2009 in review

First of all, Happy Birthday to my mom yesterday. She is the best ever!

Today is the last day of 2009. How is time going by so fast? Really, it seems like I was just celebrating the end of 2008! Anyway, I was thinking about how much has happened this year, it's been extremely eventful for me. So, I think I'll just list a few of them.

This year:

I reached my half way point of my years at BYU.
My parents moved to Fruit Heights.
I went to Yellowstone for the first time in my life.
I fell in love.
I decided not to go on a mission.
I got my first kiss.
I became an aunt.
I lost my Grandma B.
I got engaged.
I scheduled my temple sealing.
I turned 21.
I started planning a wedding.
I spent Christmas Eve with Jacob's family(first Christmas Eve away from my family)
I bought a wedding dress.

All in all, it was probably the best year of my life so far. But, I think next year will be even better.

Miracles DO Happen.

So, I was really quite stressed about when in the world I would get all my wedding stuff done. But most of all, I was stressed about finding a wedding dress. I'm not going to be home for any other full days when my mom doesn't have work, and I had no idea how I was going to find a dress today without completely wearing myself out. I really just wanted a day to relax.

Well, today we did go dress shopping. And at the very first place we went, I tried on a dress. And the very first dress I tried on was everything I have been hoping to find. It is PERFECT. Plus- it's a great quality dress, that they had for HALF OFF because they are closing out the bridal part of their store. So, we bought it! I have my wedding dress! It is beautiful and I love it. We also found shoes and a gorgeous tiara. So now I just need a veil, and I might borrow Jacob's sister's.

AHH!! I am so much less stressed today than I was before, I'm so happy!

Christmas

Well, I must say that this Christmas has by far been the most interesting of my life. Christmas isn't usually very different for my family, because we have a lot of traditions and usual activities. So, this year, it was interesting for me to experience Christmas in an entirely different way.

On the 23rd Jacob and I finally got out of Provo and headed to his parents house. That night we celebrated Christmas Adam with some of his extended family, which was a lot of fun. On the 24th Jacob and I went downtown to do some last minute shopping, and of course had to stop and get lunch at our favorite Thai food restaurant, Thai Lotus. Jacob has really broadened my horizons when it comes to food). Last night his parents had some family members over for a Christmas devotional where people shared Christmas stories and musical numbers. It was a beautiful night, and even though I really missed my family, I fully enjoyed myself. I also enjoyed learning all about the Ross' Christmas Tree, which is themed around symbols of Christ. It is such a beautiful tree, and I love the concept behind it. And of course we also played some Wii, which is always fun. The only drawback to the day was the fact that I felt slightly sick all day long. Not my favorite Christmas Eve activity.

And now, today is Christmas. My family beat the Ross household awake, so I got to wake up to texts from Mom, Dad, and David. I bummed around for awhile in the room I'd been staying in, until I finally made myself for the day. I got some great presents from Jacob and his family, some of my favorites being the wooden magnet and ring box his dad made for me. They are beautiful! I also LOVE the scarfs I got, and the awesome hat Jacob gave me. We had a delicious breakfast of ebelskivers before Jacob and I packed up the car and headed to Fruit Heights in time to meet my family and head to lunch in Syracuse at my aunt Karla's. We were there for about an hour before we headed back down to Salt Lake for dinner with some of Jacob's family at his grandma's. Which was delicious! And then, we headed back up to Fruit Heights for the rest of the weekend.

To say the least, it's been an interesting and different Christmas for me. But, the spirit of Christmas has still been there. I'm so glad to be marrying Jacob, who has a family that I've already begun to love and feel so welcome with. And, even though this Christmas has been an unusual one for me, I'm the happiest I've ever been. (Yes, I'm happy, despite the fact that I'm not facing the stress of planning a wedding, yay). I love my family, and I love Jacob's family, and I love Jacob more than I'd ever loved anyone. And I suppose that's why it still feels like Christmas, because that's really what it is all about. Love. Love for each other, Love for our Savior and Heavenly Father, and their Love for us.

So, Merry Christmas everyone. I know by the time you read this, it won't be Christmas anymore, but the truth is, we should never let what we call "the spirit of Christmas" completely fade from our lives. Thank you all for your love, friendship, and support. I hope you're holidays have been great, and continue to be so.

P.S.

Anybody who has any good ideas for wedding stuff at a good price, I would love to hear them!
Okay, that's all.

The latest and greatest, and not so greatest.

Just thought I'd give a few updates:

On Friday Jacob had to work. Which meant I had to find someone else to enjoy my night with. So, I partied with Jill. It was so great, I don't do nearly enough with that girl anymore. It was so much fun! We went to the mall and did some shopping, even though we both are a little low on money. We decided that we are the perfect shopping partners! We both have similar feelings about what we're willing to spend, and we help each other be a little more adventurous. It was the perfect way to celebrate the end of finals.

Saturday I went back to the mall with Jacob to do some Christmas shopping. It was so much fun to finally be free to just enjoy some time together. We came to the conclusion that I should wear more hats. I like hats, and I look good in them...but I don't wear them all that often. It was nice to know that Jacob agrees that they look good on me. We were going to make some delicious Clam Chowder together, and bought all the ingredients...but decided to wait till Sunday. Instead we watched Star Trek. Such a good movie!

While we were shopping we decided to check out rings for Jacob, just to get some ideas. Well, we found one that he really likes, and it was on sale. So, I bought it. It's pretty exciting to have his ring!

On Sunday we ended up not making the clam chowder, because we went and had a delicious meal at our bishop's house. MMmmm. Sis. Bourne certainly makes some absolutely tasty food.

Later Sunday though, we had some bad news. Jacob and I had thought that we'd found a fantastic deal on a cruise for our honeymoon. But...turns out that price that we thought was for both of us was per person. So, the cruise is out of the question now. But, that's okay. We'll find something else. We're looking at Seattle now, and I'm pretty excited about that.

I guess that's about it. Oh wait! They cleaned the carpets at work! Which means that it's a little bit easier to vacuum! That made me pretty happy. But, I'm working 6 hours a night now, so I spent an hour and half cleaning walls in the racquetball courts, and of course that was fun. NOT.

Love-Hate Relationship

I have one. With the salt that BYU uses to melt the ice on campus.

Sure, everything is all fine and dandy and great when they use salt, right? It melts all the ice, I no longer have to be afraid of slipping, falling, breaking my head open and dying, or at the very least bruising my pride and my backside. So the salt is great, we should all love it! Yay for the salt!

WRONG!!!!!! See, I only love it when I'm out walking around campus on an icy cold day. But as soon as that salt gets inside, it's pure EVIL! You all laugh, but it's true. Take my word, as a custodian who has to to deal with it. A. When it is still intact in little white balls, it refuses to be vacuumed up. Refuses I tell you! B. As you get further inside, it's no longer seeable, but it's there, lurking, in the carpet. And let me tell you, that salt does NOT get along with my vacuum. Not at all, and so then I have to force my vacuum to go at all. It feels more like I'm pushing something that weighs as much as I do instead of some dinky, mostly plastic vacuum. Which means by the end of the day at work, my right arm has gotten a really good workout, and I'm sweating like a pig from having to push a vacuum so hard. The other day it was so bad that it made my back hurt!

So, that's right. I do have a love-hate relationship with salt. IceMelt salt to be specific. Or maybe I should really just blame it on the students who track it into the RB....hmmmm.......

On the other hand, here are some things I have a clear cut relationship with.
I HATE:
The fact that I have a cold and my nose is running like it's in a marathon.
That my books for next semester are going to cost me upwards of 300 buckaroos.
That I don't really get much of a Christmas break because Jacob and I are being responsible and working some extra hours.
The fact that those extra hours are all at different times and that we won't have time to have fun adventures together while we're stuck in Provo.
The fact that I can never quite remember how to spell vacuum(is it two c's, two u's, or two of both?)

I LOVE:
Jacob.
The fact that I just took my last final and I feel pretty good about all of them.
That is warmed up a little bit and I don't' feel like a human icicle the second I step outside.
That it is going to be Christmas Eve in a week, and Christmas the day after that.
That spellcheck can take care of my "vacuum"s for me.

MMM...Chlorine....

Weird, I know. Get over it. Ever since I was on swim team in high school I have loved the smell of chlorinated pools. I think it's because I constantly smelled like chlorine, I am serious, even after showering there was still a lingering scent on my skin. And I started to love it.

Today when I was at work, in the RB where BYU's pool is, I walked by a door that was open to the pool and was hit by a wave of pool scented air. I breathed in nice and deep, it was heavenly. It was then that I realized that I NEED to go swimming. Okay, it may be more like a really strong want, but I feel like it needs to happen. Too bad it's winter so my apartment complex's pool is closed. And....when the pool on campus is open to everyone I'm either A. working, B. sleeping, or C. in class. Yeah....I've never used the school's pool.

So in my heart right now I'm a little sad because it's been so long since I went swimming. Sad day.

Also....I take my first final tomorrow, so wish me luck. I'll probably need it since it's my Spanish Oral Final...and I always forget words because I'm so nervous.

On another random note, I watched Mulan with my roommates yesterday. WOW it's been forever since I watched that movie, sooo good. But I think my brain has become too analytical...I notice too many things. (Luckily I can mostly shut that part off, or I'd never enjoy a Disney movie). So, in the first 5 minutes of the movie I made a new discovery. Before she cuts her hair, Mulan is CONSTANTLY playing with it! Kudos to Disney for paying attention to a detail like that. I'm pretty sure any girl with long hair has a hard time not fidgeting with it at some point and time.

Okay, I'm done now....get back to whatever it is you are supposed to be doing but are avoiding by reading my blog. And to those of you who are fellow students of mine, good luck with your finals!

Don't know what to do

So....the end of the semester is always confusing for me, it throws me for a loop. I really do work better when I know I have a lot to do on a tight schedule. I somewhere along the line developed a coping mechanism of not letting myself get too stressed(usually) so being busy isn't' a huge problem.
Just a week and a half ago I felt like I had TONS to do and barely enough time to do it. But, I got it done, with plenty of time to spare. And now I'm sitting at the end of the semester and I look at my schedule and I've got a grand total of three assignments to do. Two of them are fairly short assignments and the other isn't due until after finals. And I can't get myself to do ANY of it! Really, I mean it. Apparently as soon as I no longer feel under pressure I can't work at all. Annoying. I hate not being able to get myself to work...and yet I've been fighting myself to get any homework done at all today.

To add to the problem, now that I'm not feeling overly stressed with homework I have started to think...WEDDING. I mean, really, I have 5 months(a little less actually) but I'm already being sucked in to it. I've been looking at wedding dressed online today, and I've been thinking about flowers, and oh, I just want to plan everything right now! Too bad it can't work that way.

Speaking of flowers, my cousin Liesel is AMAZING! She is majoring in floral design so of course I would want her to do my flowers....but....she is leaving on a mission and goes to the MTC in approximately 11 days. I am super excited for her, but of course disappointed that she can't to my flowers. But what makes her so awesome is the fact that she sent me a PowerPoint of some ideas for flowers, and I pretty much think I love them! I'm going to use calla lilies, and they will be amazing. Which is one reason I'm getting super excited.

Speaking of exciting, I called the temple, and Jacob and I officially have an appointment at the temple! For April 30th at 10:45am. Of course, with the way our lives are so crazy, the day AFTER I called his mom found out she has a huge choir concert on the 30th. But...no worries. We are just going to do our reception on the 1st. Which I'm actually kind of happy about. But yeah, there you go, wedding plans are always going crazy. FUN!!!

But honestly, no matter how crazy things get, it will be totally worth it, since I'll get to spend eternity with the man I love!

Hope this rambly entry wasn't too annoying. :)

What is my problem?

I've been realizing something lately. something very disconcerting and annoying. And definitely a personality trait that I really need to change.
I love people, I really do. But I'm definitely not perfect and I judge way more than I should. Which means I am super lousy at being understanding sometimes. Which is something Jacob has had to put up with a lot lately. And I feel super bad about that. Luckily, he's amazing and much more understanding and patient with me than I probably deserve.
Want to know the most annoying part though? Generally I know how stupid I'm being, and I understand that I should be patient. So I try not to get frustrated, but I usually do anyway. Then I try to hide it and get over it. But usually people catch on anyway. (Especially Jacob).

So...judging from my second to last post before this one, I've got a bad trend going on. I try to hide my feelings when I know I shouldn't' have them. And I mean, I suppose it's kind of a good thing because I know I shouldn't feel the way I do. But, on the other hand, people shouldn't ignore their feelings.

Any solutions? At least something I can do while I work on being more patient. Because they'd be appreciated. :)

"But you never answered my question."

I'm sure most of you who actually read this already know this news....but why not repeat it, and some of you don't so:

I'M ENGAGED!!!!!!

Jacob and I have been dating since the end of June, and I knew we were going to get married, and that he wanted me to have the ring by Thanksgiving, but I was still so surprised! And it still feels so unreal and yet perfectly normal and oh so exciting all at the same time.

Now, I know you all want pictures and the story so here you go:

So, my ward does this thing called "Love notes" every Sunday where after ward pray where you can write notes to anyone in the ward, put them in a folder, and have them delivered. Jacob has always written me poems for this, but a few weeks ago he "randomly" came up with the idea to write me a series of poems that went together and then we'd make a date out of finishing it. So he had written me three when we went yesterday to finish them. Of course it finally decided to be all cold and snowy, so we couldn't' do a fun picnic. So we went up to campus and wandered around for a while. We ended up in my favorite building on campus(the JFSB) in a area with seats that looked out on the beautiful courtyard. He read the first three notes to me and then started writing the fourth one, saying it aloud as he did so. When I knew he'd be getting close to the end of the poem he paused and then finished it by saying, "but you never answered my question." I turned and asked what question, and he then proceeded to explain to me/show me that over the four notes he had sneakily placed the words, "Will you marry me?" in spaces corresponding with the numbers he'd written on the bottom of the poem which I thought was just to keep the order I'd received them in straight. I had no idea! It was great!

So we sat there for a while just enjoying being with each other and then he took me out to lunch, and then I called my mom :) and other family members. But seriously, I am the happiest person alive since then.

As for the ring, it's perfect. We talked about it months ago and what preferences I have, but I've always wanted the ring to be a surprise whenever I thought about getting engaged. We talked about a colored stone and I knew that is what he was leaning towards, but over the past few weeks I started wondering if I'd really be okay with something besides a diamond. Well....the moment he pulled it out of his pocket I fell in love with the ring. It's a beautiful blue sapphire with two tiny diamonds set on either side. But of course a picture is worth a thousand words so here you go(by the way it is more blue in the light then this looks, it was really hard to get a good picture showing the design and the color):

And here is me and my fiancee!!!

Just Thinking

Sometimes I wonder if I get my feelings hurt or get offended to easily. Actually I know I sometimes do.. But I try to avoid it. But in the last couple days when I've just been tired and stressed out anyway, I've had a chance to kind of watch myself. A couple of actually quite small things have happened lately or been brought to my attention that have really upset me. And it's not like I'm out of control upset, but they are on my mind. And I'd probably feel better if I did something about it by talking to people. But, the people don't' even know they've done something to annoy me or hurt my feelings, or whatever. So...do I bring it up or not?

Cause here is the thing. I hate conflict, especially with people I really care about. As in, I really really really hate it. I will do anything at all possible to avoid it, even if it means holding things in for too long and then blowing up about something later. It's a quite stupid thing I do, but I understand why I do it. When I do end up getting in a discussion/argument with people, my feelings are easily hurt. Sure, that's not the best personality trait, but that's me and it's not really something I can change. Well, I don't like being hurt. So, either I get really hurt, or I find a way to protect myself. Well, generally my protecting myself leads to me being really really really mean. Because I stop letting myself care about emotions, not just mine, but other peoples as well.

So, see my dilemma. I don't like being mean, and I don't like being hurt, so then I don't' bring things up. But then I end up with a cloud hanging over my head until I can just force myself to forget about whatever happened that bothers me. It's a vicious cycle, and I don't know what to do. And this post is really just kind of to let me vent, so sorry you had to read it.

In other news, life is pretty good right now. I had a really crappy day earlier this week, but such things are few and far between in life lately, and I certainly love it. yay for life.

Happy Birthday!!!

Well, yes it is Halloween, so Happy Halloween to all of you out there!
But also it is the birthday of two of the most important men in my life.

First off, Happy Birthday Dad! I love you! Over the years you have taught me so much, been a great source of advice and guidance, a true friend, and most of all, you have always loved and supported me. I'm so glad you are my dad, and I'm truly so lucky to be your daughter. I hope this has been a great day for you, you certainly deserve it.

Secondly, Happy Birthday Jacob! I feel so lucky to have you in my life and I hope that never changes. You take such good care of me and make me so happy. I love you so much and hope to celebrate many more birthdays with you! Love you!

Yeah, aren't I so lucky to get to celebrate the birthdays of two wonderful men in my life? So while the rest of you are finding ways to get candy and win the costume contest, I get to think about how blessed I am in have them in my life. Wow, I'm one lucky girl.

I hope the rest of you enjoy Halloween though!

HELP!!!!

Okay, so I'm going to ask you guys to help me out if at all possible here.

I have a plane ticket, cause you know I was going to go to Louisiana this summer, but couldn't because of work.
Well, that plane ticket cost me 360 bucks, and I'm not really going to use it, so right now that money has basically been wasted.
However, Southwest is pretty awesome, and my ticket is still usable till June, and the destination and date can be changed. I can even give my confirmation number to someone else and let them change the passenger info and then just pay me for the ticket.
So, what I'm asking is that if any of you need a ticket anytime soon, or know somebody who does, and can use this, let me know if you're interested at all. I could really really use the money, and to sweeten the deal a little, I'd even be okay with not getting the whole 360 back. I was thinking somewhere around 300. So yeah, help me out if you can at all!

Thank you all!

Life is Great!

So, Jacob went home with me this last weekend and we went to my old ward in Layton cause Heidi is home! It was so great to see her and everybody else from the Fairfield ward.
Also, my parents and Jacob's parents both supplied us with delicious food over the weekend. boy we were spoiled. It was so great!

Also, it is fall. And there are so many beautifully colored leaves. And, there are some on the ground, that are really really crunchy when you step on them. Ah....love that sound. Love fall.

I haven't been overwhelmingly loaded down with homework. It's a great feeling.

Yesterday I randomly ran into Sara K.G. on campus, and then we ran into Jill, and then Amanda walked by. Ah...I have so many good friends. It was great to just sit and talk for a bit with them.

Also, I'm going to the temple any minute now to do some family names. I love doing that and it isn't an opportunity I get often.

And last of all, there is this great guy in my life named Jacob. I'm kind of in love with him, and he kind of makes life beautifully fantastic.

Grandma B

Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.

She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.

She looketh well the ways of her household, and eateth on the bread of idleness.

Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.

Proverbs 31:25-28

I have never met a woman who this scripture fit more perfectly than my Grandma B. Early Friday morning Grandma returned home to the Lord. I'm sure her reception was glorious, and that she found waiting for her not only her heavenly parents, but also her earthly parents, her siblings, and husband she hadn't seen for 30 years. Grandma and Grandpa will be celebrating and anniversary together this week for the first time since he passed away 30 years ago. Grandma was ready to go, and we are glad she is finally at peace, but she will be missed.

I think I spent as much time growing up at Grandma's as I did at home, and there is a very special place in my heart for the beautiful woman. Sarah, David and I spent countless days at Grandma's. We would play with the typewriter, sled down her hill, help her water the rose bushes, climb the cherry tree, sleep on her water bed, and oh so many more things. Grandma taught me how to share, how to compromise, to always be kind, and to be happy, obedient, and loving. She taught me to love the gospel, and the temple. And all of this she did by neary perfect example, in years and years of service to the church, her neighbors, and most of all her family.

Grandma's love was perfect. She saw past the flaws and loved me for who I could become. She came to countless school performances, piano recitals, birthdays, christmases, and so many more important events in my life. Her support and love were special gifts, and she never hesitated to tell me how special I was, and how proud she was of me. She was alwas giving, and always doing, giving of herself to serve others.

As she got older it was our turn to serve her. But she was still always so concerned about us and how we were doing. When speaking became more difficult, I could see her love for me in her eyes, I could feel it just by being near her. Her example over the years is a huge part of who I am now, and I am so grateful for the part she played in my life. I miss her already so very much, but Grandma has gone home to the peace and happiness she has deserved for so long. And now I have even more incentive to live my life well, because when my time comes, I want to be with her again, to feel her loving arms wrapped around me. Until then, I'll do my best and keep her memory always in my heart.

I'm pretty excited...

because in a week Heidi gets home from her mission! It has been ever so long since I've seen her. And I cant' wait for more good times and memories like these:

yesterday

it got cold. so I:

drank hot chocolate
listened to Christmas music
wore long pajama pants
used my warmest blanket.

And I remembered, that although I hate being cold, once you get inside, winter has kind of a cozy feeling to it. I think that decision had something to do with the Christmas music. I'm kind of looking forward to that. 2 months and 24 days till Christmas!

Which means my birthday is 2 months from yesterday. I'll be 21. How did that happen?

Wow, this post grew. I really just wanted to let you all know I broke out the Christmas music yesterday. Okay, THE END.

Told you so

Remember my theme for the summer? "Happiness is a choice"

Guess what, I'm not the only one who thinks so. Well, duh. But guess who else thought so? And wrote a whole long treatise type thing about it lots and lots of years ago? Aristotle. That's who. Yeah, I felt pretty smart. Me and Aristotle thinking the same way.

Anywho, that's what I learned about in World Lit yesterday. Go Aristotle.

Oh yeah...did you know that Shakespeare invented the word lonely? Who would have thought. I learned that in my Shakespeare class.

Also, there is a hilarious show on YouTube called Que Hora Es? It's a Spanish soap opera for people who only had three terms of Spanish...in the 4th grade. That's what I learned about in Spanish today(I promise that's not all)

The women's footwork for the reverse turn of the ballroom waltz is TH T TH HT T TH.

All dialects are created equal. You may not believe that, but the Linguistics who took a Usage class will teach you differently.

So, there is a nice little update for you on how my classes are going. Hope it wasn't too boring for you.
And remember, choose Happiness. I do.

Tales of the RB(among many other ramblings)

Perhaps I should have called this heads of the RB...big heads of the RB. So, I've been working in the RB for like a year now, right? And all of the custodial supervisors and most of the custodians themselves are always complaining about the dancers. Usually the ballroom dancers. So I just used to think so...whatever...they're not that bad. None of them had ever really bothered me before, they seemed like nice enough people. I'm kind of friends with a couple of them...and some of them can even be quite nice. But lately...I've kind of been annoyed by them, which made it really entertaining to overhear a certain conversation the other day between some ballroom dancers. So, there are these signs in the RB asking people not to sit in the hallways and thanks for not getting in the way etc. and then some asking people not to use bathrooms for changing rooms. Typical signs in a college building right? So I'm cleaning and I hear this:
Guy 1- "I don't know why they keep putting up these signs for the dancers, it's our building" (Okay, so the dancers definitely don't own the building, BYU does AND they are not the only ones who use that building.)
Guy 2- "mumble mumble mumble, and the Folk Dancers blah blah blah" (So he starts complaining all about the fold dancers and I'm thinking, so you think you're better than the Folk dancers..hmm. I've had less problems with them than you guys)
So yeah, I found that pretty hilarious. Especially the one guy claiming it was their building. haha, so funny. I really wanted to just go tell him how stupid that statement was, but I didn't.

On to another funny note. They recently put stickers on some of the doors in the RB. You know, the ones informing everyone to be careful because they are automatic doors. You've all seen them. I've always been entertained by the fact that if you read like any normal person would it reads "Automatic Caution Door" I mean technically they mean, "Caution: Automatic Door." Two totally different things, right? I thought I'd share with you all what I generally picture in my head when reading these doors. I picture these doors automatically and somewhat magically coming to life, sticking out hands(which they obviously don't' have) in the sort of universal don't' move fashion and shouting, "Caution, caution!" Pretty silly right? But hey, it's not my fault they can't make signs that make sense in the English language when properly read. At least in my opinion they don't.

So, now that I've made you all laugh I'm going to move on to a more serious note. How the heck does life keep moving on so fast on me!?! Seriously!?! The first friends of mine that I generally wrote on their missions were my cousin's two friends that are twins. Yeah...one of them is back and the other gets back this week. When did this happen? It seems like they just barely left. And Brian only has four months left, right? How did that happen. I don't' know. So I'm sitting here thinking, wow those missions go by fast, and Liesel up and gets her mission call! I'm super excited for her, she's going to Cebu Philippines and leaves December 16th. So not only is Liesel now taking off on her mission soon, it means we're both getting so old! Because of course I'm now not going on a mission because I'm sort of in love with somebody and kind of want to marry him somewhere along the line. When did we grow up? I don't know. Oh and just a point of interest, had I turned in mission papers, I also would have gotten my call this week. Weird....

Okay, that's all for my random ramblings. Goodbye now.

So busy

So, it's true that I'm a slacker and haven't written in a few weeks. Lame Lydia. (ooh alliteration) Let me explain why there has been a lack of entries on this lovely blog:

Classes
Work
Homework
Boyfriend
Friends

Yeah, do those seem like enough sufficient reasons? It seems like it to me. Trying to fit all of those things into my schedule means I'm ever so busy. Which means computer time is limited. And for some reason the blog just seems to fall by the wayside when that happens. I apologise to you though.

So now you're thinking, "how does she have time to write at this point and time?" I'll explain. It's Saturday, which is a beautiful thing in and of itself because not only do I not have classes, but I also don't have work. As for the homework factor, I've spent about 5 or 6 hours on homework today and if I do any more homework, my brain will esplode(yeah, I noticed the typo, but I liked it so it's still there). As for the friends and boyfriend thing, I'm sitting in the living room at Jacob's and Catherine, Jesse, and Dan are here too. But....Catherine is doing her homework(go Catherine!) and the boys have gotten into one of their crazy discussions(oh boys). So I find myself having some extra time with my laptop sitting in front of me and I thought: BLOG!!!

Now that you know how I have time for this entry let me get around to it. So, I'm so happy I stayed here in Provo. Obviously I'm glad to still be here with Jacob, but I also have some awesome classes. I'm taking Spanish 105, an English Usage class, Shakespeare, a World Lit class, and a dance class with Jacob. So, my classes are going to be hard, and I already have soooo much homework. But, I'm learning and it's exciting. I'm especially excited for my Shakespeare class. I kind of was a little worried that I'd find it boring(I know, what kind of English major would I be) but I have this awesome teacher who makes it so interesting and fun! YAY for good teachers.

Also, I still like my job. I may complain every day before I leave, but I like it. My supervisor is awesome, and I get to just think while I do menial cleaning. Yeah, I'm glad I got to keep my job. It pays pretty good too. Also a good thing.

So there is just a little update for you there on my life. I'll try and write a couple more entries tomorrow or something, like on about my awesome roommates, and my adorable niece(and the rest of the family) and such things. Adios mis amigos. Te amo(yeah, that's right, I'm still in Espanol mode. Go Spanglish.).

So, I met this guy...

A classic quote from Jill. I was reminded of it when I found the quote wall from freshmen year. Wow that seems forever ago sometimes. I'm starting this entry off with that quote because I think it's a pretty good description of my summer. Well, not exactly since I knew Jacob before this summer, but it still works. Another one I thought about using was the classic, "life is what happens while you're making other plans" but it was just to cliche. This entry may turn out to be kind of long and rambly, but it's my entry about everything that has happened to me over the past couple months, what I've been thinking about, and what I've learned. So there is a lot of that.

There are a few things in life that I really don't like doing. I don't know what I'm necessarily bad at them, but I don't trust myself to be able to do them well. Then include, making big decisions, changing my plans, being patient, trusting completely in the Lord, dealing well with stress, asking other people about what I need to do with my life, that sort of thing. It seems that the Lord felt I needed to grow up this summer and learn how to handle such things, because he seems to have been teaching me about them on a daily basis.

Jacob and I started dating towards the very end of June, and before too long it was clear that he was special and important part of my life, and I didn't want to lose him. But, I was going on a mission, that was my plan. And I don't change plans. But, for the first time in years my heart wanted something else as much as it wanted a mission, and I faced weeks of pondering, indecision, and uncertainty. I think my heart made the decision to stay long before my head would let me admit it to myself, but eventually my heart and head agreed. I was staying, and my mission will have to wait.

The answer on what I should decide in that case came a lot faster than I expected it to. But as soon as it was made, I faced another decision. Stick to the plan and move home, or try and find a way to stay in Provo? Then thrown into the mix was the option of trying to take classes, or just finding a job off of campus? And where would I find a place to live if I did stay in Provo? And where could I find a job, whether I moved home or not I still needed to find one.

All of these questions were running marathons in my head as last week started and from there the week only became more stressful. I found that the classes I needed did have openings, but how would I find a way to pay for them? I decided I wanted to try and stay in Provo, but where would I live? As the week passed, one day I would feel that I had an answer, a solution, and the next day it would come crashing down around me, and nothing seemed to be working. I experienced an emotional roller coaster unlike any I've ever been on before and by Thursday evening I found myself at a breaking point. I fell to pieces and bawled to my mom. I felt like I wasn't getting any answers. I didn't even know if I was supposed to be finding a way to stay in Provo or not. And if I was supposed to stay, how was I supposed to find way to make it all work?

Right now I'm sitting in my apartment, in Provo. Jacob is here with me, and I didn't' even have to change buildings. I can take out a loan to pay for classes, and may even get my half tuition scholarship rewarded to me by virtue of a petition recommended by my financial aid advisor. Everything has worked out and I'm surrounded by a feeling of peace and happiness that was nearly impossibly to find last week. But looking back I can realize how much I did learn as I went through that difficult time.

I've been forced to make a lot of decisions this summer, to seek a lot of answers on what I should do, and I've learned to recognize when the Lord is answering my questions. But I've also learned to recognize that sometimes the Lord needs us to figure things out on our own. Sometimes that make you feel as if the Lord has abandoned you, or maybe he just doesn't care. I'll admit that I started to feel that way last week. But once I got a handle on my emotions I realized that the Lord was helping me to grow. I had to take care of my own problems now, so that I'll know how to take care of them in the future.

This summer the Lord also taught me it's okay to change my plans. I've done that a lot this summer, it even started before Jacob became such a big part of my life. It's okay to rearrange things, as long as you're sure that your plans are what the Lord wants them to be.

I don't think I'll ever be perfectly patient, but I've learned a lot about that too. In the end, everything worked out for the best, and I couldn't' be happier. Halfway through the week I ran out patience, and it was then that I found myself at the breaking point. But the Lord is always in charge, and everything will work out. Sometimes you just have to wait for his time table.

I also had the opportunity last week to learn more about the priesthood. I had two separate blessings last week, from two amazing priesthood holders that I appreciate having in my life. I know that the priesthood is real. The promises that were made to me came true, and as long as I held to them, I was able to keep myself calm and feel at peace. I'm so grateful that I have so many worth priesthood holders in my life, that I can be blessed by those I love.

I've also learned a lot about the power of pure love this last week. Some people may find my crazy for it, but I knew I loved Jacob after only a few weeks of dating him. But I've been able to prove the strength of that love to myself as I have found myself creating situations of stress and indecision in my life because it would be better for our relationship. I've also learned about the depth of love Jacob has for me. His love and support for me were the only things that kept me going last week. He was a constant source of calm and peace for me when I desperately needed that in my life.

So I guess what I'm saying is I've grown a lot, and I've learned a lot. My life is now heading in a direction I thought I wouldn't get to for years. But apparently the Lord knew who I would need and when I would need him. I'm glad I'm learning to put the Lord in charge of my life, because he does a better job of running it than I ever could. I'm grateful that he loves me enough to give me opportunities to learn and grow and be happy. And I'm also grateful for all my family and friends that have supported me with guidance, advice, prayers, and love as I've faced my recent challenges. I love you all and promise to be there for you when you need me.

Eh?

That was a sound I heard a lot up at my family reunion this year, due to the fact that it's one of the only things my cousin Easton currently says, but he uses it to communicate pretty well.

So, if you couldn't' tell I'm finally getting around to a post about my family reunion.

First off, we were a little small in numbers this year and I missed everyone who wasn't there, but I still had a fantastic time!

We headed up on a Wednesday and arrived that evening at a cabin in Island Park, Idaho. After we got there we had dinner and settled in. Then on Thursday we went to Yellowstone!! I have never actually been there before (lame I know, I only live like 4 hours away) so I was pretty excited about that. The scenery was beautiful and it was great to be there. But to make it even better, I was there with my family, AND Abby came up with this hilarious game that was competition between vehicles. Each vehicle had to complete certain missions, and we ended up with some pretty entertaining pictures and videos. We also went swimming in the Firehole River where Clark and Deanna's family have been before. There is a part where the river narrows between some cliffs and the current is fast enough that it forms a kind of chute that you can jump into. It may sound a little dangerous, but you only stay under water for like a second and then it's just a fun ride for a bit down the river. That was a lot of fun.

Friday we went to Big Springs for a bit for some sight seeing, particularly to see some HUGE fish. Most of the day though we just lounged around the cabin and played games. We did however make homemade ice cream, by hand!. That meant taking bags with the ingredients, sticking them in bigger bags full of ice and salt, and shaking for like 10-15 minutes. And believe me, your hands get freezing cold! But the ice cream is delicious, especially with toppings, and therefore worth it. We played games that night as always, and just enjoyed each other's company. Saturday morning we cleaned and packed up and headed out. It may have been a short trip, and we did miss those who couldn't come, but as always it was great to just spend some time relaxing and having fun with my family. Ahh...I love them lots. yay for family! And for family reunions.

Evelyn Ann Crooks

Sorry that I'm a little behind on my posting. I have plenty to write about, but of course that also means I don't have as much time. I'll catch up eventually, that's a promise. But to tide you over, I bring you a post all about the most beautiful baby in the world. Of course, she's my new niece so I'm a little biased.

Sunday morning 2 am I get a text from Sarah: Hey, we're at the hospital, so expect some good news in the morning!

9 am: I find out they might have to do a C section, and I worry all through Relief Society.

However, by the time church is over I know that Evie is here and both she and Sarah are doing fine. Evelyn Ann Crooks was born at 9:41 am on August 9th, 2009. She weighed 6 lbs 10 oz and was 21 inches long.

A little after 1 Heather came and picked me up to go to the hospital, where I got to hold my niece for the first time. She is BEAUTIFUL. And I'm in love with her already. Here are some pictures so you can be too. :)

Haircut

So, my computer is still broken/sick. So Uncle Jon took it home with him to fix it. However, Jacob is awesome and is letting me put my pictures on his computer so that I can put them on facebook and get some one here. YAY!!!

So, this post is just to put up some pictures of my haircut. But stay tuned for an entry about the family reunion.

Here are the pictures for you:

Crazy Day

Okay, so I've had a crazy day, full of YAY times and really sucky times, and I wanted to share it with you all.
One problem, it would be great if I had some pictures, but the worst moment of my day arrived as a virus on my laptop. Which means that I'm trying not to use it and this is being typed up on the family computer. And, I don't' put my pictures on here. So, you'll all have to be patient.

Anyway, let me tell you about the rest of my day.

Jacob came over this morning, yay! And I found one of the most comfortable positions to sit in ever. Yeah, I almost fell asleep. (sorry to be so boring Jacob)

Then, AMANDA came to visit!!!!!! I haven't seen that woman for like two months of plus. I think I was slowly dying a painful death due to withdrawals, but don't worry I'm okay now. Meagan came with her, and it was super fun to see her too.

Those two girls came with me to campus where I donated my hair. As in I cut off 10 INCHES! That's a lot of hair. I love the cut, but I miss my hair. Mixed feelings, but since I've donated before, I know how to deal with them. Don't worry, I'll try to get some pictures up when I have a working laptop.

Then, we went to lunch at the Creamery. There were EFY kids EVERYWHERE! I kind of wanted to beat them all over the head because it meant it took forever to get our food. But, it's okay because I had chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream from the creamery, which totally made it worth it.

After lunch, we stopped by Sarah and Matt's. My sister is so pregnant. She's beautiful. And soon I'll have a niece! Like really soon, as in she is due in about 2.5 weeks but could come earlier than that. It will be awesome. And don't worry, I took Sarah chocolate when I visited. I'm an awesome sister like that.

Then, I had to pack. For my family reunion which I go to on Wednesday! I love reunions. Love them. So I am excited for it. But I usually don't pack so last minute. Like I would have started packing a week ago. It was stressful.

Especially because this is when I discovered that my laptop is sick.
But it wasn't all bad, because Jacob came back over and tried to help me figure out what was wrong with the computer. But then he had to go to work.

So I went swimming with the girls. I love swimming. It's a great thing. And Amanda and I just talked and caught up on life and things and it was super. Kind of like the Krispy Kreme (SP?) donuts that we bought on the way out of Provo because I caught a ride with Amanda and Meagan as far as South Jordan.

And dad picked me up there and now I am home. At our beautiful house in Fruit Heights. And that was my day. It was all crazy up and down emotion wise. But you know what? I'm still happy. Because that's how I want to be. :)

Can you sense that?

You all remember my whole happiness is a choice thing? Well, that's going real well for me right now. Among other things, and I've found myself at a point where I am perfectly happy. And a part of that happiness is a great feeling of peace. Sure, I've still got some confusion in my life, or it wouldn't' be life. But overall, I'm at peace. Which has given me the opportunity to pay attention to a few things. A lot of things actually, the little small things. Which has led to this post at this moment. My apologies to all of you that I may seem to be rambling, I kind of am. But I would like to share with you all something I've thought of lately, something I've paid more attention to than usual:

The senses. Yeah, I'm talking about the five senses. You know them: taste, touch, hearing, smell, sight. I've discovered that when you're really at peace you can pay more attention to the wonders that are the senses, and I've been thoroughly enjoying that experience. Even if your life may not be completely at peace right now, I suggest you take a moment. Find somewhere you can relax and feel some peace just for a little bit. And then just feel. And when I say that I also mean hear and see and taste and smell. Do it! As soon as possible. But as long as you're sitting here wasting time on the internet, let me just share with you some of my thoughts and experiences when it comes to the senses.

Taste: Okay, so all of us go around using this sense all the time. We're usually eating on a pretty regular basis and we don't' really think about taste very much past the point of deciding whether we like something or not. But have you ever really thought about the reasons you love what you do? I will admit that this is one sense I still don't pay a ton of attention to, but I promise that I have been thinking about it a little. For example, I was trying to figure out why I'm addicted to chips and salsa. Well, duh, it's the taste. There is something about the salty crunchiness of my favorite brand of chips that mixes perfectly with the slightly hot yet entirely fresh taste of salsa. MMMMM. so good. So pay a little more attention to what you're eating. It's even more enjoyable when you figure out why you enjoy it in the first place.

Touch: I've been exploring this one quite a bit actually. It's been a lot of fun. One of the best forms of exploration? Walking home barefoot. Yeah, I've been doing that. And it is totally awesome! I know it probably sounds a little eccentric to find so much joy in this, but on a regular walk home from work I can experience about 6 different textures on my feet. And when you're really paying attention to it, it's amazing how big of a difference you can feel. Try it sometime. It will be worth it, if you really want it to be.

Hearing: This one may be even more awesome then walking around barefoot to explore the sense of touch. Do you realize how many different things you can hear in a day? In a second? And the potential for beauty that each of those sounds have. For example, let me tell you what I can hear right now. I can hear myself typing, a sound I really don't think about that often. But now that I've pointed it out to myself, I'm thinking it sounds pretty awesome. I also have some music playing on my computer. Ah, without the sense of hearing, you'd never be able to appreciate music. Life would be so boring! and less meaningful. I also happen to be sitting next to an open window, which means right now I can hear the cars driving on Highway 89 about a block away from my house. Most of you probably think I've gone crazy, but I LOVE the sound of cars on a road, especially a busy road. Which points out one really awesome characteristic of sounds. There are millions, and we all love different sounds because they connect us to different memories. Isn't that great?

Smell: That's also another thing that we get to associate with memories, or with people, or a ton of things. Isn't that great? I've been paying more attention lately to how people smell. Which sounds a little weird, but whatever, I have been. Which means I'm learning to recognize how certain people smell. And if something else reminds me of them because it smells similar, isn't' that a great thing? Oh also, I've been remembering how much I love the smell of grass, and dirt, and all things outside and summer related. Oh, heavenly. And the best thing about smell, it lingers. So you get to hold onto the memories for a just a little longer.

Sight: I think this may be the sense I've been the most lax at increasing my attention to. But, I have noted a few things. Shades. Of colors. That is a great thing. I've learned to pay more attention to them. which helps me appreciate more beauty. And one other thing I've noticed. Patterns etc, in nature. There are tons of them, and they have an amazing natural beauty that we sometimes forget to take note of. The other day I could have stared up through a tree's branches for hours, simply the patter with which the leaves are displayed was super awesome!

Okay, thanks to those of you who suffered through my ramblings about my sense adventures of late. Now go out and have some of your own, and contemplate how amazing God's power must be to give us the gift of all five senses. And realize what evidence that is of how much he loves us. He didn't' have to make this world beautiful for us either, but he did. Now really, go enjoy it!

Just Beeeee yourself

A very wise line from a classic Disney movie, and something I've been thinking about a lot lately. It's kind of been in the back of my mind for a while as an idea for a blog post, but last night I was reminded about the idea by the song Let My Be Myself by 3 Doors Down. Here are the lyrics for you (without the repeated chorus, etc):

I guess I just got lost
Bein' someone else
I tried to kill the pain
Nothin ever helped
I left myself behind
Somewhere along the way
Hopin to come back around
To find myself someday

Lately I'm so tired of waiting for you
To say that it's ok, but tell me
Please, would you one time
Just let me be myself
So I can shine with my own light
Let me be myself
Would you let me be myself

I'll never find my heart
Behind someone else
I'll never see the light of day
Living in this cell
It's time to make my way
Into the world I knew
Take back all of these times
That I gave in to you

This song just resonates with me because over the years I've come to realise that one of the most important things to do in life is to discover who you really are, and learn to love that person. But that's only part of what really makes life happy. Life can't be complete without other people in your life to love and care about, and to have them love and care about you. But you can't build true relationships on a lie. Which is why you have to be able to be yourself.

I've never been the type of person who was extremely popular or had a ton of friends. But I have always had a small group of close friends. And I've been happy with that. I had a conversation with one of my friends a few weeks ago. She told me that sometimes her real friends seem to end up being her fake friends, and the people she think are her fake friends turn out to be real friends. We were talking about why she would feel that way, and she talked about how she often lets the people dictate how she acts around them. We came to the conclusion that that fact was probably a source of the problem.

So then I started thinking about myself, and what I do with my friendships. I don't know when exactly I made the decision, I don't think I'd even realised that I had. But somewhere along the line I decided that I wasn't going to let the opinions of others dictate who I was. And for the most part, I haven't. And the result of that has been that I have some friendships that I know I can trust completely. They accept me for who I am and don't judge me for what I'm not. These are the kind of friends you can always count on. And I've slowly built my life to be full of such relationships, they are the source of joy in my life.

However, I have been unlucky enough to have some friendships that didn't fit that description. If you look back up at the lyrics from Let Me Be Myself, I really can relate to them. I had a close friendship that ended up going downhill, and I'm not even in contact with that friend anymore. I honestly am not sure of her reasons for not wanting my friendship anymore, but I did have to figure out my own reasons for being okay with losing her as a friend. And what it really came down to was that she wouldn't let my be who I really was, without feeling judged. And in the end that is what made the friendship unhealthy for me.

So, in conclusion my word of advice to you is to figure out who you are, love that person, and find friends who will also love that person, no matter what.

Home Sweet Home

So, I spent the last weekend with my family at our new house in Fruit Heights. And, I'm absolutely in love with it already. The house and the yard. They are fantastic. So, I took some pictures to share with you. I only have some of the yard and my room though, because nothing else was unpacked and cleaned enough that I felt pictures would do it justice. But, enjoy.
Looking out on the fountain

Our beautiful Day Lilies

Front Yard

My dad is in love with this globe willow

My family on our awesome deck

I am very excited about this window seat

The closet is awesome too

Eventually I'll get some more pictures of the house on here. As it is you should at least be able to appreciate the amazing yard that we have!

One more for my list, and maybe yours too

I'm addicted to music. I'm not very knowledgeable about it (I'm working on that) but I listen to a lot of it. But even more importantly I think, I actually try to listen to the lyrics of the songs I listen to. Some people don't do that, but I do. And I find a way to make them applicable to my life if that is at all possible. One of my favorite things to do is to find songs that I find inspiring, songs that can give me a lift when I'm having a bad day. I have a playlist on my computer just for these songs, and trust me, it helps me out tons on a bad day. One of my best sources of discovering songs like this is the fact that all I do at work is clean and listen to music. Well, a few weeks ago I discovered another great inspirational song and thought I'd share it and my thoughts about it, with all of you.

The song actually comes from the movie Spirit, the one about the horse. I've never actually seen it, but I have the music because Kiera had it, and I'd heard it was good. This is one of the Bryan Adams songs, and it's called Sound the Bugle. Here are the lyrics for you:

Sound the bugle now play it just for me
As the seasons change remember how I used to be
Now I can't go on I can't even start
I've got nothing left just an empty heart

I'm a soldier wounded so I must give up the fight
There's nothing more for me lead me away...
Or leave me lying here

Sound the bugle now tell them I don't care
There's not a road I know that leads to anywhere
Without a light I fear that I will stumble in the dark
Lay right down decide not to go on

Then from on high somewhere in the distance
There's a voice that calls remember who your are
If you lose yourself your courage soon will follow

So be strong tonight remember who you are
Yeah you're a soldier now fighting in a battle
To be free once more yeah that's worth fighting for

I don't know about the rest of you, but the lyrics to that song, especially the last two stanzas, really hit me quite hard. And when you put them to music, it's amazing, so you should all listen to the song sometime.

As if the song weren't already powerful enough, I started thinking about it from my point of view as a Latter Day Saint. So often I think life gets really hard on us, we make a mistake, or we just get tired and feel like we cant' go on anymore. We get to the point where we don't care about anything, and we don't want to go on anymore. But then, just like the song says, a voice comes. A voice from on high, begging us to remember who we are. Each one of us is a divine son or daughter of God, no heritage could ever be greater or more awe-inspiring. I believe that at the times when you truly understand and believe that heritage, you have the strength to do anything. But if you ever forget that, life gets too hard, and your courage disappears right along with that knowledge. But if you regain that knowledge and get back into the fight, eventually you'll find that everything you've found so hard in life has somehow gotten easier. You find yourself free of your doubts, fears, and discouragements. And then, as long as you keep listening to that voice from on high, you can face anything life throws your way.

That is what this song means for me. You can agree with me or interpret it as you will, but I wanted to give you the chance to pay attention to the lyrics. Hope you enjoyed them.

I've heard it said, that people come into our lives for a reason

"The same God that placed that star in a precise orbit a millennia before it appeared over Bethlehem in celebration of the birth of the Babe has given at least equal attention to placement of each of us in precise human orbits so that we may, if we will, illuminate the landscape of our individual lives, so that our light my not only lead others but warm them as well." - Neal A. Maxwell

I know that I have kind of touched on this topic in a few previous blogs but 1. None of you probably really remember it much and 2. It's been on my mind a lot lately. So, I'm going to write an entry about it anyway.

The quote I started this entry out with was something my Doctrine and Covenants teacher shared with us, and I loved it as soon as I heard it. The concept that the Lord places people in precise orbits meant to bring their lives together is something I've gained my own testimony of in the past few years. It's also something I've been reminded of a lot in the past couple of months because of certain people I have in my life. I'd like to share just a few of the people in my life, whose lights have and are still leading and warming me.

I know, without a shadow of a doubt that God places us in families for a reason. I love my family, I love my parents and my siblings, and I would not be Lydia Ruth Hirschi without the role they have played in my life. My parents are some of my best friends, and growing up I built a relationship with them that a lot of kids aren't lucky enough to have. I tell my parents everything, and because of that they trust me. That is something I truly value. I know that the way my parents raised me helped lead to that trust, that perhaps I wouldn't' have found with someone else. I've been reminded of how much they mean to me in this last week as I helped them pack and move. I was tired and hot and kind of sore, but it was a great feeling to just be working on a project with my family. I know that I was meant to be part of the family I am in, and I am so grateful for that.

Another group of people that Heavenly Father brought into my life were the girls I roomed with during Freshmen year. I know I've mentioned it before, but it still amazes me how girls that have such different personalities could have grown as close as we have. They've helped me through a lot, and I still talk to them about everything. I know that our friendship will last for years to come, probably forever. And I know it all happened because the Lord knew how much I needed them each in my life.

I also feel so blessed to have the girls I roomed with this year in my life. I met Kiera and Amanda in quite interesting ways, and the speed with which we built our friendships could be called miraculous. I'm glad I know that they will always be a par of my life. And it was so great to meet Kinsey and Shannon this year, because they both played a part in who I've grown to be over the last year. I plan on staying in touch with them for a very long time.

Lately I've found another group of close friends from a kind of unexpected source. The people I work with are fantastic! I don't know if I've ever had so much fun with a group of people that I've worked with. We're all pretty close and I talk to them about all the exciting things going on in my life. We enjoy keeping each other updated, and I know I can go them all for advice anytime. I may not see them very often outside of work, but I know that they are a blessing in my life.

Finally, I know the reason I'm in the ward I'm in is so that I could build lasting friendships with people I wouldn't have met any other way. I've got a great circle of friends right now. People I care about, and that I know care about me. We know how to have fun together, and how to help each other through any tough times. I love my life right now because I get to spend time with them on a daily basis.

Something I've mentioned in past entries is that happiness is a choice(it's kind of my current mantra, so deal with me mentioning it a lot). I believe that this plays a role even when it comes to the people we have in our life. The Lord may place our orbits in such a way that they collide, but we have to choose to let others into our lives, and into our hearts. And then we also have to choose to acknowledge the Lord's hand in the friendships and relationships we build.

So next time you meet someone new, consider what the Lord could have in store for that meeting. Don't miss out on the chance to gain a needed friend, or perhaps even more importantly to be that needed friend for someone else. And if life is taking a different direction then you may have expected, realize that the Lord just needs to you be in someone's orbit for a while. It may be for them, but may just as well be for you. And as long as you let the Lord direct your life, you can give and receive the light and warmth you need to be happy in this life.

What I learned during Spring Term

Okay, so some of these may have been mentioned in previous entries, but most haven't, so you'll be okay.

1. All stories are invasion stories, even if they don't seem like it.

2. I can tell you the sentence pattern of any clause or sentence, and then precede to diagram it for you.

3. I know why everybody loves Bro. Bott. He really IS that good.

4. Happiness is a choice.

5. If you spend too much time with someone, they will eventually corrupt you with part of their personality....but there is a whole story behind that one I won't share. Don't worry, its not overly interesting.

6. I can say no to random proposals...6 times in a couple weeks. (Don't worry, they were all jokes)

7. Running through sprinklers at 1 A.M. with your coworkers can be a lot of fun.

8. Spring Term rocks because you get to know more people better.

9. It's okay for me to change my mind, and make random decisions. They just have to be the right ones.

10. Happiness really IS a choice. (I still need to work on that one)

11. Mirror messages are a great mode of communication, but they don't' make up for actually seeing your roommate.

12. I CAN survive college without all of my girls, but it gets really hard sometimes.

13. Don't take 9am classes when you work until 1am. At least not if you need plenty of sleep like I do.

14. You can live off of granola bars and fruit snacks for lunch.

15. You can learn a lot in two months.

That's just a few. I'm really grateful for this opportunity I've had to be where I am in my life right now and to learn these things and many more. I'm looking forward to learning more during summer term, even if it isn't about why you really should say "lie out" instead of "lay out".

Last Day at home

So, I went home for Father's day today. I love my dad. See the previous post. But anyway, my family is moving this week, and I probably wont' be able to make it up to help them because of work and transportation etc. That means that I probably was in our house for the last time ever today. It was home to me for 8 years plus, and since I tend to get a little attached it was a little hard. Not as bad as it could have been, but I still felt pretty sentimental. Enough to take some pictures. My family made fun of me, but I don't care. I want to remember that house, I made a lot of memories there. But my whole family is excited for a new start and a great adventure, it will be awesome. And part of growing up is moving on, so I'm okay with this.

I'm grateful for the chance

to honor and thank my Dad this Father's day. I've always kind of been "Mommy's little girl" which is kind of fitting since I'm the youngest. But that doesn't mean I love my Daddy any less, and he means so much to me. I'm pretty sure he knows that, but just as a reminder to him and everyone else I'm writing this entry to talk about the few things I love most about my Dad.

He taught me to work hard. I've watched him do so much over the years to build a good life for my family. He isn't' afraid to dig in and get his hands dirty if there is something that needs to be done. He can take apart and put back together a whole lot of things, and if anything breaks, Dad can most likely fix it.

That fixing thing extends to more than just objects. I talk to my mom way more than my Dad, but when things are really crazy and I don't know how to handle them, I know I can always turn to him. Somehow he always knows the perfect thing to say to make everything better, or to at least get me heading in the right direction.

Dad knows how to be serious when I need that, but he also knows how to have fun. He is a tease, and he can always make me happier. He is the reason I see teasing as a sign of love and caring, because that is why he did it. I've made some great memories of just goofing around with him when that was exactly what we needed.

I've always known that my Daddy believed in me. He taught me that as long as you give it 100% of your effort you've done the best you can, and you can be proud. He has supported me through all of my efforts for twenty years now, and never once have I doubted that he was there for me.

He hasn't just led and taught my family by word, but also by example. And he has been a great teacher for me of how to live a good life that you can be proud of.

Those are just a few of the reasons I love my Daddy. I am so blessed to be his daughter. I am so thankful for his love, support, and trust over the years. I look forward to many years of the same, and hope he knows just how much he means to me.

Pretty pretty please...with a cherry on top

I know some of you may be getting tired of this request, but I am asking again anyway. There are a whole bunch of new poems on my writing blog from my creative writing class this last term that I would really love to have people read. I would love even more to have some comments, I don't care if you know what you're talking about or not. Or if you totally love them or absolutely hate them. I just want some opinions, I'm trying to improve myself as a writer and feedback helps. So, in case you don't' know it yet, my writing blog is http://lydiasliterature.blogspot.com/
and I would love you forever and ever if you could take a look at some of my stuff. It doesn't' have to be the newer stuff either. And comments are proof that you cared enough to do this for me. (yes I'm trying to guilt you into it, but I'm admitting it so its not that bad and you should do it anyway) Thanks in advance to anyone who is so kind as to help me out.

You all need to see this

Calvin who I work with told me I needed to watch this, so I came home last night and did just that. You all need to see it too. So here is a link for you. http://www.hulu.com/watch/67437/saturday-night-live-high-school-musical-4

if it doesn't work just go to hulu and search for high school musical 4 SNL. It is totally worth your time. Enjoy. :)

Just keep swimming, swimming, swimmng

The pool is open again. FINALLY. I have been going crazy waiting for this because I love swimming. I think sometimes that surprises people, you know, that I'm a swimmer. But it's true. Sometimes I really miss the good old days on swim team when I had a reason to swim laps. I know I didn't' feel that way about it then, but I do now.
The pool is TINY now. And, I have to complain about that. The whole five feet thing I can deal with, because you can do flip turns at three feet, but I think I get about 4 butterfly strokes in before hitting the other side. Yeah, that isn't really the best way to get back into swimming. Which I really want to do. But I realised something today; it has been way too long since I've done some good swimming. My fly stroke felt so slow, and even my freestyle was lacking. Good thing I finally have a pool, just when I'll be getting some free time.
Everyone is all excited about the larger hot tub. And, I appreciate it, I really do. I just wish I could have it and a longer pool. But, I think I'll make do with what we have, since I'm pretty sure I'll have to pay to use the pool on campus.

So, besides my random ramblings about the pool and wanting it to be bigger because I want to swim and not be so out of shape I should tell you about my awesome night. None of it was planned before I did it, but I had so much fun.
I went swimming. And then Chelsea decided to curl my hair. And then we decided to go to the stake BBQ and dance. Where it rained, and we danced in the rain. It was beautiful. And then we came back and I swam again. And then I watched Hairspray with some totally awesome people in my ward.

Which reminds me of something else. I really like Spring term. Why? because all these great people from my ward are still here. And before we knew each other and sure we were friends. But now I'm getting to know them better and hanging out with them. And it is fantastic because they are stupendous people.