and go! Look for the nearest and safest exits, and leave the building. Stay together. Once outside stand away from the building. If you lose your people, make sure you have a pre-planned meeting place. This is super important when you travel. Each time you check into a new place, decide where your meeting spot will be. Hey, even if there is not a fire, the meeting spot can help. Discuss your plan beforehand.

Do not ask your husband if you can go back into the building for your laptop.

On a serious note,

when I was a young girl, I badly burned my fingers while making doughnuts. In the chaos of making sure I was ok, we left the burner on. Consequently, the pan caught on fire. We did call the fire department, and were able to put the kitchen fire out. The damage was minimal. We were lucky.

Sadly, I have close friends who have not been as lucky. Because of a fire, they have lost their homes. Please learn from me. Even if it seems like a false alarm, do not risk it. Get your loved ones and go!

SIDEBAR:

Here is what the internet tells you to do in case of a fire:

“DO treat every fire alarm as an emergency. If the alarm sounds, exit the building immediately. DO remain in your room if you are unable to exit the building safely because of smoke or fire. Keep the door closed and await assistance from the fire department.”

Red Cross: What to do in case of a home fire.
And the Red Cross’s suggested Fire Escape Plan.

Tips and Escape Plan for Hotel Fires.

FIRE SAFETY TIPS:

  • If a fire occurs in your home, GET OUT, STAY OUT and CALL for help.

  • Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside sleeping areas.

  • Test smoke alarms once a month, if they’re not working, change the batteries.

  • Talk with all household members about a fire escape plan and practice the plan twice a year.

PS. As I was finishing this post, someone from our building came to check the fire alarm and strobe light. Apparently people are disconnecting them because they do not like the noise. My advice: DO NOT DO THAT!

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Hiking: Rob’s Trail, Park City, Utah

by CrazyUsFamily / Travel / Travel Tips
Rob's Trail, Park City, Utah
We LOVE our tired  boys muscling their way up and down Rob’s Trail, Park City, Utah

You may have noticed that my title begins with the word “hiking.” Indeed hiking/walking may be my very favorite aspect of travel/exploring. Today I am going to tell you about one of Park City, Utah’s very best hiking trails, a trail that leads into one of the world’s best trail systems. That being said, if you take anything away from this post, please take this: Explore. Hike. See.

Rob's Trail, Park City, Utah
Rob’s Trail, Park City, Utah
The Top of Rob's Trail, Park City, Utah
The Top of Rob’s Trail, Park City, Utah
The top of Rob's Trail, Park City, Utah
The top of Rob’s Trail, Park City, Utah

Onto my post…

Dave and I have always found a way to hike, walk and move. Daily walks to our local Sugarhouse, Utah neighborhood Starbucks and Einstein Bagels were a must. And when our son, Eli was no more than three, he brilliantly uttered the phrase:
“I am too tired for walking.”
I am certain we were on an ambitious hike like Arches National Park’s Delicate Arch (but more likely it was while walking in our local neighborhood). Our need to move has not stopped, and until recently, Eli’s I-am-too-tired-for-walking sentiment has not waned. Nevertheless, as too-tired as he was, he did (walk, that is). So when we learned that the home in Park City we were building was literally in the backyard of some of the world’s finest hiking and mountain biking trails, we knew we would find a way to urge our tired little walker on.

Sledding Rob's Trail, Park City, Utah
Sledding Rob’s Trail, Park City, Utah

Thank you, Rob’s Trail! Eli’s love of Rob’s Trail came in the winter, actually. It was Dave’s idea, and it was sort of a trick.

See, Dave is an avid mountain biker and was already familiar with the Park City trail systems. One winter day he strapped his Yak Trax on and hiked up Rob’s. An hour or so later, I looked out the window at just the right moment to see Dave walking in the gully up to the right of our yard and carrying something.

“Wait. I thought he was hiking Rob’s. Why is he coming from the other direction?”

I ran to meet him.

“Beth, I hiked up Rob’s. I had no idea if it would work or not. I had to bushwhack a little, but sure enough you can hike up and then sled back down. The gully comes right through our yard.”

The boys were eight and six when Dave shared this news.

“Boys, grab your sleds. I found the best sledding ever!”

We quickly dressed in our winter gear. We each grabbed a sled. And of course, little Eli had no idea there would be a lot of walking before there was any sledding. Yes, he was indeed too-tired-for-walking. Nevertheless, we ALL made it. We hiked up Rob’s Trail and took a left when Rob’s meets up with Colin’s trail. We hiked a few hundred yards, and when we saw the little canyon/gully,

Dave said, “this is it!”

Those first few runs were so slow, and yes, there were large sticks, crazy dips, and unsuspecting rocks in the way. We eventually packed the snow down into a sort of toboggan run, and our boys continued to be tricked into walking up Rob’s so we could sled. It did not matter. The boys loved it! Not only that, I rarely ever had a problem convincing Eli to hike Rob’s. Soon after that Dave and the boys used Rob’s as a way to ski home from the Canyons Ski resort. Seriously, it was the craziest thing to drop them off, and then hours later see them skiing into the back yard. I loved it!

Top of Rob's Trail, Park City, Utah
Top of Rob’s Trail, Park City, Utah
Rob's Trail, Park City, Utah
Rob’s Trail, Park City, Utah

Selfishly, I like to think of Rob’s as our own. We used that trail all year round.During times when Dave and I needed a walk-talk, there was nothing like Rob’s, its beautiful Aspen forest, and stunning mountain views, to clear the head. In the summer we hiked it as a family. I often hiked it with my lovely hiking ladies, Eileen, Christy, and Stacie.  At other times I would drag my  bestie, Beth (no not my inner self, but I totally wish…) up the mountain so we could deconstruct our world. I love that my friend MB hiked all the way up Rob’s in flip-flops.  Probably my favorite was when I would be hiking and somewhere along the trail I would run into Dave, who was  biking. We even took our friend Markus, our owl specialist, to look for Flammulated owls there. And yes, we found Flammulated Owls higher up, right off Rob’s trail.

Rob's Trail, Park City, Utah with my most awesome friend, MB
Rob’s Trail, Park City, Utah with my most awesome friend, MB
Running into Dave on Rob's Trail, Park City, Utah -- he was on a mountain bike ride and I was hiking with my friend, MB!
Running into Dave on Rob’s Trail, Park City, Utah — he was on a mountain bike ride and I was hiking with my friend, MB!

Today I share Rob’s with you. I know I am not the first to share. Rob’s is popular, well-known, and well-loved. It is also our little piece of heaven!



Sledding Rob’s

SIDEBAR:

Rob’s Trail is a hiking/Mountain Biking trail that feeds into the Mid-Mountain Trail. “Park City’s Mid Mountain Trail bisects the Wasatch Mountains at 8,000 feet—earning it the nickname the ‘Eight Thousand Foot Trail’—and cuts across Deer Valley Resort, through Park City Mountain Resort and The Canyons Resort.” Rob’s connects with the Mid Mountain trail on the backside of the Canyons Ski Resort. You head up Park City’s Bear Hollow Drive. When you hit the horseshoe bend (about 1.1 miles up), you will see a cul-de-sac with four houses. Ours was the sage green one on the right. Just a few feet past the cul-de-sac is the parking for Rob’s. You cannot miss it!

Map of Rob’s Trail

Rob’s is also a popular snowshoeing destination. In truth, after each snowfall, the early morning snowshoers packed it down enough that neither snowshoes nor Yak Trax are necessary until you get many miles up the trail or head off trail into the untracked backcountry. We would just throw our Sorels on and get walking. Sometimes, if you veered off the center of the trail, you’d end up sinking in to your knee or thigh (it’s deep up there), but you just dust yourself off and keep walking.

And of course the Trail Runners love Rob’s for its accessibly.

As Far as sledding goes. I hear there are spots that do not intersect into people’s yards. I also have friends who sled down Rob’s on cardboard during the summer.

Collin’s Trail intersects with Rob’s Trail.

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Itineraries, or Better, Travel Mix-Tapes

by CrazyUsFamily / Travel / Travel Photgraphy / Travel Tips / Travel With Teens
A lizard in Colorado National Monument
A lizard in Colorado National Monument

My life and my plans have been much less easy to map out. I have had a difficult time finding my own way, let alone, my own road. And oddly enough I have had a much easier time planning out our journey. If I want to go to Colorado, Hawaii, or Iceland, Maps become second nature. I find great places to see, and maybe the planning is easy, because right by my side is Dave. Refining. He is always refining the way. That is what he does. I say, “Let’s take a road trip.” He suggests Colorado. I say, “I want to go on a hike or down by the river, “and he finds me Black Canyon of the Gunnison. Similarly, he tells me, “let’s stay in Grand Junction,” and I suggest the Fairfield Inn. “It has a high TripAdvisor Rating.” I tell him. And moments later, and after some online searching he suggests, “And we have two free Marriott nights.” This is our dance – Itineraries, plans, and compilations — whatever you want to call them. I like Mix-Tapes.

Earlier today, the boys and I found ourselves at at our favorite Vietnamese hole in the wall, Oh Mai, eating our Pho and Banh Mi with our friend, Emily. In between bites of Pork Vermicelli with coconut milk and Beef Brisket Pho, Emily paused and said, “Hey, we are going on a road trip.”
“Where?” I asked.
“Western Colorado.”
The occasion of her visit to my neck of the woods was to buy maps for that very trip. We talked about the deep, dark crevasse of Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, about Chaco Canyon National Historical Park, which hosts “the densest and most exceptional concentration of pueblos in the American Southwest,” and how it reminds her of Mese Verde National Monument. The boys and I insisted she consider taking her family tubing down the river in Durango.

The Forum, Rome, Italy

Somewhere between comparing Colorado National Monument to the Grand Canyon and forgetting to tell her about the ginormous polygamous dwelling we saw the last time we drove east of Vernal, UT, Emily paused and said, “Beth, you know we are taking this trip because of you…” Ok. Probably not literally because of me, but when Emily and I stood in Rome’s Forum talking travel. I encourage, “Anyone can do it. And you don’t have to leave the United States.”

Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado
Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park, Colorado

As we walked from ancient Roman sculptures to an early sunset view of the Coliseum, I continued regaling her with all sorts of information about our trip through Western Colorado. “We live in Utah, and Colorado is like this brother we ignore. Because we have so much in common, we never think to visit.”
Then fast forward to our yummy Oh Mai lunch. Emily liked what I had to say. And I am over the moon that my travel love conveyed. I am really excited for their epic adventure. They are ending with Moab, our beloved pièce de résistance. Take the Delicate Arch Hike. Find the Windows and hike all over them. When you leave, notice the setting sun on the most amazing red rock cliffs, and crazy rock formations. If you get a chance, go to Corona Arch. It is located outside Arches N.P. And when you are driving to Corona Arch, look for the sign that says, “Indian Petroglyphs.” Dude, you literally pull over, and up on the cliffs are all sorts of rock writing. And if you are not completely exhausted, please hike Negro Bill Canyon. Don’t stop half through. Bring lots of water and wear a ton of sunscreen. You must make it to the waterfall. I promise. You will not regret it. Travel well Emily, Nate, and Co.!

Itineraries. I spit them out without knowing I am spitting them out. And if Dave is nearby, which he often is, he will accessorize every road I suggest you take. We are your own Mix-Tape – if that makes any sense. Let me explain. It is our rhythm. I am sure you are not crying right now like I am. I am a big baby when it comes to Dave. And it is hilarious that my own thoughts regarding our cohesive itinerary making/suggesting are currently making misty! Nevertheless, they do.

Vatican City, Rome, Italy
Vatican City, Rome, Italy

Hey and PS, Emily and Nate, I cannot hear what you call your Mix-Tape. Of course I will leave you a suggestion knowing full well that you guys can do better: “Colorado, our Parallel Universe?”

Side Bar:   Traveling through Eastern Utah and Western Colorado will give you the opportunity to visit many fee-based National Parks and Historic sites.  Consider buying a National Parks Pass. The 2015 price for a National Park’s Pass is $80.

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