Winter 2012

Winter semester has a lot in store for me, and well, I couldn't be more excited and nervous to see what it will bring.

A lot of praying will be done to help decisions

A 4-day-a-week German class will be taken. We will see if I still have it in me...

A middle eastern class will be taken as well. The book required is entitled understanding Arabs.

An apartment with 6 girls. Thank heavens for 2 bathrooms.

I will be freezing.

No Orchestra or violin. Poor Victor will be neglected more than he ought to be I fear.

A visual media class.

I'm ready to get this show on the road. I'm not packed, I don't want to part with those here that I love, but, I'm ready for school again.

Happy New Year Everyone

Freshman 15?

Freshman 15, a definite no.

Running daily (which by the way is an amazing stress reliever), cycling with the girls upon request, and nearly starving my last couple weeks of the semester, my freshman 15 is nowhere to be found.

My plumbers crack sure is though. Due to all of my activity and lack of eating, none of my jeans fit anymore. It's rather annoying. I've always hated belts, so when the time came that a belt would come in handy, they were nowhere to be found. Awesome right? So for the past few weeks I've been walking around pulling up pants.

Thanks to my wonderful parents who know that they shouldn't have done it, they went out and bought me a couple pairs of jeans. One fits, and the other, big surprise, doesn't fit. So, back to the mall we go to get pants that actually stay up. I'm more excited than I probably should be.

By the way, I'm writing to you via my new laptop. I'm a big fan.

I hope you all had a Christmas full of family, fun, food, Christ, and wonder. I know I did. Aren't Sunday Christmas's the best ones?

Merry Freaking Christmas

At an attempt to wear out my mind, so that sleep might come easier to me on this exciting night, (yes I do still wait up and listen for sleigh bells) I mustered up a whole lot of courage, and checked my final grades from this last semester. I would like you all to know,

I PASSED MY MATH CLASS

No, I didn't think I would, I was actually 100% sure that I had failed my class. But, for some reason, maybe God softened the heart of my not-so-sympathetic math teacher, I passed.

Not only did I pass math, but all my other classes as well. "whew"

At this early hour of the morning, I would be extremely content with receiving nothing else, and doing nothing else. This was a big enough present for me.

Ah, the relief.

Merry Christmas to all of you. I hope your holiday is as wonderful and joyous and mine is already turning out to be.

Be The First

Nobody knows this. I haven't even told my family.

But I might be spending the Spring and Summer in Rexburg working.

Why? That'll come later, I think.

Am I positive? Definitely not.

Oh the joy of figuring out your own life.

The Liberal Space Case

Yesterday, as an assignment for my history/government class, we were to take a lengthy online quiz regarding our thoughts on the federal government. I answered honestly, and how I felt the government should be run.

What were my results?

Liberal.

Wait. What?

I didn't understand it either. But, apparently, I'm liberal.

Call me up sometime to talk politics, maybe you will understand better. Heck, maybe I will understand better.

This week I've lost my student I.D. twice, $20, and my headphones.

Twice happens when you lose the first one, pay $10 to get a new one, and then lose that one. Don't worry kids, I found it, but boy you should have seen the position my body was in when fishing it from inside the couch.

I should be posting on my current events blog for my writing class, seeing as 10 posts are due tomorrow and I'm on 4...

7 days and I'll be back in Orem for more than 3 days. Exciting isn't it? I think so. Although, I might be coming home in a body bag after all these projects, papers, and finals.

The Scare

Today, in the school newspaper, an article was released that prohibited skinny jeans. Mostly in the testing center, where, unless you change, aren't allowed to take your tests.

Not only did they ban skinny jeans, but they backed it up saying that it was CES dress standards... Wrong.

If it was, the BYU Provo, and BYU Hawaii would have those same rules. They don't.

This has only been an issue for a few hours, and the school just recently released a statement saying that what was printed in the newspaper was wrong.

Confused? Yeah, so is everyone else.

I find this rather hilarious. This morning I was practically fuming. No skinny jeans? Good grief.

Now, I'm laughing and wondering what went on down at the Paper...

Silly college kids.

On This Blistery Day-Too Bad It's Not Wednesday

Stepping outside, taking a sniffle and having your snot freeze is... well.... cold.

Last night it was a whopping -10. This morning, at 10 a.m. it's -3.

Welcome to winter everyone.

So, remember in high school, and even jr. high, when sitting on the floor in the hallways, was not only a little strange, but incredibly dangerous? Now that college is upon us, sitting in the hallway is not only normal, but exciting if you can find an open spot near an outlet.

Nothing brightens a day more than walking into your writing class with your professor playing Rhapsody in Blue on the piano. Then, as he reaches his arms in the air as an expression of success, his sweater rips near the armpit. Laughing he says, "and that's why I'm a writer, and not a musician"

Getting out of class early, well, I'm definitely a fan.

Christmas concerts are perhaps one of the greatest things about Christmas time. Brian Stokes Mitchell has an amazing voice, that, if I'm in the shower, I can copy exactly. I adore the Nutcracker Suite. And getting to watch your best friend as she plays her Bass makes it all that much better. Not to mention the face she makes when really concentrating. Katy, you're fantastic.

A week and a half left. I won't be sleeping, and the library will be my new home. But, I can definitely make it work.

A perk to sitting in the hallway is eavesdropping. I'm pretty sure the two men conversing in front of me are Seniors. Discussing the competition that their classes now entail. They're also discussing balding.

I hope your Monday is as eventful as mine has been, and it's not even Noon.

December

I feel as if the month of December deserves a special shout out. As usual, this month brings a lot of excitement.

I find it hard to be sad in December. The semester ends, we celebrate Christmas, the entire Christmas season is at it's peak, I can listen to Christmas music without being scorned, the amazing food and desserts, the 5 lbs. of weight we all gain and are always unsuccessful at hiding, all the perfect new snow that falls, (not the sleety January kind, or the frozen February kind, the new, soft, December kind), the end of the year reminiscing, and new year goals, warm sweaters, scarves, lights, boots, mittens, sledding and again, Christmas music.

All in all, December is a nearly perfect month. Everyone seems to be in a better mood, and wanting to spend more time with those around them.

So let's all celebrate, for now begins the best month of the year.

Augustana

This June I was incredibly distraught when my favorite band toured to Salt Lake City the one and only week I went to New York...
When I heard this news I was completely destroyed... I truly thought my life was over. Then I saw something. That, even in the height of a serious migraine, made me jump and scream.

THEY'RE COMING TO SALT LAKE CITY.

I saw and immediately thought, dang... It won't be until Summer, I will have to wait for forever to actually see them. But then I saw the date

JANUARY 24

Tears almost fell everyone. This is amazing. I'm speechless.

So. If any of you are trying to win my love, and want to spend a good time with me, it would be the best Christmas present I could ever get. If not, I would very much like a buddy to go with me when I purchase the tickets.

The End

48 Hours

Pulling into my parking lot after my short trip to Utah, I realized that in less than 48 hours I would be returning home again. The only real reason I came back up was for a mandatory orchestra rehearsal, an over-the-phone ecclesiastical endorsement, and to pick up stray college students to take home with me.

Less than 48 hours

Don't get me wrong, I am really beginning to like it here. But, I need a break. I want to hear about Annie's missionary. Sharissa's insane new life. I'm ready to be home for a while.

It's warmer in Utah, I barely needed a jacket. It's freezing here, I've slipped twice on the snow and it's only 11:00 a.m. This snow is fantastic, but, for once in my life I'm hoping it slows down. I want to make it to Utah safely.

I'm more than excited for my classes next semester. No math or science. (Provided I miraculously pass my current math class...) I get a much missed English class, a world religions class, a middle eastern class, and a couple anticipated communication classes. It's going to be a great semester. Apart from some 7:45 classes. I don't know why I do this to myself.

48 hours guys. Less than 48 hours and I'll be home. To eat as much food as possible, and to decorate the house in Christmas attire. Not to mention my tree; all the lights I get to put up on my tree.

Now, if only I could get myself to do some homework....

It's More of a Physical Thing

Ask me to run 4 marathons in a row, and I'll figure out a way to do it, and I won't give up. Ask me to brave a winter in the Alaskan wilderness, and I'll do it. Want me to climb Mt. Everest? I'll do it.

Covered in cuts and bruises, I'll get up and keep going. I don't quit.

Emotionally? I crawl inside myself, dig a hole, and never come out. I give up and run away. I'm an emotional baby, and it's a problem.

The Almost Home Stretch

With the days dwindling until I can leave for Thanksgiving break, I am starting to develop lazy habits. It's a very, very bad thing.

With projects being due left and right, last minute tests, unhealthily early classes, and snobby teachers, my world is beginning to crumble.

A part of me knows I will get it all done, and once I do, the satisfaction will be amazing. But, until then, I'm ready to scream.

So, to help myself finish out this week, I created a short list of things. No organization, just things.

-Washing your hair twice in an 8 hour period is a lot more soothing than one would think.

-I found out I had an option for my Thursday to be completely perfect, but, I ruined it.

-I'm really hoping friendship bonds are as strong as I think they can be.

-Knowing that my big sister is in Orem, makes the desire to go back that much worse.

-Katherine Hepburn is phenomenal. Even when she's old, wrinkly, and the movie has no intrigue; she breathtaking.

-Perhaps study abroad to England, and the British Isles would do me some good.

-Teachers want us to be proactive. Ok, I can do that. But you teachers have to help. I can't do this all on my own. Your laziness is killing me.

-God puts people in our lives for a reason. No matter what the reason is, they're there because he knew you needed them.

-Don't EVER bend your arm while giving plasma. The girl next to me did, and blood was everywhere. It was awful.

-Selling your body for money, it's not as appealing as it sounds.

-I'm ready for a new semester.

-Annie's missionary comes in tonight. She's waited 2 years. This girl is stronger than most of us could ever be. You deserve the best Annie.

-It's probably not healthy when certain songs or sentences activate crying.

-Working at my Orem Old Navy for the weekend of Black Friday? So excited, yet, so... not.

-Snow is God's message to us saying, I know your life is awful right now, but, it'll be okay.

-Turning our couches into one big bed was probably the best idea we've ever had.

The End.

I'm going to go wash my hair again.

Go Slowly

Radiohead

It's time to re-think where this all is going, what I really truly want to do with my life. It's time to sit back, look at options, perhaps pan out a few scenarios, and definitely make some pro-con lists. I'm almost done with my first semester of college. And, aside from the occasional break downs, I think I handled pretty well. I know for a fact I'm switching from Public Relations to Journalism and broadcasting. I was already leaning in this direction, when my journalism teacher read my rough draft, then said, "What's your emphasis?" "PR" "That's a waste of talent. Switch to Journalism as soon as you can, this story is absolutely amazing."

Well kids, there you have it. I'm slowing everything down, really looking at where I want my life to go, and how I can get to where I want to be.

Virtual!

"What?? I get my own virtual rock collection!? Look. You click on a rock, it tells you all about it, and then you add it to your collection! Hey, now it's full. Don't need any more rocks in my collection!"

Oh what the lack of sleep does to us....

"Wow, you're off your rocker today..."

Ever since the big hit to the head, my mind hasn't quite been the same. I seem to be compensating pain with hilarity and insanity. I'm wired. All the time. To my roommates and friends it's hilarious. To me it means not quite remembering the entirety of my days, and serious pains when I stand up at any time.

But, I'm much more outspoken and willing to participate in all of my classes now, so perhaps that smack to the concrete was a good thing. Hit some loose screws and put them where they belong. That kind of thing.

We're growing up.... Annie got a big girl job in a doctor's office. I couldn't be more excited for her.

We have exams and take classes that will determine the path of our future.

We take responsibility for our own well being.

We do it all without the constant supervision of our parents.

Some of us even have marriage on the mind....

Life is coming fast guys. Too fast.

I learned today, that if you think a mens locker room smells funky? Enter a mens dorm? I was tasting the stench it was so strong... mmm yum. I now understand why the boys come over here so much.

Old Navy. It's the same thing no matter what store you go to, but the people are very, very different.

Sleep deprivation. Get used to it.

6 classes, 16 credits. Winter semester, here I come.

Girl that I can see through your window and mine, acting like your prince has just arrived and is now dancing with him? My hat's off to you. I definitely hope you find him soon.

Yay for getting pulled over and smooth talking out of it. No, it didn't happen to me, but I'm jealous of his persuasion skills. But then again, it's probably how he's gotten me to continue dating him.

The End

Discovered from many months ago

Yeah, I worry too

Presto

Bach, your unaccompanied Sonatas will be the death of me.

What Did You Learn at School Today?

Well Mom, yesterday I learned that giving plasma, then running 4 miles 2 short hours later is an extremely bad idea.

That's all.

Lucky

Britney Spears

I was told today that I am too optimistic, I see too much of the good in people, and I'm too trusting. That I need to be more of a realist. He told me if I trusted too much, I would end up getting seriously hurt.

This boy opened my eyes.

Perhaps I am an optimistic person, but lately, I've been nothing but grouchy and pessimistic. Starting to really regret my decision of coming up here... Feeling picked on, singled out, and almost totally alone.

But this past weekend and the conversation from science boy helped me to see that all of this negativity I had been feeling towards Rexburg, was because I wanted to feel negative about it all.

So, with mid-terms over, and the end of semester in sight, along with the Christmas season, I'm giving this freezing campus another look. I'm lucky to have the friends that I have, to be taking the classes I am, to be receiving the grades that I have been. I came up here with a not so good attitude because something that means an awful lot to me resides 4 hours from this little college town, but now that I've seen that a bad attitude gets you absolutely nowhere, I'm changing the way I see my life up here.

Things are going to get a lot better from here out. No matter how many crazy people tell me I'm breaking the honor code.

(going back to the title, being a 90's child was fantastic wasn't it?)

84057

Can't wait to be in my home town for the weekend.

Sending a best friend off on his mission is a perfect excuse to get away.

Those I'm traveling with have all decided it's our reward for getting through midterms.

Can't wait to see those I'm closest to, those that I miss every day.

It'll be great.

Ma'am!!

I wish all of these stories weren't true. I wish I was making these up. But, sadly they are true. I must have some sort of aura around me that says "please criticize my every move." Ugh.

So, walking in to the building of the track and basketball courts, there was a man in a red shirt. He, or someone like him, is usually perusing the building at this time of night to survey the condition of the building. I think. They're always walking around with a clip board and checking things off. So, we will go with that. As I walk past this man he looks me up and down, stares for a minute, and then proceeds to follow me on to the track. He stood off to the side, watching me as I started to run. About a mile or so into it, he starts practically screaming at me so that he might get my attention. Once he pulls me off the track he says "you aren't following the dress code." "Um, yes I am, I'm wearing the school approved gym clothes..." "No, when you came into the building you were wearing shorts. You can't wear shorts across campus, it's against the honor code." "Oh. Wait, do you have the power to enforce the honor code?" This is when he tried to sound official. "Well, I'm not sure my job enables me that kind of power, but I just feel like you should be following the dress code." I rolled my eyes and continued running. More than half the people coming and going every night are wearing shorts. And they don't bring pants to cover up... It's frustrating. I really must have 'please get after me' stamped across my forehead.

On the plus side, sweet boys leave Swedish Fish on my doorstep. They're the best.

Cheese

I don't know if any of you have noticed, but my blog lacks photographs.

Why you may ask?

1. My camera is sititng in the front console of my car, and has been for many months.

2. Who even remembers to pull it out during a 'kodak moment' anyways?

3. I'm the furthest thing from photogenic, and I always have been. You see, I have a lazy eye-lid. Not a lazy eye, but a lazy eye-lid. It just doesn't open as much as the other one. In person, it's not all that noticeable. But in pictures, my face looks like that of a stoners. It's super sexy.

So, I apologize to all of you that my blog isn't as appealing to the eye as others, but in truth? It's not all that big of a deal to me. So, at that, enjoy my words.

I think I have a knack for meeting all of the self righteous students up at this here university.

middle of orchestra-my D string slipped so I am quietly trying to tune it. "Um, excuse me? I'm trying to listen" "Um, excuse me? I'm trying to tune" "We did that at the beginning of class, so what are you doing it now for?" "It slipped." "Well, you should work on your tuning skills" "Well, you should work on your people skills." I don't think she likes me much anymore.

"Hey I saw you at McDonalds on Saturday. Who was that guy you were with?" "My boyfriend." "Oh, so that's the guy you're going to prematurely ruin your life with?" Some statements are better left ignored....

Coming from Book Of Mormon boy who asks impossible questions about dragons-

"What's the heart on your arm for?"

"My boyfriend drew it on me last weekend, we were just messing around."

"Oh, did he screw up or are you too good for that?"-this statement comes from a previous conversation I had with him. If I didn't tell you, text me and I'll fill you in.

"Um, it's none of your business what he does with his life, or even what I do with mine. Stop."

The mormons up here are a whole different breed.

A New Sort of Creep

On my way to do laundry this fine afternoon, running down the stairs, I made an extremely fascinating discovery.

I was wearing socks, and realized about half-way down the stairs, that they were heated. What? Yes, my staircase is heated. What can yours do?

I must have looked rather strange to the group of boys playing soccer in my courtyard, because after my discovery, I proceeded to bend down and feel up each step...

It's cool. I'm a fan

Fall Consistency

It's Fall Break? Nah, are you sure? Oh yeah, LDS schools don't get Fall Break. It's awesome.

While most are having a restful weekend, away from classes, post-mid-terms, I get to study my brains out until there's nothing up there but equations and writing rules.

You all get to post fun and exciting Facebook statuses about how thankful you are for the break, how wonderful your weekend will be... The green monster on my back is now the size of my room.

Enjoy your relaxation, your free time, your glimpse at Christmas break. When you're sitting in your room, with nothing to do at all, and loving every minute of it, think of your dear friend Brenna. Slaving away preparing for mid-terms and writing a talk for Sacrament meeting.

Care packages are more than welcome.

Oh Boy...

Annie tagged me, and out of my love for her, I suppose I will join in on this insanity.

Here are 7 random things about me.

1.

I have a strong distaste for those who spell incorrectly. We all passed 1st grade, yes?

2.

I have an unhealthy addiction for running and Dr. Pepper. Yes, I am aware they don't mix well.

3.

The children's show Arthur will always hold a special place in my heart.

4.

I bite my nails. It's an awfully disgusting habit.

5.

I love playing my violin, but do not like playing in front of others.

6.

I'm extremely obsessed with Christmas. I dare you to say you like it more than me.

7.

I would read all day, every day if someone would let me. I'm partial to Gothic novels.

Katy, Sharissa, and Becca, it's your turn

Dragons and Immanuel

Tests in my Book of Mormon class shouldn't really be considered tests. It's each student coming up with 5 questions, and then passing their questions to another student to answer. Knowing this, I would think each student would come up with easy questions, in hopes that they receive easy questions. At least, that's what I did.

And then I got my set of questions.

I love reading my scriptures, and at times I like to think myself somewhat knowledgeable in the gospel. But RM? I don't understand Isaiah on that deep of a level like you do. I think I started stressing more when I saw these questions than when I sat down for my math exam.

Thank goodness I was sandwiched between to different RM's that could guide me in the right direction. However, even they didn't know the answer to one of the questions.

So, overly knowledgeable RM, I hope the answer, "Because God will eventually release all the dragons from their underwater imprisonment in the new Millennium" was a sufficient answer for you.

Awkward

Is the time you're standing on one side of the gate, the boy on the other, while the security man locks it for curfew... (You can open it from the inside, don't worry kids, we could still say our goodbyes)

I live in a college apartment complex. With nothing but young adults in sight. So screams, thumps and yelling are very common at late hours. What's strange is when you hear a toddler crying in the middle of the night. It's an almost Twilight Zone experience. (RA lives directly below me, in case you were wondering)

A blonde boy gave me 'the nod' in my writing class today. All he accomplished was arousing a firey passion to deck him, seeing as he called me a butterface the previous class. You're a winner.

My mother gave me the great news of fmily newsletters this morning. Apparently, since I'm an independent now, I must write my own entry... I hope the whole extended family is ready to hear my sadistic views...

I put the extra mattress below my bed so that when I fall out of my bed I hit the soft mattress, thus reducing the risk of breaking something or getting concussed. My subconscious has a marvelous sense of humor; I fell off the end of the bed this morning rather than the side. Hooray for bruises and a headache.

81% on my article for my journalism class. Came in second place behind a kid with 85%. Mr. Professor doesn't believe in A papers, says those grades go to the professionals, which we clearly are not. I feel accomplished.

Pots do a very good job at disappearing in 252. There's only so many cupboards, and only so many places they could be... I am now a firm believer in pot elves.

This laptop is a piece. I'm in fear of closing it and the screen breaking. I need a new one.

"That shirt really brings out the color in your eyes" "Thanks" "Did you know you have very green eyes?" "What?? Green?? Really? I always thought they were brown!" He didn't think I was funny... But I sure did.

Maybe one day I'll go back to writing deep thought paragraphs, insightful essays and heartfelt words. But for now we will stick with snippets. After all, journalism is all about concise and to the point right?

Droid

People tease me every now and then, about how I can't go anywhere with my phone.

And yes, I'm strange that I have an emotional attachment to it, but I realized this afternoon, while sitting bored in science, that it's not the phone I'm attached to, it's the people I can talk to because of my phone that I'm attached to.

It's the sweet texts and regular calls from the boy.

The late night, I need your help and miss you, conversations with Cris.

The funny snippets of my life that I can tell my mom no matter what time it is.

The questions about anything and everything I ask my dad, that he always seems to know the answer to.

The weekly emails from Amber I can read during math class.

As previously mentioned, but in need of re-statement, the sweet texts and regular calls from the boy.

Yeah, I have my phone within 2 feet of me almost always, but I can't keep everyone in my life within 2 feet. So my phone will just have to suffice

In 252

Where we face paint giant butterflies onto boys, or carve Jack into a pumpkin then stick him in our freezer so as to scare us every morning and preserve his health until the season of scaring peaks.

We bake 7 loves of pumpkin bread, then discuss the plans for banana bread. Where we all receive callings and get set apart together.

Where I put the spare mattress near my bed so that the bruising will slow down when I fall out of bed. Where we wake up for church 15 minutes before we need to leave, only because I fell off my bed and hit every bar on the way down, waking us all up.

Where boys just walk in, no knocking required, and our apple juice begins to disappear at a rather rapid pace.

Where the dishes only sometimes get done.

Where we listen to Jazz and EFY music? Then shortly after we listen to Jay-z and Fall Out Boy

Our overuse of Pam ends up on the floor, making it great for sliding.

Where laughing fits are more than common.

And on occasion, we reach into the oven to pull out the bread, without thinking, and burn our entire hand. On occasion.

Rain is a Good Thing

There's a small sink hole near the science building(offtrack-all the lovely tall boys hide out in said science building. But, if I were a tall good looking rm, I would hide out too with all these girls on the prowl.) During a 20 minute downpour, this sink hole fills rapidly with water, making an ideal puddle.

No, I wasn't wearing rain boots, and yes it was freezing. But I jumped rather exuberantly into this puddle. Completely soaking a girl passing by. The look she gave me? Well, if looks could kill....

A young man about 10 steps behind her then congratulated me, and told me I was adorable for not having lost my inner child. My jeans were soaked up to my knees, and boy was it worth it.

This rain is spectacular. A slight constant drizzle mixed with random downpours is just what we all needed. It's finally time for hoodies, much too big jackets that go past even your behind, and an excuse to have hot chocolate with every meal.

Not to mention it's a sign that snow, Christmas, and the end of semester are rapidly approaching.

A New Kind of Motivation

Being sick in college is much different than being sick at home.

At home my parents made me stay home, I would lie around all day, and accomplished next to nothing.

At school I still wake up for a 7 a.m. class, do my homework, clean the kitchen, attend all meetings and groups, it's like, well it's like I'm not even sick.

I'm kind of a fan.

Now if only I could keep down my breakfast.....

More Bits and Tips from 252

"What is unemployment? People unemployed" yeah, that was really smart of you teacher. If your voice wasn't so funny to listen to I would have tuned you out half an hour ago.

"You can't chew gum on the track" "You can't wear shorts like that in this building, let alone on this campus." "Well... ugh!...." yes, please just walk away.

"Can I run with you and we can keep each other on a steady pace?" "Yeah that's fine" Code for: Yes please mister. You're extremely good looking. Not to mention you're in good enough shape to keep up a semi-conversation while running.

Pass notes in college. It's completely acceptable. Especially when he smells like Usher.

"The Provo Tabernacle is being built into a temple! I'm getting married there" "Me too!" (followed by a rather seductive wink.) Boys from Seattle make great companions.

Play Rear Window sometime. It's entertaining, and tells you a lot about the girls across your courtyard. Our window was well placed.

Chocolate cake and raspberry cake mixes go great together.

Don't burn popcorn to the point of smoke. Your apartment and hair will smell delectable for a few days.

Make a friend majoring in Poly-Sci. They're great conversation artists.

Voices and fluctuations make or break a class.

"I don't get the excitement behind it"

Writing for Media. Naturally we discussed conference..... Only at BYU-I

Teach brought up the Provo Tabernacle becoming the second Provo Temple.

Then the lovely girl from California says, "I don't get the excitement behind this becoming a temple. I mean, Provo already has a temple. Why don't they just turn the land into student housing or something?"

Are you kidding me? My hand shot up so fast I almost dislocated my shoulder.

I then proceeded to tell her why it meant so much to me, and to everyone down there. It's a big deal, and exciting deal as well. My professor let me show her the drawing of what the temple will look like. "But, it's not even white, it barely looks like a temple."

She's an absolute winner.

Merry Swiftmas

Evan Taubenfeld.

So, it's October. The only thing that excites me from this realization, is that now we are in double digit months. And that much closer to December.

It's noticeably colder here in Rexburg than it is down in Orem. It gets me excited for snow.

I listen to Christmas music while studying for a math exam.

I'm ready for December. I'm getting antsy, and the countdown will start very soon.

(Don't get me wrong, I thoroughly enjoy scary movies, haunted houses, etc. But when I go to bed after participating in said activities, I often climb in bed with a sibling or fall asleep listening to Sinatra sing Silent Night)

The Calm Before the Storm

"It's General Conference weekend, everyone relax, take it easy, and be filled by the spirit. Oh yeah, did I mention Satan overcame me and I'm assigning you the most crap you will get next to mid-terms and finals??"

Classes have been chill, getting out early, being canceled, doing nothing but review; it's been rather enjoyable. However, this calm trickery the professors seem to love only masks the hell they have ensued upon us as their students.

• Read and grade 3 of your classmates 3 page papers.
• Complete a massive individual math project
• Study for your math exam
• Prep for wednesdays math class
• study for your science exam
• complete your weekly 'what I learned' entry for science
• read your book of mormon
• enter the inspirations you had while reading into your class journal
• create a portfolio for your Communication major
• Create a "what's news" blog. Make entries over the weekend
• Complete a news article with the facts of a hurricane I gave you
• Visit a Rexburg city meeting before Wednesday and take notes so that you may later write an article
• Practice your violin until you feel accomplished or your fingers fall off. Whichever comes first
• Obtain a letter of recommendation

And of course, they give all this to me the one weekend I decide to visit home. Lovely. Maybe going to Utah wasn't such a good idea in the first place...

Dearest

Dearest roommate,

I apologize. I'm not quite sure what I did to push you that far, but I'm sorry. I personally thought our situation was getting better. Yes, we are completely different;in every possible way our personalities are polar opposites. But, I thought we could try to make it work.

I'm sorry you feel like you must move. I hope you enjoy your new room and ward!

I suppose God answers prayers in ways we never expect....

"How Many Hours?"

Currently, I'm enrolled in the University Orchestra, and private violin lessons. Together, these classes are worth 2 credits. And require a total of 9 hours a week outside of class. That's right. 9. No doubling up the material you practice, or counting orchestra for practice time for the lessons. It's all separate.

I'm a communications major. What in the world was I thinking?

Stumbled upon a football practice this afternoon (on the way to, shocker, the music building) oh how I miss the yell of a coach and the sound of a whistle. Shouldn't have slept through the softball tryouts.

I'm at the 'crossroads' supposedly studying, and a large student tour group came through. They're all definitely younger than 18. Each passing student makes me more and more grateful that I'm 19.

This laptop is a piece. I need a new one.

Sat next to a poly sci major during a heated global warming discussion during science today. I found it extremely amusing, and he found me just as amusing. We were quite the pair. The poor professor was stumped more than once. This boy stole my phone to enter his number, when I realized how massive his hands were. He then says, "Well, I should hope so, I'm 6'5". Why I hadn't noticed this boy I will never know. But we will be friends in the future.

Less than 24 hours until I'm back in O-town. I can't wait, Rexburg is starting to affect me...

Did I mention that I missed my once a week lecture class? Awesome... I definitely need to start going to bed earlier.

Ghost

Parachute.

Dear cute boy and girl outside my apartment discussing feelings and relationship problems.

My window is wide open, and I can hear every word you're saying. You're adorably awkward, and you truly made my night.

Perfect

Simple Plan.

When the boy comes up, goes to church, and washes dishes, things become perfect.

When Stephanie cooks for 10, and won't let me help, just so I can spend time with him, things become perfect.

When you spend all weekend with some new friends that you're going to love all your life, things become perfect.

When you change rooms for next semester to be closer to friends, things become perfect.

When you can fall asleep completely at peace, things become perfect.

When things finally start to look up, and you start to think this school might be o.k. things become perfect

Welcome To My Life

Simple Plan.

"No chewing gum on the track, you're going to have to spit it out or leave." Are you kidding me? I'm not going to spit it out and rub it in to the precious track...

"Oh, you're from Orem? Do you know so and so? They graduated in 08" Definitely not. There's millions of people in Orem, and the chances of me knowing someone that graduated 3 years before me are extremely slim. But you're gorgeous, so I'm just going to smile and go along with whatever you say.

"I've never made it home on time, I've jumped the wall every night since we've been here."

At 11:00, "I haven't seen her since 3... Should we be worried?" "Yeah, should we call her?" "Nobody has her number" Ha, some roommates we are.

After doing a funny body roll, "That was inappropriate, you need to stop." Oh. My bad. I didn't know having fun was against YOUR honor code Mr. Uptight rm.

"Is that what your hair really looks like?" "Yeah, very curly" "It's shhhhexy. Wear it like that more often."

Thank you for giving the modesty/chastity lesson the one Sunday I wear a skirt barely above my knee. Make me feel like a prostitute...

"I'm from Orem." "Oh, so you're from Satan's corner of Happy Valley?" "umm... Sure." Has anyone else had Orem referred to in that way before?

and those are snippets of my life from Apt. 252

Celery Bunch

For someone who grew up in the home of a dietitian, you sure do eat an awful lot of popcorn and Top Ramen.

Online

Brad Paisley

I think there is something in the water here, something like the potion Alice drinks to make her smaller.

I've never thought myself to be tall, especially with a Dad at 6'2" and a younger brother at 6'. 5'7" is short to me, and I've always thought so. But here, I'm tall.

All the dashing men here are at least one inch shorter than me. Honestly....

Maybe it's because back home all my guy friends are athletes making me accustomed to being surrounded by taller boys and feeling extremely small. But here, there aren't all that many athletes, and they're all small. You'd think that there would be at least a group of good looking boys over 6 feet.

I've only met 3.

"Where Are You From?"

"Hi, my name is_______, and I'm from "Some small town" and Rexburg is the biggest town I've lived in!"

Wow.....

It Girl

Jason Derulo. So good.

Last night was the first night since I've been here that the words "I'm a freshman" didn't scare the boys away.

The night of the holy wars, so a new friend and myself went to the 'Crossroads' where they were playing the game on the big screen. We obviously wanted to engage in conversation with the opposite gender, so we picked a table with very decent looking boys and two open chairs. Turns out that one of the boys is from her home town, and one was from mine, although none of us knew each other.

Unless you were living under a rock this weekend, you now know the outcome of this game. It wasn't so hot for those who bleed blue. At the third quarter my friend and I got up to leave to perhaps find a party somewhere. The boys got up as well. But, since we didn't have solid plans, and they didn't either, they got our numbers to meet up with us later.

There was an exclusive, bouncers included party at the apartment complex of one of the boys. And since most of us didn't live there, we didn't think we would get it. But my friend with her small figure and flirty composure, distracted the massive men while we snuck in. She joined us shortly after.

It was an actual college party. Not a BYU-I party, but a college party. Weird to experience, but we rather enjoyed ourselves.

We left the party half an hour before curfew, to have a late night jam session at my friends apartment. Turns out I can play guitar chords I didn't know I knew.

We then listened to my friends acoustic cover of It Girl. So good. She's going to be famous one day. Even has the T-Swift hair for it.

California Girls

Beach Boys

I woke up this morning, at the beautiful time of say, 9:30? (I thoroughly enjoy no early class on Friday) And I woke up to the gorgeous sight of pouring rain. It wasn't a downpour, and cats and dogs were not involved, but it was a constant, steady rain. Me and my roommate Steph were thoroughly excited. So, I left for class, not wearing a jacket or sporting an umbrella, and absolutely loving the weather around me. My fellow classmates? Not so much.

BYU-I has a very high population of native Californian's. And you can easily pick them out of a crowd when the windy, rainy weather hits. I walk into my writing for media class, rather chipper, and get almost menacing stares from a few of the people in the class. "It's freezing!" "Oh, I know right? I'm wearing yoga pants under my jeans, annnnd, 3 shirts and my sweatshirt!!" Myself, and the girl in front of me laughed out loud. She's from Seattle, and I'm from Orem. This weather, to us, is no big deal. But to them, I suppose it's near the end of the world. The poor things have no idea what's in store for them. The winds, the snow, the ice? They're going to be haters sooner than they realize.

Bring on the snow and ice. I need a good laugh right about now.

Ring Check

I'm a freshman, taking almost all required generals. So, naturally, my thoughts were, "I will be surrounded by mormon girls and pre-mi boys." Wrong. Oh, so wrong. I suppose me and my naive, straight out of high school mind didn't process all of the countless returned missionaries and transferred men that would be taking these general classes as well. Shoot.

So naturally the eyes fall to the shirt lines, to determine if they have returned or have yet to leave. You also think that the eyes would fall to the left hand, mine don't. It's a curse.

Other than my writing for media class, I have sat by a married man in all my MWF classes, and in one on my TTH classes. I didn't think at first to check, that all the boys I would meet would be single. But I was so wrong. If I was a smart single girl, I would sit by an available boy next time. Only, I get along so much better with the older ones than the 19 year olds...

This could be a problem.

And in case any of you were wondering, the gorgeous mystery boy did not appear between writing and math. Maybe Friday...

The Mystery Man

With Freshman plastered thickly across my forehead, I turned my map all which ways, trying desperately to find my class in the short ten minutes I had. When out of nowhere a tall dark haired man with the muscles to go right along, asked me sweetly if I needed help. A desperate yes lead him to grab my hand and escort me to my building. Lucky for me his next class was right next to mine. On the way to my class, he asked me all sorts of questions, and we got a long rather well. At least, better than anyone else here. At one point he told me his name, but I forgot it.... I'm the worst.

But, before he left he told me he would find me on Wednesday so he could help me find my class again. This could be good.

Dearest

Dearest roommate who just moved in. I know your bed is closest to the window, but it's 200 degrees in here. Please open it.

Love, your wide awake and miserable roomie

At 1 a.m.

The Subways. (Rather sad song)

First weekend at college and I made curfew by 2 minutes, why I tried so hard I'm not sure. No RA, sleeping roommates, no parents.... A few boys were out walking around a little past the time I got home. Honor code. I suppose it's in place so as to guilt trip the students in to coming home on time. It worked? I think....

Making plans to scale the school, play pranks, and already barely making curfew? I might not be at this school very long...

I didn't actually explain the title of the previous post, and with a title like that, I feel like you all deserve an explanation.

Walking home from a late night activity, around the time of 10 or so, (don't worry everyone, that's 2 hours before weekday curfew) me and a roommate, Steph, got cat called the words below by a passing car. It was rather exciting. She then flipped the car off. I didn't think she had it in her, and I was rather proud.

"Have Fun In Sexburg!"

I apologize for the inappropriate title, and now that I am a BYU-I girl, following strict honor codes, I should be more aware, but I found this quote extremely appropriate for my first post away from home.

My church is at 9:30. Approximately 1 zillion YSA wards here, and I get stuck with an early time. I shouldn't complain seeing as all my classes start earlier than that, but I was hoping for a little bit of a sleep in day. Guess not.

My roommate has yet to show up. The room looks strange, all moved in and divided exactly in half.

Nobody here understands sarcasm. I'm in a whole heap of trouble, and a whole heap of people give me strange looks. I'm not as funny here as I was in Orem.

I miss my Oremites....

New people are great. I rather enjoy making friends.

My major has yet to change. But my emphasis might change to PR.

This 'Get Connected' freshman deal is nothing but a glorified EFY. Get me to my college classes please.

You can definitely feel the spirit here that everyone talks about.

I cooked my first meal away from home about half an hour ago. The hamburger helper looked fine until it made it into my bowl then it gobbed itself into a softish brick. I'm in trouble kids.

Well, I'm off to a talent show? Kirby Heybourne is appearing at I-Night tomorrow. But then again, what kind of a name is Kirby?

The Wonders of Technology

Yes future roommates, I have been frequently FB stalking you.

This is going to be one wild ride of a semester.

#5694

This post is long overdue, and I only have 2 shifts left, so I suppose now is a great time to let you all in to a building that has become a small part of me.

Lakeside Shopping Center. Although, nobody actually knows where that is. It's Ross, TJ Max, Old Navy, those stores on University Parkway. Hey, now you can finally say you learned something from reading this.

I got called in for an interview around October of 2009. And was interviewed by a girl who is now one of my dearest and closest friends. Nervous as could be, I answered all of the questions as best as I knew how. Once I discussed that I would not be available from Dec. 25th to Jan. 3, I figured the job wouldn't be mine. But for some reason, they hired me anyways.

Holiday Hire; Temporary position.

I made a few friends, got along with my bosses, and earned some money. But that's all it was to me.

Fast Forward to that next summer. When another one of my very best friends was hired. We now discuss everything under the sun, share all secrets and help the other through life's drama.

Now to the end of that Summer. New management team.
I almost transferred. We all almost transferred.

But I stuck it out. And that new management team is now my 2nd family.
1 knows my entire life story, helps me with boy problems, and has my matching sarcastic personality.
1 sings all the songs that come over the speakers a little too loud and gives me advice.
1 has the best laugh in recorded history
1 insults me more than anyone, but laughs when I throw it right back at her.
1 is a 5 year old in a grown man's body.

With my now very best friends, including Mr. Grinch, this store has indeed become my second home. I'm going to miss all the sparkling personalities there, and will visit as often as I visit Orem. I wish you all could come on my next adventure with me. I hope our relationships stay as tight as they are now.

I Will Eat My Words

Bring on the cold weather

The time consuming busy work

The 7 am class

the extra long, up hill campus

the 4 hour distance from here

the learning

Bring It On

High School

Superchick. Look it up.

My brother forgot his gym clothes today. So, me, being the only one at home and the only member of the family with 0 life, ran them up to him. Of course, it had to be during the lunch period when all of the students are out and about. Awesome.

I never thought 3 short months could put so much distance between me and those hallowed halls. But one thing is for sure; I'm never going back.

The scrawny Sophomores chasing one another, the Juniors thinking this all matters, and the Seniors and their unreliability.

The boy and I soon realized how much older we really felt, him especially. We then discovered that, technically, we were trespassing.

Yep. I'm eternally grateful to have closed that chapter of my life.

Heat Wave

Bring on my snow, Christmas lights, fuzzy sweaters, and big blankets.

Hot Chocolate at the end of every day.

Soft silent falling snow.

Christmas music.


This massive muggy heat wave is not my cup of tea. The only good to come of this weather is the stormy nights.

I'm moving to the North Pole

The Longest Last Weeks

Bored? Call a friend? Yeah right.

They're all in classes, moving in, starting their next step in life. Enjoying the new and improved life that comes with loans, grants, scholarships, mac and cheese, twin beds, and roommates.

Me? Oh no, not yet. I work like a dog. Practically living at Old Navy. A couple times I've contemplated spending the night cuddled up in the sweaters to save on gas.

If it weren't for the boy and the friends at work, I truly would have no life....

September 8th couldn't come soon enough.

Spontaeity

"I think I want to move to Salt Lake"

One Week Later

"Hey, I'm transferring to the Gateway Old Navy, cause I got an apartment with my boyfriend on North Temple."

Most of us can only wish to have that sort of drive and desire.

The Date

He knew I had been craving a steak for quite sometime, poor thing had to listen to me whine and grump about it.

So he took me to Texas Roadhouse. And my mouth still couldn't handle the medium rare wonders. So I ate shredded pork and mashed potatoes with enough butter to make my buttons pop.
It was all too soon. I felt like a recovering alcoholic in a wine cellar.

He then put me in his car and fastened a blindfold to my face.

And the rest is irrelevant.

Moving Out

JUST KIDDING



I'm here in good ol' Utah County for a couple more weeks.

My summer has yet to end

Get me out of here.

Chipmunk

The liquid food diet will be the death of me.

Someone bring me a steak

Sunday Morning

Maroon 5.

How does this song come up on a Brad Paisley play list on Pandora?

Long Time No See

It's been a while, but distractions of a summer drawing to a close have captured my full attention.

Got my wisdom teeth out this morning, lovely. I didn't sing, or ramble on like most have on the anesthesia. I simply scolded my mom for going 4 over the speed limit on the way home. Now I'm writing on Loretab. Good luck me.

Yellowstone is full of hidden beauties. I climbed all over the rocks and waterfalls, nearly waded across a river, raced my dad who then ended up scraped and bruised from tripping shortly after throwing rocks at me. Fished and didn't catch anything. Fell in love with the Teton's, climbing them is now on my list of things to do before I'm 30. Witnessed my aunt waking up to fresh mouse droppings on her bed. Witnessed moose (meese?) right outside the cabin window, and experienced a hick town, city population 215, sacrament meeting. Boy was that an experience for the books.

These are only 2 small things, what else has been distracting me you might ask? The boy. The one who tends to hold my wrist rather than my hand to make me feel even more like a child, Explores rocks and waterfalls with me, loves watching movies, shares my love for walks, doesn't understand my fetish for feet, plays one on one basketball with me and doesn't let me win but starts to get extremely aggressive when I come close to beating him. He's the one from Texas that can't comprehend my love and obsession with snow and Christmas time. The one to take on the task of really teaching me to longboard. No matter how many scars I might obtain. (We're up to 4 now) The one who sings at the top of his lungs, then turns timid when he realizes I'm staring. The one who has a cow when I tell his 26 year old friends I'm barely 16. We grocery shop late at night, and, per his request, venture to all of my childhood memory locations.
The one who I'm leaving in less than a month. And am not sure how it's going to pan out.

Maybe one day you all can meet him.

1 Month

Unlike the majority of those I graduated with, I have 1 month until I leave for school. Some have recently left, and most have 2ish weeks. Not me, I've got me a whole month.

Heaven help me

Someone took the remote to my life and put it on pause.

In ways it's a good thing. More time with my family, the boy, and all those at work I love.
I don't see my family much as it is right now, I'm always out at work or with him, maybe I should change that....
I'm with the boy a lot, but with only a month left, can you blame me?
I have a deep down feeling tears will be shed when I leave the Orem Old Navy, I won't get into that now though, spare you the sappiness.

I'm ready for life to move on.

Yet, I know that when the time does come for me to move forward, I won't be ready, and praying for more time.

Sister Lewis

You might think we look alike, and maybe we do. But personally, I have never seen it. To the right is my big sister, the glowing ecstatic missionary. I love her immensely, and I miss her even more. My life has taken so many unexpected turns, and I know that there are many more to come, and I wish she was here to help me through them all. She's probably the only person that could criticize me without me making a snotty remark or comeback. And right now I could use her criticism and wise words. She always has the bigger picture in mind when helping me with my life. I've never been good at that, I tend to live each day, and, regretfully, I disregard consequences. And when I hit bottom she's always been there. She still is, she's not dead you know. But she's extremely far away, and busier than I could imagine. She's happier than she's ever been, and I know that she's doing the best thing she possibly could. Oh, mess with her and I will mess up your face.

Non Emergency Police

Is their number ever truly useful to anyone? It has been programmed into my phone since my sophomore year of Seminary when my teacher gave it to us in case we locked our keys in our car. And me being who I am, programmed it in immediately. Haven't used it once.

Until Last Night

Traveling home from the drive in movies with the boy and some friends at 3 A.M. we noticed some extremely suspicious behavior. An unmarked, no plates, dark tinted windowed Viper, followed closely by a brand new Mustang with windows just as dark, who was then followed closely by a bullet bike. Almost sketch right?
Every time the red Viper changed lanes, the mustang and bike were right behind. The mustang and bike wouldn't let anyone behind the viper or the mustang. We tried.

Drug Cartel? Perhaps.

We traveled alongside this caravan for a good 20 min, with their habits unchanging. One boy then decides that calling the police would be a good idea. That's where I came in handy. He gave the description, and his reasoning for calling, and all the while the man on the bullet bike was staring us down. Those of us in the back seat moved our heads out of view. The bike man then reached for something behind him...

Not long after our call they all exited the freeway. Maybe the mustang was listening to dispatch?

This is why I don't stay out until 3 in the morning.

September

I turn 19 and move to school.

September, you couldn't come soon enough

Wednesday Fun Day

When the parents and brother go to mutual. My kid sister and I celebrate Wednesday Fun Day.

We redboxed Justin Bieber, and bought cheap candy. We thoroughly enjoyed the night.
JB's perfectly quaffed hair and oh so magnificent voice still just doesn't do it for me. Sorry female pre-teens of America...


To the ladies who scream at the top of their lungs in Old Navy, I salute you.

1st Class to Coach

We met in a McDonald's.

We became 'official' in a Taco Bell.

We're classy people.

For The Moments When You Wish You Had A Camera

Maybe I should be more like Meg, or Stephanie, and religiously carry a camera to document the perfect moments in my day, but my attention span is too small, I get distracted much too easily, and well, I'm a little too lazy to carry a camera. So, to substitute for not having a camera at my side during my week in Washington, here are some things to view.
The neighboring swiss alps like town, a Christmas dream.
My grandparents house.
The lake, where I spent much of my summer at, and the rest of the year wishing I was there.
And the town where my grandparents reside.

These have all been a huge part of my life, we journeyed there at least twice a year. Things are going to be different now, but it doesn't mean I'm never going back.

We Come Here Often

It's become our sanctuary
Annie and I,
We unwind, vent, and gossip of the goings on at Old Navy.

Farr's, you're good to us. We thank you.

When In Doubt

When confused about your life, the goings on or the thoughts behind your own actions, consult with a life long friend.

They know you better than you know yourself, and can explain almost exactly why things are the way they are.

Who would have thought.

I'm being whisked away...

22

Spending a rather large amount of my time at work, I associate with a majority of college aged humans. They're great, and we all love each other, but they make me feel a lot like a child, which indeed I am, but coming right out of the top of the food chain known as high school, child-like is a strange and abnormal feeling.

I suppose that I should have seen this coming... Everyone else did.

When invited to participate in activities by a college aged co-worker, I was never sure what to expect. All I knew was that she is practically a big sister to me, and that her 5 foot 3 inch fury would take out anyone who hurt me. What she had in store for me though... Still throws me for a loop.

1st outing. We barely talked, but exchanged a few glances.
2nd outing. We teased and laughed, he pulled several tricks that made me scream, and he held me in front of park sprinklers more than once. He got my number.
3rd outing. He took me to a gathering of a few of his co-workers. Board games and fireworks. He left with a burn on the side of his neck.
4th outing. He had the brilliant idea to take me longboarding down Provo Canyon. I now have no skin on my right knee and forearm. Countless questions and answers were exchanged between one another and we realized we had a lot more in common than expected.

This Texan has indeed thrown me for a loop. Who knows what is to come.
2 more things.
He's 22.
RM.

I laughed at the thought of a situation like this merely weeks ago. And now look at me.

21st Century

I got the Droid Incredible today. I've been waiting for this day for, well two years.

2 years ago I thought I was getting an amazing phone, it had a slide out keyboard right? Once it started sending text messages to wrong people, I realized I had made a mistake.

This new phone is so completely over my head.

But I'm loving every minute trying to figure it out.

Aw, You Love Each Other....

I'm so glad people have found love. You deserve it I'm sure.

Get off each other in public. PLEASE.

I'm just trying to do my job. Scan your items, and take your money. I'm just trying to make a meager living. Please let me do so without having the urge to throw up. It's extremely uncomfortable when you hand me your card with your other hand up her shirt. It also makes it hard to give you your card back when your tongue is down her throat....
I'm sure it feels great to be in love.
But I'm also extremely sure it's not that hard to keep your hands semi-off one another while in public.

Get a room. I beg you.

Twitterpated

I've noticed recently, that the love bug is making his rounds, and biting nearly everyone in sight.

Love is in the air, for many.

It's summer love time.

Mr. Grinch

In the battle of Blogging.....Here's my next move.

Logan, it made my day. My bright red tongue and all.

Young at Heart Apparently....

"Let's go get dinner after work" An innocent statement right? That's what I thought too...

Me and 2 other ladies headed over to the only open fast food at 11 at night, McDonalds. Nina called some of her friends to join us, not a problem right? I didn't think so at first either.

They arrive. A loud and out of control bunch swarm our seats. They are all a bit older than me, the youngest being 20. But I didn't think that a problem. They oldest had to be only 25 or so right?

These kids were my kind of people. Extremely loud, and a little on the crazy side. One in particular took a rather strange liking to me. Posing all of his questions, jokes and comments, directly at me. It wasn't too bad... Although his jokes were not my cup of tea. And I had always thought that pretending to be "Bad A" was a very "high school" thing to do, but this guy definitely proved me wrong.

As the night came to a close, they all wanted to play soda drinking games, but it was late and I felt like going home was a better choice for me, so I started to say my goodbye's to my girls. I was then ambushed. A man with a Santa like figure ambushed me. It scared me and I wasn't sure what to do... "We should be facebook friends!" So right then and there he whips out his phone and looks me up.

When I got home, I agreed to be his friend, but only to gather some more information on this interesting character.... He had graduated high school in 1996, I was born in 1992. This man was old. 33 years old, nearly old enough to be my dad. And that was the end of our facebook friendship.

Bring This Back, And You Could Save 10%

A large amount of discarded customer surveys, a best friend, and a stapler turns into a long string of surveys all connected.

I practically live at Old Navy, and nights like this, where we lose our sanity and 5 ONC's turns into 2 free movie tickets and a gift card to starbucks,
the second home becomes welcoming.

You Get the Car, I'll Get the Cash

I finally met Johnny. I've loved him since I discovered him in 9th grade. I got a picture with him. My ridiculous smile? A small glance into what my mind was going through. I nearly fell over, and my hand shook uncontrollably for a good half an hour.
I finally met Johnny.


Their show was amazing. I met amazing people, and spent time with amazing old friends.
And, I met Johnny


All I need to do is meet Augustana, you know, be in town when the finally come to Utah? Then the songs of my life will be complete

The Sticky Note

All because of a small sticky note, things are maybe back to where they once where.

When a incredibly tight friendship breaks off suddenly, and no speaking, calling, texting, or even eye contact occurs, your whole world flips. You have to learn to go through your day without them, their advice, constant support, mindless bickering, and all in between. Life as you once knew it? Gone.

You interact, but only on a civil level. The occasional greeting, or quick math problem discussion occur occasionally, but both without eye contact. Things start to get better. You start to to yourself, "hey, maybe it won't be so bad. Maybe I can do it." You make more friends, become closer to old friends. Life is looking up.

10 months go by. Their person becomes a thought on the back burner. You think of them only when their name is mentioned, or your eyes quickly meet in a class. They become an after thought. Someone you once knew and will always care about, but now has a very separate life from yours. And just maybe, you're ok with that.

Then one sticky note, a small conversation, and things kick back into gear. Maybe not full swing, but the wheels are slowly turning again. You're carrying on a conversation like you would have 10 months ago. Things between you aren't any different. Sure, the expressions and sentiments aren't completely genuine, but this is very new, and you still aren't sure what's happening. You still know the other like the back of your hand. They've changed a little, but not really, they're still that best friend. The friend you've had since 8th grade, could be back in your life again, as if they had never left.

And all because of a sticky note.

He's a Keeper

This is a public apology for Cristian, dragging you all around the mall, to nearly every store and to some stores more than once, to find a shirt to match a new skirt.

He was a good sport. Never said anything about boredom, and commented on certain items if they tickled his fancy.

We poked fun at each other, had some brief moments of people watching, and a small session of secret telling.

For letting me drag him around, I was going to get him some Farr's at the conclusion of our endeavor, but chivalry runs strong through this boy's veins, so I was denied. Several times.

He was great about it all, and at time I think he had some fun, but he has much too much testosterone to thoroughly enjoy an outing like this. It's fine though. We like him that way.
Thanks Cris.

Bells Already?

Girls getting engaged and married already? You make me nervous.

I'm too young.

So Close

I have my schedule planned

A job lined up

Roommates to meet

People to get away from

New people to befriend

Study things I enjoy

I'm ready. September 12 Couldn't come soon enough

Where's The I.V.

They're all at Young Women's. Preparing for girls camp. Both of which I am forbidden to attend.

I'm having withdrawls

Sometimes....

We wish we looked just like Marilyn Monroe

G.N.O.

Girl's nights are fabulous. Secrets are shared and the laughter seems to be at a constant. They're much needed at times.

My favorite are the girl's days I spend with my momma.

2 birthday's, a Father's Day, and a missionary in dire need of essentials turns my mother and I into frequent shoppers. And with the brother at scout camp, the sister at the grandparents, we have all the time in the world.

Down to the mall, distribution center, Deseret Book, Hallmark, and the wonderful mall. We conquered south Orem. At least, the mormon parts of it....

To end our 2 day adventure we went to Farr's. I knew I liked my mom when she snorted at me "ha! I'm paying, they get to stamp MY card!" She's a gem.

I'm rather fond of her.

Sweet Home Alabama

Orem Summerfest. The most anticipated weekend of summer as a child. I loved being in the parade with my ballet class. And the fireworks always amazed me.

Some of this is still true. It's for the most part enjoyable, and the fireworks have yet to disappoint me, but I realize now the sort of people that come to these kinds of events.

Everyone.

I'm going to be honestly blunt here. I've never seen so much, well, white trash in all my life. And coming immediately from New York, I felt like I had entered Hicktown, USA. Don't get me wrong, people watching is a strong hobby of mine, and events like these fascinate me. I loved it. But good grief.

It may be summer now, but that doesn't mean we can walk around in clothes that could serve as underwear. Mmm. Attractive.

Thoroughly Modern

New York was phenomenal.
I don't care how long it takes, but I will move there. Preferably the Manhattan area.

Perhaps it was the dozens of languages I heard spoken, or the wide diversity, the broadway musicals on every corner, the entire avenue devoted to food, 5th avenue upscale glamor, Tiffany's, the central park appeal, or the bright, daytime feel on Times Square at 11 pm. It was engrossing, intoxicating, amazing.

The sweet Irish waitress whom I was nearly certain was going to adopt me. The fascinating New York accents, the pushy, touchy asians. Confusing and marvelous.

My name won't be in lights, I won't be headlining on Broadway, and I won't have the money to live in the same building as Yoko Ono. My name will be in fine print after a column of the New York Times or Wall Street Journal. I won't be famous, but I will become a citizen of that amazing city.

True, I immediately knew I was a small town mormon the moment I arrived, but I'll learn to fit in.

Hallelujah

High school is over. This weekend has put me on cloud 9.
-graduation. Funny kids to sit by. (Irony is when you become friends at graduation with people you've gone to school with for 3 years.)
-After party. Too much food. Not enough room.
-Stomp. My last one.
-All nighter. Went out with a bang. Did everything a stereotypical high schooler does. I feel accomplished.
-Shooting with my uncle. Smelling like gun powder ('man smell')
-Sleeping at random intervals to make up for arriving home at 5 a.m. after the all nighter.
-Sophie's baptism. I cried. It's not a big deal.
-My senior recital. Didn't do as good as I had hoped, but better than expected. I'm content.
-So much food, so many friends.

What a perfect weekend.

Excuse Me?

I can't wait to get out of the predetermined judgments that come with high school teenagers.
I desperately need a new start. Or at least a separation from a certain few. Idaho doesn't seem that far but it's 277 miles and 4 hours, 25 minutes away. Much better than the next city over.

'Ahem'

"excuse me miss, do you work here?" No. I wear Old Navy Flag shirts with staff across the back, and a name tag, for fun. "yes I do, how can I help you?"

"Oh I'm sorry, let me unfold what you're fixing" (messes up freshly folded pile) oh go right ahead. Leave the mess. You're only the reason I'm here until midnight. "Oh you're fine, go right ahead"

"Wow. That's awfully messy..." Is it now? Weird, I had no idea... (Sitting in the middle of the mountain of clothes) "Haha, yeah it is"

"Oh, are you guys closing?" No. We spontaneously turn off the music, shut off half the lights and lock the in door, just because we can. "Yeah in a few minutes"

"Which color do you like better?" Well, neither, that shirt is hideous and will look awful no matter which color you choose. "oh the red one for sure"

"I'm sorry, you're closing I should probably hurry up huh?" Please. I have a social life, and a bedtime. You're the only reason I'm still here. "Oh don't worry about it, take your time"

Clicking Pens and Tapping Feet

I want out. Now. There's only a week left. Countdown 7 days until I walk to retrieve my diploma. Once that puppy is tightly in my grasp, I'm running away. Running away knowing I'm done. No more teachers to send me in the hall for my speaking without thinking. No more crowded hallways filled with PDA, crack, and cussing. No more classes I can't stand. No more class at 7:45.
No More.
Sure, I could be nostalgic and list the many things I will probably miss about high school and being a teenager. But that's for another day. A day when I'm not itching to leave the hallways that seem to constantly be closing in on me. A day when I'm not dying to leave the kids that judge and treat me based upon my rumored past.
I'm ready for my new start, a summer, a new beginning.

I'm 19 in 3 months. I start college in 3 months. I'm scared out of my wits and couldn't be more excited about it.

It's beginning...

The flag tee's with STAFF printed largely across the back.
The way too many amount of new co-workers that think I'm more new to the job than them, due to my countless absences during softball season.
The millions of flip-flops strewn across the floor.
The random occurrence of the partner-less shoe.
The sun still up at closing time.
The struggle with hangers not because the wide necked sweaters never stay on, but because the small strap dresses enjoy entangling themselves with one another.
The pure confusion when searching for the home of a random t-shirt.
The newfangled ugly designed clothes we are all positive were designed by children or drugged adults.

It's beginning.

The summer at Old Navy

As Zion's Youth In Latter Days

We graduate from Seminary on a fine, rainy, Sunday evening.

Listening to the comments made by those at the pulpit, my mind started whirling. It really is coming to an end, the happy routine you've known since the sweet age of 15 is stopping completely, and those you've grown to love could possibly disappear from your life forever.

This could all be a very good thing. New opportunities, new friends, new places, new routines, new desires. It could be amazing.

But then again, we're leaving behind all we knew, and all we've come to know since we could walk.
The ties we made in elementary school have begun to fade over the years, and will almost completely disappear in our lives. The friendships we made in middle school have either continued to blossom, or have turned into plateaued relationships. With the occasional visits every few months. The bonds we've made in high school have come to be some of the strongest ones we've ever known. And they will either continue or cease to exist. It's how life is I suppose.

Let's live up these next 2 very short weeks. Forgetting about colleges, money, and futures. Let's bask in our own glow. The glow that comes from knowing we've finished. Let's forget who won prom queen, who was SB president, who dated the most girls, who was a game winning starter and who started left bench consistently, who had the best hair, who took the most pictures, and who wore most fashionable ensemble. Let's just enjoy each other while we still can.

Constants

When AP tests come to a conclusion, school begins to wind down, and summer comes into our sights, I begin to remember the constant re-occurring pieces of bliss.
-Returning to self chosen books, not the ones that must be read with an analytical view, but ones you can simply read for the joy of reading
-The smell of cut grass
-The warm sun that always makes me want to wash a car
-The joy of knowing that there is nothing to do
-The almost mid-point until Christmas that turns me to holiday tunes for half an hour or so
-More sit down dinners, now that everyone isn't so busy anymore
-The constant movies in every class
-The observing of Summer romances beginning to spring up
-Laziness

Cristian Martinez

I don't believe there to be any boy out there with a stronger spirit or sweeter disposition. He's my best friend, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

He listens to me at 1 or 2 in the morning, when I can't even understand myself. He calms me down, and shares with me his testimony and love for life. With his rock solid testimony and pure love for the scriptures, my attitude about everything always changes. Always.

He sees the bigger picture. That there is something truly wonderful waiting for all of us, that we just have to wait, try our best, and reach for God's hand when we slip.

His life is harder than mine. He goes through things I can't even comprehend. But he does them with a smile on his face.

He's the true definition of a role model.

Senioritis or Defeat?

Perhaps I've been blaming my absences throughout my daily life on my soon to be graduation. But, deep down, I know I've been defeated.
-Softball looses it's appeal it's had all my life. The season couldn't have ended any sooner for me. As horrible of a taste that phrase in my mouth. It's real.
-Music playing lost all it's fire. I blamed my lack of practicing and skill on softball season and complete lack of time. But, turns out I just didn't want to play. But after rejection letters, and a complete memory loss in the middle of the state performance.... maybe it's time I set my violin down. I've never forgotten a song while playing it before. Especially a song I've had memorized since February. What happened during my state performance was utterly embarrassing. Something I wish to never relive. My recital on Saturday, and Senior recital next month have turned into burdens rather than celebratory events. Stage fright full throttle. What has become of me?
-Homework time turns into reading time. I'm passing my classes and graduating regardless of these last few assignments. Why not catch up on Harry Ron and Hermione instead of parameters, confidence intervals, and persuasive essays.

I'm not giving up on life. I'm not even sure I'm ready for my new chapter to start come September. But maybe it's time to reevaluate my reality, and patch up the holes that have been created these past few months.

Boys Of Summer

The Ataris.
Sharissa and I hatched our first bucket list. For the up and coming summer of 2011.
It consists mostly of childish things like blowing bubbles, a sleepover outside, a day of Disney movies, building a fort, and so on. This list will cause us to forget those in high school we don't wish to remember, cause us to tune out the growing up and responsibility buzz that seems to be echoing from every direction. It will be our escape. Our last Hurrah.

Sidenote: Some of our chosen paths change not because we change them, but because others change them for us. Some of us have to pay for our education, even though we got good grades and tried to achieve in everything. Some of us have to keep a job during college. This is why growing up really, really scares me.

Best Love Song

T-Pain and Chris Brown.

I've decided the hip-hop/rap isn't always awful. This song backs up my opinion quite well.

Questions:
-Why the need for mini-plastic water bottles? If I wanted a gulp of water I would take one from my normal sized bottle and still have more for later, rather than take a gulp and be finished. I would constantly be filling it up.... They're useless in my eyes.
-Are snarky comments to teachers really that bad? All I do is make remarks, but I get called out every time... Other people do the same thing and the teachers think it enjoyable. I think I have a "Please Hate Me" sign on my forehead only visible to teachers.
-Tanning? Medically recommended by my dermatologist. Love my life.
-Why do fun people always come into my life as school is coming to a close?
-One person? Katy and I are slowly becoming one...

Every Morning

Sugar Ray
Like so many weekends spent with Katy, we get bored at some point or another and venture around the valley looking for something exciting.
After last night, I believe we will be doing this more often.
Riverwoods.
We were told to meet there by two junior boys who seemed to be just as bored as we were, pulling up to park we discovered something. There wasn't any parking. Why? We didn't know either.
Turns out there was a concert right smack in the middle of the strip mall.
Sugar Ray
Cool huh? We thought so.
Let me give some background before I describe the next event.
Our original plan that night was to make fun of prom dresses around the mall, try on the ugly ones and make fun of one another. So, naturally, I simply wore old basketball sweatpants and last year's softball shirt.
So as we were dancing near the back of the crowd an extremely dashing man offered his jacket to me, I suppose I looked cold. And not only did he offer, he persisted and nearly thrust it into my arms. But me and my stupid self declined. Why I didn't accept and use his jacket as an excuse to converse with him? Well, that question makes me want to sock myself.

My brain is still stuck in the "I'm too young and still in high school mode" and it needs to get out quick. My high school career is coming to a close rather soon, and approaches like previously stated won't be considered creepy and pedophile-like anymore. It will become the norm.

This boy approached me in raggedy sweats and my hair resembling that of a daddy-long-legs spider. Who knows what could have happened if I would have looked decent.

Blow

Ke$ha.

Thanks to Sharissa's house and her never ending supply of refreshments, after lunch, 3rd period, and a whole thing of gatorade, I was about to blow.
But I couldn't go home during my free period, I had to take a quiz right? Yikes. Maybe an over excited bladder would help me concentrate...

Why not just use one of the many restrooms at school? Perhaps you all have forgotten my inexplicable yet quite controlling fear of public restrooms. (I often venture to the seminary bathrooms if needs be. Holy toilets are a little more comforting.)

As I entered my mom's study hall class to take my math quiz, she looked at me rather funny. "Do you need to go to the bathroom first?" She then remembered my fear and told me to go to seminary. I couldn't today. "Drive home, then come back to take it. You'll have time,"

Yes I did waste all that gas going home and back to perform a task I could have accomplished 5 steps away from her classroom.

"I'll come to your work and buy something expensive in all pennies." "I won't go to prom with you." My future prom date and I get along real well.

Proud to be a Senior 2o11.

Good Life

One Republic. It's my new addiction

There's less than 2 months of high school left. You're associating with the people that helped you trudge through the miserable weeks of tests, boring teachers, unfair grades, and ruthless never-ending drama. These last two months with them could be nothing short of grand if you don't take them for granted. Cut the drama. Good grief.

In my shower this evening, I felt an odd itch on my back. Assuming it was just a loose hair i let the water rinse it off. But, then the itch began to move up my back, that didn't make sense to me. So I swiped my back to find on my hand a new friend. I named him Hercules. Possibly the biggest, strongest spider I will ever encounter. What spider can stand against a shower? None. I then screamed, shook him off my hand and sent him to the big web in the sky via my conditioner bottle.

Washed my face to find a lot of red dirt. Q-tipped my ears to find more red dirt. Softball season must be in full swing.

My hat goes off to those who live on the highest rung of the social status ladder, yet still acknowledge all those around them. You will go far.

Blame It On The Girls

Mika.

Priesthood Session. A blessing to the men. And a blessing for the women as well; girls night out.

Old Navy is a proud sponsor of this event.

Women everywhere, screaming babies echoed throughout the store, presents for their men were being purchased, and credit limits were definitely reached.

Women should not be set free with 0 supervision for that long.

Private Idaho

B52's

BYU-I here I come.
Rejection letter for music. Again. I told them I wasn't good enough to audition for these sorts of things. They should have believed me. Oh well. Another one to hang on the wall I 'spose. All my non-existent talent will be put towards my senior recital in early June. If you read this you are invited.

Even though music won't be my major, possibly not even my minor, I will still be attending the Y. Idaho style. I will be avoiding flip-flops, sweats to class, boys in my dorm, and warmth come next school year. My roommate wishes to attend the temple with me once a week, and after facebook stalking my potential bunk mate, I came to the conclusion that (based off merely her profile picture) she plays the harp and looks rather shy. Poor thing doesn't know what she's in for, having to live with me. Nor does the other room of girls in the apartment. They're all in for a lovely surprise.

I have helped a total of 6 boys either ask, or plan the asking for prom. But have yet to be asked myself. I believe I have come to terms that my attendance at prom will be non-existent.

Softball practice gets interesting. We dance on the field, watch our coach pull off moves he shouldn't try, scream like Polynesians, and stick our tongue out when concentrating. (It's something I don't realize I'm doing. No pictures please) I love senior year sports.

Happy Ending

Mika.

Sharissa is a gem.
We began our late night by discussing books with questionable morals. Books that depicted the life of a high school teenager living outside the boundaries of Utah. I don't think some of us realize how different life is out there. At times I think it another planet.

We then facebook stalked our crushes. Simply to admire all their pictures, discuss their shining personalities, looks and such, and then plan ways for us to get noticed. We both seem to be hit by the love bug. Which is fine, if you're in jr. high. But losing all sanity, vocal abilities and movement when you're 18, well, it shouldn't happen.

Off to the movies. Did we see a grown up movie like The Adjustment Bureau? No, not us. We saw Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Not only did we find ourselves relating to the poor 7th grader who couldn't get noticed by the girl he loved, but we both found the older, punk-looking brother attractive. I thought all hope was lost for us. But in the end Greg gets his girl. Maybe there's a chance?

It's lovely to have someone on the same page as you.

Why Can't the English?

Henry Higgins. My Fair Lady.

I've done my fair reading of Shakespeare, and works by English authors. And I've figured something out. If we used the language they did, our lives would seem so much more interesting.
Instead of someone saying, "oh that sounds fun" you could say instead "that sounds rather sporting" say "chipper" or "smashing." I would be so much more interested in a person if they used language like this. I'm reading a novel by a British author at the moment, and every paragraph holds me captive. I need to date a foreign boy.

Sharissa writes extremely fabulous stories. I look forward to them regularly, and have now been assigned the position of her editor. I'm honored and thrilled. This girl will go far in life.

Prom? Love to be asked, but the odds aren't in my favor. I'm all for dressing up and attending the movie if I don't attend the real thing. It'll be a ball.

My mom is leaving for the weekend. I don't much like when she leaves. Even if it's for only a weekend. But she more than deserves a weekend with her friends. She's amazing.

3rd term is finally over. 1 more and I'm out for good. I shall never miss these hallowed halls.

Hyperbolic Orbit

Benjamin Newman. Yes, it is a song.

Physics. It's boring. Can I get an amen?

I wrote a note to Katy to keep myself from falling asleep in class today, it didn't work. I nodded off while writing.
Katy sits in the back, so she reads Pygmalion to keep herself entertained. She also has intriguing people surrounding her. I sit front and center. Surrounded by the boy that doesn't speak to me and the boy that never comes. It's lovely.

I suppose if you did nothing but experiments then physics might be a little entertaining, but when your teacher does the same experiment 3 classes in a row things lose interest for me. Or even when he flies a remote control helicopter around you think class would get exciting, it doesn't. It merely makes me feel uncomfortable due to his inability to fly the dang thing and it nearly takes my nose off.

His voice drones on. And the only thing I take pleasure in is counting how many times his microphone attached to his neck dies and comes back to life. I'm thrilling I know.

I need to graduate.

The Middle

Jimmy Eat World.
(A continuation from a dinner conversation, to which I wasn't present)

Look around wherever you are, find someone that's normal. Ha, it's impossible isn't it?

Everyone has a weird quirk about them. Everyone.

Stealing Happy Hours

311. Courtesy of Erin.
Losing an hour of sleep is not my cup of tea.

I suppose a bit of my exhaustion is my own fault. Softball bonding weekend, a new tradition to this season was this weekend. So was my youth conference. I stayed up til 12 or 1 with my girls, to then wake at 7 so as to be at the best of EFY at 8:15. Then I worked my little tail of during a one day wonder. I felt bad leaving 2 overflowing carts and 3 racks of random clothes for the closing shift.... Then off to more youth conference to learn about dating from 4 newlywed couples. Oh what a hoot. And then I conversed with Becca for a few hours late into the night. Although all my fault and am feeling it now, no thanks to Ben Franklin, the weekend was well worth it.
I might have dozed off folding t-shirts at work
I might have left my phone on loud so that the hundreds of kids at EFY could hear Despicable Me minions laughing
I might have understood a total of 4 words from a co-worker with a thick Portuguese accent, which I normally have no problem understanding
I might have said many many things I should have kept inside over the course of the weekend
I might have been too blunt one too many times.
But I received several comments at work about my face being tan.
It was a worthwhile weekend. Sort of.