Life is an Adventure

Currently Most Favoritest!!!

2010-10-20T14:49:00.000-07:00

Currently most favoritest song, and most favoritest movie! :)

No life could be cheaper

2010-10-19T10:03:00.001-07:00

If you haven't listened to the song "If I can't love her" yet, please do, so you'll understand what I'm referring to in this post... I have the song posted on here twice, so I'm sure you haven't missed it. :)

So, I was listening to this song a few weeks back while my sister was painting my face for a halloween costume. She was using me as a model for pictures to post on her facebook page. She is amazing, you should definitely check it out. K Painting.

ANYWAY! So, I was listening to this song, thinking about the romantic part of it. Then thought out loud, "I wish I could find a man someday that is this passionate about me." Kristina just kinda hummed in answer. Then, as I thought about that, I realized, I don't even feel that passionately about anyone, or even about anything.

Probably the only thing that I've been close to passionate about was basketball. But that wasn't so much a passion, at least not at first, as just something to do that I enjoyed... But it wasn't like I ate drank and slept it. I did practice a lot, and played in games. But if I wasn't on the court or with my team, I wasn't all that concerned about it. I never practiced on my own or anything.

As I looked back on my life, I realized that I've never loved doing something so much, that that was all I could think about. I've never had a deep passion for anything. I'm about to leave for a mission, and for a year and a half, the gospel is going to be all I eat breath and sleep. And I'm excited about that. I know I'm going to grow in my testimony and as a person over all. But I've decided that when I get back, I want to try to find my passion. Maybe I don't have to be obsessed with it 24/7, but something that I will be known by. :)

Here are my ideas. I've always wanted to study culinary arts (particularly the baking side of it) so I thought maybe I could become a pastry chef, and I thought it would be really cool to study in Europe and then open a cafe of sorts here. My brother came up with the idea to call it the Steaming Spoon. :) So that's one idea.

The other thing I'd like to do is learn how to quilt. I would love to be able to make awesome quilt designs and give them as gifts to people. :)

So, those are two ideas... I don't have time for more right now.

I want to become as great a person I can in this life. To learn as much as I can, and to develop all of my talents I've been given by my Father in Heaven. I hope that developing myself in every way possible before I get married, will help me in my marriage, and in my relationship with my husband. I hope I will find someone who will want to join in the adventure of finding our passions together. And that as we grow, our love and passion for each other will also grow, to be like that of the Beast for Belle. :)

What are your passions? Do you have any ideas of some other things that I could try? I won't get to try them til I get back. But I would love to hear them. :0)

“Nothing great in the world has ever been accomplished without passion.”

Hebbel quotes (German Poet and Dramatist, 1813-1863)

If I Can't Love Her - Beauty and the Beast

2010-10-10T14:27:00.000-07:00

So, I added this song onto my playlist up above, but I like this version a million times better. So, press pause on the song above, and listen to this version... if you want. :) I think I just like the whole orchestra playing along. Sounds a lot more complete to me. But, I plan to blog more about his song later. :)

What's in a name?

2010-09-29T14:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, while I was trying to find something to do, I decided I would text a question to several people in my phonebook, just to see what answers I would get. The question I decided to ask was, "What's your favorite name?"
I got some confused responses at first. Like, "Name for what?" "Boy or girl?"
Once I cleared the question up, I was surprised to find that I didn't get a single answer that was the same. Everyone had a different name.
In thinking about that, I've come to wonder, where do names come from? Why do we even have names? So, I asked Google, and found this interesting article. You're welcome to read if you'd like.

Why do we have names?: HeraldTimesOnline.com

It also made me think of how everyone has different ideas and tastes. Some of the names people sent me last night, I honestly hoped they weren't planning to name any of their children with. (No offense.) Then there were others I'd never even heard before. I even have some new favorites.

But I think that's what makes this world beautiful. No, not that we all have names... But that we all have different likes. There's so much diversity, and really, it's all beautiful in it's own way. One great thing about all the amazing technology we have now, is that it allows us to see all that diversity. And, I think with being able to share it more and more with the world, the world is becoming more accepting of being different. I'm so glad that when we meet someone who looks different from us, we don't automatically believe they've been cursed, or are of the devil.

But what really, is the most amazing, is that we are all brothers and sisters. Children of God. I hope that we all remember that, as we go our different ways, and meet new people.

Here is a list of a few of the names I got last night:

Nico
Ellie (Jordanelle)
George
Charles
William
James
Isabella
Gwen
Laurelle
Lyla
Yael
Westly
Roland
Gerard
Mikko
Jocelyn
Penelope
Phoebe

What's your favorite name?

OK Go - White Knuckles - Official Video

2010-09-22T08:16:00.000-07:00

Which would you rather be?

2010-09-13T16:23:00.000-07:00

So, I haven't really known what to blog about lately, but today I finally thought of something.. Well, I should say I was inspired by Anne Shirley of Anne of Green Gables. I hope at least some of you have seen this movie, so I don't sound totally crazy. :)
But in the movie she asks her new friend and guardian Matthew a question. She says, "Which would you rather be; Divinely Beautiful, Dazzlingly Clever, or Angelically Good?"
So, I thought, which one would I rather be? And for what reasons?
Everyone wants to be divinely beautiful, but more often than not, that leaves out intelligence. And I think I'd rather be the ugliest person in the world, than not be smart. So, then you'd think, dazzlingly clever should be my choice. But what about being Angelically Good? To love people, and care for them no matter what. To always be of service, and to accept people for who they are. To be totally honest 100% of the time, etc. It's something I'm striving to become, but sure seems hard. But I think of those three, being Angelically Good would be my choice. I think that the other two can kind of come into play with being so good. Maybe not to it's full effects, but people do say that good people seem to have a glow about them. And I think you do have to have some intelligence to really be that good. :)

What do you think? Do you agree? Disagree? Which would you choose? Comment!

You Gotta Be - Des'ree [lyrics]

2010-08-31T10:33:00.000-07:00

Another favorite song.

2010-08-19T14:59:00.000-07:00

Haven't posted anything for a while... I don't seem to have much to say these days. So I posted a favorite long not heard song. The Lion Sleeps Tonight. :)

The Tokens - The Lion Sleeps Tonight

2010-08-19T14:55:00.000-07:00

Just a thunderstorm? Or was it something more?

2010-08-04T10:02:00.000-07:00

Last night, or I should say early this morning, we had a.... very loud thunderstorm... That's an understatement, but at the same time, true. It's the loudest storm I've ever heard. Those of you who live in this area know what I'm talking about. And, I wonder if this was the cause for it? What do you think? Did people in other places experience strange weather?

Solar plasma aurora storm to hit Earth tomorrow today!

Burst sunspot could see Northern Lights over UK, US

By Lewis Page • Get more from this author

Posted in Space, 3rd August 2010 11:40 GMT

Astroboffins are warning that a mighty "eruption" of superhot plasma has been blasted out of the Sun directly at the Earth. The plasma cloud is expected to reach Earth beginning ~~tomorrow~~ today, possibly causing strange phenomena - including a mighty geomagnetic storm which could see the Northern Lights aurorae extend as far south as Blighty or the northern USA.

Duck's eye view of the plasma shotgun blast

According to boffins analysing results delivered from NASA's Solar Dynamics Observatory satellite, Sunday saw a massive convulsion involving almost the entire face of the Sun facing Earth. The event was apparently centred on Sunspot 1092, a huge solar pimple so large as to be visible without the aid of a telescope.

It appears that the sunspot may have triggered a huge "coronal mass ejection" in which huge amounts of superhot plasma were spurted towards Earth accompanied by solar flares, tsunamis, magnetic filaments and other sun-wracking upsets across half the sun's surface.

"This eruption is directed right at us, and is expected to get here early in the day on August 4th," says astronomer Leon Golub of the Harvard-Smithsonian Center for Astrophysics (CfA). "It's the first major Earth-directed eruption in quite some time."

Normally a blast of radiation like this could be expected to wipe out much of the human race, but fortunately we are protected by the Earth's magnetic field. Instead the deadly solar plasma is expected to stream down the planetary field lines towards the poles, crashing into oxygen and nitrogen atoms in the atmosphere and so lighting them up to form aurorae - the so-called Northern Lights.

Golub and his colleagues believe that the aurorae may be so intense as to be visible from the northern United States and other countries such as the UK which are normally too far south to see the Lights.

"We got a beautiful view of this eruption," enthuses the astronomer. "And there might be more beautiful views to come, if it triggers aurorae."

The Sun's activity generally rises and falls on an 11-year cycle: the last peak occurred in 2001, but since then the star has been going through an unusually prolonged calm spell. We've been overdue for some more action for several years, and Golub and his colleagues consider that Sunday's outburst may be a sign that the Sun is "waking up". ®

Clay Bead Bracelets!

2010-07-22T08:43:00.000-07:00

http://momof5daughters.blogspot.com

The Biggest Problem Facing the World Today (Something to think about)

2010-07-15T12:08:00.000-07:00

My very good friend Christine posted her thoughts on what the biggest problem facing the world today is. I think there's a lot of truth to it. At the very least it's something to think about, and to try and better ourselves on. I hope she doesn't mind I'm posting this. Thanks so much Christine!

Hmmm what do I think is the biggest problem facing our world today?
Share
Today at 12:00pm
Good morning America, Wake UP!

Apathy, Selfishness and an overwhelming sense of “This is too big for me”.
Even though there are many important issues of the day to address, one of the biggest in my opinion is that the American masses have become apathetic, selfish and so overwhelmed with the crisises in the world that they feel they can’t really make a difference, so then why would they try.

Apathetic, a pathetic excuse
I am just as guilty of this as any other American. I don’t care to listen to politics because when I do all I seem to hear is a lot of bickering and disrespect for people of opposing opinions. How in the world are we to come to any form of resolution to the problems facing us as a country if we can’t even respect one another as human beings?

Care, show some respect
It’s simple. If people come together to share their opinions and genuinely listen to one another they can find some common ground to stand on and begin to show one another they care. Think, for example, of the soldiers who were fighting in WWII. They were in the middle of combat on German soil when all fire ceased. Why? Because it was Christmas. Because both opposing sides had that “common ground” and what better tribute to Christ their God than literally for those few hours bringing “Peace and Good Will toward Men!”

Selfishness, what’s in it for me?
I want, I need, I feel… so what? Why do people focus their lives on the temporary, the fleeting pleasures of life? It’s fine to want a new car, to need new clothes and to feel passionate about something. In fact some of those things give us our drive in life to keep going. These things should not come however at the expense of devaluing others and disrespecting humanity.

Society, the social order
We as human beings forget sometimes that we are not the center of the universe. The sun doesn’t revolve around us. We are subject to the earth on which we live. We as individuals cannot make it alone. As a society, we rely on each other. We serve each other to survive the way we do. Serve. There are so many people in this world that it's simply reasonable to make their happiness as important as your own; if you can be happy when good things happen to others, your opportunities for delight are increased six billion to one!

It’s too big for me, I’m only one person.
Each individual has their own sphere of influence. Yes, Influence. Each individual affects the people around them whether they want to or not. To create positive change, start with yourself; share your thoughts with your family, friends, co-workers and so on. It’s amazing how fast things travel by the word of mouth. Pick something to follow, share your passion, and keep an open mind.
If each person in America changed from being apathetic and selfish to caring and charitable then America could be a land of the free and the home of the brave.

I wish the best for this country, I love you fellow Americans and may God bless you in your pursuit of Happiness.
Your fellow American,
Christine Diamond

Independence Day Weekend!

2010-07-06T12:09:00.000-07:00

Pretty sure this was the best weekend ever! I loved it so so much! So, first on Friday, me, Nik, and Alex had friends over to do fireworks. It was lots and lots of fun. Sadly, I couldn't find my camera, so I didn't get any pics. But it was great fun! Then after cleaning up I went with some friends to Magelby's Fresh for French Toast. It was very tasty.
Then on Saturday, me, Nik and Alex hung out with Daddy and Alyssa. We went to check out the Freedom Festival in Provo- which always has great stuff to see. We went and saw Robin Hood at the dollar theater, and then got some Fried Chicken and went to the big field in front of the temple to watch the fireworks. It's one of our oldest 4th of July traditions, and we always have fun. Surprisingly it was quite chilly. I think my favorite part- besides the fireworks, of course- is when the Navy jets fly over the field. They are so freakin fast! But I love em. So the fireworks were great. After there was a family dance that we went to check out. It wasn't anything too exciting. :)

So then, on Sunday, the 4th, we just took it easy. We went to church, and then ate Nachos at Daddy's house. Then I watched Independence Day at my friend's Nelly and Adam's house. Then went down to the lake, and the guys lit up some fireworks that were pretty cool. Then went to Melinda's and played games. (No pics from that though)

Then, bright and early Monday morning, I got up and went with Robbie and Lisa and hiked the 'Y'! It was the first time I've ever done it, and am glad that I now say I can. We went up so we could watch the balloon launch. It was really cool. I think though that I like it better down in the field, where all the hot air balloons are towering over you- it's a cool feeling. But I got some great pics to add to my collection from the past years. :)

So, then when I got home, I went back to bed for a few more hours.:) Alex went with some friends to watch the parade, and then walked all the way home.. I don't know why he didn't tell me- I would have picked him up.. oh well. Me and Nik went to the Festival again, and then ended up going to eat at Sammy's burger shack. It's a tiny little place, but is super good.

After that I took Nik to Daddy's, and then went boating down at Utah Lake with Nelly, Adam, and some of their friends. That was really awesome. I hope we go again this summer. (Again, forgot my camera. -_-)
After that went back to Springville and grilled hot dogs for dinner and watched the constitution movie. (Is that what it's called? I dunno.)
Then, when it got dark, my ward went up the canyon and we had a bonfire and roasted Marshmallows and ate chips and sang along with a guitar. It was great fun. :)

Me and Brady Mills

So, that was my weekend. I'm totally exhausted from it now, but it was totally worth it. I'm so thankful for my family and my friends, and that I live in a country where I get to enjoy both. Where I have the freedom to practice my own religion. Where I can get a job, or go to school. Where I can marry who I want, and be who I want. I have been given so many blessings, and many of them are due to the sacrifice our Founding Fathers made to make this a free country. I thank our Father in Heaven everyday for the wonderful things I have been given. Happy Independence Day everyone!

Some pics from the awesome weekend!

2010-07-05T18:46:00.000-07:00

These are pics from Saturday night, sitting in front of the Provo Temple, waiting for the fireworks at the Stadium of Fire to go off. We had a picnik and tossed the ol' pig skin around. My brother Nik brought his quitar and played tunes while we all sang along. It was a great evening-One of my favorite family traditions.

More to follow. :)

Colonial Bread

2010-07-02T19:05:00.001-07:00

And here's something you should try this weekend if you have time. Or just sometime. It's bread like they made in the colonial days. Cool part is there's no sugar or white flower. So it's super healthy. I haven't tried it yet- but apparently it's delicious. :) Happy 4th!
http://momof5daughters.blogspot.com/2010/07/colonial-bread-for-4th.html

God Bless the U.S.A. by Lee Greenwood

2010-07-02T18:58:00.000-07:00

Independence Day!

2010-07-02T18:08:00.000-07:00

In the United States, Independence Day, commonly known as the Fourth of July, is a federal holiday commemorating the adoption of the Declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776, declaring independence from the Kingdom of Great Britain. Independence Day is commonly associated with fireworks, parades, barbecues, carnivals, fairs, picnics, concerts, baseball games, political speeches and ceremonies, and various other public and private events celebrating the history, government, and traditions of the United States. Independence Day is the national day of the United States.
-WikiPedia

Independence Day is my absolute favoritest holiday of the year!!! Probably more than Christmas! :) Today is the 2nd, but I'm already starting my celebrations today. Tonight we're having a BBQ and then after, FIREWORKS!! Me and my brothers are home alone for the 4th this year. My mom and sister are gone in Germany. (more about that later) So, I bought tons of fireworks, and we're having friends over. I'm excited. Only problem is it's been pretty windy today.. hopefully it'll die down by the time it gets dark.
Then tomorrow we'll do a bunch of stuff with my dad and step-mom. But I'll take lots of pics and then tell about them when I post them.
Anyways- I'm proud to be an American. And am proud of what being an American stands for.
God Bless the USA!

Fixed!!

2010-06-29T15:20:00.000-07:00

Alright! I finally fixed my comments feature.. So you all can comment again! If you want... :) So, there was something I really wanted to blog about, but now I can't remember what it was.... thinking... thinking.... I can't remember! -_- oh well, if I remember, I'll come back on.

Testing testing

2010-06-26T16:59:00.000-07:00

This is a test! :)

Check it out!

2010-06-26T16:48:00.001-07:00

http://momof5daughters.blogspot.com/2010/06/mini-bread-baskets.html

Testing, 1,2,3.... I need your help!

2010-06-12T15:02:00.000-07:00

I seem to be having an issue with my comment button. If you're reading this, do me a favor and try to comment on it. If you can't, let me know. :)

E-mail me @ Jarup12@hotmail.com.

Thanks!

MOST AMAZING BLOG EVER!!!!!!!!!

2010-06-12T15:00:00.000-07:00

Hey, check out this amazing blog that teaches you how to do all kinds of things. From how to paint your toenails to how to make cute flower clips to go in your hair, to how to cook and bake. It's freakin awesome! You gotta check it out!!! :)

http://momof5daughters.blogspot.com/

Tumblr

2010-05-16T22:46:00.000-07:00

So, I found this awesome website (through my good friend Melinda)- it's another blogging website. It's called Tumblr.com. I absolutely love it. I've been using it mostly just to post my favorite pictures. Check it out, and if you like it, start your own! People use it for a lot of different things. It seems a lot use it for photography like I do. It's great to use for getting stuff out there. Blogger.com I think is a little more private, for friends and family, etc. Anyways, here it is. :)

http://lookforrainbows.tumblr.com/

Dreams...

2010-04-20T15:25:00.000-07:00

So, I am working at the mall kiosk again- and tend to get pretty bored, so I often will write in a notebook while I'm sitting there. Today I wrote about a dream that I had last night- so I'm just gonna post what I wrote.

At work once again. -_- I've only been here an hour, but it feels like an eternity. Oh well. I just keep telling myself I'm being paid, and that if I wasn't here I'd probably be stuck doing chores at home. :-D
So, I had a very.... interesting dream last night. All I can say is that if I really acted the way I did in my dream I'd be pretty screwed up- same with the rest of my family. I don't remember all the details, but I'll do my best.
So, in my dream, Kyle Korver from the Utah Jazz came to stay at our house. (Some of you may know that I find him very attractive {as do a million other girls} and the fact that he is a basketball player makes him that much more amazing.) So! In my dream, when I found out he was coming to stay with us, I was of course, ecstatic. BUT I was determined not to show it, cause I knew he got that crazy school girl reaction from every girl that crossed his path.
So, he's staying with us, and it turns out that we both get on eachother's nerves, and would constantly argue with each other. -kinda ridiculous really.- I was just really bratty and acted like I knew everything, etc. Kinda like a movie or something.
So, there was some kind of marathon coming up that me and Kristina had been training for and then Kyle Korver decided that he was gonna train with us. Which I wasn't thrilled about, but decided I would just ignore him. That is until he started taking over the training sessions, telling us what to do. Of course, I couldn't stand that, so I stopped training with them. So then, I got jealous of Kristina and how good they seemed to be getting along. (Sorry Kristina..)
So, in the meantime, my dad found out that Kyle Korver was staying with us, so he decided he was gonna stay with us too, which didn't make my mom happy- at all. I think that my other extended family was staying too. So the house was pretty crowded. Needless to say, my mom was freaking out.
So, I tried to tell my dad what he was doing was ridiculous and how it was really frustrating my mom. Then he pulls out a potted flower which turns out to be Edelweiss. He'd gotten it for my mom to try to use it as a peace offering so he could stay at the house while Korver was staying. At that point I just left my dad alone- he obviously was not thinking clearly.
Meanwhile, it was Sunday, and I needed to get ready for church, but between Kyle not leaving the family room, which I have to walk through to get to the bathroom, and the rest of the people constantly using it, it was getting to be impossible to take a shower. (I know this all sounds stupid, but when you're dreaming, things like this are really frustrating!) Plus I was trying to figure out a way to invite Kyle to church. It was a struggle cause I had been either arguing with him, or ignoring him the whole time he'd been here! Then, I wake up.......
So, that's basically it.... I know that's not a very exciting ending, but my dreams rarely resolve themselves. We can pretend that he came to church with me, got babptized and we got married. :)
So, I decided to see if I could find out what my dream means. I found a dream dictionary and this is what I found out.
Having guests means that I am ready for a big adventure.
Seeing someone famous means I'm happy.
But, seeing a white flower means I'm sad... ok?
Well, there ya go. Hope it made ya laugh. I'm still laughing at it. :)

earth album alpha - a slicker google maps + flickr mash-up

2010-03-18T08:57:00.000-07:00

earth album alpha - a slicker google maps + flickr mash-up

Growing Pains

2010-03-09T10:53:00.000-08:00

Isn't it funny, how when we are little kids, we just can't wait to grow up, so we can do whatever we want, and no one can tell us how, or when to do it. Now, I totally get what those grown-ups meant when they would say they wished they could be little kids again. :)

Back to square one...

2010-03-08T22:33:00.000-08:00

Well, most people don't know yet, because I haven't said anything, but unfortunately I lost my job last week. :( I guess the company hired more people than it could handle, and there were a ton of layoffs last Thursday.
So, I am writing, even though I know not many people read this, but for the few who do, if you hear of anything, or know of anyone who is looking to hire someone, please please please let me know. I'll do just about anything. What I've noticed in my searching for jobs the last four days, is that most people require lots of experience in whatever it is they're hiring for. Even if that is the case with a job you know about, and don't think I could do it, let me know anyways! I am ready and willing to learn new things. So if you know of anything let me know!
Thank you soo much! :)

Another blog...

2010-03-04T23:18:00.000-08:00

Check out this awesome blog I've started through another website. It's pretty cool. I"ve dedicated most of it to photography. Let me know what you think.

http://lookforrainbows.tumblr.com/

Poetry? Me?

2010-02-25T21:41:00.000-08:00

It sure is pretty out tonight. The sky isn't completely clear, but you can see the faint glimmering of the stars in the dark blue sky. Shadows of clouds as they whisp on by. Mount Timpanogos almost looks like it's glowing from all the freshly fallen snow. There's a peacefulness out there tonight that I haven't felt for several days. It calms my spirit, my soul. The last few days have seemed like chaos, just like the weather has been. Swooping down without warning on unsuspecting victims without any form of protection. But tonight is a reminder, that all is well. 'After the tribulations cometh the blessings.'

Haha, I have no idea where I'm getting this... first thoughts that came to my mind. Although I really did mean the first couple sentences about it being pretty outside. It really is awesome. I don't know if I've ever seen such a pretty night. The mountains really do look like they're glowing. :)

Hair cut!!!!!

2010-02-21T21:55:00.000-08:00

So, I decided I wanted to try a new look, so I got bangs! It's definitely a different look. A good friend at church today said she didn't even recognize me at first. :)
So, let me know what you think.

I'm On My Way

2010-01-28T18:50:00.000-08:00

Well, I am pleased to announce that I have officially completed my first goal from my list on the previous post!! Wahoo!!!!!! I'm so excited... When I got it (my job), it hadn't even occurred to me until a few days later that I have accomplished one of my goals! :)
So, the job is for a Family History/Geneology (sp?) Company called Family Link. You may have heard of the very popular Application on Facebook called 'We're related'- it is by this company! It's one of the top rated Apps on Facebook, and Family Link works with companies all over the country. They're main goal is to help families connect with each other, and to help people with doing family history. They have numerous resorces for it, so if any of you need help with your Geneology, I highly recommend you visit their website.
Now, that I've built up the company, and all of it's greatness, I'm not sure that I want to even say what it is that I do. LOL but I will. :)
So, they have all these amazing documents and records online for people to do their family history, but of course, someone has to put it there, right? Right. So that's where I come in. I get to sit in a dark little corner of the Family History section of the BYU Library, and I scan old records into the computer, which are then taken and put online, to be available to you! haha, Wow, it even sounds appealing to me, when I put it like that. :) It's nothing exciting, but they pay me pretty well, considering the type of work I'm doing. So I am content. I'm finally taking a step towards my mission!! I'm ecstatic!
Most of you know that I've been looking for employment for months now. I applied for jobs I was over qualified for, under qualified for, jobs I never in a million years would have thought I'd bring myself to apply for, but I could not get a job. I blame a lot of it on the economy- It seems like I know more people who are unemployed than who are.. (that's an exaggeration, but there sure are a lot.)
But as I've been thinking, I can't help but feel like Heavenly Father has had a hand in my life this whole time. First, in August, I had my wisdom teeth removed. I ended up getting dry sockets in both sides of my mouth, which is excruciatingly painful- and I can take my share of pain, I think, so if I say it hurts, it hurts. :)
Then in the end of October, I ended up going to Germany for a month to take care of Oma. Which I would not have been at liberty to do, if I'd had a job, or been going to school. Then, I came back, and it was the holiday season, and then three days after Christmas, I had a tonsillectomy. It took me about two weeks to recover from that-(my mouth is still a little sore) But then, less than a week later, I had a job! Technically two, but I could only take one.
The more I think about it, the more I feel like Heavenly Father had a hand in my life. All these things that I've done over the last month have helped me in preparation for my mission. I might even venture to say it's been more than just the last six months, but this whole last year. My study abroad trip prepared me, or opened my eyes, to what life is like, outside of just what I've seen with my family. I have traveled a lot, but not really without some family with me to watch over and protect me. This time, it was all me. Don't get me wrong, I loved it! But I got a little taste of missionary work I think- I know, it's not gonna be easy. :) And then all the other stuff as well. I really feel like I'm where I'm supposed to be right now. I know, I had wanted to leave sooner. Originally I wanted to already be gone, but things changed, circumstances arised, but have been overcome! I'm on my way!
I am now working about 30 hours a week, and I have an institute class every day of the week!
Again, I want all of my friends and family to know that I really have a testimony of Heavenly Father, and that he knows what's going on, and how things are going to be. I hope I will always remember that. I hope I won't ever think that 'my agenda is more important than the Lord's'. I learned that in Insititute the other day. :)
Anyways, I will keep you informed on mission updates, as they come. I love you all!
Also, I'm trying to find service opportunities. If any of you need help, or know someone that needs something, please let me know!

After my Wisdom Teeth- I only noticed, after several other embarrasing pictures, that my mother was having a mini photoshoot with me and Nik. We were both so out of it. I still laugh at it :) More pictures can be found on Facebook.

Thoughts on a sleepless night

2010-01-12T23:58:00.000-08:00

Why do I seem to be in such a hurry to get things going. For things to happen, and to finish? I'm 21, and I have this attitude that I haven't done anything with my life, and because of that, my life is a complete failure, and that it's too late for me to be able to do anything, or to make myself into something.
Laying in my bed, because I can't sleep, the thought came to me, "Julia, you're 21. You still have lots of things to do, and life to live. It's ok that you're not married yet. It doesn't mean that your life is a waste. It's ok that you haven't left on your mission yet. It will still happen, and life will continue on when you come home. It's not like you'll be 90 when you get home." There were more similar things.
But I realized that I'm in this hurry to live. Like, if I don't, then I'm wasted, and too old to do anything. Does that make sense? It probably doesn't. But it is 1 a.m. and I'm just quickly putting my thoughts down without really thinking about how I want to say it. Well, I think I might be able to sleep now.
Here's a cool song in French that I think is really pretty. I like the girl's voice. Goodnight.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vsMIuuV05uc&feature=SeriesPlayList&p=DE53A978215C0424

The Long Winding Road

2010-01-06T14:57:00.000-08:00

Well, it's been a week and a day since I had my tonsillectomy, and let me tell you, it's not been a very happy one. I've sat in my bed for most of it. Sleeping, or watching movies on Youtube, or reading articles, trying to learn something, so I could say my day was a little productive. But mostly, it was just a miserable pout fest for myself. :-S Thanks to those who called, text, etc. I appreciate your love and encouraging words.
Today I started to feel better. Not 100%, but I can definitely feel I'm on the mend. :) So, since I wasn't being total grouch, and just feeling miserable and sorry for myself, I start thinking about my last year again. It really was a great year. The time that I spent on my study abroad trip stood out. :)
I went on Facebook and looked up some of the people I met while I was in Germany. I said hello. Looked at their pictures, saw what they've all been up to. But I noticed something inside myself as I was thinking about those people and experiences. I felt this urge, this excitement, and motivation that I haven't felt in a while. This want and need to do something with my life.
I've been 21 for just over 2 months, and am nowhere close to having any kind of career, or path, or whatever you wanna call it to help me become the adult that I'm supposed to be. Those who know me well, know that this is something that I've been struggling with this for a long time now, but, I have some new goals. Well, at least some new ideas that really do inspire me to want to achieve them, but I haven't written them down anywhere yet.
So, I'm going to write them down, on here, and also print them off, and hang them up on a bulletin board I have hanging on my wall, so I'll see them often. I'm posting it here, so that whoever reads this, if they want to, can be a stand for me, to help me achieve these goals. As you read these, I ask that you help me, and encourage me to accomplish these things throughout the next year, and for some of the goals, the next several years.
After I do that, I'll probably need to make a plan. Most likely, I'll do that out on paper, and then if I feel so inclined, I'll post it as a separate post later.

So here they are:

Goal #1: Get a job

Goal #2: Save the money from that job, to go on a mission

Goal #3: Serve as a full time, worthy missionary for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints

(Obtain job, or scholarships in order to pay for all these goals.) :-S

Goal #4: Obtain Associates degree (most likely from UVU) after I return home from mission.

Goal #5: Go to Culinary Arts School to become a Pastry Chef

Goal #6: Go to school to study Photography to become a professional photographer

Goal #7: To continue traveling. (Possibly participating in more study abroad programs. We'll see)

These are my goals for the next five or so years. I know, that they aren't quite the 'lofty' goals I set for myself while I was in High School. But I've been trying to do the things I thought I would when I was in High School, and have felt absolutely no motivation at all. As a result have felt lost and unsure of myself. I've done a lot of searching inside myself, trying to discover who I am, and what I want to do and be in life- and when I think of these things, I get excited, and I see a future up ahead. I'm excited for this, and hope I can have all of you right next to me on the way.

Spare Time

2010-01-02T03:49:00.000-08:00

Well, I had my tonsils out on Tuesday, and since then, I haven't done a whole bunch out side of the four walls of my bedroom. But, I recently discovered some awesome websites for editing and oraganizing photos, and I've been having a bit of fun with what pictures are already on the computer. Here's a slide show of what I did. It's really fun to watch it while listening to music from Owl City on YouTube.

The End of a Year

2009-12-31T12:54:00.000-08:00

Who can believe that this year is over?! It certainly went by quickly for me. Much faster than I thought it would when I first started this blog back in May.
On top of it going by quickly, it was also very eventful. I was in school from January to April. Was in Germany in May and June. July was full of Independence Day celebrations, and goofing around with my friends and family. In August I had my wisdom teeth taken out.
Then October was full of birthdays, including mine. I turned 21! I can't even begin to tell you how old I feel. But for once in my life, I actually feel like I really am as old as I am.
For so many years, I've always felt like I was much younger than my actual age, and couldn't do the things that people my age actually do. For the first time, I feel like I can do the things that 21 year olds are expected to. :)
Then, in November, I was back in Germany! Got back just in time for Thanksgiving. And then the next thing I knew, it was Christmas! Now, I'm sitting in bed, blogging, because I had a tonsillectomy, and can't do much for the next several days.
So, here, I sit, on the last day of the year 2009, with a very sore throat, and grumbly stomach, writing to anyone and no one, wondering what should I write? What did I learn this year? Do I have anything to say, that might actually be worth someone's time to sit down at their computer for the next five minutes? Is this really where you want to spend your last few precious hours of 2009? :)
As I sit here, thinking about all the amazing things I've done this year, I think of all the awesome people I've met. The mistakes I've made. The goals I've set- And I constantly come back to the same thought, If there could only be one thing that I could share with all of those that I love, it would be this: I know that Heavenly Father lives, and that he loves us.
I want everyone I know, to know that I have a testimony of our Father in Heaven. He is mindful of us. He hears our prayers. Sometimes life is hard, and it feels like you're alone, and that no one really knows what's in your head. But He does. I know He does.
For all those who read this, that is the one single most important thing I've learned this year. It was a difficult journey to get to that point. Difficult, and hopeless. I honestly was at the lowest of lows, when I truely gained a testimony that God hears our prayers. All of them. And I want you all to know it.
I love you all so much. Thank you for all of your love and support. I am so eternally grateful that Heavenly Father has put you in my life.
Happy New Year!

The rest of my summer

2009-10-08T09:33:00.000-07:00

Well, it's already October, and I'm finally getting around to blogging about the rest of my summer after coming home from Germany. :-S
The 4th of July was lots of fun. We got up early to see the balloon launch down by the Provo Hospital, and then went to eat breakfast at IHOP. Then we spent the afternoon at the pool, that was really nice. And, per tradition, we went to the big field under the Provo Temple, and watched the Fireworks that go off at the Stadium of Fire. We brought a bunch of big blankets to sit on, and got some fried chicken from KFC, and had a very nice little evening, playing catch, and spending time together. It was the first time for my sister Holly to spend 4th of July with our little clan, I loved having her there, and hope she loved it too. The Oquirrh Mountain Temple was dedicated over the summer, we got to go to the open house, which was a great experience for us.
Kristina and Nik both had birthdays. Kristina turned 17 and Nik turned 16. We had a fun celebrating them. My best friend Nicole got married this summer. I went out to Oklahoma for her reception there. It was great to see her and her family again. They're all such great people. I had fun.
I also have a new step-neice and step-nephew. Mariah had Lincoln in July, and Sarah had Emma in August... I think :-S that's when they were both due, but now it seems like one of them was early or late or something... oops.
But it's been a great summer. I made a lot of new friends, and renewed some old friendships as well. It really was great! I had some really neat spiritual experiences, which I believe were to help me in my preparation for being a missionary.
That's mostly what my life is focused on now. I'm so excited to go out and serve the Lord for a year and half. I'll keep blogging, and keep things updated as much as I can until I leave. I love you all!

MOre quick blogging

2009-07-29T19:25:00.000-07:00

Here are some cool pics from Munich. That is an amazing city! I had so much fun, and I'm so glad Zac was with me to see it all! I also got to visit my Onkel Martin and his family who I met for the first time. It was cool.

Meine Familie

2009-07-05T10:14:00.000-07:00

While I was in Germany I got to visit my family that lives over there, all of whom I haven't seen in several years. It was awesome to get to spend time with my Oma, just me and here, one on one. She told me some neat stories about herself when she was a kid, and a teenager. She told me about how she and my Opa met, which was kinda cute. She said she wasn't all that interested at first, but he kept pursuing her, and eventually she agreed to go out with him, and the rest is history. :) She told me about how she and her cousing were total trouble makers when they were little, which I absolutely could not believe!
I got to see my Uhr Oma and Opa (Great Grandparents). They are both getting on in years- so I was glad I was able to see them again. My Uhr Oma hasn't been doing so well for the last few years, it was interesting to see how much she's changed from what I remember her as, when I was little. But she knew who I was, asked a couple of questions, but then went back into her normal routine. I noticed that she has sort of a one track mind. And when she wants to get somewhere or do something, there's nothing that will stand in her way. No way no how. She has a little walker she uses to get around, and man, can she book it when she's using it! I was totally shocked. She practically took out my uncle while she was walking with it. It was awesome!
I also got to meet my uncle Martin's wife and kids that I've never met before! Ping, who is from China, and Sebastian and Fabien, my two little cousins. We've talked on the phone a few times, and seen lots of pictures of eachother, but we finally got to meet! It was actually funny, my cousin Sebastian, who is 7, said that I was different than he expected me to be. I wondered if he thought that, because of his reaction when I first arrived. When I first saw him, he looked really excited, but once he saw me, the look on his face seemed kind of confused. So I asked him what he had been expecting, or how I was different. He said mostly that I was just so much bigger than he thought. They have a picture of my family that is sitting on a table in the living room, but it's a few years old now, and I think he was expecting me to look like that. I look mostly the same, just my hair is longer, and I look a little younger. But other than that he didn't really know what to say about the subject. But it was exciting to meet them, and hope to see them again very soon- hopefully here. :)
I got to visit with my Uncle Stephan up in Potsdam for a day, which was lots of fun. And then uncle Thomas, Franz, and Felix came down on my last weekend. It was good to get to see my family again. I didn't realize how much I missed them until I saw them again. And I hope I'll get to see them all again very very soon.

2009-07-03T12:34:00.000-07:00

Me and Gina in front of our school.

Melinda and Andy with the Berlin Mitte Bear. There were bears all over Berlin all decorated differently.

Dr. Packer making fun of me and Melinda's pouty faces we always make for the camera. Haha

An Unforgetable Experience

2009-07-03T11:51:00.000-07:00

There were many different museums and monuments dedicated to WW2 that we saw and visited while in Berlin. I think the one that had the most effect on me was the Haulocost Monument. It was located right behind our apartment building. Standing on the outside, you just see these big cement blocks, all different sizes, set in rows, just far enough apart for people to walk through single file. When you first walk in, you can still see above the blocks, but as you walk farther, the ground begins to slope downwards, eventually the blocks are so high, all you can see of the outside world is the blue sky up above you, and way down at the other end, too far away to really make anything out. The fround becomes very crooked, and bumpy, making it so you have to concentrate where you step so you don't fall. As I was walking through, I took a different turn from the rest of the group, and began to walk my own direction. It became extremely quiet, almost eerily so. Eventually, I decided I would rejoin the rest of the group, I didn't think it would be too hard to find them, but as I began to look, I realised I had no idea where anyone was. I couldn't hear anyone or see anyone. All I could see was the end. I decided I would walk down there, and figured I would find them when I came out. There were still some people on the other side that hadn't gone in with us, so I figured I'd be able to get my bearings, and see how much I'd turned off from the group from, and be able to find them. So, I came out, and turned around to look for a familiar person, I realised I couldn't see over to the other side! The blocks in the middle went up so high, that it was impossible to see accross to those you'd left behind. Now, I knew I wasn't lost, and that it was just a matter of a few minutes, and I would find someone again, but I have to admit, that I did feel a little bit of panic. I was all alone, and had no way of finding anyone, just to kind of sit tight and wait. It was such a strange feeling, but that is exactly what this monument is supposed to portray. Later, we discussed as a group, some of the different symbolisms this monument held. For one thing, the cement blocks gave off the impression of being coffins, they also made us think of bomb shelters. And being down inside the monument was supposed to help portray how a lot of people felt during that time in History. It really was an amazing experience. I've never quite felt so alone and lost as I did while I was alone inside of this monument. It gave a small taste of what life must have been like during that time. Feeling alone, desperate to find someone, but not having anyone to turn to for help, guidance, or direction. It's an unpleasant feeling, and one I don't think I'll ever forget.

Home Again Home Again, Jiggety Jig.

2009-07-02T07:39:00.000-07:00

Wow, it's amazing how quickly two months can pass you by. I'm back home from Germany. It's really amazing how fast the days go by. I've already been home 4 days, and feel like I got home last night. Isn't it interesting how human beings have such a small grasp on time?
Anyways, I'm planning on putting up lots of pics from my trip, and telling about my most favorite ones. :) Here I am trying on hats in one of the stores in Berlin. Melinda and I tried on a whole bunch and took pics with all of them. It was fun. Well, that's all for now. More to come, as my time allows. Life isn't all about fun vacations, and blogging you know. ;)

My first blog entry!!

2009-04-29T12:17:00.000-07:00

Well, I've decided to start a blog!! (Obviously...)
I'm not extremely familiar with Blogging, but I know a few people who do, so I will be keeping close watch on what they put on their pages to help me with ideas for mine. :)
I decided to start this blog mostly because of my big adventure I'll be going on in less than a week- to Germany! I'm going with a group from UVU for a study abroad program in Berlin where I will be studying the wonderful language of German! Haha
I'm really excited for this experience, and hope I will learn a lot. At this point I don't know how much access to a computer I will have- I might not be able to post pictures until I come back, but I'll do my best to keep this updated. :)
I love you all!