Dirt Travels

CHINESE DIRT CLASS

2011-07-21T12:58:00.001-07:00

Before class starts

Mission accomplished! I taught my class on dirt today, and thanks to a few great helpers, both American and Chinese, it went off without a hitch. What fun it was to share my passion and love of collecting dirt with 20 enthusiastic students from China. They ranged in age from 11 to 18.

I had a great time, and I hope that they may have been inspired to start collections of their own. Be it dirt, stamps, leaves (one young lady already has several in her collection) or anything else, I hope they enjoy it as much as I do. I was again reminded how dirt really is the GREAT CONNECTOR OF US ALL!

I think the kids enjoyed eating the dirt the most! Here is the recipe for that:

1 Clear plastic cup

1 Hunt's snack pack pudding cup

20 Chocolate chips

3 T Crushed Oreo cookies

Gummy sour worms for texture and taste.

Bickey, wearing YELLOW in the above photos, is a young man with already 9 years of English classes under his belt, was very helpful. He not only wrote all of the words I used in my lesson into Chinese symbols, he volunteered to eat the dirt and actually believed the dessert to be real dirt. His reaction to taking a bite and calling it "OREO" made all of us smile!

*side note I called him yellow during class because I couldn't pronounce his Chinese given name.

Here are a few pictures from the events of the day. What a great time I had, and I am pretty sure I will be getting more samples from China shortly after the students return home. PeopleLink has been a great group of people to work with. A special THANK YOU to Megan who is in my ward for asking me to participate!

Dirt Collecting and SHARING via CHINA

2011-07-20T13:00:00.000-07:00

It's that time again! Time to catch up on blogging about more collections of dirt that I have received this past few months. It's hard to believe I started this blog nearly 3 years ago.

The dirt is never ending and just when I think I am caught up, I find more dirt I didn't even remember I had.

Case in point:

I was recently asked to participate in a program here in Roseville, where students from China come to visit, live with host families, and spend two weeks engaging themselves in American culture.

What better way to do that than introducing them to DIRT COLLECTING?

Granted, it may not be every American's passion, but it certainly is mine. To be able to share that experience with others, no matter what their age, is always exciting for me. So I began to go through all of the samples that have been given to me over the years from China.

I had two for sure that came to the top of my head, The Great Wall of China and Xian China. However, I had two additional vials from Hainan and Shangzhou. All four of which I plan to bring to my class slated for tomorrow. I am so looking forward to talking about my love of collecting dirt, and also asking the students if they are familiar with these areas.

I have asked each of the host families to give their student a sample of dirt from their own yards so that the students can have a little something to take home with them to remember their experience here on American Soil. Of course, I have also given each of them a vial just like I have placed mine in with the label: Roseville, CA, USA.

Thank you to Specialty Bottle Company for sending me those so promptly.

I will keep you posted on how the entire class goes. I have brushed up on my Chinese Culture and language (both words) and feel very prepared to encourage these young minds to dig the dirt, love the land, save the soil, and all that good stuff!

In the meantime, I am back at my preparations for the big day. I am currently preparing edible dirt cups. I will definitely let you know how THAT turns out.

Folsom Lake Fun

2011-07-13T19:03:00.000-07:00

Holli, Peyton and I cooling off after a great morning of fishing. TIME to find the DIRT!

Sand from the shore line of Folsom Lake. Near Granite Bay. The 5 Percent area to be exact.

Folsom Lake is near and dear to my heart for several reasons. I grew up just down the road from the lake in my hometown of LOOMIS. It is beautiful and I have seen it on so many different levels. I've been there fishing quite a bit in the last year and on this trip, took my daughter Holli, Joe's niece Peyton, and of course, Joe!

We started by fishing, but found a great little private cove that we decided to cool off in. This is where I chose to get a sample of dirt, which actually is sand from right under the lake. Next to it, actually ALL THROUGH IT... is fool's gold. I bottled some of it up as well. The lake is wonderful and I look forward to going back again very soon.

Bullard's Bar, CA

2011-06-15T07:55:00.000-07:00

Centrally located in the Sierra Nevada foothills, Bullard's Bar is the ultimate in outdoor recreation. If you enjoy house boating, fishing, camping, water sports, hiking, mountain biking, or all of the above, Bullard's Bar is the place for you.

D. All of the above?

I enjoy all of these things, however, this vacation was not meant for me. I did, however reap the benefits of these two and their adventure because I got some dirt! It is a bright red in color and when their fishing expedition was complete and they washed the boat off, the bright red color was very evident on the side of the boat.

It was a great trip as far as the fishing goes, it was even greater for me in that I got this great dirt sample!

Fire Station # 22

2011-06-13T22:02:00.000-07:00

While working another call back, Joe remembered to get me some dirt from the station. It got me to thinking that each time we make a collection of soil from somewhere, we always leave a small "divot" where the dirt once was.

This particular station had amazing landscaping and so we wanted to be extra careful and not just leave a gaping hole when we got the sample. Little did I know that the Captain that works at this station also loves getting his hands in the dirt and not only grooms all of the lawns, but also keeps the ivy that is growing neat and tidy.

He was already planning to "fill" in the area that we got the dirt from with these ice plants. They have a beautiful color to them when they bloom! They will look wonderful I have no doubt...especially when surrounded by all of that beautiful DIRT!

Firehouse 103

2011-05-31T10:12:00.000-07:00

Here I go again! Trying to make another attempt at getting caught up on all of the blogging that I need to do. Sometimes it feels like the more I try to get it done, the nicer the weather becomes and the less time I find myself blogging about dirt and the MORE time I am out working in it! From my perspective, it is a bountiful payoff!

So, Joseph did another call back at this station. He did 15 calls in a 20 hour period, and sometime in between he even found some time to collect dirt from the firehouse for me. It is another station located in the Sac Metro Fire District. It was certainly busy!

I love that these firehouses are usually located smack dab in the middle of a residential area. (DUH!) Makes sense really... but it also makes it easier for him to help me collect my dirt. Remember, it was almost a year ago that I set a goal to get dirt from every firehouse in the district. One more down and MANY MANY to go! ***

Roseville... Ice Capital of the WORLD?

2011-03-13T13:34:00.000-07:00

On a recent adventure through one of Roseville's parks, I came across this NOTICE located above a footbridge that I was visiting while waiting to have my taxes done. (The things I do to pass the time, I know)...

HOW STRANGE! Or at least it was until I saw the Roseville Historical Land Marker #2 on the other side of the bridge that explained why the sign hung there.

Turns out, Roseville CA located just north of Sacramento was once the Ice (as in FAKE) capital of the world.

WHO KNEW? I couldn't pass up the opportunity to snag some dirt. And thanks to my bff we scooped some up and marveled at how many times the places we go to on a regular basis turn out to have so much historical meaning.

It was a great day and I got a great sample of dirt. Who knows who may have walked...or skated...across these grains of dirt as well as this footbridge?

The sign reads as follows:

Across the footbridge situated high above the Southern Pacific Railroad yards, passed untold thousands of Pacific Fruit Express employees at the world's largest artificial ice plant. In disuse since 1974when the giant plant was razed this local landmark was moved in 1986 for use as a public footbridge across dry creek and as a memorial to those days when Roseville was the ice capital of the world.

Dedicated in March of 1987 as the Reuben E. Nelson footbridge in honor of Reuben Nelson, long time superintendent to the PFE and civic leader.

Alcatraz

2011-03-10T07:17:00.000-08:00

WELCOME TO THE ROCK

Ha ha ha! I love when Sean Connery said that in the movie. Nick Cage learned a few things about himself when he portrayed an FBI agent and "side kick" of sorts to Sean in the movie entitled The Rock back in 1996.

And although I have never been to Alcatraz personally, I do have some great daughters that have visited there. (Thank you to the Man upstairs that it was only a day visit)

Thank you to Madi, Brady and Holli for snagging me this sample of dirt from the island of Alcatraz on a recent visit there. I have many dirt samples that are in these cute little magnetic fridge decorations. I always love getting them!

Alcatraz, also known as "The Rock" is the most infamous prison in United States history. It housed some of the most notorious criminals we have ever seen in our nations history. This prison was known amongst criminals as the worst place to go. Alcatraz is secluded on an Island off the coast of San Fransisco, with no one around for miles, these prisoners sat in this dark, foggy and dampened prison counting the days, trying not to go completely crazy. Alcatraz was opened back in 1934 and it closed it's doors in 1963. Alcatraz was considered one of the harshest prisons around. The prisoners had minimal privileges, if any, and some prisoners where even driven to complete insanity because of the conditions that were Alcatraz. This makes Alcatraz tours in San Fransisco, one of the most popular things for most tourists and even locals here to do.

Thank you again to my sweet family for thinking of me on their trip to San Francisco.

Long time coming...

2011-02-02T08:59:00.000-08:00

So much has been going on since my last post. I am finally finding that I have time to sit down and update my blog. SHAME on me for neglecting dirt that way.

After my bout with the PCP, I decided that I was going to limit my association with dirt samples that have been sent to me from around the world. Sad but true. That having been said, my family still keeps me going on the different places that they visit and are sweet enough to send me dirt from their various journeys.

My oldest daughter Meagen is now using her blogging skills and is a contributor on this site: www.thecareereffect.com.

I guess that partly inspired me to start updating this blog again. That, and the fact that I have an incredible amount of time on my hands and....

I have been sitting on numerous samples that were received from others and collected by myself over the past several months but have had nowhere to store them othe

r than the bags in which they were received.

So today, I ORDERED MORE BOTTLES! Thank you to the Specialty Bottle Company for keeping such excellent records and reminding me of the exact size that I needed to keep them all the same!

I also have another plan to display all of my bottles but that little surprise will be posted at another time. I guess this is what one would call the "cliffhanger".

Stay tuned, the future has a lot in store, including an absolutely hilarious tale from a loved one that moved from California to Alabama and collected a TON of dirt samples (treasures) along the way. The trip includes a run in with the law for having dirt in the front seat as well as a visit with Barney Rubble's bff...Fred Flintsone!

Do you remember?

2010-09-11T06:02:00.000-07:00

This date will come every year, and my emotions up until now, have remained the same. The story doesn't change, and like so many others around the world, especially in the family of firefighters and rescue personnel, I will pause and reflect on the events of that day.... On this day....every year.

Ground Zero World Trade Center New York City September 11, 2001

I would never have imagined that I would become part of the world of firefighters and have a new way of viewing and reflecting on the events of that day, which, truly, seem like so long ago.

I seemed to have watched from afar, but now, becoming "connected" has opened my eyes like never before at the risks that these individuals make every day and the heroic acts that they perform.

I am very HUMBLED each time that I look at these 2 jars and reflect upon the events that happened on September 11, 2001. I worked for a major scrapbook magazine at the time and can recall vividly every detail of the breaking news and the emotions that I and my family felt during the next days and upcoming weeks and months. My boss was scheduled for a business trip to NYC and even weeks after the event and in the midst of confusion and chaos collected these 2 jars. My thanks to Michael Randall. Not every event in our lives will be a positive one. The beauty of saving things like dirt, or creating a scrapbook page, or writing a song, or any other creative outlet one expresses, is that it gives us a chance to cope and accept negative events and use them as constant reminders to live for today. I have an incredible appreciation for life. I open these jars and still smell the sulphur from burning buildings. I feel pain and sorrow for those that lost loved ones. I feel gratitude that the Lord spared my family from such pain.

THANK YOU. May we all continue to heal and look to the future. May we never have to have an event such as this to bring us all closer together and remember what is important in life.

Sudwerk Restaurant & Brewery

2010-08-05T08:20:00.000-07:00

This Sudwerk Restaurant and Brewery that I visited recently is located in Davis, California. My daughter, grandson and I enjoyed some time together over a great burger and brew. Okay, so we only had the burgers, but the dirt I got from there MORE than made up for the no-brewsky rule. Come on, the grandbaby is only 15 months old!

Sudwerk is a great place to catch a fast meal and some beer! Copper-colored kettles and huge circular structured seats make up the decor. The ambiance is very unruly, with noise levels touching the top of the decibel chart! The food is all German and you should give the sausages, burgers and sandwiches a try. While you're in the lobby gulping the food down, walk over to the bar for some exquisite Sudwerk beer. All the beer is brewed in accordance with "Reinheitsgebot"the German purity law. It can get boisterous in here, but that's the fun of it all!

We decided that Davis is the 1/2 way mark between the two communities we live in. I am pretty sure we will meet in the middle again soon. If (and when) we do, you can bet dirt will be on the menu for sure!

An Open Letter to Firehouse 50

2010-07-19T19:11:00.001-07:00

Sac Metro Fire Station #50

Dear Captain Kurt Hudnall,

It has come to my attention as of late that the men assigned to your station, B shift, have been up to something that I think I should make you aware of. It may come across as sort of "dirty", but you will soon see that for me, that's a good thing!

In addition to the skill sets of rescuing, training, fire fighting, bbq-ing, inspecting, shopping, cooking, more training, eating, and being "clowns" in general...they also do several good deeds outside of the work place.

Hence, the dirt picture to the right...

One of your crew members took time out of his pre-work time and found it in his heart to collect me some of the dirt outside your station. How nice! It even inspired my daughter and I to come make a personal visit to see for ourselves, just what goes on down there.

While visiting, we were greatly impressed; not only with the professionalism displayed by all the individuals there, but we sensed a genuine gratitude as well.

Could it be that chocolate pudding cake was a good choice to bring? Regardless, know that the great spirit at the 50 was appreciated, as is the job that you and your crew do everyday for the community.

The dirt, was just the icing on the cake. (no pun intended)

Much thanks from,
Brenda

Land Lover, Sand Saver, Dirt Digger

Shasta Lake

2010-07-19T18:42:00.007-07:00

Thank you Mr. Reyes for yet another great sampling of dirt.

Although he thinks the fish was the best "catch" on the trip, I beg to differ.

He and a buddy, Art Gonsalves went to a tournament recently and in their adventure remembered to "catch" some dirt for me! It is very, very dark and quite woodsy, for lack of a better word.

Information on Shasta Lake can be found at www.shastalake.org. It is a beautiful lake located at Mt. Shasta in California and has a tremendous amount to offer. The fishing is great...if you are into that sort of thing. But...

with a catch like this, who wouldn't want to go fishing? (for a little more dirt!) Thank you again!

And for the record...It's a 3lb. spotted bass. He caught it with his lucky bobber I am sure!

Nicaragua-Masaya

2010-07-08T18:54:00.003-07:00

Continuing on the cruise, the Doxey family also returned with this sample from Nicaragua. Although, it seems much more of a ROCK sample, than dirt. But don't get me wrong! It's all coming from the ground, and it's all appreciated! What an interesting addition to my collection. Nicaragua is located between 11 and 14 degrees North of the Equator. for more information on the Tourism side of Nicaragua:

Tourist Office
Nicaraguan Institute of Tourism, Managua, Nicaragua: +505 222-3333 or www.intur.gob.ni/

Many cruises now tour the Panama Canal and include Nicaragua as part of that package. Thank you again to the Doxey family!

Costa Rica

2010-07-08T18:24:00.004-07:00

Beautiful places bring beautiful sand, and in this case, beautiful dirt. The sample to the right was dropped off to my house quite some time ago, and I apologize that it didn't get posted sooner than this. But...that having been said, it has quickly become one of my favorite to look at. It's deep, rich colors fascinate me. *insert funny phrase here. (something shiny!) Thank you Lynette Doxey and family for once again, going on the trip of a lifetime and sharing part of it with me. You are always appreciated! I can only imagine what traveling through this country was like. According to Wikipedia, Costa Rica (Rich Coast) ranks first in the Happy Planet Index and is known as the "GREENEST" country in the world. Sounds like we could all use a trip there to learn how it is done the right way!

Horsen' Around in Loomis

2010-07-08T17:37:00.004-07:00

A visit to my hometown for Father's Day achieved a number of things. Father's day greetings to 2 great men, and... more dirt samples! This friendly guy donated some of his "pasture" to help in my quest for dirt. Anita and Peyton, thank you for allowing me to present to the world, Lucy,( I mean) Thunder, (or was it) Nick?; your beautiful horse! Which ever pony it was, they didn't seem a bit camera shy. This dirt was fun to collect. I was also very pleased to hear a few stories from your childhood and even more pleased that the gopher agreed to let me sneak some of his homeland! Thank you again to your entire family for great food, great conversation, and of course, GREAT DIRT!

A New Adventure / Station 24

2010-06-18T18:59:00.006-07:00

A recent move to California has created a lot of things for me. Some positive and sadly, some not so positive. But, even with all of the changes in my life, there is one thing that remains constant...my quest for dirt. I have a lot of catching up to do and fortunate for me, a lot of free time on my hands to do it, so here I go, talkin' dirt once again!

Station 24 is just one of the numerous firehouses in the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District. It is located in Sacramento and is currently home to my good friend Joe Reyes. He and two of his crew went on a call this past week and were gracious enough to invite me to tag along. The call was to assist a young girl who had a broken arm. I stayed in the engine (not to be confused with a truck) and watched these fine men just "do their job".

I have blogged about these guys before but it never gets old giving a shout out to people who risk their lives every time they go out on a call. KUDOS to them! While at the station, I of course, couldn't pass on the chance to grab some dirt and tell a few "dirty" stories. The most memorable one of course being the dirt in my collection from New York on 9/11/2001.

Here is the picture of the crew, the station, and of course, the dirt! Thank you once again, Capt. Joe, Dave and Joseph, for being so eager to help add to the dirt collection!

Another year of dirt

2009-11-07T16:22:00.003-08:00

Yes, I know, it's been an ETERNITY since I last blogged about the joys of dirt collecting. And actually, one would think that this post should refer to some sample of great stuff that I have been given, and collected since my last post. Truth be told...I am a little gun shy about handling any of my samples. After all, it was a year ago this week that I picked up a fungus from one of my dirt samples that ended up landing me in bed for numerous weeks. PCP was the official title of my illness, and at the time, I was told that I should not handle any of my samples without a mask and gloves. Fast forward to today...

The girls decided that this would be the PERFECT gift for my birthday this past week...and I couldn't agree more. I also got some emails from great friends telling me I have lots of samples coming my way. WOO HOO! So, it sounds like I have lots of blogging in my near future. Good thing too, the Utah winters are just around the corner. UGH.

Ventura Beach, California

2009-09-07T19:29:00.003-07:00

Ventura Beach, California. Now there's someplace I would like to be this week! Not because I want to be surfing or anything like that, but mainly to collect more sand like the one that Jeremy Berg's family brought me this past week.

The sand is gorgeous, but the bottle that it was delivered in (along with the bag) was just as beautiful! Carolyn Berg had the sand, along with a way cool magnet delivered by Jeremy's grandparents right here to me in Orem while they were on their way to Idaho Falls to Watch Jeremy play. He is one of our players this year and is having quite the season to say the least. He is 5-0 and doing GREAT!

Thank you to the Berg family for the sand, and for sharing your son with us for a little while. We are looking forward to this year's PLAYOFFS and more importantly, to seeing Jeremy become successful in the years to come.

Jackie Robinson Park

2009-07-27T21:52:00.000-07:00

So, here is the story about a kid that STOLE (no baseball pun intended) my heart away a few summers ago... Casey Kotofsky. He is the son of Jeff and Jyll Katofsky, the owners of the Orem OWLZ baseball team.
If ever there was a kid that you could just be OH SO PROUD of, it is him.

At a recent summer baseball game in Ogden Utah, the subject of dirt collecting came up. (ya, go figure!) When I mentioned that I collected it and needed some from WHEREEVER anyone goes, the Katofsky kid jumped at the chance and told me how he had been to quite a few places! Not only traveled and hung out, but had also played ball there too.

You see, this boy is MULTI TALENTED! He couldn't pass up a chance to add to my collection and returned this week with a sample from the Jackie Robinson Park where he pitched this past season. To read more about Jackie Robinson the ball player you can visit http://www.jackierobinson.com/.

Casey gave me this dirt last night at the field and was not a bit camera shy about this photo op too! The dirt is bright red and OBVIOUSLY from a ballpark. I look forward to getting more trading cards with his autograph...(he probably doesn't remember, but he gave me one of his 3 years ago and simply signed it... to my star)... and more importantly, more dirt from his travels. This kid is going far to say the least! Thanks Casey!

Rancho Cucamonga

2009-07-02T07:50:00.007-07:00

Recently, the baseball season started. Along with new players coming and going, I have the privilege of meeting their parents as well. Some stay longer than others, but even if it is for a brief amount of time, it is always fun to get to know them.

Enter the Wing Family.

Michael played in Orem near the end of the 2008 season. He lived with us for that short amount of time, and his impact on the team was felt immediately, but for our family it was even more. He kept in touch during the off season and when he went to the Dominican Republic for fall ball. Of course, my staying in touch with him was for purely selfish reasons...I needed dirt from the Rancho Cucamonga Quakes' home field! And my efforts paid off! His parents Damon and Laura came to visit Michael this season and with them they brought me this dirt sample.

It even had a little additional "turf". They live in Rancho and of course, are seasoned veterans at attending baseball games too! They plan to visit later in the season, and hopefully will be able to fulfill my request for dirt from Anaheim Stadium. It will complete the entire collection for fields that the boys of summer play on while on their journey from rookie ball to the BIG LEAGUES.

Thank you Wing family! You, (and the VERY cool t shirts) are very much appreciated.

Michael will no doubt leave a lasting impression on the Orem Owlz team as well as in the hearts of the Ridley Clan.

Roadtrip California style

2009-06-26T06:51:00.007-07:00

THANK YOU to my sister! These items were sent to me quite some time ago, but given the fact that I have done nothing but work, work, work...I just barely got to the P.O. Box this week!

The only information I got with these little goodies was that they were not to be taken out of order. Apparently they made sure to put all of them in baggies,and marked not only the dates, but the TIME as well that they were collected.

So this is a post about a recent road trip "California" style. The event was a celebration of sorts for my nephew Rick who was finishing up his high school career. They ventured down from the Sacramento area to Southern California, hitting several very COOL spots. They are as follows:

June 3, 2009

6:50 a.m. McDonald's in Santa Nell parking lot

8:15 a.m. Colinga Avenal Rest Area

9:47 a.m. Grapevine Jack in the Box

June 4, 2009
1:32 p.m. San Diego Zoo

June 5, 20009

8:48 a.m. Imperial Beach

5:30 p.m. La Jolla Beach

June 6, 2009

5:40 a.m. HAMPTON INN Kearny Mesa San Diego

8:13 a.m. McDonald's Newhall

10:11 a.m. Lost Hills Exit

11:53 a.m. Rest area with No Name

So, there you have it. A fun road trip that I didn't get to physically go on, but got to enjoy through the efforts of my sister and her family! Thank you for including me on your journey! Oh and thank you for not charging me extra for the very cool seashells.

Lena Blackburne Baseball Rubbing Mud

2009-06-19T16:27:00.007-07:00

THE DIRT ON BASEBALL...

Hours before a game, beneath major league baseball's newest stadium, one of the sport's oldest rituals is under way. Two Washington Nationals batboys are rubbing brown "gunk"on dozens of new balls, toweling them off once the wet dirt cakes. Only when they're done can the umpire yell, "Play ball!"

Lena Blackburne Baseball Rubbing Mud has been helping pitchers get a grip for 70 years. After a wild pitch killed a batter in 1920, a tacky substance was sought. Shoe polish and tobacco juice didn't stick. What did was the feldspar-rich clay found in a NEW JERSEY swamp by player and coach R.A. "Lena" Blackburne. In 1938 it became a big-league staple, and in 1968 it made it to the Hall of Fame.

The company reaps six harvests a year from two holes in secret spots, filters out debris, and adds a "magic" ingredient for extra grip. Aged for 6 weeks, two three-pound vats are sent to each team-a season's worth of joy from Mudville. -Jeremy Berlin National Geographic

Well, there you have it! Last year when this article came out, I immediately headed down to the Owlz office to see where I could get my hand son this "dirty" little mud wonder. Enter Brett Crane, official "I'm the guy you go to" for the Orem Owlz. He had just sent back the remainder of the minor leagues' mud to the League offices. So, basically I have been waiting for A YEAR to finally get to see, and smell the official mud that will start the Minor League baseball season.

I swang by the office this afternoon to pick up our season tickets when there it was, the little bucket from heaven...uh...New Jersey, or was it Mississippi...uh, Delaware? Oh okay, the dirt is from New Jersey! This season will be one to be remembered, and if I play my cards right, I hope to have my hands right in the middle of the whole muddy tradition. (If you know what I mean)..Come on Brett, hook a sister up! Thank you to the entire Orem Owlz staff and especially that great "go to guy" for giving me a little mud, and sharing in the BIG adventure in the Pioneer League.

for more info click here : www.baseballrubbingmud.com and www.owlzbaseball.com

Pineapple HEAVEN!

2009-06-18T19:27:00.004-07:00

I am not for sure what it is these days, but...

ALL the friends of our family seem to be going to HAWAII.

Take the Dabling family:

Bart

Janice

Sienna

Tyler

Cody

Chelsea

Gentry

Gee, I hope I didn't forget anyone. Bart and Janice became our friends when we first got started working at none other than The Brass Hearth (now Ruby River) in Provo some 25 years ago. They had kids the same age as us so we traded baby sitting services among other things. They took their family to Hawaii this past couple of weeks as well as caught a couple Rancho Cucamonga Quakes games. (Thank you for the pic of Andrew Gentry!) In return for really doing absolutely nothing...They brought me back a PINEAPPLE. YUM! Oh, did I mention they also brought me back some D.I.R.T. / beach S.A.N.D. Yup, and it is BEAutiful! In addition to the pineapple and the sand, I also got a really cool bracelet. WOW! Glad I got remembered on their journey. Thank you Dablings! Hey, isn't time for a road trip to Idaho Falls?

Sand from the following locations:

Kamaole Beach, Maui Lahaina Beach, Maui Waikiki Beach, Oahu

New Happy Place?

2009-06-16T05:10:00.006-07:00

So quite some time ago, I did a google search of the word dirt. YES, YES, I know, there is a lot of smut out there when you type in the word dirt, dirty, dirtier, dirtiest, blah, blah, blah.

But, this time, when I did the same thing, I found a new happy place to visit! The site is called The State Dirt Company. The cool thing is, should I get closer to the end of my journey here on this earth...(no pun intended) I can now PURCHASE some dirt from lots of different states. Now don't get me wrong, I am in NO HURRY to check out as of yet, however, when my time comes to be in the ground instead of collecting it, I want to know I have dirt from EVERY ONE of the states in the

U S A.

Check them out here: http://www.statedirt.com/ I even have some dirt in one of those little jars they sell the dirt in! Go figure! :) P.S. Not that my birthday is coming up anytime soonly, but YOU did ask what to get me right? Shopping. Simplified. Send Soonly!

Don Pedro Lake, California

2009-06-14T19:01:00.009-07:00

Let me just start by saying this...
I found it very funny that the delivery of this soil sample in the mail came to me in UTAH, from CALIFORNIA, in a bag from a guy who is JAPANESE(Yamamoto), with a label that says Made in MEXICO and yes,with a return address of ARIZONA.
Thank you my friend, for sending it my way. There is no confusion as to who YOU are!

JUST GOES TO SHOW YA...DIRT TRAVELS!

Don Pedro Lake is located just west of Sonora in Central California. It was collected from the shore at Flemming Meadows. Another fishing tourney was the purpose in the trip, unfortunately, my dirt sample was the only TROPHY received that day! Better LUCK next time? Thank you for the dirt, and for once again including me on your adventure!

Athens, Greece

2009-06-14T18:49:00.005-07:00

Thank you to Janet Grandy! She lives down the street from me and has always been an absolutely wonderful example to my family. She is always the first person to bring in a meal, or write a get well note, or share the wonderful items out of her garden. I am never surprised to hear my family talk about a "random" act of kindness shown by this amazing woman. She recently returned from Athens, Greece and was so kind as to bring me some dirt from her travels. The story she shared with me about the dirt is as follows:

Hi Brenda,

The story about the dirt I scooped up in Athens, Greece goes like this. You know how much I love gardens, so while in Athens, I went to the National Gardens which used to be the Royal Gardens that belonged to the Royal Family. They no longer have a Royal Family however. I scooped it up with a spoon under a Wisteria Bowery. When I came through customs in New York, a cool African American Customs Agent wanted to know how much soil I had and why. I told him around a cup and that I collected it for a friend that collects soil from around the world. I explained to him that the soil was not going to be used outside, but that it was going to be put into a glass jar. His response was, "Well, I don't think that a cup is going to hurt anyone in Utah, so go ahead".

Love the story Janet, and LOVE the soil. Athens Greece is on my list of places to visit someday when I become rich and famous. Right now, I feel pretty RICH for having friends like Janet to share in her journeys with me.

Black Beach Hawaii and Meagen's Beach

2009-06-10T16:41:00.005-07:00

A L O H A H A W A I I

Even Steven has been a friend of the family for many years and has come to be one of my favorite people that travel. Mainly because he always brings me back some soil from wherever he goes. His latest trip was no exception.

Black Beach Hawaii. WOW! Was this dirt B L A C K. Now I can honestly say that I have seen some different colored dirt and sand in my time, but this truly was the darkest black sand I have ever seen. He said it was that dark because it was still wet from being in the bottle, however, even after it had dried out the darkness was unchanged. The other dirt he brought me was in contrast, quite light in color. Put them together and they looked like salt and pepper.

The second bottle of sand was from a location known as Meagen's Beach. OBVIOUSLY I am going to L.O.V.E. this place because that's my oldest daughter's name. Both of these locations were vacation spots for Steven. He has traveled more and more over the last few years and I look forward to him bringing me a little part of his journey. THANK YOU and on a side note...Steven, see you at the park!

The strangest thing...

2009-05-20T12:51:00.006-07:00

The strangest thing happens when I request dirt from folks all around the world...THEY SEND IT! One of my favorite "dirty" stories is about a gentlemen whose wife I was associated with when I worked in the scrapbooking industry. She owned 2 stores in Salt Lake City and she was a very good owner, manager, and scrapbooker. She and I were discussing the value of scrapbooking when she mentioned that she did a lot of her layouts based on the travels of her husband. He was a businessman and traveled not only in the US, but throughout the world. I told her of my collection of dirt, and from then on out, I was always receiving dirt samples from wherever it was he traveled. He, had a collection of sorts himself. He was a collector of Samurai swords... and I thought dirt collecting was unique!

Fast forward to his trip to Singapore....He is checking his personal belongings at the gate preparing for a flight home from the capitol. They find a small plastic bag containing my dirt sample, some traditional items, his Samurai sword he had collected while there, etc. As the security guy is checking through all of his bags, he asks, "what is this strange substance in the plastic bag sir?". Of course, the answer is dirt. IMMEDIATELY, the red flags go up and the Security guard begins to become more scrutinizing of EVERY item he has with him. He makes it very clear that dirt is not aloud to be removed from the country and that he needs to dispose of it immediately. The consequences if he didn't weren't discussed, however, he told me that Turkish prisons were mild in comparison to what happens to felons in Singapore.

The STRANGEST THING IS...

NOTHING was said about the Samurai SWORD! Unreal. So, he takes the baggy, and proceeds to the nearest restroom where he SAYS he is going to dispose of the dirt. He goes in to the restroom, takes off his shoe, removes his sock, pours the dirt in the sock, replaces it on his foot, and then the shoe, and returns to the line where they promptly check himself, his Samurai sword, and MY SINGAPORE dirt in for his flight. The sock-o-dirt and other strange ways dirt has been saved for me is pictured in this post.

For me, I don't care how it is delivered...In a water bottle, in a zip-lock baggie, in a coffee can, or even in a sock...I just APPRECIATE that it is saved and given to me! So, collect it, send it, and I will enjoy it! (Just don't risk a prison term to do it!)

CCC Martinez, California

2009-05-02T17:21:00.003-07:00

Here it is...Not only did I get some WAY cool dirt from Martinez, California located in Contra Costa County, but I got something even cooler! A new little grandson named Kelvin Kyler Love. This is the pic of the baby, and the dirt...and yes, every time there is a new place that baby Kelvin will visit, the tradition will continue. New baby. New dirt.

The dirt is from the hospital that Kelvin was born in. Kelvin was welcomed into the world on Monday, April 27th at 4:17 in the morning. Read more about the whole story at www.ridleyclan.blogspot.com. P.S. The little brown spot on the Itty Bitty Diaper...isn't what you think...It's the DIRT! Welcome to the world Kelvin!

White Sands, New Mexico

2009-04-16T17:00:00.000-07:00

This is so beautiful! Thanks go out to Patty Palmer for her efforts in getting this to me so quickly after our talk in Relief Society about collecting dirt and how to use it in our daily lives.....(haha) !No, not really, but we did discuss my LOVE of collecting dirt in a lesson I gave in Relief Society some time ago. This is from White Sands , New Mexico. This sand sample was obtained, (Patty wanted me to point out) COMPLETELY legal.

Apparently, you are not aloud to remove the sand, but nothing has ever been mentioned in regards to the removal of said sand out of your shorts, socks, shoes, or anywhere else that may have accidentally gotten stuck. Thank you to Patty, who so bravely and boldly went where no other sister dared to go before! (Into the shorts to find some sand)

More info on White Sands, New Mexico, and the COOL place it really is can be found here.

Box 158...Hey that's ME!

2009-04-05T18:35:00.008-07:00

This is the box I got in the mail on Friday! Ain't it a beautiful thing...Dirt, just for me. This is what it looked like on the outside, and in and of itself, is a wonderful thing....But WAIT! There's more...

the stuff below is what came on the inside of the box... 5 samples from all over the place!

The letter along with it reads as follows:

The letter is from my sister Sue Harrington. The dirt traveled from Tonopah, Nevada to Indian Springs, to Tehachapi, to Baker and then finally to Boron. Oh, and least us not forget to Orem, Utah and my personal favorite spot...BOX 158.

Thanks sis! For thinking about me on your journey, and for just being my sista!!

Ione, California

2009-04-05T16:40:00.006-07:00

Ione, California

During the days of the gold rush, miners knew the town of Ione by the names "Bedbugs" and "Freezeout". Unlike other communities in Amador county, Ione was not founded as a mining town, it was founded as a supply center, stage, rail stop, and agricultural hub. Today, the town is home to the Mule Creek State Prison. According to the prison's website, there are 3,782 prisoners residing in the facility, well above the design capacity of 1700, and they account for well over half of Ione's population.

This sample was taken from the home of my friend Joe Reyes. I actually know 2 people that work at the prison in Ione! Turns out Joe's wife and my sister - in - law both work there. So, dirt, is truly, the great connector of our lives, the source and destination of us all.

INDIA part 1 of 6

2009-03-29T10:00:00.003-07:00

Jeremy has returned from India once again and this time has brought back 5 different samples of soil. This is part one of a 6 part series on his delivery. This is Jeremy and I at DOBA located here in Orem. Jeremy has also started a new business called 9AISLE. There is never a dull moment in his life that is for sure. The shirt that Jeremy is holding was a souvenir he brought back from India after taking an active part in Holi Day, a tradition carried on in India each year. More pictures of his adventures can be found on his many postings on Facebook as well. This picture was taken at the DOBA facilities located right here in Orem. The picture to the right shows all 5 samples of dirt that were brought back for me. The guide that he traveled with will be a guest at the hotel in a few weeks and I intend to get a lot more information from him upon his arrival.

1. The Capitol of India

2. A location just outside for Afghanistan

3. The monument of the Fallen Soldiers

4. A location in India - Jaipur

5. Another location in India - Moida

No doubt it was just another adventure for Jer, but indeed, more samples of dirt for me! Thanks Jeremy once again for bringing me back a little piece of the world you live in.

Donner Pass

2009-03-27T16:53:00.005-07:00

Growing up in Northern California and living just at the base of the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range, I got to travel quite often to Reno. In doing so, I went over the Donner Pass. For those of you that haven't been there before, it is beautiful. The story of the Donner party and their struggles can be found at http://www.donnerpartydiary.com/ . I got the sample above about 12 years ago when traveling back from Loomis and a family visit. Several years ago I got to experience a different side of the Donner Pass. I traveled to Roseville, California via the California Zephyr operated by Amtrak. It runs from Chicago, Illinois to Emeryville, California. The ride is a L O N G one, but well worth it! On the return trip there are actually guides on the train that give an audio account of the Donners and their demise. There is also a monument at the Donner Memorial sight, indicating how deep the snow got during the storm. This dirt was gathered from the base of that monument.

Keep me posted...

2009-03-21T20:36:00.003-07:00

Few things in life get me as excited as seeing a new sample of dirt in my PO Box. At the UPS store on Center Street in Orem, the employees there always treat me so well. They get almost as excited about where my dirt is coming from as I do! In fact, they usually know BEFORE I do where it is coming from. I have had kind of a slow serious of events this last little while. But that is kind of how it is in the DIRTY business that I work in. So, keep me posted. Send me some dirt. Here's the thing...I still have over 100 plus samples that I still haven't posted about, so really, there's no RUSH! I have plenty of time, and too, the dirt isn't going anywhere.

The little white vial on my keychain, is now filled with my FAVORITE dirt ever. Any guesses?

New Melones Reservoir

2009-03-18T23:01:00.009-07:00

So in my travels, I have connected with lots of people. But in my blogging, I have had a chance to RE CONNECT with lots of people too. Joe Reyes being one of them. Joe and I attended Del Oro High School together in California. We crossed paths infrequently in those days, he was always wrestling in the gym and me? I was busy playing softball outside! But, we have recently re-connected thru blogging and working on our high school's 30th reunion.

When Joe read my blog he jumped at the chance to get on board and send me some dirt! He and his wife Kim went fishing (something Mr. Reyes gets to do a lot!) and were kind enough to get me some dirt from their adventures! This dirt is very unique in that it is very textured! It reminds me of coffee grounds. The picture doesn't really do the deep red color justice. This sample was saved from the Angles Camp area located on the map on the right ------------------->

More information on the New Melones Lake can be found at the following website:

www.gloryholessports.com/about_new_melones_lake.
I heard a rumor that I might be getting some new samples soon too! Thank you in advance, and I appreciate you thinking of me!

Popcorn and Ketchikan Alaska

2009-03-18T21:35:00.006-07:00

In 1985 my husband and I had an opportunity to move to Juneau, Alaska. As I have shared before, we worked in a restaurant their called Grandma's Farmhouse Restaurant. We caught a flight from Seattle, Washington and en route to Juneau, made on stop at a place that was self proclaimed to have the

WORLDS GREATEST POPCORN

So during the very short duration of time that we waited for several people to get on the flight that would carry them on into the capitol of Juneau, they handed out free samples of their world's greatest popcorn. Here's the thing...Our family are kind of popcorn connoisseurs. I couldn't tell you if we really enjoyed the aforementioned popcorn, but I do know this....THE DIRT from Ketchikan was beautiful! I didn't get this sample until about 2 years after we left Alaska. AND it was actually given to me by a former employee of the restaurant that worked their after we had left! Small world indeed. So, for those of you that love Orville Redenbachers, or Jiffy Pop, or even if you are a Jolly Time popcorn person, listen up! Popcorn tastes may come and go, but the taste for D I R T shall never change.

UTAH 24/7

2009-02-28T17:29:00.005-08:00

So this post is about the State of Utah and some of the great places that you can go to when you visit the Southern end of the state. Rainbow Bridge is located in Arches National Park. It, along with Bryce Canyon and Moab are all 3 places in Southern Utah that you can find things to do 24/7. Moab is one of my favorite locations in the state and I along with my husband, spent LOTS of time at Slick Rock, known primarily for it's UHMAZING mountain biking trails. The dirt samples all look the same, but I assure you they are all very different. A coworker named Wade Bridges gave me the dirt from Rainbow Bridge some time ago. Jerry, my husband, collected the Moab sample while on a mountain biking excursion with the young men in the ward, and the Bryce Canyon dirt was given to me from a guest at the hotel this past year. The publication, UTAH 24/7 is one of a series of books published by Rick Smolan and David Elliot Cohen. They are the authors of The New York Times bestsellers America 24/7 and A Day in the Life of America. The book truly shows Utah telling it's own story in pictures. The thing I love most about Utah is the fact that it has 4 distinct seasons. Southern Utah has ever changing beauty during all 4 of them. For more info on tourism in Utah, www.discovermoab.com as well as www.utah.com and my personal favorite, www.utahvalley.org will all get you started. Be sure to book your rooms in Orem, www.oremhamptoninn.com , drop off some dirt and say hello!

There's No Place Like Home

2009-02-20T19:21:00.012-08:00

From coast to coast and sea to shining sea, MY travels have taken me to quite a few places over the last 47 years or so. But one thing is for sure. No matter where my travels take me, it is always nice to go back to the place where the mountains are ominous, the skies are clear and beautiful and the dirt is...well...dirty.

Utah.

Orem is home to so many things....

Orem Owlz Baseball: http://www.owlzbaseball.com/

University Mall : http://www.shopuniversitymall.com/

where this sample was collected

Utah Valley University: http://www.uvu.edu/

Orem Hampton Inn & Suites: http://www.oremhamptoninn.com/

and most importantly, the Ridley Clan: http://www.ridleyclan.blogspot.com/

There's no place like home.

Lake Tahoe

2009-02-20T17:40:00.005-08:00

Lake Tahoe has always been special to me. I spent my 21st birthday there and even before that, fell in love with the town. My highschool had great ski trips to Tahoe and I learned so many things about the environment when visiting over the years.

The buildings all look like cabins...even the 7-11, gas stations, and grocery stores. Everything is green and lush and resembles a giant camp ground. And the best part of the city, however, is the lake itself!

http://www.visitinglaketahoe.com/ has all kinds of info on the area inlcuding ski areas, hotels, (you know which one would be my choice!) casinos, restaurants and just about anything else you want to know or places you want to visit.

This sample was collected on 11/3/83. Wow, it sure took me a long time to give it the respect it was due! Tahoe could be ranked as my favorite city of all time...move over Oahu!

Hang Ten in Hawaii

2009-02-12T19:00:00.000-08:00

The page says it all, but some Tid-bits the picture doesn't show are as follows:

Judge is a great Cabana Boy. (and very cheap)

Holli can not catch a rooster no matter how hard she tries. (but it was fun to watch)

Meagen is beautiful when on a beach. (and anywhere else for that matter)

Madison is allergic to the sun. (who knew?)

Jerry plays a mean game of frisbee football. (poor locals)

Brenda can swim better than the turtles. (at least till the rescue squad arrives)

Our feet are always somewhere right? This particular shot was from Hanauma Bay. This was my 3rd trip to this location. What made it the best one yet was the fact that I shared it with my family.

Anchors Away in Galveston, Texas

2009-02-10T23:01:00.002-08:00

Anchors Away indeed! Galveston Texas for me, was the equivalent of opening an oven door after reaching a temperature of 400 degrees and sticking my face in it. Jerry had always told me of the humidity in the south. I can't imagine this being any worse than there, however, fortunate for me, the conditions were only temporary. We quickly boarded the Rhapsody of the Seas operated by Royal Carribean shortly thereafter. Of course, that is after I snagged this sample of sand from across the street from the boarding area.

I kept the sand and while on the actual cruise in the actual class, I used the actual sand I collected and created this layout. The thing I remember the most about the class was that we had so much FUN! As the ship turned at one point, we even had several ladies, well....let's just say, make a run for the restrooms! Good times.

Nothing to do with dirt!

2009-02-09T19:45:00.005-08:00

ONLY because I have so much respect for the Angry Georgian, am I going to post on here about my first picture in my photo folders. This is Ms. Holli. She is SO beautiful and one of my three pride and joys! This was a photo shoot Holli and her friend Megan did at UVU this past fall. The thing about Holli is, she could be covered in sand, dirt, mud, or anything else, she would still be beautiful! I suppose I now need to tag three others so here it goes...Clayton, Neisha, and Madi. Let's see how far this challenge travels!

Bahamas

2009-02-08T23:01:00.003-08:00

While a scanning coordinator at a local grocery store here in Orem (one of my many jane of all trades gigs) I worked with a great person named Shawnie Drury. Shawnie and I became very good friends. She actually was the reason I started listening to country music! If only Kenney Chesney was around in the 80's! Shawnie and Andy, her then boyfriend, eventually got married and traveled to the Bahamas for their honeymoon. I just happened to be the recipient of some great sand from one of the beaches they visited. Like most samples given to me from a beach, it arrived in a water bottle. The consistency was that of baby powder. Beautiful sand from what I am sure is a beautiful location. Ain't love grand!?

Surf and Turf in Key West, Florida

2009-02-07T23:01:00.002-08:00

The beach has always been a favorite place for me. When "Croppin and Cruisin" several years ago, one of the stops we made was in Key West, Florida. Of all of the traveling I did while teaching scrapbook classes, this may very well have been the best place ever.

About 50 yards from the dock was a bike rental kiosk. One sailing pass and $24.00 later we were on our way! A Cuban grocery store was the next place we stopped and picked up some essentials...Sun tan lotion, granola bars, lottery tickets and some H2O.

Before the day was over we sunbathed next to a military base, saw Ernest Hemingway's home, went to a little shop and ate real Keylime pie, rode to Mac's Sea Garden to get gifts and before we returned the bikes even got caught in a HUGE rainstorm. All this fun, and I still managed to get some sand from the beach we were on.

Haha! It was even a topless beach! The funniest thing about it all, was the fact that we were the only ones willing to go in the water. I just figured it was because all the locals had been there done that attitudes. Little did I know (until we were leaving) that the beach had been closed due to a hazardous spill . (This one event may very well explain all of my issues eh?)

The entire trip was a great experience and I love the feel of the sand. Right around this same area is the Southern most point of the United States. Sooner than later I will blog about all of the "mosts" in the United States. From coast to coast and everywhere in between, there's is always great places to gather dirt from.

Romine Territory

2009-02-05T19:01:00.002-08:00

I was so excited to get this little sample from the Romine Family who are located in Lake Forest, California. We met the Romine Family via their son Andrew who is a phenomenal, yes, unbelievably phenomenal baseball player. Andrew lived with us during the 2007 baseball season during which time he played for the Orem Owlz, the rookie team to the Anaheim Angels. Andrew was so much fun to watch and the best short stop ever to take the field at the Brent Brown Stadium in Orem. (okay, so as his host mom, I may be a little biased). Andrew's family, mom June, little sister, and his dad Kevin, came and visited with us too! If the name Kevin Romine rings a bell, it is probably because he was a Major League player himself. Pappa Romine played for 12 years with the Boston Red Sox. * Yes, I even have dirt from the field at Fenway too. This dirt was from their yard and is now holding a special place in the collection.

I miss Andrew. He no doubt will be in Arizona very soon. He, along with all our past players, will be sweating it out during spring training . For this baseball fan... not soon enough!

Thank you Romine Family! Thank you Andrew. L.L.s

Mississippi River (MUD)

2009-01-28T23:01:00.004-08:00

So, why do I have a logo of the band AC/DC on my post? Weird, I know. But, the purpose in Jeremy Hanks visiting Missouri was not, contrary to popular belief, just to collect more dirt for me! Oh, HELL no!

He went there to completely and totally have his mind blown away by his favorite band, none other than AC/DC. They were in concert and while he was there getting what I am sure is unrepairable hearing loss, he snaked me dirt not only from the St. Louis Arch as previously posted but the Mississippi River as well.

The bag it came in was neatly wrapped. It was actually in 2 bags. So, suffice to say, it still contained a lot of moisture from the river.

Yes, it looked just like MUD! And not the kind of Mississippi Mud you would enjoy eating at a restaurant! *Note to self, prepare delicious dessert for family tonight. The mud has been in my possession for over a week and has yet to dry out. But, like all good, wet, dirt samples, I have no doubt that eventually it will. Here's to Jeremy and all his travels.

Jer,

I will assume that the band inspired you with this song to get my latest dirt sample. ENJOY!

The St. Louis Arch

2009-01-26T23:01:00.001-08:00

The St. Louis Arch is our nation's tallest man made monument standing over 630 feet tall. It was built to commemorate the westward growth of the United States between 1803 and 1890. So much information can be found about the arch by visiting the web site http://www.gatewayarch.com/. Jeremy Hanks gave me this sample along with dirt from the Mississippi River. He also pointed out that the sample was dug up from the closest point to the Arch as was possible. Jeremy does a lot of traveling to say the least, and you can read about his adventures at his blog site, http://www.jeremyhanks.com/. Check back later to read about the Mississippi Mud he collected as well. You will not want to miss this!

Brian Schweitzer and Montana Dirt

2009-01-25T09:42:00.009-08:00

I received another WE CARE envelope in the mail yesterday. This time it was from the state of Montana. The Governor's office didn't send official Governor letterhead or anything, just a nice sample from the capitol. I decided to include a recent photo of the Governor. The web site you can learn more about the state of Montana is http://www.visitmt.com/. Talk about a beautiful state, and in my personal opinion, beautiful people. The Hampton Inn in Great Falls is wonderful and the accommodations are top notch. Hopefully, I will be able to return there again this year as the Owlz Baseball Team will be traveling to Great Falls, Helena, and Billings during their regular season.

San Diego, California

2009-01-21T23:01:00.002-08:00

The sample on the left was the dirt that Meagen and Christopher collected while on vacation in San Diego 2 years ago. The one in the middle is actually one that I collected over 5 years ago. The container it is in was actually a vial that my Avonex medicine used to come in. I have since then, purchased a new white plastic carrying case about the size of a teaspoon that I keep on my key chain just in case I find some cool soil and I need a place to keep it until I get home. The one on the right was given to me by a former client that I worked with in the scrapbook industry.

I have collected so many samples from San Diego, California, that I decided to combine them all in one post. You remember KK? She sent me some dirt recently from the Lake Mead area in Nevada. Well, she sent these samples from San Diego as well. I laughed when she dropped a little note in the bag too. This is not from the beach, but you can SEE the beach from where I got it! Ha ha ha. Love that line!

She also sent me some sand dollars as well. Knowing my love of the ocean she must. Those quickly went into a decorative jar in my guest bathroom. Thank you to Meagen and KK both for the samples. San Diego is so beautiful. The median temperature is 78 degrees year round! That's something I could get used to. Thank you to everyone for expanding my beach sand from San Diego.

The Tale of Two Cities

2009-01-20T23:01:00.005-08:00

Lewisburg, West Virginia and Fremont, California. ...Quick. What do they have in common?

(insert theme from Jeopardy here) Well, they both had my good friend Julie Hatch visit them recently. One to reunite with an old friend, and one to say goodbye to a loved one. Both visits, actually, were completed by Julie and once again she remembered to bring me back some soil.

Google Some Ground!

2009-01-18T23:01:00.000-08:00

I love the search engine GOOGLE.

For several reasons.

1. They are so creative with the lettering

2. They are so fast

3. They always answer my questions

So I recently googled the words 'collected dirt'. UNREAL... 8 million sites came up for me to research. So here they are:

1. NO WAY! I wouldn't do that to you!

But, in doing all that research I did discover that Dirt, truly is the great connector in our lives. I was amazed at all of the things in this world associated with dirt. Here are a few of the things I discovered:

Dirt in the diet:

http://www.query.nytimes.com/

Nasa and Dirt: http://www.space.com/

www.monstersandcritics.com/science/news/

Dirt the movie: http://www.dirtthemovie.org/

Sports: www.csmonitor.com/2005/1018/p18s02-hfks.html?s www.nydailynews.com/blogs/jets/2006/11/

http://www.sportscollectorsdigest.com/

Art Work: http://www.sedonadirt.com/

Education: http://www.livingworld.net/

www.beg.utexas.edu/education/dirtisdirt/dirt01.

Family and Tragedy: www.newsday.com/topic/ny

Urban Dictionary: (and one of my personal favorites!) SNOWBO

http://www.urbandictionary.com/

Collection of Exotic Dirt: www.roadsideamerica.com/tip/374

Religion : www.wish.ca/beauty/regulararticle/415

Just plain creepy: www.luckymojo.com/graveyarddirt

How to clean your carpets: http://www.therestorationresource.com/

Gold: http://www.yukongoldmining.com/

Music: www.lyricsdomain.com/9/insane_clown_posse/dirt_ball.html

Minerals: http://www.mindat.org/

Gardening: http://www.plantsforallseasons.com/

Politics: www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=12309279

generation-xy.blogspot.com

www.amazon.com/Joyce-G-Men-Hoovers-Manipulation-Modernism/dp

Cooking: www.recipetips.com/recipe-cards/t--2693/wiggle-worm-dirt-pudding.asp recipe for dirt pudding

Arts and Culture: www.roundupnews.com/news/2004/01/26/ArtsAndCulture/Artist.Draws.Connections-

Experiments: www.livingworld.net/works/soil

Dog Grooming: dogantics.com/welshiepup/grooming

Appliances: www.outscape.net/bocas/archives/entries/cooking_appliances_made_of_mud.html

Famous places: www.mountvernon.org/visit/plan/index.cfm www.dcpages.com/gallery/Lincoln-Memorial

Health Tips: www.wish.ca/beauty/regulararticle/415

www.gallupindependent.com/2007/june

Steven Speilberg info: http://www.stvnspeilberg.sosblog.com/

Animals: www.livescience.com/animals/080111-chimps-dirt.html

www.army.mil/-news/2007/03/30/2479-prime-power-lights-up-anaconda

Baseball: http://www.baseballrubbingmud.com/

www.guardian.co.uk/sport/blog/2008/oct/01/mlb.playoffs.preview

Lecture series: www.heritagesociety.org/Hendee-Texas%20Legacy081507.pdf

Dirt collectors: www.cnn.com/TRAVEL/DESTINATIONS/9711/souvenirs/readers www.naturalhomemagazine.com/Inspiration

blogs.herald.com/dave_barrys_blog

WOW!: www.cbc.ca/canada/calgary/story/2008/01/22/hildebrand-survivor

WTF?: http://www.scentedsoils.com/

www.spirituellewerkstatt.ch/The_Traveler_of_Dreams

http://www.almalopez.net/

So there you have it. From appliances, to anacondas, to dog grooming and on to minerals and Mars. The fact that dirt touches all of our lives is wonderful! Enjoy these web sites, and should you find anymore creative places on the web to visit, do send me the link! Of the first 50 sites that I went to, 4 of them were for none other than...

Dirt Travels

Surf and TURF

2009-01-17T21:00:00.000-08:00

Sand from Surf Beach in Lompoc, California. It's located next to Vandenberg Air Force Base. This dirt was obtained after testing of the Ground-Based Midcourse Defense (GMD) missile. This is the missile that defends our nation from missile attacks. The only other detail I can offer (Top Secret means Top Secret) is that a newly acquired friend named Lance saved it for me and sent it my way! The texture is very similar to sand I have also recently received from San Diego.

Surf Beach is located not far from Highway 1 and 240 where the road dead ends at the Vandenberg Base. Amtrak has even recently just opened a stop there letting you right off at the beach. And you know how I feel about Amtrak! Ride the rails, and then the tide! Sounds like the perfect vacation to me! There is also an Embassy Suites near by. Remember, staying with a Hilton property is always the best way to go.

Thank you Lance! I appreciate you thinking of me during your recent JOURNEY!

Chester J. Culver and Iowa Dirt

2009-01-14T23:01:00.000-08:00

My dad is from a very small (or what used to be small) town in Iowa named Red Oak. I have a small sample of dirt from there but was still very excited to receive this sample of dirt from the Governor, Mr. Chester J. Culver. He had collected it some time ago but was waiting for it to dry out a little. I had to laugh, in his letter he even mentioned that is was muddy, "But it is that time of year here in Iowa." he said.

The day I received this sample, Orem received a foot of snow. I guess Mr. Culver, it is that time of year here in Utah as well. To obtain more information about Iowa, he suggested going to this web site: http://www.governor.iowa.gov/.

Thank you for the sample! When it dries out, it will be placed in another glass vial provided by specialty bottle and added to the collection.

Daytona Beach, Florida

2009-01-12T19:21:00.002-08:00

Shawnnee and her husband Troy did a lot for us. Not only did they offer a home away from home to Holli when she was in Boston, they also "traveled" me some way cool dirt from Daytona Beach, Florida. The sand was just like I remembered the sand in Key West. Baby powder consistency and the little extra they brought me was cool too! Sea weed that looked like it had pyracantha berries on it. I am glad that blogs don't have smell a vision too! Oh my, let's just say, the sand was so (smelly) beautiful, it took my breath away! They brought me such a large amount that I even had some extra that I could add to my salt water fish tank. The fish were in heaven. I will post about that later. It was interesting too that they brought it to me in a water bottle. I imagine that most people take bottled water with them to the beach and that is the reason that most people send me samples using them. Thank you Shawnnee and Troy for sharing your adventure with me! And just a side note: Troy, you gave her the "words of encouragement" when she needed it the most in her life, and those words will never be taken lightly, and too, will never be forgotten. You (and the sample of sand) are appreciated!

M. Michael Rounds and South Dakota Dirt

2009-01-11T23:01:00.000-08:00

I think I may have found a closet "dirt digger" in my new friend Beverly Mickelson. I received my letter from the Governor's office quite some time ago, but wanted to do a little more research before posting.

First of all, Beverly's letter was written with such enthusiasm I could tell, this wasn't just another assignment placed on her desk to complete. Or if it was, she made it a mission! A very big thanks goes out to her for the great letter and the sample that she collected in Pierre, South Dakota - specifically the Capitol Complex. Here too, is some awesome info she shared with me.

South Dakota has named "houdek" as the state soil. OKAY, you had me at houdek! To honor this natural resource, the South Dakota Legislature made houdek (pronounced hoo-deck)the official state soil in 1990. Houdek soil is not found in any other state. It was chosen because it and closely related soils occur on more than 2 million, (yes, you read that correctly) 2 million acres across South Dakota.

The following entities have additional general and / or technical information on South Dakota Soils:

USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, South Dakota www.sd.nrcs.usda.gov/soi/soilinfo

The Professional Soil Scientists Association of South Dakota http://www.pssasd.org/

Soil and Water Conservation Society http://www.sdswcs.org/

And let us not forget, for more information on South Dakota http://www.sd.gov/

A final note added to the letter makes me want to go there for a personal visit as well, to experience "houdek" in person. Wow, to think, someone used the word experience in the same sentence as soil. Again, you had me at HOUDEK.

My most sincere thank you to Beverly and Mr. Rounds.

The United States Postal Service

2009-01-07T23:01:00.000-08:00

What would the holidays be without mail coming in and mail going out. Now that the holidays have past, I think about how amazingly efficient the United States Postal Service really is. Sure we complain about the price of a stamp going up. Sure we complain when something gets damaged here and there. And of course, we all complain when something gets lost completely!

But for me, to have someone pick something up at my house, and within a week or so deliver it to another person for me for under a buck... It's still a bargain. I have gotten a few dirt samples in the mail recently, that made me giggle when they arrived. I've posted some pictures. The funny thing is, the one that says we care was delivered with a bag of dirt in the envelope inside of it. Apparently, it traveled so far on it's journey, that it just got all messed up. Even funnier? It came from Salt Lake City! The State of Arizona wanted to be sure that I got my dirt sample in very good condition and didn't take any chances with theirs. They even went as far as labeling the envelope FRAGILE! Now that's a new one. Dirt being fragile. Thanks to the USPS for delivering my dirt to me in rain, or snow, or sleet, or sun, or ...

2 of My Favorite Angels

2009-01-05T23:01:00.000-08:00

A late Christmas gift, an early Mother's day gift, a Congratulations on no longer being sick and going back to work gift...I don't know, pick a reason, but my extended "family" from Alabama could not have picked a better time to send me a little sample of dirt from where they spent their Christmas this year. Joplin, Missouri. This is Beau Brooks and his grandma Donna Boyd. Beau was one of many players that we were a host family to. Donna and I became email buddies when I was lay ed up and in bed for a month during December. She was so great about emailing me each morning. Donna also commented on my blog quite some time ago and told me about her sand collection from Destin, Florida. This sample from Joplin, Missouri arrived along with a beautiful hand thrown bowl. I included a picture of it because of it's "organic" nature. The potter who created it is from Alabama.

Her name is Tena Payne and her web site is http://www.earthbornpottery.net/ She describes her pottery style as "randomness under control with a subdued sophistication." I just love the fact that she has taken different earth elements, mixed them together in the right ratio and placed it in the fire. All I know, is it turned out beautiful! I can say without hesitation, my "family from Bama", they could be the nicest people I have ever had the privilege of being associated with.

Churchill Downs

2009-01-04T23:01:00.000-08:00

Located in Louisville, Kentucky, Churchill Downs is situated on Central Avenue. This place has been around since 1875 and is said to be the best thoroughbred race track in the world. It was renovated in 2005 for a cool price of $121 million dollars. It is most famous for hosting the Kentucky Derby. It has also hosted the Breeders Cup 6 times over the past years. It is said that this event is one of the most exciting in sports history to watch. I don't know about that, but the hats that the women wear whiled in attendance are amazing! Thanks and a shout out to Julie Hatch for "kickin up her heels" to get me this sample. And I am really glad she didn't have to "pony-up" her phone number to repay the guy that went down to the track to get this for me!

Dave Fruedenthal and Wyoming Dirt

2009-01-02T23:01:00.002-08:00

A BIG SHOUT out to the Governor of Wyoming for making sure I got some dirt from his great state. I bet you are thinking I got the sweat shirt from him too. THAT would have been a great story to tell, but no, I just finally found a use for that sweat shirt and it really lets you see just how big Wyoming is! The dirt sent was very rich in color and the state capitol that it was gathered from is located in Cheyenne. You can find out more about the state of Wyoming by going to their official web site. www.wyoming.gov

Las Vegas Strip and Lake Mead

2009-01-01T23:01:00.002-08:00

I was saving this post for a later date in hopes that more samples from this person would come in. My enthusiasm prevents me from waiting any longer! Here are samples from another person whom I have never met in person, but we have a mutual acquaintance. Her samples are unique in that they are both dirt, gravel, and rocks all in one! The samples were taken from the strip in Las Vegas, Nevada, Lake Mead, Nevada and another sight just outside of Lake Mead. The thing about dirt from Nevada is that no matter where it is sent from, it always seems so dry and crumbly. These samples are no different. I actually took the rock she sent and made it part of a planter decoration in my home. Her name is KK and she also sent some really cool samples from San Diego which I will post about later. THANK YOU! Keep the samples coming!

New Year? New Dirt!

2008-12-31T23:01:00.001-08:00

Truth be told... if I had my way, everyday would be NEW YEARS DAY! I love new beginnings. That is probably why when I go out each day, I love to get the mail! Everyday is different and there is always a chance some NEW dirt will come my way. In making my plans for the new year and what I would like to accomplish with my dirt collection, I thought it would be wise to recap all of the states that I recieved dirt from in 2008.

Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Alabama, California, no wait...

On second thought, it would be easier to list the states that I DID NOT recieve dirt from....

Connecticut, Colorado, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Minnesota, Maine, Missouri, Mississippi, North Dakota, Oregon, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, and Wisconsin.

So 2009, HERE I COME! I hope to finish off my list of Capitols for sure. And another goal is to have dirt collected from the new LDS temples being dedicated this year. I have even thought of starting my celebrity dirt quest as well. With the Sundance Film Festival right around the corner, you never know who might be walking around, just waiting to hand out some samples from their hometowns! (You never know, it could happen?!)

I could use everyone's help for sure! So call your travel agents, plan lots of trips, call lots of relatives, and send lots of samples! I will be sure to give you credit. Out with the old and in with the new! Send me some dirt, and I'll always LOVE you!

A Gift from Puerto Rico

2008-12-28T23:01:00.003-08:00

I had a coworker at one time that was from Puerto Rico. His name was Angel and it was truly, the perfect name that should be given to him. He was one of the most humble, caring, and giving people I have ever been blessed to be around.

2 years ago, Angel and his family traveled back to Puerto Rico to visit with family and friends for the holidays. When he returned he told me that he remembered I collected dirt and wanted to give me a little something from where he was born and raised. This sample is what he brought to me. He told me about the area in which it was purchased and how it is a very famous spot because of the battles that had been fought there.

Porta Caribe was the location of where this sand was bottled from. It stands for the "Gateway to the Caribbean". Go to http://www.topuertorico.org/ for more information on Puerto Rico. They have lots of information on how to get there as well as what to do when you are!

Time has passed and I don't know what journey Angel is on now. Wherever it might me, I hope he knows, this little part of him, is now a little part of me. Gracias, Angel.

Apache Junction,Arizona

2008-12-26T23:01:00.006-08:00

The people that read your blog might surprise you. There are the obvious "just passin' through" types, they are the ones that type something in incorrectly, only to realize their mistake and begin retyping. Then, there are the "comic page" types, they are the ones that read only the things in your blog pertaining to them and the level of happiness received from only those posts they are particulary interested in. Then, there are my personal favorites. The blog buddies. The ones that, for whatever reason, find your blog, read your blog, sincerely enjoy your blog, then find a reason to participate in your blog. Thus, I give you the following dirt sample. This I received from my newest blog buddy the Angry Georgian who was on a trip visiting Arizona.

Remember in my original post, I commented on the main reason that I love collecting dirt from others and not just my own experiences, is because of the happiness it brings me knowing that someone took the time to first think about me, second, gather some dirt, or sand, or soil, or shells, or rocks, or treebark, or whatever, and third send it to me. WAY COOL! Thank you again. I look forward to more of your adventures and a little piece of them coming my way. For those of you wanting more information about Apache Junction, Arizona, read the Angry Georgians' comment or just google away!

From BLOG to BOOK!

2008-12-25T21:21:00.009-08:00

The people in my family, simply put...are AMAZING!

They contacted a company called Shared Book. www.sharedbook.com They are so proud of me for finally getting my blog up and running that they rewarded me BIG TIME! They took the information that I have put on the world wide web and had it produced into Book Form... All of my posts up to the end of November 2008 are there in that book. All 34 pages of it. It has a Dedication page, Table of Contents, and even has a footnote section that lists all of the comments that have been left by readers of my blog!

They are going to update it for me periodically and promised me that the next one will arrive sometime in May. Mother's Day perhaps? Whenever it comes makes no difference to me! I am just glad they found this place and had it delivered on Christmas morning. Thank you so much to my family. And of course, all of you, since, after all YOU are the stars of my show. So now, when I write stuff on my blog, I know that eventually, I will get to see it in book form. Hit the web site. It really is amazing, and very affordable to do as well! Look closer, that may be you on that page!

Holiday Cheer

2008-12-24T23:01:00.009-08:00

Whatever is in Santa's bag for you this year, I hope that it is something that you will always hold dear to your heart. It's always easy to give and receive this time of year. The trick is to keep things in focus, and not get lost in the commercial side of the season. For me, this time of year is when I like to reflect on all that has been done for me. Thank you to everyone that has helped me to reflect on all the areas in the world that are beautiful. All the places on this earth that have been "given" to us to enjoy and appreciate.

The ornament hanging on our tree that best symbolizes the meaning for this season is our nativity ornament. It contains sand from Bethlehem along with a nativity scene that includes the Child in a manger. I have also included pictures of dirt from both Jerusalem as well as Nazareth.

All of these hold special places in my heart.

One last photo I have included. It is my favorite holiday item that is put up each year at my house. Season's Greetings to all of my family and friends, wherever in your journey you are.

Christmas is the time when even he who gives, remembers Him who gave.

Merry Christmas Everyone!

Christine O. Gregoire and Washington Dirt 2

2008-12-23T21:43:00.004-08:00

I knew she wouldn't let me down! I received my dirt from the Department of Natural Resources, Geological Department today, located in Washington State. The funny thing is, they sent it to Ms. Gregoire, only to have her mail it on to me! Thank you for all of your efforts, and especially to Gary and Carol for making it all happen. The dirt is beautiful and will be bottled up and placed in my collection to join all the others very soon. You are appreciated!

Ruth Ann Minner and Delaware Dirt

2008-12-22T23:01:00.002-08:00

I love the letters that come with my dirt samples. Of course, they are all saved and will some day be put into many "physical" scrapbooks. They are all sort of worded the same way. Very polite and PC. They probably get hundreds of requests every day at the state Capitols for stuff like I requested. Oh, okay, so maybe not DIRT requests but important things none the less. Here is my response and dirt sample from the state of Delaware. As the letter stated, Delaware is a unique state in many ways, a good source of information on Delaware is located at http://www.delaware.gov/. This sample was taken at the Tatnall Building in Dover. It was a very rich brown color and almost reminded me of a sample I received from Iowa years ago. Sometimes, even when the states are so far apart, the dirt still looks very similar. Thank you to Alexis Carter who is Ms. Minner's assistant. You are appreciated!

Mark Sanford and South Carolina Dirt

2008-12-22T10:44:00.001-08:00

The State of South Carolina actually holds a lot of personal ties for me. Even though I am from California, I did marry a southern boy. He was from Greenville and since we have been together it seems like we are always running into people from this great state. Many of our baseball players actually hail from South Carolina. This sample was sent from the Govenor's office there with the help of Ms. Leanna DuPree. It's texture is simple enough, and it is truly beautiful to look at. Thank you to the state of South Carolina. Not only for the great dirt sample, but for sending a certain Southern boy my way!

Christine O. Gregoire and Washington Dirt

2008-12-21T22:24:00.000-08:00

Someone could learn a valuable lesson from this lady! Congratulations on being so on the ball! And for not sending me a "dirty" letter. Here is my letter that was sent in response to my request for dirt from the State of Washington. They were even so kind as to include my self-addressed stamped envelope. Hey, maybe I could use it to give California another chance!

Hey Arnold.... "I'll be back!"

I will be patiently awaiting another envelope from these fine folks. Washington is a BEA utiful state. My favorite town was Seattle. We visited there several times while moving to Junea, Alaska many years ago.

Famous by noon tomorrow...

2008-12-19T10:20:00.008-08:00

Or is it infamous? I love going to my stat finder and seeing where all the hits to the blog site are coming from. On Sunday, for no particular reason, I happened to have an enormous amount of "hits". I wondered what was up, because I didn't really have anything very quippy to say about anything, I didn't post anything new, not a single thing was updated or changed! Then, after finding out that Florida apparently reads my blog, I discovered what was up. Go to http://www.palmbeachpost.com/blogs/content/shared-blogs/palmbeach/floridapolitics/entries to see for yourself what all the excitement was about.

After doing so, be sure to go to the calendar for the Sunday December 14th posting. How fun!

I've got some catching up to do...

2008-12-19T03:02:00.004-08:00

Dear Blog Buddies,

Sorry, I have gotten a tad bit behind. I'm horrible I know. I am constantly requesting that everyone that blogs, do so on a regular basis. Mainly as a complement however, because I love to read what they have on their minds. Now I know how it feels...to be bugged about it! To those of you waiting to see your posts, please be patient. I haven't forgotten about you. To those of you sending more dirt to me...HURRY UP! I don't have all day! Just kidding of course. As you can see, I've got some catching up to do...Please be sure to tune in on December 25th for a SPECIAL HOLIDAY post. No Peeking until then.

Denied by CALIFORNIA

2008-12-19T00:44:00.007-08:00

So, here it is...the ultimate in Dis...On November 3rd I received this letter...

Dear Ms. Ridley,

Thank you for taking the time to send your request to Governor Schwarzenegger. As we hope you understand, the Governor receives many similar requests, and although he would like to fulfill each one, his busy schedule simply does not permit it.

Again, thank you for contacting the Governor's office.

Sincerely,

Office of Constituent Affairs

My favorite part?

A. It was on my birthday!

B. It wasn't even signed

C. It was on my birthday!

Shhhhhsh. Denied by my own "home" state.

tsk tsk tsk.

P.S. What the heck is the Office of Constituent Affairs anyway?

At least the Governor of the State of Washington took the time to forward my request onto someone else who could take care of it. (please see upcoming post...)

Pennsylvania Coal

2008-12-11T23:01:00.004-08:00

Thanks go out to my nephew in Pennsylvania for this really cool sample of Coal. Even though it's not dirt, I loved the bottle in came in. I poured some out in order to look at it and was very surprised at how strong it smelled like soot. It also left quite a bit of "soot" on my counter as well. The coal was surprisingly shiny too. I did get a little more information about this amazing little bottle of coal today from my sister in California. The coal is from the Lakawana Railroad Museum in Scranton, PA. She actually got it for me while attending a conference in Wilkes-Barre. The Lakawana Museum is home to the Steamtown NHS' UP #4012 "Big Boy" engine. Here's the link: www.nps.gov/stea . Take a gander and let me know what you think. Oh yeah, and let me know if they yell, "ALL ABOARD".

Thank you Sue!

Family Digs

2008-12-10T23:01:00.002-08:00

Here are 4 dirt collections from my niece Michelle in California.

Rumsey, ClearLake Oaks, Esparto, and Willits. Michelle lives, let's just say, "OUT" in the country, but goes into Sacramento for dentist, doctor appointments, and other stuff. I was so glad she thought of me when heading into town her last time. Each sample was really dry except for the Rumsey dirt. I have been drying it for almost a week and it is still too wet to put in a bottle. Makes me wonder what makes it so water retentive. Thanks Michelle.

Berry, Illinois Eddieville, Kentucky

2008-12-09T23:01:00.002-08:00

These 2 samples were sent along with some Dominican Republic dirt from Rodney Brooks. The dirt from Berry Illinois is fun to look at mainly because it's not from somewhere famous but just another "home town" sample. The good folks at the Hampton Inn in Eddieville actually hooked my family up with a great rate after they had the misfortune of a flat tire. Dirt will be dirt.

New Zealand Dirt

2008-12-08T23:01:00.002-08:00

I received this sample from a young lady my daughter used to compete in gymnastics with. Funny how life always makes a complete circle eh? Andrea went to New Zealand and brought this sand back for me. She said their dirt is very similar to the red soil in the Carolinas, although this sand she collected is darker. It is not from one of the black beaches but was from just north of Auckland on the east coast of the North Island. The color up close is beautiful. This particular sample when I opened it seemed to be (for lack of a better word), humble. Just tranquil and calm. I would imagine the waters surrounding it would be the same. Thank you Andrea.

Charlie Crist and Florida Dirt

2008-12-07T23:01:00.002-08:00

Thank you Mr. Crist for not 1 but 2 samples from your great state. Mayakka sand is the state soil of Florida. It was almost powdery in consistency and was a pretty shade of gray. The other sample given to me was from the Capitol building in Tallahassee. If interested in Mr. Crists' initiatives visit this web site: http://www.flgov.com/ and click on "Subscribe to Notes from the Capitol. I hope to visit Florida again someday. The beaches are beautiful. My sand from Key West is amazing and I will post about it later.

Dear John,

2008-12-06T23:01:00.002-08:00

Dear John,

I love my dirt you sent me...

You are the greatest person for sending me a wonderful "mystery" sample of soil from that "mystery" location. I think the dirt must have a "mystery" ingredient. This is what I need...The "mystery" way to get the stain off of my countertops, my washclothes, and my t-shirt that I was wearing while filling up my dirt sample into it's home inside a bottle. Thank you so much! You know how to get in touch with me.

All My Love,

Brenda

Dirt! The Movie

2008-12-06T21:12:00.009-08:00

da da da da da...News Flash! This just in. Scott "Skippy" Jessop, you know the fellow that proposed to Mandy Moore last year at the Sundance Film Festival? Well, he just called to inform me about a new movie that will be premiering at this year's Sundance Film Festival. Believe it or not, it's title is.... Dirt! The Movie. You can read about the movie by going to http://www.dirtthemovie.org/ . I really liked the production status section. WOW! Finally a movie I can enjoy! Did somebody say OSCAR?

Magnetic dirt? YES!

2008-12-06T20:04:00.007-08:00

SO... I may have received the coolest dirt sample ever! A big shout out to Jay E. Bates for sending me this sample. The dirt he sent me is from the Benitoite Gem Mine in San Benito County California. The only place in the world where Benitoite is found in gem quality. Benitoite is the state gemstone of California I am told and that in itself is cool. But the best is yet to come...Benitoite contains magnetite which is very magnetic. Jay told me that if you put a magnet in the dirt, it would be buried by the dirt which is attracted to the magnet. So that's what we did. And sure enough Jay wasn't lying. We grabbed a magnet off the fridge and the dirt stuck right to it! That's me holding the dirt up in front of my kitchen cabinet. Included in my goodie bag was also Benitoite and Neptunite crystals. There was a glossy black crystal, that turned out to be very dark red. All that talk about refractive indexes sounded really intelligent too! In simple terms, that means they sparkle. All I know is that the sample was amazing and I now have a magnet on my desk, magically holding dirt!

The Eiffel Tower and Versailles

2008-12-06T19:30:00.010-08:00

Jeremy has traveled again, and so has my dirt! This is a sample from the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. He mentioned that he got it from the very base of the tower. What a cool addition to my collection. I love the color green that DOBA uses for their company so in honor of that lovely color, here ya go. Versailles was another stop on the Hanks' vacation to France. Both of the samples that they brought back with them were kind of damp. And actually, the sample from Versailles almost looked like SOS. (That's hamburger gravy for those of you not familiar with the military term). I'll post some additional photos after they have both dried out. Till then, enjoy!

Dominican Republic Digs

2008-12-03T23:01:00.005-08:00

I received a LITTLE envelope the other day with a BIG gift inside! Lots and lots of dirt from my "family" in Alabama, the Brooks Clan. They sent me a sample of dirt that was beautiful from the Dominican Republic where Beau was playing baseball. He and several other boys of summer spent about 3 weeks there, working on their baseball skills and extending their season. The dirt is several shades of red and orange and is very dry. It has a texture of almost ground rock. But then again, isn't that what all dirt is? Also included was a ,sample from Eddieville, Kentucky where, chance would have it, a flat tire inspired the gathering of dust just for me! Thank you once again to my friends in Bama!

Bill Richardson and New Mexico Dirt

2008-12-02T23:01:00.002-08:00

I have grown so attentive to the details lately. This letter was actually the first one I received after sending out my requests to the governors of each state. Congratulations to Bill Richardson for being on the ball! This sample was one I really needed because I have very little if any soil from the state of New Mexico. You can visit his state on the web at http://www.newmexico.org/ or http://www.state.nm.us/. Thank you again for being the first to respond to my request. I noticed!

Phillipines

2008-12-01T22:47:00.007-08:00

Thank you to Mariel Connelly for the great Christmas "dough" and of course, for the dirt sample from the Phillipines. It was such a quick drop off that I didn't get all of the details, but Mariel sent me an email explaining about the dirt. Hundred Islands is located just off Alaminos City in the Phillipines. Her parents are serving an LDS mission there and she and her sisters got to spend some time with them over a short vacation. The ocean surrounding the islands is the South China Sea. The island that this particular dirt came from is called the Children's Island. People are forbidden to remove the sea shells and other items from the islands for fear of bad luck. Lucky for me, dirt wasn't included in the rules! Thank you Mariel!

Sarah Palin and Alaska Dirt

2008-12-01T22:37:00.010-08:00

This past week has brought me 12 samples of dirt. From as far away as the Phillipines to as close as right down the street. Having my family with me for the holidays was pretty special, and when we went to get dirt from the Old Mailbox, they were all very impressed with a little envelope from the state of Alaska. Yes, the Governor herself, the Vice President candidate, Sarah Palin, sent me a little something from her fine state. Having lived in Juneau many years ago, I had a couple of samples already. But, what made this unique was that she sent the dirt along with this card. And yes, it was personally signed by her. Even with all her busy schedule demands, she found time to send me this. What a great way to start the holiday season with a "gift" from her. The sample is similar to the ones I collected in 1985 in front of the Mendenhall Glacier. The state is beautiful and so is the soil. I have many fond memories of living there. From the Northern lights to bear cubs at my window. Thank you Ms. Palin, the dirt was appreciated! Now, could you give Arnold a call in Cali?

The Angry Georgian

2008-11-21T22:07:00.011-08:00

Another shout out is in order! This time to... the Angry Georgian. He sent me this sample of Georgia Red Clay all the way from where other than... Georgia! The red turf is quickly becoming my favorite of all the dirt from the United States. Read the Angry Georgian's blog! It is quite interesting! I still have a great deal more to post, and now that the MS body has won yet another battle, I am on it! Thank you to the Angry Georgian, you made my whole day!

The game of RISK

2008-11-14T23:01:00.003-08:00

Many years ago my family played the game of RISK. It got to be more of an obsession than just a means to pass time with a family game. We played religiously every Friday night. The winner was even awarded a giant belt similar to the one worn by wrestlers in the WWF. The board game itself wasn't big enough to accommodate all of the people we had playing each weekend so we created a larger version of the game out of several kinds of wood, stain, and a wood carver. I spent probably 2 days on the art work alone. On each side of the board was even a rolling tray for the dice. The whole thing took a little over 2 months to create, and up until now has just hung on our basement wall. As I was redecorating the basement in preparation for the holidays, it occured to me that I have dirt from almost all of the different countries on our risk board. Whalaaaa...the new display case for my dirt collection. Complete with velcro in order to remove and admire the dirt, it holds about 200 samples. Needless to say, it was filled up quickly. The whole display takes up an entire wall. I L.O.V.E. it! Now the only question is where do I put the other 200 bottles?

Nancy Crumcakes and Cinnamon rolls

2008-11-13T19:23:00.006-08:00

Lots and lots of dirt has arrived since my last post. I've been so excited to be able to start posting about each of them. Sadly, my mind and heart want to get right to it, however, my MS ridden hands are not cooperating this week. So, it's taken me a little bit of time, but I am committed to catching up pronto. My first shout out is to Nancy Crum aka...Nancy crumbcakes and cinnamon rolls. We have never met but have a mutual acquaintance. Not only was her dirt from Woodland Washington fun to receive, but the home made cinnamon rolls were D-lish! Thanks to Nancy for the dirt AND the cinnamon rolls!

Hog Wild about dirt!

2008-11-05T20:18:00.020-08:00

My birthday was this past Monday and tradition has it at the Hampton Inn that our boss takes all of the managers out to lunch for their special day. Our new DOS also has a birthday this week so together we chose where to celebrate. The Timpanogos Harley Davidson Shop located in Lindon Utah has a restaurant inside called Marleys. They serve killer sliders there and the french fries are off the charts good! But, to keep from sounding more like a restaurant review than a report on my dirt, I'll just let you go to the web site and discover for yourself how unique and really COOL this place is. Lance was our tour guide for this adventure and told us the history behind the building. For starters, it was the exact location of the Frontier Cafe, a truck stop that over 18 years ago my husband and I used to clean ceilings once a year. After it burnt down some time ago, the property just sat vacant. Small worlds collide again and now it is the Timp Harley store. Lance also told us that people drive from over 300 miles away just to see this store. And now, I have dirt to add to my collection! It rained the morning we went so it took me some time to dry the dirt out before I could store it in the jar. I encourage everyone to hit the web sites, or go in person to see for yourself how amazing this place is. The food is great, the bikes are "bitchin'" and the staff are both. I asked Lance before we left if the store was the largest Harley Dealership in the U.S. He said no, and I quote, "we never wanted to be the biggest, just the coolest." Well, I for one certainly went HOG WILD!

Meagen's Sandbox

2008-11-01T08:08:00.003-07:00

Meagen loved to play in the sandbox in the backyard of our house. These pictures were taken in 1986. In looking at the photos, one would think she was camera shy. My oh my what a difference a few years makes. I love the upclose picture of the sand. When I was web surfing this past week and looking at the international sand collectors website, I saw sand that was star shaped, flower shaped, round, oblong, and many other shapes. There was white sand, green sand, blue sand and even yellow sand. The sand in this photo seems a bit blah compared to those, but, it does have a great deal of sentimental value.

Well, actually, the sand is way cool, but I kinda think that little girl is the best part of the pic!

Election day looms

2008-10-28T19:29:00.006-07:00

So now that my "Older than dirt" campaign is in full swing, I thought that I would give you a quick update as to the states that have responded. Much to my surprise, SEVERAL! The following states have sent me samples: West Virginia, South Dakota, North Dakota, Georgia, Utah, New Mexico and Delaware. After I have received a few more, I will post some photos and some incredible stories that have been shared thus far. One state even tells me that their state legislature passed a law to make their dirt the official "State Soil". WOW! And I have some in my collection! Going to the post office everyday is just like looking forward to Christmas! Thank you in advance to all of the states that are taking the time to fulfill my request. Oh, and thank you too for sending me links to research even more fascinating facts about dirt, soil, and sand.

Don't mess with TEXAS

2008-10-26T23:01:00.001-07:00

Scrapbook pages cont. This dirt sample was actually purchased at a store in Dallas. One of the few times that I didn't get down and dirty, I just dug out a dollar! We were headed to Houston, then Galveston in order to board a cruise ship. This is the same trip that took us from Salt Lake City to Dallas Texas, to Houston Texas, to Galveston Texas and on to the ship.
The Royal Caribbean cruise ship, Rhapsody of the Seas then took us to Key West Florida, Belize, Cozumel, and back into Texas. I loved Dallas. It was one of the prettiest cities I have ever been in. The company that made the little foot shaped dirt holder has since gone out of business. BOO. I would have liked to gotten feet with dirt in them from everywhere! If you know of anyone that makes these little treasures still, hook a sister up!

All for the price of a PONCHO

2008-10-25T23:01:00.001-07:00

I'm not ganna lie...I love the fact that I did all of these pages so long ago. It makes it much easier (and a little more colorful) to do blog posts. La Bufadora has a whole treasure of memories behind it. It is located in Baja California, Mexico. Yeah, go figure. It is a local tourist attraction and in order to actually get to the attraction, you first have to walk about a mile through a mexican flea market. SO worth it! We bought way more than we should have including a gorgeous blanket that turned out to be a poncho. Go Meg GO! But I digress. So, once you have gone through the tourist tunnel and paid your dues, you end up at this very large body of water wedged between 2 rocks. When the tide comes in the waves crash up, and "buf" adora has happened. The "buf" wasn't all that great, however, there was a man dressed in full Indian dress that refused to have his picture taken because I picked up some of the dirt from La Bufadora. I really think all he wanted was a tip, but either way, I got his picture (even though it was just his backside) and my dirt. All for the price of a poncho.

Catalina Island and Avalon

2008-10-25T08:00:00.001-07:00

Another stop on another cruise. This time we took the Ecstacy with Carnival from Long Beach to Catalina Island located in Avalon California. There were the nicest people there that ran a little souvenior shop and they told me about a lot of places I could go to find some really great soil. But, we only had about an hour to shop for dirt, get some grub, and catch the dingy back to the BIG BOAT. The cruise gave us a lot of memories. One that I was really surprised about was how COLD it was on this cruise. So cold in fact that we wore mittens, scarfs, and beanies while outside of our cabin and on the deck of the ship. I'd like to return to Catalina Island again someday. This time to rent a couple of bikes and ride all over. I think this is really a great way to meet with the "locals".

Sequoias and Space Shuttles

2008-10-24T18:57:00.008-07:00

Just a random post about 2 things. The top photo is what was given to me by my nephew. He collected it from the base of the world's largest sequoia tree. The one below was taken at the last space shuttle launch. Both of these make me think about all the cool places I've yet to get or even see dirt from. A question I get asked quite a bit is where is the ONE place in the world that I would like to have dirt from. I've contemplated that so many times in my life. My first thought was Bethlehem. Not just the city, I have dirt from there. But the actual location that the Savior was born. Mt. Sanai, where the 10 commandments were given to Moses. The exact location that Joseph Smith was given the Gold Plates to translate. How about Mecca?Areas that I actually feel a connection to. Then, I think about the temple grounds of all of the LDS Temples throughout the world. And so far, I actually do have a good start on some of these. On a smaller, less spiritual scale, any historical site would be grand. Mt. Rushmore, the locations of the Civil War, the Alamo, the grassy knoll, Ford's theatre, the 4 corners, the Berlin Wall (or where it once was), and many more. Then, what about all of the places that sports history was made. Wimbeldon, PGA events, but particularly Augusta National in Georgia or St. Andrews in Scotland, oh...the Kentucky Derby. There are so many options! Legends and Lore...Billy the kid's burial ground, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid's hideouts, wow. Now I'm on a roll. See, this is the great thing about collecting dirt. There's always new places to explore, even if it's through someone elses travels. That's why I'm always saying...May your journey take you somewhere...I don't have dirt from.

Mayan Ruins of Tulum

2008-10-24T13:00:00.002-07:00

On the "Crop n Cruise" trip we got to take an excursion to the Mayan Ruins of Tulum. It was so unbelievably HOT I can't even describe it to you. Jerry and I thought we were prepared for the heat but quickly found out we were very naive as to what REAL heat can do to you.

The Mayan ruins were absolutely beautiful. Even though I was really more interested in the beach sand that I collected from there. Several people told me that the soil from there is sacred and just like Hawaii volcanic rock, it was very "unlucky" to remove it from the ruins themselves. I for one don't mess with karma, so this sample was taken from an area just north of the actual ruins.
Grandma Elza, Jerry and I will never forget our experience in Mexico. The Mayan Ruins have so much history behind them and I still have reading more about them on my list of things to do. Until then, I will enjoy my dirt while sitting in the COOL breeze back here in Utah.

The Value of DIRT

2008-10-23T23:01:00.005-07:00

Shipping for dirt from family and friends, .42 cents. Bottles to store each sample in, .25 cents. Having a collection to look at and love forever...

PRICELESS.

The value of dirt is not the same for everyone. I know that in my eyes, it is priceless. Others who look at it, quickly dismiss it and simply say, "it's just dirt" but, it's MY dirt and I could never put a price on it. This is a scrapbook layout that I created showing 6 places that I have dirt from. California, Arkansas, Nebraska, Germany and the Bahamas. I chose to leave the samples on the layout as opposed to putting them in jars in order to keep from disrupting them. The sample in the bottle next to the title page is from Michigan. Coin collections, stamp collections and other collections may fetch a higher dollar amount on EBAY, but I wouldn't take a dime for mine. Just a sidenote -

Look forward to a lot more scrapbook layout posts. I knew all those hours of cropping would pay off someday.

TIERRA is TRADITION

2008-10-23T08:18:00.009-07:00

Fort Hall Casino, Where Winning is Tradition! Well, I don't know how true that is, but... A recent trip to Idaho by a family member scored me some pretty cool dirt! Fort Hall Casino is located just North of Pocatello Idaho. We travel quite often to Idaho to follow our favorite baseball team, however, the only gamble we want to take is getting to the field less than an hour before game time. The most interesting thing about the casino is that it is an enterprise of the Shoshone-Bannock Indian Tribes. I imagine that Native Americans saw a LOT of dirt in their travels over the years. Anyone who has watched the movie Dances With Wolves with Kevin Costner can attest to that. It sure makes me wonder if any other tribes walked across this same dirt that I have now added to the collection. Hmmm...