Frog pond Skating- yay winter!!

Yay!! I love Boston in the winter. It smells like snow always and it's just beautiful! Tonight I went on a blind date with my new friend Jeremy. We doubled with Katasha and Tim (who are in love long time). It was so fun. We went to the frog pond skating rink in the Boston common. It's so christmasy because all the trees around the rink have beautiful lights on them, and there's a big Christmas tree in the middle of the common with lights on it. It's just beautiful. And I really do love ice skating so much. I never go unless it's the holidays but I love going really fast and working on spins and stuff. It's just fun. I'm excited to have a round at the Murray rink in a couple days!!! yay!!
Tasha and Tim!!



Tasha and ME


Me and my awesome DATE!!



We were danseen


Tim busting some serious moves

Look at how cute!!

Look!! I found this today in my iphoto. I get to see her in like 5 days!!! I'm so excited to go home!

FINALS WEEK

It's finals week and I come home in ONE WEEK!! I'm so excited to see you all!!!!
People I MUST hang out with:
-Family (first and foremost)
-Ellen's friends (you know who you are)
-the Marsh family
- the "Y" guys (devotional? yes no?)- o and I'd love to meet Grant's fiance!!!
-Angela Garrett- and her FIANCE!!
-All members of the Brown fam
-Jesse Ward
-Chase Arnold
-All boston folk
-Cirby Lee
-Dan
-Camilla Olsen
-EMILY BOURNE- hello not like this summer
-SAMANTHA CHRISTENSEN STANTON!!!!!!!!
-Christine xavier Carruth Frandsen!!
more to come.....
Places:
-home
-mountains
-Nature center
-downtown (lights!!!!!!)
-Brown, Garrett, Irion homes
-Scone cutter with Richard

Murray-town

Hey that last post was real intense- I promise I'm not that convicted about EVERYTHING I do. Today I was looking at some pictures of a family friend from when they were little. It was someone who went to the same high school I did, so a lot of the people in his childhood pictures are people I know and love. And I know I'm in Boston and I love it here and I'm really becoming "a woman" out here, learning how to be independent and rely more on myself and my Savior and all that. But I've been here three years now and I have to say, I don't think I'll ever stop missing Murray. There is something there that just doesn't exist any where else. I miss it. I love it. I wanna raise my family in that feeling. So here's to all the Murray kids- I love you guys!

Me and Jeff-favorite pic of us





Yes farewells~ Everyone's coming home so soon!!




Shupe, Dan, Lauren






Sister- I love your friends.
Ry guy and Christine!!!
My favorite (blurry) picture of me and Kell- o I miss you girl




Ben in our house :)
Ell and I at the Bagelry- may it rest in peace :(

Why I believe in Abstinence before marriage...a few reasons among many many others

Last night I had an awesome time hanging out with some friends from school, we made dinner and watched some disney magic (beauty and the beast ;) ). It was so awesome, we didn't do anything huge just spent time together eating and talking. Seriously, that's where it's at. Having good relationships with people you love. That's really the purpose of life- to know and love people.

Now, this is kind of an interesting way of stating one's belief and knowledge of something so important to them, but I felt that this was an indirect way of expressing something with out having things misconstrued as judgement of anyone who believes differently or any greater amount of love for someone who believes similarly. I do my best to love everyone as equally as I can (of course I'm human- some people are harder than others...) and to avoid judging anyone unfairly. That being said I want to clarify my stance on a couple things that came up in discussion while I was spending time with some classmates.

I want to bear my testimony that God lives. As our culture and government slowly comes closer and closer to secularism being the state religion, the belief in God and religious practices are considered less and less legitimate as basis for life choices, goals, and political viewpoints. A firm belief in God becomes more and more an idea for the minority and may be seen as weak or illogical. Despite this new norm, I know that I have seen God's hand in my life. He is real. He is our Father. He loves me and you more than we could ever comprehend. Not only am I able to pray to Him and receive answers and help in religious matters, but He helps me in school, helps me in social situations, helps me get well when I'm sick, and blesses me with more than I could thank Him for. He has provided everything good in my life- including hard times where I can grow more than any other time. He's sent me people to love and to love me back, no matter our background or belief. I need only to see the sun shine through my window, marvel and at the incredible gift of life on this earth (the only planet capable of sustaining it....wo) and I truly feel that I cannot DENY that He is real.

One other issue that come up in discussion was that of sex before marriage. The norm on this subject, for me, all growing up was that participating in sex before marriage is a sin and very dangerous. I followed that rule for a long time, not truly understanding its purpose and reasoning. But as I've grown older and seen the relationships of people around me at home, and then those of my classmates in school I've come to understand this commandment not as a rule of a "don't" but more of the opposite "do." DO save the greatest expression of physical affection for someone with whom you promise to be with forever. By saving that act of intimacy you show that spouse that you: 1-value that physical relationship and set them apart from other people you've dated 2- See this relationship as more important than any other 3- Love them for who they are and not your physical chemistry 4- have the willpower to remain faithful to them 5- value the creation of life (children) and the responsibility that comes with that 6-are not using them 7-don't have any lifelong diseases to share together 8- respect yourself and your body 9-see sex as a very serious commitment, not an ambiguous deluge of affection that can be forgotten tomorrow. When you get two people together who can show that kind of commitment to one another THAT is a dang strong relationship. Someone you can rely on and trust.

Waiting also saves you from: being used and undervalued, unwanted pregnancy, the terrible heartbreaking event of abortion, higher risk of divorce (it's true there are statistics), disease--ew. And what about the spiritual, chemical, emotional connection? I think it's safe to argue that it's much easier to break up with a total jerk you've only kissed than the one you've given your whole self to. In many dating relationships today sex comes in the earliest stages often before time has been spent finding out anything about the person, what they believe in, what they want from a relationship, what their intentions are etc. That can be very dangerous physically- not to mention emotionally or both.

Are there ways to build that kind of strong relationship without waiting- sure. There are some lucky people out there. But personally, I'd rather not rely on luck. Not when there's a way to be more sure and more protected. Are there crappy relationships that still happen when people wait? - sure. But the reason for the crappy relationship is NOT that they waited. That's when other factors come in- attitudes, keeping romance alive, careers, dishonesty etc. There are a million ways to mess up a marriage or relationship, but waiting until the promise is made in the right place at the right time with the right person, to be fully intimate, is NOT one of them.

Again, I'd like to say that though these statements are bold and unabashed, those who believe differently are not loved any less in my book, either by me or by God. He loves us no matter what. He wants us to choose the best way to find happiness- that's why He gives us commandments. But if we choose an alternate route (that will always be harder than the one He's suggested) we're still His children and He still loves us beyond comprehension. And though I'm human and not capable of loving any of you the way He does, I strive to love you that much no matter your choices, religion, orientation or creed. Thanks for reading - and know that I'm open to talking about any of these things in person. I write these things in the name of Jesus Christ, as my testimony of the truthfulness of them, amen.

Blog

Sorry I haven't posted in a while. It's been a little busy and a little bit hectic. I've been really trying lately to get centered and happy you know? I don't know if you guys have ever felt this way- you know when you're just kind of on your "spiritual A-game" so to speak? like makin' good choices, letting little things go, really loving other people, having a good attitude, makin your bed in the morning and stayin' healthy kind of thing? Like when you just feel the spirit a lot and you know that Heavenly Father's there and your eternal perspective is in a killer-awesome place?\

Well- I love those times and this semester has just not been that. I've kind of been slackerish and bad attitude junk and not happy loving other people-ness all the time. But I've been fighting that and today...

I feel...

sweet.

I love people today- and not on my own, I can't give myself credit. I owe it to God. He makes my life heaven when I step aside and let him. It's awesome. Maybe that's why I haven't written for a while- just wasn't in the zone, that sharing-your-life-to-build-relationships...zone. So I gues I can say I'M BACK YA'LL and I LOVE YA!!

I also got this fabulous quote today that i wish to share with all my loved ones-if you're reading this considered self loved!:

Don't look back, you're not going that way

Family

I LOVE MY FAMILY A MILLION BILLION ZILLION!!!!!!

Sonnet 1

I've wanted to post this for a while but kept forgetting. But today I was reaing my scripture journal and happened upon this sonnet I wrote when I was feeling particularly pensive about a loss I'd just gone through. I won't get any more specific than that but this is what came out:

Time ticks slowly by, I wait, for what?
For all I used to seek has left me still
in deeper sand. And now the door is shut
I teeter on an open window sill.
My aim was sure and clear: a distant star
Once reached I thought, no, knew, that I had won.
And now the morning shews my goal afar
I fear to fail in blind pursuit o' the Sun.
So what? To squat an ever fixed stone?
Unmoved waiting for His higher hand?
Or with shaking knees and fire of will alone
Stagger forward, ill content to merely stand?
On, on! For though my choice be half a guess,
My Master fails me not when giv'n my best.



And there you have it kids. My first Sonnet...*sigh. Will would be proud.
Thoughts?

I'M IN LOVE....

with Richard Gere...........................................................18 years ago.













jk....he looks good with gray hair tooooooooo

words to ponder ;);)




is that inappropriate? :S

ew

Ritz Crackers make me sick. I can feel them gathering together at that little pudge that girls have...ichg. gross

Sharon Vermont

This weekend I got to go to the birthplace of Joseph Smith. The spirit there is INCREDIBLE! This was my second year going with my ward and I'm so grateful!! I really gained such a strong part of my testimony there last year and this year it was only fortified by the STRONGEST confirmation of the spirit I have ever felt IN MY LIFE.

I KNOW Joseph Smith is a prophet, with EVERY FIBER of my being. I never knew what that meant until now, but I can say that I DO know with the ardour and truth. I wish I could share that knowledge with everyone. Being a member of this church is the most important thing I will ever do and I'm so incredibly grateful that the Lord has blessed me to know what I do. And so excited to think that there's so much more for me to learn. :) I love you all, and if you feel like you want a stronger testimony of Joseph Smith or anything that you feel is not and strong as you would like, I'm telling you from personal experience that all you have to do is ASK and be patient. He WILL let you know and strengthen you. O! I would love it if anyone would like to bear their testimony as a comment to this post! That would be really cool- feel free if you feel so inspired. I know Christ lives and loves us and we can learn and grow and become perfected in Him.

ALL MY LOVE TO YOU ALL!!

CHRISTIE BECK!!

Hey dude I want to look at your blog- I'm on your list but I can't put you on mine- do you need to invite me or something? I think you're the grandest and I don't know how else to tell you but to comment on your blog/ post on mine...?

Mainpage pic..

I have this thing with produce... *shrug

I met someone...

Today I experienced the most exhilarating thrill of joy. I went took a trip to the grocery store, music blasting in my ears, wind streaking through my hair, singing along to my tunes, not a care for the looks of those around me. A new freedom has come into my life.....

Serena

Sleek and beautiful in a foresty green with dusty gold embellishments. Yet strong and bold, she's ready for rough terrain and a heavy load on each shoulder- she doesn't complain. She merely floats through the streets, weaving between unsuspecting pedestrians, as though to say, politely but confidently "pardon me, I have somewhere to be." She's fast and thorough and sharp as a tack, she's touring the facility and picking up slack...

my bike.

We went to the grocery store---it was fantastic. It felt like having a convertible car. O! and she has a BELL!! I forgot that part. And whenever I ring it I literally laugh out loud. haha- it's so funny. People all react differently. I love it. It's so happy.

I also got a basil plant. Bailey. Don't ask me where my new infatuation with naming things came from...I have no idea. But like it. Bailey smells wonderful. I have her a hair cut and tomorrow i will make pesto. After I buy some pine nuts.

Cast...

SO today something very big happened in the life of Val.

I go to the Boston Conservatory of Music in Boston MA as many of you know. And I'm in my Junior year and have get to do an actual musical in my college career, which is kinda sad cuz I'm a Musical Theater MAJOR (not minor MAJOR......major). And today I walked by a good friend of mine (greg) and he told me I should definitely go look in the green room.....so I did.....and I got CAST!!!!!!!! I'm going to be in the Fall mainstage and I'm totally stoked and we totally had our first rehearsal tonight and I rocked it!!! and I might dye my hair brown for the part (but hopefully not- that would be hard to get it back :S ). But ya it's a really big deal and I"m really happy and I hope all of you in the area will come and see it!!! love love love!!

the bus....

So I ride the bus a lot. And I noticed the other day that there's a vicious thought pattern that none of us ever seem to really overcome. And that is the thought that TODAY I don't need to brace myself or hold on to anything, I can go on talking to my friend, reading my book, or struggling to get my head phone in and the sudden movement of the bus won't affect my BALANCE at ALL. This thought is a lie. And yet everyone falls for it every time. We are fools in our little world.

What do YOU fall for everytime?

(I always fall for the 'something on your shirt' trick- the one where they flip your nose....so annoying)

Blue

So I was running through Central Park on Wednesday...(ah! Central Park Yay New York!!!) And as I was walking afterword I was thinking of all kinds of things. Just little ways to be happier. I thought of some portable ways to have fun (hacki Sac, Frizbee, instagame) and was brainstorming ways to simplify my life. And I saw this lady walking with head phones and kind of talking, clearly on a cell phone with head phones and I thought "hey, there's a hands free way of keeping in touch.- GOOD idea." So I'm in the process of deciding whether or not to get a blue tooth headset for my phone. This is the list I've come up with so far:
Pros
-Hands free
-Look cool
-Talk while doing other activities

Cons
-look like you're talking to the air...:S
-expensive?..I'm not sure if it actually is
-Sunglasses get stuck- not enough space above the ear

So right now I'm even...thoughts? I'm due for an update on my phone so now is a good time to make this happen. Vote on the poll!!

So why do they call it a "tooth?" I mean I know that's about where it's located on your face but I still feel like that's a funny choice in title.

Instagame

You know you can make a good game out of just about anything! All you have to do is say "pass it on" and see which part of your action someone decides to continue. haha- I just thought of a really sweet social experiment..................pass it on.

Hacki Sac

Hacki Sac = functional, portable, always a good time. You don't even have to be good at it!

A really sweet quote:

"If I don't let myself be happy now, then when? If not now, when?"

I'm not sure who said this but I like it. The more I think about life the more I see that it's either a never ending string of things you love, or a never ending string of things you don't love. How often do you hear someone say "you know, everything this year was really normal. I didn't need to adjust anything and there weren't any problems. Guess I got life figured, I'm good from here on out" ? NEVER, that's how often. And that's what I like about that quote. Changes come. Adjustments come and problems come- but you don't have to wait for them to be "over" to love life or to be happy. Just roll with it and do your best. :)

Twilight Series

What IS it about a sci-fi romance quad set of books that keeps me up til 2:30 AM? Sometimes I'm just stupid? I think I may understand what it feels like to be addicted to a Soap Opera.

"couch"

Do you ever think you're totally over something then go back and realize you're not over it at all? And then kick yourself for going back? Then wonder what to do next? Or if there's really anything to do at all? Sigh* It's like that John Mayer song- in repair. "I could be right, I could be ready, but if I took my heart's advice I shoulda known it's still unsteady." Kinda like when you're really worn out and you're sitting on the couch and you think "I'm ready to stand up" and as soon as you do there's a major head rush and you have to sit back down. That's where I'm at. I don't feel strong, I don't feel full, and my head is a little fuzzy. So......:S...now what? When do I get to leave the couch? Or do I like sitting here? Am I imagining the head rush so I get to stay? I don't even like the couch anymore. It's UNCOMFORTABLE. In fact it's downright TORTUROUS. - but it HAS been good to me in the past. argh I'm tired of thinking about it.

Family

I love my nieces and nephew so much. I literally feel warmth in my heart when I think about them. Today I read a story to my nephew, parker, before his nap. And then I tucked him in and kissed him and turned off the light. And he didn't say anything really cute or kiss me back or anything like that. But it was still so precious even without beins super cute. I would do anything for that little boy. Tuff love included. Same thing for Sarah and Kinzley. They are so special and precious. I wouldn't trade being an aunt for all the Tony's on the planet...serious. Even when they scream at me and spit in my face- sigh* it's the best insult I've ever had. :)

dumb dares

I have a really good friend whose dad is also my really good friend it's a family friend thing if you know what I mean and every week he the family friend's dad aka uncle Tim sends me a list of amazing office dares that I always laugh at but never dare to actually do today I read the list of dares and laughed out loud while i saw myself in my minds eye carrying out the dare the dare consisted of throwing up your hands and yelling opa every time someone announced something as i pictured myself doing it i laughed and thought someone that brave would have to be cool it was then i decided that i would start taking the dares that he sent because why not its funny and i would really like to be cool so dont be surprised if you see me doing really creatively rediculous things for a laugh or just for myself so i can laugh its pretty funny if you really think about it and why not love life for how stupid you can be sometimes so here goes im takin the dare and checkin it off check one write a letter with no punctuation just once alright kinevils my new middle name love you all val

Day 3

So for about a year now I've really been gettin into the whole health foods, whole grain, lots of produce thing. Some would call me "green" or perhaps "granola"- I don't know what I am really but to a lot of people it may be "weirdo health freak". Anyway, I like it. But the point is I'm doing a two week body cleanse/liquid fast. And I just want to put it out there that I love carrot juice. It's creamy and delicious and I like it ok? Secondly I'd like to say that juicing anything that's green or leafy = bile. It's nasty, I will not lie, do not do it for fun because it won't be. Anyways, I'm on day #3 But just for the sake of consistency I think I'll update you on how 1 and 2 went

Day #1-
8:00 Am-
Heck yes I'm gonna clean out this body and everything's going to rock!

12:00 PM
Mm Carrot Juice again!....ya I'm excited... and hungry. ya, all of you eating things you can chew-- you don't know what LIVING is.

3:00 PM
Me: Soy soup- thank goodness it's salty!! All this juice is driving me crazy.
Graham Cracker: You better eat me before your brain explodes
Me:ok

6:00 Pm
THAT'S IT! I'M EATING BREAD! AND NONE OF YOU CAN STOP ME!!

10:00
Well......so much for day one. 13 to go...:S

Day 2:
8:00
What the crap am I going to eat for breakfast?!
(juiced collared greens with molasses- THAT's what)

12:00
carrot juice...mm. Im still hungry

3:00
Misso Soup- surprisingly satisfying- especially when I'm totally distracted from my excruciating hunger because my latest Vampire novel is incredible!! (Bella and Jacob?= lame. When does Edward come back?)

6:00
Jamba- saved my life

10:00
hm... carrot juice yet again. my life should be novel.



Day three- today

9:00 AM
Spinach juice and mollasses....filling....don't unplug your nose Val. Don't unplug your nose!!Not to mention that nasty vitamin supplement...*shudder

11:00 AM
I can't wait for some nice carrot...WHAT THE!!? non-refrigeration= rancid carrot juice=hungry val= :(
Well, I'll never make THAT mistake again.

3:00 PM
NO EATING, just reading- Come on Bella, save that vampire! o Edward I knew you'd come back!!

7:30 PM
Nice to have that book finished- What is that odd sensation in my mid section? Could be hunger??...food. soup, more more more More MORE!!!!

9:00 PM
too much soup ... ugh.(and a tortilla and cheese...sh)


How do I get myself into this stuff? The funniest thing is that I would never give it up. I've started now...it's over. I have to finish. I mean I could quit but- I won't. I'm funny that way.

California!!

I haven't posted these yet but this is our California trip we took over the 4th of July- I'm behind I know. Enjoy the pics!

This was the best vacation. We had so much fun and really bonded. love you girls!!

Make a Smilebox slideshow

MEMORIES!!!

SO I've been seeing a trend in the memory sharing game via blog and I thought I'd join in cuz that's so awesome!! Leave a comment on my blog of a memory that you and I have had together. It doesn't matter if you've known me for a short time, or a long time, anything you remember! Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It's actually pretty funny to see the responses. If you leave a memory about me, I'll assume you're playing the game and I'll come to your blog and leave one about you.Ready, Set, GO!

Again

Do you ever get those songs that just hit your heart for everything they are? That's how Tom Petty's Free Fallin' is for me. I've only heard the John Mayer Cover but it literally hurts my heart everytime I hear it. It makes my muscles twitch to dance. *sigh*

Today was a good day. My house is full of my siblings :') and they're babies. It's not very often that that happens. We stay up late and I don't even care. Every 5 minutes something adorable happens and I think "where the heck is my camera RIGHT now?" Children are magic. They are. They stand there all brand new to life and they're so beautiful that I could hold them, spin them, kiss them and run around with them forever. There's nothing so precious as that high pitch chuckle followed by "AGAIN!" And I'm always tryin to push back the thought that says "I hope I"m they're favorite aunt" because I know I could never compete with my amazing siblings for such a role.
And then the little ones go to bed and all us "grown-ups" stay up playing mario-cart, eating cereal and saying "I'm tired" but never going to bed....*sigh. And inside I have the same chuckle followed by the same request "AGAIN!" These are the weekends that we work day in and day out for. These are the moments we think about when we can't stand to think about everything else that's going on. Everyone crammed into one house, sitting around the same table, loving the same children, and wishing that the weekend would last and last and last and last and last. And I can say with my whole heart, my whole mind, my whole soul- there is NO WHERE else I'd rather be.

Thankyou Lord, for my family- I can be with them "again," forever, and never stop feeling this incredible smile in my heart.

Jumpin'

My head has been buzzing lately. I have so many songs, plays, plots, notes, words shooting through my head and running out my mouth into my ipod recording piece. Instant record right there. Technology is amazing. I've been writing by hand too. I'm overflowing with...matter, substance, structure, thoughts, feelings. I don't have time to do all I want to do. I was listening to Free Fallin' before I went running, and the music was so filling that I couldn't stand still anymore. I ran faster for longer than I've ever run. There's an artist inside me that wants out. She deserves it. She's been waiting for a long time. Sitting patiently by the door, asking for a few minutes outside. A few minutes to run without timing, smell the ground the air the grass, stare into the sun and feel it's light on her skin. She's twitching for it. Why am keeping her in. What am i afraid of? She'll get dirty? She'll get rejected? The sun won't shine? Her prince won't come? Her God won't fill her mouth? Perhaps all of them. Yes. All of them. *sigh* so what then. How does that magic door open? Perhaps its just a matter of me giving my permission. My permission to fall, to get rejected, to die. Do I need to be "ready"? Or is not being ready the whole point? .......Those questions are fear. That's what they are. That's it. I'm doing it. I'm opening that door. No more excuses, I'm going to get messy. I don't know how but I'll do it. I'm going to screw up. But the atonement's there. I can't be everything I could be, until I decide to risk changing what I am. Tootle-oo coward club.
I'm jumpin.

7th west is a BUSY STREET ok?

So today I went running and the most embarrassing thing happened. I was set to run for 6 miles today and I wanted to run it in under an hour cuz last time it took me an hour pretty much flat. So I'm running and I always cut my runs in half- run half to a certain point, turn around and come back. So I was makin pretty good pace half way and thought- ya I've totally got time to get home in under an hour. But the last three miles was kinda kickin' my butt, and it was really hot so I was taking a couple slow down and walk breaks, just so I wouldn't totally hate life tomorrow. Breaks take time so I was a little worried, and started running a quicker pace in between breaks.

So I get to a shady spot and decide "ok, I'm going to stand in the shade for 10 seconds and catch some air." So I'm there five seconds- it's all good. Then the last five seconds I'm gearin up to run ...and I start to pee. So I'm running thinking- " O my body will recognize that NOW is NOT the time." But kids I gotta be honest I STRAIGHT UP, PEED my PANTS today while running on 7th west. Pretty embarrassing I know- BUT, I made my time ;).

TMI? What's YOUR best pee your pants story?? Let's HEAR IT!!!

Create

I just got back from the John Mayer concert at USANA. And I have to say that I'm so inspired right now. I've always loved doing a billion things at once and this is why. I see someone do something amazing and I think "o I JUST want to DO that." And that's what John Mayer has done to me tonight. And that's what Idina Mendel does to me every time I listen to Wicked, and John Williams whenever I listen to a score and Shakespeare, Bach, Beethoven, Ben Folds, Itzak Pearlman, Charlotte Church, Josh Groban, Julia Hunter, Nickie Singleton, and all my friends at school who are AMAZING at whatever they do. But it's not just art it's so many other things. It's this amazing passion sponge inside that sees someone succeeding at whatever they are passionately talented at. And I wish I could say that there was no jealousy in there but let's be honest I'm human and I'm working on it. But really, its such a great thing to want to do everything but then such a let down to realize that I CAN'T. There's no way i can be all those things right now. Just no way.

Now wait a minute? Am I gonna let that word "can't" keep me from exploring and learning and pushing myself?? That would just be... dumb. Really dumb. But how do you do it. How do you really go for something all the way, and do the same for every OTHER thing you love? Maybe it's as simple as adding the word "yet."

I don't have an anzwer. And I don't know if actually trying to do them all is faithful or unhealthy. But I'm excited enough to write some music :). So I'll just think about that for now, and worry about all that thought stuff later.

(as always your input is encouraged- especially in a case like this. ;) chao!)

Video Experiment

SO this was on Patriots day. I was really tired to the point to rediculous laughter - you all know that feeling. And then I got really excited about the ketchup. It may not be that exciting but Ellen Marshal will laugh and I can try this video post thing.

LOL SO FUNNY--- maybe not to you guys but that was the most wonderful day EVER!

Boring blog post- boring!!!

So, I don't really have anything great to write I just know that people have more fun reading your blog if you write stuff a lot. Not long things though (I don't have patience for long posts unless they're real good- sorry friends. If it's long and boring I'm OUT).I have this friend named Megan who hates blogging but does it anyway cuz her friend Brynne went out of town for a long time..blah blah blah....but she's really good at it. Which just goes to show that you don't have to TRY to be interesting. You just have to be honest... and brief.

Does anyone else have a really poopy time getting pictures up on their blogs? Cuz I surely do. And how do you do that movie thing?? And while I'm at it I want a cool background!!

NOSE JOB

thanks to my amazing Doctor - Doctor Bennett- I no longer have a crooked nose. I had "surgery" yesterday. He basically put me out and broke my nose back. No incisions, no IV, just gas and some skilled hands. This is the new look I'll be sporting for the next three days. I know I know, it's pretty attractive. Hopefully all you hot men can resist the temptation to call me RIGHT NOW. I'm busy today - recovering.



Jk I really feel awesome. I was only in pain for about an hour and my eyes aren't bruised at all. Wang Chung! It's pretty amazing that I can be this happy after having my nose broken AGAIN. Life is so good, I slept ALL DAY yesterday. And I'm only going to get better.... :D. Thanks for reading!! Be sure to leave a comment, even if it's irrelevent. I know my audience better that way :).

I'm sure glad dating is hard. It'll make my husband worth it.


(What's the use being bitter :) )

I know...

Many of you know that I'm a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints (aka Mormons). Those of my fellow members know what that means, what we believe and what we stand for. For those of you who don't know I wanted to take this opportunity to share with you some of the things that I believe, know, and hold dear to my heart. This might be a little weird and something that people my age don't openly express often. But we've recently recieved instruction from our leaders to express our convictions in whatever means we can, including the internet. They're things that I love, and this blog is titled as a loving place. They're things that bring me joy and perspective- and I am all about sharing love and joy.

We believe in a loving Heavenly Father who loves us perfectly. We believe that we lived with Him before we came to earth and that we will have the opportunity to live with Him in the hereafter. We believe that He developed a plan for us to come here and to learn and grow and gain the experience that we needed to progress. Our Heavenly Father knew that we would sin and make mistakes that would make it impossible for us to return to Him. So as part of His plan


He needed someone to come and suffer for those sins and mistakes so we could return to live with Him for all eternity. The only one of His children who was good enough to perform this task was His first born son, our elder brother and beloved Savior, Jesus Christ.

He came to earth and established His church. He was a perfect example for us. He performed the ultimate act of love for each and every one of us. He suffered for our sins, our heartaches, our physical pain. He felt everything we will ever feel. He rose on the third day and overcame death. I know these things are true. I know that He lives. I know that He is willing and anxious to help me with everything I struggle with. I know He loves me and will ALWAYS be there for me no matter how many mistakes I make or problems I come up against. His role is to help me with those things.

Some of you may wonder "how can she KNOW that? how can ANYone KNOW that?" And I can say that I know because I have thought, and studied, pondered and PRAYED. I have asked for this witness and Heavenly Father has granted me that privilege. He has told me in a way that I can KNOW. He speaks to each of us differently. But I can stand and bear my testimony that I know Christ lives, that He has suffered for my sins, that He knows me perfectly. I have seen His love in my life. His influence and counsel has brought me more joy than anything I could ever find elsewhere. I bear this testimony with my whole heart, as sincerely and openly as I can. And I pray that ALL of you can COME UNTO HIM and know His love and power. I know He lives I know His power is real. I write these things in His name, the holy name of Jesus Christ, amen.

Shiner

O you THINK that's eyeliner DONTCHA! Well you're WRONG! I definitely had the most frightening bloody nose OF MY LIFE right after I hit someone's elses elbow WITH MY HEAD. Definitely playing frizbee. Definitely painful, but not broken. O and don't worry , I'm getting a new driver's license tomorrow. I will remember this pain in my FACE every time I fly, drink or get pulled over...except I don't drink so it's not that bad. It was seriously scary- I always thought the word "gush" was an exaggeration...o contraire. It looked fake. Like a....nevermind that's graffic. Anyway that's the newest goings on for Val. Hope you're all healthy and happy and ready to share your own amazing black eye stories- Let's HEAR EM!

Grandma Borrowing.

You know it's been a while I need to write here.


So today I was with my mom shopping for dress patterns and I discovered something that I absolutely love. You may be thinking it's a particular dress but you're wrong. You see, when you go to Joanns looking for patterns you sit down at this big table and look through catalogs of dresses/shirts/pants/bags or any number of item that you can make out of fabric. Each item has a brand and number that corresponds to a drawer in a nearby cabinet that holds the pattern for whatever it is you decide to make. This sounds like a simple process, however, being an artistic and complicated person the whole thing can take hours.

ANYWAY the best part about the process is nothing that I've mentioned (that was all background). You see, it's not very often that 20 year old girls get real into sewing. I mean there are a select few like myself. But there are plenty of older ladies who take "joy" in sewing for themselves and others. THIS is the thing I was talking about. Every time, without fail, tried and true, some fantastic old woman with years of sewing experience will sit down opposite me and my mother. And everytime, without fail, tried and true, she ends up asking what we're working on, and eventually going on and on about how this is her "last project" or how "bridezilla's got her hooked again" making 25 matching dresses for girls who all CLAIM to be a size zero. Always a joy, always a pleasure, always a laugh. And besides that they're usually really good at making suggestions for your project that you would absolutely NEVER do. And as soon as they see that glimmer of disapproval on your face (no matter how hard I try it always comes out a little) they wag their hand at you and say "you girls are SO PICKY." But it's cute all the same. Like borrowing someone's grandma for ten minutes :).

Have you ever gotten the "picky" wag? Come on- We've all got grandma's let's hear it.

ok so this is something I've wanted to blog about for a while but just haven't gotten around to it. I've been noticing in group situations that conversations among several people tend to be more of a series of moments. One person will tell a story: moment. Someone will comment on the story: moment. Someone will react positively/negatively: moment. Then someone will bring up another story/idea/subject: moment. Generally this format runs pretty smoothly and we all get to know each other better.

But every once in a while you're in a large group and someone will start their story or big thought out opinion and right in the middle of a critical line someone from the other side of the circle pipes in "ah man what TIME is it?" like it's the most pressing part of the conversation. This, I think, is something to be avoided.

It's all about giving someone their moment, whatever it is they needed it for. It may be a story, a movie quote, a vent session about their recent break-up, or their new found love for chilly-dawgs, whatever! It's a listening thing.

Wouldn't you say? Are there appropriate interruption points? I really don't know, what do you think?

The joys of retail

Today I was at work (my third day on the job) and we were unpacking all these boxes to restock the store. And we were using box- cutters, which I, personally, really enjoy using. There's something so satisfying about cutting through that tape :). And as I got to one box I ran my box cutter accross the tape, and as the cardboard split open to reveal it's contents one of my FAVORITE things in the world appeared.....drumroll please........BUBBLE WRAP! I was so excited. Who doesn't LOVE bubble wrap, I mean really? That super-satisfying popping sound from squeezing, twisting and (my favorite) dancing upon it, just can't be beat. But the story doesn't end there. I pulled the bubble wrap from the box and firmly pinched one of the bubbles. Nothing happened. I pinched again and noticed that the bubble next to it expanded, and the bubble next to that one and so on down the row. The pressure evenly dispersed accross the entire row and there wasn't a pop to be heard. :( Pop-proof bubble wrap. Pop-proof BUBBLE WRAP!! WHO DOES THAT!!?? It was very sad. But I'm ok. or will be at least. eventually. I mean, at least I've still got the box cutter:) and if you pinch those packing peanuts from the right angle they explode right out of your hand. It's a simple pleasure, but sometimes I think those are the most important :).

Aside from that story I absolutely love my job. I work with these four great guys: Frank, Allen, Peter and Tim. They're all really cool guys and I'm having a blast getting to know them. It's a shame I'll only be there for a month.

lots of miles and a salty face

Well I can't seem to get my computer to allow me to put my picture up BUT i GUESS I'll just continue on with the post as thought there were NOTHING WRONG.(I don't REALLY care it's just fun to pretend to be upset.)


So TODAY! I ran a really long long way. Guess how far! You'll never guess 8MILES!!!! That's the farthest I've run in a long long time. I was hard. My feet kind of hurt and my right knee wasn't much havin' it. But I DID IT! And when I got home I walked into the bathroom and looked in the mirror and thought "I look pretty good for having just run eight miles"- THEN I looked closer in the mirror and (this is the gross part) I had salt deposits all around my forehead, about an inch from my hairline. I took a picture to show you guys but my computer is a little bit weird. It's not as gross as it sounds. In fact I kind of think it's cool and a little bit hard core.

I'm hoping to run the marathon next year...:S... and I'm in pre-training training right now. I feel so clean and fresh! and HAPPY! I have realized today that I NEED to be really active to be this happy. When I don't keep my body going I am NOT as happy. It really makes you feel good inside and out. And on a spiritual note, I was thinking when I first got back that I was a pretty cool person taking initiative to run 8 miles and work towards a marathon and that Heavenly Father must be SO PROUD. Then I caught myself and really started thinking about it. And what I realized was that He doesn't doesn't care if I run 8 miles or 10 feet- if it makes me happy it makes him happy. And I don't need to be able to run a marathon to feel loved, He already thinks I'm amazingly beautiful just for trying and finding happiness. He'd love me infinitely if I DIDN'T try. And that's really comforting. :)

What brings YOU happiness??

Somehow people manage to spend hundreds of dollars on one piece of apparel.  

hm

RMs

So this post is one of those commentary kind. I'm seriously interested in everyone's opinion/observation/reaction.  I was talking to a good friend of mine about returned missionaries for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.  The idea was brought forth, that missionaries generally go one of two ways after returning home from their mission.  1- After two years of hard work, self discipline, hard work, submission to the Lord's will and some more hard work, they see this return to the "real world" as their opportunity to do whatever they feel like doing.  A spiritual splurge if you will.  OR 2- they're so immersed in what they're mission has meant to them that they find it difficult to move on with normal life.  Dating is awkward, popular music is rough, and sometimes harsh judgment of others occurs.  Perhaps they find themselves wishing they were still on the mission.  

My questions:  

RMs- do you find this to be even remotely true? If so, how can your peers and family help you best overcome either of these extremes? 

Others- What have you observed that may be helpful to all of us? How can we help these guys out, or ourselves?  These are only two options- perhaps you've observed a third? (Let's keep this safe- avoid names if telling a specific story)

Those unfamiliar with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints-  Would you be interested in hearing a message about the living Christ? 

finished

So a couple months ago I posted a story about one of my more difficult classes (the one where it seemed that everyone was speaking some alternate language).  Well I just spent the last four days on my final project for that class and an hour and a half ago I FINISHED!! It's so amazing.  I orchestrated a piece written by Claude Debussy (he wrote the famous "Claire De Lune" that everyone and their dog learns on the piano), which basically means I took his piano piece and re-wrote it for a full orchestra. 

 This may not seem like much, but to hold those eight pieces of manuscript paper in my hands and look at the hundreds of notes hand written in between hundreds of lines and spaces and think that a group of musicians could look at them and make MUSIC!--- It's a miracle. To think about how lost I was in this class at the beginning of the year and then see that I'm capable of doing something I never thought I would be able to do--it's a mazing.  And honestly I don't think I really did it on my own, in fact I know I didn't.  Prayer works my friends- it really really does :)

a long post

I hate to admit it but when I get on my friends' blogs and their posts are more than two paragraphs, I totally check out and don't finish reading the entry.  Which really is kind of impatient of me.  This is actually an insight into my ability to virtually listen.  If I'm not willing to read everything my friends have to say, would I be willing to sit and listen to them say it?  I mean, I usually think that blogs  and face book and such should be used to help your relationships with people, but maybe my balance is off.  How do YOU handle virtual sociality? 

get to know someone

Have you ever had one of those acquaintances/dates/friendships/relationships where you knew a lot or everything about the other person but they knew slim to none about you? I feel like I experience this often and I'm just wondering... how do I stop this from happening? Is it MY fault that they've never asked or made the effort to remember?  Maybe I'm not speaking up enough? I'm usually of the opinion that no one wants to be talked at, so I kind of wait for the other person to ask about me or bring something up about myself before I interject with my #1 most hilarious story, passionate political opinion, or latest advice on their love life. Am I doing this right? Maybe I should put myself out there a little more...thoughts?

And for all you who find yourself in the opposite position, how do you feel about not knowing or remembering anything about your acquaintance/date/friend/significant other/family member? Don't you feel like you're kind of missing something from those people? Or are you completely satisfied with your all confessing, only guessing knowledge of those you're close to ( or should I say "close" to)? I'm hungry for answers...how does this relationship give and take function best? 

Thank you all for your input

In the last six months I have:

-completed and begun a new semester

-witnessed the life of an independent onion

-surprised my family

-completed a big goal

-begun a new goal

-had my heart ripped apart and built up half way

-flipped my financial situation

-decided to run a marathon

-cut down on my meat intake

-fallen in love...again

-heard the voice of God

-had an anxiety attack

-skipped  a little class 

-made up the classes I missed

-blogged it up

-received a set of miracle keys

-Been to a funeral

-laughed every day...almost

-witnessed a revolutionary war re-enactment

-grown

...?

Yesterday my friend mistakenly thought it was my birthday and sent me a virtual gift...a kitten. 

I'm still laughing about it. 

Ho-onk

Geese make the funniest noise in the whole world.  I can just see it at the creation of the earth- "what noise should THIS one make?" No music to the ears like a drawn out honk that changes pitches half way through.  It's like the voice of an adolescent boy- times five. I love Geese.  

The Sun Does...

THE SUN IS OUT!!!! Every thing is so beautiful lately.  People are smiling, frizbees are flying and everyone wants to be outside all the time! I love being outside too. It's beautiful and exciting. 

I've taken to walking down the middle of one way streets in the opposite direction.  It gives me this really amazing sense of power in alone-ness. I like it.  It's cool too that I don't HAVE to watch my back.  I can trust in the rules and know that there won't be cars coming THAT way.  

Today we did viewpoints outside.  A lot of you don't know what Viewpoints is but basically, you let go of your social inhibitions and follow all your impulses.  If you feel like sitting, sit. When you want to run, run.  If the person next to you is sneezing, sneeze and then sneeze again and again and again until it turns into a cough, a moan, a scream---no limits.  Let the world around you play you. 

It's very hippy sounding, but SO FUN!!! Its being a kid all over again. And what better time than now, when the sun has just come out and the whole world is rediscovering the life inside it.  

the secret revealed!

So this weekend I got to do something really really fun. I surprised my family by showing up in Utah for the weekend.  That was the big secret and can I tell ya- it was sooooo worth it.  Surprising them was the best thing I could have done.  I had my friend Ben pick me up for the airport and we went and decorated my little sis's car.  The only hint I left was an inside joke on her driver's side window (DEW).  She called me around 2:45 demanding to know where I was.  I said "subway" and hung up.  5 minutes later I was abruptly tackled by an 18 year old love bomb.  It was wonderful.  

I surprised my mom by sneaking up on her at Ell's soccer game.  I was on the phone with her and as soon as she heard my voice on the phone and right next to her she turned and screamed, "what are you doing here?! What are you DOING here?!" I was laughing so hard it took me a second to explain.

I surprised my dad similarly by calling the house from my bedroom.  When I walked into the kitchen, after expressing my heartfelt wish that I could magically be in Utah, all he could say was "You dirty rat." 

I surprised Creed and Sharesa too, by showing up at their house the next night, posed as Ellen needing to see her niece.  It was awesome! I loved surprising them and being with them.  Spending that weekend with my family made me realize how much I love and miss them always.  I'm so grateful that I know that we can be together forever.  And even though we're separated right now, we'll always always always be there for each other.  They are my greatest blessing and no matter where I am, it won't be better than being with them.  So to all my family- XOXOXO I can't wait to be back with you in a month and a half :). Thank you for always being there for me and loving me unconditionally.  All my love

-Val

Better

Everything is better with music...period.

Minnesota Moment

My friend Tiffany has coined this wonderful phrase. It's called a 'minnesota moment'. And basically what happened was that she was on a first date with someone she wasn't sure if she liked or not yet. They were on a hike, and she loves slightly odd soul searching questions, so she picked up a rock that was a fairly odd shape and asked "what does this rock remind you of?" not really expecting or wanting him to answer in a particular way, just seeing what he would say. And his response was nothing more than, "Minnesota." And that response, for whatever reason, was the tipping moment. It was that moment that gave her just enough information about who this boy was that she could tell that she was no longer interested. Hence the phrase 'minnesota moment'. The turning point that ends a relationship. Do you all know what I'm talking about? I wonder if you can really trust them...what if you just let someone wonderful pass by because they were slightly off that day? or something? Thoughts? Anyone?

Secret...sh

Guess what......

I have a really really big secret that I'm not telling my family... and its NOT that I've become a pseudo vegetarian.  It's a really big wish that won't come true for about a week.  But I can't publish it because my sister's read this blog.  O and BTW has anyone noticed how I haven't written for like a month and my hits DOUBLED! I know that's a lot of people just getting here by accident but still... it makes me feel loved. And why pass up that??  I think we all let self consciousness over rule our happy thoughts sometimes, and that's just cynical.  I'll make a deal with you all.  If each of you find something that makes you feel loved tomorrow (or the day after you read this whenever that is) you tell me what it was and I will send you a dessert in the mail.  Capiche? 

Gross

One of the grossest things ever: greasy forehead marks on mirrors and windows...gross. 

What grosses YOU out?

I didn't...I will

Today was so good.  I didn't think so while it was happening but everything really worked out. I   woke up late, but got all the sleep I needed.  I didn't do homework this morning like I planned but I got all of my space cleared and organized and set.  I didn't get my book from the library that I wanted, but I DID get to read most of it and I chose a new monologue from it that I like even better.  I didn't make it to my jazz class, but I did make it to the later one.  I still didn't get all my homework done tonight, but i did get to spend time with friends that needed to be spent, and a large appointment got cancelled for tomorrow that will give me time to do it then- and buy groceries.  After being so worried about how today was going to go yesterday, I realize how today went and think- I shouldn't worry about tomorrow so much.  When I do my best and trust that the Lord will help me do what needs to be done, I can just trust that the day will work out and everything will be worthwhile...that's what happened today.  It WAS all worthwhile.  Tomorrow, instead of worrying I will enjoy each moment, trusting that my effort will not be wasted, that the world will go on as beautiful as the day before, and that all the things that really matter won't be hurt by one event during one day. All the things that really matter are eternal.  I didn't realize that today, but TOMORROW....I will :).

Anything really great happen to you today that you DIDN'T think about before? 

So EMBARRASSING!!!!

I just had the most amazing laugh attack!! SO I was sitting with my good friend Rob in the hallway and we were just chatting about nothing.  And by the by he ended up doing a great impersonation of a squirrel (don't ask) and we started laughing. I totally full on FARTed, right in front of my good friend Rob...HOW EMBARASSING! Right? Isn't that like the most embarassing thing you could do? Well, it was pretty embarrassing but LUCKILY me and (my good friend) Rob are close enough that it was not a hinderance to our friendship but rather one of the greatest bouts of laughter I've had in a looonnng time.  In fact I'm still laughing about it ... inside....still. 

So the POINT is that, every embarrassing moment can be A) really embarrassing or B) REALLY funny.  I choose funny.  Have you ever had an embarrassing moment be wonderful? Comment on my blog- I LOVE comments. Really. 

And Rob- you can just shut up.

Embryo

So sometimes I'm not very good at using up all the food I buy.  My roommates make fun of me (strike 2 on the roommates- see "mooch" entry) because I have a lot of food go bad before I've used it and I have to throw it away. OR they get MAD when I stink things up (ex: rotten chicken smell=  combination fish, fart, and laundry - IF you try to cover the smell with air freshener.  Their anger is justified,  but Katie and I thought it was hilARious.)

Anyway the POINT of my story is that, due to my inefficient consumption capabilities, I came back from winter break and found that one of my onions had a small green spike-ish sprout protruding from one corner.  WOW- I did NOT KNOW that onions could do that.  I was intrigued and decided to let the sprout grow.  And much to my pleasure and delight my onion has sprouted 14 tough little green stalks. Isn't that COOL!? Every thing that sprout needs to grow is already inside it.  I haven't watered it or put in soil or ANYthing. no nurturement what so ever.  God is amazing.  I love him. 

"Man is a god in embryo and has in him the seeds of godhood, and he can, if he will, rise to great heights."

-President Spencer W. Kimball

apology

I'm really sorry about my last post- it wasn't very nice

People

People are DUMB. I mean I love people and I do my best to treat em good.  But sometimes, people are just rude. Serious.  They don't think about what they say before they say it.  And they think they know everything about you before they've talked to you about ANYthing.  And you try to do all this nice stuff for them, to show them you love them, and you really DO love them- but then they'll just throw it your face and say- 'you're fake- we only like people who are dramatic and pissy.'  

Sorry, - I wasn't thinking much about that while I wrote it- but I still think it's true. . . mostly

Roadenedbay Orizonshay

There's something so awesome/stinky about getting into something that pushes you.  

I love my major and my crazy amazing school.  I'm studying stuff that I'm generally good at and pick up fairly easily so as far as classroom behavior goes, I'm generally confident and a full participating student.  So I'm going along in my classes- do do do, singing life away, and then I think "hm, I should try something different - THAT would be a really cool class, I should TRY it!"  So once a week I go and sit in a classroom of composers (not my major) and try to grasp  concepts that I've barely heard about much less used myself.  My class mates, in their casual dress shirts, khakis and sneakers artistically ask questions that refer to genres of music I've never heard of, composers I've never listened to, and instruments I didn't know existed. Then my teacher proceeds to answer with the phrase "EVery body KNOWS..." and then continues speaking in what seems to me to be fluent ancient Mayan....ok I'm exaggerating....it's more like an elementary piglatin. I listen, take notes, devour my textbook like a starving hyena and pray that somehow I'll have the guts to ask a question. Thankfully I passed my first semester... by an inch, BUT it is a wonderful experience and I will never regret stepping outside of the box A LITTLE. Maybe next time I step out I can find out what ancient Maya really sounds like and why my proffessor keeps calling me Alerievay.  :S

Rude?

Have you ever been called rude? Just straight up had someone say 'you're rude' or 'that was rude. And not like joking but looking you right in the eye and give you the bad news.  That happened tonight and the saddest thing about it is I can't think about this situation and say to myself-" that's not true, you didn't do anything wrong, they're just offended and it's not your fault. "  But I really had to think about it hard and try to determine whether or not I really had done something truly dishonest, or hurtful, or dangerous.  Perhaps inconsiderate-but only out of scattered schedules, too many balls to juggle, and a last minute decision of what's probably best for me.     

I also consider at the same time, what good does it do for them to say that? What good does it do any of us to throw out a hurtful term, even if it may be true? What's that lyric "words can hurt you, if you let them.  People say them and forget them." Those words stick with me, thrown out so easily by another. It's likely that she will forget those much sooner than I ever will.  I suppose I'm learning- reassessing my own actions and wondering: how can I do this better? how can I avoid fulfilling the title newly placed upon me? How can I be clean of it forever? And how can I right the situation without choosing a different option that's ultimately not what I really want or think is best? What does the Lord want me to do? 

I know this is all kind of vague, and not something that anyone can give specific advice for... but if you have any thoughts, I'd be happy to hear them.  :) 

Mooch

SO my roommates always make fun of me for coming home with random leftover food from social functions.  And I was thinking about it and I've decided that that is just DUMB (ben, ell....DUMB). Being a poor college student definitely has its ups and downs and I, personally, consider free food to be an UP, thank you very much.  I mean if it's leftover, no one's gonna eat it, they'll probably have to throw it away OR take it home to their family that doesn't NEED it as much as I do.  After all, families are together and I'm all alone, which gives me slight depression WHICH, as we all know, leads people to eat.  Not that I over eat- I don't.  But clearly this food goes to it's greatest benefit by being packaged up in tupperware and lovingly placed in my section of the refrigerator, rather than a landfill that emits toxic gases and ultimately contributes to global warming...sort of.  So get off my back roommates! I'm not a mooch, I'm just efficient. 

Mooch

SO my roommates always make fun of me for coming home with random leftover food from social functions.  And I was thinking about it and I've decided that that is just DUMB (ben, ell....DUMB). Being a poor college student definitely has its ups and downs and I, personally, consider free food to be an UP, thank you very much.  I mean if it's leftover, no one's gonna eat it, they'll probably have to throw it away OR take it home to their family that doesn't NEED it as much as I do.  After all, families are together and I'm all alone, which gives me slight depression WHICH, as we all know, leads people to eat.  Not that I over eat- I don't.  But clearly this food goes to it's greatest benefit by being packaged up in tupperware and lovingly placed in my section of the refrigerator, rather than a landfill that emits toxic gases and ultimately contributes to global warming...sort of.  So get off my back roommates! I'm not a mooch, I'm just efficient. 

Soundtrack

Life is more fun when you listen to your ipod...all the time.  I used to think that wearing your headphone plastered to your ear was just a way to distance yourself from other people.  But since I've been going for the tunes everytime I walk out the door I've noticed a smile popping up on my face involuntarily...ALL THE TIME! It's great- you should all try it.  Next time you're walking down the street by yourself, plug in to your favorite playlist and lipsink with RECKLESS ABANDON. Britney's got nothin' on YOU.  Let me know how it makes you feel :). I'd love to know if it affects your involuntary-smile-mechanism the way it affects mine. 

Intersections

I live in Boston.  Weird  I know. Well, weird for me.  All you long-haul bostonians may feel differently but for me, this is one place I never would have pictured myself living.  Utah is home, always has been, always would have been...until lately.  But that's a whole 'nother post.  Boston is foreign.  No car, no house, no cat, no Mom, no Dad and a big hole in my heart where my sisters should be.  No mountains, no high school friends, no nature center by my elementary school, and what I miss most of all....a 360 degree view of the sky from anywhere.    

But tonight I loved this city.  I felt at home in the city.  I walked up from the rumbling tunnel at the Hynes Convention Center Stop, my new tennis shoe boots bounced along as I bobbed my head to the tune Jon (Mayer) was crooning in my ear.  I sang along, not caring (on purpose) what anyone around me thought of my animated lipsinking. And as I reached the intersection of Mass Ave. and Boylston I looked up.  The moon was brighter than ever against the black sky, and the stars smiled down from constellations that I've never learned.  They seemed to spread away from each other, reminding me of how much of the sky I could see from that spot.  I saw my worlds connect from the same blanketed sky that I've always looked to for a glimpse of divinity in my home town.  

I turned in a circle with my face to the sky, remembering moments from years gone by with these same heavenly witnesses present.  And I felt so grateful.  I realized that I will always have the important things- I'll have my Mom, my Dad, my friends, my siblings, my nieces and nephews, my heart, my likes and dislikes, the sky, and God.  They may be invisible temporarily, just like the sky hidden by the skyscrapers of a big city.  But it's at those times of change, and decision that they become clear again. It's at the intersection that you finally see the sky........ 

........don't forget to look up ;)