Random fun pics!

Date night Fall Festival style


Random friend pics

Miriam's birthday celebration

Roommate temple trip

Fort night
Conference


Lot's of cool stuff happened lately, right! I pretty much am living the life. I love my friends, and I'm thankful they worship me! (just kidding Kellie!)

Secret Night

I went to a Postsecret night at Holly's house, and it was so totally fun. It was my best secret night, too. They were good ideas, they looked very postsecrety, I made a lot of them, and I had fun doing it. I put up some of them, and I hope you like them all. I feel just like Frank, if he were to only put up his own.

Mom, I hope you're crying right now. =) And I hope you don't mind that it's pictures of a little boy, instead of a girl.

Also, shout out to Shelley: I miss you!!!

The First Day of School...

Was Awesome!!! Actually, nothing really extraordinary happened, but there were no calamities either. I went to work, then classes and studying on campus, came home to watch an episode of "Numb3rs" with the roomies, went to class again, and came home. I got some school supplies, ate dinner, and avoided doing my homework by writing this post. I finally loaded my pictures from my camera, and I shall now put up the highlights, at least in my eyes. Fine, Blogger, I won't. It's not letting me do pictures or spell check right now, so I'm sorry for the non-excitement and the misspellings.
PS: I got a birthday present form Elliot Claire, and I almost cried it was so wonderful. He sent me a CD with voice recordings of him singing me a really sweet happy birthday, then he told me about the first time we met and other memories of our knowing each other. He said some really sweet things and bore his testimony. Then he put on this song by someone (I can't tell who) and it was such a cute song. OH, he is so great!!! Now I have to think of something equally as awesome to get him. He'll be up here in the MTC in ten days, so I think I'll wait til he's in, then make it all flowery and heart-y, with delicious smelling body spray on it or something. Elliot! Love!

Provo sweet Provo

OK, I'm back in Provo, and it's been pretty chill, yet I've gotten a lot done. Leesa and I got books yesterday, paid tuition, and went shopping, among other fun things. Today I got my background check started for the El Ed application process, which includes getting my fingerprints taken. It was fun, and it was the guy's first time doing it, so he had a bit of a rough time getting the machine to read my prints right. It was awesome. I also got free breakfast at work this morning, leftovers from a staff thing.
I wrote Tim last night, which I haven't done for about a month. It was fun, and I think he's a nice boy. Today Lord Hecklepeck wrote me, and I wrote him back, but it was intentionally boring. I'm trying to make it so he won't want to write me back, because the only way I'll stop is if he stops first. Is my logic faulty? It's fun to talk to him, but it's hard, you know? So I figure I'll wait until I meet all the guys in my ward, then see what happens.
Shout out to Shelley. My first day back in Provo, I already missed you. Tickets for the World of Dance went on sale, and my cultural events buddy is gone. =( But you were totally right about John Mayer's Contiuum. Boomshadow!
I got a haircut today, and I love it. Pictures shall follow shortly.

Home sweet Home

Well, everyone. I'm back in good ol' Redlands. It's been very exciting, going to church, chillin at home, getting my teeth cleaned. Oh, and beginning the Twilight book. I can't really talk about it with Carlie yet, because I tell her where I am, and she asks me if I've gotten to this part yet, Which inevitably gives something away because I have in fact not gotten there yet. Silly Carlie. I mostly just tell Mom where I am and she makes her crazy excited smile at me. I like it.
The drive down with the Mackelprangs was perhaps one of the funnest rides ever. We laughed talked slept ate listened to music told secrets and stories and had many other adventures. The trade off to Dad was a little rough on me, because Dad just wanted to whisk me away, maybe not realizing that it was making me so sad. Eric felt the dad fear too, and gave me a quick hug and a see ya later. In the car with Dad I was holding back tears the whole time. I came home and cried it out to Mom who was lovely and made me feel better to just have someone to tell it all to. I was fine after that and ended up having lots of fun adventures with the fam. Long story short, all can breathe easy. I'm not engaged.
I've been trying to load my pics from birthday-baby James- Eric day-Miscellaneous, but the computer is having some arguments with my camera right now, so we'll try to get that resolved soon.
I can't wait to start the major adventures of this trip. And I'm excited to have Shelley and Rick coming, and truly devastated to not have Holly and Caleb coming. I Know! Holly and Caleb, just jump on the scoo-scoo and come up for the weekend! Perfect. =)
Anyways, the Olympics are awesome and fun as always. Michael Phelps and team's second gold medal was so so so so so dramatic. I loved it. I just feel so magical about the Olympics.
I shall end on this note: I love home cooked food.

fun with the fone

As you may know, I got a new phone yesterday, and can't stop playing with it. Although Boomshadow I was a terrific phone, Boomshadow II is going to be fun too! It came with a headset, which is nice while at work. And it plays music like an iPod. I put some music on it last night, and I thought it would only play it through the earphones, but it'll blast it through the speaker too.

Here are some pictures that Dad was nice enough to let me download from my old phone. They are silly, but awfully sentimental for me. And if I can, I'll put some videos up too.

I love the Provo city library. It is cool on the inside, and has many wondrous things to choose from. Not just paper books, but books on tape and CD, movies of various kinds, DVDs, CDs, and other neat things. And you can check the books out with this cool checker outer doodle that I love to use. I also love my bright yellow library card with a cute froggie on it. Lovebug!

I'm already beginning to make plans for hanging out with Eric Mackelprang (Hecklepreck) in LA when I come home in August. I want to do so many things like go to the Getty, visit the Disney concert hall, but I don't know what he wants to do yet. What other fun things are there to do in LA besides the normal stuff like the Chinese Theater?

My birthday is less than a month away, and I cannot wait to be 2o years old. None of my greatest friends will be there, some being a couple states away, others being 9000+ miles away. All the same, it will be an adventure because it will be my first one away from home. And being on the road or on vacation does not count. I want to have a huge party, but I'm remembering that I don't really like huge parties. What a predicament...

Tim is on my mind as usual. And I realized that if he does get his extension, he'll miss three of my birthdays. Lamebrain. I thought he could be around for my 21st so he could take me drinking. Oh, well.

BTW, has anyone seen this shirt. I realized it was gone, and I miss it. Polo's are my favorite!

I have these random pictures of Holly on my computer. I just thought I'd share with the blogging world.

Four places I go over and over:
-outdoors and nature location
-Crabtree and SAS
-Colony street to frolic
-Disney Land

Four people who e-mail me regularly:
-the parents of all my missionaries
-Grandma
-Mommy
-ads

Four of my favorite places to eat:
-in a park (picnic style)
-the Old Spaghetti Factory
-Subway
-Grandma's House

Four places I would rather be right now:
-Partying it up with all my Colony buds
-on a run through a wooded glen
-dear ol' Redlands
-in a state of REM

Four people I talk to on a daily basis:
-LEEEEEEEEESA
-My flavor of the week boy
-My stylist
-Any various member of my family

Four TV shows I watch over and over:
-M
-A
-S
-H

Four people I’m tagging:
-If Mom hasn't been tagged, than I choose her
-I think everyone I know has been chosen already
-So I'll just stop here
-Wait, maybe Roxy ... Yes, Roxy.

Delights

This was created on Saturday, but due to technical difficulties, posted on Tuesday.

Oh, man. I got like 10 hours of sleep last night, all in a row and I am feeling good! I went to the canyon last night with Leesa and the Mackelprangs for a birthday of Eric's friend. He kept introducing us to people as his best friends. I couldn't tell if he was serious, but I thought it was cute. People also thought that Leesa and Clark were a couple, and Eric and I were a couple. Funny biz. Here's Eric with the spoon he just broke in half!

Here's who is really a couple.

Our ward is going to the Manti pageant tonight, and I am way stoked. I can't wait to build memories and experiences with my spring friends. People will be leaving sadly in about a week, like the Mackelprangs and Stan. It will be more lonesome without them. But at least I still got the roomies! (going clockwise: Julie Leesa Trisha Sarah Amanda) (I just realized that I'm the only one that doesn't end in -ah)

Shout out to Mom for sending me the cutest reading prize ever. I was so confused but excited when I first opened it, but then I read your cute letter and now I'm just excited. But you didn't have to do that. Hey, maybe I can have a grand prize of coming home, and being able to fly back to Provo!

So I hiked all over Y mountain on Thursday. I didn't make it to the top of Y mountain because I took the wrong path, but I went even higher and farther than that. My legs were really hurting yesterday, but I'm a lot better now. I took some fun pictures, that I shall post.... Now.

This is no trick of the camera. I really did get this close to the butterfly. I just have a way with living things, I guess. There were zillions of bugs on the trail, and it was fun to walk though them and watch them fly away.

Here is the fork where I took the wrong turn.

But here is where it took me.

PS: I went to Manti on Saturday and had a blast!!!!! 14 person van filled with all the coolest kids, a nice cheesy pageant, and faux tattoos.

FHE last night was totally awesome! It ended in a huge all-out ward water battle. Numerous people were thrown in the pool, and lots of tricks were played. I love this ward!!!!

Reading Wormie!

Here he is! I'm counting the books I listen to on CD, but not for pages, just for hours. I can't wait to put some more bodies on him, and I hope all of your wormies are doing well too!!!

Fun at the Park

So my new job is going well, and we're going to be having a breakfast party on Friday, which also means I have to go at 4:30 which I'm not too excited about, but it'll be fun. I don't have to talk to the annoying girl too much. I feel a little bad for not trying to make better friends with her, but it's too early for that. We work well together, though, and I think I already know more than her, because she's beginning her third week, and whatever. Makes me feel in the know.
When I got home from work last night, I walked in to find Clark, Eric, and Creg all talking with Leesa. A little later, Eric, Matt, Aaron, Leesa and I went to the park to draw in chalk, and do some general playing. We played the lava monster game, chicken, gladiator on the balance beam, and sat on the jungle gym for a while. I got to know Eric pretty well, and we all had lots of fun. I hope this becomes a trend!
Also, I got two letters from Tim, which were really great to get, and a package from Mother, which was also amazing to get. Also, for all those who know him/care, TLK or Kyle as he is sometimes called, came into work a couple days ago, and I think he's coming back to work for Gayle. He looked great, and you couldn't even tell anything was different. By the way, Mom, I think I should start arranging my trip home for August so I can get time off, and get a ticket back to Utah. Love to all!

Video Tour

Here is a video tour of my house. I find it's a lot better than just a photo tour, because you get a better idea of what it looks like. I forgot to mention the sweet moss color of my door and house, and the awesome Strawbetty Shortcake poster in our room. I hope you like it!

Happy Birthday and Mothers Day!

Carlie, you're 17! That is totally blowing my mind!!! I hope 17 is a great year for you!

Happy Mother's Day Mom!!! I was thinking about you all during church today because it was the underlying theme. The real theme was service, but motherhood fits into that pretty well. There was a post secret that said

And I want you to know that that goes for me too. I love you so much, and I am so lucky to have you in my life!

Other news, I got a library card, and a nasty sunburn yesterday. We had a dinner party with a bunch of random people over, and had a great time. My new roommates (Amanda and Sarah) are super cool, and it's going to be fun living with them.

I'm Back!

After an absence from the Internet, I've made my glorious come back. And thank you to all those who were going to harass me for not writing, and remembering that I couldn't. I hope this satisfies you.

Today was my first Sunday of the BYU 84th ward, and it was pretty awesome! I've never had Relief Society first, so this will be interesting. My bishop is a former NBA player, and he is 6'10. He is also super nice, so I can't wait to get to know him. We walked home with a guy named Robbie, and we ended up just hanging out on our part of the sidewalk. As time went on, more and more people congregated with us, so we had a group of like 12 random people from our ward. It's pretty awesome. We have a break the fast at 4:30 and a ward prayer at 8:30 that I think I shall attend. There are a ton of cool people in our ward, so I'm way excited. I also got to know my roommate Amanda better today, and she says Y'all really often, and it's really cute. I have a feeling we're not going to get very well acquainted with Sarah and our kind of roommate Trisha. They are dating brothers who live at the Colony too, and we haven't seen much of them this week. It will most likely become a trend. But they're cool.

I'm going to get a second job this week, and I hope to start working it by the end, whatever it may be. I'm going to start running every morning around 7:30 or 8, because this whole sleeping in thing and never leaving the house is a drag. I'm going to go give plasma with my friend David on Tuesday. I tried to make him promise to drag me home if I faint, but he said he'd just leave me. I guess I'll just have to not faint, which I can do.

A digital tour of my apartment will follow shortly. Now I must go bake rolls.

So I have one more final today for ASL, and one oral final tomorrow for linguistics. Then I'm free as a bird, to find a second job at least. I applied for 4 secretarial positions online, and none have gotten back to me. I guess it's time to start looking for some plan b's. I'm also moving in about a week, and I'm pretty excited to get a new batch of people to know. It's just going to be sad when a bunch of my friends from this ward go home and move to different places. Roooooxxxxxyyyy, I'll miss you!

I've been working a lot on Tim's birthday present, as you know, and kind of been driving myself crazy with it. It's making me think of him a hundred times more often, which is a little distracting for finals week. He got permission to send me an email, so I got it today. He wanted to email because he didn't know where to send a letter since I'm moving in a week. It's weird to hear from him, because it feels like he just wrote me. Anyways, he mostly just told me about how he's getting his first baptism soon, and asks how Holly is doing. That's how most of his letters turn out, telling me a bit about the transfer and asking about Holly. WTHeck! Well, it's nice to hear from him, and I'm glad he's doing well. I'm really excited to finish his present and send it off, which looks like it will be happening this week.

Speaking of missionaries, Wayne broke his leg playing soccer!!! I felt so sad for him, and wrote him a letter right away. He's optimistic about it, which is lovely, and he gets to stay out, which is also lovely. He's so adorable.

I can't wait for Mommy and Daddy to come in two days. We're going to party like it's 1999!

I went on the Rex Run again Friday night, and it was beautiful!!! I actually took a little detour and went around the duck pond too. I don't know why I keep going down there. Anyways... Mile War: 48.
I went on two dates this weekend. One with the fabulous Elliot. We went and saw the Emma Smith movie (which was surprisingly awesome), got lunch, and came back to my place for games. I got him hooked to Buzz Lightyear! Then we played ping pong, and he is good. Turns out he used to be treasurer for the ping pong club in high school. We had lots of fun, and I hope I get to see him again before he goes.
Then yesterday, I went out with Quinn. We hiked the Y, and got to see the sun set. It was beautiful. Then we went to Trafalga (sp?) and played on the outside one. While we waited for one hole, we played horse on the one we'd just finished. He thought up crazy ways to do it, but never got a one. We had a blast. Then we got ice cream and had a great discussion on books and movies and stuff. Through the night he would ask me silly hypothetical questions, like what I'd do with a million dollars. Then we talked about our dream houses, and he wants a bat cave, an aquarium room, and some other crazy cool stuff. I said I'd have a shooting gallery, and a moving sidewalk. Turns out Quinn is a movie buff, and we have a lot of the same interests. We talked a lot of Napoleon Dynamite, Muppet movies, super hero movies... it was awesome. We also talked about how great Mr. Rogers was, and all his cool adventures. In the car he played me all this cool music, and I want to go find some of it. He did basket ball in high school, which doesn't surprise me. It was fun standing next to him, because I had to look straight up to see his face.
But at the end of the night I felt like such a doooooofus! He walked me to my door at about 11:30, and I really wanted to invite him in, but what would we have done for a half hour before I had to kick him out? So we were standing outside my door, and I was trying to decide if I should ask him in, when he just jumped in and thanked me for coming. I thanked him back for the wonderful night, and he gave me a hug. As he walked away he told me to make sure and take breaks while I study for finals, so I can do better. I really want to hang out with him again, so maybe he would like to join me for one of the breaks I'm sure I'll be taking. We can watch a movie, or finger paint. I just really want to finger paint. I just have to get to him before he goes back home!

Life at this point

Leesa and I went running last night. Mile War: 44. Can we have a party when I get to 50? It will need to be half as grand as Mom's party, though.
I cut my bangs today, and a picture shall soon be posted.
I went to the University Band Concert last night, and it was totally awesome! Roxy and Brittany and Katelyn (downstairs neighbor) all did great! Can't wait to talk to them about it.
Quinn called me a couple days ago, and we are set to go on a date Saturday. We're getting together at 1:00, and if weather permits, we might hike the Y or go mini golfing or something.
School is going well. I got some help from my professor today on my ling analysis project, and I'm feeling pretty good about it now. I'll also have an oral final for this class, which I'm pretty nervous for, but it'll be fine. I have 4 papers, a quiz, and a story to prepare for my ASL class. I have a poem to finish and two papers for my Eng 313 class, but they seem pretty easy. And dance... let's just say he'd better be pretty lenient on our Swing test, considering he started teaching it to us less than a week ago, and we've danced it twice. I sign up for Fall classes on Friday early morning. I'll prolly just do it after the Office party.
Now all I need to do is get a second job for the summer. I took the office skills test, and found that I'm not as skilled as I wish to be, but that's just because I have no reason to be skilled in that area. It's not like I've ever had any practice with that sort of thing.
I'm teaching my last lesson in Sunday school on Sunday, and it's going to be Gospel Essentials, which has always been challenging to me, so it's a good experience for me to grow from. I'll be sad to leave this calling, because I love it so much. It's been perfect for me this year in so many ways. I want to do clerical work in the Church for the rest of my life!
PS: I'm going to be starting Tim's birthday present this week, and if anyone wants to throw something in the box for him, I'd send it for you.
To all the world: Cheers!

Thank you World!

I would like to give a brief shout-out to my awesome big sisters. I am the luckiest girl in the world, and they take such good care of me. We made postsecrets last night, and laughed and laughed and laughed. Then Shelley drop kicked me in the face, but not before Holly gave me a bruise on the leg. Thanks! Now I'll never have to be scared of April 2nd again!
PS: Leesa said she played a prank on me and I died. She was right, I died laughing! Also, she is maybe going to kidnap me for conference on Sunday, and I am maybe going to let her, if I don't find somewhere else to watch it, and someone else to watch it with. I'm way excited for conference!!!

I got to spend some alone time with the track tonight, and it was beautiful. I'm betting I almost did 5 miles, which is pretty good, I think. But I'd better eat before I pass out. April fools, I won't pass out. Mile War: 43

Kellie Leesa Joel and I went running Thursday night, and it was real fun. Mile War: 38.5

I'm sitting here in the basement of the Wilk with Kellikins, waiting for Daddy to come pick us up, and we are already having a BALL! Right?!

David and I ran today, and I took him on the Rex Lee Run circuit. We had lots of fun, and joked and laughed the half hour away. It also helped that it was a beautiful day. Leesa called me at work tonight asking me if I wanted to run with her, and I just couldn't resist. Later I found the main reason she asked me was to get out of playing tennis with a boy (who I think is super cute) who she is trying to avoid. So we went to the track and had a blast. We sprinted a bit, which I haven't done in a long time. It felt nice, and we stretched real good when we got home. My total for the day is 5.5 miles. Mile War: 37!

Rex Lee Run!!!

So Shelley was such a sport today. She and Rick came to watch me dance in dance sport. But we didn't get called back. I looked up at the clock and it said 8:45, just enough time to get ready for the race at 9:15! So I went and found Shelley, and after a little pressure, got her to come run. We met at the starting place, and started a few minutes behind. Guess what Holly? I got a DOUBLE HIGH-FIVE from COSMO!!! He was running past and I screamed out his name. It was glorious! So we finished the race in about 40 minutes. Not bad for first timers! I'm so happy that I got to do the run with Shelley before she moves away forever. And I just realized something, we can totally count this for mile war. Hence... Mile War: 31.5

I ran at Holly and Caleb's yesterday, and it was pretty awesome. But for future reference, I'm going to be wiser, and not eat a bunch of pizza and soda right before I run. Mile War: 28
Also, a great big warm fuzzy loving greatful large and glorious thank you to Holly for helping me with my research paper. It is about a billion times better than it would have been had I done it alone. I think it has turned out nice, and if anyone wants to read about the effects of effectiveness of music in the classroom, then I'm your man!

Here is Ninja Rick for the masses.

Mile War: 26

So everyone in the world ditched me last night, but that's coo'. I still had my trusty music, and all the hot boys to look at on the track. I pushed myself a bit, and did my three miles a little faster. Mile war: 25.

Yesterday in my Dance 180 class, (Shelley, I think your teacher substituted. She's crazy!) we did the cha cha the whole time, and it was awesome. I got to dance with my dance sport partner for a majority of it, which was good practice. He is a swing dancer by trade, and it was really coming out. At the end of class, our TA yelled out for everyone to do one last move, and to make it amazing. Before I knew it, my partner (Steven) bends down, grabs me by the waist, and picks me up and spins me around. It caught me so off gaurd, that I let out a yell. Eveyone looked at us, and it was so funny. He looked at me and said, "you weren't supposed to scream!" Oh, man, it was totally awesome.

And Holly, because you said nice things about my etch-a-sketching, I drew you this picture of Cosmo. I hope you like it! By the way, everyone else, I need practice, so I take requests.

I made Leesa come running with me last night. We only did a mile, but it was still fun. Mile War: 22.

I forgot my backpack at work the other night, so I decided to run there from campus yesterday and get it. When I walked past the front desk in all my running gear, the girl gave me a weird look, and it was great! I got my backpack successfully, and had a delightful run. Mile War: 21.
Hopefully Leesa and I will be going running tonight! That would be so fun!

Mile War: 19. I had my last day of PE, which was only the test. I was done by like 10:30, and usually we're not done with the class until 11:40 ish. So I decided to go for a little morning run. The track was closed to runners because of the classes going on, so I just ran outside. It's a beautiful gloomy day, and not that cold feeling. I ran through the duck pond, and all around south campus. It was really nice. Maybe I'll do that more often when it gets a tad warmer.

Mile War: 16. I'm getting faster. I did 4 miles in about 40 minutes, and I would have kept going, but I didn't want to get locked out of the RB. Boomshadow!

This three day weekend was kind of roller-coastery. It was way fun, a tad intense, sort of lonely, a bit stressful, and emotions were running on high. Ward temple trip, ward ice skating trip, watching movie after movie, going to Shelley's house (thanks for saving me from my movies!), going to Holly's house (thanks for secreting with me; very cathartic), and Zupa's and the canyon with Jaren. Not nearly enough homework getting done, but that's to be expected. I feel like I just need to step away from life for a while. Maybe work can help me out with that.

PS: We finally played with the huge parachute today!

Mile War: 12

Jaren sent me flowers yesterday!!! I couldn't believe it, but it's true! They were delivered yesterday, and when I opened the door and saw the girl standing there with them, I wondered who they were for. When she said my name, I was floored. He put a cute little not with it, and they are soooo beautiful! He is so great!!!

Hip Hip Horray!!!

I always love getting my hair cut, and through all my trials and tribulations, I did it! "Long" hair was fun, but it was definitely time for a change. I didn't really tell anyone I was going to do this, so I'm pretty excited to see their reactions! I modeled these pictures after Sister Hull's when she got her hair cut. She is too cute!

Mile war

I spontaniously went running last night, and it was totally awesome. Plus I got the sweetest blood blister ever.

Mile war= 4.5 + 3 = 7.5 I'm climbing the charts!

Date... Double style

Last night was the double date between Jaren and I, and Cari and Bubba. I must say, it was pretty fun. We had dinner, with delightful contributions by Cari and Bubba. The Martinelli's were a classy touch. And the Oreo cheesecake was a hit as usual. We played Conga and danced to the music a little bit. Then we played Buzz Lightyear! It was pretty awesome, but I was the only one who didn't win any rounds. Curses! By some strange turn of events, we ended up watching Hotel Rwanda. It was really good, but at the end I just kind of said, "how did that happen?" Anyways, we ended the night with the Martenelli's and fantastic conversation, and vioala! A real fun evening!

I should have taken snow shoes...

Mike and I were planning on going running last night, but at about 8 he calls me, and asks me if we can run on the outdoor track. He's taking a jogging class or something, and that was part of the assignment. The first thing I said was, "you do know it's snowing right now?" And he said he was walking in it right then. I don't know why I agreed, but I said I'd meet him at the track across the street at 9, and asked him to let me borrow some running pants. So we get there, and I put on some warm ups that he brought for me (which I wanted to steal because they were so awesome), and we went to find the track. When we kind of decided where it should be, he made a starting line in the snow, and off we went. There was the hard icy snow, covered with a blanket of fresh powder. I have never run in snow before, or out in the cold for that matter. I just about died after three laps. We took a break after the first mile, but then we did another one. The second one wasn't so bad, because we'd already kind of beaten a path for ourselves. But after we were done, I wanted to die! I was so cold, and my legs were so tired. Running through that snow was like running on sand, accept like 10 times worse! He came back to my apartment to warm up a little and get some water, and ended up watching some Full House with me Jessica and Juliet. It was a fun night, but one I do not want to ever, EVER duplicate. ever.

Mile war=2.5+2= 4.5 But can I count it as more?

When mom called me last night, I was pretty excited to talk to her, because I thought she was calling me back from one of my earlier efforts to talk to them. But after the customary "how are you?"s, she told me she had a little bit of sad news. "President Hinkley passed away about an hour ago." At first I was in some shock, then I jumped out of my seat and went around the apartment trying to find a roommate. I just looked at Juliet, and she said she already head. When I sat back down, I saw Leesa walk past my door, and we looked at each other. She was on the phone too, and she had tears in her eyes. After mom and I got off the phone, I went and found Leesa who had gone to Lacey's apartment. We didn't talk much, but hugged a lot, and went to ward prayer. That was one of the most powerful ward prayers ever. The spirit was so strong. I didn't cry at first, because I was so happy for him to be up in Heaven. But the moment I thought of his reunion with his wonderful wife, my heart melted for them, and the tears wouldn't stop. All the boys at ward prayer were so sweet to all the girls who were crying. A member of the bishopric said the prayer, and he got pretty emotional. We sang Sweet Hour of Prayer, and We Thank Thee Oh God For a Prophet. I couldn't have sung more than a third of each hymn, because they were touching me strongly at that moment.
I'm going to miss President Hinkley, because he was such a great man. He was sweet and caring, and you could feel it every time he spoke. His humor was always welcome and enjoyed, and his council always wise. I am truly thankful for my prophet, and I am so glad to be a part of this gospel. It will be exciting to see what happens in the next conference.

I've been tagged!!!

Shyla tagged me in this game that I think sounds pretty fun! Here's how it goes down.

A: The rules of the game are posted at the beginning.
B: Each player answers the questions about themselves.
C: At the end of the post, the player then tags 3 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog.

10 years ago: I was 9 years old, in 4th grade at McKinley Elementary learning how to count in Japanese
5 things on my to-do list today: 1) Work on my mountain of homework 2) Call an elementary school to get an ESL student 3) go to sign language class 4) Find my classmate on Facebook 5) and finally... eat something delicious!
5 Snacks I enjoy: 1) Sushi (does that count as a snack?) 2) mini crunch bars 3) cupcakes 4) Oreo cheese cake 5) frozen hot chocolate
What I would do if I were suddenly made a billionaire: I would pay off all the debts of everyone I know, travel the world giving away money every step of the way, then settle down someplace and save the rest for my future, and my children, and my children's children, and my children's children's children. Then set up some kind of awesome foundation for cleft lip children. I would also prolly eat a lot of stuff on the previous list.
3 of my bad habits: 1) I stay up too late too often 2) I try and lead accidentally in Social Dance 3) I make some of my roommates feel uncomfortable with my lack of apparel
5 places I have lived: 1) Redlands, CA 2) Provo, UT 3) Umm... never mind. That's it
5 jobs that I have had: 1) Cleaning the Bishops' house 2) babysitting 3) TCBY 4) SAS custodial
5 Things people don't know about me: 1) I haven't played good ping pong in exactly a month today 2) I modeled for Juliet in my bathing suit 3) I make a mean fried egg 4) Someday I'm going to run the LA marathon 5) I secretly wish my boyfriend would do something with me on my half birthday.

Now I'm going to tag Mommy, Holly, and Shelley. I would tag Roxy, but she hasn't blogged in forever. So hop to it guys!

I got a letter from Kirk today, and it was pretty hard to read, because it was very beautiful cursive. It was so fun, though, and I can't wait to hear from him again. Unfortunately, I also got back the letters I sent to Charlie and Talmage. I guess there are special things I have to do for pouch letters, and I didn't do them. What a waste of my stamps!
Here is a little funny story from my dance class. For the boys, it is proper form to put their hand right under the girls arm pit and covering the shoulder blade. Well, yesterday I wore my shirt with the little hood on it, and there was a boy who felt the need to go under the hood. But as he was burrowing under it, he kept ramming his hand into my bra strap. I don't know if he noticed, but it sure made me feel weird.

horray for film class!

I went with Jaren to see a movie for his film class again this morning. This one was a silent film called Sunrise, and I really enjoyed it. Jaren and I had fun whispering jokes to each other the whole time. It's not like there was any dialogue we were missing. It was a veeeery dramatic film, but it had a happy ending. Well, maybe not as dramatic as mellow dramatic, but it was still good. When Jaren and I walked into the auditorium, it was raging hot, and I thought it felt so good, but I guess I was the only one. When we sat down, there was a couple sitting behind us, and all of a sudden the guy says, "Jaren?" The they talk about how they didn't know they were in the same class, and how it was pretty awesome. Then he asked a question, and it took me a few seconds to process that it was in Tagalog. Then Jaren answers back in Tagalog, and my name was the last word. So I turned around and said hi. Kind of funny.

I got my first response back from the round of missionary letters I sent out. It was from Kirk Hepburn, and it was just a little blip from a mass email that he sends to his dad, and his dad sends to us. When I wrote his letter, I guess I was feeling a little silly, so I dear Johned him. Then I told him that people thought he and I were dating during the summer, and it was just too funny! Here is what he said:

Julie, I understand that things change, especially feelings. Just be sure that he's worthy of you. [snicker] Thanks for you letter!

He's such a nice boy, and I can't wait to write him again.

Also, my PE teacher was gone today, so we had to join the basketball class. Worst two hours ever. But the beautifully crystallizing snow is kinda fun!

I AM NOT AN ANIMAL!

I am in a very analytical mood right now. I went with Jaren to see the Elephant Man for his film class. It was so sad, and so happy, and so good! We went to lunch afterward and discussed the various themes of the movie, because he has to write a paper on it. I could feel my AP lit skills kicking in, because it was a little tough at first thinking of what a theme even was, but once I got rolling, gems of analytical delight were coming out all over the place. Now all I want to do is write a paper on All Quiet on the Western Front or something. Also, I would like to go hot tubbing, but that has nothing to do with it.

Mile War: 2 miles

So, I think I have a boyfriend, but I'm not sure. Last night after the fun adventures at Holly and Caleb's house, he walked me to my apartment, but came in and finished a movie with the thousands of people that were there instead of going home and preparing his lesson for today. After the movie was over, I walked him home, and we stood on his poarch for a while talking. After a while he asked some off-hand question about some plants that are taking over his house. Then he said, "I just thought I'd ask, because that's what boyfriends and girlfriends do." Then we just looked at each other and smiled a lot, then started talking about something else. So I guess we're finally official... I guess. It's pretty exciting. And he had a very good Sunday school lesson today.

Some odd adventures

Here are some random things that have happened in the last few days that I think are pretty funny:
We were at Superstar video, and we were just browsing, when I hear a little gasp from Mom. She holds up the movie to me that she was looking at, and I say a little sigh/gasp. Then I take the movie and show it to Carlie, who lets out a little ooohh... and then to Kellie who says a little gasp too. What was the commotion all about? There were three people on the cover, and one of them happened to be Hugh Jackman. I don't remember what the movie was, but I liked all of our reactions.
We all went to David's Bridal, and I was engaged to Jaren for about an hour. We made an appointment to come back on Friday so I could try on some gowns, and my two brides maids could try on some dresses. The lady asked me for my phone number, and without even thinking, the number 792-7631 jumped out. Afterwards, I was a little baffled, and it was funny... believe me...
Carlie and Kellie and I were playing Nintendo last night, and I can't remember how we got on this subject, but Carlie started telling me this story of how I've scarred her for life. Apparently when we were little, we walked to school past Betty's house, and I told her that if she stepped on those huge cracks, that alligators would come out and eat her. Then when we got to school, she told her whole kindergarten class, and none of them would step on cracks. To this very day, Carlie will not step on a crack, and it's not for the sake of her mother's back. So after Carlie was done telling me this, Kellie jumps in and starts arguing that I had told her that it was alligator eggs, not alligators, and that she remembers thinking it was really funny that I told her that. Like Carlie would believe it, and not Kellie. I don't remember any of this, but it sure made me laugh last night.

Mile War: 2008

2.5 miles. Done.

PS: that movie made me cry

Mom and I drove the kids to Scandia last night, and she and I went to Ontario mills on date. We saw PS: I love you, (but don't tell anyone!) and it was so goooooood! Mom and I came out of the movie with tear-streaked face. We then went to Applebee's to drink something delicious and talk about our feelings. We mostly talked about Tim and Roy. The food was so good, and I haven't had good girl talk in forever. When it was time, we drove back to scandia and took everyone to their various homes. Then crashed in bed.

I love looking at Sister Hull's pictures, because the girls are soooo cute! Tonight we are going to have a Xanadu party, while Daddy conviniently has to go out for the night. Carlie is going to miss it, because she is babysitting the Hill children. They are moving in like a month, so no more new baby bed stories, or birthday panties. Sad times...
Today, I finished the puzzle that Dad gave me, the one that is like 3D, and it looks totally awesome!!!! It was a really fun puzzle to do, and I can't wait to paste it and put it up on the wall in my room. I hope my new roommate likes hot air balloons!
Now that Christmas excitement has settled down, I've begun to miss my friends. Although I have a lot more I want to do here, I would like to play with my new toys with Leesa and apt 77, the BN, and various other people, like downstairs Juli.
Being home is so nice. I don't think it's gotten below 50. Being silly with Carlie and Kellie is so much fun! They love Divine Comedy, and soon all the Chatfield girls will know the joys of quoting it. It is perfect here for running, and with the help of my running shoes, it is totally awesome. And Caleb, watch out, because I'm joining the miles war! Eating real home cooked food is so magical! I've gained like 5 pounds since I've been home, and I know I'll be shot for saying that.
Wow, Xanadu is going to be an interesting movie...