Yo Yo Sammy

The Students I taught

2009-02-13T21:08:00.005-07:00

I have been meaning to upload pictures of my classes I taught at Summit High School. I miss Summit and teacher there. I will always remember my time there and the relationships I formed with the students and faculty. Most of all I will remember the lessons I learned. Even when life seems too hard, there is always a way if there is a will. My students taught me that and I'm grateful for them.

Proposal

2008-12-07T02:37:00.005-07:00

I surprised Angie when I proposed on November 26th up in Spokane. I had her convinced the ring wouldn't be in my hands until January. We went to Riverside State Park, to the Bowl and Pitcher overlook. I set up my camera and told her I was going to take a picture. Instead I push the record button and got the film below to keep. It isn't the best quality, but it does capture the environment. Angie was very surprised and happy. I kept thinking of creative ways to ask her. I came up with this because Angie loves me and I love her and I did it my own way of just asking her and telling her I love her.

Normalcy

2008-10-16T16:52:00.003-06:00

The following quote is how most Americans live:

Normal is getting dressed in clothes that you buy for work and driving through traffic in a car that you are still paying for - in order to get to the job you need to pay for the clothes and the car, and the house you leave vacant all day so you can afford to live in it.
-Ellen Goodman

I am not normal. I do not want this life for myself, my friends, or my family. I will live my life to change the "normal" way of life.

Reason for changing Trip Plans

2008-09-25T21:48:00.006-06:00

My relationship status is officially "not single". My life has been full of experiences of chasing women that don't want me. I have been fortunate enough to meet Angie and she actually likes me. Regardless of my mothers concerns that women will not like me because of how I slurp my cereal. Angie lives in Logan Utah and is attending Weber State Nursing school at the USU extension. She was just informed that she got a full scholarship without even applying for it. Needless to say that is a nice surprise for her since she is working hard to put herself through school.

I was planning on traveling to Guatemala in November for a coupe of months and attending Spanish School in order to learn Spanish, or what my brother John calls MEXICAN. Since things with Angie are going so well I am putting my travel plans on hold. Another reason I won't be traveling anytime soon is my financial situation. Since I quit my job most of my travel money was invested in the stock market and with the recent downturn I would be foolish to continue this spending spree.

I am currently studying for the GRE test that I will be taking in November or December. I plan on attending Graduate school this next fall. I am planning on moving to Logan Utah to be closer to Angie. I will substitute in the local schools for a little bit of money and study. I am also trying to learn Spanish on my own, but it isn't the easiest with out native speakers to surround you.

Rest of Trip

2008-09-25T21:20:00.005-06:00

Lindsey Spujt and myself. Lindsey was in my ward in Provo for a couple of years. We became great friends. She was living near Cincinnati and I happened to get to see where she was living. She met me in Louisville and then we drove back to her place in Union Kentucky. I stayed with her family and they welcomed me into their home very kindly.

My Great Uncle and Aunt Dennis and Shirley. My granddad had 6 brothers and sisters and Shirley is the last one living. She is living in Cincinnati during the Summer and Florida during the winter. It was good seeing them as I haven't been able to spend much time with them in my life. I only got to spend a couple hours but it was well worth it.

Sam, Terry, and Paul. Roommates reunited once again. I visited Paul Reynolds and his family for 4 days in Nashville Tennessee. Paul is finishing school at Vanderbuilt University. I walked around campus and felt it was a homely university with a close knit community. Paul's wife was very hospitipal as she fixed me dinner and asked me to help her work around the house and help with the kids. I thought it was refreshingly different and positive to stay at a house and be included in the everyday activities of their lives. Terry just happened to be driving up from Dallas Texas when I was there so we got to take this picture together.

My Cousin Rich and myself when I was leaving Indianapolis. I spent 3 days with Rich in his dorm room and slept on the dorm floor - it was tile. Rich and I played lots of basketball and I was able to help him get comfortable with starting school. He is attending Butler University and I saw that is is going to be quite the ladies man. He had several girls numbers with in the first 2 days of school. Way to go Rich. Just like Me. HA HA

If you are ever in Louisville Kentucky you must go to the ALI Center. It is a dedication to Muhammad Ali. I want to have the courage that Ali had and stand up for my own morals and keep my integrity in hard situations. He is a model of how humans should follow their own conscience as long as it doesn't interfere with another humans agency and pursuit of happiness or destroy the environment that people choose to live in.

Louisville Slugger Museum. Thanks Fitty.

NOLA Livin'

2008-09-25T20:03:00.007-06:00

My favorite location or city I have visited so far is New Orleans. Could that be because of my cousin Nels and Lauren? Could it be because of the "Soul?" It possible could be because I have heard so much about NOLA and always wanted to go there. Whatever the reason could be I felt the New Orleans was a great place to visit. It was vibrant, humid, interesting, exciting, and fun. With that being said, I would not like to live there though for an extended period of time. It is missing the diversity of seasons that I want to enjoy for me to live there.

These are called shotgun Houses. They pack them in but they are very long. I would love owning a house that had this architecture.

I wanted to see where Hurricane Katrina devastated the area. Nels took me around to the famous 9th ward. People ask why people live there and I wanted to see why. So many people complain that it is a wasted spot and shouldn't build anything there. I saw people just trying to get by. This is a picture of a rebuilt house in the background and in the foreground you can see what Katrina left of a house - the front steps. Before you complain of things you hear in the media I recommend seeing it with your own eyes.

Nels, Devin, and myself at the oldest Athletic Club in America. It was started back in the 1800's and of course is remodeled a little for convenience. Nels and I played about 30 games of Racquetball while I was there. On our first game I didn't know he called the play dead and I hit the ball right where a man doesn't want to be hit. He stood up and threw the ball at me with a look in his eye that I didn't enjoy seeing. Nels is a good cousin.

While I was in NOLA I wanted to hear real New Orleans Music. I didn't want to go to a concert or a formal event so Nels took me to a bar that every Wednesday the Tremors play. Below is a brief Video of what it was like. I wish I captured more on video.

New Orleans was full of life and not just humans.

Want to see what happened in my Aligator Scare?

2008-08-28T21:13:00.006-06:00

Below I posted an account of what happened to me while in the Bayou in New Orleans with an Alligator. I have since found a video of what I saw and experienced. So below are the instructions on how to view it. Remember this isn't my video bu similar to what happened to me. As you will see in the video you are not able to see the gator until it makes it's splash. Also remember that the gator in my experience didn't come up after me, but left us alone after making his splash. I never saw the gator because I was yelling as loud as I could looking the other direction cowering in the front of the canoe. So imagine being in the gators environment and that splash happening 2 feet from you that you will see in this short clip.

1: go to Black Water Movie

2: Click on the link "Enter Site"

3: Wait until options appear at the bottom of the page and click "Real Crocs"

4: You will see still a row of clips that you can watch. The last clip on the right is the splash that was similar to my experience.

Enjoy

Alligator Scare, worth reading.

2008-08-19T11:11:00.014-06:00

My NOLA trip still isn't over, but I must post this experience for all to read. I must say that it was the scariest moment I have ever been involved in. Nels and I decided to go get some nature in our systems. We went down to the Ranger Station on the Bayou and asked where we could rent canoes and they pointed us on down the road to Bayou Barn. We asked a couple questions of the Rangers on safety and what to do with alligators and went on our way. Luckily we arrived at the Bayou barn as the owner was bringing supplies because They are only open Thursday through Sunday due to poor conditions of the Canal. It cost $30 for 2 hours of paddling for the two of us. We put in at the dock and paddled away. The Canal was full of life: birds, turtles, spiders, fish, bugs, and gators. The canal canopy had been destroyed by Katrina hurricane so the Algae was thriving from the extra sunlight that reached the water.

The canal was classified as clogged. There were empty spots void of all plant life but the majority of our trip was in the brush swampy area. I would describe it as floating grass at times that we could push our way through instead of paddle. I felt very safe while starting out. One bit of information I forgot to mention so far was that back at the Bayou Barn was a picture of a 12 foot alligator taken June 29, 2008. The Gator was on the property of the Barn just 2 months earlier, so we were in his territory. After about a mile of pushing, paddling and enjoying mother nature we saw a bridge for cars to cross the canal in this bayou. It was probably 200 yards away. We had just entered a clear area of water so I stopped paddling for a while to relax and try to see some alligators again. After we had traveled about 50 yards with only my cousin paddling, (Cousin Nels was in the stern and I was at the bow of the canoe), I decided to start paddling again.

The instant I put my paddle in the water a huge explosion occurred about 2 feet off my left. When I say explosion I want you to imagine a 200 pound man doing a cannon ball in a pool and picture the splash. What ever was by us didn't like us being there and he made it known. Anyway, I yelled in fright. I luckily kept my composure and remembered I was in a tipsy canoe and the worst thing would be for me to go into the water. Nels meanwhile was calm and collective, at least it seemed to me, but he later revealed that he was terrified. So my heart is racing immediately following the splash and I look over and the depression of water had to be 6 feet across of displaced water. I then paddled and looked down again, what I saw was not too comforting. Imagine being in a lake and swimming as hard as you can in shallow water. What happens is that you kick up sediment from the bottom of the lake. Well when I looked down I could see a sediment trail of about 9 to 12 feet. He was big. We paddled gently toward the bridge we saw and got out gingerly trying not to provoke a monster. We were relying on the idea that our canoe looked like a 14 foot gator to protect us. Truth be told though, that when the splash happened I thought the gator was coming out after me.

I have never been more scared in my life then that moment. After we took a break on the bridge we had no choice but to go back, so without talking about how scared I was or Nels we went back. When we had passed the near disaster spot about 500 yards I was able to relax and enjoy the rest of the trip. When we got back to the Bayou Barn we asked question relating to our experience and they kindly said, "oh yea, you know that picture of that monster? His nest is right at the second bridge. Where did this splash happen." The splash happened right by the second bridge, so very possibly this gator was 9 to 12 feet long. I was not comforted by this thought. I have no idea for sure how big this gator was, but I do know that I got closer then I would have liked. I had no idea he was there either and that is how they hunt, very stealth like.

After the experience my cousin Nels was so kind to remind me, "The splash happened up by the bow by you Sam, so he was going for you. I'm glad he didn't get you because I would have had to call Aunt Linda and say you were coming home, but not all of you." I am not glad this experience happened but I am glad I am safe now and have a great story to tell. Here is what I think happened. This gator was minding his own business in his territory just relaxing under water. Then he sees this big thing come toward him on top of the water. The tour boats that go through there feed the gators chicken to get them to come to the surface, which is very dangerous for those who don't feed them because they aren't scared of humans anymore. As our canoe approached him I wasn't paddling and the moment I put my paddle in the water he felt threatened and took off. Since gators surface with there heads above water he retreated so fast that his head made a big splash like our hands forcefully push down on water while in a pool. So truth be told he was scared of us just as much as we were scared of him. I'm just glad he didn't want to fight though and took FLIGHT.

2008-08-17T14:20:00.004-06:00

This happened in NOLA(New Orleans, Louisiana). My time in NOLA hasn't ended yet, but I have to put this up, cause it might be one of the more crazy things I have done. I grabbed this alligators tail. I would say it was 4 and a half to 5 feet in length. My cousin Nels and I wanted to see alligators so we went hiking in the bayou. We saw one right on the trail and I couldn't get my camera out fast enough and it scurried away as we approached it. This guy was farther down the path. We got him to come toward us by using a stick to make some disturbance in the bushes.

He approached and HISSED. It was a true sign of dangerous animals. He eyed us for a bit and it was pretty exciting. We were calm and collective and felt pretty safe, who knows if we actually were. As he realized that the disturbance wasn't an afternoon snack he turned around. I always wanted to grab a wild alligator so I then decided to reach down and grab his tail. It didn't do much so I decided to once again grab it a little longer. He just wiggled away and under the water. It was quite the experience.

Friends in Texas

2008-08-17T13:55:00.005-06:00

Bryce Merrill, Jon Bjarnson, Sam. These are my Frisbee buds. We won many games while at BYU. They are great athletes and friends. Jon showed me around Dallas some and he is a good example of being real and genuine. Bryce has an ideal job for a single male who likes to be active, Recreation Coordinator at a local YMCA. I'm jealous dude. Am I looking stronger???

I don't have any pictures of our fun times together at Dave and Busters, but Terry took me there. We played Arcade Basketball Shooting, (I got to get me one of those things), Deal or No Deal, shoot 'em up games, racing games, and trivia. It was a fun time. Terry took me also to a great Mexican restaurant and a burger dive that was pretty good. Terry is also a great source of information. He is currently getting a MBA from Wharton University and I haven't taken any business classes so I was able to pick his brain and learn some things I have always wanted to learn. Terry and I met 10 years ago at BYU and will be friends forever.

Ryan Fitt, Taylor, Sam. Ryan is a great friend. We were roommates at BYU, and also have been through lots together. I love visiting him cause he motivates me to be better. He showed me a special type of work out that he does called Tabata and here is the link, Fitty Tabata. Some of you might say that 4 minutes of working out is nothing, and for those of you who say that, I challenge you to try it. I did and the video is coming soon. I was dead. Granted I don't work out much, but I am in a bit of shape. Ryan is a physical giant when it comes to working out and he loves this workout. Taylor is his girl right now. She was very kind and pretty. They get along real well and I loved getting to know her for a day before she went out of town. They live in Houston and Ryan and I loved watching the Olympics. We watched every Michael Phelps swim he had. The best was when they had the 4X100 Relay and Jason Lezak came from behind to win. Both of us were screaming and jumping up and down. I can say that I was as excited watching that as most memorable sport moments. In fact I think one quote that was said, because the French were talking trash to the US team was, "Whadya think of that you French Bitches."

Family in Texas

2008-08-17T12:36:00.005-06:00

Leslie and I went to Six Flags. I love roller coasters, except for the initial, "OH CRAP WHAT DID I JUST GET MYSELF INTO." Leslie is a dare devil too and the two of us went on the best coasters ever. Below are links to youtube videos of people who rode what we rode, so it isn't my video but you can see what I rode.

Texas Giant

Titan

Mr. Freeze Batman Flashback

Cousin Jo, Sam, Cousin Leslie. We ate ate Humperdinks. I thought that was only names in movies and fairy tales, but I guess Neverland really does exist. Jo took me to where she grew up and the area her and my dad played together when he visited her.

Uncle Barrington and Aunt Edith. Barry is my Grandma's brother. He gave me a virtual tour of our ancestry. I saw pictures of my Great Great Granddad who fought in the civil war. He then settled in Georgia and started a family. His soon was a furniture maker and Uncle B had some of that furniture that he made. Aunt Edith was tickled pink to see me when she got home. I haven't been able to spend much time with these two, but they sure did make me feel welcome. It is great to have family.

This is the first Abrams Street sign I have ever seen. So I included it in Family in Texas post.

Friends still in Utah

2008-08-17T12:21:00.007-06:00

This is Chantal. She is a great friend. She has been in Hawaii for the past year playing soccer and this was the first time I had seen her in about a year. It was a great reunion. She is going to Costa Rica this month to help build houses. I wish I could go with her. Chantal is always helping others and sacrificing her own time to be with those that need her. She leaves on a mission in October to Hawaii.

This is Marcy. Marcy is a friend that everyone should have. She is a great example of how to be loyal. She has always been there for me and I only hope that I have returned the level of friendship. Marcy is probably also the most devoted elementary teacher I have met. She is frequently a hour early to work and stays into the evening preparing for the next day. Her students will always remember her, even the problem kids. Marcy also has a contagious laugh.

Motorcycle Friends

2008-08-17T11:45:00.004-06:00

This was for Brady's Birthday. I happened to be in town and we went riding for 3 hours. It was a blast. His bike on the left is much bigger then mine. His is a 1700, I think, and mine is a 650. I still really enjoy driving mine that is for sure.

Travel Changes

2008-07-30T15:46:00.002-06:00

If you look at my actual map that I have made you will notice that it isn't looking like my planned map. Angie says she is complicating things, but I say she has made them more interesting. If you also notice on my actual map of my travels I have visited Logan a handful of times. Angie is the reason. We are becoming good friends and are very comfortable around each other. She took me shopping the other day, or should I say I asked her to come shopping, and we had a great time. I have never really been shopping for a whole day with a girl but Angie made it very comfortable for me as I felt very out of place. We both bought those black hats we are wearing together. Since I am still traveling, we are in an open relationship, and that means I will probably see more of Angie when I get done with the Southern and Mid-Eastern states.

My motorcycle had troubles in Logan after I was up in Yellowstone for a couple of days. I was planning on moving onto South Dakota, but I wanted to see Angie again so I came back, only 400 miles no biggie. It turns out that it was good that I did. I bought a battery for my bike 2 weeks ago and in Logan it went out. The battery was a dud. My bike also started leaking a little gas, not much, but enough to put the bike to rest after 3000 miles since July 3. In reality that is quite a long ways on a bike, but I didn't get all the way across on it. Just lots of driving to see Angie and other friends close by.

I will be flying to Dallas this Friday and continuing my travels through public transportation, hitch hiking, and any means possible. I anticipate being gone for another month before I decide to settle down for the month of September and finish and online class I need to start Grad School in the fall of 2009. After that I plan on traveling to Central America for a couple of months and learning Spanish. Of course, as I am well known for, plans can change.

Yellow Stone / Zen / Grand Teton

2008-07-29T02:10:00.007-06:00

I had planned on seeing a best buddy Zen and his wife Monique in Kansas City during this trip. Since I have been in Utah longer then planned it turned out great, because Zen was chillin up in Island Park Idaho near Yellowstone National Park. Everything worked out great. His whole family was there and they welcomed me into their cabin for 3 days, (Brave Souls). This is a picture of Monique, Sam, Zen, Britney, Brooke, and Zen's mom Teresa, with Jeff holding Weston in the back. In the background is Old Faithful. If you want to know more about geysers follow this link: Old Faithful Zen has a migraine in this picture and doesn't normally look this angry.

This was quite the treat. We wanted to see some awesome views in Yellowstone and we had heard that The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone was worth seeing. We hiked 2 miles round trip, so not much, to get to this point and the pictures that follow show how immaculate and powerful water is. This canyon was carved with water and made it possible for us to enjoy. Picture at Lower Brink Falls: Sam, Monique, Zen Mayhugh.

View looking down Lower Brink Falls. Directly to my right is Lower Falls. 308 feet down, twice as high as Niagara Falls. I had a difficult time getting to the edge due to my fear of heights, but I inched my way to the edge and looked over. It is weird because I have thoughts go into my mind of, "I wonder what it would be like to go over the falls." Not my kind of thought I want at that time.

Looking Straight down over Lower Brink Falls on the Yellowstone River. 308 feet down.

View back up the valley from Artist Point. You can see the Lower Falls in the background. The Grand Canyon of Yellowstone was worth the time to see.

This is another falls in Yellowstone and I don't know the name of it. I live in a beautiful world and I am trying my best to appreciate the beauty. I took pictures of some

A hot pot, I think called Crystal Springs. Some springs humans can swim in and enjoy themselves, unfortunately if you swam in this spring you wouldn't enjoy it.

About 6 feet from a Bison, commonly called Buffalo. Probably not the smartest decision, but I felt safe. He was eating grass and staying occupied. I named this one Pooky.

Zen's brother in-law owned a sweet boat and took us out on it. I had never attempted wake boarding so I thought I would try it. I got very frustrated with myself. I never ended up making it up before my forearms were so tired of holding on. I want to try again.

Grand Teton National Park. I arrived at a poor picture taking time of the day as the sun was setting behind the Teton's. I thought those mountains were some of the more majestic mountains I have seen in my life. I wish my pictures could do them justice. I put my bike, Shyla, in the foreground so those who want to see what I'm traveling on can see it. I don't pack much at all.

Another view of the Grand Tetons. During this ride it was approaching dusk and I was a little worried of traveling in the dark. I usually have made it to a nice place on the side of the road or someones couch by that time. I was traveling through the park to make it to Logan UT and I wanted to get there that evening. I drove through the night and although it was Summer I become colder then I had experienced even in Winter. I never felt colder in my life. At times when I have been cold I could jump around or become aerobic, but while driving 400 miles on my motorcycle I was stationary the entire time. The cool thin mountain air cooled my core temperature I'm sure by a couple degrees. I think this because my judgement was impaired and driving became more difficult. I just wasn't thinking rationally. The ride was a trade off for seeing the beautiful country and freezing.

Utah crew

2008-07-28T02:07:00.002-06:00

Three of my close friends: Nate and Jon Orgill, myself, and Rich Summers. All three of these guys I met freshman year. In fact Rich and Jon were probably the first two guys I met my freshmen year at Orientation. We bonded instantly. We love to laugh, play sports, and talk about our unlucky dating lives. Rich is the only one married. This trip I have been taking I am trying to see my closest college friends and I have 4 more to go out of 14.

This is Randy my roommate that I lived with the last year. He and I also like talking about our bad dating luck. He is a great dancer and taught me some cool battle moves to get the crowd yelling in my favor. In fact, the last dance we went to, I was challenged to a battle by a girl. I agreed and she picked the music. A huge circle formed and the two of us took turns showing our stuff. I was hoping Randy would have helped me out but after we finished he said I was handling it just fine.

Thank you face shield

2008-07-27T02:19:00.001-06:00

Self Explanatory

Bridge Jumping

2008-07-18T19:48:00.011-06:00

Caleb, John, Jason, Alex and myself went bridge jumping today. I go because I am terrified of high places and I know of no better way then, "Just Doing It." I watched all 4 climb to the top and I followed, and they had close to no idea of how much I hate looking down. I don't hate many things in life but I get dizzy looking down. Any way, I just decided to not think about it and went up. I sat down at the top and they noticed I was shaking pretty bad. I watched them jump and I followed. I went up again and jomped. I have nothing on tape of me but the following videos are my crazy friends. I did do a back flip but not on tape.

Caleb being Caleb

Probably the coolest picture ever. Jason is Constipated. John is bowing to the great crouching tiger hidden dragon. Caleb actually has abs, and I'm me.

John Abrams, Caleb Stott, Alex, Jason Merideth: probably 30 to 35 feet.

The feeling in the air when we are together. FUN

Picture one

Picture 2

Picture 3

The Videos

John, Caleb, Alex, Jason: Caleb says if you listen closely, "This is the dumbest thing I have ever done." Caleb, "you have done dumber."

Alex, Caleb, John, Jason doing front flips

John Abrams

Jason Merideth

Alex couldn't flip without a twist. He says it ups the difficulty.

4000+ Miles

2008-07-13T20:42:00.009-06:00

I left Provo June 7th. Since that departure I have traveled more then 4000 miles. I have seen some great things. Below are links to different post that I have written about my trip.

http://abramssam.blogspot.com/2008/07/start-of-motorcycle-trip.html

http://abramssam.blogspot.com/2008/07/vancouver-washington.html

http://abramssam.blogspot.com/2008/07/richland-washington.html

http://abramssam.blogspot.com/2008/07/boise.html

http://abramssam.blogspot.com/2008/07/victor-idaho.html

http://abramssam.blogspot.com/2008/07/logan-utah.html

http://abramssam.blogspot.com/2008/07/utah-county.html

Utah County

2008-07-12T22:50:00.000-06:00

I was lucky enough to be in town for the Spring, or summer, Ultimate Tourney. I loved playing with my team. The main players were Clayton sitting in front with Gary behind him, Joseph in the chair, Vance with his thumb up and Eric in front of him. Terrance without a shirt is a good buddy but didn't play with us in this Tourney.

My Family: Laura Gilbert and Jason Merideth.

Logan Utah

2008-07-10T21:45:00.004-06:00

I stopped in Logan on my way to Provo for a day. I had a really fantastic day. I was visiting Angie Dodd. We went to the aquatic center and swam. I got lots of sun. Then we went to go cliff jumping. One of the things I am hesitant about is heights. I did jump though, it just took a little more then anticipated. The best part was spending time with Angie.

Victor Idaho

2008-07-09T21:32:00.001-06:00

July 9th I traveled to Victor Idaho which is near Grand Teton National Park and Jackson WY. I went to see Nate Godfrey and his Family. I really enjoyed Victor also. It reminded me of Liberty Lake WA where I grew up. It was settled in a valley and it was very green. It had a small town atmosphere. Nate has been doing well for himself starting his own painting company. His wife Jen was very hospitable and I enjoyed talking to the two of them. I went to college with Nate and he was on my same floor freshman year.

Boise

2008-07-07T21:04:00.003-06:00

Driving my motorcycle is proving to be more tiresome then anticipated. I started out with a backpack but it acted like a parachute so I took it back to REI and bought a tank bag. It gives me just as much space as the backpack did and also gives me resting capabilities. As I drive I can lean on the bag. So I left Richland on July 7th and traveled to Boise Idaho where I stayed with Matt Chandler and his family. I thought Boise would be a great place to live. I liked the small town feel but also enough community involvement to have a rich life. Matt was doing an Internship for his law degree there. An added bonus was finding out that Adam Blacker was also in Boise doing his Optometry internship. Adam, Matt and I all went to college together since our freshman year. Also in Boise were some friends from my favorite place in Provo, Santa Barbara apts. Tyler and Rachel Johnson, and then Andy Wycherly. I love seeing my friends.

Sam, Adam, Riza, Sherri, Michelle, James, Alyssa, Matt

Adam Blacker, Sam Abrams, Matt Chandler

Sam, Tyler and Rachel Johnson, Andy Wycherly

Richland Washington

2008-07-06T20:55:00.004-06:00

I drove to Richland Washington on July 6th. I spent the evening with Rex and Sharolyn Perkes. Unfortunately I didn't get a picture with them. I remembered after I left. I did get a chance to visit my Great Aunt Nance, and also my dad's best friend Bill Barr pictured below. At the Perkes house we played a competitive game of Acquire and I got my ego crushed. Rex mopped the floor with me. Bill and I went on a walk along the Columbia River where him and my dad grew up.

Start of Motorcycle Trip

2008-07-06T10:43:00.003-06:00

I drove my bike up to Cusiak WA and spent 2 days with Will Maus and his extended family. They made me feel like family, at least made me feel very welcome at their family reunion. I was able to play in the water, eat great food, beat Sandi Goodlander at Acquire, and meet some great friends. My favorite part was riding the tube behind the jet ski with Brandon and Tren, both 8. They exhibited some tough attitudes. Tren was yelling, "Faster, Faster," and Brandon was yelling, "This is awesome, this is awesome." They were both laughing the entire time and I couldn't help but to laugh too. I was holding either one of them up on the tube and one hand on a handle, so I was getting a workout, but I loved it. Basically, I had a great time, and the Dod family are one of the best.

Dodd family reunion

Will Maus and Sam

Vancouver Washington

2008-06-27T22:21:00.000-06:00

I went to Vancouver in June. I loved it. I watched a game of the NBA finals with my Uncle Lloyd. I also spent lots of time with Christian and his family. It is always good times with Christian. We watched Tiger Woods play an unbelievable game of gold for the US open. When he made his crucial putts I think the house 4 down from him heard us. We were very excited.

Trip Logistics

2008-06-24T17:59:00.003-06:00

For now you can click on the link to the right that says, Pictures of Trip and see recent pictures of my trip.

For a Detailed Map of where I have been click on Map of Trip.

I will be posting my thoughts in normal posts that are just typed up and posted in my blog. I am going to make a list of things I have done and put a link that you can read about specific topics.

I will be setting up an email list of those people who would like an email from me when I update my blog with pictures and info of my trip. If you would like to be added to this list please send me your email at abramssam@gmail.com

June Trip

2008-05-12T08:08:00.002-06:00

I will be leaving Provo on June 4th and traveling the western states for the whole month. I have made a rough map and if you click this link then you can see my travels. If you are along the way I would love to see you. Just let me know.

http://maps.google.com/maps/ms?hl=en&ie=UTF8&msa=0&msid=104643913427548834394.00044c19d9735f0ae7b14&ll=40.178873,-119.970703&spn=17.468623,41.132813&z=5

Iraq

2008-05-07T10:56:00.002-06:00

U.S. will need years to recover from blunder in Iraq

By G. Don Gale

Published: May 3, 2008

The so-called "War on Terrorism" is in its sixth year. What a tragedy! So far, it has not been a war against terrorism so much as a war against humanity, a war against common sense, a war against reason, a war against goodness.

The war in Iraq will go down in history as the worst tactical blunder this nation ever made. At least, let's hope we are never again so misguided, mistaken and misused.

American taxpayers spend $12 billion a month to pay for the war. Think what we could do with $12 billion a month: reduce the debt, improve schools, fix roads and bridges, remedy the health-care system, help the helpless, redirect our energy dependence, clean up our air and water, stem the abuses of our economic system ... not just one of these things, but all of them.

Sadly, most living Americans don't have to pay for the war. We leave it to those brave men and women who are called upon to represent us in the war zone. The rest of us make no sacrifices at all, allowing Congress and the administration to borrow billions and push the sacrifices onto our children and grandchildren.

I take it back. We do pay a price, a hidden price. Largely as a result of the war, the dollar has lost value around the world. You see it every time you fill your tank with gasoline. The price of oil is pegged to the dollar, and when the dollar is weak, the price of oil goes up, followed by the price of gasoline. The same is true for clothing, electronics, automobiles and other products from overseas.

Politicians don't bother much about high prices. They like it when bad economic news replaces war news on the front pages of American newspapers. Leaders prefer dealing with the economy instead of the war, because they have no answers for Iraq and Afghanistan. If you believe they do, you haven't been listening.

Some say they will bring the troops home. It sounds easy. But this administration has compounded the problem by sending more than 100,000 civilians to Iraq — almost as many civilians as military personnel. You can withdraw a military force, but you can't leave stranded 100,000 American civilians ... or ask them to find their way home from a country devoid of normal air, sea or land transportation. The transition from war to peace will take time. Contrary to scare propaganda from those who support the war, most knowledgeable observers say Iraq will not collapse when we leave.

A challenge even more difficult will be repairing the collateral damage done to the United States by the misadventure in Iraq. This administration sacrificed American values in its efforts to justify serial blunders. For example, the pressure we put on unwilling allies turned many against us.

What we did at Abu Graib, Guantanamo and other prison camps was a travesty. Stories that came out of those places should make every American sick to his or her stomach, just as experiences there made many of the military personnel involved sick to their stomachs. How can anyone justify imprisoning 10-year-old children to put pressure on their fathers, as we did in Iraq? And how can any good American accept the torture condoned by this administration?

Officials also encouraged government agencies to violate personal freedoms of American citizens — freedoms guaranteed by the Constitution. This, too, was calculated to justify the incredible abuses of reason that played a part in starting and continuing the war effort.

It's astounding how much damage has been done in five years. It will take many times that many years for America to regain the moral high ground it once held ... to become once again the city on the hill to which others look for leadership, guidance and example.

The marvelous men and women of our military forces deserve the highest praise, honor and reward. They did everything asked of them — and then some. But those who asked so much of so few — leaders in the administration, Congress, and the media — deserve only criticism. They led the nation along a perilous path.

And those of us who allowed it to happen should accept not only responsibility but a share of both the burden and the blame.

G. Donald Gale is president of Words, Words, Words, Inc. He is a military veteran and a longtime student of history and current affairs. E-mail: dongale@words3.com

Recent Pictures

2008-04-30T09:21:00.001-06:00

http://abramssam.blogspot.com/2008/03/pictures.html

3 Links I encourage watching

2008-04-22T13:19:00.002-06:00

http://www.mapsofwar.com/ind/imperial-history.html
Picture view of how governments have spread through out the world.

http://www.mapsofwar.com/ind/history-of-religion.html
Picture view of how religions have spread though out the world.

I enjoyed comparing the two. It shows how governments spread religion. It could mean that most governments grow in the name of religion. That can put a sour taste in the mouth of some people about God and religion. The truth is out there though.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17722026
I detailed explanation of geographical, demographical, and religious reasons the war is being fought in Iraq. VERY INFORMATIVE.

More Mormon Democrats

2008-04-22T11:39:00.003-06:00

I strongly feel that more members of my Church should lean toward the democratic political aspect of life and less toward the republican side. I for one am sick of our foreign policy. The Bush doctrine is so out of whack from what I believe as a member of the church.

Bush Doctrine:

1. America is at war with Terrorism. This war demands that America deal with state sponsors of terrorism as well as terrorist networks.
2. Attack is the best form of defence. America needs to act pre-emptively to prevent threats from materialising.
3. America needs to preserve its freedom to act independently. Global bodies are too slow-moving to deal with terrorist threats.
4. Success breeds success. The bold use of American power will encourage potential friends to join America and potential enemies to abandon their evil ways.
5. The best solution to global jihadism is to export democracy. America needs to abandon its deal with authoritarian regimes and encourage democracy the world over.

The above basically says, "We will do whatever we want whenever we want, and we don't care the consequences. We will force our ideas on other."

As a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints I feel I have the truth of the gospel. I feel I belong to a church that has a way to be extremely happy. If followed I know people in this life will have such a more fulfilled life.

As a nation we also enjoy a great government. We are not a true democracy but we do have a representative democracy. We elect others to make choices for us because we have to be involved in our own lives. These people that we have elected have made policies that I think are hurting our nation.

As a Church we send out representatives to teach the gospel. We do not teach by force and we want to share our message with everyone. We really care about others so we want to share what we believe is the answer to so many questions. As a nation we really care about others. We really want to share what we have found to be a great government. Unfortunately with the above Bush Doctrine we go about this with force. Instead of being a symbol of freedom to other countries we have become tyrants ourselves forcing democracy on other countries to benefit ourselves. I confidently feel that if we stayed out of other people's business and lead by example that countries without democracies would cry out to their dictators and kings and rulers to step down and create a democracy. They would see what we enjoy and frequently take for granted. Yes we would run into problems of genocide and gross actions against humans. I strongly feel that is where our army should be.

I, for one, think Iraq had nothing to do with wanting to better the lives of the Iraqi people. There are plenty of authoritarian regimes: China, North Korea, Venezuela, Burma, Russia, tons of ‘em. The reason we attacked Iraq had more to do with securing the oil- ousting Saddam and perhaps creating a democracy were side bonuses.

Mormons believe in free choice. So why do so many Mormons support political candidates that want to force ideas, economies, and other policies upon people. Why do Mormons believe that if you are a democrat that you are not a member in good standing? I think this is ridiculous. I am a strong supporter in free choice. I think the best gift I have as a human is the ability to choose, so I disagree vehemently with our nations attitude that, "we know what is best for people and we will force it upon them."

After September 11, the entire world looked to America and wanted to see how we responded. Shouldn't the outcome be an indicator of the correctness of our method of response. Needless to say, the world is not happy with how we handled things, so why don't we change? Why don't we change our methods of foreign policy? We need change!

I urge people who read this to become very familiar with our current political race. I urge them to use their vote and more importantly their voice, to promote whatever they think is right. If you disagree with anything I have said above then please let me know. If it is a factual error please let me know. If it is a difference of opinion I would love to hear your side of things.

2008-04-21T14:06:00.004-06:00

Sam, Uncle Paul(Not really that tall), Cousin Nels, Grandma Jean

I went to California this last week for my spring break. I have a great family.

Pictures

2008-03-30T09:10:00.005-06:00

Rock Band with the brothers

The whole Family, except mom, for a great FHE, plus Caleb Stott, basically part of the family.

Caleb and Joe in West Yellowstone.

John Abrams, Jenn Fuhs, Steve Fuhs, Torres, Uncle Paul, Sam, Manuel, Joe, Danny Smith and kids

Joe Abrams, Steve Fuhs, Jenn Fuhs, Sam Abrams, Caleb Stott, John Abrams: West Yellowstone

John, Joe, Sam at Tucanos restaurant for Sam's birthday.

Sea World Behind the scenes. My Cousin Jenn is a whale trainer.

Sam touching a 9000 pound whale.

Pictures of Trip

2008-03-24T18:00:00.002-06:00

http://abramssam.blogspot.com/2008/07/start-of-motorcycle-trip.html

Grizzly Falls: I tried climbing as high as I could get but it was too slippery.

Clark Fork River: This is where Joe and I put in on our tubes. Kings Canyon National Park

This is what we ended up going down. We got some air. Good thing we can swim.

Yosmite National Park: The most scenic view I have ever seen. Joe and I in front of Half Dome.

Mt. St. Helens: Erupted in 1980. West Side of Washington. The sheer power of the earth is amazing.

Bill Barr, John, Joe, and myself. In front of the mud pit at the annual Mud Run in San Diego.

Joe, John, Uncle Paul, Sam: Finish line of the mud run. Uncle Paul walked the entire thing. He got to the finish and looked behind him and saw some large woman. He wanted to be last so he waited for them.

Joe, John, Allison, Sam, Steve, Jenn: Cousins spending time together.

Sam lifting a Tacoma with one arm.

"That's what she said" General Sherman: the biggest tree in the world.
Jeff Baer and Sam: One of my favorite mission companions. We played 18 holes of frisbee golf and loved it.
A real human being. It was at an exhibit called Body World 3. The exhibit plastinizes bodies so people can view them and learn from them. I recommend it to everyone. I love it.
You can't see it, but it was awesome. A brown bear with her two cubs. It was awesome. The cubs were wrestling, climbing trees, and tumbling everywhere. Oh to be a kid, (Good thing I am).
Crater Lake Oregon. Unfortunately there was too much snow to drive the rim. We did get a beautiful view though.
Richard, Joe, Anna, Sam: At a waterfall in Liberty Lake. I love being with my cousins.

Summit Talent Show

2008-02-01T14:56:00.000-07:00

This is 7 Summit Faculty members dancing on stage in front of 100 people. 80 of which are students that we teach and deal with. This was thought up by Brian Robinson and myself, and put together in a matter of 2 hours. We did the best we could to pull this off. I laugh ever time I watch this video. I didn't feel I did my best after the performance, but since watching it I have changed my mind that it looks just fine. I hope you enjoy. We had other people watching that didn't work at Summit. During the performance another teacher from another school that was watching asked, "These are your teachers?" His look on his face was that of confusion and fear.

High School Football revisted. Thanksgiving 2007

2007-12-19T08:10:00.000-07:00

I have been trying to play football every Saturday. It hasn't been happening every week, but when we do play it sure is fun. One thing I wish I learned growing up was how to tackle. I didn't play football in Junior High or High School so when I play with the guys more runners make me look like a "would be tackler." Jason Robisch there in the middle in the blue Shorts is one hard dork to bring down. He played center on our High School State Championship team. One one play was a Running back screen for him, and when he gets steam, LOOK OUT. John was his first blocker so I engaged John to try to, "Get off the block," and tackle Jason. I wasn't getting off the block so I pushed John back as hard as I could and since Jason isn't twinkle toes and not very shifty he ran right into the back of John and knocked him over. That was effective in getting "off the block." I then jumped on Jason and wrapped up, but he dragged me another couple yards before finally going down. In this picture is John Abrams, Will Maus, Sam Abrams, Jason Robisch, Jesse Sandberg, and Chad Sevegny.

Shyla and my travels

2007-12-11T14:58:00.001-07:00

Shyla took me many places this last fall. I tried getting a picture that was wooded on both sides and turned in the distance leaving the viewer in suspense "WHERE WOULD I BE GOING NEXT." I passed many prime spots but didn't stop due to a huge smile on my face and hugging the turns.

Unfortunately Shyla also got me into some misfortune. As I was traveling about 70 in a 35 weaving in and out of traffic I was pulled over. You can imagine the thoughts that went through my head as I sat upon this fast bike, and no I didn't think of out running the cops, that would be stupid. I basically just thought, CRAP! and maybe a couple other key words.

In October my cousin Jenn got married to sniper Steve in San Diego and we got to go surfing while down there.

Sam and Joe

My cousins Anna and Rich

Rich and Ben my brother

My mother, grandma and Brothers

2007-10-04T10:39:00.000-06:00

Mom- She is working at Greenacres Middle school for the gazillionith year. That doesn't mean she is old though. She teaches PE. Since her husband died, my dad, she has torn apart the house remodeling the house. I love what she has done with the place. She picks a room and finishes it and then moves onto the next room. She also put in a new deck in the backyard and spends most of her nights out on it during the summer. I think it is great that my mother has found a hobby. She put a movie theater in our basement. A real nice HD projector with movie theater seats to compliment it. The sound system is average but sounds great. In her bedroom she put a jet bath tub in and hasn't used it as much as I would be using it if it were in my house. She still gets teased a lot by her boys, including me. One of the best experiences was when she wanted a roll of carpet moved that was real heavy and she just told me to pick it up and move it to the basement. I picked it up with the help of her friend Trudy and we got to the backyard and it started to unroll and get awkward to carry so we dropped it. She came running out of the garage saying, "come on pick it up it can't be that heavy." She acted like she could do it herself. So she decided to help in the effort, but you know when people try to help but do more hindering then helping, well my mother got the back end and got it to her knees and then fell over on top of it cause all of us to drop it again. Needless to say, it was something you might need to see to understand the humor of the situation. My mom loves her boys so much. She comes and visits us often. She even loves me enough to loan me money for a motorcycle, which is something she didn't even want me to have, but since she loves me, she said ok to a loan.

Grandma- Grandma Sarah. She lives in Post Falls Idaho which is 10 minutes from my mother in Liberty Lake Washington. She is 91 years old and still walks around on gravel with her bare feet. During the picture taken above she didn't have shoes on when she came outside and said she didn't care about it, what a tough lady. My grandma makes the best Apple Pie, a recipe that I still need to learn.

Ben- Ben lives in Springville Utah with his Wife Erin, and boys Tyler and Nathan. Tyler just turned 3 and it is weird to think that I am not even married yet, so my kids are going to be at least 5 years younger then Tyler. He sure will be the old cousin in the family. Ben Teaches with me at Summit High and does an excellent job teaching Biology and Physics. He has many hands on activities for the kids to participate in and they enjoy it. He is also very good with the kids and doesn't have to manage his class that often, because he sets it up to where they manage themselves. Ben thinks he is the best at sports, but is lacking in many. HA HA

John: John is the risk taker in the family and owns 4 houses. He is going to school in Provo at BYU. He is studying business. He has grand ideas on how to get rich. I wish I had his ideas rolling around in my head but I don't. John doesn't communicate very well and his favorite saying when the family asks about his interests and activities and why he doesn't date is, "don't worry about it." As if we were worrying Johnny?! I like having John around Provo because it is so fun. We watch UW football games together, play sports and go dancing. We have a good relationship that is for sure.

Joe- Joe is more like me then the other brothers. He is because he is real smart, good looking, girls like him, and plays all the sports with me. Right now we are on the same Frisbee team, football, soccer, volleyball, Tennis, and soon to be more I hope. Joe just bought a Subaru Outback that I think was a very smart purchase and he is also happy with it. I am trying to get him to buy a motorcycle now so we can go cruising together, but he hasn't pulled the trigger. I am also very glad Joe is around me living and playing. I had a great moment 2 Saturdays ago at city Frisbee because Frisbee has been my sport the last 4 years while my brothers haven't played with me at all. Joe is playing with me and practicing and Joe and I dominated one point where the two of us worked the disk all the way down the field. It was one of those moments where your family just wasted the other team and you felt liked you owned the field. I loved it because I did it with Joe.

Shyla: I got a girl

2007-08-20T19:00:00.000-06:00

You might be surprised. You might say, "No Way." It actually happened though. Sammy got a girl. I am now married to Shyla. She is blue and black, not from getting beaten though. She does all the beating off the line. She doesn't get mad like other woman and red line at 6000 RPM's. Shyla can push the limit and go up to 10500 RPM's before she needs to be calmed down and pampered. Since I was small I kept this secret of my desire to get a girl named Shyla, but I finally did it. I found a Suzuki SV650s. It is a 2002 with only 1308 miles on it. Well, when I bought it 2 weeks ago it had that many miles on it, and since I have put almost 800 miles on it in two weeks. I bought a helmet on ebay also. I haven't taken the bike that fast yet either. Only isang daan miles per hour(I said the speed in tagalog so my mother wouldn't understand). The plan is for all of my college buddies to own a bike that we can cruise on when we go on our yearly trips.

So this is my Shyla. I am very happy with her. I am endorsed to ride her. I usually wear a long sleeve shirt made for biking and have a Dakine backpack on my back. I am looking for a nice pair of gloves.

This is my Shyla in the back of Monty my truck. I loaded it up and drove it down to Utah because it was a far ride and also I needed get my truck down here. My nickname at my school is truck and for good reason. I am loving both of my purchases. I only have one complaint about Monty though and that is I spent $900 on gas during my travels. With Shyla though I get 50+ mpg. I can't complain about that. Pretty soon I might start complaining about Shyla and the fact that I will get cold in the coming months.

Home

2007-08-20T17:51:00.000-06:00

I taught summer school this year. I enjoyed it very much. Our class size were around 7 and the kids were more relaxed then usual. I then went home for three weeks. I went to work while home. In our house my mother decided to upgrade our basement into a theater room. I did some work on it, but not all. The carpet is very PLUSH. The projector is an HD capable projector. The sound system is a 5.1 800 Watt Sony. It was great hooking the xBox 360 up to it and playing Rainbow Six Vegas with Will Maus. That game kicks butt.

Unfortunately I didn't take as many pictures this trip. I wish I would have taken a picture of the 700 pounds of roots that Joe and I dug up out of the front lawn from a huge pine tree growing for the past 30 years. The roots started to make the grass not grow that well because of lack of rowing room for the grass roots. It basically tore up the lawn. It was quite fun and I learned that Joe is one smart and strong puppy. Joe almost tore the biggest root out of the ground by himself with me prying it up with a 2 inch thick pry bar my dad kept around.

probably gotten rid of enough junk to furnish and clothe a small village. Well, a small village of size 10. We didn't have tons of stuff but enough to show that my mother has been living in that house since 1978. It was interesting going through my fathers I also think that we are on our last "sort through the garage" session. We have filled the garage up several times since my dad died with junk from the house. We would then carefully place the things we wanted back in the house and get rid of the junk we didn't want. We have possessions also. It wasn't as hard as I thought it would be going through things he kept around. The interesting part that I found was I didn't have an affinity toward the junk that I thought I would have. I was able to get rid of most of the junk my dad kept that was memories to him, but not of importance to me. For instance, my father kept a shaving cup for face soap that he had from the old days when there wasn't face foam that came out of a can. I saw it on the first sort through of the garage, but went through again this last trip the possessions I am keeping and was able to rationally toss it this time. I will include some pictures below.

Rich and I went to the coast of Washington in my Aunt's convertible. We both were trying to pretend to be asleep in the picture but it didn't work as planned. We left late at night and slept under the star with no tent by the ocean. We woke up very early due to the rain, (Rich didn't sleep that well, but I slept soundly in my REI Bivy Sac.) We then went to Rialto Beach in Washington. It was where my Uncles ashes were scattered. I loved the trip and in fact I think the beach is just breath taking.

Rich on the beach.

Hole in the wall on the right side of the picture.

Hole in the Wall. When I see this I think of Goonies the movie. Just remember Goonies never say DIE.

Sam at a very special place. This is where my uncle was scattered. I came during the time when his ashes were scattered, but had to turn back due to time restraints. I made a specific effort to make it to this place this year. It will be two years ago in October when he passed away and this is called Abrams Point. At least by the Abrams. My Uncle Robb is a great man. HE REALLY KNEW HOW TO LIVE LIFE.

Resume

2007-07-29T12:31:00.002-06:00

(Not formatted correctly due to blogger interface)

Samuel J. Abrams

108 N Wright (509)255-9277

Liberty Lake WA 99019 abramssam@gmail.com

abramssam.blogspot.com

Experience
	Substitute Math/Science Teacher Logan, UT Logan School District 2008-2009 § A highly requested substitute in order to continue teaching curriculum and ensure zero teaching days lost for instructor § Met the needs of AP Stats, Chemistry, Math, Physics, and Biology teachers by following course syllabus and teaching method
	Math Teacher Orem, UT Alpine Summit High School 2005-2008 § Inspired at-risk youth/custody of the state students who struggled with basic arithmetic to become proficient in Algebra § Adapted to weekly changes in student enrollment by accepting new students and leaving no child behind § Participated in and managed after school activities that engaged the students in the culture of their town § Developed positive relationships with students by genuinely caring and being a trustworthy role model
	Assistant Teacher Orem, UT Mountain View High School 2001-2004 § Involved in 4 classes daily and worked one-on-one with struggling students § Leader of a daily study skills class that focused on student attitude and work ethic § Improved student skills and motivation for learning guided me to a career teaching mathematics and at-risk youth
Education
	Brigham Young University Provo, UT § BA in Math Education 2005 § Top 15% in the nation on PRAXIS II test for mathematics § Extensively enrolled in chemistry and physics classes in addition to bachelor degree § Member of BYU Mascot Team, Break Dance Team, and Frisbee Team

Goals

2007-07-29T10:14:00.001-06:00

Travel: I want to touch 6 of the 7 continents in my life time. My first large adventure I would like to make will be Australia and New Zealand. The only continent I don't care too much to make it too is Antarctica because there just aren't any people there. I want to travel to learn about cultures.

Education: I plan on going back to school to get a masters in IO Psychology. It is the study of how to maximize human potential mainly in the work force. I feel I would be great in this area. I want to eventually work for a firm that I can travel with and enter different businesses to help them function to potential. Other subjects I want to study include the following, but not limited to.

Spanish
Guitar
Piano
Voice/Singing
Photography
Drawing/Painting

I feel that life long learning are the keys to today and the future.

Family: Marry Angie Dodd. I will try to be the best I can be for her and our children. I will have goals of trying to be the best listener rather then talker.

Physical: Run a Marathon, climb Mt. Rainer,

Family

2007-07-19T08:47:00.005-06:00

Cousins: Abrams Side of the cousins. Missing are Nels, Thomas, Peter and wife Shannon, Whitney's Husband John.
Anna, Richard, John, Joe, Ben, Whitney, Sam, Jenn, Ali, Steve.

Aunt Kathleen: Anna and Richard

Uncle Robb and Aunt Susan: Peter, Whitney, Thomas, Nels

Uncle Paul and Aunt Anna: Jenn & Steve, Ali

Chip and Linda: Ben, Sam, John, and Joe.

I LOVE MY COUSINS

COUSIN
Jenn: She works at Sea World. I have visited her every summer for the past 6 years except 2007. She can cook marvelous dinners, and dances like a pro.

Grandma Jean. Lived in Richland Washington Most of her life. Raised my father to "theenk" for himself. She is a very smart woman.

Grandma Sarah. Raised my mother to be tough as nails. Lived in the Pacific Northwest most of her life.

Mom and Dad: Great Parents. Frequently let me know they loved me. Frequently supported me in my activities. Frequently encouraged me to go after what I wanted. Great Listeners. Sometimes funny. Mom forgets everything. Very athletic. My father died in 2005. It was very hard on me. It still is hard at times. I miss my father. I have grown very close to my mother since his passing.

Uncle Paul and Aunt Anna. My dad's brother. My second mom. They take really good care of me.

Brothers: Ben(29), Me(27), Joe(23), John(25)

BROTHER
Ben, Erin, Tyler, and Nathan: Ben works with me at Summit High School. Erin works at home and watches the nephews. She is a great mom. Ben likes to be outside and spend time with his family. I enjoy talking to both Ben and Erin. They have been a great support for me.

Thomas, My cousin. Currently he is in New York finishing Law School. Thomas loves to learn and read. I value his opinions greatly.

Alison throwing the first pitch out at a Padres Game honoring Student Athletes.

Richard and Anna. Rich is a stud basketball player and Anna can dance with the best of them.

John and Whitney Hupf with Caden.

Shannon and Peter with Kids

Washington Trip

2007-07-08T02:01:00.001-06:00

Christian and I played 9 games of Racquetball in 2 days while I visited him in Vancouver Washington. Out of the 9 games I only won one, but I still am stubborn enough to say, "I'm better then him."

Christian, Heather(his wife) and me outside of Nike Headquarters. I was privileged enough to go shopping at the Nike Employee store and got some killer deals on clothes. Christian and I also went to several Bike stores because both of us are dreaming of owning a Suzuki SV 650 S. I don't have a wife so I'm more likely to get one right???

This is Christian and I at Burgerville. It is a great fast food place. Fresh berry Shakes and huge Walla Walla Sweet Onion Rings. The Rings are seasonal and they started Friday but the manager told us to come in on Thursday and sample some. We showed up but he wasn't there so we asked if we could taste test some. The employees thought we were actual taste testers and treated us like royalty. Lets just say we got our fill of Rings for free.

Christian and I play 3 rounds of golf while I was there. Unfortunately I also lost in that sport also. Christian just beats me in everything, Darn. I'm with my Uncle Lloyd on the right and he is real good at golf. He shot 2 over par.

This is Eric Pfiefer and I at his place in Vancouver. Eric is currently a pharmacist and is in the process of building a beautiful log cabin over looking the Columbia. The Lucky dawg. I grew up with Eric my whole life and even though I hadn't seen him in a couple years, it was like the two of us didn't miss a beat. I was real happy I got to see him. Hoopfest 2007 in Spokane Washington. I played with my high school buddies, Jeff Mock, Jason Robisch, and Jesse Sandberg. We had fun, but we weren't really any good. Jason is in Yellow, Jesse is in Red and I'm in white and blue shorts. We lost then won 2 then lost the next day.

Hoopfest 2007 with my brothers and cousin. I played on two teams during this tournament and I didn't get as tired as I thought I would. Joe, me, John, and Richard actually made a pretty great team. If only us Abrams were a little heavier we probably could have won our bracket. As you can see I'm the only one without cut sleeves but that isn't because I'm weak, it is because I didn't want to show my brothers up and embarrass them.

Sam at Palouse Falls State Park.

Rich and I climbed down and swam in the little pool down there. We didn't get too close to the waterfall for fear of getting tossed around in the current. I'm am very glad that the two of us chose to venture on down.

I am into Yoga big time lately. I try to go 3 times a week and while I was out camping I decided to grab a quick photo of me doing yoga in front of this beautiful peaceful waterfall. I recommend Yoga to everyone. I'm more flexible, calmer, and a better athlete because of it.

Rich and I camped under the stars.

This is a picture of a copy of a birth certificate of my ancestor Roswell King. He was born in 1765 in Connecticut. Looking back in time that was an amazing time to be alive in our nations history. I just think it is amazing that I have a copy of it. I found it in my Grandma's House.
This is me in front of my grandma's house in Richland Washington. This is the house my father grew up in. It had just be newly painted also. There were tons of hidden treasures inside this old house.

Me, Anna, and Rich(my cousins) sitting on the dock my father and his friends used to sit on. It is the Columbia River in Richland Washington.

Anna, me, and Rich after our swim in the river. The river was very cold. So cold we couldn't cross the river so we just floated down the river along the bank.

Rich, me, Bill Barr(my dad's best friend), and Anna at the dock that Bill and my father grew up playing on.

Penrod, Tom Perkes, me, Rex Perkes, Bob Perkes. The perkes now all live in Richland. I stayed at Rex's place and played games all night long with these guys. I got to eat dinner with Tom and his Family. I love spending time with the Perkes. They are so competitive and tell you how it is. From Tom dunking on my head and Rex beating me in the game acuire I still got my laughs in and my own wins.

Me, Nels(my cousin), Lauren. This is at my Aunt's place in Spokane. Nels was pretty much my inspiration to start my blogs. It turns out though that Nels gives all his credit to Lauren himself, so thanks Lauren I love to blog.

Favorites

2007-07-08T00:42:00.001-06:00

List of Sammy's Favorites in Life: RELATIONSHIPS and PEOPLE, but other things are below.

Books: The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes, Lord of the Rings Trilogy, Harry Potter, Blink, Tipping Point, Reinventing Your Life, Approaching Zion, Mision to Mars, Cain Mutiny,

Magazine Subscriptions: The Economist, Dissent, Foreign Affairs

Movies: Shawshank Redemption, Rudy, Patch Adams, October Sky, Transformers, Spiderman, Bourne Identity, Bourne Supremacy, Bourne Ultimatum, Black Hawk Down, Gladiator, Braveheart,

Foods: Chicken Adobo, Hot Cereal, Scones, Onion Rings, Not from concentrate Orange Juice, Haagen-dazs Dulce de leche, Brown Cow Maple yogurt,

Animals: English Bulldog, Adelie Penguin,

Sports: Ultimate Frisbee, Tennis, Football, Soccer, Basketball, Skiing, Floor Hockey

Leisure activities: Dancing, walks, sleeping, reading, muddin,

Music: Michael Jackson, Jazz, Hip-Hop, R&B,

Board Games: Acquire, Risk, dice game, Trump the game, Hearts, Settlers of Catan

Vehicles: Toyota Tacoma, Suzuki SV 650 S,

Workouts: Yoga, swimming, running, weights

Websites: Wikipedia, Steep and Cheap, Internet Movie Database, Ebay, Google,

First Dates: Driving Range, Book Store, Walks and drink Naked juice,

Video Games: Halo, Warcraft 3,

Conversation Topics: Politics, Sports, Education,

Passions: listening, new people, risks, diversity, politics, education, sports, friends, and family.

Travels: Have been; Washington State, Mass, Philippines, Georgia, Florida, Virginia, Texas, Oregon, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, California, Arizona, West Virginia, New Hampshire, Maryland,
Wishes; Australia, New Zealand, Europe, Philippines, Costa Rica,

Therapists: Lee Ann Orton, Mom, Becky Huff (Sister Huff), and two guys who tell it like it is; Caleb Stott, and Rex Perkes

Marathon

2007-06-18T16:26:00.000-06:00

So I have decided to run a marathon. Well, at least in my mind I have decided to run a marathon. Ironically I am person who loves to run down a frisbee, run the post corner route, or even run to get the volleyball rolling into the horse pasture, but hates to run for the fun of it. My dad was an avid runner and most of the fantastic women that I date are runners themselves. Curiosity got the best of me and also a little of my competitive nature has gotten the better of my lazy running attitude. I have started to train. I should probably preface that with, I have started to run. I am trying to run 3 or 4 times a week with one of the runs being a longer run so my body "Get Used to" running for a long period of time. I will be running in the September Top of Utah Marathon. My goal is 4 hours. If any of you have tips for what has worked for your marathon please drop me a line.

Below is my inspiration for me to run my marathon. My Nephew Tyler who calls me Uncle Sam, and every time he sees me he asks, "Uncle Sam, Where's Your Truck?" Make sure you play the video, it isn't just a picture. The video might take a while to load also. Be patient for a good laugh and cute video. It is Tyler's Uncle John that is carrying him.

Click To Play

Goblin Valley

2007-06-04T00:45:00.001-06:00

A couple of weekends ago I was able to go to Goblin Valley with the Merideth family and Kelly. Goblin Valley is in Southern Utah and we got in some pretty narrow slot canyons. The hike was a nine mile hike that went in a loop. It was beautiful.

My Dad

2007-06-04T00:17:00.001-06:00

This is a picture of my father 2 weeks before he died. Many of you reading my blog have no idea that I lost my father since I haven't been in touch for quite some time. Needless to say it has been very hard. I was very close with my father. He read to me just about every night while I grew up until I was a Junior in High School. I was lucky enough to read to him his last two months of his life every night. It is something I hope to do with my children also. He died in August of 2005. I struggled with losing him and had some depression. I am now very Happy at this time in 2007. I am happily single but actively seeking to date and find someone to spend time with. We were lucky enough to raise enough money in my dad's name to permanently have a scholarship in his name forever at Spokane Community College. This was mainly made possible by his Best Friend Lamont Worrden. My dad died of Skin Cancer that spread to his lungs. He was able to run 5 miles everyday up to six months of his death. I also lost two grandparents that year, and my dad's brother. It was a hard year. I'm glad that my family has been very supportive of me and other friends that relentlessly stayed by my side through all of it. Again, this information is for informative purposes and not to create the feeling of "feel bad for Sam" attitude. I have written in a journal my incredible experiences of healing through this process and I am offering to share this with anyone that would like to read it. Just email me and I will share it with you.

I'm glad that I have so many friends and I am enjoying getting to catch up on all the blogs of my friends. Keep posting, and telling me about your families and experiences.

Chicago

2007-05-29T12:43:00.001-06:00

Click To Play

This next video is of my students and I dancing at our student Talent show. You will be able to tell why we chose the name, "Tony and the White Boys."

Click To Play

I learned how to post video at Freevlog

I was able to go to Chicago with my friend Kelly Pfister. I went over Mothers Day weekend. I loved the town and spending time with Kelly. I also got to see Matt Chandler and his family. He is going to law school at Valpo. Other highlights besides beating Kelly and her mother at pinochle, was the food. I ate real Chicago Deep Dish Pizza, and a tasty Chicago dog. I also got to watch some awesome street performers. They would stand still for minutes at a time until someone put money in a bucket and then they would move like robots. I watched for 30 minutes easy. I am so easily entertained.

Start of my Blog

2007-05-29T10:11:00.000-06:00

I saw some of my friends blogs and said to myself I need to start my own blog. The purpose of this blog as of now is to stay in touch with my friends and family. It is to let others know what is happening in my life. It is to have a little fun and also probably waste a lot of my time. This is a picture of my good friend Ryan Fitt and myself. I went to Houston to visit him on April 17th for 5 days. I really enjoyed Houston, but unfortunately didn't take any pictures of the scenery. I am proud to say that Ryan is one of my closest friends. We just got done traveling 13 miles through downtown Houston. He ran while I road my bike. He was training for a marathon and triathlons.