Last night I bought a ticket from London to Venice. This implies that I will already be in London. Let this truth be confirmed. However, truth is never confirmed easily. In fact, it is often confirmed through flames of refining fire. I found myself fighting today, for the simple things. A good friend reminded me: "Isn't that what makes it worth it?" Don't I want a man one day to fight for me? To run after me? Don't I want to fight for him? For us? Yes. Yes, please.
I had to renew my license. I was told I need to take the written test again. I just so happened to have chosen the only office in Utah that doesn't allow you to take the test. I drove to the next office, illegally, mind you, since the first office couldn't renew my expired license. Who knew that licenses expired? Hmmm... Then they told me that even after 3 different employees approved my documentation, it turns out they were wrong. So I will be visiting the 3rd utah driver's office on Friday. Whoohoo. Party time. Highlight? Icing my knee while I wait to take my test. I passed.
One week ago, I wasn't snowboarding. No, I was walking down my stairs, when catastrophe ensued. I fell down the stairs. My brilliant leg tried to regain composure en route amidst the speedy descent. This resulted in a twisted and severely jammed knee. I am icing it as we speak. I could barely walk. I couldn't drive my car for a few days. Clutch? No extension or strength would be produced by this leg for a while. "How will you get around Europe?" we all asked. Well, I am going. you can't stop me..........I will hobble down every cobblestone road in every village, to not miss a crepe, a margherita pizza, or beautiful European man. Just you wait......
I woke up this morning....sick. Back off.....no cold will keep me from my Parisian pursuit...my British bon voyage....my Italian interests, my Israeli insights, my Welsh wonders, my scottish shooting stars, nor my Gretian goals.
But I did find my long lost glasses.
And I went to dinner after a long day at work with a dear friend. We supported and encouraged one another's dreams. We remembered where we were two years ago: at the same restaurant (cafe rio) having a similar discussion. We have grown since. We have embarked on adventures. We have lived. And we will continue to do so. Why is that we both feel alone so often? I remember meeting a woman on my mission who told me that life living the Gospel of Jesus Christ is often lonely. Will that stop me? Hell, no. I believe that was appropriate to say...I literally wanted that "no" directed at hell. :)
And then I felt prompted to stop by the grocery store. I did. I found my natural cough drops. Riccola!!!! And quirky earthy baking cups for my best friend for Christmas. Then I found my reason for the late night trip: reunion with a dear friend, John Stuzzenager. It was sooo good to see him. And to hear how his stellar wife is doing. They have had a rough year...and yet, so much faith and strength have they radiated and sustained through it all. They inspire me. Thank you for this visit...
There is always a happy ending. Well, perhaps not an ending, but a happy "dot, dot, dot..." yes. My "happily . . . " The ever after will be added later.
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Friends
New Friends: Kagen. Francis' new friend. :) He has been skydiving in scuba gear. yes please.
Truth confirmed: Service often takes place in the form of TIME. Time with dear friends.
Last night my dear friend, Jess took me to a house concert for Mindy Gledhill. I realized I still have unwritten music within the acoustic chambers of my heart. There are so many ways to express ourselves...I need to encourage the melodic urges to fly! Desires need to be nurtured...let the notes ring out, wild bells.
On the way home, I exited on 6200 to see my friend...no text response, so I grabbed a card from my purse (I try to make it a habit to carry notecards with me so I can always write a classy quick thank you note or "i'm thinking of you" note.) and wrote a quick note. I didn't know which was her car, so I walked up to the door, yes, at 11:31 pm. To me, the night was young...however, I didn't want to impose that perspective on my unassuming friend or her roommates. I heard voices, so I knocked. And lo and behold, BRITTANY answered. HOORAY. I ended up sleeping over, and we awoke to magic. Snow falling gently in the frosty air. She kept thanking me for sleeping over..really, it was MY pleasure! It is becoming tradition that when I sleepover I wear the "celtic women" concert night t-shirt. I love spontaneous rendezvous' and sleepovers.
Then after work, I went to dinner with two dear friends from work. My first experience at Nicolita's pizza on university parkway. Mmmm. Yes, thank you. Such uplifting conversation..
Now off to my summer Nauvoo pageant roommate's bridal shower. It was in draper, and she couldn't thank us enough for coming and making the effort. I love spending time with sweet friends. I am blessed with friends who are dreamers...doers...lovers...(in this case, "lovers"=charity, and the Lover of God"...;)
....So, here we go...
Truth confirmed: Service often takes place in the form of TIME. Time with dear friends.
Last night my dear friend, Jess took me to a house concert for Mindy Gledhill. I realized I still have unwritten music within the acoustic chambers of my heart. There are so many ways to express ourselves...I need to encourage the melodic urges to fly! Desires need to be nurtured...let the notes ring out, wild bells.
On the way home, I exited on 6200 to see my friend...no text response, so I grabbed a card from my purse (I try to make it a habit to carry notecards with me so I can always write a classy quick thank you note or "i'm thinking of you" note.) and wrote a quick note. I didn't know which was her car, so I walked up to the door, yes, at 11:31 pm. To me, the night was young...however, I didn't want to impose that perspective on my unassuming friend or her roommates. I heard voices, so I knocked. And lo and behold, BRITTANY answered. HOORAY. I ended up sleeping over, and we awoke to magic. Snow falling gently in the frosty air. She kept thanking me for sleeping over..really, it was MY pleasure! It is becoming tradition that when I sleepover I wear the "celtic women" concert night t-shirt. I love spontaneous rendezvous' and sleepovers.
Then after work, I went to dinner with two dear friends from work. My first experience at Nicolita's pizza on university parkway. Mmmm. Yes, thank you. Such uplifting conversation..
Now off to my summer Nauvoo pageant roommate's bridal shower. It was in draper, and she couldn't thank us enough for coming and making the effort. I love spending time with sweet friends. I am blessed with friends who are dreamers...doers...lovers...(in this case, "lovers"=charity, and the Lover of God"...;)
....So, here we go...
Monday, November 28, 2011
Sponge for Goodness
Today. I was a sponge for goodness...I wanted to soak it all in from those around me...i wanted to listen...to learn...to feel...The Lord rerouted my day from the beginning...
TRUTH CONFIRMED: there are always people ready to help.
I woke up, remembering that I had to work for 1 hour at 7:50 am, however, without enough time to walk there, and no car. Texts went out..and a dear coworker volunteered to be there for me. I was able to sleep a little longer...and then be prepared with enough time for my 50 minute walk to the Missionary Training center for our meeting. It was a crisp fall day...golden leaves crunched beneath my worn boots. Aaaaaah, I wasn't even bothered by my heavy Mary Poppins bag weighing my right shoulder down. Invigorating.
TRUTH CONFIRMED: Not everyone knows what you know, even if they pretend do. They just don't get it...
I work at the MTC. I spoke with a missionary for at least 1/2 an hour. It started with: "Well, I don't want to change." It ended with: "Well, I don't want to change." It included statements like: "I don't want to be happy."
"I'm don't want to read the Book of Mormon because then I will want to change and I don't want to want to change." (interesting...he admits he has a testimony of the Book of Mormon...)
"I'm here for the wrong reasons, but I won't go home..I can't."
"I want to make a difference, but I would rather not make a difference than FEEL like a didn't make a difference."
"I don't need hope. Assume the worst in life, and just go step by step, and then you won't be disappointed."
"I know my potential is great...but I don't ever want to reach it."
Ok...what is he really afraid of? Failure? As I write this, in what areas of my life am I afraid of failure? I told him: "You are missing out...you need to let go...let the Lord in...you have to have real intent to act on what he gives you..."
Am I missing out? Do I blame the world for my disappointments, or IS there really action I can take...really doors I can open...or maybe I was only looking for doors, when there are windows open, beckoning for someone to look out and climb through (I never was the traditional type!)...or even bookcases that lead to secret passageways. Keep looking Kristen...let the Lord in...yes even in those areas...(men... :) Let the search begin...keep your eyes peeled.
(Interesting...my first reaction to this conversation when I was in it, was: "how sad. he doesn't get it...my heart aches for him to understand, to have hope, to change, to come closer to the Savior, to have JOY...". And while I still feel that, writing here, for you, has helped me to expand this experience to me, as you see just above. I am grateful for the reminder to trust, to change, to let go, to seek, to let my testimony of truth motivate how I live, in the big things, and the everyday moments. Thank you, for listening, so that I could in turn listen to what I am learning.)
BONUS TRUTH CONFIRMED: Dig deeper in your experiences...there is more to learn than the surface reactions and obvious "morals to the story."
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
i have been recommitted, yet again.
Truth: Theatre is therapeutic. You don't even have to be the one on stage to experience catharsis and recognize how you can change and be better. When the person on stage is committed, and open, allowing vulnerability to reign rather than be in control of the outcome, growth is the fruit.
"Seeing isn't believing. Believing is seeing!" A child elf taught this on "THE SANTA CLAUSE." When we believe...do we SEE it for the reality we are proclaiming it to be? If we believe in a person, do we believe that this person is REAL...with desires, fears, favorite foods, etc. These specifics and details support this person's reality...as we come to know this person, our belief in them can be stronger...as it will be founded on what makes this person whole. I was taught this tonight at rehearsal for "Savior of the World."
New friends: Brother Beeston and Brother Stay, fellow teachers at the MTC. They let me sit in on their class. They are rock star teachers.
Truth: Theatre is therapeutic. You don't even have to be the one on stage to experience catharsis and recognize how you can change and be better. When the person on stage is committed, and open, allowing vulnerability to reign rather than be in control of the outcome, growth is the fruit.
"Seeing isn't believing. Believing is seeing!" A child elf taught this on "THE SANTA CLAUSE." When we believe...do we SEE it for the reality we are proclaiming it to be? If we believe in a person, do we believe that this person is REAL...with desires, fears, favorite foods, etc. These specifics and details support this person's reality...as we come to know this person, our belief in them can be stronger...as it will be founded on what makes this person whole. I was taught this tonight at rehearsal for "Savior of the World."
New friends: Brother Beeston and Brother Stay, fellow teachers at the MTC. They let me sit in on their class. They are rock star teachers.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Listen. I may not have hair with magical qualities. But I also was not an innocent prisoner in a tower for the first 18 years of my life. Interesting, how our gifts and opportunities/situations seem to find a balance in this crazy world.
It is her 18th birthday. Her mother and father prepare her lanterns. Not a word is spoken...a tear escapes from her royal father's tired eyes, reflecting sorrow that hides a glimmer of hope. My own tears begin to fall...and continue to pledge allegiance to the tradition of faith....hoping for things that are not seen...THAT is magic. Real magic.
"...For now they saw the Prince. No one doubted for a moment who he was. ...Pale though he was from long imprisonment in the Deep Lands, dressed black, dusty, dishevelled, and w
eary, there was something in his face and air which no one could mistake. That look is in the face of all true kings of Narnia, who rule by the will of Aslan..." -The Silver Chair
I am a hopeless romantic...no, hopeful. I read these words written on paper, and felt these same etchings on my heart. Royalty is not something voted for, it is divine and deep within. We all have this potential. My future husband will be described by these words....
"You are, a cinema, I could watch you forever. Action, thriller, I could watch you forever. You are, a cinema, a Hollywood treasure. I love you just the way you are, a cinema." -Skrillex remix of Benny Benassi's "Cinema". I will be an academy award winning actress...in love, and in film.
I have been waging a war. It is hard not to fall behind enemy lines, when it is someone you love. Why drop an atomic bomb, whe
n you can just watch my heart ache? I can promise the effects will be far more destructive. I have never felt the urge for violence so strongly, as when love is the motivation. If I smacked you with all the light that is in me, would you start to see? No, I suppose it doesn't work that way. Light...love...those must be OFFERED. They LIVE in someone who is open to believe.
(https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEbcgmMCUpFe9lF9Wk-Rpnyooc8TnnBJhkrNuGH_Q8jaEKBBE7BAMN83Cy7H4EmZrtJwNWS5VZNsDIxHWnLb1eBqNFeuWeqDLxb-JGEMiSHdgZ9JsFVeSg8nkXyMfA4f8a5BCsGW8QHVt_/s1600/hiroshima+atomic+bomb+video1.jpg)
Saturday, August 27, 2011
August 26, 2011
Truth confirmed: a spoonful (or 2, or 5...) of peanut butter does make the world seem better.
Haha, while I did experience this truth tonight, it falls in line after a LONG list of truths. So I shall bullet them for you, and for me. (I love that Shanti reminded me AGAIN to write in this, because inevitably I will learn in the writing of this...so no pressure on you, to get anything out of my blog, because we know even if it is only for me, it is fulfilling its' purpose.) Some of these truths may not have only been confirmed tonight...but in the last month since I wrote last...these truths have been swimming in my mind and soul...and some born tonight.
*we learn in SOOOO many different ways, venues, through different people, at different times, different paces... and in large part this is due to our desires...and our willingness to ask, and also to recognize.
*always have a pad and paper with you...you never know when inspiration will come. (at the Weepies inspiring show tonight...ideas and thoughts were coming with speed and clarity!)
*Risk. the worst thing that can happen is that any possibility of regrets will be crushed. It may hurt...but if the wright brothers had never risked...the birds would have a monopoly on the skies.
*Pain is universal. However, it doesn't necessarily do any good to compare between parties...while pain is universal, the experiences that invoke it or allow it to simmer, will be different. Our Heavenly Father's universal plan of happiness is still catered to us as individuals in the details.
*If you are feeling at the end of your rope...it means that you are close to your destination...or the desired fruits of that mortal experience...so HANG ON. Don't let go.
*No matter how much we learn and experience, no one will ever fully comprehend the depth, beauty, and magnitude of those life-changing moments. "I guess you had to be there," takes on a whole new level. WE must be the fruits of our experiences. They will appreciate our "aha!" moments in the changes we make BECAUSE of them.
*It is vital that we recognize our gifts and talents, so that we can use them for the benefit of others.
*Our plan may unfold in pieces, rather than in one completed puzzle picture. If you are trying to unfold a piece of paper, you cannot possibly see everything on that paper until it is unfolded...but that takes time...
*God works in patterns. He always has, and He always will. I noticed a negative pattern in my life...what do i do with that? What am i supposed to be learning? How can I change?
*It is exhausting to keep giving...loving....without receiving...however, that is not true. I receive what I need from the Savior...good grief, must i be reminded again, that HE is the only one that after truly had to walk alone? I am humbled...thank you.
Ok, this is quite a bit for one entry. I encourage you to sit down and write the truths you see around you...that you are learning from your circumstances, challenges, opportunities, and your responses to all of the above...isn't that what life is all about? Amen, brothers and sisters. :) And sweet dreams. Thank you for letting me use you as a sound board so that I could learn.
p.s. you may ask: "how did she learn these things?" the answer is: through the hard experiences. yes. i heard that too.
Truth confirmed: a spoonful (or 2, or 5...) of peanut butter does make the world seem better.
Haha, while I did experience this truth tonight, it falls in line after a LONG list of truths. So I shall bullet them for you, and for me. (I love that Shanti reminded me AGAIN to write in this, because inevitably I will learn in the writing of this...so no pressure on you, to get anything out of my blog, because we know even if it is only for me, it is fulfilling its' purpose.) Some of these truths may not have only been confirmed tonight...but in the last month since I wrote last...these truths have been swimming in my mind and soul...and some born tonight.
*we learn in SOOOO many different ways, venues, through different people, at different times, different paces... and in large part this is due to our desires...and our willingness to ask, and also to recognize.
*always have a pad and paper with you...you never know when inspiration will come. (at the Weepies inspiring show tonight...ideas and thoughts were coming with speed and clarity!)
*Risk. the worst thing that can happen is that any possibility of regrets will be crushed. It may hurt...but if the wright brothers had never risked...the birds would have a monopoly on the skies.
*Pain is universal. However, it doesn't necessarily do any good to compare between parties...while pain is universal, the experiences that invoke it or allow it to simmer, will be different. Our Heavenly Father's universal plan of happiness is still catered to us as individuals in the details.
*If you are feeling at the end of your rope...it means that you are close to your destination...or the desired fruits of that mortal experience...so HANG ON. Don't let go.
*No matter how much we learn and experience, no one will ever fully comprehend the depth, beauty, and magnitude of those life-changing moments. "I guess you had to be there," takes on a whole new level. WE must be the fruits of our experiences. They will appreciate our "aha!" moments in the changes we make BECAUSE of them.
*It is vital that we recognize our gifts and talents, so that we can use them for the benefit of others.
*Our plan may unfold in pieces, rather than in one completed puzzle picture. If you are trying to unfold a piece of paper, you cannot possibly see everything on that paper until it is unfolded...but that takes time...
*God works in patterns. He always has, and He always will. I noticed a negative pattern in my life...what do i do with that? What am i supposed to be learning? How can I change?
*It is exhausting to keep giving...loving....without receiving...however, that is not true. I receive what I need from the Savior...good grief, must i be reminded again, that HE is the only one that after truly had to walk alone? I am humbled...thank you.
Ok, this is quite a bit for one entry. I encourage you to sit down and write the truths you see around you...that you are learning from your circumstances, challenges, opportunities, and your responses to all of the above...isn't that what life is all about? Amen, brothers and sisters. :) And sweet dreams. Thank you for letting me use you as a sound board so that I could learn.
p.s. you may ask: "how did she learn these things?" the answer is: through the hard experiences. yes. i heard that too.
Friday, July 22, 2011
NAUVOO.
clearly, i need to prioritize. here i am, back to share truth i have been learning. I am in Nauvoo. Again. Yes. It's amazing how one can learn so many different things, and become a different person, because of the same place. If only you can be open to it...it took a little while...here are a few things I have been learning...
*...how to give, when you have nothing left to give.
*...how to lift others, when you feel like you need lifting.
*...how to trust Heavenly Father...again...
*...how to love
*...how to look for and listen to the stories of those around you, even when you don't know the details. How to let their stories inspire you and influence your experience.
*...you don't need to know the end of your journey, to appreciate the pit stops, the flat tires, the funny billboards, the growing corn stalks, the melting tar in the epic midwest heat waves, etc.
*...that you have no end to your journey, because you are constantly sparking new beginnings.
*...when we give all we have on stage, for those on and off stage, we BECOME, rather than merely acting.
*...LISTEN.
*...open you heart to feel and be affected.
*Risk. (apparently I am not very good at this in certain areas of my life...)
I can get more specific...but these are a few things that I am learning in this sauna of a swamp that is one of the most beautiful and peaceful cities I have ever been to.
*...how to give, when you have nothing left to give.
*...how to lift others, when you feel like you need lifting.
*...how to trust Heavenly Father...again...
*...how to love
*...how to look for and listen to the stories of those around you, even when you don't know the details. How to let their stories inspire you and influence your experience.
*...you don't need to know the end of your journey, to appreciate the pit stops, the flat tires, the funny billboards, the growing corn stalks, the melting tar in the epic midwest heat waves, etc.
*...that you have no end to your journey, because you are constantly sparking new beginnings.
*...when we give all we have on stage, for those on and off stage, we BECOME, rather than merely acting.
*...LISTEN.
*...open you heart to feel and be affected.
*Risk. (apparently I am not very good at this in certain areas of my life...)
I can get more specific...but these are a few things that I am learning in this sauna of a swamp that is one of the most beautiful and peaceful cities I have ever been to.
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Tuesday
Truth confirmed: Fresh cantalope punch is delicious and refreshing. But seriously, today, I realized the power of following even the simplest of promptings, even just to text a friend. I also realized the strength that comes when we even read a few verses from the scriptures in the morning to jumpstart our reliance on the Lord and to found our day on a spiritual perspective so that we can tackle the challenges of the day with heart, soul, strength, and optimism. It turns out that the verses i read this morning were not just for me, but for that dear friend i texted. When we do the little things, He can use us to accomplish great things.
New friend: Dan, Megan's boyfriend. He is very nice and joined us for taco tuesday at El Azteca.
Truth confirmed: Fresh cantalope punch is delicious and refreshing. But seriously, today, I realized the power of following even the simplest of promptings, even just to text a friend. I also realized the strength that comes when we even read a few verses from the scriptures in the morning to jumpstart our reliance on the Lord and to found our day on a spiritual perspective so that we can tackle the challenges of the day with heart, soul, strength, and optimism. It turns out that the verses i read this morning were not just for me, but for that dear friend i texted. When we do the little things, He can use us to accomplish great things.
New friend: Dan, Megan's boyfriend. He is very nice and joined us for taco tuesday at El Azteca.
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Monday
Truth confirmed: I may not actually be homeless, but after playing a homeless person in a musical (called "SHELTER" - come see it in murray theatre this next week :), I have the seeds of empathy for them...I felt what it must feel like when someone out of the kindness of their heart doesn't ask questions and hands you a $20 bill. I felt the frustration of sleeping on a bench. I felt the joy in the simplicity of a tennis racket...and the comfort of carrying it with me...the security of familiar objects...I felt hope to hear someone near me pray...in gratitude..."what am i grateful for? i guess God must exist...." I love theatre. This is why I do what I do. Well, a huge part of it. The Lord can teaches us through the things we are passionate about. This is why He taught in parables. He is a brilliant teacher. He will also teach us through those around us. Why is all of this possible? Because, the Spirit is the teacher, and no matter where we are, or what we are doing, if we invite the Spirit, He can teach us. Wow. I've never made that connection this clearly before. Heavenly Father teaches me so much just when I take the time to write in this blog. If you, as my reader, get 1/2 of what I get from writing this blog, we will all be more enlightened people with desires to change the world, and be changed. Because we are learning to understand this world, our place in it, and its relationship to the life after this.
New friend: Dee. She is thinking of going on a mission. Jess and I had the opportunity to share how our missions changed us....it is so amazing how the Lord teaches us the same things, but in different ways.
Sunday
Truth confirmed: Heavenly Father asks us to teach others what we need the most to learn ourselves. Thursday was my last day at the mtc, and sunday I was asked to teach relief society: lesson 33: missionary work. Coincidence? I think not. I know Heavenly Father gave me the opportunity to learn how to transition from that blessed employment, into member missionary work...to listen to the Spirit...to trust Him....and to do it quickly because the sisters needed this lesson. Thank you, Heavenly Father.
New friend: Kellen, at Sarah's dessert night. Very friendly, and his house has a spiral staircase. I will have one of those in my house one day.
Truth confirmed: I may not actually be homeless, but after playing a homeless person in a musical (called "SHELTER" - come see it in murray theatre this next week :), I have the seeds of empathy for them...I felt what it must feel like when someone out of the kindness of their heart doesn't ask questions and hands you a $20 bill. I felt the frustration of sleeping on a bench. I felt the joy in the simplicity of a tennis racket...and the comfort of carrying it with me...the security of familiar objects...I felt hope to hear someone near me pray...in gratitude..."what am i grateful for? i guess God must exist...." I love theatre. This is why I do what I do. Well, a huge part of it. The Lord can teaches us through the things we are passionate about. This is why He taught in parables. He is a brilliant teacher. He will also teach us through those around us. Why is all of this possible? Because, the Spirit is the teacher, and no matter where we are, or what we are doing, if we invite the Spirit, He can teach us. Wow. I've never made that connection this clearly before. Heavenly Father teaches me so much just when I take the time to write in this blog. If you, as my reader, get 1/2 of what I get from writing this blog, we will all be more enlightened people with desires to change the world, and be changed. Because we are learning to understand this world, our place in it, and its relationship to the life after this.
New friend: Dee. She is thinking of going on a mission. Jess and I had the opportunity to share how our missions changed us....it is so amazing how the Lord teaches us the same things, but in different ways.
Sunday
Truth confirmed: Heavenly Father asks us to teach others what we need the most to learn ourselves. Thursday was my last day at the mtc, and sunday I was asked to teach relief society: lesson 33: missionary work. Coincidence? I think not. I know Heavenly Father gave me the opportunity to learn how to transition from that blessed employment, into member missionary work...to listen to the Spirit...to trust Him....and to do it quickly because the sisters needed this lesson. Thank you, Heavenly Father.
New friend: Kellen, at Sarah's dessert night. Very friendly, and his house has a spiral staircase. I will have one of those in my house one day.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
Truth confirmed: Mothers are heaven sent. My mom drove down from draper to provo (at least 30 minutes) just to bring me cough drops, special cough medicine, ibprofen, gingerale, tropical sherbet, tangelos, emergen-c, and a jug of orange juice. Could I have gone to the store myself and bought this? Yes. Was I grateful to be taken care of in my weak state by my mama? Yes. Also, ask and ye shall receive. I prayed for a missionary opportunity tonight. Did I specifically ask for someone who doesn't know the truth that I know? No....so this opportunity came in the form of a sweet "sister" of mine in Noteworthy. As we were preparing for our show tonight, I had the scriptures open, and she asked me to share a scripture with her. So I did. She asked what it meant. "What do you think?" I responded. She ended up teaching herself, and we both had truth confirmed to us. Power of the spirit and of scriptures. Thank you Heavenly Father.
New friend: Reese. He is my dear friend, Garret's cousin from BYU-I. He is coming to see the Nauvoo pageant this summer. See you soon! :)
New friend: Reese. He is my dear friend, Garret's cousin from BYU-I. He is coming to see the Nauvoo pageant this summer. See you soon! :)
Friday, May 13, 2011
Friday
Truth confirmed: the power of the priesthood, prayer, and faith is very real. Noteworthy (girls a cappella group at BYU that I am in) performed tonight in the top 25 of the Stadium of fire competition. 4 songs before we were up, my cough had reached its' horrific climax...I was coughing more than I was breathing. This is no bueno for normal life, much less to SING and perform. I asked our director's husband for a blessing. He gave me a simple blessing that my cough could at least subside for the one song we had to do. The prayers and faith that supported that blessing were answered. Guzzling hot chamomile and lemon tea, inbetween cough drops and water, I was still coughing up my lungs up until we ran onto the stage. I sang my heart out (a nice break from my lungs :) without even an urge to cough...until I ran off stage and coughed like there was no tomorrow. Thank you Heavenly Father for this miracle. I'll need it again tomorrow. Let me do my part, and go to sleep. :)
New friend: Bowen. 12 years old. played the ukelele and sang...Jack Johnson and Jason Mraz don't have much on this kid. Be still my heart. I "remet" John Allred and Sammy (yes, the owner of Sammy's. :)
Thursday
Truth confirmed: Today was my last day at the MTC. Officially. I clocked out for the last time. I had my exit interview, sealed with tears of sorrow and gratitude. I was blessed with peace to know that life will be ok. :) I will be given other opportunities to serve and build His kingdom. Now, someone else needs the opportunity that I was blessed with for 2 years: to work at the MTC as a teacher of missionaries. I am forever grateful for this life-changing career. case in point: right after i left the mtc, i went to the boys and girls' club to volunteer and lead improv games with these kids. Armeda greeted me with a hug that I thought would never end...thank you Heavenly Father for giving me these sweet kids who need me more than I need to focus on my sadness...(plus I have the Nauvoo pageant to look forward to, and i am teaching the relief society lesson on sunday on MISSIONARY WORK! coincidence? i think not.)
New friend: saw matt again...not new...but new enough....:)
Truth confirmed: the power of the priesthood, prayer, and faith is very real. Noteworthy (girls a cappella group at BYU that I am in) performed tonight in the top 25 of the Stadium of fire competition. 4 songs before we were up, my cough had reached its' horrific climax...I was coughing more than I was breathing. This is no bueno for normal life, much less to SING and perform. I asked our director's husband for a blessing. He gave me a simple blessing that my cough could at least subside for the one song we had to do. The prayers and faith that supported that blessing were answered. Guzzling hot chamomile and lemon tea, inbetween cough drops and water, I was still coughing up my lungs up until we ran onto the stage. I sang my heart out (a nice break from my lungs :) without even an urge to cough...until I ran off stage and coughed like there was no tomorrow. Thank you Heavenly Father for this miracle. I'll need it again tomorrow. Let me do my part, and go to sleep. :)
New friend: Bowen. 12 years old. played the ukelele and sang...Jack Johnson and Jason Mraz don't have much on this kid. Be still my heart. I "remet" John Allred and Sammy (yes, the owner of Sammy's. :)
Thursday
Truth confirmed: Today was my last day at the MTC. Officially. I clocked out for the last time. I had my exit interview, sealed with tears of sorrow and gratitude. I was blessed with peace to know that life will be ok. :) I will be given other opportunities to serve and build His kingdom. Now, someone else needs the opportunity that I was blessed with for 2 years: to work at the MTC as a teacher of missionaries. I am forever grateful for this life-changing career. case in point: right after i left the mtc, i went to the boys and girls' club to volunteer and lead improv games with these kids. Armeda greeted me with a hug that I thought would never end...thank you Heavenly Father for giving me these sweet kids who need me more than I need to focus on my sadness...(plus I have the Nauvoo pageant to look forward to, and i am teaching the relief society lesson on sunday on MISSIONARY WORK! coincidence? i think not.)
New friend: saw matt again...not new...but new enough....:)
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Truth confirmed: persevere. keep playing. you will come off conqueror. Even if for just one play...one hit...one serve...just one good volley could change your perspective. One good save...one good backhand. You will find the balance, between smashing it down or lobbing it far into the air. Oh the things I learned from tennis today. I am loving this new sport. (I should apply these things outside the court..)
New friend: a man at costco whose last name was metz. we are almost related. he was very friendly.
New friend: a man at costco whose last name was metz. we are almost related. he was very friendly.
I believe in love. Even when i cannot feel it the way i yearn to....when i cannot see it on the horizon...and yet, somehow, i know it is there....i want love like carl and ellie....like queen victoria and albert....so love like theirs, I will have...only it will be better, because it will be me and ..... . our love will be unprecedented...and unmatched....unwavering and delighted by all that life offers us, because we will be...us.
truth confirmed: service feels good. joy. so, i suppose i can say i was serving God today. yes, i put away his Christmas decorations that were still out. :) ok, that was just my earthly dad's merry deliquency. being with friends and family is good. if i am surrounded by short men, i should stop labeling them as short. focus on their strengths and how tall they are in stature. spiritual stature...humorous stature...insightful stature...etc. hmmmm...it's a good thing i have recomitted to writing, because i am learning as i write. thank you.
new friend: ben. at taco tuesday. this is our 3rd taco tuesday in a row at el azteca. joy. 1 fish taco. 1 cilantro lime shrimp taco. 1 rice pudding. bites of a chocolate quesadilla. wonderful companionship.
truth confirmed: service feels good. joy. so, i suppose i can say i was serving God today. yes, i put away his Christmas decorations that were still out. :) ok, that was just my earthly dad's merry deliquency. being with friends and family is good. if i am surrounded by short men, i should stop labeling them as short. focus on their strengths and how tall they are in stature. spiritual stature...humorous stature...insightful stature...etc. hmmmm...it's a good thing i have recomitted to writing, because i am learning as i write. thank you.
new friend: ben. at taco tuesday. this is our 3rd taco tuesday in a row at el azteca. joy. 1 fish taco. 1 cilantro lime shrimp taco. 1 rice pudding. bites of a chocolate quesadilla. wonderful companionship.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Ok, I have fallen off of the deep end. There is no way to catch up...I can only move forward. This is actually one of the truths that was confirmed for me today. I live in the past more than I should...and in the future...I must live in the present. Learn from the past, plan for the future, end enjoy NOW! hmmm....thank you Jess for this reminder.
So, update:
I graduated from BYU.
Being "retired" (as my dad says) is overrated.
However, today, I wore my pajamas until 330 pm, and was shockingly productive.
*I played mom: got my brother up, fed, and to seminary by 715 am.
*applied for jobs online to keep me busy until i leave for nauvoo june 10
(potential jobs: hawaiian shaved ice stand, video spokesperson for an educational company, handbag model shoot, internet article writer, and wedding dj. yes. you're welcome. i am rooting for the wedding dj...)
*I sauteed shrimp and made cocktail sauce, while listening to conference talks online.
*I emailed about an audition for a voiceover. they asked for a demo. i don't have one. they sent me 2 paragraphs asking for me to record them and send them as mp3s. uh......ok. google, here i come...teach me....and boy did i learn. I learned that my 2004 mac ibook grandpa computer has an internal microphone that ROCKS! i learned how to record my voice, how to export it to itunes, and then convert it to an mp3. WOW. oh the possibilities this opens up. i am ready to play...
*I played mom again and made alec an afterschool snack/lunch.
*Then i got dressed.
*I went to visit my friend jess. after soup, we made chocolate chip cookies-turned snickerdoodle. mmm. then she invited me to join her at her rehearsal for the new musical: SHELTER. I am now in it. go figure. it opens next friday. WHOOHOOOO. I am excited to be part of it.
I loved today!
Truth confirmed: (another one): Seek and ye shall find. Heavenly Father wants this transition into the "real world" to not be traumatic, so he is sending me opportunities and helping me learn new things (i recently picked up tennis!) so that I can keep giving and growing and building the kingdom. Thank you. I am blessed.
New friend: Matt. He is the one token male in this new musical about women in a homeless shelter. He has a beautiful singing voice. We laughed and spoke in a spanish accent. magic in the making.
I am back. For good this time.
So, update:
I graduated from BYU.
Being "retired" (as my dad says) is overrated.
However, today, I wore my pajamas until 330 pm, and was shockingly productive.
*I played mom: got my brother up, fed, and to seminary by 715 am.
*applied for jobs online to keep me busy until i leave for nauvoo june 10
(potential jobs: hawaiian shaved ice stand, video spokesperson for an educational company, handbag model shoot, internet article writer, and wedding dj. yes. you're welcome. i am rooting for the wedding dj...)
*I sauteed shrimp and made cocktail sauce, while listening to conference talks online.
*I emailed about an audition for a voiceover. they asked for a demo. i don't have one. they sent me 2 paragraphs asking for me to record them and send them as mp3s. uh......ok. google, here i come...teach me....and boy did i learn. I learned that my 2004 mac ibook grandpa computer has an internal microphone that ROCKS! i learned how to record my voice, how to export it to itunes, and then convert it to an mp3. WOW. oh the possibilities this opens up. i am ready to play...
*I played mom again and made alec an afterschool snack/lunch.
*Then i got dressed.
*I went to visit my friend jess. after soup, we made chocolate chip cookies-turned snickerdoodle. mmm. then she invited me to join her at her rehearsal for the new musical: SHELTER. I am now in it. go figure. it opens next friday. WHOOHOOOO. I am excited to be part of it.
I loved today!
Truth confirmed: (another one): Seek and ye shall find. Heavenly Father wants this transition into the "real world" to not be traumatic, so he is sending me opportunities and helping me learn new things (i recently picked up tennis!) so that I can keep giving and growing and building the kingdom. Thank you. I am blessed.
New friend: Matt. He is the one token male in this new musical about women in a homeless shelter. He has a beautiful singing voice. We laughed and spoke in a spanish accent. magic in the making.
I am back. For good this time.
Tuesday, April 5, 2011
i have been a slacker. i am sorry.
today...
TRUTH confirmed: God's power is here on the earth. We can feel it, be an instrument through which it flows, be empowered by it, be inspired by it, and do or see miracles from it. I went to the temple today with a dear sister who got baptized after my mission...when the sweet old man put his hands on my head to give me the Holy Ghost, i felt comforted with the assurance of God's power to help us reach our potential and return to Him. hooray.
today...
TRUTH confirmed: God's power is here on the earth. We can feel it, be an instrument through which it flows, be empowered by it, be inspired by it, and do or see miracles from it. I went to the temple today with a dear sister who got baptized after my mission...when the sweet old man put his hands on my head to give me the Holy Ghost, i felt comforted with the assurance of God's power to help us reach our potential and return to Him. hooray.
Sunday, March 20, 2011
Thursday, March 10, 2011
sunday
Truth confirmed: Heavenly Father wants us to be happy. The power of thinking about the Savior can do wonders for our "happy-factor." Thinking about the Savior invites the Spirit, since it is his duty to witness of the Savior, and the fruits of the Spirit are love, joy, peace, etc. Merry Christmas all year long! (but without the commercial stresses of the season :). Being in nature, that He created, reminds me to think of Him...getting sun-kissed on the sabbath with dear friends as we enjoy the post-stake conference afternoon, is a tender mercy reminder that He wants us to be happy, eternally, and in the smallest or most insignificant of moments. However, I don't know if any moment is insignificant....
(p.s. on the other hand, Elder Snow of the Quorum of the 70 told us today to not overthink the Gospel....it was designed for 8 year olds to understand...this is why we are supposed to be as a child...so don't overthink yourself out of the simplicity and beauty of the truthfulness of this Gospel.)
new friends: Michael. He was asked to give a spontaneous testimony today in sacrament meeting. I knew he was the one I wanted to meet today. I thanked him for his testimony and gave him two roses. Haha, don't jump to conclusions. They gave us one of the HUGE flower arrangements from the conference, and so we gave him a white rose, which when asked, he revealed would be given to one of his sisters. It turns out he has two sisters, so we gave him another rose. oh, lovely meeting.
alex. (member of an a cappella group that performed at a cappella jam with us...)
Truth confirmed: Heavenly Father wants us to be happy. The power of thinking about the Savior can do wonders for our "happy-factor." Thinking about the Savior invites the Spirit, since it is his duty to witness of the Savior, and the fruits of the Spirit are love, joy, peace, etc. Merry Christmas all year long! (but without the commercial stresses of the season :). Being in nature, that He created, reminds me to think of Him...getting sun-kissed on the sabbath with dear friends as we enjoy the post-stake conference afternoon, is a tender mercy reminder that He wants us to be happy, eternally, and in the smallest or most insignificant of moments. However, I don't know if any moment is insignificant....
(p.s. on the other hand, Elder Snow of the Quorum of the 70 told us today to not overthink the Gospel....it was designed for 8 year olds to understand...this is why we are supposed to be as a child...so don't overthink yourself out of the simplicity and beauty of the truthfulness of this Gospel.)
new friends: Michael. He was asked to give a spontaneous testimony today in sacrament meeting. I knew he was the one I wanted to meet today. I thanked him for his testimony and gave him two roses. Haha, don't jump to conclusions. They gave us one of the HUGE flower arrangements from the conference, and so we gave him a white rose, which when asked, he revealed would be given to one of his sisters. It turns out he has two sisters, so we gave him another rose. oh, lovely meeting.
alex. (member of an a cappella group that performed at a cappella jam with us...)
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Tuesday
truth confirmed: I was surprised at what was waiting behind those flood gates, and what triggered their release. It was humbling to be so vulnerable (as this took place in class) and to reveal to myself what stories I want to tell and why.
REnewed friends: aubri and alisha. just felt like visiting them for a moment on the way home. This was short, but sweet.
Monday
truth confirmed:
new friend:
truth confirmed: I was surprised at what was waiting behind those flood gates, and what triggered their release. It was humbling to be so vulnerable (as this took place in class) and to reveal to myself what stories I want to tell and why.
REnewed friends: aubri and alisha. just felt like visiting them for a moment on the way home. This was short, but sweet.
Monday
truth confirmed:
new friend:
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Truth confirmed: I know. I know what it means to know. To know truth. To live truth. To have a testimony and be a witness of things not seen with the physical eyes. There are so many who don't know.
New friend: A new friend of mine came to dinner with me to dinner with me at my Bishop's house. i have decided that "new friend" can also mean actually seeing a "new friend" become more than a new friend. I don't just want a number of new friends...I want friends.
Truth confirmed: I know. I know what it means to know. To know truth. To live truth. To have a testimony and be a witness of things not seen with the physical eyes. There are so many who don't know.
New friend: A new friend of mine came to dinner with me to dinner with me at my Bishop's house. i have decided that "new friend" can also mean actually seeing a "new friend" become more than a new friend. I don't just want a number of new friends...I want friends.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
March 3, 2011
Truth Confirmed: God is the master artist. In nature we can heal...refocus...breathe...live.
This morning I woke up at 730 without an alarm clock after only a few hours of sleep. This ironically was a tender mercy. Dan and I were then able to be on the road by 8 am, heading into the mountains. We could already tell this was going to be a gorgeous day. We drove up to the trail for Stewart Falls. There had been an avalanche recently, so the snow was expansive, deep, and untouched. Snowshoeing paradise. The only tracks were evidence of rabbits and deer. As the snow crunched under our feet, I took in the beauty around me...and knew it was from a loving Father. As my thighs began to ache and my calves burned, the higher we climbed, Dan and I thought: if the pioneers could climb mountains in the snow without snowshoes, by george, we should be able to reach this silly frozen waterfall. Our goal to touch the frozen water became a tribute to those who have gone before, paving the road, packing the snow down, for us to live this truth that we know through the restored Gospel of Jesus Christ. I know that they also were blessed with beauty all around them, and other various tender mercies on their laborious treks to remind them of God's love and awareness of them. We are so blessed.
New Friend: Marcus. He is Paul's friend. Paul is my next door neighbor. We "couple skated" for .5 seconds at 80's ward skating night. Magical.
Truth Confirmed: God is the master artist. In nature we can heal...refocus...breathe...live.
This morning I woke up at 730 without an alarm clock after only a few hours of sleep. This ironically was a tender mercy. Dan and I were then able to be on the road by 8 am, heading into the mountains. We could already tell this was going to be a gorgeous day. We drove up to the trail for Stewart Falls. There had been an avalanche recently, so the snow was expansive, deep, and untouched. Snowshoeing paradise. The only tracks were evidence of rabbits and deer. As the snow crunched under our feet, I took in the beauty around me...and knew it was from a loving Father. As my thighs began to ache and my calves burned, the higher we climbed, Dan and I thought: if the pioneers could climb mountains in the snow without snowshoes, by george, we should be able to reach this silly frozen waterfall. Our goal to touch the frozen water became a tribute to those who have gone before, paving the road, packing the snow down, for us to live this truth that we know through the restored Gospel of Jesus Christ. I know that they also were blessed with beauty all around them, and other various tender mercies on their laborious treks to remind them of God's love and awareness of them. We are so blessed.
New Friend: Marcus. He is Paul's friend. Paul is my next door neighbor. We "couple skated" for .5 seconds at 80's ward skating night. Magical.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
ok, this is the last time i will let time pass me by without writing. promise.
March 3, 2011
Truth confirmed: The word "Remember" is a lifesaver in my life. No wonder this word is all over the Book of Mormon. :) I was asked to remember a few things today. I remember that it feels good to do yoga...to stretch my body... thanks to a warm up in a theatre class today. I remember that I need to pray personally and sincerely and with time. I remember that setting goals is how we can achieve and realize our true potential. I heard once that a definition of hell is having to live with the knowledge of what you could have done, and who you could have become. Goals will help me avoid this. Goals help us see the hand of God, because He helps us achieve them. I was reminded of this as I watched my missionaries (at the MTC, where I teach) set goals and have them come true, that very night. I am grateful for a member of the Godhead, the Holy Ghost, who has the responsibility to confirm truth for us, and to bring all things to our remembrance. I felt both of those blessings today.
New Friend: Brother ___? (i forgot, i am terrible...) at the Mtc. We practiced teaching together in our training meeting.
March 3, 2011
Truth confirmed: The word "Remember" is a lifesaver in my life. No wonder this word is all over the Book of Mormon. :) I was asked to remember a few things today. I remember that it feels good to do yoga...to stretch my body... thanks to a warm up in a theatre class today. I remember that I need to pray personally and sincerely and with time. I remember that setting goals is how we can achieve and realize our true potential. I heard once that a definition of hell is having to live with the knowledge of what you could have done, and who you could have become. Goals will help me avoid this. Goals help us see the hand of God, because He helps us achieve them. I was reminded of this as I watched my missionaries (at the MTC, where I teach) set goals and have them come true, that very night. I am grateful for a member of the Godhead, the Holy Ghost, who has the responsibility to confirm truth for us, and to bring all things to our remembrance. I felt both of those blessings today.
New Friend: Brother ___? (i forgot, i am terrible...) at the Mtc. We practiced teaching together in our training meeting.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Truth confirmed: It is not enough to have one good day. Each day brings its unique challenges and blessings. It takes effort to overcome the natural man, when your day is not going as planned or desired. This is how we grow.
Also, how I really feel, or what I really think, does not always come across through what I do and how I interact with those around me. People may not be reading what I hope that they are from my countenance, my behaviors, and through my choices. I learned this on the stage, and will apply it both there, and offstage.
New Friend: Alex. He is in Beau's "Parade." He was kind and unassuming. He liked my "look-like-full-tattoos on your legs" - tights. I'm sure I will see more of him.
Also, how I really feel, or what I really think, does not always come across through what I do and how I interact with those around me. People may not be reading what I hope that they are from my countenance, my behaviors, and through my choices. I learned this on the stage, and will apply it both there, and offstage.
New Friend: Alex. He is in Beau's "Parade." He was kind and unassuming. He liked my "look-like-full-tattoos on your legs" - tights. I'm sure I will see more of him.
I have been called to repentance. I am sorry for slacking. I am grateful for friends who call me out to help me change and be better. Don't worry, I will make up for each lost day. Let me start with Valentine's day.
TRUTH confirmed: Valentine's day is sometimes called "single's awareness" day. I don't like this. Ok, so let me rephrase. While that may be inevitable, that we recognize whether we are single or in a relationship, it is up to us what we do with that knowledge. Do we drown ourselves in chocolate and sappy chick flicks, or focus on the love we have to give and receive all around us? (You can opt for both...I did. :) Despite the absence of a man at my side to be my valentine, I had the best Valentine's day thus far in my life, I think. I started my day at work with 6 sister missionaries, and we discussed love and charity. I was taught a truth that influenced the rest of my day: the more we invite the Spirit into our lives, the more capacity we have to love and be loved in return. Love is a fruit of the Spirit of the Lord. If we start our day with this invitation, the rest of our day is influenced for the best. I lived this truth yesterday.
I ran into 2 dear friends that I have not seen all school year, and was blessed with unexpected time to spend talking with them. The love I felt was being exchanged in great intensity, producing joy and enlightenment. OH I LOVE IT! I was also blessed to exchange "time valentines" with a few other friends.
New Friend: Mikey. A BYU rugby player. He was so friendly and genuine. I was introduced to 6 of the rugby players by one rugby player in particular: Ray. I ran into Ray today, after only having met him once in the library a month ago. It was delightful to see him today, and become more than just "someone i met." This is what i am hoping now for the people i meet each day. That many will really become friends...or more. :)
TRUTH confirmed: Valentine's day is sometimes called "single's awareness" day. I don't like this. Ok, so let me rephrase. While that may be inevitable, that we recognize whether we are single or in a relationship, it is up to us what we do with that knowledge. Do we drown ourselves in chocolate and sappy chick flicks, or focus on the love we have to give and receive all around us? (You can opt for both...I did. :) Despite the absence of a man at my side to be my valentine, I had the best Valentine's day thus far in my life, I think. I started my day at work with 6 sister missionaries, and we discussed love and charity. I was taught a truth that influenced the rest of my day: the more we invite the Spirit into our lives, the more capacity we have to love and be loved in return. Love is a fruit of the Spirit of the Lord. If we start our day with this invitation, the rest of our day is influenced for the best. I lived this truth yesterday.
I ran into 2 dear friends that I have not seen all school year, and was blessed with unexpected time to spend talking with them. The love I felt was being exchanged in great intensity, producing joy and enlightenment. OH I LOVE IT! I was also blessed to exchange "time valentines" with a few other friends.
New Friend: Mikey. A BYU rugby player. He was so friendly and genuine. I was introduced to 6 of the rugby players by one rugby player in particular: Ray. I ran into Ray today, after only having met him once in the library a month ago. It was delightful to see him today, and become more than just "someone i met." This is what i am hoping now for the people i meet each day. That many will really become friends...or more. :)
Sunday, February 6, 2011
Sunday
Truth confirmed: Heavenly Father knows my heart. He knows what means the most to me...what tugs at my heart strings...what makes them sing...what aches...and he will test that. He will test my heart. Because He loves me. It hurts...it yearns...it will wait...no, it will actively seek to love and be loved...how? and whom?
New Friend: Ryan. I think I have met him before. Now I know his name. :) In my ward.
Saturday:
Truth confirmed: Trust. When you are gaining speed, cruising down an icy terrain, keep your board straight...otherwise you won't have enough momentum to get up the next hill. Don't turn your board in fear that the speed will cause your downfall...embrace it...you'll need it and miss it. The Lord gives us the experiences, momentum, and strength we need to climb the next hill. Embrace it...don't shy away from the opportunities that come your way, even if it is not your normal comfort zone.
New Friend: Tonight I took my 11 year old cousin, Kai, and his friend, Dese snowboarding at Brighton. We hadn't even made it out of the parking lot, when the boys began requesting hand warmers. We made it down the mountain 3 times before the boys decided their faces hurt enough that they wanted to play in the lodge, while I did 2 more runs. I came back to find the boys giggling amidst a gaggle of inflated surgical gloves. Brilliant. So we rode our boards like sleds down to the parking lot, and began to drive toward the exit, when I saw him. My new friend. He had his thumb out...that's when I knew. So we wedged him into back seat with the 3 boards, and shoved both boys into the front seat. Dese climbs into the front seat questioning: "Do you know this man?" "Nope." Now we do. Hans, is a Brighton employee, who skis, and needed a ride to his car at the base of the mountain. The boys invited Hans to play a rousing game of "Aj" (word associations), and promptly renamed him "Toba." Hans responded by naming my cousin, Sally. These names stuck for the duration of descent through the canyon. I wonder if Hans will ever hitchhike again.
Friday:
Friday, February 4, 2011
Thursday
New friend: Bryson and Mitch at the grocery store. They did the work, as i was walking down the aisle: "Let's ask her!" Brilliant. So we discussed trash bags. Delightful. This is the stuff that friendships are made of. Why did we not exchange info? I need to work on this.
Truth: Ask your friends what they need. They may actually tell you, so that you CAN serve them and give to them. It was lovely to spend time with my dear friend.
Wednesday
New Friend: Derrick in the wilk dining room. He asked me to watch his laptop for a minute. So i did. I wondered, if someone really did try to steal his laptop, would i chase them down? leave my laptop? etc. So when he returned and said thank you, i replied that it was no problem, as only 5 people tried to steal it. Most likely due to my victorious defense of his laptop, he offered me some of the banana bread he had just purchased from Sugar and Spice. I must admit, for "store bought" it was delicious. We bonded over banana bread.
Truth: Pray more specifically. We are placed in paths and surrounded by friends with whom we can learn from and learn with. I had a very animated and emotionally charged conversation with a dear friend in the HFAC. We came to the conclusion that we will pray specifically: to meet men that will act on faith, rather than fear, and not be intimidated, but rather able to see the potential that we have, that they have, and that we have together, even just for a date. Here we go.
Tuesday
New friend: Chris, who helped with my photo shoot that my cousin Jmo invited me to be part of.
Truth: Giving time to those you love is the best birthday gift. Belgian waffle party for a 51st birthday, Dad!
New friend: Bryson and Mitch at the grocery store. They did the work, as i was walking down the aisle: "Let's ask her!" Brilliant. So we discussed trash bags. Delightful. This is the stuff that friendships are made of. Why did we not exchange info? I need to work on this.
Truth: Ask your friends what they need. They may actually tell you, so that you CAN serve them and give to them. It was lovely to spend time with my dear friend.
Wednesday
New Friend: Derrick in the wilk dining room. He asked me to watch his laptop for a minute. So i did. I wondered, if someone really did try to steal his laptop, would i chase them down? leave my laptop? etc. So when he returned and said thank you, i replied that it was no problem, as only 5 people tried to steal it. Most likely due to my victorious defense of his laptop, he offered me some of the banana bread he had just purchased from Sugar and Spice. I must admit, for "store bought" it was delicious. We bonded over banana bread.
Truth: Pray more specifically. We are placed in paths and surrounded by friends with whom we can learn from and learn with. I had a very animated and emotionally charged conversation with a dear friend in the HFAC. We came to the conclusion that we will pray specifically: to meet men that will act on faith, rather than fear, and not be intimidated, but rather able to see the potential that we have, that they have, and that we have together, even just for a date. Here we go.
Tuesday
New friend: Chris, who helped with my photo shoot that my cousin Jmo invited me to be part of.
Truth: Giving time to those you love is the best birthday gift. Belgian waffle party for a 51st birthday, Dad!
Monday, January 31, 2011
Monday
new friend: ben at mtc
Truth: risk....do something you are afraid of...you will get stronger. it is a choice to risk...to overcome the natural man. Fear seems to be more natural than faith...choose, and eventually that natural instinct will swith. Faith will become the natural.
sunday
new friend: jon (husband of harp player)
truth:
Saturday
new friend: vocal union members (one who sat in front row and cheered for me), dillon (audience member)
friday
new friend: jordan? jonathon? jp, max
thursday
new friend:
new friend: ben at mtc
Truth: risk....do something you are afraid of...you will get stronger. it is a choice to risk...to overcome the natural man. Fear seems to be more natural than faith...choose, and eventually that natural instinct will swith. Faith will become the natural.
sunday
new friend: jon (husband of harp player)
truth:
Saturday
new friend: vocal union members (one who sat in front row and cheered for me), dillon (audience member)
friday
new friend: jordan? jonathon? jp, max
thursday
new friend:
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Wednesday
Truth confirmed: The Lord is the best arranger of the sheet music of our lives. I don't know yet what the song is going to sound like when it is performed, but I know He is starting to put the pieces together. I love running into my friends...the conversations we have...to inspire each other...sustain each other...Magarin, Ben, Spencer, Alex, etc.
New Friends: Mel and I went to breakfast at Magleby's. Mmmm...buttermilk syrup. She came with her friend, Brian. Now Brian is my friend, who taught me to hug boys with arms over their shoulders. Love it. I also met Ben's roommate Austin who offered to make me spaghetti during our rehearsal at their house. I love new friends.
Tuesday
Truth confirmed: Don't skip class, or you may miss a chance to learn to break dance and crump in your TMA 301 class. Our responsibilities or obligations can prove very fruitful. :)
New Friends: I met Melanie's date at Spoon Me. Trent? Yikes. This friendship is still surface, clearly. Not my proudest new friend day.
Monday
truth confirmed: We have no idea how many unhidden talents we have within us. We need to explore...discover...play...tonight I found I have a talent for scripture charades. I dominate. :)
New Friend: Brock is a friend of Spencer's. He works security in the library. It turns out we'd been at a Tucano's lunch together before. Officially friends at last. :)
Truth confirmed: The Lord is the best arranger of the sheet music of our lives. I don't know yet what the song is going to sound like when it is performed, but I know He is starting to put the pieces together. I love running into my friends...the conversations we have...to inspire each other...sustain each other...Magarin, Ben, Spencer, Alex, etc.
New Friends: Mel and I went to breakfast at Magleby's. Mmmm...buttermilk syrup. She came with her friend, Brian. Now Brian is my friend, who taught me to hug boys with arms over their shoulders. Love it. I also met Ben's roommate Austin who offered to make me spaghetti during our rehearsal at their house. I love new friends.
Tuesday
Truth confirmed: Don't skip class, or you may miss a chance to learn to break dance and crump in your TMA 301 class. Our responsibilities or obligations can prove very fruitful. :)
New Friends: I met Melanie's date at Spoon Me. Trent? Yikes. This friendship is still surface, clearly. Not my proudest new friend day.
Monday
truth confirmed: We have no idea how many unhidden talents we have within us. We need to explore...discover...play...tonight I found I have a talent for scripture charades. I dominate. :)
New Friend: Brock is a friend of Spencer's. He works security in the library. It turns out we'd been at a Tucano's lunch together before. Officially friends at last. :)
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Sunday
truth confirmed: we can use our strengths to make our weaknesses stronger. We need to trust our Heavenly Father and where he needs us and what he needs us to do. My calling was changed today. I imagine this change is going to change me.
New friend: John introduced himself to me in the hall today during church. He is a fellow a cappella singer. Josh= my new hometeacher. I went to my dear friend's dinner party where we ate our varied cultural foods, and mingled with my new friends. I reconnected with a few friends (Chris, Patrick, and Clay), and met a few new: "I like you but I don't even know you!" is how Derrick became my friend. It turns out he is currently in a show with my room mate. Small world. Then I went to Mel's game night where I met Ryan (young ambassadors-we bonded over music) and Rex. Rex, the renaissance man and I shared in our passions. Then, as Fredo and Sasha, we cut Mel's bangs. Brilliant.
truth confirmed: we can use our strengths to make our weaknesses stronger. We need to trust our Heavenly Father and where he needs us and what he needs us to do. My calling was changed today. I imagine this change is going to change me.
New friend: John introduced himself to me in the hall today during church. He is a fellow a cappella singer. Josh= my new hometeacher. I went to my dear friend's dinner party where we ate our varied cultural foods, and mingled with my new friends. I reconnected with a few friends (Chris, Patrick, and Clay), and met a few new: "I like you but I don't even know you!" is how Derrick became my friend. It turns out he is currently in a show with my room mate. Small world. Then I went to Mel's game night where I met Ryan (young ambassadors-we bonded over music) and Rex. Rex, the renaissance man and I shared in our passions. Then, as Fredo and Sasha, we cut Mel's bangs. Brilliant.
Saturday
Truth confirmed: So many truths confirmed. I am not alone (this seems to be a theme in my life right now...). There are so many people who love and are passionate about the truth that has been restored through a living prophet of God. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints was restored through Joseph Smith, and embraces all truth in this world, because it has the fullness. I know that he was called of God. I know that we still have a prophet today. I know that Christ is at the head of this church. I know that if we have faith, we can do the hardest of things. I also had it confirmed that when things are good, and pointing us to our Savior, Satan is not far away. I recognized how he works on me in a specific way. This is good, so that I can fortify my weak spots against him. I know that we have been given gifts in this life to bless our lives, the lives of those around us, and to build the kingdom of God. I need to recognize these gifts and give more time to develop them. This is just a taste of what I was taught today. Good thing learning is an eternal principle...
New friend: I made many new friends at the Nauvoo Pageant callbacks. One new friend, Paul, knows my friend Henry, as they were the same major at UVU: hospital management. Another new friend, Logan, and I have 93 mutual friends on facebook. He told me that facebook has been suggesting we become friends for a long time, and that he first saw me perform as Patsy Cline 2 years ago and was very complimentary. :) It was nice. So now we are friends! It was only a matter of time.
Friday (the last post was thursday night, late enough to qualify as friday...:)
Truth confirmed: Ask and ye shall receive. Remember how I wrote in my post yesterday that I wanted someone to meet me for once? Well, I asked, and I received. This is evident in my new friend. Now, I would love for that to happen in person, but I definately got what I asked for. Wow. I have a Heavenly Father who loves me.
New friends: Nathan. Online. Does this count? Well, when I don't meet someone in person, I say it does. Especially a message as sincere as this:
"Hey,
Names Nathan, and I'm just hoping I don't say something foolish. I'm just trying to make sure I make this a worthwhile message after reading everything you put into your profile.
I'm never sure what to say in these anyway. I'm living in Provo, going to BYU for a masters degree, and not sure where life will take me when I'm finished.
I could ask plenty of questions, but the one in my mind right now is, are you interested in making a new friend?
Have a great weekend,
Nathan" . we have gone back and forth with messages 10 times now. :) delightful dialogue really.
Truth confirmed: So many truths confirmed. I am not alone (this seems to be a theme in my life right now...). There are so many people who love and are passionate about the truth that has been restored through a living prophet of God. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints was restored through Joseph Smith, and embraces all truth in this world, because it has the fullness. I know that he was called of God. I know that we still have a prophet today. I know that Christ is at the head of this church. I know that if we have faith, we can do the hardest of things. I also had it confirmed that when things are good, and pointing us to our Savior, Satan is not far away. I recognized how he works on me in a specific way. This is good, so that I can fortify my weak spots against him. I know that we have been given gifts in this life to bless our lives, the lives of those around us, and to build the kingdom of God. I need to recognize these gifts and give more time to develop them. This is just a taste of what I was taught today. Good thing learning is an eternal principle...
New friend: I made many new friends at the Nauvoo Pageant callbacks. One new friend, Paul, knows my friend Henry, as they were the same major at UVU: hospital management. Another new friend, Logan, and I have 93 mutual friends on facebook. He told me that facebook has been suggesting we become friends for a long time, and that he first saw me perform as Patsy Cline 2 years ago and was very complimentary. :) It was nice. So now we are friends! It was only a matter of time.
Friday (the last post was thursday night, late enough to qualify as friday...:)
Truth confirmed: Ask and ye shall receive. Remember how I wrote in my post yesterday that I wanted someone to meet me for once? Well, I asked, and I received. This is evident in my new friend. Now, I would love for that to happen in person, but I definately got what I asked for. Wow. I have a Heavenly Father who loves me.
New friends: Nathan. Online. Does this count? Well, when I don't meet someone in person, I say it does. Especially a message as sincere as this:
"Hey,
Names Nathan, and I'm just hoping I don't say something foolish. I'm just trying to make sure I make this a worthwhile message after reading everything you put into your profile.
I'm never sure what to say in these anyway. I'm living in Provo, going to BYU for a masters degree, and not sure where life will take me when I'm finished.
I could ask plenty of questions, but the one in my mind right now is, are you interested in making a new friend?
Have a great weekend,
Nathan" . we have gone back and forth with messages 10 times now. :) delightful dialogue really.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Quite the day.
Truth confirmed: "You will be a good actress...because you have the Spirit and the Gospel." sister Lee, my sister missionary student from Hong Kong told me this today. I know this is true. No matter what we choose to do in this life, which career path we embark on, which passions we pursue, etc. we will INDEFINITELY be better if we have the Spirit of the Lord and the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
New friends: Todd. Todd is a soon-to-be-Harley mechanic who is biding his time as a Lexus mechanic. When I realized that I needed to get back to BYU before my car would be done getting worked on at Lexus in Lindon, the nice Lexus people told me they'd drive me down to Provo. So Todd, the mechanic from the garage, directed me to a seafoam blue Lexus SUV, and drove me to school. "thanks, dad!" I felt like a 5 year old. He was super chill and nice and easy to talk to. I think it helped that I focused the conversation on what he loved: harley's. I was reminded how much I want a motorcycle. Not a harley though, most likely, although I didn't think it necessary to tell my new friend, Todd that. :) (I also ran into a long-lost friend who works at Lexus: Jon. We met on halloween 2 years ago, when he was in charge of a pie-eating contest at a barn dance that i WON! it was nice to see him again.) I perhaps had a slight breakdown tonight. It is only day 20 of this goal to meet a new friend each day...and already I wish someone would try to meet me instead of the other way around. This can be tiring. :)
Truth confirmed: "You will be a good actress...because you have the Spirit and the Gospel." sister Lee, my sister missionary student from Hong Kong told me this today. I know this is true. No matter what we choose to do in this life, which career path we embark on, which passions we pursue, etc. we will INDEFINITELY be better if we have the Spirit of the Lord and the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
New friends: Todd. Todd is a soon-to-be-Harley mechanic who is biding his time as a Lexus mechanic. When I realized that I needed to get back to BYU before my car would be done getting worked on at Lexus in Lindon, the nice Lexus people told me they'd drive me down to Provo. So Todd, the mechanic from the garage, directed me to a seafoam blue Lexus SUV, and drove me to school. "thanks, dad!" I felt like a 5 year old. He was super chill and nice and easy to talk to. I think it helped that I focused the conversation on what he loved: harley's. I was reminded how much I want a motorcycle. Not a harley though, most likely, although I didn't think it necessary to tell my new friend, Todd that. :) (I also ran into a long-lost friend who works at Lexus: Jon. We met on halloween 2 years ago, when he was in charge of a pie-eating contest at a barn dance that i WON! it was nice to see him again.) I perhaps had a slight breakdown tonight. It is only day 20 of this goal to meet a new friend each day...and already I wish someone would try to meet me instead of the other way around. This can be tiring. :)
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Wednesday
Truth Confirmed: Heavenly Father can help magnify or stretch our time. This happened all day today. I was able to memorize my monologue for auditions' class super quickly. Then in that class, the teacher gave us a good chunk of time so that I could finish memorizing my absurdist scene for "advanced acting." Then we got out of advanced acting 1/2 hour early so I could get things ready for my mask club. Then my 1st "August Rush" rehearsal went so well, we ended 25 minutes early. Then I BOOOKED it to Sakura. By the clock, I didn't make it in time to use the buy 1 get 1 free ticket that day. But once again, time seemed to be overridden, and I got to eat my philidelphia roll and crystal shrimp roll for one delicious price.
New friends: Today was my first day of "world religions." ( i added the class at 11:45 pm the night of the add/drop deadline :). Josh, became my friend out of necessity, as he filled me on the gems of Hinuism that I needed to know for the quiz. I think Josh will stay my friend, out of the bond made today. Then after the Noteworthy performance at institute on campus, I booked it to Sakura to get my anxiously anticipated buy 1 get 1 free sushi! Still in my Noteworthy getup, my new friend, Matt said he came to our tahitian noni concert and that we were also in D&C together last year. Wow. He said he remembered me because I was always late. Haha, this is true, however, he also remembered where I served my mission. Good memory? creepy? I'll go with good memory. Then as I sat at the sushi bar, the sushi chef kept me company. My new sushi chef friend is Danz. He is a speedy sushi maker, a delightful conversationalist, and has an easy laughter. What a day!
Tuesday
Truth Confirmed: No matter what the activity, giving of your time will always make a difference to someone. I wanted to see a friend before she went back home due to a lingering concussion, and they ended up being 1/2 hour late to the restaurant, which meant I had only 20 minutes to be with her. There was no time for me to order food, but I realized that just being there for a few minutes let her know that she was loved. It's the little things.
New friends: As I sat in the library in my nook, just a few chairs from sleeping beauty (Dan whom I met days ago), I became fascinated with the two guys in chairs near me. I let my laughter carry me into their conversation, as they revealed what free ads were on KSL, such as opened but barely used baby bottle formula, and dragon waterpots. Brilliant. Ben, Chad, and Brandon. thank you for an entertaining library break.
Monday
Truth confirmed &
New Friends: I met a number of great people on the lift at Brighton resort. My favorite was a cute family: mom, dad, and young son. They were super chill and just stoked to be on the mountain. They were born and raised in Utah, but are not members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. They made a great observation, that things have gotten better in Utah as far as the diversity and the acceptance of that diversity goes. They feel less judged or isolated. I hope that all of us, no matter what we believe, or how we live, can find common ground through respect for those around us.
Sunday
Truth confirmed: I had a conversation with my brother. Good? Yes. Sad? Yes. No matter who we are, we need to find truth for ourselves. We need to let the truth that we find influence our actions. Believing is not enough. Believing in Santa doesn't mean he will bring you presents. "You better be good for goodness sake." Believing in God doesn't mean He will shower you with success and fortunes, you must show Him your faith through your actions. And even then, He will test your faith. :) This life is quite the adventure...with the final destination, a heavenly home with a Father who misses us greatly.
New friends: I texted with a friend I met online: Elijah. He is wise, thoughtful, loves music and his family.
Saturday
Truth confirmed: Family is not just biological. I know that Heavenly Father has given me friends to stand by me, believe with me, and live with me what we believe, to sustain and buouy me up when it gets lonely in my biological family.
New friends: At the Noteworthy retreat we had a few visitors that watched us perform. I think we will see them again soon!
Truth Confirmed: Heavenly Father can help magnify or stretch our time. This happened all day today. I was able to memorize my monologue for auditions' class super quickly. Then in that class, the teacher gave us a good chunk of time so that I could finish memorizing my absurdist scene for "advanced acting." Then we got out of advanced acting 1/2 hour early so I could get things ready for my mask club. Then my 1st "August Rush" rehearsal went so well, we ended 25 minutes early. Then I BOOOKED it to Sakura. By the clock, I didn't make it in time to use the buy 1 get 1 free ticket that day. But once again, time seemed to be overridden, and I got to eat my philidelphia roll and crystal shrimp roll for one delicious price.
New friends: Today was my first day of "world religions." ( i added the class at 11:45 pm the night of the add/drop deadline :). Josh, became my friend out of necessity, as he filled me on the gems of Hinuism that I needed to know for the quiz. I think Josh will stay my friend, out of the bond made today. Then after the Noteworthy performance at institute on campus, I booked it to Sakura to get my anxiously anticipated buy 1 get 1 free sushi! Still in my Noteworthy getup, my new friend, Matt said he came to our tahitian noni concert and that we were also in D&C together last year. Wow. He said he remembered me because I was always late. Haha, this is true, however, he also remembered where I served my mission. Good memory? creepy? I'll go with good memory. Then as I sat at the sushi bar, the sushi chef kept me company. My new sushi chef friend is Danz. He is a speedy sushi maker, a delightful conversationalist, and has an easy laughter. What a day!
Tuesday
Truth Confirmed: No matter what the activity, giving of your time will always make a difference to someone. I wanted to see a friend before she went back home due to a lingering concussion, and they ended up being 1/2 hour late to the restaurant, which meant I had only 20 minutes to be with her. There was no time for me to order food, but I realized that just being there for a few minutes let her know that she was loved. It's the little things.
New friends: As I sat in the library in my nook, just a few chairs from sleeping beauty (Dan whom I met days ago), I became fascinated with the two guys in chairs near me. I let my laughter carry me into their conversation, as they revealed what free ads were on KSL, such as opened but barely used baby bottle formula, and dragon waterpots. Brilliant. Ben, Chad, and Brandon. thank you for an entertaining library break.
Monday
Truth confirmed &
New Friends: I met a number of great people on the lift at Brighton resort. My favorite was a cute family: mom, dad, and young son. They were super chill and just stoked to be on the mountain. They were born and raised in Utah, but are not members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. They made a great observation, that things have gotten better in Utah as far as the diversity and the acceptance of that diversity goes. They feel less judged or isolated. I hope that all of us, no matter what we believe, or how we live, can find common ground through respect for those around us.
Sunday
Truth confirmed: I had a conversation with my brother. Good? Yes. Sad? Yes. No matter who we are, we need to find truth for ourselves. We need to let the truth that we find influence our actions. Believing is not enough. Believing in Santa doesn't mean he will bring you presents. "You better be good for goodness sake." Believing in God doesn't mean He will shower you with success and fortunes, you must show Him your faith through your actions. And even then, He will test your faith. :) This life is quite the adventure...with the final destination, a heavenly home with a Father who misses us greatly.
New friends: I texted with a friend I met online: Elijah. He is wise, thoughtful, loves music and his family.
Saturday
Truth confirmed: Family is not just biological. I know that Heavenly Father has given me friends to stand by me, believe with me, and live with me what we believe, to sustain and buouy me up when it gets lonely in my biological family.
New friends: At the Noteworthy retreat we had a few visitors that watched us perform. I think we will see them again soon!
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Friday:
Truth confirmed: The Lord can use our habits to bring to pass our righteous desires. I wanted to go to the temple on my way home from a dear friends' house this morning, after an impromptu sleepover last night. Still in my pjs, I looked in my backseat, and due to the fact that i live out of my car, I had a skirt in the back seat! and high heels! brilliant. add my leather jacket over my casual gray shirt, and voila, I am temple ready. Not to mention my temple recommend was also in the car. Thanks, Heavenly Father.
New friend: Jared. He is new in my ward. We bonded over the topic of barbecue. I also finally met and went on a date with Chris, who I met on facebook January 2. :) Big day.
Truth confirmed: The Lord can use our habits to bring to pass our righteous desires. I wanted to go to the temple on my way home from a dear friends' house this morning, after an impromptu sleepover last night. Still in my pjs, I looked in my backseat, and due to the fact that i live out of my car, I had a skirt in the back seat! and high heels! brilliant. add my leather jacket over my casual gray shirt, and voila, I am temple ready. Not to mention my temple recommend was also in the car. Thanks, Heavenly Father.
New friend: Jared. He is new in my ward. We bonded over the topic of barbecue. I also finally met and went on a date with Chris, who I met on facebook January 2. :) Big day.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Wow. I'm behind. Let's start with today and move backwards.
Truth confirmed: When you don't get what you want, you still get what the Lord wants and needs. I wanted to go to FHE at the Bishop's, however, I missed the ride due to work, and was bummed, but then I found out my cousin was sick, and was able to bring her citrus, chocolate, emergen-c, a storybook, photos, and playing cards. I love spending time with her.
New Friends: Sean, Sean, John, and Scott
Today, I got home by 10 pm and realized I still had not met anyone new. blast. so i fell to my default: scar stories.
this goes back to my freshman year: my roommates and i filmed boys telling us their best scar stories, in order to find dates for the girls' preference dance....years later, still so entertaining! So i knocked on a boys' apartment in the other ward of chatam town, and all 4 boys were lounging in the living room. Bring on the scar stories: stories of men trying to impress women, skateboarding scars, boxcutting scars, and emotional scars. I then proceeded to tell Sean, Sean, John, and Scott that I lived in apartment 20 on the opposite back deck. This is not true. I live in 22. I wasn't even trying to keep them away! I just blurted out that number. Wow. (P.s. just please say their names out loud. joy. poor scott.)
SUNDAY
Truth Confirmed: We all know deep down what we SHOULD be doing, sometimes we just need a a little reminder to jog our memory. text from an investigator from my mission after we caught up for just a few minutes before getting cut off from eachother: "I am going to start going to your church again. There is something there that resonates with me there that is missing in teh church I have been going to. Does that make any sense? Anyway I love you and am so happy to hear your future plans....It's amazing what we can do when we don't fight Heavenly Father. I know a little about that. :)......." Wow. She KNOWS. It is within each of us, to know these basic truths.
also, if we are willing to listen, the Lord can and will teach us sooooooo much. I felt personally tutored during church.
New friend: Scott. New guy in my ward. We both lived in heritage halls in 04/05. Small world. He made a very insightful comment in sunday school.
SATURDAY
Truth confirmed: Sleeping in is a tender mercy.
New Friend: Mark, mel's friend who I went bowling with.
FRIDAY
Truth confirmed: Support is all around me.
New friend: Adam, one of our adopted Noteworthy "mother's" sons that she wants us to hook up with. Precious!
Truth confirmed: When you don't get what you want, you still get what the Lord wants and needs. I wanted to go to FHE at the Bishop's, however, I missed the ride due to work, and was bummed, but then I found out my cousin was sick, and was able to bring her citrus, chocolate, emergen-c, a storybook, photos, and playing cards. I love spending time with her.
New Friends: Sean, Sean, John, and Scott
Today, I got home by 10 pm and realized I still had not met anyone new. blast. so i fell to my default: scar stories.
this goes back to my freshman year: my roommates and i filmed boys telling us their best scar stories, in order to find dates for the girls' preference dance....years later, still so entertaining! So i knocked on a boys' apartment in the other ward of chatam town, and all 4 boys were lounging in the living room. Bring on the scar stories: stories of men trying to impress women, skateboarding scars, boxcutting scars, and emotional scars. I then proceeded to tell Sean, Sean, John, and Scott that I lived in apartment 20 on the opposite back deck. This is not true. I live in 22. I wasn't even trying to keep them away! I just blurted out that number. Wow. (P.s. just please say their names out loud. joy. poor scott.)
SUNDAY
Truth Confirmed: We all know deep down what we SHOULD be doing, sometimes we just need a a little reminder to jog our memory. text from an investigator from my mission after we caught up for just a few minutes before getting cut off from eachother: "I am going to start going to your church again. There is something there that resonates with me there that is missing in teh church I have been going to. Does that make any sense? Anyway I love you and am so happy to hear your future plans....It's amazing what we can do when we don't fight Heavenly Father. I know a little about that. :)......." Wow. She KNOWS. It is within each of us, to know these basic truths.
also, if we are willing to listen, the Lord can and will teach us sooooooo much. I felt personally tutored during church.
New friend: Scott. New guy in my ward. We both lived in heritage halls in 04/05. Small world. He made a very insightful comment in sunday school.
SATURDAY
Truth confirmed: Sleeping in is a tender mercy.
New Friend: Mark, mel's friend who I went bowling with.
FRIDAY
Truth confirmed: Support is all around me.
New friend: Adam, one of our adopted Noteworthy "mother's" sons that she wants us to hook up with. Precious!
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Today I slept in. 9 hours. Wow. Went on a run and caught up with my sister. Sang in the Wilkinson Center between the bookstore and the cougar eat: it was so fun! It was our unofficial debut of "paparrazi." Tonight at noteworthy rehearsal, i got there late due to my dear struggling but rock star sisters at the mtc, and when i walked in they sang happy birthday to me! a little late...but that made it a glorious surprise! they even brought donuts, which i don't usually eat, but the occasion called for it. :) I love those girls.
Truth Confirmed:If others think of you as a spiritual leader, then you should probably listen to the Spirit more often. I didn't act on inspiration today. That is painful to realize. I am grateful for another who did today, dear Mckenzie, so that we can help a dear sister.
New Friend: Phil, a fellow teacher at the MTC. He teaches on my floor! He went out of his way to meet me...so friendly.
WEDNESDAY, 1.5.11
Truth confirmed: we cross paths with people in our lives by design, not by accident.
New Friend: Daysha, the one person in my auditions class that I didn't know already. yay. She seems wonderful.
Truth Confirmed:If others think of you as a spiritual leader, then you should probably listen to the Spirit more often. I didn't act on inspiration today. That is painful to realize. I am grateful for another who did today, dear Mckenzie, so that we can help a dear sister.
New Friend: Phil, a fellow teacher at the MTC. He teaches on my floor! He went out of his way to meet me...so friendly.
WEDNESDAY, 1.5.11
Truth confirmed: we cross paths with people in our lives by design, not by accident.
New Friend: Daysha, the one person in my auditions class that I didn't know already. yay. She seems wonderful.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Last "first day" of BYU! wow. unbelievable. and yet, still so normal: I slept in and was 15 minutes late to my first class. Then I was 20 minutes late to my other class due to my girlish notion to talk to the cute boy napping beside me in the library. I went on a refreshing and revitalizing run in the snow. Aaah, shock those lungs. I am excited for the semester. I am going to be pushed, stretched, pulled, frazzled, stressed, and most importantly: become better.
Truth confirmed: you CAN make new friends, in maybe new ways than you ever have before.
New friend: (yes, sleeping beauty from the library.) After he woke up and went to the bathroom, i gave a note to his friend to give to him: "Hi. I'm kristen. I was sitting next to you. I am trying to meet new people. so hi! 801-793-0718". Here is a teaser of our text conversation:
His 1st text:
"So you are meeting new people huh. You know technically we didn't meet. So you can't count me yet."
me:
"Ah, touche. Well, you were sleeping, and I was mostly just jealous that I had to stay awake. So by 'yet' do you mean that I can count you later?"
him:
"First of all you chose to stay awake. No one forced you. Second of all that where i am going to be every tues and thurs taking my naps. so if you are there...."
me:
"Well as it happens those chairs are my chosen nook as well. Sweet dreams, stranger."
him:
"ah yes i am a stranger to you. I have the upper hand on you kristen. for i know your name.
me:
"But with knowledge comes great responsibility..."
him:
"well ben parker you may be wise beyond your years."
me:
"So does that mean i have to kiss you upside down to find out your identity?"
him:
"Hmmm...if i said yes what would you say?"
.........the conversation went on for quite some time. Let's just say, I found out his identity. My new friend's name is Daniel.
Truth confirmed: you CAN make new friends, in maybe new ways than you ever have before.
New friend: (yes, sleeping beauty from the library.) After he woke up and went to the bathroom, i gave a note to his friend to give to him: "Hi. I'm kristen. I was sitting next to you. I am trying to meet new people. so hi! 801-793-0718". Here is a teaser of our text conversation:
His 1st text:
"So you are meeting new people huh. You know technically we didn't meet. So you can't count me yet."
me:
"Ah, touche. Well, you were sleeping, and I was mostly just jealous that I had to stay awake. So by 'yet' do you mean that I can count you later?"
him:
"First of all you chose to stay awake. No one forced you. Second of all that where i am going to be every tues and thurs taking my naps. so if you are there...."
me:
"Well as it happens those chairs are my chosen nook as well. Sweet dreams, stranger."
him:
"ah yes i am a stranger to you. I have the upper hand on you kristen. for i know your name.
me:
"But with knowledge comes great responsibility..."
him:
"well ben parker you may be wise beyond your years."
me:
"So does that mean i have to kiss you upside down to find out your identity?"
him:
"Hmmm...if i said yes what would you say?"
.........the conversation went on for quite some time. Let's just say, I found out his identity. My new friend's name is Daniel.
Monday, January 3, 2011
Tonight my roommate's boyfriend and I went on a late night journey to go to a back-to-school party. Lead the way, Frodo. He was dubbed such after he exclaimed, "stick!" as he picked up what must have been a branch from one of THE redwoods. I immediately felt safer as he wielded this instrument. Carefully finding our footing amidst the nooks and crannies of ice and snow, we traversed the 5 blocks...until I checked the address. 460 South, not north. 8 more blocks. Let's go! As we peered through the large window at the designated party place, it was clear the party was over. Our trek had taken far longer than imagined. Debating... we've come this far....then we were sighted. No turning back.
In we go to an inevitably awkward and potentially delightful situation. True on both accounts. As I reconnected with my long lost friend whose party this was, Dan, a door opened. I am directing an adaptation of the film, "August Rush" this semester, and have been worrying about casting actors who are musically gifted on guitar, especially. It turns out that Dan plays guitar, sings, and more importantly, has been recently listening to "August Rush," with the goal to learn "dueling guitars," one of the most important scenes/performances in the film. Coincidence? I think not. Then he went to bed...awkward to be left with the random other 3 guys?...of course. Embrace it. We ended up talking about everything and anything: The Crucible, Hebrew translations, Salem witch encounters, cherries, acting, favorite classes, and how living in missouri i could have legally been killed at any time until recently, due to my Mormon character.
As they discovered my mature age, my new friends confirmed that I can join their "club." This may or may not be the beginning of new friendships, or just a random story on my quest for truth.
After our 1/2 hour trek home, I was able to spend time with a friend who I have missed dearly this last year. As we spoke on the couch, our smiles grew bigger with the understanding of how we have been put in each other's lives to fulfill our potential and follow our inspired desires. I may be following her to Switzerland to perform, travel, learn french, and use drama therapy.
Truth confirmed: "When a person really desires something, all the universe conspires to help that person to realize his dream." The Alchemist (Paulo Coelho). This is just the beginning.
Dan's truth confirmed: While talking to a friend, he had it confirmed to him that he is
heading in a good direction...both with his girlfriend, and in life.
*When you feel impressed to do something that may seem to be a
benign action, do it. It may lead to something far greater than you
imagined.
Friend(s): Zacchary, aka Cherry, Brad, Bryce. My aforementioned new "club" friends. We have potential plans to change the world. Or just watch "What about Bob" while eating cherries and hot dogs.
In we go to an inevitably awkward and potentially delightful situation. True on both accounts. As I reconnected with my long lost friend whose party this was, Dan, a door opened. I am directing an adaptation of the film, "August Rush" this semester, and have been worrying about casting actors who are musically gifted on guitar, especially. It turns out that Dan plays guitar, sings, and more importantly, has been recently listening to "August Rush," with the goal to learn "dueling guitars," one of the most important scenes/performances in the film. Coincidence? I think not. Then he went to bed...awkward to be left with the random other 3 guys?...of course. Embrace it. We ended up talking about everything and anything: The Crucible, Hebrew translations, Salem witch encounters, cherries, acting, favorite classes, and how living in missouri i could have legally been killed at any time until recently, due to my Mormon character.
As they discovered my mature age, my new friends confirmed that I can join their "club." This may or may not be the beginning of new friendships, or just a random story on my quest for truth.
After our 1/2 hour trek home, I was able to spend time with a friend who I have missed dearly this last year. As we spoke on the couch, our smiles grew bigger with the understanding of how we have been put in each other's lives to fulfill our potential and follow our inspired desires. I may be following her to Switzerland to perform, travel, learn french, and use drama therapy.
Truth confirmed: "When a person really desires something, all the universe conspires to help that person to realize his dream." The Alchemist (Paulo Coelho). This is just the beginning.
Dan's truth confirmed: While talking to a friend, he had it confirmed to him that he is
heading in a good direction...both with his girlfriend, and in life.
*When you feel impressed to do something that may seem to be a
benign action, do it. It may lead to something far greater than you
imagined.
Friend(s): Zacchary, aka Cherry, Brad, Bryce. My aforementioned new "club" friends. We have potential plans to change the world. Or just watch "What about Bob" while eating cherries and hot dogs.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Today I went for a stroll up the mountain to get some fresh winter air. I couldn't put my book down, so I read as I walked. Belle? Quite.
Truth confirmed: No matter what goals we set for the new year, or how consistent we are in keeping them, inevitably we are going to change this year. Obstacles, challenges, adventures, successes, failures, and relationships will shape and change who we are and who we want to be. What new year's resolutions does the Lord have in store for me?
New friend: Chris. I don't know a ton about him yet. He found me on facebook through my sister, and so far our friendship is based on a sarcastic conversation about how he is actually my long lost brother.
Truth confirmed: No matter what goals we set for the new year, or how consistent we are in keeping them, inevitably we are going to change this year. Obstacles, challenges, adventures, successes, failures, and relationships will shape and change who we are and who we want to be. What new year's resolutions does the Lord have in store for me?
New friend: Chris. I don't know a ton about him yet. He found me on facebook through my sister, and so far our friendship is based on a sarcastic conversation about how he is actually my long lost brother.
1.1.11
Wow. The beginning of a new year. After a rough midnight new year's eve, I had the opportunity to begin this inevitably epic year by watching "Savior of the World" at the Conference Center Theatre in SLC. I showed up to the sold out show with hope that I would just be able to buy one ticket turned back in. My hope was magnified as a woman approached me in line and just handed me a ticket for free. (This has happened to me a few times: 2 times for Broadway shows in NYC...lucky? nope. blessed. loved by a very aware Heavenly Father.) It was a beautiful experience, as I was inspired by my friends on stage. Their testimonies of the Savior lit up the stage and jumped right into my heart to meet my corresponding feelings.
Truth confirmed: I am not alone. There are many who are passionate about living after the manner of happiness through living the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It's the little things that can remind us of a Father's love for His children.
New friend: Bryce. I sat next to him at the show. Friendly, but not overbearing. Very respectful. I performed with his brother! Small world.
Wow. The beginning of a new year. After a rough midnight new year's eve, I had the opportunity to begin this inevitably epic year by watching "Savior of the World" at the Conference Center Theatre in SLC. I showed up to the sold out show with hope that I would just be able to buy one ticket turned back in. My hope was magnified as a woman approached me in line and just handed me a ticket for free. (This has happened to me a few times: 2 times for Broadway shows in NYC...lucky? nope. blessed. loved by a very aware Heavenly Father.) It was a beautiful experience, as I was inspired by my friends on stage. Their testimonies of the Savior lit up the stage and jumped right into my heart to meet my corresponding feelings.
Truth confirmed: I am not alone. There are many who are passionate about living after the manner of happiness through living the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It's the little things that can remind us of a Father's love for His children.
New friend: Bryce. I sat next to him at the show. Friendly, but not overbearing. Very respectful. I performed with his brother! Small world.
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