Hey, I'm Alive!!!

Yes, I'm alive and well in Utah. I just haven't "blogged" much lately.

I could list all of my excuses - very busy at work, no internet access at home, no time to go to the library, etc., etc., but I think the real reason I haven't blogged is that I was feeling a bit guilty about the tone of some of my other blogs. I'm afraid I've given people the impression that I don't like Mormons and/or don't like Utah. The truth is that I have yet to meet a Mormon I haven't liked. (Well, maybe that's a slight exaggeration, but I really have found most people here to be kind and friendly.) They have their quirks and peculiarities (as people everywhere do), but I like - perhaps am even drawn to - quirkiness. As far as Utah goes...I think it's gorgeous! Every time I explore a new corner of it I am stunned by the beauty.

So, why the sarcastic remarks in earlier blogs? Why the poking fun? Why the 'tude about Mormon hypocrisy? (It's not like they corner the market on that one, eh?) The short answer is that I suppose I enjoy (probably a bit too much) slaying a few sacred cows from time to time (they make the best hamburgers, I hear). And darned if there ain't a crapload of sacred cows around. I suppose I also just enjoy laughing at the "quirkiness" in all of us. I guess I find it comforting to know I'm not the only "quirky" one out there.

The more thorough answer is probably best left for another blog. I don't want to get sidetracked here. I'm writing today to say that I'm alive and well and will soon post some writing I've done "on the side" these last few months.