I'm home! One year of college down. I know lots of my friends will be home for the summer within the next few weeks. So here's my list of things to do instead of sitting around, being bored.

• Read. What's that, you don't like reading? You're doing it wrong. Find a book that looks interesting. I promise you'll get into it if you just find the right book.

• Play with your siblings. I have missed my sisters a lot, and Scattergories and Jungle Speed have already been played in excess.
• Find new music. I didn't have time at school to find NEW music. Now, I do:)
• Keep up with the news. Whether it be on this blog or from a news source. You need to know what's up in the world. You're an adult now.
• See some old friends. Yes, it's weird. We all have these new lives. But we can still go to lunch or have a bonfire or something.
• Find a show. I'm on Boy Meets World right now! I watch ONE episode a day. Not too much, but not nothing.

• Write. Journal, blog, whatever. Remember this time. It's crucial.
• Visit your teachers. I plan on making a few trips to dear ol' Davis in the near future and thanking all the people who made my freshman year that much easier.
• Get a job. Don't sit around the house. Make some money!
• Help your mom. She could use help with the laundry and dishes, and I'm sure you're capable of doing it.
• Organize your documents/photos. After a year of college you probably have a million documents and photos sitting around. Organize them.
• Write a missionary! I have a few favorites that I can recommend;)
• Make dinner. Give your parents the night off and whip out all those cooking skills you gained from college.
• Enjoy yourself. You have 3 months of you time. Go walking, hiking, whatever makes YOU happy. 

New York Times Headline: Colleges Adapt Online Courses to Ease Burden

Colleges are working online to make sure students are more prepared for college, as well as make sure they graduate on time. With state budgets being cut, more students are unable to get higher education. These massive online classes are being tested to help fix the higher education problems.

Click here to read the full story.

New York Times Headline: Flow of Tainted Water Is Latest Crisis at Japan Nuclear Plant

Workers in the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear district in Japan are struggling to contain radioactive wastewater. Water is pouring into the plants reactor building at an alarmingly fast rate, which contaminates the water. Workers are doing all they can to contain it.

Click here for the full story.

Finally posting about my Saint George trip! I know you've all been waiting;) But really, I have some great ideas for you if you're ever in the Saint George/Dixie area. We had a blast and wish we could go back!

Here's a few of the fun things we did:

• Ate at Paradise Cafe, their cookies are to DIE for.
• Laid out by the pool at our hotel, reading and talking about everything under the sun. I powered through a really good book called The Secret Keeper. Highly recommend it:)
• At at Camille's Sidewalk Cafe. Really good smoothies!
• Cruised around Saint George, pretending to speak other languages in drive-thrus and parking lot dancing.
• Went to Dixie Rock (beautiful view of the city) and sang hymns at the top when nobody else was there. It was a really spiritual, wonderful moment.
• Worked out (not my idea, I don't work out on vacation but some people are more fit than I am) and then jumped in the pool after. SO fun.
• Hiked in Snow Canyon. Just a few minutes away from downtown Saint George and one of the most beautiful canyons I've ever seen. The red rock was incredible, and hiking up to the top of cooled lava and petrified sand dunes was so amazing. 
• Ate some In n' Out. I don't care if you hate fast food, I promise a trip to In n' Out every once in a while is worth your calories.
• Also ate some Nielsen's Frozen Custard. Try it. I promise you'll love it. 
• Realized that cute Wendie Davis (Gabe's mom) was staying at our same hotel! She was so fun to chat with and we had a great time talking with her.
• Took a million pictures (who doesn't like to remember their vacation!)
• Had a great time with my four best friends (I also recommend this one;))

New York Times Headline: Push to Require Online Sales Tax Divides the G.O.P.

There is lots of debate going on about what is a tax increase and what isn't. Mixed with this debate is the issue of whether Internet sales tax is a tax increase for Americans. The most heavily involved group that is pro-Internet sales tax is small businesses who believe their Internet competitors have an unfair advantage.

Click here for the full story.

New York Times: With Bags of Cash, C.I.A. Seeks Influence in Afghanistan

According to Afghan leadership, millions of dollars have secretly flowed from the CIA to the hands of presidents and other leaders in Afghanistan. Apparently, this money was spent to gain the influence of the Afghan leaders and sway their decisions regarding terrorism and America. The CIA declined comment.

Click here for the full story.

I said goodbye to my friends today (for real) and now I'm officially home.


It's nice to be home!

And I miss BYU.

It's an interesting mix of feelings. Right now I don't have a minute to blog about my trip or all of the other things I want to blog about. So forgive me! But starting tomorrow, trust me. There will be lots of blog posts since all I'm doing this summer is working, reading, spending time with my family, and you've got it...blogging.


On the spiritual note, Dillon gave a fabulous farewell talk today about the restoration and how important that is to the people we are today. He talked about things we can learn from the restoration and apply to our lives. He's going to be an amazing missionary folks. Those people in Texas are lucky to get one of my best friends for two years. I love you Dil!



Happy Sunday everyone!

New York Times Headline: Europe Facing More Pressure to Reconsider Cuts as a Cure

Hey Saint George. After 9 months of nearly straight school, you're looking mighty nice. And it's even better that I get to be here with my best friends.

Coming up on the agenda of my life; vacation in Saint George, go home and be with my family, say bye to everyone for real on Sunday at Dillon's farewell, then a summer full of working, my family, and lots of reading.

Welcome to life after college.

New York Times Headline: U.S. Economy Speeds Up, but Less Than Forecast

The U.S. economy sped up in the first quarter of 2013 at a rate of about 2.5%. While this is good news, unfortunately this isn't the expected 3% growth that experts were hoping. Growth in the 4th quarter last year was incredibly slow, which may have something to do with the stunted growth of this year already.

Click here to read the full story.

Washington Post Headline: Federal Helium Program: How temporary becomes forever

Presidents since Ronald Regan have been trying to get rid of the federal helium program. This program is left over from the age of zeppelins but has been kept around based on the "what-if we need it" argument. There are plans to finally get rid of this program, but the House is likely to vote on Friday to keep it around. This allows the government to keep its foot in the door of the helium business, and continue to profit on the sale of helium to U.S. companies. 

Click here to read the full story.

So this is the last goodbye. Goodbye to BYU, freshman year. It's been an incredible 9 months, and I have made so many memories that I will never let go of.

I can't even begin to document the things I've learned or the memories I have, so suffice it to say that BYU freshman year was one of the best things that has ever happened to me. I'm currently in Saint George with my four best friends and don't have time to be all nostalgic about BYU at the moment.

So let's just stop dragging it out and do this.

Goodbye BYU. Goodbye freshman year. Goodbye to all the things I learned (which will be shared in a later post for my high school friends moving on to college, don't you worry;)) Goodbye to all the mistakes I made and the things that I finally got right. Goodbye to the first time for so many things and the last time for so many things.

See you in four months BYU, I'll be missing you.



On a separate note, I'm currently in Saint George with those four girls who make everything great. Get excited for some great adventures!

So I'm sure most of you are really sick of my goodbyes. But since this blog is my journal I have to record everything, even the things that aren't super popular to the 3 readers....:)

Anywho I promise this long string of goodbyes is almost over. I just had to spend a second blogging about my very best friends. Tomorrow we are taking off to Saint George for a few days of fun and sun and just us. It's going to be amazing:)

So let's do this cool little listy thing that ya'll are probably sick of by now.

Rachel. Yes she gets two little paragraphs because she's my roomie AND a best friend/Fat Five girl. Rachel and I weren't immediate friends. We liked each other but I don't think either of us saw a long term friendship. Now I can't imagine what the rest of college would be like without her. Rach loves crazy music and dancing, being wild and weird, but she also loves chilling on a Friday night and having a low-key night just talking. Rachel is SO LOUD but I love that about her. Rach is smart even though she doesn't think she is. Rachel sat and cried with me about Randy and is always happy for me when I get a letter or email, and even plays our song;) (everything is great, everything is grand, I got the whole wide world in the palm of my hand...). She is one of the most generous people I know and loves helping other people. She's herself 100% and honestly doesn't care if people don't like that. People may think they know her, but I think I know her better than all of them. So Rach, thanks for the brownie/cookie dough/cake mix nights, sleeping on the mega bed and the couch and in your bed, figuring out what to say to boys that are texting us, movie nights up the wazoo, good chats about the gospel, crepe parties, dancing on the table and whipping your hair, sharing your clothes with everyone, not showering for days at a time and still looking amazing, temple trips, being loud and crazy early in the morning, jamming in the car, and a million other things that would take way too long to write. I love you Rach and I don't know how to live without you for 4 months. I am so glad we have next year though! I LOVE YOU. Even when you're a rake;)


Sarah Ramsay. So sometimes we make fun of Sar and call her Barbie. Because she is beautiful. And she's smart. And she's so funny and crazy. I love how Sar logically thinks things through, and then the next minute just says OK let's just do this! She is spontaneous but thoughtful. It's a good mix. Sar puts a lot of pressure on herself, which is why she is good at so many things. She always says HEY MADS when she walks in and I love knowing that she's glad I'm there. Sarah isn't always the most emotional person, but when I have a problem I know I can go to her and she'll be there for me and help me be rational about it. Sar loves having fun and is always cooking up crazy things for us to do. She's stubborn, which I think is one of her best qualities. She works hard for what she wants, and then she gets it. Sar is always herself, and doesn't let other people get to her. She's a very genuine person, when she compliments you, you know it's for real. She's not fake even a little bit. She also can see the good in people, which is something else great about her. So Sar, thanks for the crazy singing, the breakdowns, the lists of what you ate that day, the movie nights where we screamed when something scary happened, the talks when both of us are stressed about things, the study parties in the activity room/hallway/couch, the secrets we shared, the cabin adventures, the trips in the Jeep, the good advice you always give me, the constant need to want your room clean, the jam sessions and the crazy times we have at dances, and so many other things. I love you so much Sar and I am SO LUCKY you are living with me next year!


Lauren. Lauren is one of the most unique people I know. She is very much her own person, and likes it that way. Lau is so talented but doesn't brag, and sometimes doesn't even realize how talented she really is. She is hilarious and makes me laugh all the time, and she doesn't even have to try to be funny to do it. Lau works so hard to get what she has, and that's why she values the things she has so much. Lauren is always available for great advice, and she and I have amazing conversations. In a lot of ways we are completely the same, and in other ways we're total opposites, which makes things fun. Lauren listens to her heart more than anyone I know, which is why she is so herself all the time. She makes me feel important and loved, which is something I adore about her. Lau, thanks for the deep talks, all the times you came and ate my dinner, letting us come watch you dance, your crazy games and schemes for our weekends, all our Spark runs, dressing classy and making me jealous, our funny nap times, all your stories, us figuring out what to do about all the boys in love with you, the times we cried together, for getting what I was going through, how you act when you're tired, the times you made me edit your papers, helping us find fun places in Provo, our Thai food obsession, all the hair dye excursions, the way you're straight up about EVERYTHING, your funny one liners that have become catch phrases, and for being one of my best friends. I love you and I know we're friends for life, even though you'll be gone for a few months.



Alli. Ok so Alli is the sweetest human. We first bonded over her feeling like a horrible person for eating a candy bar off a table at a party, and worried that it was someone else's candy bar. Alli is loyal to her friends no matter what. I have never had to worry that Alli was saying something mean about me That's just not who she is. She cares so much about other's feelings, and helps me remember that I should do that too. She and I have had some amazing times together and I love her with all my heart. Alli is smart and beautiful even though she won't admit it. Alli is honest and sincere, but loves to have fun. She has her priorities straight (unlike me,) but still manages to find time to be there for me whenever I need it. So Allison Yost, here's to sleeping together in a twin bed on many occasions, staying up WAY too late because you have this no need to sleep thing,  you're breakdowns where you are laughing and then crying, "I don't know how to help you..," our talks about your boy problems, trips to the temple, your dedication to Lent, our talks about missions and the gospel, being way too busy but still finding time to make me laugh, movie nights, always being the first one to come help me when you know I'm upset, the cute notes you left for me, us forcing you to come places and you being a good sport about it, your love for your family that inspired me, for coming to me for advice even though I'm horrible at advice, and for supporting me the way a best friend should. I love you Al and not knowing when I'm going to see you again is horrible. But I know we're going to stay friends no matter what.



These girls are my people. I have so many memories with them and I feel like I've known them a lifetime. I know a summer, or 18 months, or longer, won't keep us from being best friends. These girls know me better than almost anyone, and the person I am today is mostly because of who they are. So girls, thanks for teaching me what friendship is. Thanks for the good times and the bad times, and the way we got through everything together. Fat five forever? I think so.

So there's a long post coming about my amazing friends, but there are a few other people who need some recognition for making this first year of college awesome.

First off, my family. They are amazing folks. I call my mom ALL THE TIME and she always knows what to say. My dad sends me sweet emails that remind me I'm not alone, and my sisters are always so happy to see me when I visit. My brother and sister in law are so sweet and bring me treats and make me feel like I have some solid people in Provo to rely on, because I do. So yeah, my family rocks and I couldn't have done this first year without them.


Kara. What an awesome girl. She's one of the nicest people I know and always made me feel loved and appreciated. I hope to be more like her one day.

My Relief Society presidency. Sarah, Shannon, and Maryann. You guys are amazing. I couldn't have done this year without you. They are three of the greatest people on the planet and Heavenly Father knew I really needed them this year.


Last but not least, Randy Low. From playing with me all first semester, to still being my best friend thousands of miles away, this guy is the best. I am so lucky to have him in my life, and proud to call him my best friend. He's been there for me this entire first, stressful year of school, and I am so blessed.

So thanks to these amazing people who made this first year at BYU perfect.

I didn't get around to the news today...sue me. But really don't sue me.

Today I packed up my car and took most of my stuff home. It is so weird to have my closet at home full again, to have my pictures on my table and my shoes on the floor. I'm really happy to get to be with my family again, but at the same time I am so sad to be leaving my home in Provo. My roommates are some of the best girls that I know and I'm so sad to be leaving them. They have really become some of my closest friends and I'm quite sure we're going to stay friends forever.

Jett is one of the funniest people I know. She is always cracking jokes and making everyone around her happy. Jett has such a strong testimony and is going to change lives in Brazil. Jett is so caring and always asks about the details of my life, and then listens to me blab on. She knows how to have fun and is always the life of the party. I love you Jett and I am going to miss you so much!

Rebecca is so classy and punny! Rebecca loves to make people laugh and then make them food. She is hilarious and knows how to perfectly place a good line that makes everyone crack up. Rebecca and I are alike in lots of ways, mainly the love of baking, old movies, and all things classy. I can't wait to play with that girl all next year at Liberty and keep having the time of our lives. I love you so much Rebecca!!!

Kathryn is honestly one of the sweetest people alive. She puts up with all of our craziness all the time and still likes us (right Kathryn?). Kathryn is funny, but not many people know that. She can say the funniest things at the perfect moment and we'll be talking about it for days. Kathryn has been an amazing mom to us this year, and I know she's going to do amazing things for the people in the Philippines. Thanks for crying and laughing with me Kathryn, I love you and I'm going to miss you so much!

Rachel. Where do I even start with her? Rachel is crazy and fun and pulls me out of my comfort zone, which I love. She loves having a good time and is good at making everyone happy. She is so caring and always makes me feel better when I'm down. Rach is so much more than most people see, and when she gets in her serious moments, she's one of the most spiritual, genuine people out there. She has really become one of my very best friends and I can honestly say that so much of who I became this year is because of Rachel. I love you so much Rach and I don't know how we can be apart for four months:(

And last but not least, Heidi. Heidi was seriously the best bedmate that a person could ask for. She made me feel better all the nights when I cried and was sad, laughed with me over all the funny and crazy things of college, and just sat with me saying nothing when both of us needed it. Heidi is going to knock those Frenchies socks off in Paris for the next 18 months. I am going to miss her and our Disney sing alongs and our deep discussions. I love you so much Heidi! Come back soon ok?

Those are my amazing roomies. I'm going to miss them and our baking frenzies, dinner discussions, quote wall, movie nights, Sunday creeping, 2:00 am laughing fests, the magnet in the door, the bustling apartment because we always have guests, mega beds, lazy afternoons where we share our snacks, getting ready together in the mornings, and so much more. I love you girls of 3102 so much and I am so blessed to know you!


We're cute


This is us...


Love you girls!!

Happy Tuesday everyone!

I have an amazing family, they really are the best. But here at school, I've had a pretty amazing substitute family. FHE seven, or The Jaredites as some like to call us, is seriously the best. Every single member of our family is awesome and I am so sad that I have to say goodbye to them. Our last family night is tonight, and I really don't even want to think about it. We've had some awesome times together, and I am going to miss every single one of the people that have become brothers and sisters, or mom and dad, to me.

So family, here's to ugly sweaters, the boys always being late, crazy games of spoons, amazing testimony meetings, hide and seek on campus, hanging out together every day, way too many Oreos, the Jesus mosaic, our hilarious Valentine's excursion, fighting over Skittles, In the Arms of the Angels, dead puppies, interpretive dancing, being the Shiz, priesthood blessings, not being able to make it through a song or prayer without laughing, singing the Primary songs for Marissa, our AWESOME funeral, nuggeting someone every single FHE, never telling a lie, endless YouTube videos, even more Oreos (yes I already said Oreos. We ate a lot of Oreos.), amazing temple trips on Thursday nights, the lady that told us we were not dressed appropriately, and yet again, Oreos.

Here's to Ian, one funny guy and an amazing dad. Ian always knows how to make the girls feel special and says the craziest things that keeps our family laughing. I'm going to miss him and I wish him all the best in California on his mission!

Here's to Jack, one classy guy who loves to crack jokes and keeps our family on their toes. Jack is one of my very best guy friends  here at school and I'm going to miss him like crazy. Jack knows how to get the party started and is such a good friend to everyone. Love you Jack! Good luck in Argentina!

Here's to Kurtis, one of the funniest people I know. Kurtis is crazy and unique and never afraid to be himself. He's genuine and real and when Kurtis says something nice to you, he means it. Kurtis is one of those people that you love having as a friend simply because you have no idea what he's going to do next. I love you Turtis! (Don't hate me:)) and good luck in Brazil!

Here's to Lincoln who is so confusing, but funny and sweet at the same time. Lincoln and I could have deep talks about anything, and then the next minute he would be making fun of me or cracking jokes. Lincoln is going to do awesome things with his life simply because he goes for what he wants. Which is something I really admire about him. Love you Lincoln! And good luck freezing in Russia!

Here's to Cole who has become one of my closest friends. Cole is quiet at first, but once you get to know him he's cracking jokes or voicing his opinion about everything. He's so smart and so caring of others, and honestly doesn't really care what people think about him. He's always himself and that's more than enough. He's one awesome guy and I'm going to miss him! I love you Cole and have fun in Brazil with Kurtis:)

Here's to Dylan. Basically I don't know where I would be without this kid. Dyl is probably my best guy friend here at school, and he is like a big brother to me. He's so sweet and fun, and is always looking out for me. He brings me food and notes just because, and treats me so much than I deserve. He's such a fun loving guy who is mature and ready for the next adventure in life. He's one of the most spiritual people I know and those great folks in Guatemala aren't going to know what hit them! Dylan Sawyer is going to do great things, mark my words. I love you Dyl and I am so lucky to call you my best friend.

Here's to Marissa who was absent a majority of the time (boyfriend or something...) but when she did come to FHE she made it so much fun! Marissa is sweet, smart, and ambitious. That girl is going places. She's confident and absolutely beautiful and I have loved having her as my FHE sister. I love you girl and I'm going to miss you!

Here's to Cadedra who was always ready with a witty remark or a funny thought. She's fun and sweet and really cares about people. Cadedra has one of the biggest hearts of anybody I know and is very sure of herself, which is something I love about her. I love you hon and I better see you next year!

I'm not going to write huge long things about my actual roomies yet, even though they're in our FHE family. Don't you worry, it's coming:)

Sorry this was crazy long, but you probably just skimmed it anyway;) I just had to document these important people so that I would always remember. Anywho...

I'm done with finals. Happy Monday everyone!

New York Times: Suspects Seemed Set for Attacks Beyond Boston

The two suspects of the Boston bombings, one of whom was killed in a chase and another who is now in police custody, were suspected of having other attacks planned. Police and FBI also are working with the Russian government to see if the two acted on their own, or if they were working for a group or individual

Click here to read the full story.

New York Times Headline: Cancer Centers Racing to Map Patients’ Genes

There seems to be an arms race over cancer. Competing companies are spending millions of dollars, finding new recruits every day, and spending time and effort mapping patients' genes, hoping to crack the cancer mystery before their competitors. 

Click here to read the full story. 

So today was the last Sunday in college. It was probably one of the saddest things that has ever happened to me. I honestly love my ward so much and I am so sad to say goodbye to these people. They have become some of my best, closest friends in the whole world and I wouldn't be the person I am without them. I have become closer to these people in the past few months than I could have ever imagined, and I am proud to say they're my ward family. We have our disagreements and fights, just like any ward, but in the end I couldn't ask for a better group of people to spend my Sundays, and lots of days in between, with.

We have the best leaders and advisers in the whole world and I love each and every one of them!

So 55th ward, here's to date minutes, the gift of tongues, success, Santa Baby, the Hulk, pictures of Kurtis, break the fast, the wiggley microphone, our family being the Shiz, spoon assassin, finding the right shoe/tie, singing happy birthday in the weirdest ways, snaps, ALOHA, testimony bingo, jars of beans, ward council, pulling talks out of our sleeves, Nebraska being nothing (not really Sar. Love you!), the Dastrup's cute love, grounding Rachel from snap chatting, singing with the ward choir (once), setting up chairs by myself before Relief Society, presidency meetings, claiming our rows, late night talks, ward prayer, one and fun, and a million other things that I love about the 55th ward.

So here's to you all, and all the amazing things you taught me. Trust me, this isn't a ward I will ever forget.


Presidency:) Love them


At the ward day trip!


Family:)


 Bishop's house


My people:)

Happy Sunday everyone. And goodbye to the best YSA ward imaginable.

So today I say goodbye to my classes. I have loved going to school at BYU. My professors, classmates, and even the homework, have been wonderful. I'm going to miss the classes I've been taking and the people I've met. I'm going to miss Dr. Parry's lectures and Dr. Gee's iClicker quizzes about which celebrity he looks the most like. And Brother Walz, the man who made me feel confident about going into broadcasting. I'm going to miss him too. A lot. Having Brother Griffin teach me life long lessons from the Book of Mormon is something  I'm going to miss so much too.

Classes at BYU are hard. The tests are hard (as seen by my score on my Book of Mormon test....I mean it's the Book of Mormon. I thought I knew it....) but so rewarding. There's something so exciting about spending the good part of an evening writing a news conference and having Brother Walz tell you it looks awesome, or walking into a physical science test and actually understanding the questions!

So the moral of the story is, I am glad for my four month break from school, but I know that after a few weeks I'll miss the large auditoriums and small cozy lab sections and asking the same questions to the person you're sitting by, since you sit by someone new every single time. I have loved my classes at BYU this year, and I'm excited to see what next year brings!!

So today is the first day of finals. Bleh. Even more bleh? Having to move soon. I'm not going to be permanently back in Kaysville for another week, but I wanted to start my long string of goodbyes now, so there isn't a huge blog post of all the things I want to say! So instead, you lucky readers get a few shorter blog posts all charged with emotion and mostly sadness.

Today, goodbye to my apartment. I love my apartment so much. I love my room and how it feels like me, I love how messy the vanity is with six girls getting ready every day, I love how Rachel's room smells, I love our kitchen with the dishes never done and something always smelling good, I love our living room and borrowed furniture, I love our not tacky TV stand, I love our quote wall and the posters of other countries, I love our $400 dollar chairs that look like they're from the D.I., I love our elevator and Sylvia the lady who talks to us, I love the scary hallway to the laundry room, I love that our apartment is home to lots of other people, how it's always full of life, I love the magnet (if you know what I mean.... :)), I love stairwell where we fall over and laugh way too often, I love the activity room where we all met after school and started becoming friends, I love the hallway where we go after curfew, I love the cut out door where I had a few goodnight kisses, I love turret window where we people watch WAY too often, I love the memories that fill this apartment and how he is literally everywhere, I love the way it feels to walk into the building early in the morning and how sleepy it is, I love the sleepovers we've had in the living room and in Rachel's room and in my room, I love how on Sunday while we're all getting ready there's church music playing, I love the deep discussions we have early in the morning, I love all the dinners we had together, I love the laughter that echoes off the walls early in the morning, I love the broken stools, I love my desk and how it's happy and full of love, I love running down the long hallway after something great happened, I love getting picked up by Randy in the front of the building, and how Gabe and Cade would pull over the curb in the back to pick us up, I love the courtyard where we lay out and play games, I love the music that is always playing in this apartment, I love the feeling of perfection for two minutes after cleaning checks, I love that I can walk into the living room and 99% of the time someone who doesn't live here is out there, and I love how this has become home.





That was long....whew! But really. I love this apartment and how safe and comfortable I feel here. It's going to be weird moving back home. Don't get me wrong, I'm really excited, but there's something about this place that's home. And it's weird to think about leaving.

Stay tuned for tomorrow where we say goodbye to...classes!

New York Times Headline: Dragnet Shuts Boston; One Suspect Is Slain but Second Man Is on Loose

A police officer and a Boston bombing suspect are both dead after a chase this morning. The streets of Boston were in a state of emergency as police officers require residents to stay indoors with the doors locked. Police believe the other suspect is the dead man's brother and are on the lookout for him.

Click here to read the full story.


New York Times Headline: Brothers Seen as Good Students and Avid Athletes

The brothers that are currently suspect of the Boston Marathon bombings, both immigrated from Kyrgyzstan or another country in the region.  Police are trying to figure out how two quiet immigrants evolved to terrorists. Now that one brother is dead, that may be even harder to do.

Click here to read the full story.

My best friend has been gone for 100 days. And it's been some of the hardest days, but also some of the best days, of my life. Hard because I can't pick up the phone and tell him every funny, weird thing that has been going on, or make him take me to Chili's again for chips and salsa and cake, but good because I've learned so much about myself and I love watching him grow and watching myself grow too. Sometimes being independent is nice. I've gotten to go on some awesome dates and meet awesome people that I may not have met otherwise. And who knows how it's all going to end up, but right now I know that everything that has happened and everything that is going to happen is the right thing, and in the end everything will happen how it should.

I feel like I post something about Randy every other day and some of you are probably sick of it or think it's crazy. But I'm going to brag about him because he's my best friend and I am so proud of him and what he's doing!

So here's to Randy and his first 100 days as a missionary. He's done some crazy things, and already has blessed so many people's lives, including mine.

New York Times Headline: Ruins Searched for Firefighters After Blast at Factory Kills as Many as 15

I had an experience over the past few days that made me realize a few things, things I wanted to share.

Girls, this is especially for you.

You don't have to settle. And you may think that all guys are a certain way and you have to put up with them. That's not the case at all. Yes, you will have to compromise and learn to love their flaws and things like that, but you do not have to settle. You don't have to be with someone who doesn't treat you right. Ever.

I have the most amazing guy friends in the whole world who are constant reminders to me that I can be with someone who respects me, wants to do things for me, wants to listen to me, wants to cheer me up, and wants to be there for me. So thanks Spencer and Dylan and Trev and Jack and Dillon and Cole and Lincoln and Kurtis and Gabe and Cade and Michael and especially you Randy Low. And all you other guys that I didn't mention. Thank you for being the reminder that there are good guys out there.

So ladies, don't you dare waste a second with someone who doesn't treat you the way you deserve. You don't have to be with a guy who makes you feel bad about yourself, and more importantly you SHOULDN'T be with a guy who makes you feel like that. Guys are always saying "Nice guys finish last" and if we show them that the nice guys are what we really want, they'll all have to start being nice, right?



Wait for the right guy, and don't settle for anything less.

Happy Wednesday everyone!

New York Times: Background Checks in Peril as Reid Backs Gun Curbs

Nevada Senator Harry Reid, the majority Senate leader, said today that he would vote for a ban on assault weapons, breaking his long ties to the NRA. He said that there needs to be a balance between the right to have a weapon, and the right for every child in America to be safe. This changes the gun debate and the outcome is now very unsure.

Click here for the whole story.

New York Times: Secret Service Cites Suspicious Material in Letter to Obama

A suspicious envelope addressed to President Obama was intercepted by the secret service yesterday. The envelope which is now being tested for suspicious substances, looked similar to a letter addressed to a Republican Senator that tested positive for ricin. 

Click here to read the full story.

I know there have been so many social media posts and tweets about Boston and everything, I just wanted to add my sympathies to those who were there and those who had family who were there. I can't even imagine what could possibly motivate someone to want to hurt people like that. It's beyond anything I can comprehend. Today I am grateful for knowing that the Church is true, that families are forever, that we have a loving Heavenly Father who will make everything alright in the end.


On another note, yesterday I had the highest blog readership EVER. By a lot. So thank you for keeping up with this blog and supporting this crazy goal of mine. I appreciate it:)


On another note, yesterday Sarah and I watched Safe Haven. It was SO scary. But so good. It was kind of perfect to watch it after the Boston Marathon bombings, because in it one of the guys is crazy and wants to hurt people, but there are so many other good people that make life as good as possible. I really needed that reminder; that while there are so many bad people in this world who do things I can't and won't understand, there are so many good people who do things out of kindness and love and sympathy. There are good people and good thoughts, not everything is bad and ugly.

I am so glad for the safety and security I feel, and I can only hope that others will be able to feel that safety and security too.
Happy Tuesday everyone.

New York Times: No Suspects Yet; Among the Dead Is an 8-Year-Old Boy

The White House reaction is that the bombs in Boston were an act of terror. Two people were killed, and more than 80 were injured, with at least a dozen with amputated limbs. The sites are closed, and planes are being redirected to not be allowed to fly over the area.


Read the full story here.

I am incredibly saddened by these events, and my heart and prayers go to those who were involved, as well as their families.

Boston Marathon bombs kill 2, hurt more than 20

Two explosions heard at the Boston Marathon near the finish line. There are reports of injuries. 

Read more: http://usnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2013/04/15/17764747-witnesses-2-explosions-heard-near-finish-line-of-boston-marathon?lite


Look for more info as it comes in!

So lots of thoughts going around in this little brain today.

Basically I'm confused....
But I'm pretty sure I know what I'm supposed to do...
But I'm still confused...
Which is confusing.
Too many things to try to explain right now so I'm just going to post some of my favorite quotes and hope that they help me connect the dots. And hopefully you like them:)

New York Times Headline: Rifts in Both Parties Complicate Odds for Gun Measure

It's almost here. Finals start next week. I'm not ready at all. I'm not ready for finals, I'm not ready to move out, I'm not ready to say goodbye to the people who have become my best friends. But time has this funny way of moving on even when we don't want it to. In some ways I'm glad that time is going by (for obvious reasons) but on the other hand, time going by means more goodbyes and more change and moving around and getting used to places and then leaving them.

Anyway enough of this depressing rant. What we have here is a LIST of things you NEED for finals week to go smoothly. Trust me!

1. Healthy food. You're going to be cramming and going crazy. Don't eat out every meal. Spend an hour making something healthy, drink lots of juice and EAT YOUR VEGETABLES.

2. While healthy food is important, having some treats you love are important to. Buy your favorite treats ahead of time and have them laying around when you're going crazy with stress. They'll relax you!

3. Make a playlist. Have some kind of studying that you can do to music and have it ready for when you study.
4. Take breaks. Frequently! Have a twenty minute episode of your favorite TV show ready to go for a break.
5. Don't stay up late studying. You won't remember anything you studied. Stay up late having fun, get plenty of sleep, then spend your morning and afternoon studying.
6. Know what days you are taking your finals so you know what order to study in. Study for the first tests first....yeah? Makes sense.
7. Get ready for the day. Yeah this sounds stupid, but you'll be more productive if you actually get a little ready for the day.
8. Get outside. Yeah welcome to Provo it's still semi-cold. Just go for a walk and get outside for a little bit to take your mind off studying.
9. Have fun! Don't hole yourself up in your room the whole time. Study, yes, play, yes. You can make time for both, I promise.
10. Do your best. If you study and try your hardest, you'll get the grades you've been working for.

Happy Saturday everyone! And happy 13th to me:)

Yesterday we went and saw 42. For those of you who don't know (like I didn't until about an hour before the movie) 42 is a movie about Jackie Robinson, the first African American man to play in Major League Baseball. 42 is Jackie Robinson's number. It's the only number in baseball that is retired by every single team.

Can I just say, the movie was incredible. The actors (Yes Harrison Ford was in it, and yes I am slightly in love with him even though he's old) the dialogue, the action, everything was perfect. When I go see movies like that it makes me so sad about the past, but so hopeful for the future. It helps me see that someone can make a difference, that things can change for the better, and every individual matter. When I go see historical movies like that it makes me want to learn all I can about the people who  the stories are about. Ask my friends, they'll tell you. For instance, in Europe I almost bought several books about Queen Elizabeth because I was so fascinated about her. But that's a different story.

So the moral of the story is that you should go see 42. It's an incredible story about a man that we don't hear enough about.




Trust me, go see it. Even if you don't like baseball (but really who doesn't like baseball. It's the American pastime.) It'll make you look at things so differently.

WARNING if you go see this movie there is some profanity and especially lots of use of the N word. They do not condone the use of this word at all, but just be aware that it's in there.

New York Times Headline: Rare Accord in Gun Debate on Fixes to Mental Health System

Again, there's not really anything crafty or delicious to blog about. And my life has been crazy crazy crazy but it's the boring kind of crazy, so there's not much to blog about there....so I thought I'd just blog about a few things that I've been figuring out the past few weeks. Nothing major, but I need to get some of these things out, somehow, right?
.

• You can feel closer to someone who's thousands of miles away than anyone close by.
• Music is the best therapy.
• The family size bags of Hugs/Kisses is worth the money, guaranteed!
• When you are excited to go to a class and do the work for it, you know you're in the right place.
• Sometimes you have to be yourself, and own it, no matter what other people think or say.
• It's important to remember that life is short, so apologize now and forgive now and don't stay mad. It's not worth it.
• You can go to the airport and pretend you're picking up a Swedish foreign exchange student. I would actually recommend this, it's quite fun!
• Two is better than one. Take that as you will!
• College is stressful, but so much fun. Wouldn't trade it for a minute.
• If you try hard enough you can eat more than your weight in sugar daily. But you have to be willing to work for it.

• Welcome to America Lyska! Or welcome back from California Alli...either one works

Washington Post Headline: North Korea’s threats, campy videos are drawing Internet attention

New York Times Headline: Senators Reach Bipartisan Deal on Checks of Gun Buyers

Earlier today, both Republican and Democratic senators reached a compromise measure about gun safety. The measure involves expanding background checks to those buying guns from gun shows and online. This compromise indicates that more gun safety measures will be taken by Congress in the near future.

Click here to read the full story.

New York Times Headline: South Korea and U.S. Gird for Missile Test by North Korea

The U.S. and South Korea are on the lookout for the North Korean missile that experts believe could be launched "at any time now." This longer range missile could have the potential to hit not only South Korea, but also Japan, as well as American military bases as far away as Guam.

Click here to read the full story.

It's official, bring on month 4! Randy's been out three months now, and they've been so hard but so great! He's learning so much and I'm learning so much, and I'm loving being independent and being a crazy college girl! It's so awesome. I am so proud of that boy and the person he's becoming:)

As a crazy college girl, I cook for myself. Domestic right? So last night I made one of my favorite rice dishes and it's always a hit at our apartment, so I thought I'd share it here! Presenting.....

Basic Rice Pilaf

Carrots, onions and butter all in the pot getting ready to cook!

New York Times Headline: Obama Invokes Newtown Dead in Pressing for New Gun Laws

This weekend was so much fun and there is so much to tell!

Friday we had a murder mystery dinner date. Sounds crazy right? Yes. It was crazy. But it was SO MUCH FUN. Basically we were playing clue but we were all dressed like a character from the 20's and all had goals and items that would help us get our goals. There was lying and cheating and alliances and backstabbing and a little bit of romance here and there. Fun right? It was.

Me and my girls, all dressed up and ready to go:)

I went with Hunter Fowers which was a blast! All in all, one of the best dates I've ever been on.

For our murder mystery dinner we had twice baked potatoes, barbecue chicken, and chocolate cake. It was quite delicious!

Twice Baked Potato Recipe

Ingredients:
As many potatoes as you want to have
Sour Cream
Cheese
Milk

Bake your potatoes on 350 in the oven for about one hour. Once the potatoes are soft when pricked with a fork, pull them out of the oven. Cut the potatoes in half and then scoop out all the white. Don't rip the peel when doing this, just get as much of the potato out as you can. Mash the potatoes with milk and sour cream (a splashes of milk and a few spoonfuls of sour cream). Whip or mash until smooth and not lumpy. Don't add too much milk and sour cream or it will be too thin! Should be the consistency of mashed potatoes. Top with cheese and put back in the oven until cheese is melty and potatoes are warm through.

And VOILA. Twice baked potatoes!



Last thing of the weekend! I got to spend time with my family playing volleyball and badminton and everything, and that was so fun! I got to see my cousins and grandparents which is always a treat. I got to spend some time with Randy's family, which is always so much fun. I got to watch General Conference which was AMAZING! There were so many talks that were exactly what I needed to hear, and I love that we get to hear from our prophet's every six months. I am so lucky to know what I know, to have heard what I heard this weekend, and to continue to getting to learn and grow in the gospel every day.

Happy Monday everyone!