Just Jill

Tag, I'm It

2012-03-06T22:23:00.000-07:00

You all have the beautiful Katie ~~Felix~~ Kasparian to thank for this. Another time-waster for my actually not busy week! (yay for getting assignments and projects and units done already!)

The rules for this tag game:
1. Post these rules.
2. Post a picture of yourself and 11 random things.
3. Answer the questions set for you in the original post.
4. Create 11 new questions and tag people to answer them.

I love love. I love being in love.

Randomness:

I would kill for a mint chocolate chip shake right now.
I'm listening to the new Andrew Bird album and it makes me miss Austin and the perfect weather SO badly.
Yes, yes there is a bag of chocolate chips sitting next to me. I've been eating them.
I got myself a scholarship for the next year. It's definitely not as good as the one I have now, but hey, it's something.
This Friday is my last day at the Quinney Library, the first place I considered a home in Logan, and Tuesday I start my new job. Changeeeeee.
I want a puppy.
My favorite part of physical therapy is the electrical stimulus with heat at the very end. So good!
I have been working on this post in order to pass time for when Ian comes over. It's been a longggg time.
I think I see people from high school all over the place. It's weird.
I want to run a half marathon...but I'm super out of shape and don't know how to even train for a half and the weather in Utah is so whack I don't even know when would be the best one to sign up for.
I wish I continued playing the piano in 2nd grade. The fiance is MUCH better than me. And I can't even read bass clef anymore. Sad day.

Katie's questions:
1. If you could relive one year of your life, what year would that be?
This past year (2011). Obviously because it was so fantastic and I want to repeat it all again because I loved it so much. I would also have been less boring during the spring semester and made some changes...
2. Favorite book?
Such a hard question! I love all books. I could read Harry Potter forever though...and I love The Transall Saga and A Wrinkle In Time and The Phantom Tollbooth
3. Describe your dream outfit.
Sweet brown leather boots. A cute, bright cardigan with an awesome colorful shirt under it. Some cute jewelry and the best coat ever. I don't really have a dream outfit...
4. What brings you the greatest happiness?
Not to get cheesy, but the fiance, the future husband. He's greater than great.
5. What is your dream job?
I'd love a job that I get travel the world and stay and eat for free...but since that's near impossible...teaching. Specifically teaching in an inner city elementary school in a large, beautiful city.
6. What is your ideal way to spend a Saturday with no school or work?
Either doing something crazy cool and spontaneous and awesome, or lounging around with the fiance, being unproductive and enjoying each other's company.
7. If you had 3 days and unlimited amount of money, what would you do?
Oh man. Travel everywhere possible, while going sky diving, living in a castle, and donating money to every single charity possible. I could have the best of all worlds.
8. Pretend you're 10 years younger. Is there something about the present that would surprise you?
11? Goodness. My whole life would be a surprise. The fact I live in Logan and that I'm so close to being a teacher would be a surprise. I'm getting married at 21...also a shocker.
9. What is your favorite quote?
"Go forward in life with a twinkle in your eye and a smile on your face, but with great purpose in heart." -Gordon B. Hinckley
10. What is one of your guilty pleasures?
Thank goodness I only have to say one. Probably slurpees. That's all I'm willing to admit.
11. If a taco and grilled cheese got in a fight, who would win?
Yes, I know this is from a movie. I didn't pay attention...so I choose a taco. It's more delicious most of the time and normally not mushy or burnt.

New Questions for You!
1. What is your favorite ice cream flavor?
2. If you could live anywhere for 10 years, where would you live?
3. What would have as a pet if it could be anything?
4. Favorite movie?
5. Paper or plastic?
6. What is an invention that you want to invent?
7. What is your favorite kind of weather?
8. I'm copying this, but guilty pleasure?
9. What are you most excited for during 2012?
10. If you could have any career in life, what would it be?
11. If you could redo one thing from the past five years, what would it be?

Tag-YOU'RE it! Alexis, Sammy, Lindsay, Katlin, Kellie, Lauren,and Jordan. If y'all still read this...

The Snow That Never Ends.

2012-03-01T21:43:00.000-07:00

Goodness. This is not a secret but...I HATE SNOW. It has snowed the past 3 days. So. Much. Wet. Cold. Miserable. Snow.
Obviously the only reason I ended up at USU was for a BA and MRS degree. HAHAHA
(I really wanted to make that joke) A LOT

Guys. I want to go to SXSW. Or even Phoenix. St. George. Vegas. California. Please somewhere warm where the sun will shine on my pasty pale white skin and burn it red and make me feel warm. I'm thissssss close to driving 12 hours to Phoenix, spending a day, and driving back (ok Dad?). So close. I am sick of cold.

The back problem that has been ongoing since Summer of 2009? An answer has been found. Dancer's back. Aka my spine curves more than yours. I have stronger quads than hamstrings. Go figure. Physical therapy is the solution, I start tomorrow. Whoo. Hope that miraculously fixes everything...

Lastly, I would like to say I have worked my butt off many times this semester, especially this week. My brain and fingers have whipped out a culture unit for social studies, an informational text unit for language arts, a fraction lesson plan for math (and a test), two science tests, and a phonics unit for reading. So much work this past week. Only this past week. But it's worth it in the end....right?

I lied. Very last thought. The temple is fantastic and beautiful and amazing and brillant and perfect. AND I'm going there SOON. So excited. It's weird to have sung that song for so long and in two months I get to actually go there and enjoy it more than I can say. :)

A Sample...

2012-02-21T12:41:00.000-07:00

Yes the time has come that we finally got our engagement pictures...all 217 of them! So, I'm going to post some, mostly because I like them lots and lots.

I had to super apologize to Ian for this being caught on camera. Oops.

Don't worry, there's a ton more of where those came from. Enjoy! (If you like one lots and want to see it on the announcement, definitely let me know)

A Truthful Almost-Thursday

2012-02-15T18:13:00.001-07:00

So, I'm totally jumping the gun on this, but I do not care. Why? Life is going super great at the moment, and I would like to share that with you.

Some of you know I've been looking for a job. Well, yesterday I got one. I start during spring break. That's one less thing to stress about. It's nice to get hired, haha
Yesterday was the best valentine's day of my life, and I'm not even a huge fan of the hallmark holiday. We had a valentine's day party in my first class and got out 45 minutes early. In my second class, we got out 15 minutes early. I got a job. I got off work 5 minutes early...
AND I came home to a fantastic surprise from Ian, who covered my bed with chocolate and balloons. He's a keeper. :)
I went apartment hunting with Ian. It was fun. We're going to probably do a lot more of it.
Today, my 3 1/2 hour class in the afternoon was canceled and I loved every minute of not being in class.

So as you can see, things are going great. I'm ecstatic with life right now. :)

Tricky Thursday.

2012-02-09T20:45:00.003-07:00

This week has been full of curve balls. So it's been fun...or something.

I went to my first Jazz game, and really liked it. It's probably because the fiance was so into it, but don't tell him that.
I aced two level III tests this week. That certainly feels good.
I'm becoming pretty good at whipping up lesson plans.
Jen had surgery today, and has a plate and a couple of screws...she is now a tin man (or woman). Anyone know if she'll set the metal detectors off at the airport? haha. She should get a cast next week.
Jay Ashford, the best home teacher ever, the man who took us to the Blue Bell Factory after our house flooded, and baptized me and Jennifer, passed away this past weekend. It was really sad. He's a fantastic man.
Another sad note, Shelbie, who has had two extra chances of life (survived an attack by a dog, and able to function with medicine), is going to be put down tomorrow. She's not eating, can't stand up for long, and her arthritis medicine isn't working. It's way sad because I remember the years of "puppy-dog pyramids" and begging for a puppy, naming Shelbie and playing with her as we grew older. She's been a great dog and a huge part of my family.

Okay. Sorry. That's a lot. But life goes on. I hope everyone else has a grand week. Until then, adieu.

hahaha this makes me laugh.

We Put the "Us" in Trust

2012-02-02T19:30:00.000-07:00

Oh hey there, Thursday. It took you TOO long to get here. And with that, I give you, blogging world, another installment of Truth Thursday. DUH duh duhhhhh.

My sister broke her ankle and dislocated it walking down stairs at Weber State. I feel terrible.
With that said, I am spending Thursday evening (right now) in Roy with her as she sleeps, drinks soda, and falls asleep again.
Classes are crazy this week. I have two tests and three lessons due next week, on top of hopefully 2 job interviews and Ian and I are going to take engagements. Should be fun!
I finally called someone about my back...after 3 years. No biggie. I just have to wait a month to get in to see the doctor.
I love going to my grandma's because there is ALWAYS candy, baked goods, and ways for me to do my laundry for free. This time, totally forgot my laundry. Annoying.
I've never been more in love and couldn't be happier. :)
I love looking back a year ago and seeing where I was. My friendship with Ian was just beginning to grow stronger. And now look where we are.

Alright. Donezo. (It's a word, don't fret.) It would be SO great if everyone who read this would leave a comment...it may just help me get through six more terrible weeks of winter.

Photo Cred: Jen

Oh hey, World.

2012-01-26T10:53:00.000-07:00

Somebody That I Used To Know-Walk Off the Earth

Truth: The above link is one of my favorite songs right now. Also, 5 people playing one guitar is sweet.

Truth: I have been having super real dreams lately that I hope will never ever happen.

Truth: I feel like I spend all my time working my butt off. So...that's fun...

Truth: I'm tired of being cold all the time.

Well, that's all I have for now. Life is just so interesting and there's so much going on haha. But really.

Life Lesson #473.92

2012-01-17T21:38:00.000-07:00

Here's the thing. You can buy some sweet and cheap textbooks online. You can do it three weeks before school starts. The only problem is that you don't know for sure when they're going to come.

That being stated, I have been in quite a predicament. I have all of my textbooks except for my Social Studies in Elementary Education or some silly title like that book. I have a two page response paper due tomorrow. The book is not here. The book is not on reserve at the library (double checked) and is for sale in the bookstore for $50 more than I got it for. So, I checked with girls in my class that I knew and could contact...no luck. I checked with people who took it last semester...no luck. I even checked the mail three times today. You get the picture. I was desperate. I do not like late assignments and my program hates the people who turn assignments in late, so I avoided that at all costs.

So there I am, after my 3 1/2 hour science class, sitting in the bookstore, trying to furiously read my book before I get caught. Of course, this textbook has no pictures and small black font. No good. I got 10 pages in and an employee kindly tells me you can't do homework in the store. I explain to her that the assignment is due at 8 am the next morning and my book definitely won't come until after then since the ail already came. She says she'll check. I think I'm in the clear and this college student took pity on me. 3 minutes later she returns, no pity party invitation in hand. So, I leave able to do 1/2 my homework. If you know me, that isn't good enough.

So, I go back a little later and decide to scheme the bookstore because it's pretty much the spawn of Satan anyway, stealing money from poor college kids. My plan: buy the stupid book, read it, and return it the next day, getting my money back. So, I do just that, and then they tell me the bad news. I can only get a full refund if I drop the class. H to the NO. I'm not dropping a class to return the book to get kicked out of my program. No way Jose.

Moral of the story: I got screwed by the bookstore, the mail system, and cheaper books. Result? I technically own two social studies books. Oh goodness.

Score!

2012-01-15T02:33:00.001-07:00

Today, I...

found...

MY

WEDDING DRESS!

That is all. :)
(Oh and it's completely different than I ever imagined it would be but I love every centimeter and button of the beautiful ivory dress we found at the cutest store in Logan)
Also I think I am not a bridezilla or bossy. I pretty much just go with the flow and try out everything. That led to some fun dresses I may post pictures of.

This is one that I actually liked a lot. I felt like a Disney princess.

And this was the most absolute funnest one to put on. It was just super fun and super poofy and ridiculous.

We Can Burn Brighter Than The Sun

2012-01-12T12:36:00.001-07:00

Well, school has started and classes are long. Very long. By that, I mean all of my classes are 3 1/2 hours long. And my classes are only in 2 different classrooms, which are next to each other. Holy hard. Level III is going to murder me before I can finish the semester. Oh well...
Well, to move on to something more light-hearted, here's some truths for this cold day of Thursday.

I was going to go to the Red Hot Chili Peppers concert in Arizona in March, and we almost had all the details worked out, but they rescheduled their U.S. tour so now we can't go. I am BUMMED.
Today, my contacts are bugging me. It's true.
I love my roommates. They're super great. I love when they're home when I am. It's nice.
My back hurts. I'm going to call a doctor about it...sometime.
I love when people tell me they love my ring. It's great. It's even better when people talk about my ring not around me and random people ask to see it.
I got to eat lunch with Miss Katie Mae yesterday and I loved it! I also got some delicious Austrian chocolate. MMM!
I have no classes today! I'm going to be productive and get almost all my homework done (except Social Studies since I still don't have the book), hopefully finish my scholarship application, and maybe get a start on the Relief Society lesson I am sooooo lucky to teach on Sunday.

Well, it's Thursday

2012-01-05T11:46:00.000-07:00

All I ever blog about is Truth Thursday and I'm sorry. Maybe if things weren't crazy, I'd be able to blog about some cool things and elaborate, but since only three people ever read this, they can just read the highlights.

I made the Dean's List (again)! It's exciting. You have to have a 3.5 GPA and 15 or more credit hours to make it...and I did! It's great. Hopefully it will help earn me some scholarship money...
I promise I won't mention wedding stuff every time I blog, but we have a reception center booked! It's a huge relief. Now on to everything else.
I got to celebrate New Year's with my friends for the first time in a handful of years. And it was fantastic! We danced and laughed and played around the world and ate delicious food. Thanks, Alexis for being awesome and throwing that together!
On Monday I have to be outside the Education building waiting around 3 AM so I can get a student teaching spot in Cache Valley. I am NOT excited to do that on the first day of school. Blah.
I need another job in Logan, one that I can work evenings. Anyone know of a place hiring? Anyone? Yeah...didn't think so. Grrr.
I just gave in and bought the Adele album. I couldn't help myself. I also secretly belt out her songs when they come on the radio and no one else is in the car. It's fine.

Well, there you go. I'm excited to start this new semester (and I'll be engaged all semester so that's just cute and neat!), but I wish I had another week of a break. That would definitely be nice and definitely help out a lot. Oh well...life goes on.

Truth Thursday

2011-12-29T21:44:00.001-07:00

This will be short and sweet.

I love the changes happening in my life right now! (Check out that terribly long post below)
Ian is coming to "Grandma Roy's" tonight and I'm so excited for the whole weekend and then some with him!
I feel super grown up. Yep.
I got to see my 93 year old Great Grandma yesterday, who is healthy and strong and stubborn. If that doesn't make me want to be healthy and stay that way, I don't know what will. Let's hope I got that side of my families' health haha
I sat down and read an entire book from cover to cover. Some days, that is just the absolute best.

Well, that's really all I have that I can think of. I'm excited for 2012 and everything that the new year will bring! It's a big one! :)

'Marry Me, Jill!"

2011-12-25T12:46:00.001-07:00

I am so excited and happy to be engaged to Ian. Really though, it's surreal and amazing and so exciting! Well, here's the engagement story, three days later.

It was Thursday, December 22nd. I was in Roy, and Ian was in Logan working. I headed up to Logan Thursday night to see Ian, and because we had planned to go skiing Friday morning and I didn't want to drive up super early. I got there, put my clean clothes away, and Ian came over. We started playing Egyptian Rat Screw after Ian looked at movies on Netflix and didn't like any. I won the first game, which is perfect because it's one of the few games I can beat Ian at. The next game, Ian decided to make a bet. If I won, I could open my Christmas present from him (he had brought it over and put it under the tree earlier) but if he won, I would take him to Beto's, since he's always hungry.

I won, of course, and he grabbed the present and convinced me to open it. In it, I found 4 pairs of great socks. Haha. He asked me if I remembered the story behind the socks, and I didn't know, so he started explaining it to me. He told me that a few weeks before, we were walking back from school and he asked me what I wanted for Christmas. I said nothing (especially because I knew he was working on getting a ring). He then asked what I thought he got me, and I said socks. Anyone who knows me knows I love socks. He said no, and that he thought I already knew anyway, and I didn't want to guess anymore. After he finished explaining it to me so I could remember that conversation, he told me he had something else in mind when he asked me that question, and he had something else for me. He pulled a ring box out of his pocket, opened it, and said "marry me, Jill." It was cute. It was simple. I said yes, of course. :) I am honestly so happy, and I was very surprised he asked me then. I knew it was coming, but I was surprised, which takes a lot since I'm so nosy.

SO HAPPY!

The ring and the socks.

The next day, I got to go skiing for the very first time with my fiance! :) It was so fun, and I am super duper sore. We practiced on Little Beaver and Ian was super patient with me. I love that man. We then got on a lift and Ian got bored of the easy stuff and took me on a Blue Square run instead of a Green circle. I practically died, but I made it to the bottom, with a great story. We ate, Ian did some black diamonds because he's pro like that, and then we went on this sweet green circle run that went from the top of the mountain to the bottom! It was beautiful and fun. On the 2nd time, I didn't even fall once.

I just love this picture so much.

On the lift for Little Beaver.

Ian my fiance (that's fun) in the lodge.

So there. A huge update on my life. If anyone is curious, we set the date for May 18th, in the Bountiful Utah Temple! I am so so excited and cannot wait!

A Week has Come and Gone

2011-12-22T00:46:00.000-07:00

Holy cow. Time is flying right on by and I can't do anything about it. Goodness. Well, as stated in my previous post, I'm starting Truth Thursday, and by the clock, it is now Thursday...so here goes.

Finals are over, and I'm pretty dang proud of my grades. I got straight A's in five classes, and a B in my silly world archaeology class I took for my Social Studies emphasis. I feel accomplished. A's are great, and I love that I do well in all the classes related to my major and future career. My cumulative GPA went up a whole .03 points...but you take what you can get haha.
This has been a weird winter. It's Christmastime and I want snow for goodness sakes. Christmas break should be full of hot chocolate drinking, snowmen building, and sledding...but it hasn't snowed enough. I just want a white Christmas for once in my life...but it looks like that won't happen this year either.
I love being with people. Already knew that, but once people abandoned Logan, it became more evident. On the plus side, there's always close parking and everything is pretty dang clean...
I love Polaroid pictures. I don't care if the colors fade, I still think they're neat.
Ian's making me go skiing on Friday. I am terrified but at the same time, slightly (only slightly) tiny, teeny bit almost excited-ish to try something new. It's a completely new experience for me, which is scary. It's dangerous and deadly...also scary. But it's new, unexplored, and untried, and I get to experience it with a cute boy, so it could be fun, right? (If you read this Ian, DON'T get any ideas).
Traditions are super important to me and I love them a lot. That means if you burn the delicious polish tea cookies, they are no good. It doesn't matter if you like crunchy cookies, polish tea cookies were not meant to crunch. That's plain and simple.
Back to school. This is the first time EVER I got full points in a class. Yes, that means on every assignment, paper, and case study, I received every. single. point. possible. That's pretty sweet I think. But maybe that's just me.

Peace out, world of two readers. I hope your Thursday is full of awesomeness, something Christmas-related, and of course, some chocolate. :)

Truth Thursday

2011-12-15T20:03:00.000-07:00

So...Katie, over in Austria started doing Truth Tuesday, but I want to do it on Thursday, so now I have invented a new thing. Voila. AKA, I'm slightly bored, and I feel like I don't post on here regularly anymore, so this will keep me posting, at least once a week. So, here goes the inaugural Truth Thursday post:

I am freezing cold. I am constantly being reminded that I hate being cold, yet I chose to live here. Was it a stupid decision? Never.
I am laying in my bed at 7:53 pm. Tawnya is watching Gilligan's Island downstairs, which I chose to opt out of, and Alexis is being vortexed at the mafia's...which leaves me tucked under four layers in my bed waiting for my best friend to get off of work. Lame? Maybe...but I'm totally okay with that.
This round of finals has not been pleasant and full of awesome adventures. I studied and procrastinated via many television shows and pinterest (best website ever). Now that school is (almost) over, I can do whatever I want, but many people have already left and all the super fun outdoorsy things I wanted to do can no longer be done due to the bitter cold outside.
I snoop, especially at Christmas time. I used to sneak around my house growing up and find all the presents before they were wrapped and look what they were. And I told no one, and pretended to be surprised on Christmas. Thus, I will have rotten and sneaky children. Also, I still pry for information, especially from roommates who are too good at keeping secrets. Curses.
I love Christmas. Despite my first truth, I want it to be a white Christmas, as I have never experienced one of those in my life. I want to wake up Christmas morning and see a few inches, even a foot of snow on the ground and see it still snowing. Then, unrealistically, I'd like to get in a horse-drawn carriage and go around for a bit drinking the best hot chocolate ever. Yeah...that 2nd part will never happen, but a girl can dream.
I love my new phone and I don't care who disses on it, including those Apple "elitists." ;) It's fun, and although the screen is huge, I love playing with it My and skyping my brother on it while I cook, and other neat things. Yep, my phone is neat.

Well, there it is. I don't know how much I like it, but I'll just deal with it. It was kind of fun...and it should just get better and better, right? Right.

It's Thursday...

2011-12-15T09:07:00.001-07:00

Why this video? Because I can, and I found it today. And it makes me want to blast this song in the car with the windows down. And I just want to be done with finals.

Finals

2011-12-08T07:46:00.002-07:00

Bring.
It.
On.

I'm so ready for Christmas break.

Plain and Simple

2011-11-29T00:30:00.000-07:00

So, here's the thing.

I'm happy.

Sure, I'm stressed about school and homework and work and finals and life...but it doesn't effect me that much. Things are never perfect in my life, but right now, they're dang close. I love my family. I love Ian. I love my friends and roommates (who are also my friends). I love that I'm going to Utah State and getting a degree. I love the gospel.

So there. I just wanted to share my happiness on this cold winter night. :)

(Maybe one day I'll have a cool adventure to blog about, but who knows when that will be since it's cold. haha)

Another Thankful Turkey

2011-11-24T20:43:00.000-07:00

Except this thankful turkey is in blog form and not made from my hand colored in beautiful ways. But really, what else could be a better thing for me to do while waiting for Black Friday deals (sleeping is excluded) than to publicly share a decent list of things I'm grateful for? Yeah. I couldn't come up with anything either.
So, on this decently not super cold Thanksgiving day of 2011, I am grateful for:

Life. Simple, but true. I love enjoying life.
My family. They're crazy and hilarious and serious and fun. Through the ups and downs, I still love them and love how much they support me.
The fact that I get along with all my family members, most of the time. I love that I can talk to my mom and dad about things, even the important stuff. Those are relationships I have come to value in the past few years.
I'm not one to be public about this, but I'm super grateful for my boyfriend, Ian. He is the best part of my life and makes every second better, whether I'm sitting next to him or thousands of miles away. He is always there for me and always willing to go out of his way for me, even when I don't ask. I love that boy. :)
My friends and roommates. I don't know where I'd be without them, but I certainly do love them. They make everything fun and are always there for me.
Warmth. I love being warm. I love the sun, and when that's gone, I love being able to put on long sleeves, curl up under a blanket and drink hot chocolate. So good!
Being raised in Texas. I would never change that about my past. I will always have Texas pride, and be in love with the 512. It will always be my home.
Dogs. They're great. True fact. Especially when they sit on my lap on the couch.
An education. I love the opportunity I have to learn. Sure, it means paying an arm and a leg every semester, but it's worth it in the end, especially knowing that I'll be able to teach children to love learning once I get my degree.
Technology. I would be ungrateful if I wasn't thankful for this. It makes everything super easy and I can stay in touch with people hundreds and thousands of miles away. It's also a great source of entertainment (pinterest...whattt?)
The gospel. Being a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints has changed me for the better and made me the person I am today. I could not live without the light of the truthfulness of this gospel in my life, and I wouldn't be so happy.
Speaking of happy, I'm grateful for temples. The most beautiful place ever.
Trials. Lame, bit it's true. They make me stronger and closer to my Heavenly Father. They make for great stories too...
Adventures. I love going on adventures, especially spontaneous ones. Seriously, when it's snowing and deathly outside, I love being able to think of all the fun things I've done and know things are good. haha.
Food and pie. Really though. I love eating delicious food and desserts, and being able to enjoy eating them.
Health. Yeah...I have an ear infection, but for the most part, I'm blessed to be healthy and strong and able to do things on my own. I love it.
Seasons. I love all of them, for all different reasons. I love that I can experience them and the beauty each season possesses.
Love and kindness. It's a beautiful thing to see happening around me, and to take part in.
Goals. They keep me motivated and my sights set on achieving them. And, I love completing a goal and being able to check that off the list.
Living in America. I love all of my freedoms and being able to choose what my religion is and say whatever I want. I am super blessed.
The ability to travel. I've been bit by the travel bug and hard, and I am so lucky that I can leave my home and go to awesome places.

Well, that's a decent enough list for now. Please believe I am grateful for so so much more and just don't have the time or will power to type it all up. I love my life, despite all the complaining I do. I hope everyone's Thanksgiving was fantastic! :)

A Thankful Break

2011-11-23T13:32:00.000-07:00

Here I am sitting on my grandma's couch in Roy, with a dog curled up on me, my phone that isn't be used, and my laptop. Oh, and my spirals for two classes I may or may not be ambitious enough to write papers for.

But goodness, I am thankful for breaks. Breaks from school and stress and homework. What have I done since I started my break yesterday afternoon? I did 5 loads of laundry (hey...it's free and well...free) and sat around and watched t.v. shows until late hours into the night. And I enjoyed it. Today, I got up and ate breakfast while looking at magazines, ones that are interesting and not full of skater punk clothes like we get in ~~Logan~~ Narnia. I then helped my grandma make pie crusts (there are 7 sitting on the counter...mmm) and got to go to one of my favorite stores. We also got Pizza Hut and now I'm sitting comfortably on the couch with a warm blanket that reminds me of home, waiting for the motivation to text my mom for the chocolate chip pecan pie recipe that can't be found.

If any of you are worrying, it's okay. I have an excuse to be lazy. It's called...I have an ear infection and while at my grandma's, I don't live with my friends or super close to the people I love. So, I have the internet and books, and maybe some pies to make.

I wish you all the happiest thanksgiving, full of gratitude, joy, loved ones, and most importantly, pie.

A Little Something we like to call Aggie Pride

2011-11-10T17:30:00.000-07:00

Holy cow one huge reason I love Utah State is the pride we have...especially when it comes to basketball. What has brought on this urge to share this pride? The two night, 3 day camp out in order to get into the YBU basketball game on Friday. Yes...it has been dropping to 10 degrees at night. Cool...and a bit crazy. There's this whole wristband check-in system and campsite numbers and stressful rules but it's so fun and kind of crazy, but I like it. Now, we all know YBU doesn't actually care about Utah State, but Utah State just loves to hate YBU. Why? We don't really have a rival...so why not make it YBU? Besides, we can beat their football team sometimes and we even beat their basketball team when Jimmer was around (seriously...who names their kid that!?). So pretty much, we hate because we can...and we have fun with it.

Here are some pictures from the game two years ago where we waited in line practically all day. So many good times.

Oh, I miss this so much. Such a good time.

Where the girls are girls and the boys are too. haha.

This shirt still makes me laugh. Maybe inappropriate, but so so so funny.

So here's to you, Aggie Basketball, for uniting friends to hate on that school from the south and make magical memories.

P.S. YBU isn't a typo...it's "why be you" hahaha

Happiness.

2011-10-31T01:15:00.000-06:00

You know that moment when you look back and all of a sudden things are falling into place and just seem perfect? Totally experienced one of those precious moments this weekend. Good thing I love those moments. I love having the ability to look back and see what's changed, and where those changes are/will lead me. It makes me excited for the future, even if the future still freaks me out (I've accepted it will always freak me out though, so that's good.). I'm sorry this is such a short and simple post, but sometimes those are the best.

P.S. I'd like to announce that....I added an ESL endorsement to my elementary education/emphasis is social studies degree. Cool, right? That also puts me at graduating in May 2013. I definitely like that sound of that. :)

LOVE THIS! :)

Falling for Fall

2011-10-24T21:02:00.000-06:00

Well, it is now fall and my favorite season! I really do love it, and I'm loving this fall too. Life is busy, with classes, work, and practicum...but I still find time to have fun. I love love love my roommates. They're all great. SO great. It was fall break this past weekend and it was so nice. I got to read, went down to Roy to see Jen, went to the Pumpkin Walk (a mini, halloween version of Trail of Lights), and made butterbeer. Being swamped with school, I really do appreciate just being able to sit down and not stress for a few hours. So...I do that. My life is more exciting than my blogpost is letting on, but you can deal with it.

Jen and I carved this. And Sandy wanted to be in the picture.

Logan Canyon on a rainy Sunday.

We went to Tony's Grove.

The pumpkin my roommates and I carved during FHE.

Time.

2011-10-12T00:13:00.000-06:00

Here's the deal. The thing I have started to value the most since I started college is time. It means so much to me. With the chaos of work, classes, homework, studying, group projects, meetings, etc., it's hard to find time to do everything I want and need to do. It's hard to find time to see the people who make me happy, and make them happy in return.

So what have I learned? How to juggle.

Sometimes, I try it with scarves, sometimes balls, and even bowling pins. I'll add a flaming one every now and then just to spice things up. Haha.

But. What I value even more are the people who juggle their time to spend some of it with me. You know who you are. You make my days brighter by doing that, and I love each and every one of you a little more each time you spend some of your invaluable, precious time with me.

So here's to time: that we can all appreciate it a little bit more and use it more wisely. (I'll have to work on that)

21.

2011-10-05T14:02:00.000-06:00

I can pretty much do whatever I want now...especially if I wanted to be irresponsible.

But this blogpost isn't about me...it's about a girl who has been by my side through the thick and thin for 21 whole years. Yep...my twin sister.

I love my sister so much. She has always been there for me...literally. It was great growing up and always knowing someone in my grade, and always having a friend at almost every activity I went to.

Lately though, as we've gotten older and gone to separate schools, it's been different. We know each other so well and stay in touch. Yes, we complain to each other about people we know. We laugh when stupid things happen. We go and get slurpees together. We rarely argue. We make runs to McDonalds to get a red box and fries. But now, we can talk about much more important things and we stand up for each other. Jen knows where I stand on certain touchy subjects, and she stands up for me, as well as herself. It's amazing to see that happen. I'm super lucky to have a sister, even a twin, that will do that for me, and that I can be there for her. It's great.

I can truly say that I have the best sister ever. I love you, Jen.

Home Alone

2011-10-01T02:17:00.000-06:00

It's that time of night when you realize you're home alone and the wind is howling louder than a tornado outside. You are tired and want to sleep, but can't...until you do about 10 unproductive or extremely productive things to make you fall-asleep-while-doing-one-of-these-things tired.

Today was good. I took two naps. Yes, TWO. I played raquetball for the first time...and even beat Ian once. Score for me. I watched Utah State fail in the 4th quarter...again. Fridays are super great for lots of reasons, and I love all of those reasons.

I would like to leave you all with a picture of a monkey...a very cute monkey. I would like to have it and carry it around in my pocket. It would be sooo cute and cool.

P.S. Katie is now in Austria! I just want her to know that I love her, miss her, and hope she's doing okay. Also, I'm super jealous she's in Europe and about to experience something amazing.

If the Right One Came Along

2011-09-20T09:50:00.000-06:00

Yep. Totally grooving to The Civil Wars. So good.

So, pretty much I'm updating this at the request of Alexis...which she requested by practically yelling at me across the room at work...so this is for you Alexis.

Well, life is going just great. Let's see..what to tell about. Last friday, we crashed Haley's stake activity at the Sports Academy. Yes, that does mean we got lots of free pizza, and even took boxes of pizza home. It also means we played on these cool vibrating machines and jumped on super bouncy trampolines and pushed each other off on the balance beams. It was super fun to act like a child haha.

Then on Saturday, I finally made it up Green Canyon. Ian, Jaron, Jordan, and Zach decided to have a bonfire and do s'mores at the very top...so of course I went. Savanah and Andrew came too, so that was fun, even though Andrew ended up covering me in ooey gooey marshmallow. But don't worry, all is forgiven...mostly.

This week is homecoming week. Last night was the paint dance, and I of course went. It was just great to get soaking wet in watered down paint. But really. After we made it through the pushy mosh pit part of the crowd, it was really fun. It was super sweet to watch the people squirt the paint with the strobe lights going. It was definitely worth the cold, sticky feeling when we left.

Just because for some weird reason, I really love this picture. :)

Give Your Best

2011-09-13T09:02:00.000-06:00

This is a poem that I love, and wanted to share. It reminds me of a great night at camp... :)

Late Night Ramblings

2011-09-10T01:19:00.001-06:00

Warning: this post is being typed decently late at night, when I am in a blogging mood that is definitely not necessary. Proceed with caution?

First bits of thought. You know that moment of a day when you realize that everything is going extremely well, even better than could be planned? Yeah. Love those moments. That happened to me on Wednesday and it was one of the greatest days ever (which is saying a lot considering how much I do on Wednesdays). Through a series of small and mostly large miracles and coincidences, I got to go to the temple and fell the Spirit and my Heavenly Father's love and approval for me. It was amazing.

I like being able to look in someone's eyes and know what they are thinking or feeling.

I want to go on another adventure, before it gets too cold. I'm so digging this adventure addiction I have. It's delicious.

Another thought. My major. My life. Ugh. Can I say that it is one of my biggest pet peeves for people to say "I want to be a better mother" when they're asked why they're majoring in elementary education. Another thing, I don't know how I feel about graduating in 3 semesters. I sort of want to do an ESL endorsement. I want to get my minor in sociology. I would love to get my master's...but that can happen in a lot of years. What if my life is too crazy for me when college is done? What if it's not fulfilling enough. Someone should just map out my life. That would be great. Oh well, sorry for the rant.

Change is in the air...I love the crunchy leaves on the ground. Homework sucks. Stress sucks. Nightmares....they suck too. You get the drift.

Alright, I'm just typing random sentences that barely make sense. I apologize.

Couldn't Be Happier

2011-09-06T08:37:00.002-06:00

Well. The first week of school went decently well. I'm taking 17 credits so it's super hectic and overwhelming, but I can manage. Three of my classes have practicum required for them so that will be interesting. I get to relearn to play the recorder for my music class. Let's be honest, this semester is super stressful, I'm not sure why it's more than normal but oh well.

Labor Day weekend was amazingly awesome. We rocked the 80's dance and it was so great. Ian and I went to a sweet wedding reception and ate so much junk food. Monday was great and we went to Park City and did the alpine slide and alpine coaster. It was a blast. This weekend really was awesome, past the point that words can describe.

Before the 80's dance. Yes, I stole these from your phone, Ian. :)

We jazzercise like pros.

After the 80's dance.

On a not so happy note, home (ATX home) is on fire. Literally. And it breaks my heart. The home teachers I had growing up just found out their home has been burnt to the ground. The place we used to go camping for mother-daughter campouts is gone. A whole state park. My entire stake is being affected by these crazy fires. I can't really do anything but keep the 512 in my prayers.

Sorry this is such a vague update, but I blame the fact that it's 8:30 in the morning and overcast and cold.

Week Of Fun.

2011-08-28T16:00:00.000-06:00

My first week back in Logan has been one of the greatest weeks ever! I pretty much played the whole time. My life has never been better and I have high hopes for the school year. :)

Monday, we moved in and got settles and such, and celebrated by going to First Dam with some of the mafia. Holy cold. That water should have ice cubes in it, seriously. Anyway, we all jumped off the bridge into the freezing cold water. So fun and so stupid haha. Then, Kyle challenged Alexis and I to swim across the mini artic ocean to this tree...for four dinners. So...we did it. We numbed ourselves and completed the challenge. Victory was sweet, but the coldness of the water made Alexis and I feel sick and weird. It was fun.

Tuesday, Alexis and I visited Patsy. It was a grand old time. We took the new roomies to Gossner's. So fun. Then we pretty much just chilled.

Wednesday was awesome. I went up to Bloomington Lake with Savanah, Katherine, Alexis, the Vanfleets, Kyle, and Jordan. It's a beautiful mountain lake in Idaho past Bear Lake. I LOVED it. There was a rope swing so we entertained ourselves with that for hours. On the way back, we stopped at LaBeau's and got raspberry shakes!! It was the first time I have had a raspberry shake from Bear Lake and it was SO good! mmm. I also showed Ian one of my favorite spots in Cache Valley, so that was neat as well.

Thursday was another chill day...because those are necessary after such adventures. Alexis and I laid in bed for hours...because we had nothing to do and sometimes it's necessary to be a lazy bum.

Friday was great. Alexis made snickerdoodles and we bonded with the roommates. I love my roommates. I lucked out again. Thank goodness. I hung out with Ian a lot/every day haha and it was so great. It's awesome to be in the same city again.

Saturday I crossed off a bucket list item. Bam. First, we scored free pizza and drinks. Then it was nap time. I played the guitar some...I'm learning. Then, Ian, Jaron, Brian, Jordan, Alyce and I went to Porcupine Reservoir and went cliff jumping...yes. Cliff jumping. It was awesome and epic and super scary. Porcupine Reservoir is beautiful. I ran into the old home teachers, a girl I knew freshman year, Sabra and Jessica from camp, and people from last year. It was crazy, and awesome.

Anticipation and Recap

2011-08-22T00:26:00.000-06:00

You know those times when you're SO excited for something that you can't and don't want to sleep?
This is one of those dreaded times.

Why?
I'm moving to L-town tomorrow! My new home will be M1. My un-married best friend Alexis (sorry Katie) is now my "room roommate" and I am so so so stoked. I can't wait to be on my own again living in my little city.

Let's be honest, this summer has been the best summer of my life for so many reasons. Here, let me be sentimental for you...but mostly for me. Oh, I will also be bragging. Here goes. I went on an off the hook cruise to Catalina Island and Mexico. I went to Disneyland for the first time and explored San Francisco. I partied it up as a camp counselor in the Uintah Mountains for two months. I saw a total of seven moose. I went to Arizona and did awesome things there. I went to my first Real Salt Lake game and Bees game. I was a bridesmaid for the first time. I climbed to the top of a mountain. I went to my first drive-in. I experienced more than this post can handle this summer.

Summary? This was the summer everyone dreams about, and it was awesome. Moving up to Logan tomorrow means that summer as I know it is over, and school is imminent. Don't get me wrong, I love school...but I love doing exactly what I want, when I want, in a carefree manner. However, it's a new stage of my life, one that sort of scares me yet I look forward to. It's a weird emotion, but oh well.

Hello, 3rd to last semester at USU and all the challenges, joys, and memories you will bring. :)

Full Circle

2011-08-19T17:05:00.000-06:00

So, this one time, I hiked to the top of a mountain and it was a blast. The end.

Okay, okay. So that sentence needs editing. Here goes:

Ian and I started the hike to Timpanogos Peak at 12:45 A.M. Crazy, right? It wasn't hard until about 3:30 in the morning, when our brains were telling us we needed sleep. It was an extra challenge. Other challenges included hiking in the dark (my imagination got the best of me), crossing glaciers (yes...you read that right), and just hiking a total of 14.2 miles. We reached the peak around 5, and took a glorious nap, and woke up just in time to see the beautiful sunrise. Maybe I should define peak: peak is the saddle of the mountain. The actual peak was 45 minutes away and our brains wouldn't let us go. I still think it counts as climbing to a mountain peak...votes? Anyway...it was ~~probably~~ the most beautiful sunrise I've ever seen, especially since we were on top of the world. We watched the chipmunks run around for a bit, and then headed down, pretty much because we were freezing cold. We slid and skied down glaciers...still terrifying, and booked it down the mountain. Ian spotted 3 moose! For those following, that makes my moose count for the summer SEVEN. Be jealous. It was awesome to actually see where we had hiked since it was light outside on the way down. The wildflowers were beautiful, as were the millions of waterfalls. It was probably one of the greatest hikes I've been on, and the longest hike I've ever been on. We reached the car around 11 A.M. It was an intense hike for sure, but I loved every moment of it. :)

The sunrise. Talk about breathtaking!

Ian and I at the top.

One of my favorite pictures that I took. You could see mountains forever.

This glacier was fun. Ian defied death to take this picture...well practically.

Ian and I about an hour from the bottom. We were tired.

Arizona

2011-08-14T00:26:00.000-06:00

For those of you who didn't catch on, I spent four days in the Grand Canyon State. Yes, it was hot like summer should be and I loved it. I got to see my dad and my brother. It was an eye-opening adventure. We saw movies. We sat in silence in the car. We ate at good restaurants, including Native New Yorker (those wings...mmm). We went to Sedona, Arizona, a beautiful place in the middle of a desert. We slid down rocks into ice cold water, people watched, and jumped off of bright orange rocks at Slide Rock National Park. We walked the super touristy streets of Sedona and ended up in an art gallery filled with pieces that should have been in a museum, and pretty much got a personal tour of the place. We sat at the Diamondbacks vs. Mets baseball game...the D-backs won and are currently ranked number one! I watched as the Chase Field's roof opened when the game was won for a spectacular fireworks show. It truly was a great visit, even if I did get sunburned.

Me and the brother squinting in the sun at Slide Rock.

That's my father doing a cannonball.

The Post You Don't Actually Want to Read

2011-08-07T14:19:00.000-06:00

Dear World, I stole this from Katie and I filled it out because I'm bored on this lovely Sunday afternoon.

Ten Things I Wish I Could Say to 10 Different People (but don't say their name):
1. You don't have to learn everything the hard way. Find that motivation and drink some man-up juice.
2. Don't hide who you are-you're beautiful and need to allow the rest of the world to see that.
3. Our friendship is something I highly value, so no matter where we end up, let's still be friends.
4. If it was anyone else, I'd be worried, but I'm so excited!
5. Thanks for always looking out for me, even with the distance. It means a lot.
6. I love that you took the chance. Things turned out far better than imaginable.
7. Go out there and be optimistic. The world isn't out to get you.
8. The stubbornness has got to go.
9. I appreciate the example you have set more than you could ever know.
10. I've looked up to you since we've met, and it means a lot that you stay in touch.

Nine Things About Myself:
1. My favorite color is green.
2. Texas is the best, period.
3. I love trying new things and new food.
4. I would love to be musically talented.
5. I hope that someday I will be able to travel...everywhere.
6. I love the heat and being outdoors.
7. Chocolate cake with vanilla icing is the way to go.
8. I still like to sleep with my stuffed koala. Her name is Charley.
9. My lucky number is #13.

Eight Ways To Win My Heart:
1. Tell me what's on your mind, and tell me about your childhood.
2. Make me laugh.
3. Cheese.
4. Inside jokes are great...
5. Going on fun/spontaneous/random/awesome adventures.
6. The little things (ie holding my hand, putting your hand on my knee, the look in your eyes...)
7. Letting me meet your family and friends. It means a lot.
8. Have something that you love, or multiple somethings, and share that with me.

Seven Things That Cross My Mind a Lot:
1. The future. It freaks me out.
2. You. :)
3. Goals that I want to accomplish, but probably never will.
4. My family.
5. Places I want to travel to.
6. Chocolate...
7. Song lyrics.

Six Things I Do Before Falling Asleep
1. Brush my teeth and take my contacts out.
2. Put pajamas on.
3. Turn on my lamp.
4. Read my scriptures.
5. Say a prayer.
6. Think about everything awesome in my life and hopefully fall asleep.

Five People Who Mean a Lot:
1. Mom
2. Dad
3. The siblings
4. Ian
5. The roommates and the friends I would be miserable without.

Four Things I'm Wearing:
1. The necklace my mom gave me my senior year of high school
2. My CTR ring
3. My "Sunday" jeans.
4. Friendship bracelets from camp.

Three Songs I Listen to Often (this summer):
1. Inches and Falling-The Format
2. Awake My Soul-Mumford & Sons
3. Happily Ever After- He Is We

Two Things I Want to Do Before I Die:
1. Go to every temple. Crazy, but hey...I get my travelling in that way too. :)
2. Go skydiving.

One Confession:
1. When I eat, I normally either put two pieces in my mouth (one for each side), split the piece in half and share it with both sides, or alternate sides of my mouth. I don't know why I do that. It's super weird and barely anyone knows I do that...and now the handful who read this know as well.

Having someplace to go is home. Having someone to love is family. Having both is a blessing.

2011-08-06T00:42:00.001-06:00

Life can change in the blink of an eye.

But I've come to accept that life changes constantly. Almost an oxymoron.

Lately, I've been counting my blessings over and over. I have been extremely blessed, especially in the past few months. I'd even say I've been blessed far beyond what I deserve, yet I am ever so grateful for it. I don't know what I did to get the fantastic friends and boyfriend I have, but I certainly feel like the luckiest girl in the universe.

And on that note: CONGRATS to Jessica and Jason! It's been a long time running, so it was so great to see y'all blissfully happy and married today. Thanks for letting me be so involved in the wedding. :)

And I have an announcement: Utah has gained another true Texan today...my mom. Yep, it's official, I no longer have a home in the 512, but my mom is now out here, near her family. It's just another one of those changes.

Flashback to last summer. Things have changed so much, but not my love of Texas or Dr. Pepper.

Hello, August!

2011-08-02T14:42:00.000-06:00

Well, my summer as a camp counselor at YMCA Camp Roger is now over. It was the most fantastic two months of a summer ever. I'm not even exaggerating. Yeah, it was hard to be out of the loop all summer, but oh well. I got to see FOUR moose, started 3 one-match fires, had great experiences and hopefully made at least one impression on a camper's life.

I loved Clyde.

I loved where I worked. It was soooo beautiful!

Oh, staff. :)

And the rest of my summer had been great. This week, Jessica is getting married and I get to be one of her bridesmaids! I'm stoked. It's really such an honor. Also, I love spending time with Ian, it's always an adventure...like a 12 run inning at a Bees game or always losing to him in a croquet game. :)

As for the rest of the summer, I'm going to Arizona to experience some true summer heat and see my dad and brother for a few days. My mom is moving out here this coming Saturday, so that's new. Everything is changing, and even though it's all hard to accept all at once, things are still going great and I wouldn't ask for anything different.

Midway Mark!

2011-07-16T19:59:00.000-06:00

I was going around the corner, going 90 miles an hour when the chain on the bicycle broke.

Well. The summer job as a camp counselor is HALFWAY over! Pretty exciting. Camp is great fun, but very tiring and stressful....but I can't deny that I love it. There's always something new going on every week, bracelets being made, songs being sung, and laughter filling the air. I can definitely say it is an experience I will never forget.

Ode to Carnival Week: the dunking booth was filled with ice. SO cold.

Also, I must say that weekends are super great. It gives me something to look forward to and get a break from the Uintah Mountains...and you know, socialize with people other than my co-workers.

We hiked waterfall canyon. It was awesome.

Also, now on Google+. It's interesting. Add me! :)

There once was a wizard...

2011-07-03T11:09:00.000-06:00

Well hello there! It's been a while...but it's hard to blog in the middle of nowhere.

Double rainbow during staff training!

Life as a camp counselor for YMCA Camp Roger is very interesting. I'm in the two-match fire club. I dream with camp songs in the background all the time. I wake up and go to bed cold every night. I love meal time. I currently have TEN moose points, and am very proud of it. I introduce the Brits to marvels like wheat thins and milk duds.

Sabra and I were co's for two beautiful and fun weeks.

On another note, I am really having a good time, despite the homesickness and getting woken up at unearthly hours by children. It's fantastic to see these kids grow in a week's time, from not knowing anyone and not being confident, to kids who can shoot an arrow, ride horses, have been mountain biking, know how to orienteer, and are brave enough to perform a ridiculous skit on stage at the end of the week.

Did I mention how beautiful it is up there? It's beautiful.

There are tons of funny moments too, like the kid wearing mittens in the middle of the day asking if a piece of a dodgeball was dead ice cream (because ice cream can die...?), the kid who only eats orange food, playing psh in the bathroom during an intense thunderstorm, kids making up relationships between staff, the list goes on and on. Oh the things kids say...

Soapstone Basin. So amazingly gorgeous. Now there are wildflowers too!

Now, as for the weekends, those have been superb, perfect really. Other than worrying about the hassle of getting my car fixed and such that is. I went wedding dress shopping with Jessica and went to her bridal shower, got to go to my first Real Salt Lake game with Ian's family, and have done fun things with Jen already this weekend and have seen fireworks with Ian. I also have seen both of my grandmas (points for me). It's so nice to come down to civilization and see/talk to the people I miss. Did I mention the fireworks? Love them. Utah goes all out and has tons of firework shows, which is great. :)

The Zoo and Cop Encounter

2011-06-11T19:29:00.000-06:00

Today, I went to the zoo and saw Alexis, Haley, Katie, and Kameron, as well as Sam. I loved it. HAPPY BIRTHDAY ALEXIS! :)

Today, I got rear-ended pretty badly on the way back from the zoo...a mile from my grandma's. Not cool. So now I get to deal with stuffy and upset insurance people and figure out where to get my car fixed while I'm in Park City. Oh, I feel like an adult.

Don't worry. I'm way blessed. I'm not hurt. The guy who hit me wasn't hurt, and his child wasn't in the car. The cops were way nice. The guy was way nice. I am super stressed, but I still feel at ease about the whole thing.

So I'll just go on taking baby steps forward while I count my blessings.

This is probably the most important post you'll read...

2011-06-10T11:52:00.000-06:00

Alright y'all. I am heading off to the Uinta Mountains near Park City on Sunday to be a camp counselor to hopefully angelic children (yeah...right). As I am in the mountains, rumor has it there is no cell phone service and no internet. Thus, SNAIL MAIL is the best way to contact me. I would LOVE a letter from each and every one of you...really. I would feel so special and loved. I will also write you back...and I know you all love getting letters.

The address: YMCA Camp Roger
Jill Robinson
General Delivery
Kamas, UT 84036

So yes. PLEASE write me. Please? (I'll have cell service if I leave camp...so Friday nights through Sunday mornings...I'll def try to be in touch).

In other news...I feel like God is just laughing at my life right now. The past few weeks have been a blast, and I have loved every single moment. Now that life is 99% perfect, I'm going to hide in the mountains. It makes no logical sense, but as long as God is laughing it's okay (but not really).

Oh well. It will all be okay. Everyone will have great adventures and come August 6th, life will be back to the good old days of summer...almost.

Sometimes...

2011-06-05T00:33:00.000-06:00

Sometimes, I just feel like updating, even though I don't have much of anything to say.

Sometimes, I like how a semi-complicated situation can be turned around in the blink of an eye. Okay okay...all the time.

Sometimes, I do cool things in the summertime and I love it. No worries, I will now tell you such cool things. Since getting back from the awesome cruise/California roadtrip I have: gone to my very first drive-in (SO COOL!), hiked Timpanogos Caves (oh, so full of adventure), went to the zoo (yes. the zoo...with baby elephants and lemurs), discovered a concert in a perfect little town, went to a concert in a hidden park in downtown SLC with Jen, wandered around Target to waste time with Jen, and played in other stores. Oh, I have also done random gardening tasks with my dear grandma and salted snails, because I didn't do that growing up.

Sometimes, the summer is surprisingly a million, billion times better than you ever thought it would be. I'm definitely okay with that. :)

Story of My Summer?

2011-06-02T23:51:00.002-06:00

Daylight come and we don't wanna go home.

I Caught a Little Piece of the Sunshine

2011-05-30T11:35:00.000-06:00

Well my friends, I just got back from California! Emily and I had the greatest time spending almost a week there, so yes, you can all be a little jealous. ;)

First stop? Anaheim! It was absolutely perfect! The weather was beautiful, and the sun was shining. We spent Friday and Saturday in Disneyland and California Adventure. Don't worry, we dominated Disneyland, and even did our favorite rides twice! We got to ride Star Tours before it opens officially too. We got to sit in the front seat for the Indian Jones ride (SO COOL!). We met Ariel, Belle, Tiana, Mickey, and Pluto as well and saw many other characters! Lines weren't even bad. We saw World of Color (favorite!!), the firework show at Disney, and Fantasmic! We did so much there and had a blast. I think I have an addiction to the happiest place on Earth, where dreams come true...

Disneyland!!

We met some of the princesses. Tiana was super cool!

World of Colors. My favorite.

We, of course, had to meet Mickey!

Fireworks and magic. It doesn't get better than that.

Then, we took a day to drive up to San Francisco. We stopped at Santa Monica Beach, because no on passes up an opportunity to go to an ocean. We drove Sunset Blvd and got to see how the lucky people of the world live. We saw the Hollywood Sign (for 2 seconds, but it still counts), and saw the movie premiere of Kung Fu Panda 2! We drove past millions of orange/lemon/cherry trees and finally made it to the hostel we were staying at in SF. Yes, a hostel. It was pretty much like the college dorms on campus, but a lot of the people spoke a different language.

At the beach in Santa Monica. There was an awesome pier here!

Day one in SF was awesome. We went to Chinatown and walked around and saw all the neat buildings. We ate Dim Sum for lunch and it was delish. We went to the Fortune Cookie Factory. Awesome. We then started walking to Fisherman's Wharf and stumbled upon a cute bookstore, City Lights, and explored it's 3 amazing floors. Little did we know that it was famous... At Fisherman's Wharf we walked around Pier 39, and watched the sea lions for quite a while. They were hilarious. It was super cold and windy on the piers too. We saw Alcatraz and had a very cool view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Then we walked the pier some more and ended up at Ghirardelli Square. MMM. It was great. We then walked back up Hyde Street to the hostel to take a quick nap and did some shopping at H&M. New favorite store? YES. We got free pizza at the hostel and watched a movie with some of the other hostel-stayers. It was neat.

With the TransAmerica Tower. It was cool.

We stopped at a small bay to see the bridge after Ghirardelli Square. It was super cold. haha

Day two was also great. We took the bus to Golden Gate Park (the neighborhoods and buildings in SF are AMAZING) and went to the Academy of Sciences. I loved that place so much. We saw an albino alligator and penguins and butterflies and snakes and lizzards and birds and so much more. It was way fun. We walked around the park some more (which is larger than Central Park) and went to the Botanical Gardens. They are so beautiful and separated into sections by country. The flowers and trees were so cool there. We then headed back and ate at a cute diner next to the hostel.

In the rainforest at the Academy of Sciences in Golden Gate Park

The Botanical Gardens. I love this flower oh so much.

Day three, we left for Utah. But first, we found Lombard Street (the crookedest street) and drove down it. Bam. We had walked past it on our first day in SF without even noticing it, so we had to see it before we left. We then drove back to Utah, going through Donner's Pass (the most beautiful place ever) and also driving through the Salt Flats, which I thought was neat.

All in all, it was a fantastic trip and I LOVED spending time going on adventures with Emily. I would also like to admit that I have the travel bug...

Here's to FUN.

2011-05-14T16:13:00.001-06:00

Let me just say that the past 6 days have been some of the best times of my life. It was so great, and so fun. I will give a recap of the adventures had on the best start to summer ever!

Sunday, we drove to Long Beach, CA. It was a great drive. I saw Las Vegas for the first time, in fact, I was in Nevada for the first time. Yay for first times! We played the license plate game. We talked and laughed and ate elf fudge cookies in less than five minutes.

Monday, we got on the Carnival Paradise. We ate food and explored and had a grand old time. We went swimming and hot tubbing and started making some new "friends". I tried mussels and clams for the first time...super good. We met our waitress, Tatiana, who spoke Russian and made Jaron order in Russian every night. It was great fun. We watched some of the shows they had, sang at the piano bar, and danced in a lounge with a live band. We did in fact, party like rock stars.

Waiting to get on.

The girls

Oh yeahhhh. The Queen Mary is behind us.

Tuesday, we were at Catalina Island. It was beautiful! We docked in Avalon, and wandered around the town a bit. Then we rented tandem bikes (heck yes!) and went up to the Botanical Gardens and the Museum. It was so fun. Then we went snorkeling in Lover's Cove, a marine preserve. The kelp was cool, the fish were beautiful, and the water was ice cold. Thankfully Ian brought wet suits so we didn't turn into ice cubes. Then, we repeated the evening we had on Monday, except it was formal night, so we all looked snazzy and fancy. Also, we tried to take as many pictures as possible with all the different backgrounds. They were hilarious and precious all at the same time haha.

In Catalina Island

We're cool and we ride tandem bikes.

We're adorable and it was fancy night.

Wednesday we were in Ensenada, Mexico. It was Mexico. Enough said. But we went into the country and saw some beautiful scenery and went snorkeling in a hidden and beautiful cove. We decked out head to toe in wet suits and gear and got to see some pretty cool things. There was a lot of kelp, and it was kind of creepy swimming through it, but we all survived, even Jaron who hates putting his face in water. We got to see sea urchins, star fish, sun fish, random schools of fish, and other colorful things found in the sea. It was neat. Then we got authentic fish tacos...please believe how DELICIOUS they were. mmm. And mexican coke. SO GOOD! We explored the shopping areas a bit and got souvenirs. We got authentic churros too, also delicious. Then we partied it upppp back on the ship.

Super pretty cove in Ensenada.

In our wet suits.

That's a sun fish.

FISH TACOS!

Thursday was all party and fun on the ship. We learned disco moves and played shuffleboard and battle of the sexes. We ate at the chocolate bar and talked in the sun. We wandered and ate ice cream. And then we partied all night long haha.

We played mini golf with a bunch of mormons. haha

With the ship on a stick. So much fun.

Friday, we got off, and headed to Huntington Beach. It was beautiful and warm. I loved it. We only stayed for a bit. We got In-N-Out in California and it made me very happy. We then drove all the way back to Utah, and it was so great. The trip was awesome! I loved it all, and the sunburn was worth it! :)

Huntington Beach!

This is not a dream.

2011-05-14T10:27:00.000-06:00

Alright. Some of you may think I'm dead...but I'm not. I just went on a cruise with some fantastic friends, and it was a blast. Do not worry, a post dedicated to the cruise is sure to come. I just want to share with y'all how much I love fun, sun, adventures, dancing, singing at the top of my lungs, "ocean", walking in the sand on a beach, and having no worries. It was great.

Then to top it all off, I got four A's and one A- this semester, and I feel so great about it. That gave me a GPA for the semester of a 3.95. I'll probably never see that again...

I also got to eat at In-N-Out in California, so that's way legit. You can be jealous.

Lastly, let me tell you some of the cool things we saw. We saw...dolphins jumping off into the sunset (twice), a double rainbow all the way across the sky, beautiful scenery in Mexico and Catalina Island, kelp forests, fishies, sea urchins, crabs, star fish and sun fish, a gazillion mormons on a cruise, and pelicans dive into the water. Too cool...

Tick Tock

2011-05-07T17:36:00.000-06:00

I can't wait until I know everything and have no more questions.
I can't wait until I am successful in real life.
I can't wait until everything is never impossible.

Why is it that you only come to realize when you look back in the rear-view mirror?

I'm defying gravity and you can't pull me down.

2011-05-06T02:46:00.000-06:00

Well, today was quite an adventure, so I'm dedicating this post to Patsy, one of my favorite people ever! :)

First off, I got an A in my technology class, where I hardly put any effort in, and didn't do one of the assignments. Sometimes, I feel like I work the system. Secondly, I got a 98% on my SPED 4000 final! And you know what, I feel proud of myself, and it feels great.

Anyway, Josie and I went to Boise to see Wicked! today. What a great first day of summer!! IT WAS AMAZING! I was completely blown away, and it was unbelievable to see so much talent in one theater. The singing, acting, dancing, stage effects, etc etc etc...It was all incredible! It was also springtime hardcore in Boise and it was just beautiful. :) Boise is a great city...too bad it's five hours deep in the middle of nowhere.

After the musical, in front of the Boise River.

SUCH A GREAT EXPERIENCE!

Then, we headed back to Logan, but we stopped in Twin Falls for a quick dinner and ended up at the temple. Twin Falls is my most favorite place in Idaho, and if I have to live in Idaho, it had better be in Twin Falls. It is 110% beautiful.

Twin Falls Temple.

Tulips are so so pretty. :)

I love Twin Falls...are you catching on?

It was so so awesome to see THE Snake River, and realize it made this beautiful canyon in Twin Falls.

We enjoyed a great drive back, took a slight detour through Pocatello, and got rear-ended. Neat. It was the cherry on top of my emotional sundae, so the GREAT day I had sort of plummeted. Thankfully, no damage was done (well, no obvious damage, I'll check in the morning and see).

However, through it all, I came to the realization in a 10 hour drive how blessed I am and how grateful I am for everything that has happened this school year, good and bad. I have grown so much and "because I knew you, I have changed for good."

After that busy day, you'd think I'd crash but no...something in my stupid mind of mine decided to make me pack pretty much everything, even though I have all of Friday to do it. Yes, everything that is legitimately packed is in my car. I hate leaving, but I packed anyway. I don't get myself (ever).

Why would I ever want to leave this? (This picture would be golden if Katie and Chelsey were in it...)

Here's to you, Fall 2010 & Spring 2011. Thanks for being great, for making me laugh, sending me to great places, and allowing me to make precious memories with the people I love. I wouldn't trade you for anything. :)

P.S. If you read this entire blog, I'll give you brownie points... You know you want some delish brownies.

Take my hand in the meantime, let's walk into the sunshine

2011-05-03T16:40:00.002-06:00

When you should be studying for finals, weird things happen.

I ended up looking at cool pictures/quotes. The last one is dedicated to my roommates, who I love dearly and can't imagine not living with them 24/7. They're all the greatest and this whole school year was fantastic because I got to live with them. I like you! :)

"I’m off on a rocketship prepared for something new

I’m off on a rok-it-ship ecstatic with the view
I am scared of the things upcoming
And I want for the things I don’t have
Cannot stand to be one of many
I’m not what they are
We'll gather in my name
The morning will begin
It's all or nothing over there
It's teasing me again"
-Rocketship by Guster

I'm thinking that's why I still love it here.

2011-04-30T17:44:00.002-06:00

Today, I studied for finals for four long hours in the library. Do I feel even a bit prepared? Nope.

Also, the most fulfilling and even fun thing I did today was run on this trail. It connects Green Canyon to Logan Canyon. I freaking love it. There are some amazing views and it's just so beautiful, even if it is a bit long for me. I hate that I am leaving Logan in a week, I just love it (when it's warm).

Spontaneous is so fantastic, and Lava Hot Springs is pretty cool...just saying. And even though Idaho is a lot of nothing, I secretly (not so much anymore) think it's pretty.

This is not happening to me. haha

Coney Island-Good Old War

'Cause you can grow flowers from where dirt used to be.

2011-04-26T23:43:00.000-06:00

This week has already been crazy for me, and it's only Tuesday night.

Thankfully, with all the things going on, there's moments like this:

Moments like a breathtaking sunset, or looking up from studying to see a radiant rainbow are perfect, and helps me appreciate the little things that I was fortunate enough to notice.

On another note, I want to pause time. I don't really want this year to end. In some ways I definitely do and can't wait for the change, but the other 94% just wants to keep everything how it is. Is that selfish of me? Definitely yes. Too bad.

Lastly, the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services is ranked 29th...so that's great news! I get a cookie for it, so obviously it was worth it. ;)

"If it is to be, it is up to me."

2011-04-21T21:57:00.000-06:00

[insert gratuitous picture of myself]

Done.

Alright here's the thing. Today was my last day of practicum, so that means I won't be in a classroom for oh...about 10 months. RIDICULOUS. The last days are always the best and the worst. Yes, now I have many "extra" hours to my day for a week, but being in the classroom is what I love (Dear self-Don't forget that).

The absolute best part of today was the end when my mentor teacher told the class it was my last day. They all ran up and gave me cute 8 year-old hugs and told me they were going to miss me. However the most touching hug was from "Kyle."

Kyle is diagnosed with OCD, and shows signs of autism and ADHD. He's a brilliant kid and I adore him, but he can easily get on your nerves, especially after a long day. Anywho, Kyle walks up to me and babbles on about gravity (they are learning that for units) and his super smooth eraser. He then asks where I'm going and when I'm going to be a real teacher. Then, he leaps up and wraps his arms around my neck and whispers that he'll miss me. If that moment doesn't jerk tears from your eyes, I don't know what will.

It's been amazing to see how different kids in each classroom I've been in have touched me in some way, leaving an imprint on my heart. I have absolutely loved it, even though the days are endlessly long and nothing ever goes according to the plan.

2011-04-20T16:34:00.000-06:00

"My world is full of loveliness, but I focus on the stress."

You may say that I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one.

2011-04-18T08:04:00.001-06:00

Here I sit on a "homework day" at work, eating vegan (and surprisingly delicious) cookies and watching the rain flood campus.

And what am I realizing?

My life is wonderful!

Sure, there are the rainy days where I'm tired, sore, and have to give a presentation and take a test that wasn't taught very well.

But...those days don't happen often.

My days consist of laughter, joy, music, friends and amazing roommates, and making the best memories possible. I even love learning in classes and going to practicum. The little simple things make every moment so absolutely fantastic. Sometimes I forget how great my life is, and this idea slips my mind...but I will work on not forgetting how blessed and lucky I am. Because I really am super lucky/blessed/fortunate and that makes my life awesome.

Oh, we're just enjoying a lovely Monday morning.

On another note, I'M SO EXCITED FOR MAY! (but only the adventure part, not so much the whole say-goodbye-to-my-friends-for-three-months part).

Daylight's coming, the sun is blazing

2011-04-08T08:12:00.002-06:00

Friday mornings at work are slow, and the snow sucks.

Anywho, I have absolutely nothing to say. I could write an entire post complaining about the snow, but I won't.

You want to know some of my favorite conference quotes? Okay.

Desires dictate our priorities, priorities shape our choices, and choices determine our actions. The desires we act on determine our changing, our achieving, and our becoming. -Dallin H. Oaks

We have great cause for concern. But we do not need to let our fears displace our faith. We can combat those fears by strengthening our faith. -Russell M. Nelson

Unfailing faith is fortified through prayer. Your heartfelt pleadings are important to Him. -Russell M. Nelson

The love the Savior described is an active love. It is not manifested through large and heroic deeds but rather through simple acts of kindness and service. -M. Russell Ballard

Hope can inspire dreams and spur us to realize those dreams. Hope alone, however, does not cause us to succeed. Many honorable hopes have gone unfulfilled, shipwrecked on the reefs of good intentions and laziness. -Steven E. Snow

Our hope in the Atonement empowers us with eternal perspective. Such perspective allows us to look beyond the here and now on into the promise of the eternities. We don’t have to be trapped in the narrow confines of society’s fickle expectations. We are free to look forward to celestial glory, sealed to our family and loved ones. -Steven E. Snow

Too often we attend meetings and nod our heads; we might even smile knowingly and agree. We jot down some action points, and we may say to ourselves, “That is something I will do.” But somewhere between the hearing, the writing of a reminder on our smartphone, and the actual doing, our “do it” switch gets rotated to the “later” position. Brethren, let’s make sure to set our “do it” switch always to the “now” position! -Dieter F. Uchtdorf

The spirit of revelation is available to every person who receives by proper priesthood authority the saving ordinances of baptism by immersion for the remission of sins and the laying on of hands for the gift of the Holy Ghost—and who is acting in faith to fulfill the priesthood injunction to “receive the Holy Ghost.” ... Sincere desire and worthiness invite the spirit of revelation into our lives. -David A. Bednar

Those who understand the eternal blessings which come from the temple know that no sacrifice is too great, no price too heavy, no struggle too difficult in order to receive those blessings. There are never too many miles to travel, too many obstacles to overcome, or too much discomfort to endure. -Thomas S. Monson

Pure love is an incomparable, potent power for good. Righteous love is the foundation of a successful marriage. -Richard G. Scott

f we sincerely desire and strive to measure up to the high expectations of our Heavenly Father, He will ensure that we receive all the help we need, whether it be comforting, strengthening, or chastening. -D. Todd Christofferson

No, in matters of discipleship the Church is not a fast-food outlet; we can’t always have it “our way.” Some day every knee shall bow and every tongue confess that Jesus is the Christ and that salvation can only come His way.....if we teach by the Spirit and you listen by the Spirit, some one of us will touch on your circumstance, sending a personal prophetic epistle just to you. -Thomas S. Monson

Ask me next week or even tomorrow, and I'll tell you different quotes, but they will be just as good if not better. :)

to know me as hardly golden is to know me all wrong.

2011-04-05T00:21:00.002-06:00

Okay okay, so I love school and most of y'all knew that. However, I detest my online class, but I liked our project we did this week so I'm sharing it with you here. It's supposed to be a five minute presentation about anything, so I of course chose Austin, ATX, the 512. :) Since it's a presentation, it's just a rough outline, but still. I thought it was cool.

On another note, general conference was FANTASTIC. If you don't know what I'm talking about, here is a link to the April 2011 general conference. Every talk was great and the spirit was so strong. I loved how Elder Holland said that if we, as members of the church, sincerely prayed and studied about a topic, it would be mentioned in general conference, and boy was that true. I don't know which talk was my favorite...yet, and I'm looking forward to the May Ensign so I can read them (and look at pictures).

Lastly, my day was made by finding this. Who knows how long it was outside our door, but seriously. SO sweet. Thanks to whoever thought to do such a kind thing...no matter how exaggerated it is. :)

Also, blogger came out with a new way to view blogs...and this is my favorite. Mosaic is so cool!

Spring has brought me such a nice surprise.

2011-04-01T23:32:00.000-06:00

So much has happened in the past 7 days.
I should specify: so much good has happened.
It's been grand, happy, and an adventure to say the least. AND the weather has been beautiful! I played outside (like the good college kid I am) for a good three hours today. I loved every warm minute of it!

To top it all off, I get to spend the weekend doing something I love, while playing with my dogs.
Holla.

P.s. Check this out. It's hilarious, and way entertaining.

A penny for my thoughts, oh no, I'll sell 'em for a dollar.

2011-03-28T23:18:00.003-06:00

No matter what, the gospel is always there, waiting for us to lean on it. Whether we experience heartache or joy, it waits for us to turn to and accept it, to accept Him. Our perspective can hinder or support us throughout our journey in this life. The past few days have been eye-opening, and just what I've needed.
Also, a scripture that I love. 2 Nephi 11: 4-8. Why? Because my soul delighteth.

I've also been thinking about this poem the past little bit, so I thought I'd share it on here.

Footprints
One night I had a dream--
I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord
and across the sky flashed scenes from my life.
For each scene I noticed two sets of footprints,
one belonged to me and the other to the Lord.
When the last scene of my life flashed before me,
I looked back at the footprints in the sand.
I noticed that many times along the path of my life,
there was only one set of footprints.
I also noticed that it happened at the very lowest
and saddest times in my life.
This really bothered me and I questioned the Lord about it.
"Lord, you said that once I decided to follow you,
you would walk with me all the way,
but I have noticed that during the most troublesome times in my life
there is only one set of footprints.
"I don't understand why in times when I needed you most,
you should leave me."
The Lord replied, "My precious, precious child,
I love you and I would never, never leave you
during your times of trial and suffering.
"When you saw only one set of footprints,
it was then that I carried you."

-.Mary Stevenson

So take one petal at a time and toss it to the ground.

2011-03-28T08:10:00.000-06:00

Can I just say that it's soooo great to have something to look forward to?
I am SO STOKED for May 18th!!

On another note, I popped a blood vessel in my eye...it sounds scary but it's really just lame. Thankfully it's not that bad and you can't really tell unless you look. The thing that sucks is that I'm not supposed to wear contacts til it's better, and I'm already sick of wearing my glasses. Bah.

Lastly, I love my dearest, footsie pajama wearing, music-loving, and beautiful roommate. :)

My Secrets Become Your Truth.

2011-03-23T08:15:00.000-06:00

Sometimes, a drive to the middle of nowhere, Utah, fixes everything.
Yesterday was not one of those times.

Sometimes, I wonder if any of this is worth it,
but I suppose in the long run, it is.

Sometimes, I put on an invisibility cloak in the mornings...
and it works every time.

Sometimes, perspective plays hide and go seek
with fear, doubt, and uncertainty.

[The latter is winning this week]

Forever Is A Long Time...

2011-03-21T10:01:00.002-06:00

Eternity.
My favorite word, for obvious reasons. It's awesome that there can be so much joy in one word, and it's a word that is just beautiful. The things I value most I'll have for eternity, a thought that is constantly buried under thoughts of tests, stress, and many other things, but makes my heart swell with hope and joy whenever I remember. Eternity, joy without bounds, is there, waiting.

The Brigham City Temple...one of my favorite places to drive by.

I Wouldn't Mind-He is We

the kind of hope they all talk about

2011-03-17T23:42:00.001-06:00

"Life is so beautiful that death has fallen in love with it., a jealous, possessive love that grabs at what it can. But life leaps over oblivion lightly, losing only a thing or two of no importance, and gloom is but a passing shadow of a cloud." --Life of Pi by Yann Martel

I just started reading Life of Pi and I love it. I love the stories and the depth. I need to find time to finish it, but we'll see if that will happen anytime soon.

Another note, my mom and grandma came up today! It was good to see them both, and to show them how I live my life. I got to show my mom where I've been the past two years (ie the apartment, dorm, work, and some of campus). We also went to the house I would have grown up in, the mouth of Green Canyon, Second Dam, the cabin my mom's side of the family used to own, the Factory Pizzeria(can I say traditions!?), and Angie's, for pie of course. Overall, it was a great day, and I gained some valuable memorabilia from home, and cookies!

Author of the moment, can you tell me?

2011-03-14T23:40:00.003-06:00

"And if you wanted to drown, you could,
But you don't, because finally, after all
this struggle and all these years,
you don't want to anymore.
You've simply had enough of drowning
and you want to live, and you want to love.
And you'll walk across any territory,
and any darkness, however fluid,
and however dangerous to take the one
hand and the one life, you know belongs in yours."
-David Whyte

I came across this poem a while ago after another poem by him was referenced at a workshop, and I loved it enough that I wanted to share a piece of it. David Whyte has some great stuff out there.

Once upon a time, I went on an adventure. It was neat.

2011-03-12T19:58:00.000-07:00

That's right, my spring break was filled with fun, adventure, and pure epicness. Be jealous. I went to a handful of the most beautiful places that exist!

The beginning of Peek-a-boo.

First off, was Escalante...aka: the middle of nowhere. We got there saturday night...set up camp and started a huge fire. We looked at the universe (there were more stars than I have ever seen before) and then slept. Sunday, we spent all day hiking in the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. I highly recommend it. We did two of the more famous slot canyons...Spooky and Peek-a-boo. We ran up and down a sand dune. We waited for Ian to conquer "Ian's Demise" and witnessed Brian fall into a puddle. We hoisted Jaron up a giant rock with a rope. We explored and climbed and hiked and conquered. It was legit, and I loved every minute.

In Peek-a-boo slot canyon.

Monday morning we left just in time to avoid a huge snowstorm...and stopped in Capitol Reef National Park to do a quick hike. The landscape there was also beautiful, and it was foggy and drizzling...but made for a great time! We then skillfully pulled into Goblin Valley after a rainstorm had hit, leaving us to a long, cold, windy night...but at least it didn't rain or snow!

There's a giant arch behind us. A picture in ponchos was definitely necessary.

Goblin Valley State Park was legit. We played hide and go seek in the "Valley of Goblins"...definitely a fantastic thing to do. Tuesday, we went and hiked Little Wild Horse Canyon and Bell Canyon, also both very beautiful canyons, and it was the perfect day to do so. Tuesday night we also stayed up the latest, burning a ton of wood and telling stories.

The three "champs" on top of some goblins.

Lastly, we went to Arches National Park, which I also loved! We saw Landscape, Navajo, Partition, Double O, Delicate, and so many more arches. We also ended up hiking on top of fins. I felt on top of the world. The weather was also perfect, the sights beautiful, and the hiking was fantastic.

The Delicate Arch

In case you couldn't tell, I'd say this spring break was top notch, the pick of the crop, the BEST EVER. I loved every minute of it, despite being cold, sunburned, and covered in sand. This is one of those adventures I'll be telling over and over again, and never grow tired of doing so. :)

Shelbie Ann

2011-03-10T17:27:00.001-07:00

When I was about 9, my dad told us to come in the front yard because there was a surprise. We scurried outside to see a beautiful sheltand sheepdog sitting in front of the pear tree. Our years of "puppy dog pyramids" and pleading for a puppy finally paid off. We named her and played with her non-stop. She became part of the family in a matter of seconds, becoming "our" dog.

Shelbie is one of the strongest dogs out there. She survived a vicious attack by a german sheppard and is always so very happy to see us walk in the door. She chases water coming from the hose. She chases thunder. She barks only to get attention and is the sweetest and smartest dog I've met.

My mom told me that Shelbie, a purebred who is 11 1/2 years old (born on national friendship day!) is going to be put down tomorrow, and it breaks my heart again and again. She will forever be a part of my family, and I know she'll no longer be in pain anymore.

UPDATE: Shelbie is still here, and on her way to Utah! :) Due to a turn of events, Shelbie is blessings the lives of my family, one day at a time. The doctor found some better medicine for her and she's doing great! :)

Shelbie and I this summer. She was playing in the dirt and chasing water from the hose.

There's a Yellow Rose in Texas...

2011-03-02T09:16:00.000-07:00

Happy Texas Independence Day!
and
Happy Birthday Dr. Suess!

Texas: The Lone Star State. and the BEST state.

I just love Texas and the fact that we have our own independence day. I wish I was home so I could celebrate at Chuy's or Taco Cabana in the warm sunshine...but I'll just celebrate from 1600 miles away where Dr. Suess is the only thing important today (don't give me wrong I LOVE that guy).
Seriously though. Is there another state with an independence day?
Precisely.
Texas is the best of the fifty nifty United States.

I would lay my armor down.

2011-03-01T01:30:00.000-07:00

Sunday was a gem, and that gem is already in my treasure chest. I love being able to see the Lord's hand at work. :)

On another note, Wackee Six (or wackee sticks haha) is back and in full swing. love ittttt.

Lastly, this week will be great. I will be super productive and (hopefully) achieve my ridiculously long list of goals. Here's to knocking on wood and crossing my fingers.

'cause every day the current shifts.

You Are A Fire, You Are Dynamite.

2011-02-25T18:01:00.002-07:00

The past three days have been good news followed by good news. The second piece of great news came in a letter saying this:

Congratulations! You have been selected to receive a scholarship from the Dean's Office Department in the Emma Eccles Jones College of Education and Human Services. The scholarship offer is as follows:

Seely Hinckley Scholarship

Fall 2011 - Tuition & Student Body Fees & Spring 2012 - Tuition & Student Body Fees

Pretty exciting right!? I think so. When I was applying for scholarships (a very, very easy process), I thought I could maybe get $500 or $1000, not two semesters! I once again feel like I'm doing the right things, and am in the right major.

On another note, Lauren tagged me in her blogpost about fifteen things, and I can't go letting a dear friend down sooo... here goes. Fifteen unique (or almost unique) things about me:

1. I have a love-hate relationship with winter. Right now, the snow has got to end.
2. I love reading. Put me in front of a fireplace with a great book, and I will be purely happy.
3. If I discover a song I love, I will listen to it over and over and over....
4. I crave adventure and spontaneity. Whether it be a little thing or a humongous thing, let's go do it! :)
5. I hate putting myself in situations where I have to step out of my comfort zone...but those situations have come to be the ones I have ended up treasuring the most.
6. I love love love Dr. Pepper. It will always beat Coke, no matter how you compare the two. True fact. Mountain Dew on the other hand can give DP a run for it's money.
7. If I tell you I'm sick, I really am sick. I hate admitting I'm not feeling 100% and will pretend to feel fine unless I am sick beyond help or can't tolerate it anymore.
8. Even though I diss on Utah quite a bit (hey...a Texas girl has got to stay true to her #1 state), I find Utah to be a very beautiful place and have loved being in Utah the past year and a half.
9. I have a huge desire to travel. Far and wide, nearby or not. I want to go everywhere and experience everything. That shouldn't be too hard to accomplish ;)
10. I am just learning this year that I talk and mumble in my sleep. Anybody know any cures?
11. The future freaks me out...still. I pretend to be alright with it, but seriously. I am too young to grow up. I can't even imagine being 22 with a college degree...it's absurd, but it's reality I guess.
12. I love music, and I love discovering music, or sharing a band with someone that they end up loving.
13. This has been my favorite number since the fourth grade...how neat.
14. I love going to bed at night feeling fulfilled and accomplished, which doesn't happen as often as I'd like it to.
15. I am learning that I am actually fearful of learning to ski or snowboard...but I still have the desire to learn. It will be interesting to see if fear or adventure win this one...

Also, I tag Katlin, Alexis, Katie, and whoever else reads this ridiculous blog to do the same thing.

I am pleased to announce...

2011-02-24T08:18:00.001-07:00

what a lame picture...but you get the idea.

I have a summer job! I will be working at YMCA Camp Roger in the Uinta Mountains, east of Park City. I start June 12th and will be there until August 5th. I get Friday from 8:30 pm to Sunday at 1pm off. I am really excited, and can't wait to work with kids and be in the beautiful mountains of Utah for an entire summer! Also, the first week of camp is Harry Potter themed. Obviously, it's a great job for me. :)

The Mud Monster

2011-02-23T08:36:00.000-07:00

For President's Day weekend, Jen and I decided to be awesome. We drove down to Salt Lake and "hiked" to Ensign Peak. It may sound like it's really high, and a hard hike...but it's not. It's like walking up a hill. However, challenges were in front of us the whole time and we accepted them. The mud was a challenge we didn't see coming. It glopped to our shoes and brought uncontrollable laughter. It brought Jen to the ground at least three different times...covering her in mud. HILARIOUS. The rain and fog was foreseeable, but we didn't take preventative measures and just confronted it head first. Anyway, this is Ensign Peak...and the fog that was in Salt Lake Valley.
One of the many times Jen fell. She made lots of giggly-screaming noises. She became the Mud Monster...a suitable title for someone with mud caked to their butt...and hands...and boots...and knees.

This was a great idea I had. It was as Jen was getting up from falling, so I decided to take a picture, knowing she was going to end up slipping again. One of the best pictures I've ever taken followed, and I just love it.

Jen and I in the car afterwards. I was just loving it, and this is Jen's "why did I have to be the mud monster" face. It was a grand adventure.

Love is...

2011-02-17T08:17:00.002-07:00

the hug you get from a seven-year old when she sees you after five days. Love is when 23 kids smile at you and enthusiastically share about all their grand adventures. Love is the one boy reaching out and sitting next to the "weird kid"...the weird kid who loves everyone no matter what. Love is all around us, and I am truly blessed to see it every day growing amongst a classroom of first graders.

First graders rock. It sucks getting so intertwined in their daily life just to say goodbye forever in a mere two and a half more classes. They have touched my life in numerous ways and I am deeply grateful and humbled.

What Am I Learning?

2011-02-11T00:27:00.002-07:00

Being in class all day on Mondays, and the same classroom for four consecutive hours gives me more than enough time to think, which led to this delightful post. I have started to contemplate what has brought me to the very spot I sit in now, and what I have learned or am in the process of learning this school year. So, here goes...

I'm a fighter for the most important things.
I LOVE teaching! Three cheers for choosing the right major!
I am far more trusting than I ever thought I could be yet...
I have an endless amount of walls up.
The little things matter most.
I appreciate when everything is clean and orderly.
I love Relief Society (don't tell my mom).
My relationships with my parents are continuously growing, and that gives me joy.
I am ME. I am independent, reliable, and don't need people to tell me what to do...but I still like the guidance :)
The temple is my favorite place in Cache Valley, or any point the temple is clearly visible from.
I don't love texting as much anymore.
I need to be less judgemental.
I am recognizing blessings more and more, and I am full of gratitude. The tender mercies in my life never seem to cease no matter what my mood is.
The church is STILL true.
I'm a people person, even if I'm in a bad mood I'm happier with friends around.
I love providing service for others, even if it's in the littlest of ways.
I still have absolutely no guts.
I wish everyone realized how amazing the Gospel is and that it brings blessings and miracles incomprehensible to us into our lives.
My self-esteem is lower than I thought, and I need to work on that.
When I sacrifice time to go to the gym, I am happier and feel productive.
The innocence that children possess gives me hope for the future.
If my life seems to be going to well, it will come crashing down hard and fast. Tried and tested multiple times...it always seems to be true.
Patience is becoming my strength, not a weakness.
I love cooking and trying new recipes. I wish I had the time, money, and energy to cook delicious meals every day.
Jeans are my best friend. Wearing dress pants three times a week is not warm nor extremely comfortable. On the opposite hand, jeans are.
I will always be learning something.

I know I am not ready to face anything this world has to hurl at me, but I'm willing to give it a shot. I am grateful to have such fantastic friends who stand by my side through the thick and thin, the cold and freezing cold.

Oh Austin, I miss you. And kayaking in February.

Losing My Shadow

2011-02-08T21:06:00.000-07:00

4 1/2 year ago at the "Antler House"

I just got off the phone with my mom. My dog will cease to be on this earth on Friday. Talk about heart-wrenching news. I love Shadow, and I've loved him since the day he found me.

It was a very cold, dark January 29th, and I was getting ready in the morning. I had a basketball game (middle school cause i'm that talented haha) that day so I was up a few minutes earlier than normal to make sure I grabbed everything before seminary. I walked through the family room and heard a noise outside. It creeped me out so my 14 year old awkward self ran back to my room. I decided it was my imagination so I bolted across the house and heard the noise again. I ran in and awoke my dad, as I fear looking outside if it's dark. He got up, and saw a small, dark dog in our yard. It became my task to try to get the dog inside, and find out if it had tags. The poor chocolate brown chihuahua was shaking like it was a 9.7 m earthquake. Eventually he literally hopped into my arms and I carried him inside. Our bond was created: he was MY dog.

After a week of hunting for the owners, we decided to keep him, and named him Shadow, since he was afraid of his own shadow. He became part of the family; got a nickname ("The Rat') and slept right next to me in bed. I loved having that extra warmth next to me, even in Texas. He loved me, and I loved him. He would get excited when I came home from school and got along extremely well with Shelbie. He was very protective of me, and didn't like men being around, which led to humorous moments at the front door haha.

Now, Shadow is probably 16 years old and struggling. He's been losing his teeth for quite a while, hates eating, and excludes himself from everything and everyone. he has trouble jumping on the couch to sit by my mom and brother, and has a tumor on his leg.

Shadow has been my constant companion for the past handful of years and I love him deeply. Shadow is part of my forever family, and I can't wait to see him again. I'm glad I had the chance to see him this summer one last time.

2011-02-06T22:22:00.003-07:00

Do you read between the lines?

...because I do.

Good Old War

2011-02-06T02:43:00.003-07:00

This band and album have spoken volumes to me over the past few days. I love it. It's some great chill driving music. I suggest you check it outttt.

Tracks:
1. Good
2. Here Are The Problems
3. My Own Sinking Ship
4. Making My Life
5. Old
6. That's Some Dream
7. Sneaky Louise
8. Get Some
9. While I'm Away
10. Woody's Hood Boogie Woogie
11. My Name's Sorrow
12. World Watching
13. I Should Go
14. Thinking of You
15. War
16. World Watching (Kitchen and Living Room Demo)
17. Loud Love

Ahead of the Bell Curve.

2011-02-04T00:14:00.000-07:00

I strongly recommend the February Ensign. We haven't gotten a copy of it yet, but the internet is just the greatest.

I secretly like first grade and the cute, adorable, and silly things that are said. :)

To my roommates: Thanks for remembering my love for black licorice. You're (all!) my best friend!

Why yes, I'm getting up in 6 hours.

2011-01-31T00:16:00.000-07:00

I'm in favor of skipping the entire month of February. Anyone else in? February is a month that is shortened anyway, so skipping it would save the groundhog some trouble as well. I have no optimistic thoughts for February, so if anything goes well, life will be good.

Also. I think Alexis is giving me insomnia as well. I wake up every hour and a half or so, worrying. What's on my mind (as Facebook would ask)? You'll just have to ask me in person.

And if I were fearless
Then I'd speak my truth
And the world would hear this
That's what I wish I'd do
-Let The Rain by Sara Bareilles

When opportunity smiles...

2011-01-28T07:11:00.001-07:00

take a picture. The past while I have come to realize a few things. One of them is to not run away. There have been so many times in the recent and far past that I have sprinted in order to avoid awkwardness, commitment, or even using my time for something I didn't consider a high priority.

I started my level II practicum this week at an elementary school near campus and I have loved every minute of it. The school is pretty cool for being in Logan, my mentor teacher is awesome and I couldn't have been paired with a better teacher, and the 1st graders are full of extreme cuteness and joy. There have been many days in the past when I have just wanted to quit everything I've worked toward just because I thought I didn't belong, didn't feel ready, or honestly thought I couldn't do it. But I've learned that's how I learn and grow; to be put in such situations where I can't run and have to stay put. I am extremely grateful and proud of myself that I have been able to look past all the bumps and holes to the future, and to obtaining my degree so I can do something I love.

My newest goal is jump on top of opportunities when they're handed to me rather than become a chicken and avoid possible great memories.

Lacrosse didn't happen my senior year because I ran away. It was something I dearly loved, yet just couldn't handle the unfairness that attacked me every day. I certainly miss it.

I have seen so many beautiful things this week alone that I would have certainly regretted missing. I am incredibly blessed, even if sometimes I don't feel that way. I am so grateful for every little thing I have been through, both the good and the bad.

Here's to the beautiful moments I'll be able to have in the future, as long as I keep progressing.

Not Jill...

2011-01-25T20:07:00.000-07:00

So...Jill said that I could post on her blog. This is good practice for the day that I get my own blog. Therefore, I shall do my best to make this as real a post as possible.

Things work out. That is what I have learned the last week. It really is amazing. Like the way I plan for years to graduate in Spring of 2012, then find out today that I'm going to graduate in December 2012 because of a single class that I didn't take last semester. I thought my life was coming to an end for about 5 minutes...

until talking with my advisor revealed all the amazing benefits of not graduating a whole year early. Like getting a better internship next summer, getting a better job when I graduate, and NOT taking 18 credits a semester or paying thousands of extra dollars to take summer classes. Simply better. I don't know why I avoided the idea of staying one more semester for so long. A whole new world of possibilities has opened to me! Also- how cool is it that the one book that I ordered from half.com that did not show up is also the book that turned out to be optional!! Tender mercies...

So...this is Brian signing out. Hope all the friends of Jill enjoyed this message from me. Maybe the next hack will be better. :)

Pictures are worth a thousand words. Consider this a long, really cute and adorable post. :)

2011-01-11T22:57:00.000-07:00

on the beach in Curacao.

P.s. Katlin, I updated this just for you. I loved skyping with you today!

Hello, 2011!

2011-01-06T23:16:00.000-07:00

I would like to start this new year with saying how incredibly blessed I am. The things I have currently been blessed with in my life are innumerable, and that's without adding everything I've been blessed with in my past. I am so full of gratitude. 2011 is a year that just sounds weird, but I know it will be great! :)

Today, I have been sicker than I have been in years...in fact I don't remember ever getting this sick. It sucked. My roommates were awesome though, and helped me with simple things that I didn't have the strength to do. I loveee where I live and how many worthy priesthood holders are around, and that I have the opportunity to be dating one of them :)

Tomorrow, we are burning Sullivan, our tree. We love him, but it's time for him to go.

This is Sullivan. He's...unique. :)

I'm On A Boat!

2010-12-30T20:05:00.000-07:00

Okay, you caught me, I'm in Utah. I was on a boat though, the Carnival Miracle to be exact. I have soooo much to say and show and etc etc about this cruise, probably because it was a first for me to leave the country and to be on a cruise. There are some pictures on facebook, but I have much more, and you want to see them...so come hang with me. :) Oh, Merry Christmas (late) and Happy New Year!! I can't believe a year has flown by.

The cruise was awesome. The ship itself was gigantic. The decor was Italian style...not my favorite but definitely interesting. The boat rocked the whole time, but I never felt sea sick. Yes, there were some downers and moments that weren't fun. For example, the cold, overcast weather in Aruba and Curacao and the last two sea days on board. But it's okay, because I still had a blast! Also, it was great going to different countries as they celebrated Christmas. It was an eye opener.

The back is Warm Chocolate Melting Cake. YUM!

The food was to die for. I don't know how people eat like that all the time, but I enjoyed it for a week. I pretty much always got shrimp, but i got lobster once and steak and pasta carbonara. ALL were delicious. The popular dessert was the warm chocolate melting cake. It's like heaven made of chocolate. Also, one night my appetizer was duck, and I actually loved it. Another night, Ronee got escargot to try it and so I tried it as well. It tasted great, but the texture was a bit weird for me. Also, room service was free and lunch and breakfast were buffet style. ALSO. Strawberry frozen yogurt IS MY FAVORITE. They had it all over the ship and everytime I walked past a machine I would get some. mmmm.

The islands were beautiful. Seriously. It just made me want to travel even more. Grand Turk had beautiful beaches, but was way touristy.

Grand Turk as we left. It was gorgeous.

The Dominican Republic was awesome. We got to go to Santa Domingo and we saw the National Pantheon, The Cathedral, Christopher Columbus' son's mansion and the "lighthouse" that contains the remains of Christopher Columbus. Remind me to share that story with y'all one day. I loved the people and the culture in the Dominican Republic as well. It was Spanish, and there was a ton of poverty but then also a ton of well-off people. The scenery was amazing and I loved what was called "music trees". I was bummed we werent able to see the Santa Domingo Temple, but maybe I'll be able to see that another time. BUT we did see a church building and a stake center. WAY cool!

Me and Jen at the Lighthouse where Columbus is buried.

It was Christmas day in Aruba and the capital there was amazing to see as well, even though barely anything was open. I got some sweet souvenirs there (i got something everywhere but the Dominican Republic). We went snorkeling and it was the most amazing thing ever. It was gorgeous down there even though it was overcast. I got to touch four giant blue parrot fish and I saw hundreds of other kinds of fish.

Oranjestad, Aruba. It was beautiful!

Then we hit up Curacao. It's Dutch and the architecture is breathtaking there. We also went to the beach here and went snorkeling but didnt see as much coral or fish, but it was still great. The sun even shone for an hour or so! In Curacao, Dec. 26th is the 2nd day of Christmas so the whole capital was out celebrating when we got back from snorkeling. It was way neat!

Yes, I look ridiculous, but this was in Curacao. laugh laugh laugh

I truly loved every bit of the cruise, even if I did complain a bit about being left out by certain cousins or being cold (unlimited hot chocolate!). I didnt get sunburned and I just enjoyed myself! This is a trip I hope I never forget!

The family at the 2nd formal dinner on the 2nd to last night.

Obligatory bragging that I'm done with finals and 3rd semester of college

2010-12-16T19:00:00.000-07:00

Seriously. I'm done. I don't know where the semester went or how I learned everything whattttt. Yeah. This semester has been grand, grandiose even. Go figure. Don't start talking to me about how I'm starting Level II of my program in less than a month, and that I'm halfway done with the best years of my life...I want to hit pause on today. Yep. Quick-someone go and invent that, I'll make you cookies and be your best friend :)

This time of the year makes me super nostalgic. I don't know why, but monumentous things always seem to happen to me and my family in December. Cross your fingers the only crazy thing that happens this year is me being homesick for Logan...it's already happening. How can you miss something without it being gone? Who knows.

Monumentous moment #1: Day after Christmas, 5th grade. 2001.
We were out exchanging Christmas presents and came home to find our house flooded because the master bathroom pipe had burst. My brand new blue slippers floated across three inches of water and we popped paint bubbles. I never imagined that a house could flood on the inside, but it can. Go figure. This led to a gratuitous trip to the Blue Bell Factory and three months of a baked potato bar in a hotel, sharing a bed with my sister and making a green poster about skunks. Oh the memories...

This is too familiar of a sight. I want to look at our old pictures from our house of it!

Monumentous moment #2: Day after Christmas, 10th grade. 2006.

This was the absolute toughest day of my life, followed by the absolute toughest weeks of my life. I was out babysitting for the Coopers (love them!) and came home to a family meeting that changed my view of everything. Everything in my universe was affected by my parent's divorce, but I've been able to learn so much from it.

Monumentous moment #3: Christmas Break, Freshman Year. 2009.

The first Christmas away from my family, and the first time my mom was diagnosed with cancer (don't worry she's 100% recovered now!). It was hard. Winter is hard. However, I was able to grow close to my grandma, and learn some great stories from her. I now consider my grandma as a role model and I would love to be like her when I get all cute, deaf, and wrinkly. I was also reminded how much I love being able to get lost in mountains of books; the only reason I made it through the winter break.

This is Isabelle, our first snowman. We're going to go above and beyond this year!

It's 11:14 and I'm at work on a Saturday.

2010-12-11T11:14:00.000-07:00

Hoy quiero bailar solo contigo.
Y hoy quiero sonar que te eres mio.
Hoy te dare todo mi amor en un abrazo.

I wish I could actually say that.
Also, I am incredibly blessed and I don't understand why I am so lucky. It's not fair to everyone else at all.

I've been sick the past few days (gasp...yes I did actually just admit it) and it's so nice that everyone has been understanding. Also. I really just want to get better, especially with finals in 3 and 4 days.

This was a dumb blog post. I apologize. I wanted to blog, but I'm lame.

I love to see the temple...

2010-12-04T14:01:00.000-07:00

You may be wondering what has been taking up the few moments of free time I have. I heard about The Logan Temple: The First 100 Years at the end of the summer, and since then I have been trying to find it to read it. Josie, one of my beloved co-workers learned of my quest and let me borrow it from her!

It truly is a fantastic book. I have loved reading all the stories, trials, and faith-building experiences that the early Latter Day Saints in Cache Valley faced, especially when building the temple. I have so much more appreciation for the Logan Temple now and I feel so blessed to be so near it. I have also enjoyed sharing some of the stories contained in the book with others...poor Alexis has to listen to me ramble on and on about it, especially yesterday.

Did you know...
-that the same rock used to build the temple was used to build Old Main?
-that originally, the temple was painted white with a pink hue?
-that the artwork originally contained inside the temple was valued over $30,000 in 1917?
-almost the entire interior of the temple was burned in 1917?
-that the temple grounds contain various rare trees for the West?
-that they have to keep redoing the roof due to poor weather and design?
-that it was one of the first four temples built?
-that men used to have dances at the sawmill, so often that they got in trouble?

Well. I know all of that. haha.

Those are just a very small amount of the cool things I've learned. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in some fantastically awesome stories! :)

Welcome Christmas!

2010-11-27T23:25:00.000-07:00

Around the world Christmas is now being celebrated! Today, Jen and I set up the tree for our grandma. It was fantastic, and we spent a good amount of time reminiscing about Christmas when we were children. That's another thing I love about Christmas: traditions. My favorites are:
1. driving around neighborhoods on Christmas Eve, in the back of the suburban with blankets, making sure to visit the dalmation houses and the CD christmas tree.
2. drinking Martinelli's. Enough said.
3. Sneaking down to see all the presents at a ridiculous hour in the morning, and then pretending to be surprised when I snuck down with my brother and sister. Good timessss.
4. Making, and eating Mom's fudge, polish tea cookies, and other treats people would bring by. Mmmm.
5. Putting up the Christmas lights in the front yard. That was totally my thing. And my dad helped, of course.

So yes. I'm very excited for the season of Christmas. I love it like I love the fact that when I was a kid I could climb up a tree and pick mistletoe. Gotta miss those days.

P.S. I still dream of a White Christmas. Maybe next year?

14 Degrees

2010-11-24T17:20:00.000-07:00

I like Thanksgiving. I love family. I wish I could have my family more united.

Anyway, I am so very grateful for books and the power of getting lost in a story. I have only been in Roy for less than 24 hours and I have already finished an entire novel. It's fantastic. It would be better if I could read in front of a fireplace though. But still. I will never forget the many summers (and entire school years) I spent reading as a kid, just so have a huge list of book titles saved on "the kid's computer." It made me super excited when I realized I read multitudes more than my brother and sister. Sorry, but I'm competitive. I'm fairly certain I earned a valued trip to Six Flags in fifth grade for reading more than 600 pages. I love having time to read whatever I want. One day, I want a library. That would be fantastic. You know, it would fit in with the castle I'll be living in. JOKE.

I am also grateful for the sun. Although I haven't actually seen it today, it usually brings warmth and happiness to my soul. However, the sun did manifest itself to produce a beautiful sunset. I love all the colors that can be created during a sunrise or sunset. The sun is my friend, but not when it burns me. I'm excited for springtime when it shows itself after months and months, because everyone appreciates it!

I wish everyone a happy thanksgiving, full of laughter, food, and mostly, pie. :)

Just Do It.

2010-11-23T01:02:00.000-07:00

I am grateful for adventures today. Why? We may or may not have gone "exploring" in the canyon with an ax. It was festive and jolly. It was cold and wet. It was funny and the best. I can now check that off my list of things to do!

Today, I am also grateful for life. And the small and simple promptings of the Holy Ghost. I was walking home from work today. (p.s. to those Texans not here, it's snowing. A LOT. There's a blizzard warning for tomorrow.) I had been considering changing up my route, to make it more exciting, but I decided against it and waited for the light to change and walked the normal way home. A few feet before 900 N., a car hits another car and runs onto the sidewalk, directly parallel from me. I cannot even begin express how grateful I am to have followed that prompting I didn't even recognize, and that I am 100% healthy. I know my Heavenly Father knows me and loves me (and everyone else...but hey, it's my blog so there). I'm so grateful to have the ability to recognize and appreciate the small and simple things in my life.

Snowy pine trees.

2010-11-22T00:36:00.000-07:00

Dear Gratitude,

You're fun. I like you.

Love, Me.

For the 20th, I am for sure grateful for socks. Sounds like a random, absurd thing to be grateful for, but they make me so happy. I love having on colorful, warm, long, and sometimes mismatching socks. Not very many people see my socks, so it's always a surprise of color and awesome. I'm pretty sure if someone gave me socks, I'd be more than pleased.

On the 21st of November, I am grateful for many things, but I choose to be grateful publicly for being able to notice the small and simple things. I like noticing the snow pile up on the pine trees. I love watching the birds fly around in the snow, as if they were jet planes. I enjoyed today when Brian pointed out how awesome it looks when snow falls under light posts. I love the smell of new books and the sound of leaves crunching as I walk. The small things make my life so much more enjoyable. :)

P.S. I'm grateful for sundays, especially the ones I've had since I've been in Logan.

P.P.S. I LOVE WACKEE SIX.

Well, Harry Potter was fan-freaking-tastic.

2010-11-19T07:57:00.000-07:00

I am so grateful for technology. I love the modern world, even though it can be overwhelming a lot of the time. Why be thankful for technology? Easy. Harry Potter. I could just end there, but I won't. Movies. Cell phones. Internet (email, facebook, blogging...). Cars. Radio. Airplanes. Google Maps. Texting. All of these are just so great, even though in the long run too much can hinder a society.

Today, I am grateful for landscapes. Being from Austin, I grew up appreciating the hill country and the view of Austin's skyline (which is beautiful too). However, in the past 3 years, I have come to LOVE other landscapes. The mountains that tower over me every day, the east coast forests, the changing of seasons...They take my breathe away and I love that I have the chance to appreciate it, even though sometimes I forget how much I enjoy it. Also, a bonus of Utah is how diverse the landscape is. I love how you can drive seven hours and be in a completely different place, surrounded by radiate red rocks. Yep. I love scenery. :)

Taken from the Smiley Face :)

I'm all registered for classes!

2010-11-17T00:19:00.000-07:00

Well I've had a sore throat the past two days, and if there is one thing I hate to be sick with, it's a sore throat. Oh well.

Anyway. Number 15, I think.
I'm grateful for the ability to understand and connect with people. It's sounds like a weird thing to be grateful for, I know. All that matters is that it makes sense to me. I LOVE being able to connect with different people in different stages of life, and hearing their life stories, and seeing how unique everyone is. Also, I love when someone you are around has the same train of thought as myself. It's fantastic.

And you can't forget number 16.
Something very important to me and my life is MUSIC. I would be so lost without it. I love alll kinds of music, and yes, even country. Speaking of which, the song of the past few days is Then-Brad Paisley. It's just super cute and I like it a lot. A;so, the new T. Swift album. It's killerrrrr. Anyway, I feel like music is a great way for one to express themself, to be able to relate to, and to attach memories to. Music is a huge part of who I am, and I wouldn't trade it for anything.

Four Minutes Younger.

2010-11-14T14:30:00.000-07:00

Today, I am grateful for my sister, my twin sister to be exact. It's not like I have another sister to be grateful for, but specifying the twin-quality makes our relationship just awesome. This weekend she came up to Logan, met a lot of my friends, and got to experience a night as an Aggie. I really do love her, especially when she laughs. It's fantastic. So yes, stay sweet, Jennifer. Good times will continue to occur.

We're awesome. And twin gingers. hahaha

How typical...

The Oak Tree

2010-11-13T00:54:00.000-07:00

I feel so full of gratitude for everything it may start spewing out of my ears. I am really enjoying looking back on my day, my week, the years, and my life. In doing so, I have come to the conclusion that I am immensely grateful for the people who have been put in my life to set a good example for me and my siblings, who have been at my side through the thick and the thicker, and have just smiled at me. People who have sang me a song over the telephone, eaten chocolate cake with me, gone kayaking, eaten terrible mexican food at absurd hours of the night, and so many others. I wouldn't be who I am today if it weren't for those people, and I am eternally grateful to them.

I really like this poem, and I can't think of another post where it would fit more perfectly. Elder Ballard read this at the CES fireside last sunday, and it was great.

A mighty wind blew night and day

It stole the oak tree’s leaves away

Then snapped its boughs and pulled its bark

Until the oak was tired and stark

But still the oak tree held its ground

While other trees fell all around

The weary wind gave up and spoke.

How can you still be standing Oak?

The oak tree said, I know that you

Can break each branch of mine in two

Carry every leaf away

Shake my limbs, and make me sway

But I have roots stretched in the earth

Growing stronger since my birth

You’ll never touch them, for you see

They are the deepest part of me

Until today, I wasn’t sure

Of just how much I could endure

But now I’ve found, with thanks to you

I’m stronger than I ever knew

Cranberry Sauce.

2010-11-12T00:08:00.000-07:00

The title of this blog post has no relevance to the content. Why? Just because...

This gratitude thing is pretty much consuming 57% of all my thoughts lately. That's quite a large amount. But I couldn't even think of a better place to have my heart.

Today, the 11th, I am grateful for my roommates, shout out to Katie and Alexis. No matter if I'm having a bad day, or the best day of my life they are always there for me. They make me laugh when I want to cry, and laugh even harder when I'm already laughing. We're weird, and I just love it so much.

Yep, this is from the YBU game. Be jealous you didn't paint your face.

For the 10th, I'm grateful for having a job. Also, I;m grateful for having a ridiculously awesome job. Do I need to mention that I love my job and the absurd things that happen at it? It's fantastic and I don't know why anyone would ever, ever want to leave. It's like a vortex. A vortex of love, life, and yes, even liberty. Quinney Library, and Patsy: I love you. But that's a confession the universe already knew.

It's before midnight and I'm in bed. Weird.

2010-11-09T23:38:00.000-07:00

Human vs. Zombies at USU.

Why yes, this makes me happy. And I'm in the video on the side. Pretty neat, if i do say so myself.

Today, on the 9th, I am thankful for the opportunity to receive a higher education. Despite what I act like, I'm a huge nerd and love learning. I wish I could just go to classes and learn, and not have to worry about receiving a good grade. I am not so thankful for the amount of tests I have to take.

I had the time of my life fighting dragons with you :)

2010-11-09T01:04:00.000-07:00

November 7th- I am grateful for my extended family. Although it may be hard to tell, I do love them, even with all the fighting between cousins that occurs. Oh, and I love seeing gallons of chocolate milk disappear in seconds. I look up so much to my Grandma and my aunt Robyn and I don't know where I would be without their examples in my life.
November 8th- I am grateful for goodnight kisses. Any kind, all the time. Never have I ever felt so much peace and so much love prior going to bed. Tender, right? But really. So sweet :)

Also, the new Taylor Swift album is absolutely amazing. My current favorites on the new album are Long Live, Mine, and Sparks Fly. If you haven't checked out this album, I highly suggest you do so.

Peace out! Hopefully I'll get a fridge-worthy grade on my music quiz tomorrow...laughlaughlaugh.

Cultivate an Attitude of Gratitude

2010-11-06T16:36:00.000-06:00

Well, I've decided to blog about things I'm grateful for during the month of November. Also, I'm going to come up for something for every day of the month. Hopefully this will go well.

I'm grateful for:
1. Being a Utah State Aggie. It's where I'm supposed to be and I fit in here like the missing piece to a jigsaw puzzle.
2. The people who love me and care about me. This includes the roommates, family, neighbors, and the strangers that smile at me when I walk by.
3. The changing of seasons and the beauty of the Earth.
4. Starry nights and shooting stars. :)
5. Being a Texan and being raised in Austin. I couldn't have chosen a better placed to be raised myself.
6. Music. Enough said.

On another note, Human vs. Zombies was superrrr awesome! It was so great. Everyone on campus, even those who weren't playing loved it. Everyone was talking to people they has never seen before, and enjoying themselves. It was one awesome game.

Blessings.

2010-10-28T09:30:00.001-06:00

Count your many blessings
name them one by one
and it will surprise you
what the Lord has done.

I left my legacy.

2010-10-24T23:58:00.000-06:00

Homecoming, when fully experienced, is awesome. Seriously. This week has been the best week of my life (or at least of lately). That may or may not have something to do with the awesome people around me (shout out to Katie who isn't Alexis' option number one).

Anyway. Paint dance. LEGEN.....(wait for it)

DARY. It's true. It was. And we glowed in black lights!

Tuesday was cool. We watched Toy Story 3. SO AWESOME. Why have I not seen that movie before? I've been missing out.

Wednesday, Brian and I made cookies. Yep, it was precious. Be jealous of my life.

Thursday just sort of happened. Honestly I can't remember what I was up to. That's how awesome my week was.

Friday was the perfect day. Really. If i bottled the day, perfection would be in a bottle. I would sell it for $300 billion dollars, because that's how much I value it. After a long day of getting an A on a challenging social inequality paper, getting free scotsmans, and failing a juvenile delinquency test, I got to go to the pumpkin walk. What is the pumpkin walk, you ask? Easy. It's like Trail of Lights, but during October and with pumpkins, squash, etc. Way cool. Afterwards, Brian and I went to the homecoming dance, and danced the night away, in the jazz room. It was so beautiful and amazing. And no, I'm not just talking about the delicious lemonade.

This is from Friday night. I wish it was a better picture of me, but whatevs. I stole it from the internet.

Saturday was weird. It was rainy and cold all day. We went to the first half of the football game, and left due to the freezing nature of everything. It's okay though, cause we lost 45-7...to Hawaii. Lame.

Today was super relaxing. If I had a fireplace it would have been perfect. Alas, I don't. HOWEVER. I do have awesome friends, neighbors, and one awesome boyfriend (still weird to say...). Life is so great right now.

Twitterpated

2010-10-15T00:39:00.000-06:00

The vocabulary word of the week. Thankfully it applies to life as well.