twelvetwelvetwelve

12-12-12.

This is happening right now.

Unfortunately, I'm the loser that didn't screenshot my phone at 12:12pm on 12-12-12.

I'm really broken up about it.

(not really)

But, this is really cool.

And won't happen again until 1-1-2101

Which I will obviously be alive long enough to see.

So, I don't know why people are making such a big deal about today.

Psh.

:)

Happy 12-12-12!!

So much to be thankful for

Thanksgiving has come and gone.

But, I have so much to be thankful for.

Like Pacific Coast Sectionals happening at my rink in Provo. And seeing all my dearest friends compete again. I have missed SWP skating SO much. I love you guys and I'm thankful for the impact you all have had in my life. I'm thankful for skating and the discipline it's taught me. Skating is such a magical sport. I mean, who else can say that they can defy gravity? Not many. I love it. I love it. I love it.

Or the time China flew up to Utah.

Those three days you were here meant more than you know. I love my best friend and I love her visits! Thanks for seeing Breaking Dawn at midnight (ahem, 10pm) with me when no one else would ;) Thanks for making the drive back to California that much more enjoyable. I'm thankful for the friendship you've given me. No one understands me quite like you do and no one laughs at the same stupid things we do ;) I'm thankful for your loving patience when I call you in a panic about dumb things. You've always been there for me and I appreciate that more than you will ever know. You've been such a positive influence in my life and I'm so blessed to have the privilege of calling you my best friend. I love you, dneirf doog <3

I'm thankful for my family. Immediate and extended. And for being able to spend an entire week with them in the best state in the country. They are the best. I'm thankful for all the support they have given me the past 20 years. I'm thankful to have had them when I went through hard times this summer. I'm thankful for their prayers and unconditional love - I definitely feel it, even being 650 miles away :) I have missed my family! I love you guys so much!

I'm thankful for Kaleb, who flew down to California to spend Thanksgiving with me and my family.

 And for making the 9 hour car ride back to Provo with me. That drive is not easy, but he made it bearable and enjoyable. I'm thankful for his continuous patience - we all know I need someone who can be patient with me. ;) I'm thankful for his unconditional love and support in all that I do. I'm thankful for the kindness of his heart and for not putting up with my crap...in a loving way ;) I don't know how I landed such a magnificent guy, but I'm counting my blessings everyday I'm with him. Thank you for loving me! I love you!

I'm also grateful for these girls.

They make my day. Always. I'm grateful I chose to live in freakin' expensive Helaman Halls freshman year. I feel so blessed to call these girls my friends. They've got my back no matter the situation. They bring so much joy to my life. I know I am a better person because I know them and they bring out the absolute best in me. Amy, Caroline, Caitlin, Ali, Elise, Christelle, Heather, Erynn - you girls are THE BEST and I don't think you will ever understand how much you mean to me. Thank you for your friendship and unconditional love! I LOVE YOU SLUS SO MUCH.

Tis the season.
Happy Holidays and Happy Finals!

Wake me up when...October ends?

October is over.

It's November.

Whaaaaaa?

SO MUCH HAS HAPPENED. 

It's funny because I started blog posts for these events that have already happened . . .

But I never finished them.

Ladies and gentlemen, here is a post of all my unfinished blog posts.

Oct. 19 - Halloween parties galore! Or, just two. Went to Scott's place to bake and decorate Halloween cupcakes and then to my coworker Keri's place for a bit. But, the night is not over yet! Kaleb then took me to Nickel City after my crazy Halloween filled night for our first date.

Oct. 20 - BYU v. Notre Dame away game. We bought our Lil Caesars and settled into our living room for this game. Such a good game! Our boys fought a good fight. Went and threw the ol' pig skin around with Caitlin, Elise, Summer, and Kaleb and then Kaleb took me to see "Perks of Being a Wallflower" with some Cocoa Bean at Rock Canyon after the movie. Delish.

Oct. 26 - Corn maze! For the past 2 years, we have gone to a corn maze around Halloween time and this year was going to be no different. We usually go to Corn Belly's but our poor college student wallets couldnt handle it this year. So, Ali, Amy, Summer, Kaleb, Colton, Danny, and I went to a corn maze in Provo. Not nearly as fun but at least we made it to one to keep the tradition alive :)

also Kaleb and I became "official" that night :)

Oct. 27 - The night of the Halloween Show we had been working so hard on! My kids did FANTASTIC. I had a Purple People Eater, Jack Skellington, pirates, and a "wicked" pair of witches. I have never felt so proud! To end the show, my coworkers and I choreographed our own routine to perform. Such a success!! The ward Halloween party was that night so after the show, we quickly made the drive up to Alpine. Success.

Oct. 31 - Halloween this year consisted of watching Newsies, tie dying our Disneyland shirts, and watching Donnie Darko. Not your typical Halloween, but it was nice to stay in and relax this time!

Nov. 1 - finally made it to November! Deadtooth performed at Awful Waffle so Kaleb, Summer, and I went and supported our boys. AND THEN IT WAS OFF TO CALIFORNIA FOR ELISE, CAITLIN, KALEB AND I. We left around 11:30pm and got in around 7:30am -ish.

Nov. 2 - Beach beach beach! Oh, how I have missed the beautiful ocean! And, west coast sushi. Yesss. Bryce's senior night for football was later that evening and they won, 43-41!! I could have cried. So proud of all he has accomplished this season and I know this injury will not keep him down for long.

Nov. 3 - DISNEYLAND!!!! Happiest place on earth just got a little happier because WE HAVE ARRIVED. Pure Disney magic from 9:30am-12am? Yes please.

Nov. 4 - Dad's birthday! Went to sacrament meeting and then had to take off back to Provo. That drive back is always TERRIBLE. My weekend at home was GLORIOUS but way too fast. Good thing I'll be home again 7 days!!

Pacific Coast Sectionals are happening this weekend and I could not be more excited to watch some fantastic skating and see all my favorite skaters from back home. 

Oh, and China flies into Utah in 4 days.

I'm a little excited.

Happy November!

Magical weekends are the best kind of weekends

Why you may ask?
Oh, well let me just tell you.

On Thursday, Elise, Amy, Ali, and I all went to go see Pitch Perfect - a movie we've been dying to see for FOREVER. (not really). It exceeded ALL expectations. I have not laughed so hard in a movie in a loooong time. So so so good.

Friday: Elise and I drove up to SLC to pick up JPotts! (Jacob Potter for the unfortunate few that do not know who he is) We went to The Gateway mall for breakfast at Starbucks and then headed back to Provo. One of my favorite Corner boys was making cider at his home in Alpine so some of the roommates and I went up with another one of our favorite members of Corner house to partake of this liquid gold. Absolutely delicious with our grilled hot dogs and halloween cakes ;) We watched this awful movie called Mars Attack that was funny and unsettling at the same time . . . at least Cait and I laughed throughout the movie at parts that weren't supposed to be funny. (Frahnk?)

Saturday was . . . interesting. The coworkers and I got to the rink early to work on our coaches' routine for the upcoming Halloween show which is going to be AMAZING . . . if I do say so myself. (so, make sure you all come . . . Oct. 27th at 7pm)

BYU V OREGON ST! I was really excited for this game because it was a BLACKOUT! It was so SICK. The stadium looked amazing and the atmosphere was fantastic. Our boys were doing SO WELL up until the last few minutes of the game. :( I was sad, but super proud of our boys. They played their hearts out.

In honor of Christelle and Caroline's birthdays, we went to the Spaghetti Factory for dinner and after, Caitlin, Kaleb, and I went to go see Pitch Perfect . . . again. Not even mad about it.

Sunday was CRAZY busy. Right after church, Elise and I drove to SLC again to pick up JPotts and bring him back to Provo. When we got home, some of our friends came over to watch the Les Mis 25th anniversary concert . . . something that Cox 22 is shamelessly obsessed with. We finally finished off the night with Wall-e at Corner house; a great ending to a fantastic, crazy busy weekend.

Here's to more weekends like this one.

Wake me up when September ends

It's October?!

Where did the time go?

Guess it's time for another update in Indy's life . . .
On September 22, some of the lovely ladies of Cox 22 went on a group date. We carved watermelons and played fugitive. You better believe me and Victor's watermelon looked the best.

 The amazing Brigham City Temple Dedication was Sept. 23rd and we had the privilege of watching the broadcast from the Marriott Center. Amazing.
On September 25th, I found out that my dad and brother were officially coming to Utah for the weekend! You can say I was a little excited . . . I also met up with a friend from my ward last year at Slab Pizza. If you have never gone, go RIGHT now. I have am a Slab believer. Holy cow. SO good. Oh yeah, and it was good to see Andrew, too. Hahaha ;)
SEPTEMBER 27TH - AKA THE DAY MY BOYS FLEW IN. Best. Day. Ever. Took them to Happy Sumo after I picked them up . . . they weren't impressed. They are too spoiled with the FRESH fish living in Southern California . . . haha.
Friday the 28th, we went to the Skyroom with the Dean of students. Delicious. I had to work later that afternoon/evening so I dropped the boys off at the tailgate. They had a terrific time at their first BYU football game! Go Cougs! 47-0 against Hawaii! :) We finished the night off with some Brick Oven with Preston and then headed back to Orem. Successful day, indeed.
Saturday, I had work in the morning but then took the boys to J-Dawg's - their first! They LOVED IT. Another success. But, how can you NOT love it?! Answer - you can't.
After lunch, we headed to the bookstore so they could buy some more BYU apparel and then headed over to Miller Park to watch the BYU alumni baseball game. Dad even got to meet one of my best friends, Des! Didn't get to see him pitch, but it was SO nice to see the kid. Then, we finally made our way to Hokulia . . . dad had been waiting two days for this. And it was so worth it. Now, you have to remember that he grew up in Hawaii with Matsumotos - the best shaved ice. And, he said Hokulia was even BETTER. Like, what?
Yup. He absolutely loved it. He even said they were going back for more after dinner, haha. Dinner rolled around and we ate at Costa Vida where we quickly ate so he could go back to Hokulia, hahaha. They headed back to Orem to rest and watch some football and I stayed in Provo to watch some of my favorite boys perform with their band Deadtooth at a party. SURPRISE - we weren't actually invited to this BIRTHDAY party. Talk about awkward. But, unfortunately, after only 3 songs, they got shut down by the police due to a noise complaint. Watch a band get shut down by the cops? Checked off the bucket list.
Sunday, the sad day. The day I had to take them to the airport. We stopped at Cabelas on our way to SLC to walk around - one of dad's favorite things to do - and then again at Temple Square.
That goodbye was so difficult. This weekend was so amazing and wonderful and way too quick. I cried all the way back to Provo.
I am so thankful for the WONDERFUL men in my family. I got to bond with my little brother again, something I missed terribly and I was able to finally hug my dad. I missed my mama and my Brandon this weekend, but I know they'll make a trip out here, soon :)
Now, enjoy some pictures from my magical weekend.
Happy October!

Skyroom :)

 Football!

 Alumni baseball game

We love Hokulia :)

My Baki

My daddy :)

Oops. A lot to catch up on.

So . . . I always say I'll blog more.

And then I forget.

But, I do have pictures this time.

So, hopefully that makes up for not blogging in weeks . . .

August 28th: AKA: My birthday!

 Yay! I'm not a teenager anymore! Spent the day teaching the UVU figure skating class and then going back to the rink in the evening for a meeting. When I got home around 9pm, my cute roommates decorated my apartment and had people come over for cake.

August 30th:

 It's game day! BYU v. Washington State. We had FANTASTIC seats - 6th row! And, we won 30-6. BOOYAH. And, it was my favorite Bishop's birthday. Happy birthday, Bishop Harris! 

AND, it was my best friend's 21st birthday. Happy birthday, Elder Troester! :)

September 1st:

Happy birthday to my baby brother, Baki! Bryce, I can't believe you're 17 and a senior in high school. Unreal. Where did the time go?!

 

When did you grow up? :(

 Also, Happy birthday to my girl, Caitlin!

Later that evening, we went to Red Robin for dinner to celebrate our births.

Happy freaking birthday....to us.

September 3rd: Happy Labor Day!

For the holiday, we went to the Alpine Loop to go hiking!

 Last November, Lisey girl and I went on the same hike.

So, we took a repeat picture almost a year later :)

After hiking all day and a trip to the Malt Shoppe, the roommates and I went out to the squaw peak lookout at sunset!

My cute roommates, with Erica filling in the spot for Summer ;)

September 8th:

BYU v. Weber State! Crushed them 45-13 LIKE BOSSES.

But...it was wicked hot! I got sunburned like crazy. So, we left during the 4th quarter with 5 minutes remaining. 

After the game, Caitlin and Elise and I went to go get shaved ice at Smith's to find that it is GONE. Like...what? It was just there a few days ago! But, have no fear, because we just got ice cream instead ;)
That evening, we had our ward's opening social - a dance. The Franks girls and I ate yummy food and then danced it all off. Sounds like a good deal to me.

Later that night, Des and I finally got to see each other! I saw him on my birthday but only for like . . . . 2 seconds. So, it was so refreshing to see him and talk and catch up a bit :)

In other news, I dropped my classes this semester. It has been tough going to school for a year straight, so I think this break will definitely be beneficial :)

More time to work and play for Deanna!

Happy Fall :)

Two weeks at home = two weeks too short

On August 10th, I flew home at 6am.

On August 25th, I flew back to Provo at 8pm.

Shortest two weeks of my life.

My mama and I got to spend so much time together though :)

We went to the movies to see Dark Knight Rises.

We went shopping.

We went to the beach.

It was magical.

I got to see Austin a few times (thanks again for coming over!)

I went to lunch with Liana and met her beautiful baby boy.

I went to BWW, my favorite place to eat in Southern California, with Ashley, Tanner, and Kyle - last time seeing both boys before they leave on their missions! Ashley and I got Pinkberry and stayed out way late chit chatting away. Love you, girl! Can't wait for you to come down to Provo throughout this semester :)

And, I got to see my sweet girl, China Kae Loza. A definite must before I left. I love her. We went to Chipotle, went to Bryce's merit badge award night, went to see Sparkle, and she stayed the night. Perfection. Still didn't feel like enough though :(

I also got to watch Bryce play football! A scrimmage and a game. So good. I have missed watching High School football :( He is such a giant now... :'(

But, it was so good to be back in my home ward and see all the people I love.

And, of course it was great to see my family.

The day I left, the family and I went to the Redlands temple with the YM/YW and then to the Boiling Crab for lunch/dinner. So fun! Our family always have such a blast together :)

Worst part - we ended up being late to the airport. Literally got to the airport 10 minutes before my plane was set to take off. Luckily, they were delayed about 15min so I had some cushion. 

BUT.

My dad dropped my entire family at the curb so we could check myself and my bag in.

He went to go quickly park and run back in time to say goodbye.

But, he didn't make it :(

I was literally checking my ticket in at the gate when I saw him running across the street towards the gate. But, I had to run to security, so I missed him. I was crying while running to security. Not a good combination.

Made it to the terminal with 5 minutes to spare. 

Then, we didn't even take off until 45 minutes later.

It was tough.

But, it was a great few weeks home!

Short.

But, great :)

Thanks family for making it so fun and for loving me so much :)

Happy first and second day of Fall 2012 semester! 

I'm a Junior now.

And, it's my birthday.

So, I'm 20 now.

TIME IS FLYING BY SO FAST.

Summer - Finals

Finals have started.

I had my anatomy lab final this morning.

I have my geography final tomorrow morning.

Then, when finals officially start next Wednesday, I have my anatomy lecture final.

Then I need to test my skaters in Learn to Skate on Thursday.

Then, I'm flying home Friday morning for two weeks.

 On top of all that, I try to fit as much time as I can into watching the Olympics.

Oh my gosh.

Busy, busy week ahead.

I cannot wait to go home and not have to even think about school.

Just 7 more days.

that is all.

Happy Finals!

May the odds be ever in my favor.

Summer Olympics

I love the Olympics - Winter and Summer.

But especially Winter. But, I may just be biased..........

Summer is great though, too. I lovelovelove gymnastics. and swim. and diving. love. it.

Whenever i think of Summer Olympics, I think of this clip. Don't watch the whole thing (unless you want to..) but skip to 4:15 - 4:22

i love this movie. if you haven't seen Stick It, do yourself a favor: slap yourself for not seeing it before and then go rent it. now. this movie is pure genius. 

but, really? that "olympiiiiiiiics" line gets me EVERY TIME. i laugh so hard, i cry.

so, every time i see a gymnastics event during the olympics, i can't help but exclaim OLYMPIIIIIIIICS.

have i mentioned how much i love the olympics?

it's nice because finals are just around the corner and the olympics have these magical powers to put a fire under my behind and make me super motivated. 

Sarah and i have been working super hard in the gym (not that we haven't before...but we are just that much more motivated to go!)

I am motivated to work super hard in my classes.

did i mention i'm skating again?

yup.

a lot. 

and by a lot i mean one or two times a week...at most. 

but, that's more than i was doing just last month! (which was zero times a week) 

my Olympic dream is still strong.

i forgot how strong it really was until i watched the opening ceremonies last week.

it was just hidden for a while under school, work, life, etc.

so, Sochi Winter Olympics 2014?

that would be fun....

USA! USA! USA!

May the odds be ever in our favor.

wait . . .

quotes

I love quotes.

And, these in particular have been a tremendous help to me lately.

So, here they are:
 

"Delight in the life you have" 

-Kristen M. Oaks
 

"If your life is terrible, it is because you are terrible. Everything is a blessing! It all depends on how you look at it."

"Be happy today. Be happy now. Fake it until you believe it."

"Let not your heart be troubled."

"Get your prayer on."

-Alex Boye

"Don't give up on the Lord. Work towards the goal of communicating with your father in heaven daily. Cherish that relationship! That relationship is necessary in order to weather the storms. 'Seek me diligently and ye shall find thee.'"

"Faith and doubt cannot coexist."

-L. Tom Perry

"Life is 10% what happens to me and 90% of how I react to it."

-John Maxwell
 

 “Never assume that you can make it alone. You need the help of the Lord. Never hesitate to get on your knees in some private place and speak with Him.”

-Gordon B. Hinckley

"When everything seems to be going against you, just remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it."
-Henry Ford

"Our greatest glory consists not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall"

-Confucius

And, my absolute favorites:

"Tough times do not last. Tough people do."

-Gregory Peck

"Don't be too hard on yourself. There are plenty of people willing to do that for you. Love yourself and be proud of everything that you do. Even mistakes mean you're trying."
-Susan Gale

 "The Savior's Atonement lifts from us not only the burden of our sins but also the burden of our disappointments and sorrows, our heartaches and our despair. I promise you He is not going to turn His back on us now. When He says to the poor in spirit "come follow me," He means He knows the way out and He knows the way up. He knows it because He has walked it. He knows the way because He is the way."

-Jeffrey R. Holland

This too shall pass.
And I will come out stronger and victorious.

I will get through this.

The sun is shining and the sky is blue.

Come what may, and love it. 

:)

Happy Thursday

Pioneer Day

So, I find it odd that July 24th is a holiday here in Utah.

But, I'm not complaining.

I had both school AND work off.

It was definitely needed.

Sarah and I totally vegged. I slept in, watched a movie, did some DIY home remedies, and painted my nails.

Oh, and I went with Des to the baseball field batting cages.

I have not hit a baseball in YEARS. I'm talking at LEAST 10 years, so I was pretty rusty.

But it was so much fun.

Not going to lie, my arms are completely dead today and I have a pretty sweet blister on my left thumb.

 After an ice cream run for some graham canyon, we traveled on the scooter up to the base of the Y to watch the fireworks throughout Utah Valley. We even got to see some lightning. 

Utah residents don't hold back when it comes to celebrating Pioneer Day...

So, thank you pioneers for trekking across the plains.
Thank you Utah for the holiday and some much needed rest.

And, thank you Des for teaching me how to properly swing a bat all over again.

And for your patience.
And for not laughing...

...too much.

I'll stick with skating, thank you very much.

Happy Pioneer Day :)

indy's fun week

I really need to learn how to update this more often so I don't have a forever long post.

Oh well.

Sunday, the 15th - Preston and Corey (boys from my home ward) came over to my apartment and we had a nice chat and caught up and gave me a blessing. Bless their sweet hearts. Before they left, we had made plans to go to Preston's apartment for dinner later that week.

Monday, the 16th - We had FHE at the Schwarz's house that night. I haven't been able to eat too much without feeling like throwing up after for the last few weeks, but I tried to eat as much as I could....it was just so yummy! Lemon chicken, rolls, veggies, pie for dessert. My goodness.

Tuesday, the 17th - I love my LTS classes this session. I didn't know this was possible...but, the kids just keep getting cuter and cuter. Holy cow, they are so precious! And they try so hard. Thank goodness. ;) That evening, I went out with Desmond to go to the store for his roommate on his scooter and we drove around Provo for a bit just to talk. I love the scooter and that boy.

Wednesday, the 18th - Dinner at Preston's! Corey picked me up and headed over. Preston made this delicious Italian dish that was soooo dang yummy. After eating, we talked with his roommates and just laughed. I don't even remember the last time I laughed so hard and so much.

Thursday, the 19th - So, after work, my car wouldn't start. That was lame. It took me an hour and some help from my boss's husband (thank you!) before it finally started. Apparently it's the starter motor...whatever that means. 

That night, it was The Dark Knight Rises premiere! Des and I rode his scooter over to the Wynnsong to meet up with Ali, her roommates, and Danny. I brought my laptop to work on a paper while we waited in line (we got there 2 hours early) but ended up walking around the Riverwoods with Des haha. The movie was absolutely amazing! My mind was blown so many times. I laughed, I cried, I got frustrated, I cheered. It was so so so great. After Des dropped me off back home around 3:30am (the movie is LONG) I stayed up with Sarah and pulled an all-nighter - working on my paper, reading for a reading quiz, and studying for my upcoming anatomy exam. The last time I pulled an all-nighter was my Freshman year and I vowed never to do it again...and now I remember why. When I got home, Sarah told me the news about Aurora, Colorado. That is so scary and extremely horrific. That could have happened anywhere...I definitely counted my blessings and continue to pray for all the victims and their families. What a tragedy...

Friday, the 20th - I had lunch with my Aunt Claudia who I haven't seen in FOREVER at Brick Over and we discussed everything from classes to boys to life lessons, etc. She is taking classes this Summer at BYU after being away for 40 years. I don't know how she does it...i don't think i could ever do that! Came home and studied more for my Anatomy exam and then headed over to Sarah's house around 5:30 for dinner before we headed up to SLC for the MoTab Pioneer Day concert! It was absolutely fabulous. Katherine Jenkins was the featured performer and she was breathtaking. Her voice - my goodness. And, the songs were beautiful! So, I guess she was on Dancing with the Stars this last season and was the runner up and after singing one of her songs, she had her dance partner Mark Ballas came out and they did a dance while the orchestra played! AHHH IT WAS SO GOOD. I love Mark Ballas. I may or may not have freaked out when she told him to come out...

Anyways, it was a lovely show and I am so thankful that the Meyers thought to invite me along :)

Got back from SLC and hung out with Des again. We took the scooter around Provo again and went to this incredible park over by Walmart and just walked around and learned how to drive the scooter in the empty parking lot. I'll leave the driving to him, thank you very much. We got back to my apartment parking lot and just talked and talked some more. At around 2am, I began to feel delirious from the lack of sleep over the last few days and he gave me a piggy back ride up the stairs. He is seriously the best friend I could ever ask for. For real.

I have been going through such a different, difficult time these last few weeks and I feel like I was finally able to begin breathing again this week. 

Also, my flight home has officially been booked.

3 weeks until i'm home.

breathe.

i can do this.

Happy Saturday :)

In Provo, we celebrate independence day all week long

My fourth of July week consisted of:

-Sunday, the 1st: going to a patriotic fireside with Ben and Sarah. It was so good! SO many wonderful speakers and a military band played. Sarah and I even got a picture with Bonnie Losee...apparently she is the owner of Bon Losee jewelers! She was Ms. Senior Utah and had jewels EVERYWHERE. Her wedding ring was MASSIVE.

Please note how she held my hand instead of putting her arm around me to show off her ginormous ring :P

She was simply fabulous.

-Tuesday, the 3rd: painting festive nails with Sarah and Ben

Sarah did Ben's nail (left)

Ben did Sarah's nails (middle)

And Sarah did mine. (right)

I enjoy being pampered.

-After our nails dried, we walked along University Av. from 940 N to Center St. It was nuts outside. People had camped out for a parade. Yes, a parade. Utah is weird. But I love it. There were street performers, henna artists, and teenagers EVERYWHERE. Instead of drinking beer (which I definitely smelled in some areas), kids were holding their Red Bull and Monsters. Way to rebel, kids! Come teach Southern California your ways ;)

While we (sarah, ben, and i) were out, I met up with my friend Desmond from freshman year at the 7-11 around 11:30pm. We ended up staying out just talking in my front lawn until 3:30am! I don't know how we did it because I was so tired before we went out. But, it was so fun to catch up with an old friend :)

-Fourth of July - Amuuuuurica. We watched the parade from our front lawn. So prime. It was cute and fun but I still didn't understand why people camped out for it. Hmmm...

 I love the Meyers girls :)

One of the "floats" for the parade.

That night, Ali and I went to Stadium of Fire with Scotty McCreery and the Beach Boys! AHH SO GOOD. You better believe we were up and dancing. 

 Some pre show shaved ice. The BEST.

Beach Boys!

Mike Love, 0.5 seconds before he hive fived me and Ali!

-Thursday, the 5th: It rained. Mind you, it was BLAZING HOT on the fourth. I know it was from all the prayers for rain to put out the fires...we got rained out at Institute which was a BBQ and water games. We got our water all right! :P

-Friday, the 6th: Ali, Colton, Danny, Cameron, and I went to the Rooftop Concert series (because it was free...) and left after 20 minutes. I can only take so much Provo rap...which is none. 

"i throw up gaaaaaangster signs...but i don't know what they meeeeeean"

After leaving, we headed over to see the new Spiderman movie and found out Heather was in Provo! YAYAYAY. Picked her up and absolutely LOVED the movie. Movie got out a little after midnight and I went back to Alpine to see Desmond and we (me and Des and Heather) went to Rock Canyon to talk and catch up. (Heather was my neighbor freshman year so she knows Des, too). There was an interesting turn of events that night and ended up staying out talking with Des until 4:30am. Whew. Twice in one week? I was exhausted.

-Saturday, the 7th: Sarah and I went to a reception for a girl in our ward. She looked absolutely beautiful!

Congrats, Ray!

-Sunday, the 8th: I invited myself over to the Walker's house for dinner (our 1st counselor in the Bishopric) and enjoyed some ribs, corn, homemade biscuits, and the fudgiest brownies I have ever tasted with Sarah, Ethan, and Joel. We were in great company, had wonderful conversations, and had delicious food. I am so spoiled.

And, that is my independence day week.

God Bless America.

18 months

Can we just take a few moments to realize that this handsome fellow comes home in just 6 months?

Why yes. Yes we can.

I'm not going to lie, the past year and a half have both flown by and dragged slowly.

But, one of my most favorite people will fly from Brazil and into the states for Christmas.

Yup.

Christmas day

Can you say "Merry Christmas Harris family" any better than that?! 

 I didn't think so.

Happy 18 months, Elder Harris! Only 6 more to go :)

What time is it? Summertime!

I have officially made it through my first week of my first summer semester.

Here’s my summer schedule:

Monday – Geography 130: 9-10:50

Tuesday – Anatomy lab: 8-9:50

                Anatomy lecture: 2-3:50

And repeat.

I am already loving my classes (I know I know, it’s only the first week) but the teaching styles are clicking with me which makes me so excited! I have had more than enough freshman boys asking me if this was my first semester at BYU too and I can’t help but feel a little bit of pleasure at watching their faces as I tell them I am a junior. Silly boys.
Went to Rock Canyon on Saturday for a Tri Ward slip n’ slide/BBQ with Ali and Ethan – it is activities like these that make it start to officially feel like summer!

Summer is going to be great, I can feel it. I love my classes, I get the opportunity to bond more with Sarah and Ethan, it’s getting warmer which means WATER ACTIVITIES, annnnnnnnd……I am going to Stadium of Fire!! 

Volunteering for an hour is a wonderful thing…especially when I get a stadium of fire ticket out of it. I am so excited to see the Beach Boys and Scotty McCreery! 

Happy Summer!

California Lovin'

So, China picked me up and surprised my second daddy aka: her daddy at work. I have not seen him in FOREVER so it was nice to hug him and quickly catch up :) China took me to breakfast at Julian’s – amazing Mexican food!! We babysat her nieces and nephew – whom I also have not seen in at least 2 years. They are so dang cute and darling, it kills me! My trip to California was tough and tiring and I ended up falling asleep while the kiddos and China played Just Dance :P China drove me to Brea where I met up with my daddy!! Yay! We stopped at my grandparents for a very brief visit because dad had to get back to work but it was nice to see them regardless. Dad had to finish up a few things at the office then we headed home where I finally got to see my mama and little brother! We went to dinner at Corky’s and stopped at the store to get some ice cream, since Deanna had a craving ;) Came home and dad and I had a heart to heart before diving into our ice cream. We are all reunited again and it couldn’t feel any better than this.

Saturday

Mom and I went shopping while they boys drove us around :) I have missed shopping with my sweet mama! Mom had work at 3 so we cut our shopping trip short and took her to work so dad and I could get all the ingredients for dinner and dessert that night – Enchiladas and baked s’mores! I was so surprised by how many enchiladas were made – a whole pan was not even touched! Granted there were 15 in the first pan ;) Mom stayed up late with me to make the baked s’mores and we got to talk and catch up – always one of my favorite things to do with her :)

Sunday

Mom and I went horseback riding! I have not been out riding with my mom since my horse died of old age a few years ago so it’s safe to say I was a little nervous. The new horse we have, Cali, is an ex race horse so I was definitely nervous to get on her for fear she’d take off on me! But, when we took the horses out and groomed them before saddling them, I remembered how simply therapeutic it is to groom a horse. Cali and I got to know each other a bit before I saddled her up and went out. Mom and I took this opportunity to really talk about anything and everything while enjoying each other’s company and doing something we both love – riding horses! And, luckily it was a smooth and easy ride :)

Mama had work that evening but the boys and I watched Joyful Noise – if you haven’t already, go watch it! It’s actually really good!

Monday 

I fly back to Provo today :( Didn’t get on my first flight so I got bumped to a later flight. The parentals and I took this opportunity to go to the beach – one of my all-time favorite places. We stopped to eat at our favorite little taco shack in Surfside and then lounged on the beach, taking pictures and soaking up as much salt water into my skin as I could. It was windy and cold but the ocean has such a calming effect on me, I could have fallen asleep on the sand. I ended up taking a nap in the car and then we headed back to the airport – a whole 10 minutes away. This goodbye wasn’t tearful – I’d be seeing them in 8 weeks :)

 California sunset view from the plane :)

  This weekend has been amazing and I feel rejuvenated and ready to start this Summer semester. 

Bring it on Summer.

I’m ready.

And thus ends Spring semester, 2012

It’s catch up time…again. Let’s do this:

-June 8^th – Sarah, Elise, and I volunteered from 12-5pm at the Provo Marriott Hotel for the Utah Valley Marathon. Boy, was that fun! It was so fast paced, I got to be stationed with Elise, and I met a lot of interesting people. Victor was also volunteering and he was stationed with Sarah so it worked out perfectly!

                That evening, Elise and I had a double date scheduled with Victor and Jon. We made yummy shakes, made our own kites, attempted to fly those kites, and went star gazing at Vivian Park. It was so fun! :)

-June 9^th – The stake paid for us to go to the Waterpark! We got free admission, free tubes, AND they served us breakfast. Perfection. We caught up with Victor, Jon, and Courtney and spent the day with them. Elise and I laid out some, conquered her fear of wave pools, and went on some amazing slides. The weather was perfect (chilly at times) and it really didn’t get crowded until we were leaving. That night, the roommates and I went onto campus to practice our musical number for Sacrament meeting the next day. Melissa, Sarah, and I sang while Elise accompanied us on the piano to “I Know That My Redeemer Lives” – beautiful song!!

-June 11^th – for our last FHE, our apartment made dinner and dessert. Two crockpots of Ranch Chicken, rice, fruit, pumpkin cookies, and brownies alamode were served. I think we did a pretty dang good job ;) We played a hilarious game and then bid our family farewell.

-June 12^th – Elise and I were actually productive! We woke up early and went to the gym with Sarah, came back to shower and get ready for the day, I went to teach a private lesson, and when I got back, Lisey and I went to the library and ACTUALLY studied! JK, I fell asleep for the first hour, Elise fell asleep the second hour.

But, I feel like we really got a lot accomplished! That night, Sarah, Elise, and I made salmon for dinner together and then grabbed Melissa to take hilarious pictures on my laptop as roommates. It was a great night together and we were all wondering why we didn’t do this more often throughout the semester. I’m sure going to miss this group :(

-June 13^th & 14^th – FINALS. Oh jeez. The 13^th consisted of waking up early to study and then going to a day camp at the rink that I was partly in charge of. It was a great time, but it was just 4 hours out of my day that could have been spent studying or taking another final. Oh well..came home and took my ExSc exam and then my scheduled first aid final at 5pm. The 14^th, I took Stats in the afternoon and officially ended Spring semester! And what better way to celebrate than with a trip home to California!! :) I headed to the airport with Elise and Ethan, but unfortunately, I was on standby and didn’t get on that flight and there wasn’t another one until the next morning at 6am. So much for the tearful goodbye Elise and I shared at the airport ;)

 Being the amazing person he is, Ethan picked me up and took me to dinner at The Pie (side note: AMAZING PIZZA) and headed home. He put a movie on when we got back, but I quickly fell asleep. Poor kid. Woke up at 2am and chatted/got ready with my roommates before Sarah and I had to leave at 4am to the airport. (Sarah was going to Seattle for the weekend). Another tearful goodbye to Lisey and a trip back to Salt Lake later, I got on my 6:30am flight!! Yay! I’m currently sitting at the Long Beach airport waiting for China to come pick me up! Best friend ever = me calling her at 5:30am her time and asking if she could pick me up and her saying yes before I could finish my question. She did it with no questions asked, no complaining about how early it was, nothing. She’s the best and I cannot wait to see her and my family and spend some time in California! :)