Still Unwritten

2012-02-04T19:58:00.002-07:00

The past, I think, has helped me appreciate the present - and I don't want to spoil any of it by fretting about the future.” ~ Audrey Hepburn~

One Hundred Things

2011-12-24T23:13:00.000-07:00

This is only part way completed... but here's to being grateful for the little things! More to come!

Write 10 physical abilities you are grateful for.

1. Dancing to Michael Buble in the living room

2. Singing Christmas carols with my friends in 3 degree weather

3. Playing Blessings by Laura Story on the piano

4. Walking through Porters in search of gift ideas

5. Smelling fresh gingerbread

6. Watching Polar Express with my brothers and sisters

7. Curling up in a blanket to get warm

8. Reading the Christmas story in the scriptures

9. Hearing jingle bells outside

10. Seeing Christmas lights sparkle on our tree

Write 10 material possessions you are grateful for.

1. My warm and fuzzy hippo fleece blanket

2. Shoes - my brown boots, my red suede wedges, and my sparkle ballet flats

3. Chapstick and lotion for my always dry lips and skin

4. Pinterest ideas- I've become a wanna be craftaholic

5. My adorable 2006 blue Hyundai Elantra, paid for and great gas mileage

6. All three of my alarm clocks, they make sure I'm up and going every day

7. Pointe shoes- there are a lot of wonderful memories associated with those

8. The beauty of flowers, the reds, pinks, blues, and greens.

9. Backpacks and purses packed with books, lip gloss, dance clothes, nursing supplies...

10. My piano and I-pod- I live for my music, absolutely all of it.

Write 10 living people you are grateful for.

1. My dear sweet mother Julie Anne

2. My kind adorable father David

3. My dancing friends with whom I share some of my fondest memories of college

4. My nursing friends/soulmates/sisters that I study with, sleep with, cry with, laugh with, collapse with... enough said=)

5. Grandma and Grandpa Thompson- together they are the ultimate example of selfless service

6. Grandma Hinck and Grant-they make every effort possible to be to everyone of our performances, concerts, shows, etc

7. My sisters Kirsten, Sarah, Catherine

8. My little brothers Spencer and Matthew

9. My dear high school friends Gretchen, Esther, and Chelsea

10. Amanda and Caitlin Boden, the roommates that helped me survive last semester

Write 10 deceased people you are grateful for.

1. Gordon B. Hinckley- my childhood prophet

2. Joseph Smith - the prophet of the restoration

3. Grandma and Grandpa Meek

Write 10 things about nature you are grateful for.

Write 10 things about today you are grateful for.

Write 10 places on earth you are grateful for.

Write 10 modern inventions you are grateful for.

1. Electricity

2. Modern Plumbing

3. KitchenAids

4. Contact Lenses

5. IPods and Recordings

6. Automobiles

7. Traffic Lights

8. Hot water

9. Photography

10. Laptops

Write 10 foods you are grateful for.

Write 10 things about the gospel you are grateful for.

Grandma's Quotes

2011-10-16T23:27:00.001-06:00

“No pain that we suffer, no trial that we experience is wasted. It ministers to our education, to the development of such qualities as patience, faith, fortitude and humility. All that we suffer and all that we endure, especially when we endure it patiently, builds up our characters, purifies our hearts, expands our souls, and makes us more tender and charitable, more worthy to be called the children of God. . . .and it is through sorrow and suffering, toil and tribulation, that we gain the education that we came here to acquire.
Apostle Orson F. Whitney (1855-1931)

Oh the places you'll go

2011-10-15T18:53:00.005-06:00

Yesterday someone asked me what my plans were for after graduation. I can't even describe how shocked I was when a whole stream of plans started coming out of my mouth. Plans that were very different then what I thought I'd been moving towards. All I can say is.... Wow, I can't wait for the next few months to pass! And oh my goodness, I graduate in April! (well, I walk in april, but I still have a couple online classes, but I still count it as graduating!) I've never been so calm about so much change and so many big choices. My life is taking a 360 degree turn from where it was headed and I'm oh so ready for it! I'm excited for the people I will get to interact with, for those who will touch and inspire me, and most of all for the people I can help. It's been a long time since I've felt so content with the craziness of my life and truthfully, nothing is holding me back from being the go getter I am. I feel more like myself then I have in weeks. And THAT is a great feeling. =) I think Dr. Seuss explains best how I'm feeling.

Congratulations!
Today is your day.
You’re off to Great Places!
You’re off and away!

You have brains in your head.
You have feet in your shoes.
You can steer yourself any direction you choose.
You’re on your own. And you know what you know.
And YOU are the guy who’ll decide where to go.

You’ll look up and down streets.
Look’em over with care.
About some you will say,
“I don’t choose to go there.”

With your head full of brains
and your shoes full of feet,
you’re too smart to go down
a not-so-good street.

And you may not findany you’ll want to go down.
In that case, of course, you’ll head straight out of town.
It’s opener there in the wide open air.
Out there things can happen and frequently do
to people as brainy and footsy as you.

And when things start to happen,
don’t worry. Don’t stew.
Just go right along.
You’ll start happening too.

Oh! The Places You’ll Go!

You’ll be on your way up!
You’ll be seeing great sights!
You’ll join the high fliers who soar to high heights.

You won’t lag behind, because you’ll have the speed.
You’ll pass the whole gang and you’ll soon take the lead.
Wherever you fly, you’ll be best of the best.
Wherever you go, you will top all the rest.

And will you succeed?
Yes! You will, indeed!
(98 and ¾ percent guaranteed!)

I'm Obsessed

2011-08-30T22:47:00.001-06:00

I never really had a favorite Disney princess growing up...

But here I am at 21 and I can't get enough of Princess Kate.

She's classy, accomplished, headstrong, mature, modest, and just plain beautiful.

And did I mention she and William are so very much in love?

Ten Things I Learned This Summer

2011-08-28T17:13:00.003-06:00

1. I am officially destined to be the shortest and the palest in the family.
All of my sisters are taller then me, and I'm certain my little brothers will pass me soon.

2. Spontaneous and unplanned girl nights need to happen more often.

3. My clothes will always be mutual property as long as I have sisters...
and I don't think that fact will be changing any time soon. Catherine's wearing
my clothes, and I'm wearing hers... typical summer tradition.

4. Rexburg Summer Sunday's are beautiful in every way. The weather,
the people, the smiles, the clothes, the feeling.

5. Being Sisters = L.O.V.E

6. Wearing sunglasses on top of my head hides a bad hair day.

7. They DO take the engines out of the display planes so that nobody tries to
fly them away. Plus they are cemented to the ground. Don't ever ask that
question now that you know it. You'll get some pretty funny looks, believe me. =)

8. The Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs does NOT house
the USA Women's gymnastics team even though they have pictures of them everywhere...
Unfortunately they all train in Texas. But I did find this sculpture in my search!

9. No matter how hard I try I won't be able to catch a lizard
at Garden of the God's, I'm just too slow. But believe me, I did try!

10. I will never again complain of being bored on Facebook.

The Denver Zoo grizzlies have already claimed that status update.

All in all, not a bad 7 week break and summer.

Character

2011-04-25T18:35:00.004-06:00

"Establish a set of principles to guide every aspect of life. . . .many people try to compartmentalize their lives and have a standard for Church, another standard for what they do in business and in other aspects of their life. . . .There is only one set of standards that makes sense. Those are the teachings of Jesus Christ which signal the importance of faith, service, obedience and integrity."

Richard G. Scott

An Apostle's Easter Thoughts on Christ

2011-04-22T22:23:00.000-06:00

What's Real? =)

2011-03-25T17:17:00.003-06:00

Definitely a new favorite. =) James Wesley's got the right idea.

Sisters, Shopping, and Summer = Sublime!

2011-03-19T23:51:00.006-06:00

Sandals for the summer!

Mom picked out this white
shirt. She has such
good tastes. =)

I fell in love with this skirt.
It even has pockets!
I got a blue version of it,
can't wait to wear it with a
fun white shirt and my
new sandals!

I may or may not have had a very fun shopping day. =) Nothing beats the fun/drama of shopping with your sisters. Each of us trying to convince each other of where the good deals are, what store we should go to first, pulling every black shirt off the racks at JCPenney to find one Mom can wear at her recital next week, fitting 4 of us into one tiny dressing room... you get the idea. =) Anyways, I think that we all came back victorious in some way or another. Sarah
finished some Junior Miss shopping, Catherine got a few pairs of shoes, Mom got an outfit for the recital, and I found some clothing for summer time on the BYU-Idaho campus. No capris, shorts, or flip flops included. =) I'm actually okay with that. I love classy sandals. And ask my friends, I wear skirts and dresses every day of the summer. Almost NO exceptions. I have absolutely loved having all of my family together this weekend.
And to make it even better I had no clinicals or classes on Friday, and I wasn't scheduled to work on Saturday. If that isn't a tender mercy I don't know what is. I honestly have spent every moment I can with my family and I've loved it. It's true that family life can be ridiculously crazy, especially with younger kids. But in some strange way, it just makes everything so "homey". (Is that a word?) I didn't accomplish any homework at all this weekend, but hopefully the free weekend will give me enough of a boost to keep going for the upcoming week this semester.

What

a

Great

Weekend!!!!!

Leprechaun Pranks

2011-03-17T23:22:00.001-06:00

Oh my goodness. Today was meant to be a day of laughs. I'm pretty certain that a dear little leprechaun was pranking me on purpose all day. First, I was in the Benson getting a drink from the drinking fountain that I always use and somehow the water decided to explode upward, directly into my face. I went back to class laughing, but I was still dripping. Afterwards while walking to the library after that class my leprechaun thought it would be entertaining to see me on the ground. Completely. Now I've NEVER tripped on campus. I've never even slipped on the ice while ON campus. But today I somehow caught the edge of the last step right outside the Taylor Building and everything went flying. The phone, the book in my hand, the backpack, and I lost one of my shoes too! Thank goodness for the kind people around to help pick me all up! My pride was certainly a little scattered for a bit!

I at least made a leprechaun giggle today! =)

Happy St. Patty's!!!

2011-03-17T08:56:00.000-06:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day! I just love this holiday, don't ask me why. It probably has something to do with my memories from elementary school. On St. Patrick's Day we'd get to school and the leprechaun would have turned everything inside out and upside down. Literally. One time there was a desk hanging from the ceiling! We'd of course begin cleaning up his mess and in that process we'd find treats and "gold" galore! Oh how I miss the days when my imagination was always going 1000 miles a minute. It was so easy to find joy in every little thing!

1) I love the color green.

2) Green pancakes.

They never look very pretty, but they sure are fun!

3) Leaving treats in secret places.

4) Trying to find something green to wear.

5) It's my half-birthday! I'm 21 1/2 today.

FUN FACTS ABOUT ST. PATRICK'S DAY!

http://www.newjerseynewsroom.com/style/six-surprising-facts-about-st-patricks-day

1. St. Patrick was not born in Ireland:

2. St. Patrick was never canonized by the Catholic Church:

3. Until recently, the pubs in Ireland were closed on St. Patrick’s Day:

4. People in Ireland don’t wear green on St. Patrick’s Day:

5. Corned beef and cabbage is not a traditional meal in Ireland:

6. The first St. Patrick’s Day Parade was in New York, not Dublin

I'm exaggerating a bit, I promise.

2011-03-16T22:13:00.002-06:00

Life is wonderful and STRESSFUL!!! =)

Today I started making my "end of the semester" to do list and I think I almost collapsed (I'm exaggerating, I promise) when I realized what a horrible procrastinator I have been. Very much not on purpose mind you! I thought I'd been busy as could be the last 3 months but apparently not busy enough.

Okay, my virtual outlet for anxiety and drama is over, done, and through. I'm sorry you had to endure through that. =)

Life really is wonderful. (and stressful at times.)

But from now until the end of the semester, you'll find me in the books!!! =)

Disclaimer: Step #2 to Happy Living states that we shouldn't indulge in self pity. Now that I've written about my "funny" moment of the day I hope it doesn't come off as "Woe is Me." I'm not stating something that isn't already common knowledge to all of us right? Life is Busy. =)

And now for the uplifting part of this post.

I was domestic tonight!! I have been meaning to make a certain casserole ALL semester but every time I start I realize I don't have any cooked chicken. I refuse to buy canned chicken. The whole idea just sits wrong with me. So tonight I finally made myself get some chicken on the stove. Which means that tomorrow I am going to be a cooking machine!! I'm so excited! I'll let you know if it turns out. =)

P.S. - Happy Hump Day! This crazy week is HALF-WAY through! =)

Mornin' Ya'll!

2011-03-14T09:39:00.002-06:00

I knew right off that today was going to be one of those interesting sort of days. Maybe it was because I tried to wash my hair with face-wash in the shower this morning. Or maybe it was when I suddenly started dancing a ballet variation from Don Quixote in my living room, only to smack my foot against the wall. Whatever it is, I've at least had a few giggle fits already, and it's only 9:30 in the morning. By the way, I just adore Monday mornings. In a strange sense they are my Saturdays. I'm able to accomplish the "essential things" right off, I get my laundry washed and folded, I tidy my room for the week, and yes, I take a shower that's a little longer then usual! Plus, it's the one day I cook a hot breakfast -the list could go on and on. I even went as far as painting my nails this morning, which I never do by the way. Dancing and nail polish aren't really compatible. (And then I started dancing in the living room and smudged it around, but no big deal.)

Anyways, maybe I should get to the point of this post. On Saturday I had the chance to attend the Bar J Wranglers with my coworkers and employers.

It was such a fun night! We all got dressed up in our cowboy and cowgirl attire (thank you roomies for letting me raid your closets), ate a gigantic meal at Craigos (pretty sure I need to go running a LOT this week), and laughed for a good solid hour and a half at the show. I got off work at 5 and had to be ready by quarter to 6 so I forgot my camera in the process. I was so disappointed! But I will definitely be getting a picture of the crew on here as soon as I can. But I will say this. I am so blessed to work with some of the most amazing people in the world! Not many people can say they look forward to going to work everyday but I most certainly can. I love ya'll!

Painting My Face Green

2011-03-13T21:49:00.000-06:00

I decided that my blog was in need of a little facelift. And since I have been obsessed with the color green lately, I searched high and low until I found one that was to my liking. Isn't it adorable?!? Also, we reached 11,000 views tonight! So exciting!

Ultimate Sophistication

2011-03-13T12:56:00.003-06:00

Step #1 to Happy Living.

Keep Busy

As a busy nursing student it certainly seems I have this step under my belt.

No problem, no argument - whatsoever!

But I've been thinking a lot about whether or not I should be proud of that fact. I've spent a fair amount of time this semester studying the recent General Conference Ensign issue of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. (Click here to learn more!) President Dieter F. Uchtdorf's talk was entitled "Of Things That Matter Most". He shared a wonderful message that has inspired me countless times to be more aware of how I am spending my time.

Here are a couple of great quotes from the talk.

Let’s be honest; it’s rather easy to be busy. We all can think up a list of tasks that will overwhelm our schedules. Some might even think that their self-worth depends on the length of their to-do list. They flood the open spaces in their time with lists of meetings and minutia—even during times of stress and fatigue. Because they unnecessarily complicate their lives, they often feel increased frustration, diminished joy, and too little sense of meaning in their lives.
...

Leonardo da Vinci is quoted as saying that “simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.”When we look at the foundational principles of the plan of happiness, the plan of salvation, we can recognize and appreciate in its plainness and simplicity the elegance and beauty of our Heavenly Father’s wisdom. Then, turning our ways to His ways is the beginning of our wisdom.
...
My dear brothers and sisters, we would do well to slow down a little, proceed at the optimum speed for our circumstances, focus on the significant, lift up our eyes, and truly see the things that matter most. Let us be mindful of the foundational precepts our Heavenly Father has given to His children that will establish the basis of a rich and fruitful mortal life with promises of eternal happiness. They will teach us to do “all these things … in wisdom and order; for it is not requisite that [we] should run faster than [we have] strength. [But] it is expedient that [we] should be diligent, [and] thereby … win the prize.”

Isn't Elder Uchtforf such a wise and inspiring man?

So the question is....How do I stay busy enough to be considered an individual of "Happy Living" (take a look at my last post), yet still maintain the standards of simplicity characterized by ultimate sophistication?

This truly seems near impossible at times, especially as a busy college student! I certainly haven't discovered the magic recipe yet, but I am working on figuring it out. And if anyone reading this has discovered the secret or simply has advice of any sorts, there IS a comment box. (I really do love comments! Really, I do.)

Meanwhile, I guess I'll continue in my quest for Ultimate Sophistication, in both a temporal and spiritual sense. As Julie Andrews sings, "Let's start at the very beginning, a very good place to start." Here's to keeping busy and "not running faster then I have strength for". All at the same time!!

By all means, feel free to join in that quest if you like!

The Advice of a Wise Grandmother

2011-03-11T14:27:00.002-07:00

I have a very wise Grandma. I just received the following advice via email from this incredible women. I'm not sure about whether or not she created these 10 rules herself, but I definitely consider MYSELF very lucky to be her granddaughter either way! I am working on becoming more like her every day, and she is a perfect example of following her own ten rules of happy living. I Love you Grandma Thompson!

TEN RULES FOR HAPPY LIVING:

1. Keep busy.

2. Never indulge in self pity.

3. When you go out, prepare to give everyone a smile who will take it.

4. Cultivate a cheerful disposition and sense of humor.

5. Put yourself out to help someone every day.

6. Fill your life with worthwhile things.

7. Appreciate people.

8. Make at least one child happy every day.

9. Refuse to be discouraged. What must be done can be done.

10. Read your Bible, Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants and Pearl of Great Price and pray to Heavenly Father about all of your affairs.

Thanks Grandma for the GREAT advice! I think I can say that for all of the grandchildren!!

Curiosity

2011-03-09T00:50:00.002-07:00

Lately I have been "antsy" about everything. Is that even a word? I really don't know but lets say it is for now. Its my made up word. =) I haven't been able to sit still, I feel like I have to be doing something different the minute I start doing something new. In fact, I just read that last sentence over again and it doesn't really make sense...but it DOES in a crazy way. Somehow I've got to figure out how to be less distracted by all the wheels that are continually turning in my head. I've noticed that the biggest distracter I deal with as of late is...(drum roll please)....

Curiosity....

They say that curiosity killed the cat, but currently I'm much more concerned about it killing my grades!

I blame this continual need to instantly discover new information on easy access via the Internet. You can find the answer to ~~almost~~ every random fact you could possibly imagine! (Oh gracious dear Google)... Whether the answer you find is reliable or not is beside the point- but you WILL find an answer of sorts!

Here's a list of my recent Google Searches... prepare to be somewhat entertained. =) Well, actually probably not. It's is rather funny however to see the random assortment of things I've been looking up lately.

Cachexia
Opportunity Grant Idaho
Do vegans eat honey?
Jewish culture and alcohol
percentage of meal for nursing
ethical dilemma form
Doris Day film
our search for happiness book
Lime Ricki
Acids and burn treatments
no alcoholic beverage, no drug know to science, no torture yet devised! (This is a line from a favorite old movie, but I couldn't remember the name of the film!)
Elder Worthlin October 2007
Channel eight Idaho falls
madison Idaho state

See what I mean though? The answer to every silly question is right at my fingertips, and I can't get away from the curiosity. I want to know the answers! =)

Oh well, President Clark DID say that we should learn everything we can while we are attending this University. Do you think he really meant everything?

Have a Happy Wednesday!

I love them...

2011-03-06T00:25:00.000-07:00

These pictures are a couple months overdue, but I was reminded tonight just how much I love my little brothers and sisters.

They are my ROCK!

Simple Joys...

2011-03-03T23:06:00.001-07:00

My nursing professor got a good laugh because of me this morning...

Right before class started I discovered this.

And this...

and this...

Google Chrome has customized THEMES for your web browser!! I am now the proud "owner" of a leopard print, (complete with a transparent leopard backdrop) web browsing machine!

And YES, this made me very happy and excited indeed.

I think my nursing professor thought I'd gone crazy. =) He told me that he didn't understand how girls could get so excited over something that made no difference except for the change the color of our computer screens.

His reaction to my own reaction kept making me smile all day long. If being a girl means finding simple joy in the little silly things of life then so be it. I don't mind at all. =) Have a very happy Friday!!!

And the Winner is...

2011-03-01T08:16:00.001-07:00

I've never been one to spend my time fawning over movie stars or red carpets, but I couldn't resist cheering for one of my all time favorite movies when I heard it was nominated for Best Animated Feature this year. Now don't judge me, I didn't sit and watch the Oscars on Sunday. But thank goodness for You Tube! And the news. And the newspaper.

And the winner is....!

TOY STORY 3

Really, who couldn't fall in love with Woody. =) And Rex.

And how can you not just adore the music?

I'll be the first to admit, I cried in the theatre the first time I watched it. I couldn't help it!

My compliments to Pixar and Disney for making a wonderful, heartwarming and inspiring movie!!

(Although I will admit, "How To Train A Dragon" was definitely a close second. It's certainly my other pick of the year.)

The Weekend

2011-02-27T11:24:00.001-07:00

This weekend was crazy... Crazy busy that is! It all started with a Friday night in the testing center. Those have become pretty common lately. Usually I study with my nursing buddies and we head to the testing center around 7 or 8. And then we wish for the best! This weekend I got home around 9:00 - and that was early! Thank goodness I love what I'm doing right now because it makes late night weekends much easier! After I got home on Friday my FHE brothers showed up about 30 minutes later, asking my apartment if we wanted to go bowling. We headed to Teton Bowling and had an amazing time! Here's some pictures of our adventures!

Briana, Christian, and Ryan (who is hiding his face in shame because of his last gutter ball)
We tried to console him. =P

You see that big "X" on line 9 in the C scoring row? That's me! The best part is that my only strike was the result of a backwards granny effort. Maybe I should have changed my bowling strategy earlier in the night.

Dillon, Evan, and Nicole. What a pose!

Losers had to buy the winners ice cream... Yep, we were the losers.
We bought mint chocolate chip and Moose Tracks! My favorites!

Saturday was such a busy day. I didn't have work at the Circle, but I did have a lot of meetings to attend. Sister Julie B. Beck, the general Relief Society President, was visiting the area and we had a conference from 10-12, and a training meeting from 1:30-3:30. I missed part of the training meeting so that I could help my mom accompany for a young man's senior recital. The music was AMAZING!!!! It made me miss the days that I spent hours on the piano practicing for recitals, competitions, and festivals. Those days at least prepared me to be a world class page turner!

After the recital I headed home, started writing a paper that is due on Tuesday, and finished some last minute Sunday prep shopping. Around 8:30 I brought cookies to a good friend with my mom, went shopping with her, and then headed home. What a great fun filled, yet busy day! But it wasn't over. In fact the best part was saved for the end of the day! PLAYTIME!!!!

Kara and I played volleyball, went running, and were the official "Find Nicole" team. That's a story for another time. =)
Also, I don't know what I'm doing in the picture, but it was the only picture of us with the volleyball.

Bradley and Nicole

The roommate "After Party" We're all matching!
Alta, Nicole, Camille, Briana, Kara

All in all, not a bad weekend!

Camille vs. Jackson Pratt

2011-02-26T19:52:00.002-07:00

As many of you know, I am currently in the Nursing Program at BYU-Idaho. So far I love it, and I certainly hope that lasts since I do have three more semesters. A couple days ago I was studying with a group of nursing students and one girl mentioned that we were an eighth of the way through the program!

GULP?!

Time goes much too fast to be real! Here I am an eighth of the way through my new up and coming career education and I haven't even mentioned nursing on my blog. Well, that is about to change! (Luckily the "real" exciting stuff didn't happen until this week anyways, so I'm not too far behind.)

On Wednesday, I gave my first SHOT! Mind you it was on one of the nursing students, but it was still a real shot! I will admit, I have been a little bit anxious about having to poke someone with a sharp needle and I was completely surprised at how simple the whole process was. Prepare, Point, and Poke! That's really all there is to it! I decided that poking a person was MUCH easier then trying to poke a safety pin through a latex balloon to deflate it. Much Much Easier!

Also, let me tell you about my experience at clinical on Friday. Each week we are assigned to a nurse and a specific patient. This week my nurse was Rodney, and he is way to "nice" for his own good. Now in nursing terms lets just say nice means "will let you do just about anything so that you can learn how to do it, even if you've never practiced before". Halfway through clinical Rodney informed me that I was going to be pulling out a Jackson Pratt drain. My first thought was, "What on earth does pulling out even mean? I was hoping for the best, believe me! But about a half hour later I found myself pulling about 18 inches of 1/2 - 3/4 inch tubing out of a small incision in a women's stomach in one quick swift movement. It was CRAZY!!! Don't worry, my patient was numbed up and on pain medications. And she told me she didn't feel pain, just something creepy around her insides. Gotta love those pain meds!

Happy Birthdays!!!

2011-02-23T19:21:00.000-07:00

I have the most amazing daddy and the most incredible little sister! Happy Birthday to both of you!!!

Sisters

2011-02-20T22:53:00.004-07:00

She is your mirror, shining back at you with a world of possibilities. She is your witness, who sees you at your worst and best, and loves you anyway. She is your partner in crime, your midnight companion, someone who knows when you are smiling, even in the dark. She is your teacher, your defense attorney, even your personal press agent. She is your sister.

I love you Kirsten! I don't know what I'd do without you! You have been such a strength to me and I am so grateful! All my love and I can't wait to see you soon!

Dream

2011-02-20T00:29:00.001-07:00

I fell in love with these lyrics today! I just had to share!

Dream

I was a little girl alone in my little world who dreamed of a little home for me.

I played pretend between the trees, and fed my house guests bark and leaves, and laughed in my pretty bed of green.

I had a dream

That I could fly from the highest swing.
I had a dream.

Long walks in the dark through woods grown behind the park, I asked God who I'm supposed to be.

The stars smiled down on me, God answered in silent reverie. I said a prayer and fell asleep.

I had a dream

That I could fly from the highest tree.
I had a dream.

Now I'm old and feeling grey. I don't know what's left to say about this life I'm willing to leave.

I lived it full and I lived it well, there's many tales I've lived to tell. I'm ready now, I'm ready now, I'm ready now to fly from the highest wing.

I had a dream.

Families Can Be Together Forever

2011-02-17T22:33:00.000-07:00

2011-02-15T00:01:00.000-07:00

I got Heart Attacked!!!!

Minus the Prince Charming's sign and the roses. That was part of my apartment's Valentine's Day Decorations. =)

Thank you to whoever you are!

I've been feeling rather crafty the last few weeks. Last week I created this little display to hide the electric box in my room. I made 24 muffins on Sunday, made the cutest handout ever for Relief Society, and made 60 Valentines - which I forgot to take a picture of! I was so disappointed when I realized. They were so cute!!

Valentine Treasures

2011-02-14T09:14:00.012-07:00

First off, to whoever heart attacked my door last night, I LOVE YOU TOO!! You completely made my night!

Valentine treasures are people who
have often crossed your mind,
family, friends and others, too,
who in your life have shined
the warmth of love or a spark of light
that makes you remember them;
no matter how long since you’ve actually met,
each one is a luminous gem,
who gleams and glows in your memory,
bringing special pleasures,
and that’s why this Valentine comes to you:
You’re one of those sparkling treasures.

By Joanna Fuchs

To me, Valentine's Day is not just for those with significant others, or long lasting relationships, although I completely agree that it is a special holiday for those in those situations.

Valentine's Day is a time we celebrate the emotion of love. The love of a spouse, a love of a dating couple, the love of siblings, the love of friends, the love of everyone!

But the greatest example of Love ever found or displayed is that of God's love for His children. It is found in the infinite power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ. The Atonement was the ultimate act of love because it allows us to become stronger as we obey His gospel and more prepared to build the Lord's Kingdom as disciples of Christ. I'm so grateful to my Savior, for his sacrifice for me personally, and for his overwhelming and secure love that I feel each and every day.

Love is a characteristic I am working to develop. What a great day to motivate us to become a little more open, a little more giving, and a little more selfless!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!

P.S. - It's Valentine's Day! Don't let this day pass by with out telling SOMEONE you care about them. Don't forget!!!

Friends are Kisses...

2011-02-13T19:05:00.005-07:00

The last couple days have been quite difficult. There's been a few times where I've been ready to just stay in bed for the day and sleep everything out. And that's not like me, I'm a pretty proactive, go getter girl. I believe that we are all deserving of some down time once in a while, but I also believe that we have to keep swimming in order to get somewhere. Treading water is harder anyways, right?

Helen Keller once said,
"Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffereing can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved."

I fully intend to do just that! Strengthen my soul, inspire my ambition, and achieve success!! I've discovered for myself that the Lord gives us tools and tender mercies to help us along the way. One of these for me has been my good friends. My amazing, loving, and caring friends. How lucky I am! I have never had such a loving group of roommates in my life, I have never had FHE brothers that continuously go out of their way to include us in their fun, and I am so blessed to grow close to 49 amazing girls in my ward this semester.

Here's to the wonderful FHE brothers who took Kara

and I out to Applebees Friday night! We were so grateful
to be rescued from our lonely cookie dough party! =)

I truly do believe that...

Friends are KISSES blown to us by angels.

The Washer and the Kitchen

2011-02-10T22:46:00.003-07:00

Take a good look at this picture...

What's Alta holding?

I wouldn't recognize what this was either. Here's what happened. On Wednesday last week I took a yogurt to school because I hadn't had time to eat breakfast. Somehow during the trip from home to school my yogurt decided to explode... everywhere. It was actually really funny. I cleaned up the mess to the best of my ability and when I got home I unloaded my entire backpack and threw it in the washer. But somehow I forgot to empty the very front pocket. I keep notecards in that pocket and on that particular day I had been carrying about 200 2x2 COLORED notecards. They ended up EVERYWHERE! Picture a colorful mash of mess lining the inside of the dryer. That's what Alta is holding in the picture. PRETTY CRAZY FUN!!!

On Thursday night I tried a new recipe: Lemon Cranberry Muffins! They turned out wonderfully and I was able to treat my roommates and two girls in my Relief Society.

Recipe for Lemon Cranberry Muffins

I couldn't find fresh or frozen cranberries anywhere so I got a little creative... Instead I used a few cans of whole cranberry sauce and rinsed them in hot water to get the berries. It worked, but I'm pretty sure I would use frozen cranberries next time if I have them.

Quite Lucky

2011-02-08T09:07:00.002-07:00

Thank you Bailey for sharing this quote in Nursing Theory this morning! SO cute and SO GOOD!

Kirsten, I thought you'd enjoy it. It's Dr. Seuss!!!!!!!!

When you think things are bad,
when you feel sour and blue,
when you start to get mad…
you should do what I do!

Just tell yourself, Duckie,
you’re really quite lucky!
Some people are much more…
oh, ever so much more…
oh, muchly much-much more
unlucky than you!

Smiles and Snapshots

2011-02-07T08:00:00.003-07:00

I just love Monday mornings. They are the mornings that I can wake up a little bit late, do my laundry, and prepare for a crazy up and coming week. It also means I have a little more time to update my blog! So here is a compilation of the many things that have happened this last week, in shapshot form. Enjoy!

Whoever it was that felt so inclined to create a smily face on the BYU-I stadium seats, THANK YOU! I can't tell you how many times it has helped cheer me up the past few days. Honestly, how can you not smile when you think about the randomnisity of it? I consider that smily face a tender mercy, even in all its simplicity.

Now, on to the chocolate feast!

Remember how I said that we had "second grade treats" on Wednesday? On February 2nd we had Little Debbie's Valentine treats. I know that we said we would "make" chocolate dishes, but as college students we just do the best that we can, right?

Thursday night we broke out the chocolate ice cream... we went through two boxes by Saturday!!

This is a HORRIBLE picture that only shows the mess our apartment was in, but the mess was for good reason. We invited our FHE brothers over on Friday for hot chocolate and no bake cookies... PLUS we had a Dance Dance Revolution Party. I did NOT win by the way. =) In fact, I think I came in last every time. Go me!

This picture perfectly describes our Saturday night. We were all exhausted from a busy crazy week, so we invested in some good quality bonding time. The funny thing about this picture is that it truly wasn't planned. Somehow we just ended up there. Don't ask how, I'm not sure! I have been blessed with amazing roommates this semester and I'm so grateful for each of them. There is not a day, wait, not a MINUTE, that goes by without a laugh, a hug, or a helping hand. I consider them another one of those tender mercies the Lord has blessed me with. Plus, if you look in the corner of the picture you can see our chocolate for the day. OREOS!

Have a great Monday!

Need A Laugh? Check out my facebook!

2011-02-05T23:24:00.000-07:00

Check out my recently opened facebook page for a glance at the FUNNIEST video ever!!! I seriously don't think something has made me laugh this hard in ages... By the way, my apartment got a VERY DEEP CLEAN after this. =) Also, I don't think I'll be on facebook for very long, just long enough to laugh for a little bit about this. =) It was great. =)

Second Grade Treats Relived...

2011-02-02T23:59:00.008-07:00

Any ideas on what our chocolate treat was tonight? I'll let you know in the morning. =)

Also, a funny thing today... I'm a nursing student and I don't know how to take care of myself when I get sick because I hate taking medicine so much. Around 9:00 this morning I got a horrible headache. I think I MIGHT have discovered what migranes partially feel like... it was not pleasant. I truthfully think I sat in the same corner at the library and stared at the same textbook for 3 hours. At about 5:00 my mom called to see how my day had been and she said, "Well why don't you run home and take something?" Um... the thought hadn't even crossed my mind!!! Silly silly me. I sure hope I'm better at administering medication to my patients then I am for myself. I went home and my roommates took care of me. Maybe THEY should be taking my nursing classes, instead of me!

Also, I'm so grateful for my nursing girlfriends. They already know me well enough to recognize when something is just a little "off", including a headache. Friendships are what keep us going through the hard times right?

"Any sane person loves chocolate." - Bob Greene

2011-02-01T23:59:00.002-07:00

I will be back to edit and finish this post as soon as I can because...

It's National Chocolate Lover's Month!!!

I convinced my roommates that we are going to cook/eat one dish with some sort of chocolate in it each day of February. It's late but I'll edit this post later tomorrow when its not 12:30 in the morning. (We had a little roommate drama, that's why I'm up so late... Memo to boys, don't ever EVER call a girl names. It's just plain not nice.)

The first recipe was...

German Chocolate Cake Cookies! (We were a little desperate to find something chocolatey on such short notice.) Pictures are COMING!

Also, Thank You to Danielle for taking me to Zumba tonight, away from all the homework, school, and stress. I haven't exercised in so long and it felt AmAzInG!!!! I was much in need of those happy high exercise endorphins.

Be back Soon!

Write A Note... =)

2011-01-31T18:57:00.002-07:00

Okay, two times in one day. I'm crazy. I know. But can I just say that I am SO grateful for the little tender mercies that the Lord gives. Today I came across two notes for me, one placed in a special hiding place by a roommate about a week ago, and another in my locker at school from a friend in the Nursing Department. Yesterday I received the most thoughtful email ever from a dear friend reminding me of how important the little things in life are. And this evening I got a text from my sister with the simple statement of "I love you". Nothing more. All of these brought little smiles to my face amidst the long checklist of "To Do's" that had accumulated over the weekend. So thank you to all of those who take time to leave those they care about a simple note of their appreciation and love. You really might make all the difference to that person. I'm inspired and reminded of how I can bless the lives of those I care about as well.

“To the world you may be just one person, but to one person you may be the world.”

Cooking Crazy...

2011-01-31T11:16:00.004-07:00

Yesterday I went a little cooking crazy... I think it was my way of battling with sleep deprivation. I haven't slept to well the past few nights...

First off my roommates helped me make a breakfast casserole that I had bought all the ingredients for. I got the recipe from my cousin MaryAnn's blog. If you are looking for a fun place to find recipes, visit her blog at http://www.maresfoodandfun.blogspot.com/

I FAILED to take a picture of my creation, but MaryAnn has one of her own... I give her complete and total credit for this picture, but I was pretty proud of myself. Mine looked just as wonderfully delicious!

If you want to try it out, just click below. My roommates LOVED it! The only I change I made was instead of using 2 green peppers I used 1 green pepper and 1 red pepper. I loved the color it brought out! PS - cook it for a little longer than it calls for. We had it in the oven for a good 45-50 minutes.

Sausage Bake- Take a look at the picture!

Later I made good old fashioned Betty Crocker Peanut Butter Cookies for my visiting teaching sisters... sadly, they got done a little too late so I wrapped them up for delivery today. I hope they still taste good! My little sister ordered me my own copy of the Original Betty Crocker Cookbook gone Lite. She has her own copy, and I can't wait to start using mine when it comes! Also, I'm sure Kirsten will be grateful that I'm not always calling her to steal a recipe from her amazing book! (I kind of talked her ear off yesterday... Thank goodness she's a doll and willing to deal with me.) And thank goodness for cooking. Life's been a little "crazy" as of late and it's good to have some sort of outlet that's beneficial to both myself, my roomies, my sisters, and my friends.

Have a great Monday!

Changing me...

2011-01-30T09:18:00.002-07:00

There are so many things that I want to become better at.

Better at being optimisitic,
better at getting up when my alarm rings the first time,

better at singing to the best of my capacity EVERY time a song is sung.

I want to be better at tracking my money - knowing what I've spent, and EXACTLY what it's being spent on.

I want to be better at learning people's names the first time I hear it so that I don't have to continually ask over and over.

I want to be better at playing games like signs, or charades - the ones that make you jump out of your comfort zone.

I want to be better at finding time to go work out with my friends, whether it be Zumba, or running, or dancing.

I want to be better at immediately making my bed when I get up, not when I notice its still messy as I'm running out the door.

I want to be better at studying my scriptures, not just reading them quickly before I shower in the morning.

I want to be better at prioritizing what's important and what can wait.

I want to be better at calling my little brothers and sisters when I think about them.

I want to be better at not ignoring a thoughtful or generous feeling ever.

I want to be better at NOT being critical of things that really don't matter in the end or in the eternal perspective of things.

I want to be better at getting enough sleep .

I want to be better at taking nursing tests and being patient enough to read through the questions multiple times.

I want to be better at making my lunches the night before I need them so that I'm not so rushed in the mornings.

I want to be less wanty ( goodness this list defeats that goal...).

I want to be more service oriented towards those who might be in need of a helping hand or a lift.
I want to fulfill my calling the absolute best that I am able.

That's a long list of goals.... I guess its best to just start at the beginning.... here's to being more optimistic this week.

Thank you Aunt Sona for these wise words this morning... they were perfectly appropriate for the day!

"All any of us can do is to lift where we stand and do the best we can to love each other and lift each other up."

CHINESE PROVERB

2011-01-27T15:01:00.001-07:00

I love it when you get points on a test for simply writing down a quote in your journal. What a great little reminder that greatness is always a work in progress. Have a great Thursday!

THEY

WHO

KNOW

THE

TRUTH

ARE

NOT

GREAT

THOSE

WHO

LOVE

AND

THEY

WHO

LOVE

ARE

NOT

GREAT

THOSE

WHO

LIVE

IT.

Thank you Brother Christensen!

2011-01-24T23:34:00.002-07:00

My heart has been aching all day for the dear people of Russia. Earlier today a suicide bomber slipped into a crowd waiting for arriving international passengers at Moscow's Domodedovo airport, setting off a huge blast that killed 35 people. What a horrible and frightful experience for those who were waiting for their loved ones in this usually calm and uneventful waiting area. I believe the reason this single attack has left me shell shocked all day is because I can say that I have stood where these traumatic events have taken place. Two years ago I was a member of a dance tour traveling from St. Petersburg to Moscow and than on to Kazan. Our layover in Moscow was short. In fact, I have been struggling all day to recall just what occurred. My journal simply states, "On Friday, April 17, we flew from St. Petersburg to Moscow, and then flew straight east to Kazan."

If I remember correctly we simply unloaded our plane and walked across a stretch of runway to climb onto another plane. But there was so much traveling over that tour period that I could very easily be overlooking something. I'm not sure at all in fact.

All I know is that my prayers have been with them all day.

XOXOXO Russia.

W/O Facebook

2011-01-17T09:45:00.001-07:00

I feel a bit liberated right now. =) I just deactivated the Facebook account for the week. A week of sheer freedom from the social networking addiction that tends to take up way too much of my time. But obviously I'm not cured because I'm certain I will get back on in the next little bit. In fact I know I probably will... There are way to many connections on there to just ignore it forever... how ridiculous is that.

What a weekend it was!!! I love the weekends, but lately they seem just as full and packed as the weekdays. There are multiple meetings, firesides, visits, dinners, and planning that has to take place, and it has to occur over the weekend, simply because there is no other time to do it. But maybe there will be now.- hence the no facebook! I guess we will certainly see. =)

I really am so excited about the nursing program, but I am learning first hand that it is going to be busy as can be. There are so many commitments that have to be made in addition to finding time to study. And by studying I mean studying extremely well. It's a bit overwhelming, I admit. But I have a feeling I can do it. I've made it through college this far, I can make it another year or so. No problem.

Anyways, this is just a tidbit of my life for the last little bit. With no Facebook, maybe I'll find the time to write on here just a little more often, and maybe include some pictures of sorts too! I have really tried to find extra time to spend with my roommates this semester... I just need to document it so that the memories don't get lost!

Have a Happy Monday!

My ABC Game

2011-01-13T21:13:00.001-07:00

I started my silly game as I got into the shower this morning. For some reason, I just felt like I needed an extra boost for the day - so here's how I did it.

I named 26 THINGS that I am grateful for... following the alphabet. =) I got a bit creative I think. This list is certainly not an identical list to the one I made this morning.... but it was still fun. I certainly have SO much to be grateful for these days!

A- Apples
B- Beds and bookshelves and boots
C- chocolate chips
D - dressers
E - envelopes
F - friends
G - grass
H- home
I - ice cream
J - jogging shoes
K - kittens and key chains
L - laughs
M - mirrors and mountains
N - nail polish
O - oatmeal
P - packages
Q - quotes
R - remover (make - up)
S - sandals
T - towels, snow Tires
U - umbrellas
V - Vacuums
W - Watermelon
X - well - x-rays?
Y - YELLOW
Z - zippers

One other great thing... I think I've discovered the secret to genuine prayers - writing them down before you say them! I've been trying to write down a list of "I'm grateful for's" and "I ask thee for's"for the past little while and it has made such a difference in the content of my prayers. I love this quote by President Bednar. It narrates my own simple testimony of prayer and gratitude.

"We are commanded to 'pray always' (2 Nephi 32:9; D&C 10:5; 90:24)—'vocally as well as in [our] heart[s]; . . . before the world as well as in secret, in public as well as in private' (D&C 19:28). I testify that prayer becomes more meaningful as we counsel with the Lord in all of our doings, as we express heartfelt gratitude, and as we pray for others with real intent and a sincere heart.

"I witness Heavenly Father lives and that He hears and answers every earnest prayer."

Have a happy Thursday. =)

F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

2011-01-03T00:07:00.001-07:00

Day 11-Another picture of you and your friends

I have been blessed with some wonderful friends. This picture is a recent snapshot of my dear besties from high school at waiting outside the temple at Gretchen's wedding. The only thing missing is Gretchen herself, but she was of course in a much more exciting place than in front of the camera. =)

What an amazing group of girls they are! Each is unique but has so much to offer and provide to others. Everyone of them is successful, respected, and each of them inspire me in one way or another. I can honestly say that my best friends are the girls who brings out the best in me. So thank you to all six of you. I love you all to pieces!!

Shauna, Julie, Esther, Chelsea, Lauren, Camille

Gretchen and Brad

Doesn't she look gorgeous!?

My New Year's Resolutions

2011-01-01T10:17:00.001-07:00

My mom just read this article to our family...What a great message!!!

Check out the whole article below...
Five New Year’s resolutions you can actually keep | Mormon Times

In 2011, why don't we set five resolutions we can actually keep?

1. Ignore the mirror: Let's be honest, most of us aren't super models. But the truth is you're much better looking than you think are. In fact, you're actually quite beautiful. You're not as plump as you imagine, and your nose and teeth are just fine. You're divine, and those who love you agree.

2. Walk more: Don't commit to walking 40 miles a week or even an hour a day. Just commit to walking more than you did last year. Park at the back of the lot every time you're at IKEA, Wal-Mart or your local mall. Before you know it, you will have walked a marathon.

3. Eat better: Can you still eat fast food? Sure you can. Just make a conscious effort to skip it now and then. Next time you have a hankering for a hamburger, grab a salad instead. Next time you're jonesing for a soda, grab an ice-cold bottle of water from the convenience store.

4. Pray more: I had a friend tell me his key to success was kneeling in quiet prayer no fewer than six times a day. Six times? I'm delighted when I get two on my knees, one at my desk, one in my car and one on a golf course. If you feel distance between you and your Father in Heaven, step closer through prayer, but don't keep a pie chart. Just pray more than you did last year; the results will astound you.

5. Be more charitable: Are you slow to say thank you? To open doors? To forgive? Make charity a verb by seeking out small moments every single day to lift someone. Will you still get grumpy? Still have bad days? Still find yourself occasionally annoyed at people around you? Sure, but not as much as you did last year, guaranteed.

Goal Making 101

2010-12-31T01:23:00.000-07:00

“When we are motivated by goals that have deep meaning, by dreams that need completion, by pure love that needs expressing, then we truly live life”

I've been thinking a LOT about the things that I want to do in 2011. My dreams are big. And probably a little unrealistic. But better to have a plan you can change then no plan at all! At least I think that's what I've been told before. It's pretty good advice so I think that I'll follow it. I've always wanted to run a half-marathon of some sort, so here is my public announcement of my new up and coming workout goals. I'm going to Run the Teton Dam Half-Marathon in June!

Below is a map of the run... Wish me Luck!!!

<p>&amp;amp;amp;lt;p&amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://www.mapmyrun.com/run/united-states/id/rexburg/592993348"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Teton Dam 1/2 Marathon &amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;br/&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;a href="http://www.mapmyrun.com/find-run/united-states/id/rexburg"&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;Find more Runs in Rexburg, Idaho&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;lt;/a&amp;amp;amp;amp;amp;gt;&amp;amp;amp;lt;/p&amp;amp;amp;gt;</p>

Music is what feelings sound like. ~Author Unknown

2010-12-23T23:12:00.002-07:00

Day 10-Songs you listen to when you're bored, happy, sad, mad, hyped

Oh how I love my music!!! Before high school the only music that existed to me was broadway, hymns, and classical. If it didn't fit in one of those two categories it wasn't listed as "important". But (thankfully) my opinions evolved gradually and I am so grateful! I miss the days when I made time to sit at the piano and practice for many hours of the day. And I miss spending three hours a day in the orchestra/choir rooms at school. And I miss singing Broadway Songs around the piano on Sunday afternoons with my sisters as my mom played the piano.

Bored - I don't often listen to music just because I'm bored. In fact, I cant' remember the last time I was bored! Life is much too busy. I will admit that I break out all the cheese when I'm cleaning or tidying. During cleaning checks this year I was playing High School Musical and Wicked. I love my Broadway soundtracks!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Happy - I'm usually happiest when I am moving or dancing... Some of my all time favorites might include ColdPlay, Michael Buble, Josh Groban, or even David Archuleta. I'm not very original am I... And I love a good Whitney Housten, some Barbara Streisand, or even a little classical.

Josh Groban Link - Goes to Video that I couldn't get to work!!!

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Sad - Any album of Jenny Oaks Baker's. It's simply soothing and hopeful. Once I've passed the "woe is me" phase of sadness, I usually move up to something I've danced to. Dancing and movement make me happy!

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Mad - Um... Country music by far. Dixie Chicks, Rascal Flatts. If anything, this type of music calms me down and gets my mind on something else. If I'm really mad I'll go exercise. That's when I turn on Rocky or the All American Rejects on.

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Hyped - What does hyped mean? Is this when I'm in the car with my girlfriends and we are singing along to whatever's on the radio? When I think about high school our all time favorites were Red High Heels, any song from Hercules, just anything loud, crazy and fun. =) And when I'm on my own I still love the King, dear Michael Jackson.

It's A Great Day To Be Alive!

2010-12-09T10:15:00.005-07:00

I woke up this morning feeling pretty great. Maybe it was the three separate texts I received over the night from friends and family, maybe it was the fact that I slept in an hour and half more than usual, maybe it was because I'd slept in my dance clothes (which are awfully comfortable I might add), or maybe it was the funny memory of how the fire alarm went off in the middle of a dress rehearsal performance last night because of all the fog smoke used for the lighting. It could be that I'm going to have a car all weekend, or that I get to dance at a stake conference gig with Dance Alliance aka my best friends on Saturday. And I have a dermatology appointment this afternoon to take care of the awfully deep zits I keep getting. I don't know, but it seems like I have a great couple days ahead of me...and then a weekend! And then a wonderful AND exciting upcoming break!!!! It sure doesn't get much better than that! It certainly is a great day to be alive!

Something I'm Proud Of

2010-12-08T21:31:00.001-07:00

Day Nine - Something Your Proud Of

This one is a little bit difficult for me, and it made me realize a profound thing. I couldn't come up with something that I was extremely proud of lately - meaning.... I NEED to do more things that make me feel happy and accomplished again! It would be a healthy thing in fact!

When I first started college I planned to major in dietetics at BYU. My plan was to transfer to Provo after two years in Rexburg, spend one year in Provo, apply for the program and graduate after two years. Well obviously that didn't happen... I'm still in Rexburg. And I am so grateful! So many wonderful things have happened since I made the decision to stay in Rexburg. First off, I was able to be a member of an amazing dance company for two years. My dearest and closest friends are from those years, and I MISS THEM like crazy each and every day! But in the process of deciding to stay, being on the dance team, and living and learning a lot along the way, I decided to apply for the Nursing Program. And Guess What!? I was admitted!

I start my nursing adventure this January. It's sure going to be a crazy four semesters, but I will have a stable job, another group of wonderful friends, and hopefully more amazing experiences that mold me into a better person. That's the whole purpose of life anyways, right? And I love my life. It's sure a crazy ride, but I'm so excited for it!

Oh and one other thing... I'm proud of the fact that I've made it through 6 semesters of college. And I'm Still Alive and Breathing. Sometimes a little bruised, both physically and emotionally, but still alive and growing so much each day!

My Short Term Goals

2010-12-07T10:55:00.000-07:00

Life has been oh so so busy... and the way I know is silly. Usually I NEVER forget to eat. Eating, cooking, being creative is one of my favorite past times, but for some reason I have absolutely failed in that regard this semester. In the last week I've forgotten, I repeat, forgotten to eat. Not on purpose, not because I was putting it off till later, but because I JUST FORGOT. So that's my proof that I've been to busy... and maybe a little stressed. Which causes a little bit of emotional strain. Which means I let it all out with a blog post!

Day 8 - What are your short term goals.

1. Stress less and Smile more during finals week. There is lots to do this week! But there is even more to look forward to. I cannot wait for the holidays! My family has so many traditions that I can't wait to celebrate. Rice porridge for Christmas, Hot Punch for New Years, and sleeping under the Christmas tree the night before Christmas Eve. I really can't wait!

2. Survive my Pathology Final. I say the word survive because I will be thrilled with any grade that isn't failing! This class has been so difficult for me because of how much material there is to cover. We literally went through a 1258 page textbook in one semester... It's Crazy! The material is fascinating, but I'm surprised I haven't self diagnosed myself with something yet. Walking out of the testing center after I take that final will be BLISS!!!

3. Text Less and Call More. I've been working on a project about Media Addictions in one of my classes and I'm convinced I can do better! I've been trying really hard to call people more, to not text as much, and to spend time often spent on Facebook doing other things. I've been reading the news, going through the new Ensign, and finding recipes to try over the break! And I've been getting more homework done. That is always a good sign!!

P.S. I'm making these over the break... I got this Recipe from a link on MaryAnn's Blog, The Sister's Cafe. I'm Kind of excited. =)

http://sisterscafe.blogspot.com/2010/03/carmelitos.html

Happy Holidays!

Grandma's Quote of the Day

2010-12-01T20:39:00.001-07:00

"He who has conquered doubt and fear has conquered failure."

James Allen, American Novelist

The Turkey Died =(

2010-11-29T07:12:00.000-07:00

Camille is very sad... the forever long post I wrote about Thanksgiving aka Turkey Day somehow got lost in cyperspace as I pushed post... Well, I guess the second time around will be twice as good, right?

Just note that it is on its way! Silly computer....

My Mother Inspires Me

2010-11-22T09:41:00.001-07:00

Day 7 - Who Inspires Me

My parents. No questions asked. I know that I'm biased, but I'm not lying when I say state that I am undeservingly blessed with the world's best mom and dad. Recently I created a post on my wonderful daddy. Here is the link to that entry.

My Daddy Inspires Me

Obviously this entry is two fold and would not be complete without acknowledging my wonderful mother, whom I admire and love dearly. Of course this list is not all inclusive. THAT feat in itself would take up pages.

Mom is insightful. Her advice has never once led me astray. If she feels strongly enough to share her opinion about an issue I've learned to listen and fully respect what she has to offer. Call it a mother's instinct and intuition? Possibly. I think it is a gift. And it applies to important decisions in life, what to make for dinner, what outfit to wear for pictures... etc. She just knows. =)

Mom is an amazing listener. It's funny, I am still living in Rexburg, less than two miles from my home. But I get homesick if I haven't talked to my mom at least once a day. And it's not as if I have anything great and exciting to tell her, we just love to talk. I remember many nights in high school where I would sit down on her bed and we would talk for an hour or so. (MInd you this was after midnight usually...) We love hearing about each others days, what went right and what went wrong. I'm so grateful that my mom is the person that I feel comfortable enough to talk about ANYTHING with.

Mom + Music = Love at Home --- There is always music on in my home! One of my favorite and most vivid memories of growing up was falling to sleep to my mom playing the piano. She would spend all day being an amazing mom and then sit down to practice after we had all gone to bed. And mind you, this wasn't quiet, soft music. It was usually grand concertos or loud character pieces for the violin students that she accompanied at the university. But I loved it...

Also, Sunday after dinner Mom would pull out the stack of broadway music and play as we finished the dishes. We'd sing from the kitchen but as soon as the dishes were clean we'd all move in around the piano.

P.S. - Like I said there is always music in our home. Right now Kurt Bestor is playing upstairs, Sarah is practicing in the basement, and Matthew is playing the piano in the living room. This is why I love being home!

Mom is selfless and sensitive. She can read people's emotions like an open book. And she can see far in advance how her actions would affect those around her. She has a very refined way of being, which I hope to have acquired over the years. As a mom she still drops everything to be there for her children. I can't name the number of times she has surprised me at work to save me from a walk in the dark and cold. And she has my school breaks memorized so that she doesn't call during a class. She is particularly aware of the details of people's lives. Their schedules, their goals, their struggles. And she is the first to offer a helping hand when its needed. Last week her and I were walking our neighbors three dogs when we came across a women whose car would not start. Of course we had no car to jump her, but my mom of course found a man across the street to help her. She had to chase him down but she found someone.

I'm so so lucky to be blessed with such incredible parents who have brought me up in the gospel and inspired me to do my best in everything I undertake. How grateful I am for them! And I'm so happy I get to spend the Thanksgiving Break with them.

I can't decide which title to use for this post so I think I'll use them all... Grateful! - Happy! - Hooray! - Life is Lovely!

2010-11-19T14:23:00.002-07:00

This is a short post but life couldn't be treating me better right now. My life is not perfect, but I think that's why it is so wonderful! Someone above is certainly watching out for me...

Gretchen's getting married tomorrow!

Everything for nursing is working out JUST AS IT SHOULD!

Kirsten is coming home tonight for the weekend! Finally!

I'm going to my little sister's play "Singing in the Rain" with some of my favorite people ever !

My new cardigan came in the mail for Gretchen's Wedding!

My favorite holiday is in 6 days!! And then begins my favorite time of the year! Hooray for Thanksgiving and the Christmas Season. For pies, nutmeg, pine cones, blueberry jello, and gorgeous sunsets against the snow.

My "Super" Hero

2010-11-17T00:03:00.001-07:00

Day 6 - My Favorite Super Hero

So I'm taking license to change this post today.... I never was much of a super hero fan. In her post, my sister Kirsten mentions how she never watched Superman until she was in high school... I think that that was my first time as well. Anyhow, I'm changing this post to "My Favorite Hero". Because I do have one of those. =) My girl friends and I used to quote, sing, and rave about the Disney movie Hercules. I think we mostly got excited about the songs. =) Especially this one! ENJOY!

Where I've Been

2010-11-15T23:58:00.002-07:00

Day 5 - A picture of somewhere you've been to...

Did I mention that I love love LOVE to travel? I've been lucky enough to visit some pretty INCREDIBLE places in my short life. =) Here are just a few of them.

Born in Utah

Raised in Idaho

Russia - I've stood right here!

New York City and Carnagie Hall

I got to play that piano!!! Most incredible moment EVER!

Oregon/California

My Bad Habit

2010-11-14T09:23:00.008-07:00

Day 4-A habit that you wish you didn't have

I'm not so sure I like this topic. I have to think of a bad habit that I'm not horribly embarrassed to share? Oh dear....

So instead I thought I'd educate you on WHAT a habit is first...

Habits are automatic routines of behavior that are repeated regularly, without thinking. They are learned, not instinctive, human behaviors that occur automatically, without the explicit contemporaneous intention of the person.

And then I thought I'd show you this link from the Church News entitled "How To Overcome A Bad Habit".

Plus here is a list of the most common bad habits in the United States... Pretty interesting don't ya think?

Overeating
Smoking
Gossiping
Spending Money Unnecessarily
Wasting Time
Lying
Drinking
Cheating
Drugs

....I can't think of any other ways to distract my readers from what the whole purpose of this post is, for ME to tell what my bad habit is. My bad habit is that I am a chronic worrier and thinker. I hold a lot of physical tension in because I hold a lot of stress tension internally. (Oh the things you learn in your dance/somatics classes.) I wish I could be better at relaxing, enjoying EACH moment, and not worrying about what comes next. Yep, that's my bad habit. I worry too much.

And here comes the honesty portion of my blog. I bite my nails when I get really anxious. That needs to stop too. BUT I'm much better than I used to be!

PS - Be sure to check out the tab titled "Inspire Me" on my blog. I posted a Challenge that leads up to Christmas! It will help influence the making of GOOD HABITS! Enjoy!

F.R.I.E.N.D.S.

2010-11-13T20:06:00.004-07:00

Day 3 - A picture of You and your friends

I have been blessed with incredible friends throughout the course of my life. I truly believe that the friends we meet in this life make the journey worthwhile, No matter how difficult the road is. Friends are the people who know everything about you, yet still love you to pieces.

What's in a Name

2010-11-12T20:13:00.000-07:00

Day 2 - The Meaning Behind Your Blog Name

"Find Joy in the Journey" - I created my blog right after I returned from a dance tour in Russia. The title of our show was "The Journey" and each dance depicted a phase of life. In short, it was all about the plan of salvation. Oh how close I grew to the members of that team. The preparation that went into the show was exhausting, both physically and emotionally. I can truly say that many of the happiest moments of my life were experienced as a member of that amazing group. The final dance of our show depicted the reunion of families and friends after life on this earth. It began with President Monson's recent General Conference address.

"I BELIEVE THAT AMONG THE GREATEST LESSONS WE ARE TO LEARN IN THIS SHORT SOJOURN UPON THE EARTH ARE LESSONS THAT HELP US DISTINGUISH BETWEEN WHAT IS IMPORTANT AND WHAT IS NOT. I PLEAD WITH YOU NOT TO LET THOSE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS PASS YOU BY ... INSTEAD, FIND JOY IN THE JOURNEY NOW."

~PRESIDENT THOMAS S. MONSON~

It is my hope that as I record the experiences of each day that I will be able to truly distinguish what is important in my growth as an individual. And I'm so grateful to a loving Heavenly Father who guides and teaches me each day.

15 Things About Me

2010-11-11T11:02:00.003-07:00

They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery right? My younger sister Kirsten recently began a thirty day long series of posts which I absolutely love! And I have been in desperate need of some new ideas to write about, so here goes!

Day 1- Post a recent picture of yourself, and 15 things about you.

1- I love quotes! Most girls have multiple pictures hung up on their walls at school, mine is full of inspiring thoughts I have discovered at church, in books, from Facebook status updates, and of course from other people. They can be funny, inspiring, or crazy! It's so refreshing to discover a quote you wrote down on a whim when you are having a tough or frustrating day.

2. Cardigans are my favorite piece of clothing. Hands down, I probably own more cotton knit, button down sweaters than any other girl on the BYU-I campus. I've got black, grey, white, blue, brown, maroon, turquoise, and plum. (I am certain that I am forgetting a few...) AND I have a new dark red one on the way! I don't know why I have this obsession - maybe its the fact that I'm always cold, or maybe it's because I get to dress up everyday at work. And cardigan's are practical and easy to work with. What ever the reason, I don't mind. I still love my cardigans!

3. I am an extreme planner. And it's evident by the state of my actual daily planner. Each day is broken down, hour by hour, dictating the places I have to be and the tasks I have to accomplish. My favorite discovery thus far? The 4X6 sticky notes! There is something so satisfying about making a list and crossing off each item throughout the day. And its nice that the sticky notes are disposable... it's refreshing to throw those long lists away too! Something shouts "VICTORY" subconsciously.

4. I love to travel! I am a sucker for beautiful landscapes, historic landmarks, and exotic cultures. It's not as if I have traveled all over the world, but the little bit of traveling that I have done has sure convinced me I should have been born in the 2100. (Assuming that traveling would be considerably cheaper then!) The most amazing place I have been? Russia by far. And talk about a historical fountain! I was in heaven surrounded by all the museums, the palaces, and the history. And what are my dreams for traveling in the future? Europe of course, particularly London, Paris, Ireland, and Austria. My list also consists of Thailand, India, Egypt, Jerusalem, Tonga, PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND!!!, Brazil, Mexico, British Columbia... you get the picture? This list could go on for a while!

5. I hate being cold. And I ALWAYS am cold. How does that work? I don't know. I've convinced a few friends that I am cold-blooded. Maybe it's all in my head, maybe it's bad circulation. Whatever it is, I've learned one thing. Being from a cold place like Rexburg does NOT mean that you are by any means use to it.

6. My favorite season is Fall! I love the autumn colors, the smells of pumpkin and spice, the brisk breeze (mind you, there is a difference between COLD and BRISK. I promise.) Nothing beats jacket weather. You can have an enjoyable time outside without breaking out in a hot sweat OR shivering from head to toe. Yes, Fall is by far the most enjoyable time of the year.

7. I faint when I get shots. Many of you know I'm going into nursing... let me just clarify something here. Getting pricked doesn't make me sick, its what happens AFTER that really bites. About twenty minutes after I get any type of injection I get really light headed and my world disappears for a bit. A doctor told me it was a certain syndrome once... I can't remember the name, but it's linked to how your body reacts to the foreign bodies in your blood. So if I ever go get shots I very cheerfully tell the nurse helping me, "Just so you know, I'm going to faint after you give me this shot. I'm just going to lay here for a little bit after, okay?" It's almost funny to me now. I just have to plan an extra half hour more than normal if I know that I'm getting a shot. And as far as I know, pricking someone else shouldn't have much effect on my own body right? I sure hope not!

8. I love chocolates. I buy milk chocolate chips for snacks, not for cookies.

9. I've been Marilyn Monroe blond, and almost Pocahontas brown. I think it comes from having such thin hair that doesn't look healthy long. Coloring it helps keep it fun and fresh!

10. My favorite color alternates. Sometimes it's green, and sometimes it's blue. But my favorite color to wear is black. It's classy and always looks professional. I'm still looking for a Audrey Hepburn pencil cut jumper... in black.

11. I love old classic movies. Nothing will ever beat "Breakfast at Tiffany's", "The North Avenue Irregulars" or "North and South". And if I have to watch a scary movie I despise watching the next epic horror movie of the year. I would much prefer a classic one such as "Wait Until Dark" or "Charades". Maybe I just like them better because I know what is coming next since I have seen them multiple times. I really don't like being scared.

12. I'm a deep cleaner. I drove my sister crazy in high school because she would come home to a huge pile of stuff in the middle of the room, and then I would insist that I was cleaning. Keep in mind that to me, I WAS! I would then take each item, one by one, and put it in the right place. It's a little tedious, but it's accomplishing!

13. It takes a LOT to get me angry. In fact, the only times I really get upset with others is when someone I care about is hurt or offended. Even then, I don't think I've ever raised my voice at anyone besides a family member. And its been a long time since that has even happened. I'm just not a fighter. I'm more of a peacemaker, or so my mom says.

14. I love getting dressed up. I'm all girl! I loves dresses, lace, frill, flowers, make up, shoes, curls, and perfume. But I'm not much of a jewelry girl. I'll wear rings and earrings, but small ones.

15. I love trying new food! My favorite magazines are cooking magazines. I particularly love Mexican and Oriental foods, but I am willing to try almost anything. I ate liver twice while I was in Russia and that is one thing I'd rather not stomach again. I'm silly about my food though. Ever since I started cooking for myself I've become very picky about knowing where my food comes from. And I don't do very well with processed food.

Here is a link to my sister's amazing blog entry that I patterned mine after. She inspires me!

Kirsten's 15 Things About Me

Gulping 101

2010-11-09T21:51:00.001-07:00

Ya know those gulps of air I talked about previously? It's refreshing to know that those gulps can come in so many different forms! They are sources of hope, tender mercies from a loving Heavenly Father who knows what is best for us in the long run. I've been thinking a lot about what my "Gulps of Air" are. Here's is my list, but know that it is NOT comprehensive by any means!

Friends

Family

Broadway Shows

Music

Dance

Piano

Long Car Rides

Old Classic Movies

Audrey Hepburn Clothing

Being Crafty

Cardigans

Working Out

Cooking

Intelligent Discussions

Reading

Scriptures and Prayers

Deep Cleaning

Animals

Shoes on Sale

Sophie

It's crazy how such silly things can give you the breath of fresh air you need. Sometimes I just need to be reminded how easy those gulps actually are to find. =)

I made it!

2010-10-29T17:17:00.001-06:00

This is the shortest post ever because I have to hurry home,

BUT I am so excited because

I made it into the BYUI nursing program!!!

And I can't wait to start in January!

Faith and Trust

2010-10-14T11:05:00.001-06:00

"Faith as the assurance of things hoped for looks to the future. This assurance is founded upon a correct understanding about, and trust in, God and enables us to 'press forward' into uncertain and often challenging situations in the service of the Savior."

~David A. Bednar~

“As children of God, knowing of His great love and His ultimate knowledge of what is best for our eternal welfare, we trust in Him. The first principle of the gospel is faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, and faith means trust.”

~Dallin H. Oaks~

Date Night!

2010-10-14T10:20:00.002-06:00

Tonight...

Kevin and I,

are going out for Thai food...

attending the Peking Acrobat show...

and then crashing down on the homework.

It should be a wonderful night. =)

My New Favorite Discovery

2010-10-13T20:02:00.000-06:00

Here is my random thankful moment for the day.

I've discovered playlist.com. =) It's just about as good as Pandora. Now you might just think, Camille, use your I-tunes. Come on girl, you've gotta have some good music on there! And guess what you are right, to a point.

I DID have some amazing music on my I-tunes.

But that was before the computer crashed, and yep, the treasured compilation of my college years built in music disappeared. Whoops.

Two great things came from it though.

Number 1- I don't spend time reorganizing all of my music like I used to. There is no music to organize or play! I'm a perfectionist and it drove me crazy when a CD wouldn't upload with all of the names of the pieces. My dance music was notorious for doing that. So I would spend hours replacing "Track 1" with "Degage and Tendu 4/4" or something to that nature. Just believe me... don't ever try to become a perfectionist. or obsessive. Like Me =)

Number 2 - I discovered www.playlist.com. Now all those songs that I LOVE but didn't ever buy because I'm a poor college student are right at my fingertips. PLUS, since it is not a music downloading site, just a listening site, I can only access it when I am on the web. Music addiction... not possible. =) Plus guess, what. You hear that music that just turned on when you entered my blog?

Yep... playlist. com. =)

Thanks for laughing along with my silly little thankful moment of the day. =)

Blessings

2010-10-08T07:17:00.002-06:00

Heavenly Father has blessed me a lot in the last 72 hours or so.

And remember that post about "count your many blessings, every doubt will fly"?

Guess what....!?!?!

It works!!!! =)

Now on to another busy busy Friday, AND a pathophysiology test that I simply am NOT ready for.

But ya know, that's okay. Because it is still going to be a wonderful day.

I can feel it!

PS - tender mercy of the day. My work meeting got cancelled for tomorrow. Now I can take the test in the morning. What a relief!!!! =)

Picture Updates!

2010-10-07T23:46:00.001-06:00

A lot has happened in the last few months... and I have been horrible at adding pictures to the blog. Here are a few pictures of the last little while. Life is going wonderfully!

Dropping Kirsten off at college - Boy, we sure do miss her!

Trying to organize our room! We moved the beds around to give ourselves more space.
I am so lucky to have Sarah as my roommate.

This is just proof that the bedroom did get put back in order after we tore it apart. =)

First off, this is not in my apartment, but in the apartment next door. We named the squirrel,
but I can't recall his name right now. He hangs around the third floor all the time.

Roommate Pictures! I have the best roomie ever!

The stunning ladies of apartment 311

I mean it for real this time. =)

2010-10-05T10:46:00.000-06:00

So I know I said that I was going to do this about 3 months ago ... but I'm being honest this time. I need to go private with my blog...

If you would like me to add you as a reader, PLEASE give me your email address so that you can read my blog still! I will be privatizing on Sunday. =) Love you all!

Quote of the Day

2010-09-28T11:46:00.003-06:00

My Grandma T sent me this wonderful quote this morning. I thought it went hand in hand with my last post. Enjoy!

". . . .we cannot obtain it [faith] as long as we deny it. Faith and doubt cannot exist in the same mind at the same time, for one will dispel the other."

President Thomas S. Monson

PS - So today I came home from after classes because I thought cleaning and folding laundry would be more enjoyable than homework... maybe I'm more ready to be a mom then I thought. =S!
Certainly I need to try and enjoy my homework again - school has been much more difficult to commit to this semester! I am always finding new distractions. Not GOOD!!

Count your many blessings...

2010-09-26T10:22:00.002-06:00

Last night at the General Relief Society meeting a phrase struck me... and it has been with me all night. I can't get it out of my head. It was a part of the intermediate hymn. The choir and congregation were singing "Count Your Blessings", a song which I have sang countless times. But I had never paid particularly close attention to the following phrase in the second verse.

"Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly."

I am the queen of doubts. I struggle with stepping forward with faith and not looking back. I always wonder if I have made correct decisions that will truly lead me to where I want my life to go. I flip flop like no other... one day this, the other day that. I don't mean to be like that, but I am a thinker, and sometimes I simply think too much.

I love the moments in my life where I can honestly say all the doubts had dissappeared. Even if those moments were short lived. I want so badly for doubt to disappear from my life. I want to be a strong, firm woman who trusts in the Lord to guide her through the decisions of life, and does not look back at the direction her life is taking with doubts.

Last night I sat down and started making a list of everything I am grateful for. It's long... and I stayed up late trying to not leave anything out. Of course it is still ongoing.... It made me realize a lot of things about what truly makes me happiest in this life. It also pointed out what is most important to me.

So here is the goal - I am going to pay particularly close attention to the blessings in my life this next week. I think its appropriate that next week is General Conference, and its a time where I am searching for direction in my life. I need the doubts to fly away - so that my mind might be clear and ready to accept any guidance the spirit directs towards me.

"Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly."

Next Weekend

2010-09-23T14:33:00.001-06:00

I cannot wait for next weekend! I'm going to Provo to see Kirsten! I have missed her like crazy and we are excited to have some fun between conference sessions. And then on Sunday as I head back I get to go to conference! It's been years since I have been to a session in the Conference Center.

I know this is a short post - I am trying to study for a nasty pathophysiology test that opens today. But I had to share just how much I am looking forward to next weekend. It will be wonderful. =)

New Beginnings

2010-09-19T10:40:00.003-06:00

In the last week and half I have started five separate posts - none of which were completed. It's been an adventure to get everything settled for the new semester. In a way, I am venturing into a new era of my life. There is nothing familiar around me.

I moved apartments after living at the same one for three semesters. With that move came a new ward, and I will admit, I miss the familiarity that was built over the past 2 years. Yes, I was in the same ward for 2 years... Everyone I tell that to says I'm crazy! But I loved that ward.

Next, I'm not on Dance Alliance this year because of schedule conflicts. I didn't know what to do on Saturday- I didn't have practice or work!! Which means I had time to go to the library and do homework. I DID HOMEWORK! On a Saturday! I was trying to look back and remember when the last time was that I had a moment for homework on a Saturday... And I can't recall at all!

Instead I am doing the Collegiate Contempory Team. It will be a completely different experience, but I am certainly excited to still be dancing. It's much less of a time commitement, but I have a feeling the girls on the all girl team will become some of my dearest friends.

Then I am starting the nursing program in the Winter. That will be a crazy adventure of its own! I'm getting ready for endless studying, long clinicals, and a lot of hard work. But I thrive off of stress, so all should be well. And I will have a real job to fall back on if I ever need it. For some reason, that reality brings me so much peace of mind. It is something that I know I need to do, something I need to take a year and a half of my life to complete.

To make things even crazier, a couple of weeks ago my computer decided to crash on me. I lost everything - my music, my pictures, my files, my documents, my memories, my talks I'd written for church, and anything else that was on my hard drive.

BUT I must admit, the Lord has blessed me with a number of tender mercies regarding the crashed computer.

When I shipped it into Apple they sent me back a new computer basically. It has a new hard drive, a new CD drive, a new keyboard, and a new base. I was so sad but all I could do was just laugh about how "lucky" I am - I got a brand new computer out of a pretty awful situation. =)

First, I never upload pictures on Facebook anymore. I just don't. No particular reason, I just haven't been in the habit for a while. But for some strange reason, I spent a couple hours in August uploading quite a few pictures for a summer album. And I am so glad I did - I might only have those pictures via facebook, but they are still memories none the less. I learned my lesson about using my external hard drive faithfully... And I do have all the pictures uploaded onto my external hard drive before spring semester, so not all is lost. Most of it can be recovered. Just nothing from Spring semester besides the Facebook images. =S

I didn't expect the semester to be like this. In fact, if I had seen what was evolving before me I probably would have run long and far away from the change. And I would have been running fast! But I have been witnessing miracles in my life amidst the changes. My perspective has been widened, and my faith in my Heavenly Father's love has multiplied greatly. Life is certainly not perfect, in fact, there are certain days in which all I can do is cling to the only thing that still seems familiar in my daily life. And that is the wonderful Gospel of Jesus Christ. The gospel is my stability and my strength. It is the one thing that keeps me hopeful and full of faith, even in the most frustrating and difficult times. I have learned that life is not structured in a "trial leads to blessings leads to trial leads to blessing" format. Instead the blessings and trials are overlapped and intertwined with one another. The blessings of one trial help us overcome a current new trial. And the new trials often blind us from recognizing the blessings brought forth by our Father in Heaven after the trial of our faith. This overlapping makes it difficult to detect where and when to take a deep breath leading into a fresh new start...

And so I've concluded, you just have to DO IT. You just have to take the deep breath whether you believe you need it right then or not. Each and every day you have to get up, swim (more like KICK) to the surface, and take a huge gulp of air.

You have to pray to the Lord for strength to make it to the end of just one more day. That your gulp will be big enough to last you through that particular day. And then you have to come back to the surface again the next morning. You do it again, gulping in more power and strength to make it through another day.

The Lord knows us OH SO WELL! He knows what experiences will help us grow. He knows how long to let us tread through the trials, and then when to lift us up and out so that we can take a breath. He knows when we need a new start because we are so exhausted that we don't know how we can ever make it to the surface again.

Heavenly Father has blessed me with this time in my life - a time of change and time of adjustment. He will help me make it through, and I'm excited to see where this next era of my life leads.

SO...

New apartment

New Roommates

New Ward

New Major

New Computer

New Music & Pictures

New Dance Team

New Perspective.

.....leads to...

A time of new beginnings.

And I'm excited. =)

Constant Commitment

2010-09-10T09:16:00.001-06:00

Last May I wrote down the phrase

"a state of constant commitment"

on the back of one of my notebooks. For some reason, this simple statement struck me as profound. It described why I had made some drastic changes in the course my life was taking.

I decided to not transfer to BYU, I changed my major plans, and I dived into a well of other uncomfortable endeavors. Many of those dives felt like belly flops... they stung. I even decided to switch wards for the first time in six semesters. And why? Because I sensed that I was becoming stagnant in my growth as an individual... I was so comfortable with my circumstances that I had forgotten the importance of being constantly committed to bettering myself and to having faith in the promptings of the Spirit. Life is about happiness right? And the gospel is what brings that happiness. The closer to God we become, the more happiness we find in our lives. I'm a firm believer of that... I just struggle with having the faith to trudge along when things get tough.

And then one day, "after the trial of your faith," ye shall receive a witness. And that witness for me includes finding happiness. =)

I've been leaping a lot the last couple of weeks, trying to decide what to do with my crazy, hectic, and sporatic lifestyle. How to fit in everything I want to do. How to overcome some roadblocks that keep me from investing my whole self in this wonderful journey called life. I guess the key is reminding myself that consistency helps us achieve goals - consistency helps us reach into the dark and discover light. To discover a witness of the trial of our faith you have to be constantly committed to the Lord.

My Daddy Inspires Me

2010-08-30T10:54:00.005-06:00

First off, Kirsten posted about her first day of college this morning. Click HERE to read more about it! She is such a great writer. =)

It has been a bit too long since I last posted. Life really has not been THAT busy, so I can not claim I haven't had time to post. I just haven't.

I'm sitting in the choir room at the new Madison High School listening to my dad lead his non audition men's group. He is working on creating a single chord with the boys, blending it, and making it sound rich and full. And wow, it has been fascinating to listen to a rough harsh sound develop into something pretty nice, even beautiful in a way. They just started laughing together. The basses and baritones are singing, they just added in the 2nd tenor, and the boys are now clapping and whistling for each other. Yeah! That sounded GOOD!

I love my dad. I'm sure every daddy's girl says this about her father, but I mean it as much as any of them, times a lot. Maybe times infinity. Okay, now I'm just getting proud.
(Ah, that chord keeps getting better and better. They just added a lead note, and a lower bass note. I'm going to melt - even if they are 16 year old high school boys!)

What makes my dad so special to me? There are lots of things.

Dad is patient. He has no temper, at least not one that I have ever witnessed. And I am not making that up or exaggerating in the least bit. My dad has raised his voice maybe three times that I can recall - and all three times were because he was protecting us from some form of danger. Like when I tried to jump into Lake Powell twice when I was 3. And I was going to whether or not the life jacket was on all the way, half way, or not at all. My dad is very good at communicating his feelings. He does not mince words, but he is never harsh. He speaks plainly and with tact.

Dad is a man of integrity. Honesty is of utmost importance to him and he will never say something he doesn't mean. If dad tells of an experience or a feeling, you can be sure that he is not trying to make the story better OR trying hide unnecessary details. He is stating exactly what he knows, no more, no less. We were always told at home that there was at least one thing we could be perfect at - we could be perfect at being honest. That way we would never have to change our story, fighting to remember what we had made up. We could avoid a lot of unfortunate happenings, just from being straight out and honest.

Dad is an amazing teacher. I love watching him teach because the students see him as inspiring, as approachable, and as a man who cares intently. But he doesn't have to act like a student or be immature to reach the students. In fact, his demeanor is very professional and respected by everyone. I'm sure that quality has developed through the years, but it is something that I absolutely love in him. The professional nature. It makes me so proud to be his daughter. Dad's actual title is that of choral director, but I think he could also be given another title -An Inspiring Motivator.

Dad has always put family and the gospel first. His career is very important to him but he knows that stability in our lives exists only when things are in order at home first. I've loved watching how my mom and he work toward goals together. They balance out each others strengths and they are an unstoppable team. They work together in the home, the community, and even for my dad's choir job. In fact, his job is a family affair in many ways. My sisters and I have all been in his choirs and school musicals, and some form of music is always playing in our home. So his work and family merge together quite easily. One of my favorite traditions is how on Sunday afternoons the family would gather around the piano and sing broadway songs and church hymns. (usually one or the other, not both at the same time.)

I'm running out of time before dad comes back into his office to take roll for his next class so I have to wrap this up quickly. Believe me, I did NOT say all I wanted to. My dad is working with the tenors on using falsetto right now. He can sing higher then I CAN! He just stated to them that "singing is not a passive activity", which reminds me of another thing he would always tell me as I was growing up. He would tell his choirs, "There is fun in being serious. You can learn to have some SERIOUS fun. " I love that, and it describes my dad to a tee. Maybe that is what I admire the most. That simple concept that the best things come from hard work, professionalism, and a little bit of fun at the same time.

I love you daddy!

Joyous

2010-08-21T19:34:00.003-06:00

It's been a good weekend.

First, I went to work yesterday morning to find out I wasn't scheduled until 2! Meaning I had four extra hours to accomplish a lot of things that have been on my to do list. And then when I got to work, it went fast because there was so much to get done. Those are the best days ever!

Then right before work ended I learned that my amazing girlfriends were planning a girls night! Talk about the best surprise ever! Chelsea way out did herself. We had steak fajitas with roasted vegetables, red potatoes, and ... I'm definitely forgetting something. It'll come back to me hopefully! Let's just say it was a gourmet meal spectacular! Girls time and girl talk... ah love it.

And this morning Sarah, Catherine, and I kidnapped Kirsten for an early breakfast at the park complete with crepes and orange juice. I don't know how thrilled she was about that at first. But picture us all sitting on a blanket, everything all laid out ready to go (including our scriptures for morning scripture study) and then the SPIRNKLERS turn on all around us. Yep, we were all laughing pretty good. And then picture me dodging sprinklers at 7:30 in the morning in search of a lost fork. Yep, you know you are smiling now. It was pretty great.

This weekend so far...

Simply Joyous.

Ranger Joe

2010-08-13T22:25:00.000-06:00

I was just going through the many stories on our Dance Alliance blog and came across an experience that had left my mind. On day eight of tour our group had the chance to tour the Oregon Caves. We had the most amazing tour guide, RANGER JOE!! Sis. Bone, our director, describes this experience well in the link below.

"Ranger Joe - Day 8"

You can't see me in this picture, I was hiding behind someone on the left. But that is Ranger Joe! He was WONDERFUL!

Be sure to read the link above before continuing

I was lucky enough to be one of those 6 singers. Who says the gospel can't be taught anywhere? I was not able to see Ranger Joe's reaction to our singing because I was down a ways in the tunnel, but I certainly felt the strength that the spirit brought to that tight dark space. My heart was so full of joy for the knowledge that I have been blessed with, that the Lord knows each of us, one by one. He is there to strengthen us, to take us by the hand and lift us. I know that Ranger Joe felt of that power, and he DID mention "I know a little about you Mormons...I don't know about some of that stuff, but ya sure got the family thing right." Boy, did that make me smile when Sis. Bone shared that with us. One day he will understand some of that other "stuff". And I'm so happy we were able to open the door just a crack in preparation for that day.

I thought I would include the words to the hymn we sang.

1. Nearer, my God to Thee,
Nearer to Thee.
E'en though it be a cross
That raiseth me,
Still all my song shall be.
Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer to Thee.

2. Though like the wanderer,
The sun gone down,
Darkness be over me,
My rest a stone,
Yet in my dreams I'd be
Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer to Thee.

3. There let my way appear
Steps unto heaven;
All that Thou sendest me
In mercy given;
Angels to beckon me
Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer to Thee.

Life is good... and always will be.

2010-08-13T10:24:00.000-06:00

Quick post today - I just have to acknowledge one thing. As crazy as things are, even in the summer, life is being good to me. I had a great conversation with one of my very best friends, Sarah Clements, just a few days ago. And you know what we both determined? That with all the twists and turns, the ups and downs, the joys and hurts, the love and the loss, we both LOVE OUR LIVES!!! Life is good and always will be, especially if you decide to make it that way.

Search, Ponder, Pray

2010-08-12T08:26:00.000-06:00

So I realized something exciting and depressing yesterday.... school starts in
28 days!

We have less than a month. Now where did those
wonderful days of summer drift off to?

With that, I realized that means I have only 23 days to accomplish my summer list!

(I can't count the week that school starts - NOTHING besides school and work will be accomplished then!)

So my next few weeks are going to be very busy - but I like it that way. Time flies faster, and in all reality, I love school. I love the classes and learning, I love the library, I love the teachers, I love the people, I love early mornings, and I LOVE roomies.

Anyways, the REAL reason for my post today. Yesterday I made a resolution that I need to be much more consistent with my scripture reading. It has been so easy to slack off with the busy nature of school and work, dancing and tour, friends and family... You get the picture... I have too many silly and invalid excuses!

As I was sitting on my bed last night I had the thought to open this book

and read the quote for the day. Its been a good year since I have taken it off the shelf but it was no coincidence that I did. Guess what the quote of the day was?

August 11th - The Book of Mormon

"And the Book of Mormon and the holy scriptures are given of me for your instructions; and the power of my Spirit quickeneth all things." D&C 33:16

"Believe in the Book of Mormon, as another witness of the Son of God. This book has come forth truths concerning the master set forth in the Bible. The Bible is the testament of the Old World. The Book of Mormon is the testament of the New World, and they go hand in hand in testimony of the Lord jesus Christ. This marvelous book of inspiration affirms the validity and the truth of the divine nature of the Son of God. God be thanked for this precious and wonderful testimony.

Let us read it. Let us dwell upon its truths. Let us learn its message and be blessed accordingly."

And if that quote alone wasn't enough to make me feel inadequate in my recent scripture study habits. My little sisters turned on the movie, Charly, just before bed. There is a scene where she is speaking to "Utah" and she speaks about the Book of Mormon. "It's true," she states. "With all the rotten luck." =) And she speaks of the peace, calm, and joy she feels as she is reading the Book of Mormon. And of how she wants different things in life because of her knowledge of its truth.
If ever there was a time in my life that I needed peace and calmness, it certainly is these crazy college years of my life. And starting out my day the right way, with scriptures and a prayer should most certainly help. =)

We promise to stand by you forever!

2010-08-09T11:32:00.000-06:00

What an amazing last two weeks it has been.

For those of you who don't know, I have spent my last 2 years of college as a member of a group called Dance Alliance.

Last year we toured in Russia,

and I believe that my very first post of this blog was about that trip.

In January I began round two of my Dance Alliance experience.

And we just returned from an incredible two weeks of touring

Oregon and Northern California!!!

Click HERE to see a list of all the different cities we toured!

Not only was it amazing to spend time with my absolute best friends in the whole world, my heart is so full of gratitude to my Father in Heaven for blessing me with the chance to share the joy of life that I have found through the gospel of Jesus Christ in such a unique way -

Dancing!

Be sure to check out our Tour Blog at www.dancealliance2010.blogspot.com

It is full of our individual experiences and lots of pictures!

Our venue at The Dalles, Oregon

The Rose Gardens - Portland, Oregon

Oregon Caves National Park

The Beach at Crescent City, California

The boardwalk in Eureka, California

Validation - - and a mini Tribute

2010-07-22T09:33:00.000-06:00

Disclaimer - Yes, it IS finals week. And YES, I have so much to do. So WHY on earth am I spending my time on my blog.... I don't really know. =) But if its any validation at all (keep your eye on the word I used.), blogging makes me happy! And a ten minute break of happiness hasn't hurt me thus far.

There are certain people I will always remember because of the amazing impact they have on others. One of these individuals is a wonderful women named Mindy Davis. I first met Mindy during the middle of my junior year in high school. I was participating in Madison's Junior Miss Program and her daughter, Molly, was the current Junior Miss. Needless to say, all of the girls involved saw Mindy a lot. She was always coming over to give a helping hand, to cheer us on, and to bring breakfast. All of which were very much needed when you consider how early 6:00am practices seemed to a bunch of already sleep deprived girls. After Junior Miss, Molly and Mindy offered their help whenever it was needed. We spent many afternoons and Mindy's house just chatting about life, the craziness, the struggles and the excitements. When I enrolled for classes my first semester of college I added Mindy's Book of Mormon class first and worked everything else around it. That class Changed my Life! We focused on the importance of the Atonement in our lives the entire semester. That could be another post on it own! (I'll have to remember that.) All in all, Mindy has an amazing perspective and attitude about life.

Anyways, about 3 months ago I visited Mindy because her daughter Molly was opening her mission call! (Molly leaves in August for the England Manchester Mission!) I had just experienced a very hard time in my life and to be honest, I simply spilled everything. Mindy simply decided she was going to make me smile. She took out her computer and shared this little clip with me. Today while I was doing my homework I recalled it and just started to smile. Hope you enjoy! And thank Mindy for all of the little things you do that make you incredible!

(excuse the scattered thoughts and the unchecked grammar, it IS finals week and time is limited.) =p

Ten and a Half

2010-07-22T06:52:00.000-06:00

Today marks the last day of a long time.

Ten and a half months of being in school non-stop!!

I think its going to be hard to go back after only 7 weeks,

especially when I know I am in for another crazy 10 1/2 months.

I love school, and I love to be busy...

but I found out something pretty important this last semester.

I love to BREATHE too!

Quote of the Day

2010-07-18T16:57:00.000-06:00

Sitting at home with my family, my dad leans over to kiss my mom. Little brother Matthew, age 7, cringes and matter of factly states...

"THAT was awkward!"
(emphasis on the "that")

...followed by bursts of laughter from the family
Oh, how we love that boy!

Priceless memory. =)

That feeling that I felt...

2010-07-13T21:17:00.002-06:00

JOY

noun

a. Intense and especially ecstatic or exultant happiness.

b. The expression or manifestation of such feeling.

A source or an object of pleasure or satisfaction

v. joyed, joy·ing, joys

To take great pleasure; rejoice.

To fill with ecstatic happiness, pleasure, or satisfaction.

To enjoy.

Today I experienced an emotion that I haven't felt in a long time. And it was crazy how it came to be. I was sitting in devotional, jotting down insights from an amazing message. And I realized just how blessed I really am. Each and every opportunity I am part of is a blessing. Whether it is hard or easy. You know what I felt?

I Felt Joy!!!!

And since that word is the title of my blog, I hope I will feel that feeling a little more often!