Aly

Saw this on Pinterest...

2012-01-26T23:25:00.000-08:00

****

2012-01-25T00:15:00.000-08:00

"No one of us is less treasured or cherished of God than another, I testify that He loves each of us- insecurities, anxieties, poor self-image, and all. He doesn't measure our talents or our looks; He doesn't measure our professions or our possessions. He cheers on every runner, calling out that the race is against sin, not against each other." -Jeffrey R. Holland

Happy New Year!

2012-01-02T11:51:00.001-08:00

There is something about the new year that gives everyone hope and that feeling of a new day, a new start. That's kind of how I'm feeling and I am so excited for the future! I have made my goals and have put together a plan to accomplish them. The one I want to share with ya'll is one that I have set many times before and never seemed to accomplish it. The goal is to lose weight and get in the best shape ever! I joined Golds ($20 a month with no contract, who can beat that?) and I am so excited that I tell everyone that I'm now a gym member. It's great motivation to know you're paying for something so you better get the most out of it. (I've never joined a gym before) I have talked to a few friends who are into being healthy and fit and I love talking about all the fun stuff with them, like nutrition and workouts. And hanging out with a certain someone who is very into eating healthy and working out sure helps with the motivation :) And since I have been feeling so good about myself lately, I feel like I have the confidence to go to the gym and not worry about anyone else staring or judging. So I feel like it's different this time.. I'm 100% serious about this goal and I am excited to look good and feel good! Here's to a very Happy New Year and may you all have the motivation and inspiration to accomplish your goals! :)

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T12:23:00.001-08:00

To continue my inspirational blog idea, :) I wanted to share this song about Christmas. I can't get the video to upload so I'll just put the link to the video on youtube. It's such a beautiful song!!!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uSKGt4vjSxU

Feeling Inspired

2011-12-22T21:59:00.000-08:00

This week has been kind of a roller coaster when it comes to my emotions. I go from wanting to cry, to being so angry I just want to punch something or someone, then to feeling totally happy and energetic. I have realized more and more just how much control I have over my emotions and my attitude. Tonight for a minute, I wanted to cry. The tears were barely starting to come when I said to myself, "Stop. You waste too much time being sad over things out of your control. You have so much to live for and so much to be happy about! You are young and you are beautiful and have so much to offer." As I had this pep talk with myself I grew incredibly happy and comforted. I am tired of the sadness and the thinking I'm not good enough or pretty enough. I am tired of depression and seeing people I am close to suffer from feelings of depression and hopelessness. Life is full of good things and we just have to learn to let go of the hurt and pain that comes to all of us. This brings me to my new idea and my new goal for my blog. I am going to make it a point every day to find something good and inspiring, which could be anything from a song, a story, a picture, etc and share it here.
To start I want to share this song. Since it is almost Christmas and our thoughts should be turned to Christ, I feel this song is appropriate for what my feelings are this season.

Gratitude- Day 17

2011-11-17T22:39:00.001-08:00

Am grateful for people who inspire me. There are so many and I am just blessed to have many people in my life who inspire me to be better. Because I have mentioned already many people who inspire me this post is dedicated to people I don't really know personally but they inspire me anyway. There are good people in this world and that gives me hope.

Gratitude- Day 16

2011-11-16T23:49:00.000-08:00

I'm grateful for my country and for my freedom. There's nothing like patriotism and the feeling you get when you hear the national anthem or God bless the USA or when you see videos of military men and women coming home to their families after serving their country, etc. It is all a blessing to live here and to be a part of it.

Gratitude- Day 15

2011-11-16T23:47:00.000-08:00

I'm grateful for the scriptures. I don't read them or understand them as much as I should but I do believe they hold the answers to all things and they are the words of God.

Gratitude- Day 14

2011-11-16T23:42:00.000-08:00

I'm grateful for friends- old and new. For friends who have been there for me in the past and for the memories I have of them. And for friends I continue to make. Specifically, a friend that has been there for me countless times in the last two months and who has taught me many things about myself.

Gratitude- Day 13

2011-11-16T23:21:00.000-08:00

I am grateful for technology, especially youtube because when I miss things like the CMA awards I can go back and watch performances like this one.

Gratitude- Day 12

2011-11-13T23:28:00.000-08:00

I am grateful for temples. They give me hope every time I look at one and I pray for the day that someday I can enter the temple and be sealed to my future husband. The promises of the temples are what keeps my faith and my testimony strong no matter what trials are thrown my way.

Gratitude- Day 11

2011-11-13T23:26:00.000-08:00

(Got some catching up to do. it would bug me if I skipped a day) I am grateful I am able to go to school at SUU. I generally hate school and can't wait to be done and out of Cedar City but I am glad I made the choice to go to school and to study what I'm studying. It has taught me a lot about life and about myself.

Gratitude- Day 10

2011-11-11T00:57:00.000-08:00

I am grateful for.... now don't criticize.... Mt. Dew Voltage. (Only the blue kind)It doesn't taste like Coke or Dr. Pepper or even Mt. Dew, which I don't like the taste of any of those mentioned. It is just delicious and refreshing to drink (I know, weird. I don't know how else to describe the taste :)

Gratitude- Day 9

2011-11-09T23:01:00.000-08:00

I am grateful for all my nieces and my nephew. They are just the cutest little kids ever with the sweetest spirits and I adore every one of them!!! I miss them every day and wish so much that I lived closer so I could see them more often!

Gratitude- Day 8

2011-11-08T11:07:00.000-08:00

I am grateful for the mountains and how they surround us so beautifully!

Gratitude- Day 7

2011-11-08T11:06:00.000-08:00

I am grateful for my Savior Jesus Christ and the Atonement.

Gratitude- Day 6

2011-11-06T23:08:00.000-08:00

Today, I am grateful I made it to work safely, driving in the snow/blizzard with both windshield wipers not working at all! (I prayed the whole way there while listening to the Forgotten Carols song 'Three Kings' ..."Three Kings found the way, and so can we!" And I did! :) I don't care what anyone says, I am a skilled driver. :) Also, that I made it home safely (again in the snow/blizzard) with one wiper working, thanks to a good friend who fixed it "temporarily" on his break at work.

Gratitude- Day 5

2011-11-05T19:21:00.000-07:00

I love music and am grateful for all kinds in my life. It's amazing how music can change my mood and can comfort me when I need it. :)

Gratitude - Day 4

2011-11-04T12:18:00.000-07:00

I am grateful for my siblings. (again, in no order) Daniel is a huge example to me and I miss him every day! His willingness to serve a mission is awesome and he is awesome! Natalie has been one of my best friends for a long time now. I am glad I have gotten to spend so much time with her and I am so very grateful for all the many things she's done for me!! I have always looked up to Liz from the time I was a little girl. She is independent, smart, and beautiful! Now and as her little girl grows up, she is going to be an amazing mother! (Already is) Amy is also someone I have looked up to for a very long time. I admire her and all that she does for her beautiful family! All my sisters are smart, beautiful, and kind and I love every one of them! Daniel has always been the favorite, I think. :) I love him, too, lots! Ben and Jarom are also good examples and I appreciate all they do for their families. :)

Gratitude- Day 3

2011-11-03T14:01:00.000-07:00

I am grateful for my grandparents. (These things are in no order, just random) Both my grandmas are two of the most amazing people I know! They are strong and have overcome many struggles and trials in their live. And my grandpas, too, are amazing and people I look up to with great admiration. I am so lucky and grateful that all 4 grandparents are still alive today and have lived close by almost my whole life! (Till I moved for college) They never missed an important event in my life and they strived to attend every other event or activity I had going on. I love them all lots!

Gratitude- Day 2

2011-11-03T13:55:00.000-07:00

Today (actually yesterday, I am just a day late) I am grateful for my parents. Actually, every day I am so very grateful for them. My mom is kind, caring, and fun! She never hesitates to help me whenever I am in need and I am not sure what I would do if she didn't help me and if she wasn't there when I need it. My dad is amazing! He is also kind and fun and also patient and loving. I love that I can say I never heard him raise his voice at me. He, too, is willing to help me whenever I am in need. I love you both dearly!!!

Gratitude Journal

2011-11-01T22:42:00.000-07:00

Day 1
I am grateful I have a job. I may complain about it a lot but at least I have a job, which is better than not having a job. It pays the bills!

Havasupai (again)

2011-07-19T23:38:00.000-07:00

I don't know exactly what it is about this place but I absolutely love it. Just over a week ago, I made my second trip down to Havasupai. And it was definitely worth the 2 days we got to spend down there, the money, and the blisters. After getting the days off work just the day before we left, I was so excited. We drove down Friday afternoon, got to the Hilltop (or trail head) at about midnight and started the ever so long night. 8 miles down and about 3-4 hours later we reach the village where the Natives live. We have to camp out in front of the tourist office and attempt to sleep while we wait for it to open. Once we pay and get our ticket thing we can finally continue 2 miles to the campground. About halfway to the campground though you get your first look:

And the picture just doesn't capture the beautiful blue color of the water and the way the morning sun hits the falls. It's spectacular.

Then hike about another half mile and you see this:

Havasu Falls

Then a half mile or so past the campground is another waterfall with quite the climb down to get to it:

Mooney Falls

I love this place and everything about it. I love that we can leave our cell phones, laptops, tv, etc behind and just enjoy the peace that these waterfalls bring. Despite the no showers, living off food you bring, (and for me that's cheese and crackers and power bars) the blisters from those dang Chacos, the squirrels, the sore muscles, and the overworked knee, I wanna go back.

He's an Elder

2011-06-01T23:06:00.001-07:00

Well, my "little" brother is now officially a missionary. It's bittersweet really. I'll miss him like crazy but am very proud of his decision to sacrifice two years of life to serve the Lord and preach the Gospel. He's such an awesome brother and a great example to me. It's kind of funny that when we were younger I could say I disliked him. I mean I loved him cause he was my brother but I really couldn't stand him. He drove me crazy. But I grew up and so did he, thank goodness. Anyway I just wanted to post some pictures of us since I never do and thought I should.

Just me and him went to Lagoon on Monday and had a blast!

Before taking him to the MTC.

He always has to make faces in these kinds of pictures.

Geez

2011-04-02T12:23:00.000-07:00

Can I just say the whole "I'm engaged" then "April Fools" is really old? Think of a new April Fools joke if you're gonna play one on Facebook...

Thought of the Day

2011-03-11T09:25:00.000-08:00

Life is good. I love getting in my car and a song comes on the radio that I just love. I turn it up and rock out. :) This morning I did that and I couldn't help but think how great life is and how the small and simple things can brighten your day. I wondered why I've wasted much time being so depressed..... Have a fabulous day!

Yo

2011-03-09T11:08:00.001-08:00

I was looking at my Facebook and at people's post and had the thought.. "Why am I even friends with you? I didn't even like you in high school." I think I'm gonna de-junk my Facebook..... I mean who cares how many 'friends' I have.

Randomness

2011-02-28T12:12:00.000-08:00

I have random thoughts I wanted to share/vent so here it is:
-What is with the PDA in my institute class and also the lack of the spirit? I really dislike my institute class this semester and that makes it harder to go every week. I rarely get anything out of it and comments made by the students are often pointless and drive away from the lesson the teacher is trying to teach. For example, today the lesson was on celestial dating and we were talking about flirting and the teacher asked girls to give advice to the guys on how to flirt. One girl said something like this "I'm like the guy in the situation. Like guys are the 'hunters' and that is me. I hate it when guys flirt with me; it turns me off." Really? Why do people have to share everything that comes to their mind? Some things are better left unsaid. And the engaged couple on the front row....way too much PDA for an institute class. Ugh.
-Speaking of dating, what does a girl have to do to get a guy to take her on a date? Frustrating. Dating is frustrating.

Here goes

2010-10-11T14:48:00.001-07:00

Long time, no blog posts. Oops. I have no idea if anyone other than my immediate family reads my blog and quite honestly it doesn't matter to me who reads this and who doesn't. It's purpose is for me so with that said I just want to express a few thoughts and feelings.... Warning: Will be spiritual :)

** We all go through trials and hardships in our lives. Some people's hard times may seem more difficult than others but who are we to judge how "difficult" ones trial is from our own? With that said, sometimes we feel like no one really understands, no one really knows how we feel and maybe, just maybe no human being really knows. But what's comforting to me is that we're never alone. Christ knows. He feels our pain, He knows what we're going through. Sometimes we just need to be reminded of this. :) And I want to add a quote from a talk given by Elder David. A. Bednar. It has become my favorite and I read it often:
-"There is no physical pain, no anguish of soul, no suffering of spirit, no infirmity or weakness that you or I ever experience during our mortal journey that the Savior did not experience first. You and I in a moment of weakness may cry out, 'No one understands. No one knows.' No human being, perhaps, knows. But the Son of God perfectly knows and understands, for He felt and bore our burdens before we ever did. And because He paid the ultimate price and bore that burden. He has perfect empathy and can extend to us His arm of mercy in so many phases of our life. He can reach out, touch, and succor--literally run to us-- and strengthen us to be more than we could ever be and help us do that which we could never do through relying only upon our own power."
** Happiness is "a state of mind." Being happy is in our control. I have heard many times that we can't let other people control our happiness. Although I may not always demonstrate this, I believe it. We can find things that matter in our lives and things we care about and find happiness in that. It is often the small and simple things. I am challenging myself to say to myself every day "I will be happy. I will take whatever gets thrown at me and not allow any one person ruin my happiness. I will smile often."
** I will find ways every day to serve others, to think about others. Too much lately, I have thought too much about myself. So here's to giving service and being involved with agencies that need volunteers and help. It's my career choice :)
** I think that's all for now. More stories and thoughts to come!

please and thank you!!

2010-06-16T22:43:00.000-07:00

Just need to vent a little.... Zion National Park is one place. There are no plural Zion National Parks nor is Zion possessing anything so therefore there is no s on the end of Zion. It drives me absolutely crazy that so many Utahns call it Zion's! I admit I use to because I didn't know any better but after a ranger I worked with got after me for calling it Zion's, I realized how awful it is to call Zion that and it has become a huge pet peeve. So please, don't call it Zion's anymore!! Thank you.

uh oh

2010-06-11T18:24:00.001-07:00

I have never liked pop all that much. Occasionally I like sprite and will sometimes crave it but I have never cared for any coke, pepsi, doctor pepper or mountain dew.... I don't really like the taste. I prefer water or lemonade. Well, a few days ago while at my friend's house he convinced me to taste his Mountain Dew- lime flavor.... one tiny sip and I am hooked. At work yesterday I started craving it, so on my lunch I drove to the gas station and searched for it but there was no green mountain dew. So I settled for the blue mountain dew which is a rasberry with ginseng flavor. It was good. I drank it throughout the day ignoring the possibility of it hurting my stomach (it hurt but not too bad.) Today, while in Aurora my mom mentioned she had a red mountain dew in the fridge that I could have and sure enough I like it too. I sure hope this isn't the start of a horrible addiction.........

Alright that's it

2010-05-11T21:15:00.000-07:00

I thought I would be fine with nothing going on these few weeks between school ending and my job starting but I am beginning to go a little crazy. I found out today my first day of work is June 1st... that's 3 weeks away!!! So I'm taking on the ukulele again hoping to actually learn how to play it this time. Wish me luck!

a few of my favorite things as of late

2010-05-10T19:29:00.000-07:00

1. my room in my new apartment. i love it!
2. candy! (4 weeks off it was a toughie)
3. new and old friends.
4. my niece and nephew. i just love it when i get to see them!
5. dating guys that live in the same town as me.. :) ! (*side-note: long-distance relationships are horrible and no fun!)
6. dancing with the stars
7. flash forward (intense show!)
8. having a clean kitchen... finally!
9. my hair. never thought i would say i love my hair but i do! i love how long it is getting and yes i love my color! (i have been letting my natural color grow in.)
10. staying up late and sleeping in. livin it up with school over and job hasn't started yet. woot! :)

my love

2010-04-19T13:56:00.000-07:00

I love music!! Mostly, though I love country music! It always describes exactly how I feel and it just makes me happy inside when I listen to it. Friday I went down to Vegas with a few friends and attended a free concert with Lady Antebellum and others. Danny Gokey was there as well and he was good (look him up). But I love Lady Antebellum and was so happy last night when they won 3 awards; song of the year, single of the year and vocal group. :) Also, last night Carrie Underwood won Entertainer of the year for the second time in a row being the only woman to win it twice. :) Anyway, here are some pictures from the concert-

We were dang close to the stage!

Wahoo!!

2010-04-07T21:13:00.000-07:00

So I recently decided to go off sweets for a little awhile. Crazy, I know but I am mainly doing it just to see if I can but there are a few other reasons. I hope it'll help me lose the weight I want to get in better shape and I have noticed a lot of stomach pains comes from eating too much sugar. Today is day 3 and I'm doing great! I have not been tempted at all to go buy a candy bar or anything like that. Even at the store today I wasn't tempted. It feels great to have the discipline. I now need to apply that to other areas in my life :)
I have also been running a lot more and that feels great! Here's to a healthier me!!!

Happy Easter!

2010-03-30T19:02:00.000-07:00

Quick Post

2010-02-01T21:23:00.001-08:00

I think since I have a blog, I should use it more often. So maybe I will blog more, maybe I won't. Anyway here's a quick update on my life. I am in my 3rd semester at SUU and still liking my major. After this semester my generals will be over with, which will be such a relief! I can really focus on the things that I really want to learn about. I am enjoying my classes this semester mainly because I am learning a lot. One class I am taking is Family Processes and Theory and it is so interesting to learn about the different theories about family and family development. Usually after taking a general class not of my choice I think what did I get out of this class? But with this class and another one I am taking called Cross-cultures Families and Marriage I am learning so much and every day I am always thinking about what I learned and relating those things to daily life. I hope as I take more classes in my field of study I will continue to enjoy it. I am also taking English 2010 which I regret that I put that class of for so long. It's been almost three years since I took English 1010 in high school and I've almost forgotten how to write, which I'm sure you can tell from reading this. The class is Writing about Music which makes it really fun and easier to write since I can write about the music that I love. I just might post some of the papers I write on here so you may read them. :)
So other than that, I am still looking for a job and have been since October. It has been a big struggle for me and I hate the fact that I may have passed up chances. But I am only looking to the future now and working even harder to get a job. It has been a huge blessing that my mom and dad have been willing to help me. I don't know what I would do without them! So thank you mom and dad! You truly are the best!!

Fun Birthday! :)

2009-10-12T16:31:00.000-07:00

Saturday I turned 21. Wahoo!! (Not that it means much since I don't drink or gamble but still...) It was probably the best birthday ever thanks to some awesome friends and family!! Thank You!!! A couple days before my birthday my parents drove down to Cedar to take me to dinner and they bought a pinata with a whole bunch of candy which was really fun! Thanks Mom and Dad! I shared the day with Natalie, Shalie and Tony and loved it! Natalie and Shalie put together a little adventure for me and I found many random presents like a coloring book, crayons, jump rope, light up sword, and a chalkboard. I think they had fun buying them. :) They did get serious at one point and Natalie gave me some SUU sweatpants which are so comfortable and Shalie gave me a book I have been wanting to read which is Dan Brown's new one called The Lost Symbol. Tony gave me a necklace which I love, a cute beanie and gloves. :) I already got my birthday present from my parents a few weeks ago because I just couldn't wait! A camera!!! Oh and my mom paid for half of the cost of my new running shoes. :) Anyway, we (Shalie, Natalie, Tony and I) ate some ice cream cake before heading down to St. George for some fun! We decided we just wanted to just play and have fun so we went and played some laser tag and then went to Olive Garden for dinner (no surprise there since it was MY birthday :) After dinner, since Tony had never been to the St. George Temple we decided to go there and just walk around. Such a peaceful place! Anyways, I had such a fun birthday sharing it with these people I just love!! Thanks guys!!!

Run

2009-09-09T21:14:00.000-07:00

I love to run. As soon as I get my clothes, my shoes, and i-pod on and ready to go I get pumped. Once I start to run it just feels so great to get out and go. It's such a stress reliever too and a really good break from homework. I have been running more and more and am starting to become addicted. If I don't go at least 3 times a week I go crazy and sometimes will go at 10 pm or even later than that. (My roommate makes me take my phone so I promise I'll stay safe!) I have recently got an application on my i-pod that tracks distance, calories burned, time, and average pace per mile and I love it! I finally get to track exactly how far I go and my exact time. Anyways.... I have had the same running shoes for probably about 3 and a half years now and it's time for a replacement, that is when I can afford them. (Not sure I can wait till Christmas.) So looking on some websites I some shoes I just love. They'll be in my dreams.....

Annoying Visitors

2009-08-10T22:54:00.000-07:00

I keep wanting to blog about the annoying things people say or do at my work. So here it is...

Annoying Things Visitors do and Advice to Any of Who Read.

-Don't go to a national park or a monument and ask "Is the drive very scenic?" or "Is it worth it?" (Well duh! It wasn't declared a national park just because.)

-People will bring a postcard or a magnet with a picture on it to me and ask "When was this taken?" (For real! Like I know. I don't know the photographers and when they take every one of their thousands of pictures. Just don't ask.)

-Cedar Breaks is at 10,350 ft in elevation. When it is thundering and lightning we close off the main overlook because it is very dangerous. People will come in and ask "When will you be opening the point?" My answer- "I don't know!! I can't predict when the sky will clear up... don't ask."

-Speaking of weather, people will ask while at Cedar Breaks "Is it always this cold up here?" My answer- "Nope, just on the day you're here. You're special." Ok so this might be rude and it's logical for people to ask about the weather up there but it just gets so annoying.

-Don't ask me to make your decision about which road to take, if you should take the drive, or if you should stay here or there, etc, etc. I'm not you and I'm not going to tell you what to do.

-People will stand there and look at something then turn to me and say "How much are the shirts?" or "how much are the postcards?" The things are priced for a reason. Look at them! I don't have the price of every merchandise memorized.

-And finally, if you're planning a trip to visit a few of the national parks don't take your dog! They are not allowed on trails and therefore you won't be able to do much because you don't want to leave the poor dog in the hot car all by itself. Use common sense please.

Stay tuned. There may be more later. (I should tell funny stories about funny and strange people. They're quite entertaining.)

Fun stuff

2009-08-10T19:30:00.000-07:00

Hello all! Just thought I'd check in and update my blog. I thought what's the point of having a blog if you never update it so here goes. Summer is almost over, school is almost here. YAHOO! Crazy to think that I, Alyson Hales, am actually super excited for school to start and for several reasons. One- Don't have to work quite as much. Two- My classes will be awesome! Three- I'm hoping to meet more people and have more fun! Four- It means fall is on it's way which means my birthday is coming up (21!) and most excitedly the PBR is getting closer. For those of you who don't know what PBR is it is Professional Bull Riding and is held in Las Vegas. A friend and I bought tickets about a month ago and I'm so excited!! One thing on my bucket list will be crossed off. :)

I've been having lots of fun the last month and half and wish I had pictures. 4th of July was super fun which included camping with family and going to the rodeo with my friend. On the 23rd of July I attended the Kenny Chesney concert in Salt Lake and it was AMAZING! I love concerts and I love country so I definitly had a blast! I was disappointed however that Sugarland, who was suppose to be one of the opening bands, could not make it. They were the main reason I bought tickets for this concert so I was definitly bummed. It is my dream to see Sugarland in concert and I will see to it!

About a week ago I went to Park City with my sisters and my mom for our annual mother-daughter do something fun day or weekend. We did some shopping, attended the Arts Festival, and rode the alpine slide. (well 3 of us did) I really wanted to do the zip line but didn't for a few reasons. Oh well, I will have the chance again I'm sure.

This last Saturday, I got a ranger I work with at Kolob to write a non-fee pass for Zion Canyon so I could go do some hiking. I took Natalie and Dustin with me and I had a fun time and hope they did too. We rode the shuttle all the way through, which I've never done before or at least don't remember it, hiked the Emerald pool trails, ate good pizza, and watched Harry Potter on the giant screen. I wanted to do some more hiking but since Natalie just got back from her week long hiking trip to Havasupi (spelling ?) in the Grand Canyon she was a bit worn out. I'm glad they went with me though so thanks!

This Friday is my friend Chelsee's wedding and I am looking forward to seeing her and a lot of other friends too. I'm sure it will be beautiful and I am excited for Chelsee. Next week, we are planning a hiking trip on the Subway in Zion and I am way excited for that! I have wanted to do the Subway since I started working at Kolob last year. Anyways, these are just a few more things going on before school starts. I wish I had pictures of these things but my camera's been acting up and sometimes I've just forgotten to take pictures. A new camera is my birthday wish I think. Either that or it is going on my Christmas list. (FYI... Mom :)

Blah, blah blah

2009-06-18T18:27:00.000-07:00

Natalie tells me I need to update my blog..... Geez, hypocrit. Maybe if I update she'll follow suit. Anyways I guess I haven't updated with what's new in my life for awhile so here goes. I quit Convergy's in May and it was such a relief. My last day there was the best day I ever worked there. I barely took any phone calls because I flat out didn't care if my stats were bad or if I got in trouble for randomly clocking into training and just sitting there. I didn't even have a team leader or manager over my last two weeks there. After I quit, my seasonal job I've returned to didn't start the first of June so I had like two weeks in between where I did nothing. I did that on purpose of course. I've started back at Cedar Breaks and Kolob Canyons working in the Visitors Centers and I'll admit I am already sort of annoyed with it but I'm not going to complain too much because it's much better than Convergy's. And don't get me wrong Cedar Breaks and Kolob Canyons are awesome places to work; I just get so bored and annoyed with people asking the same questions every day. I have decided that next summer I'm going to do something different; Like be a park ranger at Zion? I've talked to some rangers at Kolob about it and I'm pretty sure I'll apply especially since one of the rangers who worked at Zion and has worked at Kolob for a long time said I could use her for a reference. Anyways just sharing my insights about my work situation......

Hmmm... what is else is new and worth sharing? I guess nothing else. Oh wait! I wanted to share....

Today I found out where and when a 5K race is and I'm looking to get more information about it. It is August 22nd and is at Brianhead. I'm totally going to do it and am excited for it! My first 5k race; First step towards my biggest goal. I haven't been running lately so I guess I better get started. I plan to do a couple runs up at Cedar Breaks or Brianhead so I can get a feel for running at that elevation. 5K isn't much but hey it's a start. Next year I'll go for 10K maybe in July or so and then possible a marathon in October or something. I'm working up towards it.

Want to say Happy Father's Day to my wonderful father even though that's a couple days away. I'm bummed I won't be able to make it home because of work but I'm there in spirit. Thanks Dad for everything you do. I love you lots and you're the best! (I'm not sure he even reads this... oh well.)

Happy Late Birthday Mom!

2009-06-07T20:37:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to tell my mom how much I love and appreciate everything she does for me. Wish I could give her anything and everything she has ever wanted. (I'm not even good at gift giving :(

Anyways Thanks Mom for always being there for me and for helping me out when I need it. You're awesome! The best Mom ever!! Love you!

Oh and...

2009-04-24T11:13:00.000-07:00

One more thing I forgot to mention and wanted to is I've registered for Fall Semester and I am taking an American Sign Language class. YAH!!! I'm so excited! I can't wait! It's going to be super fun! Anyways... that is all.

Update

2009-04-22T12:30:00.000-07:00

Long time no blogging. In case anyone cares or checks up on me, here's a few things I am looking forward to in the near future:
-Semester is almost over. I have only 3 finals and have completed all of my projects. So yah! Here's to one semester down, five more to go.
-Moving to a new place. I enjoy change and I am excited for a new place. I hope and pray I have fun roommates this time! Pray for me! :)
-Quitting Convergy's and going back to the parks, my summer job. I have spoken to the manager at Cedar Breaks and Kolob Canyon's so it is official... I am going back! Yeah! Convergy's has been on my nerves as of late so I can't wait till I can quit. The past couple days I have been called stupid and useless more than once during my shifts and I even got screamed at by a lady whom I had done everything I could for her. I almost walked out of that place and never went back but thus I need money for a deposit on my new place. So I'm thinking 3 more weeks of that place... i can't wait!
-Summer. Have a few things planned such as vacations and new goals I have set for myself to accomplish this summer. I am determined to be a runner and I am finally going to stick to it.. hopefully. Could use anyone's support by asking me how my running is coming. Please? and Thank you.
-One thing has already happened which I looked forward to and maybe I shouldn't mention it mainly because you'll probably ask questions, but a couple people who have caused so much stress in my life a of late has left Utah for the summer! YAH! Yeah, I'll miss them and they're good friends but they've been gone for 3 days so far and I already feel relieved that they're gone. I feel like it'll be easier for me to move on now. Anyways.. that is all.
Have a fabulous day! Enjoy the warmth! :)

Totally Random

2009-03-09T11:25:00.000-07:00

Random Thoughts and Updates on ME:
1. It's time for me to get some contacts or maybe even glasses since contacts didn't work for me the first time. I sit really close to the front in my classes and I'm squinting to see the board. I also get a lot of headaches and I've decided it's my eye sight. Also I can't see a thing while I'm driving in the dark.... you should have seen me trying to find a friend's house the other night. Wow....
2. Stomach is starting to feel better. I don't seem to get the sharp pains quite as much. I want to say it's because I'm eating better but I'm not so sure. I mean, I am eating better just not as good as I should, yet. It could also be that I'm exercising more (although I get bad pains when I run but I'm not letting that stop me.)
3. School is starting to get overwhelming. I have tons of projects for one class and the due dates are all coming up pretty fast. For example, I have to do a demonstration after spring break. I haven't decided quite yet what I want to demonstrate.... it can be anything. Most people will probably demonstrate how to make some kind of food but since that's not really my specialty I have not a clue what to do! It can be an art project, a skill such as how to shoot a basketball or how to ballroom dance. Hmmm... any ideas? It would help a lot. Also, for the same class I have to do a graduation plan. I have to write down a schedule for each semester until I graduate! I just started! Oh boy... And I have to do job shadowing (interview or job shadow 3 different people in a career I want to go into) and a resoure file with five topics that have to do with my major (again, I just started! I don't have anything to put into file.)
4. And my final thought for the day.... Life has its ups and downs and sometimes we feel like there's no one there but I have come to realize that I'm never alone. The past few weeks I have come to rely on prayer, the scriptures and LDS music more than ever. These things make me happy and they give me comfort. I always feel the spirit so strongly when I surround myself with things of the gospel. Life is good. I have the gospel, I have a wonderful family, I'm getting an education, I have a job (even though I hate it) in this economy, and I do have friends who care. I am blessed in so many ways and because of that I am happy. :)

2009-02-09T21:45:00.000-08:00

4th Folder 4th Picture...

Here are the rules:

1. Choose the 4th folder where you store your pictures on the computer

2. Select the 4th picture in the folder

3. Explain the picture
4. Tag 4 people to do the same

5. No cheating (cropping, editing, etc)

I think I've posted this before but this picture describes probably one of my favorite nights ever! This night was an absolute blast!!! Basically, there was a big party earlier for Jonny's going away (which was also sad) so after everyone left us four Jonny, some kid I don't know, Bubba and me stayed up till 4:00 am laying on these mattresses in their garage. We talked, laughed, snuggled, and obviously ate cheesecake. I also remember being tortured by Bubba and Jonny, one of many times I had been, trying to give me a wet willy and trying to stick their fingers in my nose. Gross, I know but oh the good times and how I miss them!

I tag: Amy, Liz, Natalie, and Devri.

Help

2009-02-07T14:27:00.000-08:00

How do you put a picture in the title/header with your name on your blog? I'm not very good at that kind of stuff so please help. Thanks!

Ideas, anyone? Please share.

2009-02-01T13:31:00.000-08:00

For one of my classes, I have to do what's called a motivator and present it to the class. For those of you who don't know, my major is Family Life and Human Development emphasis in Family Services. This class is basically a introduction to Family and Consumer Sciences. The motivator is basically some kind of activity that introduces a topic or a lesson; I think this assignment is more beneficial for those who want to teach but oh well I guess I could use the ideas in case I need them someday. I have to share the motivator with this class for not more than 5 min, the motivator has to do something with Family Life and Human development so it can be anything that relates to early childhood development, nutrition, interior design, family services, etc. I need some ideas because I honestly have no idea what to do for this. So if any of you (especially those who might be in this field) have any ideas at all please share. Thanks!

Wow... what a week.

2009-01-25T19:27:00.000-08:00

Hey all! Just updating in case any of you read this. I've started school and almost love it. I say almost because I enjoy going to my classes (they're so interesting) but I hate the homework and tests. I guess there's no way out of it. So my schedule has just been crazy busy with school and work. I'm only working part time but I work till ten almost every night and I am still hating my job. But oh well.... This week has been more crazy than usual. I drove to Aurora three times this week; the first and second times for doctor's appointments. For awhile I had been having problems with my car so the second time I went back to Aurora my mom made me leave my car home so my dad could try and figure out what's wrong with it. I borrowed my grandma's old oldsmobile (gotta love it) and by saturday thanks to my awesome dad my car was ok to drive. So saturday (yesterday) after a long day we made a short trip to Aurora. Yesterday my sister Amy drove down to go skiing at Brianhead and me and Natalie joined her. My first time ever and I loved it, even though I am feeling it today. We took lessons and I struggled at first but soon I was doing good. I hope to go more often since Brianhead is so close and I heard night skiing is cheaper. Well that's all for now. Hope you enjoy my fabulous stories.

2009-01-04T16:03:00.000-08:00

Wow... it's been awhile. I guess I could go off with all the excuses as to why I haven't blogged but
I'll pass for now. Here's just an update on me and my life. Life's going good. I start school tomorrow and I'm both excited and nervous; more excited though. I went part time at my job and it's ok I guess. Well, ok I hate it but it's life and it's a job. So I'm still looking for a job so if anyone has any ideas or know anyone here in Cedar City, talk to me! Also, the bonus part about going to school is I can finally go to the doctor for my stomach. It's only gotten worse and I want it fixed! Anyways, that's pretty much it that's new with my life; well at least all that I want to share. So, maybe I'll get some pictures up some time and maybe tell a story later or something. We'll see how busy I get with school and work. Wish me luck!

I went to the Carrie Underwood concert in SLC!

2008-11-24T15:48:00.000-08:00

Ever since she made the top 12 on American Idol, she has been my favorite. I voted for her then and has been a huge fan ever since. So when Emily called me and asked if I wanted to go to a Carrie Underwood concert there was absolutely NO hesitation. I didn't care if I had to miss work. Seeing her in concert has been on my bucket list since American Idol and the dream finally came true!!! Last Wednesday, about 2:00 I made the drive to Salt Lake for the special event and I must say she was amazing! You think she sounds amazing on t.v. or the radio but you should hear her live. The minute she took the stage I was so happy and Emily and I had to stand and dance and sing at the top of our lungs because we were so excited! I was hoarse by the end of the night but very happy. :)

Call me weird but.....

2008-11-07T14:51:00.001-08:00

So, a few weeks ago while I was visiting a friend in Provo, I was introduced to something and it immediately sparked my interest. For quite awhile now, I have been wanting to purchase a guitar and learn how to play it. It's on my "I want to do this before I die list." But I have not given in to temptation just yet, luckily. The "something" I mentioned earlier is somewhat similar to the guitar and as I played around on my friend's I knew I wanted it. Even a week after that I was still pondering and wishing and longing on the thought of how cool it would be if I owned one and learned how to play it. So last Monday, I made my way into the music store and I bought it. Just like that and it's mine. Ok, alright I'll say what it is as long as you don't think I'm weird. (Mom, that goes to you.) I bought a ukulele. How cool is that? I've had it for a week and I have loved it and haven't regretted the purchase at all. I still haven't quite mastered the task of doing three things at once (strumming, changing cords, and singing) but I'll get there. Family- you should look forward to Thanksgiving as it is my goal to have learned a song by then and play it for you. Wish me luck!

With that said, I have one final thought for the day. I have the bestest friend anyone could ask for. He has been there for me when I've felt I had no friends here in Cedar City. He listens when I talk, he gives advice (excellent advice I must say), he helps me with whatever I need including school stuff, fixing my car, tuning my ukulele, etc, he has bought me dinner countless times and will not let me repay him at all in any form, etc etc etc etc. I could name everything he's ever done for me since I met him and I'd still be typing tomorrow. He's fun; he lightens up my mood when I'm having a hard time. I could never repay in any way for everything he's done for me and besides he wouldn't let me. So with all that said my initial thought is- I feel blessed and incredibly grateful to have him as my friend. His friendship to me is priceless.

Random Thoughts for the Day

2008-10-31T14:30:00.001-07:00

1. The ladies at the public library in Cedar City are NOT friendly whatsoever. (At least not to me, I try to say hello and smile but I get nothing back. )
2. There are some STRANGE people in the world. (And there are quite a few of them in my training class.)
3. I dislike Halloween. It is pointless and it is dumb. (Except for maybe when the little kids dress up, that's just cute!)
4. I am so so so grateful for my parents, my family and the Gospel.
5. Being in a room full of very LOUD people annoys me to no end and gives me a major headache.
6. I miss decorating buses for cheer. (We had to decorate our training classroom today at work and it reminded me of that.)
7. Anything I eat hurts my stomach except for maybe fruits and vegetables but when I eat those I had something else with it. So I think I may go on a fruits and vegetables only diet. (Hmmm... I'll have to think about that some more, It would be extremely hard for me and would take a lot of effort.)
8. I need some more friends down here... maybe some fun roommates would be nice.

That's all for now. Have a great day!

Update- I got a job

2008-10-28T14:05:00.001-07:00

So, I guess I should let everyone who reads my blog know that I got a job. It seemed for the past month (I started applying at places long before I actually became unemployed) I was applying EVERYWHERE! I was getting really frustrated and tired of filling out job application after job application. So pretty much out of desperation, I applied for Convergy's and immediately was set up for an interview two days after I applied, then was offered the job the day of my interview. For those of you who don't know, Convergy's is a company that does inbound call centers for different companies everywhere. Here in Cedar City, it is the Customer Service Line for At&t customers. It is strictly inbound so that is definitly a bonus. I had heard many things about Convergy's being a horrible place to work and how difficult the job was. BUT I decided to take the job because 1) During my interview process it didn't seem like a bad place to work. 2) Also during my interview, I saw dozens people come in and out and I thought "If he or she can do this job, I certainly can do it." 3) It pays well. (I won't be having a pay cut from my last job, which payed excellent.) 4) They offer tuition reimbursement plus benefits. 5) The center is never opened on Sundays.
So with those reasons, I figured after the five weeks of training I can do this job! I started my training yesterday and the training goes Monday thru Friday 7:00 AM (ick) to 2:30. So far, it's been a lot of information and there's some weird and interesting people in my training class. I hope to make friends with some of them since I will be seeing them every day for the next five weeks. (ick again) I'll survive and plus I'm thinking I'll get some confidence and it'll boost my self-esteem. Go ME!!!

Tagged. (i'm bored)

2008-10-22T13:18:00.000-07:00

Lucky #7
7 Things I can do...
7. I can eat the same thing every day
6. I can text
5. I can drive stick
4. I can play the flute (it's been awhile)
3. I can clean
2. I can watch football and love it
1. I can do western swing and line dances

7 Things I can't do...
7. I can't focus on one thing for very long
6. I can't cook unless it's macaroni and cheese or scrambled eggs
5. I can't play racquetball very well (learned that last night)
4. I can't stand job searching
3. I can't do the splits
2. I can't say no to pizza factory
1. I can't play the guitar (but i would like to)

7 Things I LOVE about Utah
7. It's beautiful
6. My home
5. The mountains
4. The people
3. The weather (4 seasons)
2. The snow!
1. The mountains (i know. i already said that. )

7 Things I say the most often are...
7. Ick
6. Lame
5. No, no luck yet
4. I'm bored.
3. HEY!
2. You're awesome.
1. I'm getting annoyed with...

7 Celebrity Admirations...
7. Leona Lewis
6. Ellen Degeneres
5. Garth Brooks
4. Amanda Bynes
3. Nick Zano
2. Julie B. Beck
1.President Monson

7 Favorite Foods...
7. Pasta
6. String cheese
5. pizza
4. Peanut Butter
3. No bake cookies
2. Bread
1. Bagels n' cream cheese

7 People to tag.. umm.... anyone.

Help!!

2008-10-16T15:01:00.000-07:00

In my last post I mentioned that I am now job-less and is on the desperate hunt for one! I have been looking since September and so far have had no luck :( (I'd prefer not to get in the restaurant field :( so i've been trying to stay away from that.) So if anyone knows anyone here in Cedar City or knows of any job openings or ANYTHING I could use all the help I can get!! Thanks!

My season is over.

2008-10-15T08:42:00.000-07:00

Two days ago I worked my last day at Kolob Canyons and three days ago was my last day at Cedar Breaks. So you're probably wondering am I sad? I wondered that too and I guess the answer is yes and no. First we'll start with why I will miss it. (1) Most would think it would be a pain to drive so far up the mountain every day to get to work and I guess gas-wise it is but I considered myself lucky. I have been able to see the mountain change as seasons have changed. June and July the meadows up there were covered in wildflowers and it was beautiful!!! Then a couple weeks ago Cedar Breaks got snow!! Last weekend it snowed saturday night and I almost thought I was going to have to call in but I woke up Sunday morning and decided to try it. Well a little ways up I found the snow-plow truck and followed it all the way up which I felt much better about the drive. I didn't slide once! And the drive was absolutely beautiful! It was my favorite part of the whole season and I wished I could have stopped and took pictures but considering it was really icy I decided against that. Some of the leaves were still yellow and those mixed in with the white, snow-covered trees was gorgeous! I loved it. (When I got up there a few of the rangers had called in and said they weren't coming in because of the snow but since I made it up just fine they decided to stay open.) (2) The second reason I'll miss it is the people I've gotten to know while working with. And it's mostly the people at Cedar Breaks I'll miss. They have been fun and I've enjoyed working with them.

Mainly the reason why I won't miss it is because it did get boring most days and I was at the point where I was annoyed with every person that walked in and asked the same questions everyone else did. I guess that's the problem with working with the public especially tourists and foreigners. Little things bothered me and on Monday I could not wait to get out of there!!!

So now I am without a job and I am getting really sick of job searching. :( I feel like I've applied everywhere! But I really need a job so I can't give up till I get one. I pray and hope something will turn up!

Tagged!! YAH!

2008-09-30T20:09:00.000-07:00

Thanks sisters for remembering me!! :) I've wanted to be tagged for awhile....

8 Random Things:
8 things I am passionate about: 1. books 2. my family 3. the Gospel 4. music 5. mountains 6. shopping 7. cheerleading (even though i don't do it anymore i am still passionate about it.) 8. friends

8 words or phrases I say often: 1. what's up? 2. lame. 3. um 4. really? 5. awesome 6. i'm not vegetarian i just don't like meat. 7. i don't know ask a ranger (except i don't do that quite as much anymore... but i use to say it all the time!) 8. sweet

8 things I want to do before I die: 1. tour all over Italy! 2. learn sign language 3. learn guitar 4. run a marathon 5. learn to ski 6. hike the subway in zion 7. see a play in new york 8. go to a super bowl football game.

8 things I have learned from my past: 1. Friends will come and go but family will always be there!! 2. People (guys) can't make you happy YOU can control your happiness 3. some things aren't meant to be said out loud. 4. get to know someone before you make a judgement about them. 5. He will never abandon you and He will always be there you just have to ask!! 6. there's more i've learned but my mind's blank...........

8 places I would love to see: 1. Europe!!! 2. New York 3. Australia 4. Yellowstone 5. Hawaii 6. Jerusalem 7. More of Utah. 8. Everywhere! The world

8 things I currently need or want: 1. my own laptop 2. new clothes and new shoes 3. some books. 4. a dog! 5. a new car 6. to shower 7. more friends. 8. my teeth and my stomach to stop hurting.

Reading

2008-09-16T20:53:00.000-07:00

I love books. I think I have loved them even before I could read. I can slightly remember a time before I could read when I would watch my older sisters with a novel in their hands and wonder how they could memorize all those words! I was jealous of them and couldn't wait for my chance to read a novel not those short children's books. It seems in the past I usually always have a book on hand I'm in the middle of and I use to have to read before I ever went to sleep. This summer my job, I have to admit, is definintly one of the easiest jobs I've ever had (besides having to answer so many questions I use to not know how to answer) It gets boring at times and ten hour shifts can get long!! So I always have a book with me and if I don't have one I go crazy! Somedays, like today, I finish my book by 11 or 12 which leaves me with nothing to do all day but sit and hope that someone will text me and entertain me. Reading a entertaining novel is so thrilling sometimes I get lost in another world so easily I forget where I'm at. Now that's what books are all about. Here are some of my recent favorites that I've read and loved. Lois Lowry's The Gift and also Gathering Blue. If you haven't read these I highly recommend them. Apparantly there's a third book that is a companion to these two that I have yet to find. It is called Messenger. Also, since I'm a fan of romance novels I've read some books by Nicholas Sparks that have been entertaining but also maybe a little too romantic and a little too detailed. I haven't decided quite yet if I really like Nicholas Sparks even though I like the movies that are based on his novels. My favorite books of all time are The Chronicles of Narnia, The Work and the Glory Series, Twiligh Series (of course), and Les Miserables.

Random Post

2008-09-15T21:39:00.000-07:00

So here's some random pictures of recent happenings since I haven't posted for awhile. So Enjoy!

I just had to post this one cause it's hillarious!! This was when me and Natalie brought Bubba and Seth to Aurora to the derby and we rode our parent's 4-wheelers. This just shows how crazy my friend is!!!

Natalie and me on our hike to Angel's Landing.. the coolest hike ever!!!

ok that's all you're gonna get... I'll post more later...........

Thanks Emily!

2008-08-19T09:59:00.000-07:00

Finally!! I know it's been awhile since I've posted something new but I've pretty much just been up to the same stuff. And I have tried not to use Natalie's computer quite so much (I need my own... mom remind me I need to talk to you about something.) Anyways, I love our new place. It's pretty nice and our room is huge compared to the other one. The only downfall is we haven't had t.v. yet and there is no microwave :( If you know me a microwave is almost essential to my diet. But I've survived. I know you all know about my little wreck on mom and dad's 4 wheeler. Well I am still sore from the fall. I'm pretty sure I landed on my shoulder pretty hard, it is still sore! But it is getting better so i'm lucky I didn't do anything real bad like break it. Ugh that would be painful.

Two weekends ago my friend Emily came and stayed with me for a couple days. It was a really fun weekend as it always is when I hang out with Emily (we go crazy sometimes) Not only was it fun but she picked a good weekend to come; a good weekend meaning I really needed it. I was in a bad mood that week so it was fun. She arrived Friday night and we ended up just staying up talking and laughing. The next day we got up and with a few friends went to Kolob Canyon to go hiking. I've worked there all summer yet I've never hiked the Taylor Creek Trail, which is a popular hike there. The hike was really pretty and the temperature was perfect considering how hot it has been in the past. Anyway, that night Natalie and I hosted a house warming party which was fun besides the fact everyone left too early because they had other things to attend. (our fault for starting it too early, I think) And once again Emily and I stayed up late talking and laughing. So I just wanted to say thanks to Emily (even though she doesn't even know I have this blog so she probably won't ever read it) for a fun weekend and helping me out. :)
I had a picture but it doesn't seem to be wanting to upload so sorry no picture this time.

Girl's Day

2008-07-29T08:55:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to say thanks to my awesome mom and sisters for such a fun girl's day. We started the day by driving up to Cedar Breaks with a lunch. We took a little walk but since we were all wearing flip flops and sandals we didn't go very far. But it was still fun and I was able to show them what I've learned while working (they mentioned they were impressed because I'm not usually the one that knows things.) After that we headed to St. George and stopped at Kolob on the way. Since I've only token that drive once I didn't know as much but it was still beautiful!

At Kolob I just sit in the Visitor's Center, I never get out. Then we made it to St. George and killed time before the play, Les Miserables. I have to say I loved the play!!! Despite the 100 degree weather at midnight I didn't want it to end. I will for sure have to see it again. Anyway thanks guys for a fun day and I can't wait for next year!!!

Looking back

2008-07-18T15:07:00.001-07:00

Lately, I’ve been reminiscing a lot on my high school days as a cheerleader. It’s been just over a year since I’ve put on that skirt and yelled for my team and oh how I miss it. Cheerleading was my passion. It was my life. Everything I did revolved around cheerleading. I guess four years of it just wasn’t quite enough since now I would give anything to go back and just cheer for one more game, do one more dance and do one more stunt. I loved everything about it including the early morning practices, the long bus rides, and the long and endless hours of perfecting a solid competition routine. There was something about yelling, jumping, dancing and stunting that made me feel happy and energetic. I felt a sense of pride in my school when I was cheering and at times I felt tears of joy because of the school spirit we had. However not all times as a cheerleader were happy. Times like when a team had an upset loss, or when we didn’t do well at cheer competition, and even when my dream of becoming cheer captain didn’t happen brought tears of sorrow and upset. But, now as I look back these things weren’t what really mattered. I don’t remember now what games the teams lost and what the scores were and because I had so much fun my senior year I was glad I wasn’t made captain. All that matters now is the memories I made. And what great memories!!! I will defiantly never forget them. We cried when it was all over but now as I reminisce I smile because it happened.

Red heads becoming extinct?

2008-07-17T09:23:00.000-07:00

So as you all know, I have always hated being a red head. I have dyed my hair so many times just to hide that I was a red head. Finally in April, I decided my hair was becoming more and more unhealthy from dying it so many times. It seemed I was dying it every two months just because the roots were red while the rest of my hair was dark and that drove me nuts. So I finally decided to go back red, my natural color and grow it out long. Even though I had a hard time with it at first (I hated it after Julee dyed it) I'm starting to get more and more use to it and am actually starting to like it. I'm sure you've all heard that red heads are becoming more and more extinct. I've looked at articles and some say that red heads will become extinct by 2100, some say they'll become extinct by 2060. One article even said red head genes "will dilute out and become rare, but there are a variety of other factors that can change hair color that are not really understood well right now." It may be true, it may not be. All I know is that I'm one of the 4% of the world's population that have red hair and I feel lucky.

2008-07-08T12:24:00.000-07:00

I LOVED this concert!!! It was so amazing! It was the top ten and each one sang about three songs except David A and David C, they sang about four or five. Every single one of these singers sounded so good... I decided it's so much better to hear someone live than T.V. David Archuleta is still the most popular I think. In between his songs he couldn't even talk because everyone was screaming so loud and wouldn't stop! Anyways, yes Mom this concert was worth the drama, the money, and the drive. It was awesome!!!

Las Vegas

2008-07-08T10:21:00.000-07:00

This picture is kind of weird cause it's sideways and upside down but I actually really like it. Anyways this weekend was so much fun!! First on Saturday we arrived in Vegas at about 4:00 and after Mat tried to give us directions to his house but then decided to just meet us somewhere and have us follow him we made it to his house. FYI he has a pretty nice place and a very nice truck!!! Then Mat took us to dinner at Olive Garden. (his treat even) After the concert we ended up just chilling and watching a movie at Mat's house. On Sunday after we were slow getting up and getting ready so by 12 or so we decided that we might as well do something while we were there (Emily was fine driving back to SLC late.) So thanks to Mat he drove us down the strip so we could take pictures and stuff. It was really fun and I enjoyed the weekend a lot. But I have my awesome cousin to thank for letting us stay at his house and buying us dinner and driving us around. I owe him big!!!

A Fabulous Night

2008-06-30T11:49:00.000-07:00

I think this is what I have loved most about moving to Cedar.... the guys. This night was an absolute blast and this is the only picture Ihave to show for it (great picture though, huh?) Well my friend Jonny (the guy on the far left) moved from Cedar yesterday because he is done with school. On Thursday Bubba and Natalie planned this BBQ as a going away party at Bubba and Jonny's house. It was quite the party for being planned the same day. Forty five to fifty people showed up and some people Bubba and Jonny didn't even know. They had food, games and a movie on a big projector in the garage. Everyone left by 12 except me and this guy named Dean. Well me and these three guys ended up staying out in the garage till 4 in the morning. Ask me what we did till that late and I honestly couldn't tell you. We just talked and laughed the whole night. Anyways, I have loved hanging out with these guys and I can't wait to meet more people and have more fun!!!

My Job

2008-06-26T11:09:00.000-07:00

This is at Cedar Breaks, my view right from the visitor's center. If you haven't been there I highly recommend you go. I don't have pictures of Kolob Canyon yet but I will soon; that place is a beautiful place as well except I have to drive up the road to see it. My friend teases me all the time because I have a really good job with the best pay considering how easy it is. In case you were wondering exactly what I do I basically just run the little gift shop inside the Visitor's center. I also get bombarded with questions from the tourists and at first I knew nothing which was quite embarassing. I am, however, getting better at answering questions and telling people about the park so I don't always have to say "Go ask that Park Ranger over there, she'll know more than me." Anyways, sometimes when people walk in the door of the VC (visitor's center) and see the view from the window, which is usually the first thing you'll notice, they'll say things like, "WOW! what a great place to work." One foreigner said something like "So we have to travel 100,000 miles across the world to see this and you get to see it every day." That made me think about how lucky we are to live in such an amazing place. As I drive up the mountain to work, which is a very pretty drive, I always think about how blessed we are and how great Heavenly Father is for creating this world, which is hard to comprehend. We who live in Utah have so many things to see and it amazes me how many people have never been to these National Parks or National Monuments. So, go out and enjoy the nature around you; it definantly is a gift from God.

New to the blogging world

2008-06-25T18:50:00.000-07:00

So I decided since I enjoy reading other people's blogs so much (especially my sister's) I thought it would be fun to create my own. Mostly I'll just share what's going on with my life and maybe some random thoughts. I don't know yet, we'll just see how it goes. Hope you enjoy and I hope I can figure all this out!!