Ashleigh Bartlett Bacon's Bits

Don't mind us. We're just "doing homework"

2012-01-23T22:39:00.000-07:00

And here is the other video! :D if you want to laugh at complete fruit-loops, watch this... Or maybe it is just funny to us because we are crazy!

You are my sunshine

2012-01-23T22:04:00.000-07:00

We Love to sing!!! This is me and my SWEETEST cousin Brianna Jean Pettit singing "You Are My Sunshine" I love that I can have so much fun with Miss Brianna no matter where we are, and what we are doing. At this moment we were having a "homework party" he he he :D we didn't get one bit of homework done in the five hours we were together, but.... we got some awesome videos!!! This is one of them!!! ENJOY!

Continue in Patience

2011-08-20T11:52:00.000-06:00

untitled

2011-08-08T23:31:00.002-06:00

Some days this is how I feel. I feel like I am putting on a fake face. People see the smile, but inside I am really feeling sad and distressed. I have been feeling a lot like this lately. I feel lost. I feel like I don't know what I am supposed to do with my life. I have a plan of what I am going to do, but don't necessarily feel like that is what I am supposed to do. The problem is I don't know what I am supposed to be doing.

I smile because that is what people know me as. I wish I could just let people know how I was feeling. I wish people would understand. I wish people knew what I was going through but the truth is, they don't. No one knows how I feel, no one understands my situation. I need to accept that and learn how to make it through my life and through the trials I am going through.

St. George Trip

2011-06-07T19:13:00.004-06:00

Day 30: A Photograph of Yourself Today and 3 Good Things That Have Happened in the Past

2011-05-19T11:33:00.000-06:00

Here I am! This is a definite Ashleigh Face!!!

3 Good Things that Have Happened in the Past:

Wait! only 3? Hmmm. That is a hard one.

1. Being born into this magnificent family! Both Immediate and Extended.

2. Serving a Mission in New York. (Planning on going back out!)

3. Meeting all the wonderful people I call friends! (sorry, that is a really broad one)

Finishing my 30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-05-19T11:08:00.000-06:00

So, I am such a slacker and decided I would finish the last 3 posts of my 30 day blog challenge. Better to finish than to quit right?

Day 28: Your Favorite Music

My favorite music is really random. I'll let you know that now. It depends on my day what type of music I am listening to.

-I like Acoustic music because it is easy to listen to (Kalai)

- I like music that has lyrics that touch my soul or have meaning that relates to me

(Firework by Katy Perry)

- I like Ingrid Michaelson and Missy Higgins style of music whatever that is

- I might be weird, but I listen to church music on days other than Sunday

(Hilary Weeks, Dallyn Bayles)

- I love Musical Theater!

-I also love opera or classical on some days

My array of music is very random, but so am I, I guess. What can I do about it. I guess I am just well rounded when it comes to music. Ha ha!

Day 29: Something You Could Never Get Tired of Doing

I Love riding my Bike!!!! That's it. I could never get tired of riding my bike. Well, unless I was riding it 500 miles or something. Then I might get tired. Other than that, I love it and will ride my bike my whole life!

Glee Cast - Get It Right

2011-03-17T09:54:00.002-06:00

I just really love this song and the lyrics. It is exactly how I am feeling from having to come home from my mission early. I know that I came home for medical reasons, but sometimes I feel like I have made a mistake. I often wonder what would have happened if I had stayed out in New York. I know I can't go back and change what has happened, and the choices that I have made. But I do know that I have learned a lot from the choices I have made, as I always do. I just want to know how I can fix everything that has gone wrong.

Glee - Get It Right Lyrics

2011-03-17T09:53:00.001-06:00

Glee - Get It Right

What have I done?
I wish I could run,
Away from this ship going under
Just trying to help
Hurt everyone else
Now I feel the weight of the world is on my shoulders

What can you do when your good isn't good enough
And all that you touch tumbles down?
Cause my best intentions
Keep making a mess of things,
I just wanna fix it somehow
But how many times will it take?
Oh, how many times will it take for me to get it right, to get it right?

Can I start again, with my fate shaken?
Cause I can't go back and undo this
I just have to stay and face mistakes,
But if I get stronger and wiser, I'll get through this.

What can you do when you're good isn't good enough?
And all that you touch tumbles down?
Cause my best intentions keep making a mess of things,
I just wanna fix it somehow
But how many times will it take?
Oh, how many times will it take for me to get it right?

So I throw up my fists, throw a punch in the air,
And accept the truth that sometimes life isn't fair!
Yeah, I'll send down a wish and I'll send up a prayer
And then finally someone will see how much I care

What can you do when you're good isn't good enough?
And all that you touch tumbles down?
Cause my best intentions keep making a mess of things,
I just wanna fix it somehow
But how many times will it take?
Oh, how many times will it take for me to get it right?"

Day 27: A picture of you last year and now, and how you have changed since then

2011-02-23T21:40:00.008-07:00

Well, I can't find any pictures of me by myself, and so I decided to do this one. My lipgloss is poppin'!

Lipgloss still poppin'!

Well, I am still my goofy self, but I have learned so much in this past year. So much has happened and I can't believe that time has gone by so fast! I definitely feel like a different person!

Slacker!!!!

2011-02-23T20:55:00.001-07:00

So, I am such a slacker and haven't been doing so well on the 30 day blog challenge. I took a little vacation from blogging. But I am back!!! SORRY!!! I will continue starting today :D

Day 26: A photo of somewhere you've been

2011-02-18T19:46:00.004-07:00

The Black River in New York!

Day 25: What's in your purse?

2011-02-17T19:42:00.000-07:00

*My wallet

*Money (sometimes)

*Chapstick

*Lip-gloss

*Gum

*Mints

*Phone

*Ipod

*Usually some trash

*Candy sometimes

Day 24: A photo of something that means a lot to you

2011-02-16T19:31:00.004-07:00

There are so many things that mean a lot to me,

I would have to do a whole book just to show

everything that means a lot to me.

Here is one thing in particular.

RAINBOWS

I love rainbows! I love the symbolism in rainbows.

Just think about it.

Whenever there is a storm, a rainbow comes after.

I just love that.

It shows that whenever we are struggling and having a

"Storm in Life"

There will always be a rainbow at the end.

ALWAYS!!!

Maybe it's not necessarily the rainbow that means a lot,

but what I learn from different things at different times of life.

Day 23: 15 facts about me

2011-02-15T23:39:00.003-07:00

I love to sing!!! Love Love Love to sing!!
I am going to be a Freakin' Awesome Elementary Teacher!!!(well, if I can pass all my classes that is :)
I LOVE Suga' SUGARRRRRRRRRRRRRR! oh yeah
I have my verra own language. Yesch I dooo!
I love to laugh and make others laugh!
I like to pretend I can be a gangsta'. I'm not very good at it. That's why I pretend
I love talking in a British accent. Only because others will respond in one unintentionally.
I find joy in riding my bike... well, when I had one. Mine got stolen! If you have it, please return it....
The majority of my friends are either 30+ years older than me, or 15 years younger than me.
I try to be creative, it doesn't always work.
I love to sleep and have dreams that are like movies! I love when I don't want to wake up because I have to finish my dream :D
I am definitely a procrastinator! Definitely!!!
I have extremely long toes. I have one toe I call my E.T. toe!
I wrinkle my nose when I laugh or smile.
My hair grows extremely fast! Only because I want it to stop growing!

Day 22: A letter to someone who has hurt you recently

2011-02-14T23:34:00.000-07:00

I have nothing to say to this. Maybe I will another day.

Day 21: A photo of something that makes you happy

2011-02-13T13:45:00.003-07:00

Well, there are a lot of things that make me happy. This photo alone makes me REALLY HAPPY! I can't help but laugh at all of our faces. I also can't help but laugh at how freakin' high I can jump! AND NO! I didn't jump off the fireplace. Ask anyone that was there :) I also love the mere fact that I am the only one in the air and the est of them are ready to jump, they just weren't early enough. LOL!!!

Mission Experience Talk

2011-02-13T13:27:00.002-07:00

So, I gave a talk in church today and it went really well! I can't believe I'm actually saying this, but I love speaking in church now! Yeah! So, if any of you want to read it, here it is. It is kinda long, but I like it! I hope you think it is good!

Day 20: The meaning behind your blog name

2011-02-12T14:41:00.004-07:00

Well, so there is a lady in my ward named Jenn Weber. She would always call me Ashleigh Bartlett Bacon like in the movie "While You Were Sleeping" so, I decided to call my blog Ashleigh Barlett Bacon's Bits because it is my bits of stuff! There you go. Pretty simple :)

Day 19: Another picture of yourself

2011-02-11T14:38:00.001-07:00

Day 18: Something you crave a lot

2011-02-10T21:22:00.003-07:00

These are the most delicious thing in the WHOLE WIDE WORLD!!! MMMMM!!! You should try one some time! I definitely crave these a lot. I make one of these with a big glass of milk and I am set!

Day 17: A photo of you and your family

2011-02-09T10:43:00.000-07:00

Does this describe my family well enough?

They always say a picture says 1000 words!

Day 16: Your celebrity crush

2011-02-08T10:30:00.002-07:00

Lee Pace

Enough Said!

Day 15: Something you don't leave the house without

2011-02-07T22:22:00.004-07:00

This was an easy one.

I definitely don't EVER leave the house without my awesome pink cell phone :)

I feel naked without it! I don't know what it is?

Even if I don't use it at all, I have to have it in my pocket or else I freak out!

Day 14: A TV show you are currently addicted to

2011-02-06T19:52:00.004-07:00

This is the BEST SHOW EVER!!! I didn't even have to think about the topic for today because Pretty Little Liars is my all time favorite show right now. Thank goodness for DVR! I never have to miss an episode of this awesome show. Go here to find out more about the show.

Day 13: Your favorite musician and why

2011-02-05T19:42:00.003-07:00

Hmmmm... That's a hard one! I love a lot of people! I think right now my favorite is Sarah Bareilles, or Brooke White, or... THERE ARE SO MANY GOOD ONES!!! I Can't pick just one, so I will pick just two, even though there are so many others I would like to add to my list of favorites! Anyways, Why do I love these two artists? I just love their voices and their music. I love how their songs always speak to my soul. I also love the uniqueness of their voices! I wish I could sing like them :) They are both just AMAZING and I think they will always be favorites of mine!

Day 12: A photo of the town you live in

2011-02-04T22:15:00.004-07:00

Beautiful Mt. Timpanogas in good old Orem, UT. I love the Mountains! When I lived in New York, the mountains are definitely what I missed the most about Utah!

Lil smash and Lil ice ice baby rap

2011-02-03T22:42:00.000-07:00

Day 11: what's in your makeup bag?

2011-02-03T17:30:00.003-07:00

In my make up bag I have:

1) Brownish Black eyeliner

2) Brownish Black Mascara

3) Powder Foundation

4) Rosey Blush

5) And some simple colors of eyeshadow

6) I also have an Eyelash Curler

7) Smackers Lipgloss & Chapstick

Usually this doesn't all stay in my make up bag though :)

Day 10: A photo of your favorite place to eat

2011-02-03T09:59:00.003-07:00

Day 9: A photo of something you last purchased

2011-02-02T21:52:00.003-07:00

Today I randomly had the craving for cheddar cheese. So I bought a little slice of Tillamook Cheddar Cheese. It was only 33 cents! They definitely have the BEST cheese around!!! It hit the spot for sure! MMMMM!!!

Day 8: A song to match your mood

2011-02-01T21:50:00.001-07:00

So, I just love this song! I think it really describes how I feel right now. You may not understand why, but I do :)

Day 7: My Dream Wedding

2011-01-31T21:41:00.010-07:00

So, First I would want to marry the best man in the world for me! That will definitely be my eternal companion. If I could choose anywhere to get married my first choice would be the New Zealand Temple!!! But, . . . since that is definitely out of the budget, I will just have to choose one here in Utah. I don't know which one yet.

I Love the Salt Lake Temple! All temples are BEAUTIFUL though, so the only thing that matters is that I am sealed to my eternal companion for FOREVER!

Okay, for the dress. I want a simple dress that is modest, but makes me feel like a princess.

The Ring!

The Reception will be outdoors.

My cake will be AMAZING! But, I can't find a picture of my dream cake because it hasn't been made yet :)

You'll just have to wait until I get married to see it!

I'll plan the rest of my wedding when it comes :)

Day 6: A Photo of and Animal You'd Love to Keep as a Pet

2011-01-30T18:41:00.002-07:00

Isn't He just SOOO Cute!!!

Day 5: A Photo of yourself 2 Years Ago

2011-01-28T23:50:00.003-07:00

So Here is my picture of me 2 years ago! Aren't I so cute :) jk. Anyways, I really REALLY MISS my short hair! Like A LOT!!! I can't wait to chop all of my hair off again!

Day 4: Your Favorite Photograph of Your Best Friend

2011-01-28T11:06:00.026-07:00

So, I have two bestest friends EVER!!! I can't just pick one!

My first BESTEST FRIEND IN THE WHOLE WIDE WORLD IS Brianna Jean Pettit! She has been here for me my whole entire life, literally! We were born 6 days apart and have always loved eachother :) We definitely have a special relationship that not everyone has! I am so lucky to have Brianna in my life! I don't know what I would do without her. Brianna is someone that I can do ANYTHING with! Including being a dork! I definitely admire you my sweet cousin Brianna!

Can you tell that we love eachother verra VERRA MUSCH!!! I WUV YOU BRI-NANNA!

Brianna, Connie, and Me. My Two BESTEST FRIENDS!!!

Now Constance Jensen! She is my other Bestest Friend EVER! Or should I say FRISTER :) (Friend/Sister) I have known Connie for 3 years now, but it feels like we have known eachother for so much longer! I met Connie when I started taking voice lessons! Connie is the bestest voice teacher in the whole wide universe!!! And that is not an exaggeration! And not only is the the bestest voice teacher in the whole wide universe, but she is one of the BESTEST FRISTERS ANYONE could EVER ask for!!!!! We have so much fun together! We think alike; I think we might have the same brain :) Connie has helped me through so much and has helped me become the person I am today! Sanks for everysing you have done for me!!! I just wuv you Connie!!! p.s. I do know how to spell, We just have our own language :)

Day 3: Your Idea of the Perfect First Date

2011-01-27T22:28:00.002-07:00

Hmmm... I might have to think about this one really hard! I haven't been on a date in years. Lol, that makes me sound old!

My perfect first date would be with someone special. Someone who respects me and wants the best for me. I'm sure my perfect first date will be with my Eternal Companion... whoever that is... It will be the date that will start Eternity. This date will be simple. I don't know what we would do, but it would be fun. We would do something where we could both be ourselves. I would want the date to be something I would remember for the rest of my life! This date could be unexpected, and be an amazing adventure! Whatever we do, it will be great!!! :)

Day 2: A photo of something you ate today

2011-01-26T23:15:00.006-07:00

MMMMMMM...... Garlic Cheese Bread!!! So bad for you, but so good! That is all I have to say about this :)

Day 1: A photo of yourself and a description of how your day was

2011-01-25T21:56:00.004-07:00

Well, here is a photo of myself. It is one of my favorites!!! I don't quite know why... I just like it :) Anyways, I guess my day was a fairly normal day. I woke up, went to work, came home, did some homework, took a nap, did more homework, and that is about it. Not too exciting, but nothing horrible happened today I guess :) That is all.....

30 Day Blog Challenge

2011-01-25T21:44:00.001-07:00

Well, I know why they call this a challenge! It's because I am so bad at blogging that this is definitely going to be a challenge for me! But maybe this will give me the motivation to blog everyday, and eventually get me into the habit of it. Well, I think this is going to be pretty exciting. I just hope I don't miss a day :)

So here is the Challenge:

Day 1 a photo of yourself and a description of how your day was
Day 2 a photo of something you ate today
Day 3 your idea of the perfect first date
Day 4 your favorite photograph of your best friend
Day 5 a photo of yourself two years ago
Day 6 a photo of an animal you'd love to keep as a pet
Day 7 your dream wedding
Day 8 a song to match your mood
Day 9 a photo of something you last purchased
Day 10 a photo of your favorite place to eat
Day 11 what's in your makeup bag?
Day 12 a photograph of the town you live in
Day 13 your favorite musician and why?
Day 14 a TV show you're currently addicted to
Day 15 something you don't leave the house without
Day 16 you celebrity crush
Day 17 a photo of you and your family
Day 18 something you crave a lot
Day 19 another picture of yourself
Day 20 the meaning behind your blog name
Day 21 a phot of something that makes you happy
Day 22 a letter to someone who has hurt you recently
Day 23 15 facts about you
Day 24 a photo of something that means a lot to you
Day 25 what's in your purse?
Day 26 a photo of somewhere you've been too
Day 27 a picture of you last year and now and how have you changed since then?
Day 28 your favorite music
Day 29 something that you could never get tired of doing
Day 30 a photograph of yourself today + three good things that have happened in the past

Goals as a teacher

2011-01-12T17:52:00.001-07:00

"I am definitely an interesting character and have many unique qualities about me. I love singing and any form of music. Music is a huge part of my life. I sing a lot. I may not have an amazing voice, but I sing to express not to impress. I love nature. It amazes me to just look around and see how amazing our surroundings are. During my free time, I try to take it all in. I also enjoy dancing with blasting music in depths of my bedroom while no one is watching. I love being me because I know I'm the only one that can be me.

I remember always getting the best teachers in elementary school. I loved my teachers and looked up to them. They were my heroes and I wanted to be just like them. I didn't realize that I wanted to be a teacher until my senior year of high school. I wanted to be a math teacher. But then I realized that teaching math just wasn't for me. I wanted to be a teacher, but I also wanted to change lives. I wanted to use my strengths to help others. That's when I decided to be an elementary teacher. I had teachers that changed my life and I knew I could do the same for others. I love children and have loved them my whole life. I love watching them learn and grow and discover new things.

My goal as a teacher is to create an environment for learning and discovering. An environment where students will feel safe expressing themselves. I want students to love learning. I want them to have the same elementary experience I had. Elementary school was the best and maybe that's why I am gravitating back towards it. I am excited to discover more about me as I prepare to become a teacher."

Better Than I

2010-12-31T23:30:00.002-07:00

I was listening to this song today and had a realization of how much this song is exactly what I am going through. I have choices to make everyday of my life and sometimes I do what I want instead of asking my Heavenly Father what He would have me do. I try to tell Him how to help me. I know so little. He knows everything. He knows better than I. He knows exactly how to help me.

I feel confused. Somedays I feel like I have made the wrong choice. What would have happened if I would have just stuck it out a little longer. Somedays I feel like a failure. I feel like I gave up and let my Heavenly Father down. I am learning a lot! It is amazing how every experience I have had has helped me grow and learn things I never would have learned if I wouldn't have had those experiences. I want to put myself into my Heavenly Fathers hands. I want Him to mold me and shape me into what He would have me be. This will take alot of effort on my part. I will need to make sure that whatever I do is the Lords will for me. I owe Him bigtime for messing up big time! I am so grateful we get second chances!

Listen To the song here:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MwNibdCN8sQ&playnext=1&list=PL40787DFA5078502A&index=43

"I thought I did what's right
I thought I had the answer
I thought I chose the surest road
But that road brought me here
So I put up a fight
And told You how to help me
And just when I had given up
The truth is coming clear, for...
You know...Better Than I
You know...the way
I've let go...the need to know why
'Cause You know Better Than I

If this has been a test
I cannot see the reason
But maybe knowing, I don't know
Is part of getting thru
I try to do what's best
Find faith has made it easy
To see the best thing I can do
Is put my faith in You, for...
You know... Better Than I
You know... the way
I've let go...the need to know why
'Cause You know Better Than I

I saw one cloud, and thought it was the sky
I saw a bird and thought that I could follow
But it was You who tought them to fly
If I let You reach me...
Will You teach me? For...
You know...Better Than I
You know...the way
I've let go...the need to know why
I'll take what answers You supply
'Cause You know Better Than I"

Falling

2010-12-18T22:08:00.002-07:00

Don't you just hate those days where you just feel like everything is falling apart? I don't know what to do. I'm trying to stay strong through all of this, I'm trying to stay happy, I'm trying to stay positive, but I am at the end of my rope. Right now I just want to cry. I want to talk to someone, anyone and just cry it all out. I feel lost. I feel torn. I feel broken. I feel alone. How do can I feel so alone when there are people all around me. Meh... I don't even know what to say. My thoughts are all scattered. I'm sure this will pass. Maybe I just need to sleep it off.

Footprints in the Sand

2010-12-05T23:24:00.004-07:00

One night I dreamed I was walking along the beach with the Lord. Many scenes from my life flashed across the sky. In each scene I noticed footprints in the sand. Sometimes there were two sets of footprints, Other times there were one set of footprints.

This bothered me because I noticed that during the low periods of my life, when I was suffering from anguish, sorrow, or defeat I could see only one set of footprints

So I said to the Lord, "you promised me, that if I followed you, you would walk with me always.

But I have noticed that during the most trying periods of my life there have only been one set of footprints in the sand. Why, when I needed you most you have not been there for me?"

The Lord replied, "The time when you have seen only one set of footprints, is when I carried you."

I love this poem. It is always during the hardest times this poem means the most to me! It is at times like this when I am so grateful that the Lord can carry me. I wouldn't be able to make it walking on my own, or even with Him just by my side. I am glad He is willing to carry me! I don't know what I would do without the Lord. He is my best friend. He is what gives me hope to get out of bed and face each and everyday as a new beginning. I know that my Savior loves me. I want to do all that I can to show my love to Him. But I can only do that one step at a time.

"Be a first-rate version of yourself, not a second-rate version of someone else." ~Judy Garland

2010-05-11T20:48:00.006-06:00

I have been thinking about this quote a lot lately. I am the type of person that looks at others and wants to be them; not just like them, but to be them. Sometimes I don't like myself. I look at who I am and don't like it. I get jealous of other people and what they have, and who they are. I feel like the person I am can't do anything right. That is why I want to be someone else. I began thinking about how much I do compare myself to others. When I begin to feel discouraged with myself, it's usually because I am looking at what someone else has, that I don't.

But I am learning that I can't be someone else. The only person I can be is me. Each and every one of us have our own gifts and talents in life that God has blessed us with. We need to spend more time thanking Him for those gifts and talents than we do comparing what we don't have to those around us.

I have my own journey through this life to learn and grow. Life can be difficult, but I think of everything I have. I am a very blessed girl! I have been born into the Gospel. I have knowledge that people are longing for, even though they may not know it. I know my Heavenly Father loves me. This love is what keeps me going. I am a daughter of a King. When I remember who I am, life is so much easier. Well, if not easier, it has so much more purpose. I want to please my Father in Heaven. The only way I can do this is by being who He has made me to be. Me. I need to be true to who I am. A Daughter of a Heavenly King

New Mission Blog!!!!

2010-05-11T09:15:00.002-06:00

Here is my Mission Blog Address! This is where you can be updated on me, and also read my mission letters :D hope you enjoy!

http://sisterashleighsimmons.blogspot.com/

I just gotta let it all out!!!

2010-04-08T17:56:00.001-06:00

This is just how I feel right now and I need to get it all out. I know things will get better, but for right now I feel stuck. I am just really stressed out right now and I know everyone has these feelings sometime in their life. So just disregard this post. It means nothing. It is just me venting in writing.

I HATE this feeling! I can’t stand it. I hate being down and feel like nothing is possible for me. I am feeling like I don’t belong! I am feeling inadequate. I am feeling like a failure. I hate seeing my friends sad and feeling like I am the one that caused the sadness. I feel like everyone is ignoring me. I feel like no one cares that I have problems too. That I need help too. That I struggle too. I’m not perfect! Nope! Not me! Sorry…Why can’t I just be happy all the time. My life isn’t that horrible. My life could be so much worse. I don’t appreciate my life right now. Maybe I’m scared. Scared of leaving those I love and being forgotten. Maybe I’m jealous? I dunno. What am I jealous of? I already feel forgotten and I’m still here. Why am I even here? I feel like those that do notice me, and those I turn to, get annoyed by me. Why do I even turn to those people then? I feel like everyone is too busy for me. No time for me. I am tired of trying. I am tired of doing anything. I just want to give up. Life is too hard. Helping others is too hard also. I want to help others, but don’t feel like my help is going anywhere. My head hurts. I’m tired. I give up on everyone! I GIVE UP! (at least for today)

101 goals in 1001 Days

2009-12-01T09:19:00.002-07:00

I just thought I would let ya'll know what I am up to these days. (Lol, I like using the work ya'll.) anyway, pretty much my life is still work and school. I will get my Associates Degree in April and then.... wait for it... I will be going on a MISSION!!!!!!!! now don't get ahead of yourself by asking where because I haven't started my papers yet... but I will be soon, hopefully. Right now I am also working on 101 goals in 1001 days. Brianna, my cousin, introduced this to me. I have 101 preset goals to complete in 1001 days, or 2.75 years. It is actually quite fun so far, some of my goals will be a little bit challenging though, taking me out of my comfort zone. This will be good for me. I found this a good opportunity to do the things I have always wanted to do, get more organized, and most of all become a better person. I am looking forward to completing this challenge. I started this challenge on Monday November 16, 2009 and will finish 1001 days later on Monday, August 12, 2012. I have made a journal where I will keep track of my progress, but I may just write about some of them right here on this blog...(that is not a promise)

TTYL

My Talk; A Season For Angels

2009-12-01T09:08:00.002-07:00

I was asked to speak on the talk “A Season For Angels” by Elder Bateman. As I was reading this talk I couldn’t help but think of what a wonderful kickoff this is to this Christmas season. No black Friday or finding the best deals on un-needed things to start off. This was a great opportunity for me to study the true meaning of Christmas. Our Savior. Just preparing this talk helped me remember, because I think we tend to forget, the true meaning of Christmas. So, I am grateful for this opportunity to study and speak about this talk, even though I am scared out of my mind to be up here.

He starts by saying, At the beginning of each Christmas season, our thoughts turn to the birth of the Savior. For believers, Christ’s birth and death are the two greatest events in the history of the earth or, for that matter, eternity. It is almost an anomaly that in the untold years the universe ahs existed, its two greatest events occurred within a 33-year span in a vassal nation on a small planet the Lord calls His “footstool.”

Christmas carols are a special feature of the season. They bring feelings of joy to our hearts as they describe the events and significance of the birth of Jesus Christ. It is interesting to note that many Christmas hymns speak of angels. This is because the biblical record contains numerous accounts of heavenly beings speaking to mortals before and at the time of His birth. Not only is the story of the Savior’s birth replete with heavenly messengers, but heavenly beings were also present at significant events throughout his life.

(Holland) When the time for the Savior’s advent was at hand, an angel was sent to announce to Mary that she was to be the mother of the Son of God. Then a host of angels was commissioned to sing on the night the baby Jesus was born. Shortly thereafter an angel would announce to Joseph that the newborn baby was in danger and that this little family must flee to Egypt for safety. When it was safe to return, an angel conveyed that information to the family and the three returned to the land of their heritage. From the beginning down through the dispensations, God has used angels as His emissaries in conveying love and concern for His children. Time in this setting does not allow even a cursory examination for the scriptures or our own latter-day history, which are so filled with accounts of angels ministering to those on earth, but it is rich doctrine and rich history.

The birth of Jesus Christ was extraordinary in that it involved the condescension of both the Father and the Son. The Father condescended in sending His Son’ the Savior condescended in taking upon Himself a mortal body and offering Himself as a sacrifice for sin. Is it any wonder that angels were assigned to declare the Savior’s birth?

Moroni taught that angels play a special role in the early stages of a new dispensation. In Moroni 7:31-32 (Open Scriptures)

As I was reading this talk, I kept thinking about the talk by Elder Holland given in the October 2008 General Conference. I’m sure many of you remember this talk. This talk is called “The Ministry of Angels.” As we have seen throughout the scriptures for thousands of years, God has sent angels, in special times of need. He sent his divine messengers, to bless His children, to reassure them that heaven was always very close and that His help was always very near. They taught them the meaning of their sacrifice and the atoning role of the promised Redeemer who was to come. Elder Holland says, “I testify that angels are still sent to help us, even as they were sent to help Adam and Eve, to help the prophets, and indeed to help the Savior of the world Himself. Matthew records in his gospel that after Satan had tempted Christ in the wilderness “Angels came and ministered unto him.” Even the Son of God, a God Himself, had need for heavenly comfort during His sojourn in mortality.” I love that. That Even the son of God, a God Himself, had need for heavenly comfort during His sojourn in mortality.

Elder Holland goes on saying, “But when we speak of those who are instruments in the hand of God, we are reminded that not all angels are from the other side of the veil. Some of them we walk with and talk with-- here, now, every day. Some of them reside in our own neighborhoods. Some of them gave birth to us, and in my case, (his case), one of them consented to marry me. Indeed heaven never seems closer than when we see the love of God manifested in the kindness and devotion of people so good and so pure that angelic is the only word that comes to mind.” I have had many angels in my life. Angels that have done exactly what Moroni taught about the angels role. Declaring the word of Christ, Helping me have faith in Christ. Helping me understand and know my role as a daughter of God, and let me know that I can also be an angel to someone else. These angels in my life really do have the love of God, in kindness and devotion. They know their purpose.

Elder Bateman ends his talk by asking, “What is the lesson for us today as we enter a new Christmas season? Who will minister to those in need? Who are the angels that will prepare the way for His return? I have noticed that during the early stages of a dispensation, angelic ministers come from the other side of the veil, but as time elapses and the number of faithful members increases, more is expected of those in mortality. For example, when a new country is opened to the gospel, missionaries learn that many have been prepared in miraculous ways to receive the gospel, and miracles occur with some frequency to advance the work. Once a core of members is established, however, the Lord’s assistance changes as He provides opportunities for the members to become the miracle workers.” He provides opportunities for the members to become the miracle workers. I love that. There are opportunities all around us to make miracles happen. Some simple deed that you do may not seem like a miracle, but to someone else it is.

Barbara Thompson, second counselor in the Relief Society general presidency says “We need to rescue all that is the finest down deep inside of us so that as daughters,(And sons), of God we can do our part to build the kingdom of God. We will have help to do this. As Joseph declared, if you live up to your privileges, the angels cannot be restrained from being your associates”

So if we live righteously and do our part, we will have the help of angels to build the kingdom of God. And then by doing this, we, ourselves, will be angels to someone else. Let us bear one another’s burdens, mourn with those who mourn, comfort those who stand in need of comfort, and thus keep the covenants which we have made.

What are you going to do this Christmas season? How are you going to bless someone’s life by being an angel to them? Miracles during this Christmas season require our faith and works. May we be reminded once again of our promise to bear one another’s burdens, to mourn with those who mourn, comfort those who stand in need of comfort, and stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places. I love the last sentence of this talk, which is Elder Bateman’s testimony. He says, “I bear witness that Christmas is a season for angels. As they ministered to the Savior and others in the meridian of time, may we, as angels of mercy, minister to other families and to those in need in the fullness of times so that the Lord’s work may move forward.

I just want to add my testimony to his of how grateful I am for this church. And for the knowledge I have. I know the Lord works through other people to help us return to Him. I am so grateful for the angels in my life who have helped me simply just get through. I know that Heavenly Father will never leave us alone. He knows our needs and He knows how to help us we just need to ask in faith. I know that I can pray to Him wherever and whenever and He will listen. I know that families can be together forever and I am so grateful for that knowledge because my family has truly been there when I need them. They have been some of my most cherished angels. I know that the Atonement is a reality and that Christ suffered for our sins so that we could live with Him again.

Party In The USA

2009-10-01T09:08:00.002-06:00

So on Tuesday we decided to go up the canyon and have a photo shoot at South Fork. It is BEAU-TI-FUL up there right now! After the photo shoot, we were bored so decided to create a music video. Brianna put it all together for us and now it is on youtube. You need to watch it because it is pretty cute! The neighbor kids also wanted to be in the movie. click HERE to watch :D ENJOY!

Oh the beauty of fall

2009-09-30T11:11:00.005-06:00

I absolutely LOVE fall! It is by far my favorite season of the year. I love the changing colors, the cooler weather, the smell, and even down to the feeling of fall. It just makes me happy! I was not excited to hear that it is going to snow today. That kinda makes me sad. I hope the Beautiful colors are still here once the snow is past and gone.

My Testimony

2009-09-13T22:57:00.002-06:00

I had a very powerful learning experience this last monday where I learned the importance of prayer. and so the story begins. I was driving to Highland for FHE and since I don't live at Raintree anymore, I didn't have anyone to go with so I decided to drive myself. I was all alone. I thought I knew the way because I had been there before. I had never driven there myself though. As I was driving there, I got off of the wrong exit, got stuck in traffic, lots of construction and detours. I was totally lost, but thought that if I kept driving, I would get familiar with something and be able to find my way. I dept driving, and got even more lost to the point I didn't even know how to get to the freeway. I will be honest, I have never felt so lost in my life, and I was scared. As I was driving, I called my dad and told him I was lost. I told him what I saw and what I was driving past. He told me to keep driving and where I should go. He was pretty sure he know where I was. I followed his directions and they brought me to Thanksgiving point. Thankfully, my dad was coming home from work and his next exit was the one by Thanksgiving Point. We met there and he told me exactly how to get to where everything was familiar to me, and where I would be able to find my way. If I hadn't called my dad, he would not have known to help me.

If I ever feel lost, I cannot just expect Heavenly Father to help me. I need to ask for His help. He isn't going to force His help on me because we have our agency. But if I ask for His help, He will gladly give it to me. If I am lost, He will find me. He knows where I am and He knows how to get me to my end destination. I just need to follow His exact directions. And If I mess up, or get lost again, He will still be there for me, and He will still help me get back on the right path and find my way. I am so grateful for that little experience that helped me reallize how important my relationship should be with my Heavenly Father. I think he gave me that experience to show me that He is wating for me. He is ready to listen and answer me if I will just talk with Him.

I have also been thinking a lot about Satan, and the power he has over us. I found this story which hit me how hard Satan is working on all of us, and how his plan really is working. Even on me.

Satan's Worldwide Convention

Satan called a worldwide convention.

In his opening address to his evil angels, Satan said, "We can't keep the Christians from going to church. We can't keep them from reading their Bibles and knowing the truth. We can't even keep them from forming an intimate, abiding relationship experience in Christ. If they gain that connection with Jesus, our power over them is broken.

So, let them go to their churches; let them have their conservative lifestyles, but steal their time, so they can't gain that relationship with Jesus Christ. This is what I want you to do, angels. Distract them from gaining hold of their Saviour and maintaining that vital connection throughout their day!" "How shall we do this?" shouted his angels. "Keep them busy in the non-essentials of life and invent innumerable schemes to occupy their minds," he answered. "Tempt them to spend, spend, spend, and borrow, borrow, borrow. Persuade the wives to go to work for long hours and the husbands to work 6-7 days each week, 10-12 hours a day, so they can afford empty lifestyles. Keep them from spending time with their children. As their family fragments, soon, their home will offer no escape from the pressures of work!

"Over-stimulate their minds so that they cannot hear that still, small voice. Entice them to play the radio or cassette player whenever they drive. To keep the TV, VCR, CDs and their PCs going constantly in their home and see to it that every store and restaurant in the world plays non-biblical music constantly. This will jam their minds and break that union with Christ. Fill the coffee tables with magazines and newspapers.

"Pound their minds with the news 24 hours a day. Invade their driving moments with billboards. Flood their mailboxes with junk mail, mail order catalogues, sweepstakes, and every kind of newsletter and promotional offering free products, services and false hopes. Keep skinny, beautiful models on the magazines so the husbands will believe that external beauty is what's important, and they'll become dissatisfied with their wives. Ha! That will fragment those families quickly!

"Even in their recreation, let them be excessive. Have them return from their recreation exhausted, disquieted and unprepared for the coming week. Don't let them go out in nature to reflect on God's wonders. Send them to amusement parks, sporting events, concerts and movies instead. Keep them busy, busy, busy! And when they meet for spiritual fellowship, involve them in gossip and small talk so that they leave with troubled consciences and unsettled emotions.

"Go ahead, let them be involved in soul winning; but crowd their lives with so many good causes they have no time to seek power from Jesus. Soon they will be working in their own strength, sacrificing their health and family for the good of the cause. It will work! It will work!"

It was quite a convention. The evil angels went eagerly to their assignments causing Christians everywhere to get more busy and more rushed, going here and there.

Satan knows he can't keep me from going to church, or from doing what is good, but he knows that if he fills my life with good stuff, that I will forget the essentials fo the Gospel,. I see it almost everyday with reading the Book of Mormon. I get to "busy" with other "good" things, but forget the "essential" things. This has made me more and more about wanting to do the essential things first, and then I will have time for the good things. Everything will fall in to place.

I know that Satan is real, but I also know that Jesus Christ is real. I am so grateful for the knowledge that through Christ, I can progress every single day. If I fall short, Christ is there to make up the rest. I know that I can follow Christ, He is calling to me to follow him. If It is too hard for me to follow him, he will stand by me; if he isn't standing by me or in front of me, I know that he is behind me, pushing me, giving me encouragement. And if he isn't there, during my hardest times, he will be there carrying me. He loves me. I know he does. I can feel his love from the people He has put in my life. I know that the people I know, and the people in my life are here to help me, to remember, and to know of the love of our Savior. It is just a taste of His love. I can't even comprehend the love He has for each and every one of us. Enough love that he would die for us and for all of our sins, and sorrows. He knows EXACTLY what we are going through. He can help us through it. Always!

There is so much more I can say. My heart if SO full today. So full of gratitude.

One Year...

2009-09-08T09:28:00.002-06:00

Today is the one year mark of the passing of a woman I love dearly. My Grandma Joy. She lived for her family, especially her grandchildren. It's amazing how even though she is gone, I am still learning things from her. From her example. Her positive attitude no matter the situation. Her love for EVERYONE she met. And the smile that was glued to her face. There are some days when I am having a horrible day, and I just think, "how would Grandma handle this?" I immediately change my attitude to the attitude she would have; always looking on the positive side of things. It will all work out. I miss her SO SO SO much and wish she could be here right now seeing everyone grow up and acheive many great things, but at the same time, I know she is where she belongs. I know she is doing much good in Heaven with her sweet Jim. And I am sure she is right here with us, watching us all grow and progress, cheering us on.

I am so grateful for the knowledge that Families Can Be Together Forever. It gives me that little extra push to do a little more, and be a little better so that I can be with the ones I love FOREVER.

I love and Miss you Grandma Joy.

Sundays Food For Thought

2009-06-28T21:45:00.002-06:00

"When I was a young man in high school, one of my passions was American football. I played middle linebacker. The coach worked the team hard, teaching us the basics. We practiced until the skills became natural and automatic. During one play against our biggest rival, I had an experience that has helped me over the years. We were on defense. I knew my assigned opponent, and as the play unfolded, he moved to my right into the line of scrimmage. There was a lot of noise from players and fans. I reacted as the coach had taught us and followed my man into the line, not knowing if he had the ball. To my surprise, I felt the ball partially in my hands. I gave it a tug, but my opponent didn’t let go. As we tugged back and forth, amid all the noise I heard a voice yelling, “Packer, tackle him!” That was enough to bring me to my senses, so I dropped him on the spot. I have wondered how I heard that voice above all the other noise. I had become acquainted with the voice of the coach during the practices, and I had learned to trust it. I knew that what he taught worked."

-Elder Allan F. Packer-

I have been thinking a lot about prayer lately and how I can make my prayers more sincere. I love this story and how much it symbolizes prayer and our relationship with our Heavenly Father. Our Heavenly Father has worked us hard and has taught us the basics. Our rival is Satan, and we know how to beat him. Even with all the noise of the world. We need to remember what we have been taught. I love how Packer was acquainted to the voice of the coach and he heard him above all the noise of the crowd and he trusted it. I have been working on my relationship with my Father in Heaven and have started to begin seeing his hand in my life, and hearing his promptings. It is because I have practiced with him, and now recognize and trust what he tells me or asks me to do. I am so grateful for prayer and for the promptings I get and continue to progress and get better at my personal prayers.

Sundays Food For Thought

2009-06-21T22:01:00.002-06:00

As I was reading and looking through one of my journals I found this quote and it really stood out to me. It is exactly what I needed to hear as a young single adult woman.

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

- Elder Jeffrey R. Holland

So, thought I would just share a little blip of what I have been thinking about. :)

oh and HAPPY FATHERS DAY!!!!

Cute Moment

2009-06-16T19:44:00.002-06:00

Okay, So yesterday at work a little 3 year old made my day. After this one moment, I couldn't stop smiling. So here is what happened. I was over by the bathroom at Macey's sweeping up a little mess when a little girl came up to me. She said, " hey, hey. I am going in the bathroom, when you hear the potty flush can you open the door, it is too heavy for me and I don't want to get stucked in the bathroom." I thought it was so cute how she put it. But that isn't the end of my story. After I was done sweeping, my hands were a little dirty, so I decided to go into the bathroom to wash my hands, when I heard this same little girl singing. She was in the stall just singing. I couldn't make out any words, but it was just a bunch of la la's and ba ba's. Even though I was in the bathroom, she didn't even mind. She was going to sing her little heart out while going to the bathroom. It kind of reminded me of Monster's Inc. when Boo is singing in the bathroom. Well, she was done going to the bathroom, I heard the toilet flush, she came out, washed her hands and then I let her out of the bathroom. She went out the door said "thank you miss" and skipped off to her mom. That little moment made my day and I am still smiling about it.

I love the littlem moments that happen everyday that just make life so much better!

Sundays Food For Thought

2009-06-14T17:07:00.002-06:00

Be Still My Soul

Be still, my soul: The Lord is on thy side;
With patience bear thy cross of grief or pain.
Leave to thy God to order and provide;
In ev'ry change he faithful will remain.
Be still, my soul: Thy best, thy heav'nly Friend
Thru thorny ways leads to a joyful end.

Be still, my soul: Thy God doth undertake
To guide the future as he has the past.
Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake;
All now mysterious shall be bright at last.
Be still, my soul: The waves and winds still know
His voice who ruled them while he dwelt below.

Be still, my soul: The hour is hast'ning on
When we shall be forever with the Lord,
When disappointment, grief, and fear are gone,
Sorrow forgot, love's purest joys restored.
Be still, my soul: When change and tears are past,
All safe and blessed we shall meet at last.

I haven't written anything about my Grandma since before she died. Lately I have heard this song everywhere and I am not sure why. Last sunday we sang it in church every meeting, Then someone did a special musical number at ward prayer and sang this song. This sunday we sang it again in sacrament meeting, and then Brianna did it as her musical moment in Relief Society.

I miss my Grandma a lot and it is hard for me to express how much I miss her. I love this song. It is one of my favorites because of the message it tells us. Brianna, Shelby, and I sang this song at my Grandma's Funeral. It was one thing that reminded me that I am not the only one feeling the way I was during that time. Even though I knew my family was sad, it also reminded me that the Lord has felt this way too, and that I could turn to the Lord and he would be by my side during this trial.

I am grateful I have heard this song so many times in the past week because I have been struggling a little bit lately with a lot of things. It is hard. Life is hard. I love the last line of the first verse " Through thorny ways, leads to a joyful end." All of our trials will end for our better. Our end of our trials will be joyful, and we will be so much stronger. I have seen it in my life and in the life of others. I am so grateful to know that during my trials, I just need to remember this simple truth and they will be so much easier. This line also reminds me of a rose or the beautiful rainbow I saw the other day after the huge rainstorm. Roses and Thorns grow together. Hard times will only make us better and stronger people.

This song is just full of Hope. The line in the second verse also catches my attention. " Thy hope, thy confidence let nothing shake; all now mysterious shall be bright at last." and then finally, the last line of the last verse. "Be still my soul, when change and tears are past, all safe and blessed we shall meet at last." If I remain faithful and remember God in my life, If I remember the Lord atoned for my sins, and for my pains and sorrows, I will be able to live with the Lord Forever, and I will be able to see my Grandma again and live with my family forever! I look forward to the day when I will be reunited with the Lord and with my family. Because I know that families are forever, I strive even more to do the things the Lord would have me do, and to fill my life with the things that are good. I will endure to the end, because I know that life can only get better.

Sunday's food for thought

2009-06-07T18:54:00.002-06:00

Never alone

By: Hilary Weeks

Why did this happen

Do you know what’s happened to me

And heaven were you watching

Were you watching over me

Cause the way I’ve been feeling

Well I’m feeling so alone

So if you hear this prayer

And if I’m not alone

I need to know

I need to know you’re there

I need something to hold on to

I need someone who will care

Carry me home

And Carry me through somehow

Make sense of this pain

And show me the way

Cause when the darkness comes I’m a prisoner to my fears

Although I’m listening, the doubt is all I hear

But then I reach for your hand

And feel you reaching back

And the light returns

And I begin

I begin to understand

My soul can feel the mercy

And the love in your flesh

And when I let go

And turn all the hurt and sorrow over to you

The burden is light

And trusting I find

Though the storms roll in and the winds of change may blow

I know you let them come so that I can learn and grow

And when I reach for your hand,

I feel you reaching back

And that’s how I know

I am never alone

Compassion and Kindness

2009-05-31T23:28:00.001-06:00

I am serving as the Relief Society Secretary in my Singles ward right now. We, as the presidency were asked to speak in church today. So here is my talk on Compassion and Kindness.

Many victims, badgered and broken, cry in vain for a touch of kindness and compassion but don’t know where to find it. I think we have all felt this way sometime in our lives. Badgered and broken. I surely have. I know, for me, I have felt this way because at that moment, I think I forget who I am, and why I am here. I forget my purpose. I found these words, from President Faust that I really reminded me of why we are here.

“I salute you young people as chosen, special spirits who have been reserved to come forth in this generation. You have great challenges. I hope you are beginning to achieve in some special way. Perhaps it is your smile, your personality, or your ability to lift others. Perhaps you are discovering you talent as an athlete, scholar, musician, artist, or in a hundred different areas. These accomplishments may cause you to think about who you really are.

Many [people] measure their self-worth solely in terms of their talent and accomplishments instead of who they really are inside. It is not always true that the more you achieve, the happier you will be.

God knows you and what you can become because He has known you from the beginning when you were His spirit sons and daughters. What you become will depend in large measure upon how you follow righteous principles and do good works.

If we really want to feel better about ourselves, we should do deeds of kindness. Kindness shapes our character and makes us more like our Father in Heaven. Great satisfaction can come in helping the poor, the sick, the elderly, or others who have special needs. Look around you; there are all kinds of opportunities.

Being friendly to our neighbors and to people at school and at church is a great way to show the lord that we want to keep the covenant we made at baptism. “ to bear on another’s burdens, that they may be light” (Mosiah 18:8). So many people are shy or lonely and need a kind word or smile. Lifting others is the way of the Master. So who do you think your are? Knowing who you are-- who you really are-- is closely tied to knowing God, for you are His children.”

We are all children of God. We all have that in common and we are to help each other return to Him in exaltation. We are to help those who are badgered and broken, we are to be kind to each other and lift each other up. We need to acquire the gift of compassion.

I have been reading the book “Standing For Something” by Gordon B. Hinckley which has many great stories and quotes in it. I found this one in it that I really liked.

Said paul to the Romans, “We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak.” and then he added these significant words, “and not to please ourselves (Romans 15:1) We have an obligation to assist one another, to build one another. No one of us is perfect; we have all made mistakes. Each of us occasionally needs to be disciplined and instructed. But such feedback ought to be offered in a spirit of correcting, helping, and strengthening. Can we not support each other? Teach one another? And encourage and praise those with whom we come in contact?

Imagine how our own families, let alone the world, would change if we vowed to keep faith with one another, strengthen one another, look for and accentuate the virtues in one another, and speak graciously concerning one another. Imagine the cumulative effect if we treated each other with respect and acceptance, if we willingly provided support. Such interactions practiced on a small scale would surely have a rippling effect throughout our homes and communities and, eventually, society at large.

Gordon B Hinckley

Isn’t this so true? It is amazing how one small act of kindness, one smile, or hug, can make such a big difference in one persons life, which will, eventually spread to others, and eventually the world.

During the meridian of time, when Jesus walked the dusty pathways of the Holy Land, Christ often spoke in parables.

Luke 10:30-37 is where you find the parable of the good Samaritan which I think is one of the best examples of compassion. It reads:

“A certain man went down from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.

“And by chance there came down a certain priest that way: and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side.

“And likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on him, and passed by on the other side.

“But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where he was: and when he saw him, he had compassion on him,

“And went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him.

“And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee.”

“Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour unto him that fell among the thieves?”

And he said, he that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, go, and do thou likewise.

How can we be like Christ? How can we follow his counsel “go, and do thou likewise.”? The definition of compassion is: Deep awareness of the suffering of another with the wish to relieve it We have no way of knowing when our privilege to extend a helping hand will unfold before us. The road to Jericho that each of us travels bears no name, and the weary traveler who needs our help may be one unknown. But we can pray and be prepared, and always willing to help lift those in need. To have a deep awareness of the suffering of another, and truly wish to relieve it. We can always ask for opportunities to make a persons day better.

I would like you guys to think about this. Who is my neighbor? Whom do I know right now who could be blessed by my compassion? What can I do to help this person? When can I start? Pray to our heavenly father and ask him who you can help, who is in need of your compassion and kindness, and how you can help them. I know that you will get an answer, and you will be able to help them.

I just want to wrap up with this quote by Gordon B. Hinckley. He says this in his book “Standing for Something”

For many years, there was a sign on the wall of a shoe shop I patronized that read: “I complained because I had no shoes until I saw a man who had no feet.” the most effective medicine for the sickness of self-pity is to lose ourselves in the service of others. The best antidote I know for worry is work, the best cure for weariness is the challenge of helping someone who is even more tired. One of the great ironies of life is this: He or she who serves almost always benefits more than he or she who is served. Strong hands and determined wills can improve the world and the condition of its people.

May we remember who we are, and what our purpose is on this earth. There is always someone who can use our help to return to back to our Heavenly Father. May we look our for those in need of our kindness and compassion and just remember that we are all children of God.

I would just like to end with my testimony that I know this church is true. I know it. I am so grateful for it and don’t know where I would be without it. I know that the lord works through other people to help us return to Him. I am so grateful for the knowledge that we have a Heavenly Father that will never leave us alone. To know that I can pray to him whenever and wherever I am, and he will listen. I know when we pray we will always receive an answer. It may not be the answer we wanted, or when we wanted it, but we will receive one. We just need to be ready for it. I know, and am so grateful for the knowledge, that families can be together forever. That I will be able to see my grandma’s and grandpa again. I know that the Atonement is a reality and that Christ suffered for our sins so we could live with him again. He is the ultimate example of compassion. Once again, I know this church is true. And I say these things, in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

Update on me!

2009-05-18T22:40:00.005-06:00

Beautiful Shot of the Provo Temple. I never have really thought the Provo Temple was one of the prettiest temples, but now that I live near it and can go there whenever I want, I have come to love it and find more and more beautiful things about it.

Bloomed Yellow Tulip. (Yes, I did take this picture)

White Tulips

Red Tulips

Red Tulip

okay okay, so I know I haven't written on my blog for a really really long time, but look, here I am writing! Yay for me and remembering that I actually had a blog! okay. so what's new with me?
*So I passed all of my classes this semester, thank goodness!
*I still am living away from home with my freakin awesome roomates.
*Brianna and I still share a room and we still can handle eachother.
*I realized how nice it is to actually sleep in until noon
*I am loving the free lazy time where I don't have to worry about which assignment I am procrastinating.
*And I am loving being me!
Well, anyways. Here is a real post. I love being outside when the sun is shining and the grass is just calling my name to lie down on it! Yesterday was Beautiful! I decided to go to the Provo Temple Grounds and just read. I was so beautiful, quiet, and peaceful. I think this may become a sunday tradition. Well, I also took pictures and here are a bunch of them.

I forgot how much I love taking pictures!

Me in the grass

Beautiful view from the hill

The sun shining through the trees

The Beautiful Temple

Another shot of the Temple

WOW!!! long time, no blog.

2009-03-08T22:28:00.009-06:00

Wow it has been a really really long time since I have blogged. A lot has been going on and I have been really busy with a lot of things. I still live at Raintree and I am loving it. I love my ward! I feel so welcome and feel the love in the ward.

This is my part of my FHE family in my ward

I have made many friends, and us as roomates are bonding a ton. I feel a lot closer to them as if we are family than I did last semester.

Here are my roomies( Minus Brittany)

Brianna (cousin) moved in with me and we have the coolest room in the UNIVERSE!!! we did bunk beds!

Our Freakin' Awesome Beds!

One Wall of our room!

I am still majoring in Elementary Education, But I am not even close to being done. I probably still have three years of schooling. I have been thinking a lot about going on a mission which will mess my schooling up a lot, but I know I will be blessed if I do what the Lord has planned for me. If a mission is what He has planned for me, I will go on a mission. I have been called as the Relief Society Secretary in my ward which was a little overwhelming at first, but is now my favorite calling I have ever had. I enjoy working with the three sisters I work with. They are all such good examples to me and I want to be just like them.

I am learning a lot here. I am having so many experiences I don't think I would ever have If I still lived at home and I am so grateful for the lessons I am learning.

Just remind me to blog and I will do it more often! I have a bad memory!

Strawberry on Steroids

2008-10-13T17:14:00.006-06:00

I was at work the other day and wanted some stawberries. I saw this package with a big on in it and opened it to look at it and it was ginormous!! So I bought it! This is it in the package.

This is me holding it! Look at it. It is bigger than my mouth!

Grandma LaJoy Dove Simmons

2008-09-11T22:21:00.000-06:00

December 26, 1934-September 8, 2008

Grandma is moving on. :(

2008-09-04T23:27:00.005-06:00

Grandma is in her last days now. . . I have been pondering about death for a long time now. I guess in the worlds eye it's not a happy thing for someone to die because it usually means the end, but in heaven's eye it is a wonderful thing. It is good for her I guess.

We visited her today which pretty much consisted of sitting next to her holding her hand, keeping her comfortable , giving her water, and making sure she was doing all right. We occasionally talked to her but she was pretty much asleep all the time. When she was not asleep, she was staring at the ceiling with a glassy look in her eyes. When she would stare she stared in the same exact spot. We were curious about what or who she was seeing. She really only responds to yes or no questions so we asked her if she was seeing Grandpa Jim. She nodded yes. We then realized that she literally is halfway in this world and halfway in the spirit world speaking with her loved ones which have passed away before her. She is slowly preparing to leave us on this earth and reunite with those in the next life.

This has been such a sad thing to me for a long time even up to earlier today. I knew I would see her again and that death isn't the end, but I didn't realize that we are not the only ones that who want to see her. What about her husband, parents, siblings, cousins, and other good friends who have passed away? How long has it been since they last saw her? They are anticipating the day or hour when they will finally meet with her again.

I guess dying is kinda like going on a long trip or a mission. When you leave your family to go on the mission it is like leaving the pre-mortal life and coming to this earth. When you are done with your mission, it is as if you are done on this earth, or you physically die. When you get off a mission there are so many people at "home" like family waiting for you to return, but the people you met and impacted on your mission want you to stay, but know that you have to leave. They are sad you have to leave even though they have the knowledge that leaving is what's best. Just like on this earth, when people die or get closer to death, we want so bad for them to stay, but there are people waiting for them to come "home" who miss them just as much as we will. When we are through with our mission on this earth, our loved ones who have died will be waiting to embrace us as we come "home."

I know that I will definitely miss my Grandma Joy, but she will be waiting for me when it is my turn to return home.

I am now at somewhat of a peace about this whole death thing because I have now gained more of an understanding of it. When I was sitting at Darcy and Vikki's house with my grandma, I started reading the booklet from what the hospis gives the family to help them better understand the death process. I wrote a couple things down which have helped me be more at peace about this.

DYING

I am standing upon the seashore. A ship at my side spreads her white sails to the morning breeze and starts for the blue ocean. She is an object of beauty and strength. I stand and watch her until at length she hangs like a speck of white cloud just where the sea and sky come to mingle with eachother.

Then someone at my side says: "There, She is gone!"

"Gone where?"

Gone from my sight. That is all. She is just as large in mast and hull and spar as she was when she left my side and she is just as able to bear the load of living freight to her destined port.

Her diminished size is in me, not in her. And just at the moment when someone at my side says: "There, She is gone!" there are other eyes watching her coming, and other voices ready to take up the glad shout: "here she comes!"

And that is dying

--Henry Van Dyke--

I don't know why this is so comforting to me, but I think it is because it has put it into perspective for me. I definitely love my grandma and definitely cannot promise I will not cry, but I think I will be crying happy tears for her.

I LOVE YOU GRANDMA!

Update on me

2008-08-24T23:04:00.003-06:00

Sorry I have not updated about me in a long time. . . Here it goes. . . I am moving out in less than 12 hours!!! That's all I have to say. . . oh wait, one more thing................. WAHOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Why???

2008-08-14T01:43:00.002-06:00

Why is it that I can't go to sleep? Yes, It is almost 2 in the morning and I am still awake. . . I don't understand why, when I want to stay up and do stuff like read a book, or watch a movie, I always fall asleep in the process. But when I actually want to go to bed earlier than usual, (11:00) I can't. . . It is driving me crazy!!! I have been laying in bed with my eyes shut for almost 3 hours now and haven't even dozed off for a second. So I am on my computer and watching TV trying to make myself tired. . . It doesn't seem to be working. . . And I have a long day ahead of me tomorrow. I am going to LAGOON! and now, I am going to lagoon on no sleep. . . I think I am going to be a tad bit tired tomorrow. well, time to try sleeping again. Wish me luck. . .

FIVE FIVE FIVE FIVE FIVE

2008-08-06T13:58:00.002-06:00

Rules

Each player answers the questions themselves. At the end of the post the player then tags 5 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment letting them know that they’ve been tagged and asking them to read your blog. Let the person who tagged you know when you’ve posted your answers.
5 things to do on todays list. . .

1. Get ready for day
2. Go to institute
3. Clean room
4. Eat food
5. Help Mom with relief society retreat stuff

Five snacks I enjoy. . .

1. CHEESE!
2. Chocolate
3. Crackers
4. Strawberries
5. Strawberry and banana SOBE

Five things I would do if I were a Millionare. . .

1. tithing
2. buy a brand new car
3. buy clothes
4. buy a house
5. Buy a private plane and travel the world

5 places I have lived. . .

1. By Scera theatre in orem
2. in my current home
3. Moving to Provo
4. My imagination
5. My bedroom

I tag. . .

1. Mom
2. Kim
3. Marissa
4. Brianna
5. Janet

Mamma Mia

2008-08-05T00:14:00.002-06:00

I went and saw the new Movie Mamma Mia the other day and fell in love with it. . . If you like musicals, and you like ABBA music, you will love this movie. . . It is a little cheesey in some parts, but it is so so so so cute!!! I loved it and recommend it to anyone who likes cute movies!!!

Google Reader

2008-07-26T11:31:00.002-06:00

I just added google reader today and found it to be AMAZING!!!! If you don't have it and you have a ton of blogs, you definitely need to add it. It tells you if there are updated blogs from all the blogs you keep up to date with. . . all I have to say is it is amazing and you need to check it out!

A New Woman!!! contd.

2008-07-25T00:18:00.001-06:00

So Here is my new car!!!!! it is awesome and it's name shall be ST. Louie JR. since my other car was old ST. Louie

And my totally freakin awesome new hair do! do do do do da da da!!!! I love it! I was growing my hair out, but then I gave up. . . But it was pretty long, they cut about 7 or 8 inches off!!

How many have my name?

2008-07-24T17:02:00.000-06:00

HowManyOfMe.com

There are
11
people with my name in the U.S.A.

http://howmanyofme.com">How many have your name?

A new woman!!!!

2008-07-24T16:30:00.000-06:00

So I feel like a completely new person. I chopped my hair off, I got a new car, and I am moving out in a month!!!!I am so excited to experience a completely different lifestyle. . . the life of a college student! I will post pictures of my hair and my car later. . . Maybe, If I ever get to it. (I am a little bit of a procrastinator:) )

Migrated to Blogger

2008-07-03T23:56:00.000-06:00

I decided I needed to move on from windows live to blogger. You can do so much more with blogger. Hopefully I keep up with this because I have failed in the past.