Lu's Blog

New Posts on the Russell Blog

2011-11-23T16:43:00.000-08:00

http://tarussell.blogspot.com/

Formals, Bridal Shower, and Bachelorette Party!

Farwell to the Bologna Blog

2011-09-14T09:51:00.000-07:00

So, it's finally happened. I am getting married and my single life is coming to an end. Which means this blog is coming to an end. I have written 109 post over the last 4 years! It's been a fun run!

Our new blog will is tarussell.blogspot.com! It's not completely finished but it's a start!

For updates from me don't look here anymore! Adios!

Men's Rules

2011-07-05T15:12:00.000-07:00

This was shown to me by my boss at work. Apparently I have a thing or two to learn. to learn Baha haha .... sad thing is, most of these actually fit.

These are our rules!
Please note: these are all numbered '1 '
ON PURPOSE!

1. Men are NOT mind readers.
1. Learn to work the toilet seat. You're a big girl. If it's up, put it down.We need it up, you need it down. You don't hear us complaining about you leaving it down.
1. Sunday sports It's like the full moon or the changing of the tides. Let it be.
1. Crying is blackmail.
1. Ask for what you want.
Let us be clear on this one: Subtle hints do not work!
Strong hints do not work! Obvious hints do not work! Just say it!
1. Yes and No are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question.
1. Come to us with a problem ONLY if you want help solving it. That's what we do. Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.

1. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument.
In fact, all comments become Null and void after 7 Days.

1. If you think you're fat, you probably are. Don't ask us.
1. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of the ways makes you sad or angry, we meant the other one

1. You can either ask us to do something Or tell us how you want it done.
Not both.
If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.
1. Whenever possible, Please say whatever you have to say during commercials.
1. Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.
1. ALL men see in only 16 colors, like Windows default settings.
Peach, for example, is a fruit, not A color. Pumpkin is also a fruit. We have NO idea what mauve is.
1. If it itches, it will be scratched. We do that.

1. If we ask what is wrong and you say 'nothing,' We will act like nothing's wrong. We know you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle.
1. If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, Expect an answer you don't want to hear.
1. When we have to go somewhere, absolutely anything you wear is fine... Really .
1. Don't ask us what we're thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as baseball or golf.
1. You have enough clothes.
1. You have too many shoes.
1. I am in shape. Round IS a shape!
1. Thank you for reading this.
Yes, I know, I have to sleep on the couch tonight;

But did you know men really don't mind that? It's like camping.

I am itching for a change!

2011-06-27T19:50:00.000-07:00

I need some opinions. If you like my first options do you have any ideas of how I can still do a change without cutting it....Ah...

My current hair Style.... I love love love long hair but it's hot and a lot of work! I am kinda just lookin for a change....

Here is the option I have been debating. I would probably do it a little longer than this, so I can still pull it up. (Link to another style that I can do with this cut) If you have seen sweet home Alabama it would be like that!

Russell Reunion

2011-06-25T10:20:00.000-07:00

I tagged along with Tyler's family to Duck Creek Village (near Ceder City) for their family reunion this year. Our cabin was about a half hour from Zion and Bryce. It was so much fun. Here are just a few pics of the trip. I took a ton of pictures but I only like a few.

Bryce Canyon

Zions River

Bryce

Tyler's Family (part of them)

Me and Tyler at Bryce

:) Tyler

I like it

Family Home Evening Light Painting

Grant

ha ha

Tyler's parents

I was having issues.

I love these pictures!

2011-02-16T22:58:00.000-08:00

So, my dear friend Susan had a evening wear birthday party! It was a ton of fun. I wore my awesome Egyptian dress from high school but actually wore it for it's purpose! Of course we took pictures and here are my favorites.

Me and Tyler- I LOVE THIS PICTURE

He he-

I like this one too!

Full length shot of mine and Jenny's dresses.

My cute roommie Jenny!

Date Night

2011-02-12T09:11:00.000-08:00

I love date night! I went to Provo Beach Resort (highly suggest it) with Tyler, and had so much fun. (I go into more detail on my picture blog) Anywho, we watched while you were sleeping after :), and it was just a really fun night! Tyler is great! ...... Look how cute!

Vignetted Me

2011-02-05T13:05:00.000-08:00

Okay- So, I have been wanting to do a photo a day blog for some time now, and hooray for me I finally did it! I am only five days into it but I am excited for it all the same...

You should follow it! :)

www.vignettedme.blogspot.com

Motivation

2011-01-27T10:42:00.000-08:00

- Disclaimer- The point of this post is not to get compliments, or false motivation to do well. This post is simply my thought process of what I am doing with my life.

I have been all sorts of confused and stressed lately. Poor Tyler gets to deal with it.

It was a year ago that I was up at Utah State going into education and really enjoying the prospects of being a teacher. I enjoyed the subject I was studying but I don't think that it was the right field of study for me. I didn't feel like a had the skill set necessary to succeed in teaching that subject... I loved photography and learning more about it, and ultimately that is the main reason I switched schools. I had the drive to excel!

So, now here I am at UVU going into digital media, and I honestly feel so under qualified. I have a passion for photography, and love learning everything I can about it. I want to continue to learn more, and really become a great photographer. I love talking about it, and explaining how it all works.

But... I am looking at the work that I have done thus far, and yeah sure it's good but I don't know if I have the talent necessary to achieve the goals that I have set before myself. I have the passion to push me there. But- I am looking at myself, and my work and really wondering if I have what it takes. I look at my photos from two years ago and there is no question that I am leaps and bounds ahead of where I was before but is that enough. I don't put myself in the category of, "wow, look at her photos; she is great."

I knew that when I switched to this career it was far from stable, and so that is another consideration I have been thinking about.... I have thought about going into education to get my teaching certificate because I think it would be so much fun to teach photography and hopefully spark a passion for photography in someone else.

Thoughts though- How would I go about doing that? Would I be qualified (I do NOT want to be one of those teachers that fit under the category of "those who can't do, teach") Also, how much more school would I have to go through to become a teacher? Is that really what I want to do, or am I just using it as a copout?

So, school-work-goals-photography-life are all spinning around in my head. I have my main goals of having a family, and having that as my main priority but how do I work in all of my goals together? How do I make it all come together with the idea of eventually becoming a mom.. hmmm

I am a bit lost in a lot of things. I need to find the motivation to figure it out, and move forward with my life confidently! Now, where to find it!?

1st Grade

2011-01-25T18:24:00.000-08:00

I was finally a big kid; I stayed at school all day long, and had an actual number for a grade. As cool as that was, I didn't really like first grade; at least from what I can remember. The only memories are educational or not that pleasant.

I had Mrs. Burnah for my teacher at Salem Elementary. She was a pretty nice lady; she was in my ward as well.

Lets see what do I remember...

One morning our teacher had the class sing the alphabet as fast as we possibly could. After singing it about three times as fast as we could and we still weren't saying the letters fast enough. Mrs. Burnah taught us how to say the letters the "short way" (as in phonetically).

I peed my pants in the first grade too. Not really my pants; I was in a skirt! I was wearing this ugly jean skirt that had sunflower patches on the side. I remember it with detail because Mom really did not like the skirt, and when I peed in it mom made the statement that it must be a sign that I should never wear the skirt again.

The tire swing was probably the coolest part of the playground. I would eat my lunch as fast as I could so I could get out to the playground very first. I don't remember the teachers name but I remember going to drop off my food in the garbage and send the tray down the shoot when the teacher gave me the scariest look and told me I hadn't eaten enough of my food and I needed to go eat more. She was completely right but I was sourly disappointed because I didn't get to play on the tire swing.

We had a stop light in this school. If the light was green it was okay to go outside, red you had to play inside, and yellow it was up to your teacher (usually you had to have a coat). It was right outside the lunchroom door. There was one time in particular that I remember looking up at the light being excited that it was green and then being devastated because all of the buttons on the front of my shirt were undone. Who knows how long it had been like that.. Good thing I was only six!

This was the grade when I was introduced to all the cool things about grade school. Like those boards with pegs that you could make designs with the rubber bands. Or the really cool pattern block things.

... Not to mention recess!

I didn't have any friends but it still was fun. I don't have many memories of recess. The only two I remember really weren't that great.

1-I would always watch the older kids run up the slides the wrong way and look so happy when they made it to the top. I wanted to be like them. I ran across the gravel and made it about half way up the slide before I tripped and face planted it right onto the shiny metal surface. I of course started crying, and my nose started to bleed. I was too embarrassed to tell anyone what really happened. I lied and told them I ran into a tree...So much better!

2- Remember the statement from above- the "I didn't have any friends" comment. Well, when I tried to make friends I got myself into trouble. Making grass nests became a pretty big deal. But we didn't have real eggs so they were always filled with gravel from the playground. In attempt to make more friends I lied to all the kids and told them that I had some eggs we could put in there- that way the birds would be confused and come and live in our nests that we made.

I didn't really have any eggs but there was a teacher who had some on display in one of the hallways. Yep, I stole an egg and lived it up for one whole recess. I remember Jessica Eggbert took the egg to class with her till we went out again. Her teacher recognized the egg and it got turned back on me, and I was caught. Once again I had the horrible guilt feeling of being ashamed when my sweet teacher looked at me all disappointed like and asked my why I stole the egg. That would have been a good enough punishment but I got into even bigger trouble when I got home. Dad said he wouldn't look at me because he didn't want to be friends with a liar. :( I hugged me eventually, and we were friends again. Spankings and a month grounding was included!

So This One Time!

2011-01-15T21:55:00.000-08:00

So, I don't think that you realize what has happened. I know you all pay very close attention to the details in my life, and make mental notes of major events that happen, BUT even with that in consideration, I don't think you understand the magnitude of the situation we have at hand here. It's as big a lion, as small as a San Man, as cool as an amazing photograph, or blah blah blah! Basically it's a big deal.

It has been one year since I completely flipped my life upside down, and went in a completely different direction. I know you are all just as shocked as I was when I first thought about it- your minds must be just racing by the significance of that decision. As I have been thinking about it I think I have decided that the year of 2010 has probably been the most eventful year of my entire life! (I'm not that old but I don't think that it is going to surpass this past year anytime soon-as in the amount of big events)

1-I started the year with the crazy idea of switching schools and not being an Aggie anymore and then I actually followed through with it. Not only did I switch schools but with the help of Richard I managed to pull it off in a three day period of time!

2- I got into a major that I absolutely love and have made some wonderful contacts, and friends in the process.

3- I moved into BYU country and actually really like it here.

4- I WENT TO AFRICA-- I think this one should be on my list at least three time because of how cool it was.

5- T.V. got home from his mission (different turn of events that followed that were completely unexpected and really twisted around)

6- I bought a new camera to help me in pursuit of my photography

- I got my website up as well.

7- I started dating T.R. which has been amazing!

8- Relationships have definitely been more roller coaster like than any other year.

9- I finally got to live with the coolest people ever. my dear cousins!

10- I am in one of the best wards that I have ever been in, and have made some amazing friends.

11- Oh, and I have a trophy above my fireplace that I received because we got second place in my bowling league. It even has my name on it; it's pretty legit ;)

So, now it is January 2011 and I am happy to report that my life is pretty average these days. It of course is wonderful but thankfully uneventful. Eventful doesn't always mean enjoyable.

OH! I also quit my job at Sears. *Insert happy dance here*- and considering I can't dance it's more of just wiggle in my chair :) but no really. I have liked working at Sears but I don't know what it is I have really just hit my point that I can't handle it anymore. It's also not giving me the hours I need to even make it close to making it above water.

So, it's January and life is simply good.

My Cheeks Are Killing Me

2010-12-28T12:24:00.001-08:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UAYoiCrYvAU

You know how sometimes when you have to take a ton of pictures in a row your face starts hurting because you have to keep smiling so much. Well, life has been that way for me lately but not because of pictures. Life is just good. The Millers are in town, everyone has been here for Christmas, Tyler is home, and I was able to manage not working a ton this week at the studio. :) So, I have really been able to enjoy the last few days!

With how crazy life has been this last little while I am ready for a nice break, and to have my life back to normal. Okay not my normal- my normal is nuts. So, I guess just less all over the place. I like that idea. hmm....

MY FINAL MOVIE!!!

2010-12-15T11:35:00.000-08:00

Semester Update

2010-12-08T23:18:00.000-08:00

I am half way done with my fourth year of college!! That is just crazy to me. I always thought I would feel so much older when I hit this point but I don't feel that old. I can see I have definitely grown from my freshman year and I am growing up, but in so many ways I still feel like a kid.

This school year has been one of my very favorites. My ward is amazing, and I have made some really really good friends here. I really have been blessed with where I am at in life. I actually feel like I fit in here- (I am actually one of the younger girls in the ward. most the girls are RM's, and we don't have any PreMi's)

I think back on this past semester and it's been the biggest emotional roller coaster I have ever been on. I am grateful for where I am though. When it comes to relationships I don't think I have ever been so stressed out in my entire life! I am happy with my life the way it is right now though.

Anyways, here are some pictures from our ward Christmas party!-

Oh, I also just finished my bowling league for the semester. I was horrible when we started but I am actually not to shabby now. I bowled a 146 tonight.

New Favorite Picture!

This one is close to being my favorite- On a normal scale I would say this one wins but the other one is just well... it fits!

Add Byron and Mike to this picture and you will have our main group- We have Me, Tyler, Trent, David Dekker, Ben, Jenny, and Curtis. These are my boys!

Cheesy Christmas Card- Yes, please!

Me and the Roommies!

Blast From The Past.

2010-12-01T23:02:00.001-08:00

So, I haven't updated in a while! BUT it's because I started a new blog. I have been thinking about memories that I have of growing up and I am afraid that if I don't write them down I am going to forget about them. I already have forgotten a lot, and I'm not even old yet.

The posts aren't super entertaining, but I am mostly just trying to get the memories in some tangible form. If you have more information about one of my memories that is wrong or I'm fuzzy on the details feel free to comment.

You don't even have to read it- it's probably only fun for me (unless you are part of it) to read. Anyways, check it out!

THE COOL NEW BLOG-Blast From The Past!

Kindergarten

2010-12-01T18:24:00.000-08:00

Kindergarten was great!

There were a lot of great things about kindergarten.

-Singing was always a plus- If you did a really good job at singing one of the teachers would give you a laminated shape to sit on until the end of class when you got to exchange it for a treat.

-You got to trace the alphabet and numbers with all 8 colors from the crayon box- I remember having the hardest time with the #8 for some reason.

-You wore big t-shirts for painting..I still love the smell of paint (not in the bad way), and school supplies.

-You only had half day and then you got to ride the smaller bus to get home.

- Coloring was the coolest...along with other arts and crafts

It was my kindergarten year when I first experienced the guilt trip you can be subject to from teachers. When it was time to clean up our teacher would warn us and then count to ten. By the time she got to ten we needed to have all of our stuff put away in our cubbies, and be sitting on the rug. If you didn't make it to the rug your name would be put on the board as a warning.

I was finishing coloring my picture one day when my teacher told us to clean up. I wanted to hurry and finish before I sat down. I tried to hurry as fast as I could and get to the rug on time but I failed. When I finally made it to the rug my teacher looked at me all disappointed like and put my name on the board. I was absolutely devastated. It was the first time that had ever happened and I just remember the sick pit in my stomach... It's funny how much that affected me.

My first field trip ever was to the Hogle Zoo that year. It was also the first time I had been away from mom for an extended period of time (that I remember anyways). I don't remember much about the trip except for lunch. Mom packed me a little baggy of Whoppers, and my favorite sandwich at the time; a mayo, ketchup, and mustard sandwich. It had been in my bag all day and so it was warm. Sadly enough, I loved it! -- that was also the first and last time I have ever been to that zoo.

I think there was some sort of animal thing going on that year. For our kindergarten graduation it was animal themed. We had a ton of animal songs memorized, and we had animal cutouts for our faces. I wish I could remember the songs because they were awesome.

The only other memory I have of kindergarten was the day I got stuck at school. Mom told me not to ride the bus home that day because she would be picking DeAnna, Kenny, and me up from the school. So, I didn't get on the bus that day. (our bus driver was this cute old man who was super smiley. Mr. Willy I think) Anyways, I didn't get on the bus, but I didn't see my mom anywhere.

The teacher had me come back inside, and wait in the classroom. The afternoon class had already started, and I didn't know anyone in there. I remember the looked like they were having so much fun. It was hat day for them, and I was just sitting on the rug looking at them.

I was so scared. I kept trying to think if I knew my way home if I started walking. Mom hadn't come yet, and I was scared I was going to be left at the school all night.

I don't know how long it was before mom showed up. I don't even know how this story ends but I remember the most random details. I can still picture some of the girls hats, and the design on the rug. It wasn't that big of a deal but for a five year old it must have been because it's stuck in my memory.

So, That's what I remember about kindergarten.

Musical Memories

2010-11-30T18:27:00.000-08:00

Growing up in woodland Hills made it a bit difficult to roller blade because of the lack of side walks and the hills (hence the woodland HILLS). This wasn't necessarily a negative thing. My siblings and I just needed to be more creative when it came to the activities we wanted to do. To make roller blading possible we would first clear the three car garage, and sweep all the screws and other potentially hazardous particles to the sides.

Once the garage was cleared we would get the big tape player, and skate till we were too exhausted to skate anymore. We listened to the same two songs over and over again. The theme song from top gun, and Danger Zone. Anytime I hear one of those songs I can't help but smile and think of the cold garage and skating in the never ending circles.

(this paragraph is from a paper I wrote for my english class)

Ever since before I can remember the song "The dance," by Garth Brooks has been a large part of my life. I would sit cradled in a ball on the floor and just watch my dads fingers flow from sting to string. This didn't happen very often because my dad would always declare that he couldn't sing and one of the boys should play instead. Even with that declaration I always loved the sound of my dads voice and the guitar.

Ray Lynch (celestial soda pop) , and Enya will forever remind me of mom sewing and family vacations. We listened to that music over and over again in the car on our way to Missouri. I was too little to remember much about the trip but I still love the music.- Mom would also listen to it as she would sew.

I don't really know how this song really goes but as I was thinking of songs from my childhood this song kept coming to mind. "Too high you can't go over it. Too low you can't go under it. To wide you can't go around. Oh bless my soul. Bless my soul in...somthin somthin abraham."

"Love is spoken here" Is still one of my favorite primary songs because I would always sing it with Kenny growing up. Usually when we were home alone.

If Kenny was in a nice mood we would sing that song. If he was in a "funny, scare Alishia half to death mood" he would first stare out the window all creepy like, and then start pounding on the low keys of the piano. For some reason that would scare me half to death.

Other things I remember: Meet Joe Black soundtrack, Billy Joel, Andrew Lloyd Weber, Andrea Bocelli, Ace of Base, Beastie Boys, Smashmouth, Dido, and well a lot more but these are the big ones.

More songs became a big part of my life as I hit middle school and on, but from when I was a kid these are the main things.

Cousins

2010-11-30T18:26:00.000-08:00

I love my cousins! I didn't get too see them too often growing up so, when I did get to see them it was always a party. The three cousins my age were Nikki, Brooke, and Emily. There are so many memories that it is hard to pick which memories to write down.

Ha ha Proper Ladies- Brooke, Nikki, and I started the club proper ladies when we were probably around 9ish. No matter what we were doing (eating, playing, whatever) if one of us would say proper ladies we had to act very proper and good. Sit up strait, take very small bites of our food, try and speak in a british accent (because that was more lady like). In reverse to this, I don't remember the word we used, but we would say something like gross kids and we would go to the other extreme end of the scale. We would eat all gross, snarl, and just be random like that. It was fun though.

Nikki- Nikki and I would spend hours and hours on the phone just talking. Brooke wasn't in our area code and so it was long distance to call. So, Nikki and I would talk on the phone and write book identical letters. We always had so much fun playing together growing up.

Random thoughts/memories:

For some reason I always seemed to get a bloody nose when we were at her house.

We would always walk up the stairs super bow legged with our rear ends sticking out all funny.

I was wanting to get into yoga one summer and tried getting Nikki to watch a video with me. The video was a joke. The lady was more into the bad spirits getting out of you than anything else.

We came up with the most random random games to keep us entertained.

Veggie Tales!

Brooke- Brooke's house was always super fun to have sleepovers at. Auntie Ellen had awesome food and tons of games for us to play. She really knew how to throw a party, and make it the cool place to be. Brooke and I would write letters back and forth growing up. They would get so long- and there really wasn't much too them.

Along with all sorts of games we (brooke, aubrey, kenny, and me) always played house. Kenny and Brooke were the parents, and Aubrey and I were the kids. For some reason every time we played Kenny ended up dying in some way.

Other things that come to mind: Muppets Treasure Island, Scamper, Super Nintendo, New Years Eve Parties, Throwing up on the way to their house, and so so many more.

Emily- Emily wasn't allowed to have sleepovers growing up but we were still able to play at park days occasionally, and at family reunions. She was always a sweetheart, and would put up with the rest of fighting. We (the four girls) had a sleepover at the Duncan's one weekend. We were all about thirteen or so. We were so set on sleeping outside, but it was raining. After maybe a half hour of trying sleep under a tarp/fort on the deck we ended up all inside brushing each others hair, and talking till Uncle Brent had to come out for probably the 4th time to tell us to go to bed.

I have so many memories of these guys growing up. There is no way I can write them all down. I am sure I will remember more but these are the one that come to mind right now. Sleepovers with sugar water, eating way too much food, whipped cream fights (i'll probably do a post on new years parties), being scared to death of getting in trouble, fake sleeping, and well lots more.

Aubrey, Kelly, and Connie were a couple years younger than us but we still played with them quite a bit. Me and Aubrey were "Two bugs" forever, and I sadly made her play barbies with me for much longer than normal.

Danny was two years older than me but he was still awesome. When we got to hang out with there family it was always fun :)

We are all still close now too. I lived with Brooke and Nikki this past summer, and stay in touch with Emily here and there. I love my family.

Nikki, Emily, Danny, Brooke, Me

Bubble Gum

2010-11-28T18:28:00.000-08:00

I absolutely loved gum growing up. I liked other candy sure but if I had a choice I would always choose gum. It wasn't a secret that I had an obsession with this candy. I still get bubble gum every Christmas/Easter/Birthday from my cute mom who always remembers the small things.

Growing up there were so many options to choose from. They had the Zebra Gum, Bubblicious ( my personal favorite, especially watermelon), Bubble Jugs, Gum balls, Bubble Tape (I had a weird habit of always swallowing this kind of gum, and going through the roll in a matter of hours), The gum in the band aids box, double bubble, and so many others.

I was always excited when I was able to have some of the specialty kinds. They had gum that was in the shape of checks, or bills. The gum was thick strips of original flavored bubble gum in a small package.

I remember that I didn't get this kind of gum very often but when I did it was very exciting. I don't think I was ever able to chew a pack by myself though. I have a very distinct memory of being in the kitchen in Woodland Hills, and having Kenny try and convince me to give him a check of gum (there were only like 3 checks in a package). I did not want to share! When I got this gum I wanted to save it for as long as a could, and I did not want to have to give him a whole piece. I was willing to give him a piece but not a whole check.

I lost the battle of having the gum all to myself. Kenny threatened to never be my friend again, and as it was I was so scared of that actually happening that he ended up with a whole check of my gum....Kenny won a lot of arguments that way.

When I was younger the Wrigley gum was the grown up kind of gum. Mom always had the dark blue kind. She always had that gum in her scripture case at church, and without fail I would ask for a piece every Sunday. My siblings would be annoyed, and I am sure Mom was too, but she gave me a piece anyways.

My favorite grown up gum was any kind of cinnamon gum. I think it was cinnamon because it was my dad's favorite. My dad loves cinnamon, and I wanted to have something the same. So, I think subconsciously cinnamon became my favorite.

Aunt Ellen (lee) always gave me gum when I saw her. I remember we were gum buddies. I wonder if she even remembers that. Probably not- I knew she would give me gum if I asked for it. So, I probably just tagged her has my gum buddy.

........

I still like gum but I actually rarely chew it anymore..hmm?

My Dad!!

2010-11-13T21:20:00.000-08:00

So, I love my Dad! This past week I went and took some pictures for Dad at work. It wasn't anything big but I had a good time doing it. I had lunch with Dad and his guys afterwards and overall it was a fun morning.

As I was going back through all my pictures of the day I found this gem. I told Dad to look happy in his picture because the previous 6 or so were very serious faces. This was the result. I love this picture. Every time I see it, it makes me smile and think of how much I love my Dad.

There is plenty I could talk about of why I love him and all that great stuff, but I wanted to keep it simple this time.

PS. My favorite part of the entire session was the picture taken just after this one. I was laughing at the picture from above, and so I tried to explain to him that I was looking for just a pleasant smile but not a big grin. I told him to just think of mom, and the face that followed was the perfect sweet smile. It was the smile I was looking for, and the one that I ended up using.

THE END

Halloween Weekend!

2010-11-01T23:25:00.000-07:00

My Halloween weekend actually had very little Halloweeness to it. It was still a lot of fun though!

There was a big stake Dance on Friday, but it didn't sound appealing to me at all. Luckily Tyler doesn't like dances either. So, we spent the evening having Cafe Rio and watching Finding Nemo.

Saturday was so much fun. We (Me and Jenny) planned a group date. Because we were setting our friend, Trent up on a date it ended up with the girls being in charge. I came up with the idea of having it a kids themed night. :) We made homemade pizza, played with play-dough (homemade mind you), made a giant fort in our family room, and watched sword in the stone.

Me and Tyler- I don't really like this picture of me but I still like the picture.

This is mine and Tyler's Play-dough creation. It's a duck pond...use your imagination to fill in the gaps.

The whole gang in our fort!

I only wore the costume for a few hours cause I didn't end up going to the party on Friday.

Me and my beautiful roommate Jenny! ps. you can totally see my purple hair!

How cute is He!?

2010-10-25T17:04:00.000-07:00

After being at school all day I came home to find these beautiful flowers and a note on my kitchen counter. Totally made my day! I have the cutest boyfriend ever!

Not to mention, today was just one of those days where I wanted to throw my computer out the window and stop working on my homework altogether.

I have a new Camera!!

2010-10-12T23:39:00.000-07:00

I have a new Camera and am ready to take pictures! Please help me spread the word that I can do family pictures! My website will be up in the next day or two! :) I'll direct you there soon!

I absolutely love my camera. I have a Canon 7D! It's pretty much awesome. woohoo!

Yep I love the quality, the camera, and of course this little girl!

Interview Assignment

2010-10-06T13:53:00.000-07:00

I'm a fish!

2010-09-29T23:46:00.000-07:00

Okay okay! I appreciate the love and concern towards me, but I promise I really am fine. The last post had nothing to do with any specific people. I actually have absolutely zero hard feelings about said person. The post was a vent of frustration. So, as much I love the concern there is no need to go breaking down anyone's door.
If I take the dating aspect out of my life, I can honestly say that my life is pretty dern good :) School has been fun and a bit of a challenge but not bad. I have really enjoyed my classes, and want to have more time to excel in them and learn more.
I LOVE MY WARD!! I have met some great people in my ward this year, and am really enjoying the friendships I have been making. I also have an amazing bishop. I can tell this is going to be an amazing year.
I am really enjoying my time back at the portrait studio. There are just a few of us on staff but it's actually really nice that way!
OH, I am also saving up to buy my camera. I am going to take my time in the process of getting it so I can get the best deal possible but I am going to be passing out flyers soon to advertise family pictures...SO, if you know anyone send them my way. I will have my website up soon so I can show my work.
Thanks for the love and concern from you all. Don't worry about whether I am happy or not. I truly am.

Victoria Place #56

2010-09-20T23:30:00.000-07:00

So, i was going to continue my whole blog a day thing but I didn't really care, and some of the questions were lame. SO.. UPDATE!!!
Life for me has been kinda crazy but good. I love my apartment and have really had an amazing time with my roommates, and my new ward. I live with Jenny Jones, Becca Jones, and Cosette Stone. I have been best friends with Jenny since children's choir and LOVE living with her. Becca and Cosette are so cute, and funny. They are both freshman- it is very fun and entertaining to watch them experience life as a college student.
Anyways, tonight we created an apartment plan (suggested by my bishop). Pretty much a set of rules we have together. As we had our meeting we of course had to take some roommie pictures!

My room roommate who I love dearly, Jenny Jones.

Cosette, Becca, Me, and Jenny

Some one is ALWAYs laughing in my apt.

We were pretending that we could be sweet.

Days Ten-Thirteen

2010-09-13T08:04:00.000-07:00

September 10- Picture taken over ten years ago:

September 11- A photo of you recently: This picture was taken two days ago for my dear friend Marz in memory of our quesadilla nights.

September 12- Your favorite outfit:
I love a good pair of jeans with a shirt that is cute and flattering that doesn't make you look like you tried too hard. I have a specific outfit but I don't care to blog about it. so...NEXT!

September 13- Something I am OCD about:
CHEWING WITH YOU MOUTH OPEN!! I don't think there is anything that I am more annul about than people chewing with there mouth open. I don't want to hear the spit in your mouth or anything for that matter. Most often I can let stuff slide but this one irritates me so bad. There are other things that I am OCD about but that is pretty much it.

Days One - Nine

2010-09-09T17:48:00.000-07:00

September 1, 2010 Favorite song:
By far my favorite song of all time "Out of My League", Stephen Speaks

September 2, 2010: Favorite Movie:
"While You Were Sleeping" I have a lot but this is one is probably number one!

September 3, 2010 Favorite TV show:
I don't watch TV very much but "The community" is pretty funny.

September 4, 2010 Favorite Book:
Other than church stuff I really like the book "Beauty", and "Secret Journal"...and well I am a nerd and really like Anita Stansfield books.

September 5, 2010 Favorite quote:

"Trust in the lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy path." - I know it's a scripture but I LOVE IT!

and on a lighthearted note- "You don't have to be crazy to be my friend..but it sure does help"

Septemeber 6- 20 of my favorite things.
Mom and Dad
Siblings
My girl friends
My roommates
The gospel
PRAYER
Photography
School
My best friend
Cool cousins
Nieces and nephews
Memories-my brain
The Book of Mormon
Meeting new people
My camera
Nature-light-clouds
Technology
Food
My ward
Music

September 7- a picture that makes you happy:
I can't help but smile when I see this picture- Not only was this night crazy fun but it made me grateful for the time that I have been able to have as a single college student. I know I wouldn't have had these awesome times if I had gotten married.

September 8, 2010- a picture that makes you angry or sad:
Yeah I am sad that my Amy is gone! ..and well I felt a lot more stupid than angry when I dyed my hair blond.

September 9, 2010 A picture you took:

Month of September

2010-09-09T17:40:00.000-07:00

OH hey guys! So, it's been a little while but I decided to catch up. My friend Amanda had this cool idea on her blog and I wanted to do the same thing. So, I'll catch up on the days that I missed but for the next month I will be having these updates.

Day 1 - your favorite song

Day 2 - your favorite movie

Day 3 - your favorite television program

Day 4 - your favorite book

Day 5 - your favorite quote

Day 6 - 20 of my favorite things

Day 7 - a photo that makes you happy

Day 8 - a photo that makes you angry/sad

Day 9 - a photo you took

Day 10 - a photo taken over 10 years ago of you

Day 11 - a photo of you recently

Day 12 - something you are OCD about

Day 13 - your favorite outfit.

Day 14 - your favorite shoes

Day 15 - your dream house

Day 16 - a song that makes you cry (or nearly)

Day 17 - an art piece (drawing, sculpture, painting, etc)

Day 18 - my wedding/future wedding/past wedding

Day 19 - a talent of yours

Day 20 - a hobby of yours

Day 21 - a recipe

Day 22 - a website

Day 23 - a youtube video

Day 24 - where I live

Day 25 - your day, in great detail

Day 26 - your week, in great detail

Day 27 - my worst habit

Day 28 - whats in my handbag/purse

Day 29 - hopes,dreams and plans for the next 365 days

Day 30 - a dream for the future

My Best Friends Wedding

2010-08-15T23:10:00.000-07:00

Another one of my best friends got married this past weekend. Cheryl Carter is now Cheryl Holdaway. I am so excited for her!
This past weekend was dedicated to her. I was her maid of honor and her photographer (doing both was a STUPID idea). I wanted to spend time as her maid of honor, and party but I was taking pictures. Brides maid pictures, and the bouquet toss for example are both very difficult to do when you have two jobs to be preforming. All the same it was a wonderful weekend.
At her wedding luncheon I was asked to give a speech. I have never done one before; so, that was interesting. I was glad I was able to do that though; I think it went well. Although, I started getting choked up and crying as I was talking about our friendship, and how Clarke is a lucky guy to find someone like her.
So, I am very happy for Cheryl, and am so grateful that she has been one of my best friends through pretty much my whole life!

Down in Africa

2010-07-19T02:49:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone,

I am still alive and still loving this place.

If you have checked my facebook I have added some more pictures of our fun adventures. I posted last Saturday but Sunday could have been a post in and of it's self. After church we headed to Okapuka Ranch and had lunch with the rector and vice rector. The presidents of the school. It was good food, and company. After lunch we went on our mini safari! We saw warthogs, springbok, kudu, oryx, giraffes, rhinos, birds, crocs, and other animals. I was in heaven! The temperature was perfect and I was having a blast taking pictures. Check out my facebook for a SMALL few of the pictures.

After our safari we went to a sports bar called Primi's to watch the world cup finale. It was a ton of fun! The energy in the room was awesome.

This last week was a bit slow. We had a lot of work planned out but a lot of things fell through, and so sometimes I was really bored. When I was working I was having a lot of fun. I got some good direction on the book that I am in charge of. My professor and I (and Richard) hammered out an outline, and I am really excited for my project. When I was asking my professor some questions about what I should do he pretty much gave me a pep talk that this is my project and I am completely in charge of it. He told me to have the confidence that I can do it, and take control; I don't to need to worry about the other group members. It was a really good motivation to make the book!

We have also been working on our documentary. It's been a bit stressful, but I think it will turn out really good. The tension around here has been pretty high. We are around each other all the time, and so we are all starting to go a little nuts.

This next week will be really busy. We have three workshops starting tomorrow, and then we head up north early Friday morning. I will be taking pictures NONSTOP!! WOOHOO!!

Oh and by the way, the food here is amazing and bad all in one yummy bundle. I am LOVE the food but I am pretty sure I have gained maybe 10lbs in a month! GAH!

Anyways, life is good. I'll talk to you all soon. (maybe)

African update!

2010-07-10T12:12:00.000-07:00

My African Update

For those of you who want just a quick update- Life here is great, and I am having the time of my life. The picture is of our excursion to learn more about the bushman/san people. The people who just live off the desert- (The Gods Must Be Crazy). yep the guy on the right had full butt exposure, and the other two were pretty close.

Disclaimer-This is REALLY LONG. I won't be offended if you don't want to read it all, or you only read it a bit at a time, but I thought I should write and update you all. ALSO!!! check my facebook to see a small selection of pictures.

Now, a little bit more details- It has almost been two weeks since I left and it is still crazy to believe that I am actually here. It will randomly just hit me that I am in Africa, and not in the US. It's been great.

-1st week-

We spent about 36 hours in London on our way to Namibia to help break up the trip. I had a blast. I had to get used to traveling with guys though. They want to make it from point A to point B; which makes it very difficult to try and take pictures of everything. I am getting better at going fast though. The architecture is beautiful. I want to go back and take my time taking pictures and enjoy all of England.

When we got into Namibia we weren't able to get to work right away so we just relaxed and spent time in the city and with friends here. On our tour of the city we went to Katoutura (translated-the place we don't want). We went to the market there and I was able to get some great pictures there of the people and some kids. I don't think Richard enjoyed it as much as he could have though. He was paranoid about me most the time.

That same day we went to the informal settlements. It's where the people live in very small tin shacks. They have basically nothing. It was incredible to see the kids still smiling even though they live in horrible situations. It was a really cool experience to be there. We are going to go there again; which I am very excited for- I want some better pictures. The guesstimate is that 250,000 people live here.

Church here was really cool. It was fun to see that the gospel is still the same no matter where you are even when the people/culture are very different. It was testimony meeting too. So, we were able to here there testimonies.

-2nd week-

This week we have had more chances to get to work. The Audio boys were able to get into the archives and do what they do. I have been documenting that as well as other parts of the archives. I have been taking pictures of the glass plates, the negatives, the containers they are in, as well as the different conditions that they (the neg, and glass plates) are in. I have also been working on sorting the pictures I have taken so far and what pictures should be included in the book for the school.

We have met some AMAZING people while we have been here. The vice principal to the school and her two daughters are amazing and we have had dinner with them several times and have had a great time with them. There is also this crazy awesome guy named Jochan. He kinda reminds me of Dennis. He has so much stuff. His stuff is more organized though. He has over 300 cameras (one of them is worth $40,000), and over 11 VW bugs or vans. We had dinner with him and his family this week. SO much fun; his house is a museum! I don't even know how to describe him. I will show videos of him when I get home so you will understand!

-My experience-

I have been having so much fun taking pictures here. I am the main photographer here, and director of photography. It's been fun having people ask me questions and actually knowing the answers. But the photography here is HARD. It is really bright here, and the people are dark. It makes it really difficult to take a correctly exposed picture. There were a good load of pictures from the first days that were blown out and not good. My professor has been encouraging and told me not to worry about it. Apparently all the student have a couple days of adjustment when they get here.

He also advised me to not look at the pictures until the very end. I can make sure the exposure is right every once in a while, but he said don't look at any of the pictures till the end of the shoot. It is a good exercise to trust your instincts and just do what you think is right. It will help in relaxing and taking better pictures. So, I did that today- I turned the back screen off and just took the pictures. They turned out pretty good. It still is hard with the harsh lighting and dark people but overall I am getting better :)

OH and of course we have been watching the world cup while we are here which has been really fun. The last few games we have gone to this sports bar called Primi's and have had a blast spending time with the jam packed restaurant.

Anyways, this is already REALLY long, but so much is going on and I have already cut out a ton. So, I'll hopefully post more frequently so they are shorter post.

OH and ps...the little kids here are adorable. I can't even handle it. There are a lot of really beautiful people here-and attractive men ;) ha ha

jumpaditty jumpaditty jump jump jump jump jump

2010-06-16T09:58:00.000-07:00

Sunday afternoons are one of my favorite days of the week. Two Sundays ago I headed up the canyon with my roommate Aubrie and cousin Brooke. We kinda got distracted with how fun jumping/actions shots were.

The facial expressions are the best part. So you have to make it big.

Summer Cookin

2010-05-23T17:32:00.000-07:00

So this summer has been so much fun so far. The combination of girls is one of the best I have had. We all mesh well. There are weird quarks but that is bound to happen with six girls in the apartment. Oh and the apartment is pretty big which is awesome! I love it!!

Anyways, in our apartment we all love to cook! The other night Brooke and I decided we should make dinner. It went from trying to think of something easy to a huge yummy feast of fried food. We went to the grocery store to get a few items, and it turned into four of us getting random stuff and making great food.

I love living with these two!! We do stuff all the time- we even sang in church today.

The dinner included: Wantons, garlic sesame seed chicken nuggets and ginger sauce, potato wedges, Brazilian Limeade, Fruit Gratan, orange slices, and green beans....oh and nutella filled wantons, and a few with berries.

The cooks!

Ha ha Love us! Nikki, me, Brooke, and Leah!-- Our friend David Dzado took this picture for us. He came over to visit at just the right time and ate with us. Two other boys came over too. One guy came over to say hi, and shortly after he left his roommate who we hadn't met yet came over and told us that he was instructed to come over.

AFRICA!!!

2010-05-14T00:21:00.000-07:00

I AM GOING TO AFRICA!!!!!!...Thanks Richie!

Summer Lovin'

2010-05-05T17:04:00.001-07:00

I can already tell this is going to be an amazing summer! I am living with Brooke and Nikki, along with 3 other fun girls. I have met and made more friends in two days of church stuff than I did all last semester. I have already made some friends that I think are going to be amazing friends this summer.

I also realized that this is the first summer in 3 years that I haven't had to deal with a break up. I am going to be able to enjoy the entire summer without the desire for school to start to distract me. Happy Days :D

I have been searching for a job, and got hired at Los Hermanos but for some reason it didn't feel right. I was really torn- If I took the job I would be getting the hours needed, but if I would have to quit Goodwood; which would be really sad because I love it! Well, I went into Goodwood today to do a delivery, and my boss told me to start studying the menu test because I would start training for serving! YAY!! I am really happy about this! I can stay at the place I really enjoy!

Photography is good too!....LIFE IS GOOD!!!

Oh My Life

2010-04-26T23:27:00.000-07:00

There is so much going on that I want to update about but I don't want this post to be a novel! Here are some highlights!

School
In two days I will finish my first semester at UVU and my THIRD year of college. I don't feel old enough to be in this stage of life. Looking back at this last semester I am still very happy with my decision to switch. I am also glad that I switched schools when I did. I have made some key connections that I feel will really help me in my photography and what I want to be doing with my life.

Grades-
I was so close to getting my 4.0 this semester. My web design class was the determining factor. I had a high B in the class, and if I was able to pull of an A on my final exam and project it would tip the scale and I would be set. Well, I got an 82% on my final exam. I don't think I have ever been so bothered with getting a “B” on a test. I was close to the 4.0 though. I guess that is good enough though It's the best semester in college yet.

-I posted some of my final project down below!

UVU vs. USU-
I am still an Aggie at heart, and will always love Logan and that school. UVU is a good school, and I really enjoy what I am learning, but it doesn't have the same atmosphere/mood that USU has. I miss Logan and my life there, but I am happy where I am.

Photography-
I am learning so so much. I have been shadowing my teacher who is VERY smart and talented. I have absolutely loved it. I shadowed him last week for a wedding and a senior pictures shoot, and he paid me fifty bucks! He is also going to have me help him this summer on senior pictures. SO excited. Life is real good in this area. I still have a long ways to go but I am ready for it.

Living-
I am moving into my summer apt tomorrow! I will be living with Brooke and Nikki. Happy days!

Work-
I am looking for a job again. Goodwood kinda worked but it isn't going to be enough. So, I am looking for another job! Any ideas?

So, it is still kind of a novel, but this is the shortened version. I still have more I could write about, but I am guessing more than half of you are really only going to skim over the post anyway. So, life is good, and I am just trucking along :)

PS- I love our family, and I appreciate the advice I am given. I am not saying that having opinions is bad. Most often I really do want to know what people opinions are. It's when I have made a decision that I feel is right, and people try to convince me to do other wise. I know everyone is really just trying to help me out. So, I am not saying I don't want it. It is when I get different advice from everyone it starts to add up and it's a lot. LOVE you all :)

Final Photography Project

2010-04-26T23:25:00.001-07:00

For my final in my photography class I was supposed to create a story in 3-5 images! Keira was a sweetie and helped me out. She's a cute little model!

Photo Story- A Daisy's Story!

2010-04-26T23:11:00.000-07:00

This is another Photo Story that I am turning in for extra credit.

Let us relish life as we live it, find joy in the journey, and share our love with friends and family.

2010-04-13T12:39:00.000-07:00

Yeseterday- I wouldn't say that yesterday was a terrible day and I am in a horrible mood, but it wasn't really all that great either. Different trials are going on in my life and I am trying to stay happy through them. There are also the trials that I thought were berried and gone, but are now, not just surfacing, but are completely up and dancing around in the front of my mind.

In addition to all of that, I was reading my friends blog earlier today, and she was telling her story about how her fiancé purposed to her and how it hurt so much while he was gone (mission). As I was reading this I was happy for her, but I also felt sick and anxious. While I was bummed out, and trying to get focused again I came across her next post, and I decided how I wanted to react to the hard things and trials in my life now!

WHAT I LOVE ABOUT MY LIFE RIGHT NOW!!!

-not in order-

Mom and Dad: They are always awesome but these last few months they have really helped me out.

Siblings: Even though the family is as opinionated as they come I know that they all have my best interest at heart. I got pretty Lucky with the family I was given, and I love them.

Friends: I have some pretty AWESOME friends! I don't get to see all of them, but they are great friends all the same.

School: I absolutely love my major. I will hopefully be getting my first 4.0 in college this semester. There are some classes that really don't apply to what I want to be doing, but I still really enjoy them.

Photography: I have already learned so much in the last three months. It makes me excited to see where it will go.

Provo: Even though I hated the idea of living in Provo again. I have really enjoyed being close the family I have down here. I have also met a lot of great people here.

LOVE LOVE LOVE

The sunshine

Rain

Pip-my roommate this semester

Living with cousins this summer

Jenny Jones- My roommate next year

Old and New FRIENDS

The Gospel, and it's comfort and guidance

The Temple

Missionaries

Utah State/Logan- and everything that goes with it. (MISS IT!)

FoooD

Spring and the warming weather.

My CLASSES

ART/Creativity

Being SINGLE- It's a love hate relationship. As much as I HATE it, I might as well LOVE it while I am in it..it's a work in progress.

My CaMeRA

Phones

....and well there are tons more things that I could talk about but this is just a FEW of the great things in my LIFE!!!

“Let us relish life as we live it, find joy in the journey, and share our love with friends and family.” President Monson.

My Video Assignment

2010-03-26T08:39:00.000-07:00

I can't figure out how to upload it, but check it out! I worked forever on it- Betsy and Richard helped! My friends sure did save me though. They were my models!

My VIDEO!!!

So tell me what you think!

Ode to Amy

2010-03-03T16:18:00.000-08:00

So, Amy went into the MTC today! She is going to be serving in the Arkansas, little rock mission! She is going to be an amazing missionary. She has been one of my very best friends for almost six years. These last couple years is when we got the closest and actually started to really get along ha ha. I am sure going to miss her!

Utah State Game- 2008

May 2007- Sadie Hawkins

Fall 2009- Crazy Amigos

Senior Girls- Spring 2009

Car Crash Picture- Stolen idea from the cousins. Dec 2006

Ah ha ha summer 2007

School year 2004-2005

October 2004

September 2004- Our first picture of the three of us. The very beginning of the friendship!

Amy's Farewell Photoshoot

2010-03-02T11:18:00.000-08:00

Fun Night!- Haiti Movie!

2010-02-19T08:45:00.000-08:00

So, a few days ago after class I headed to Jimmy's house in Spanish Fork. Ever since we became friends several years ago I have made him some kind of dessert for his birthday. Well, because I was unable to do that while he was on his mission I wanted to make it up to him. We decided it would be more fun if we made something together. For the fun of it we decided to make something we had never made before. I have always wanted to make orange rolls (they are kinda like cinnamon rolls but with orange instead). SO OH MY WORD, THEY TURNED OUT YUMMY! I highly suggest you make them. We didn't want to make them the same shape as cinnamon rolls.

http://allrecipes.com//Recipe/Grandmas-Orange-Rolls

ALSO!!! While I was hanging out with Jimmy he showed me this wonderful music video dedicated to the people in Haiti! WATCH IT!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Glny4jSciVI

I went to work on another photo assignment at Brooke and Nikki's yesterday. I am pretty excited to live with them this summer. With Brooke interested in Photography as well, I am very excited for our many photoshoots this summer!

Why I love my camera!

2010-02-10T09:41:00.000-08:00

Stop action assignement

You think I like change?

2010-02-08T23:34:00.000-08:00

SO! I have gone through SO many different hair colors, hair lengths, and bangs. I was looking through some pictures, and I was surprised at how many different looks I have done. I compiled just a few of the different styles from the last 3!! years.

If you want to help me pick out which ones you like the most I can have some more opinions on what to do with my hair. I know some of the colors or lengths repeat, but the ones that do repeat are showing some other style.

Which hair color do you like the most? (Seven and I believe ten are my natural color)
Which bangs to you like the best? (strait across, long swoop, short swoop, or none)
which hair length? (I am growing it out for now, but for future reference which ones do you like and dislike)

Click on the picture do get a better look. :)

Home

2010-02-04T11:07:00.000-08:00

Photo shoots

2010-01-29T23:25:00.000-08:00

I have been having so much fun taking pictures. I have updated my blog if you would like to see!...These are also just few that I took last week when it snowed real hard! These were all taken around midnight. (I didn't have a tripod so forgive the blur on some). I think the first one is my favorite, although I like them all.

Digital Essentials

2010-01-21T14:49:00.000-08:00

SO I love my new major. In my digital essentials class I was required to replicate a picture. This is the picture I did. .... 89 layers later.....

Long Two Weeks

2010-01-19T10:48:00.001-08:00

WoW!! It's only been two weeks since my life got completely flipped around. According to my last post I had the intention of staying in Logan for the remainder of the school year, and then make the switch. Well, that didn't happen. There is no question of where God wants me.
I made the decision to start school at UVU right away, if possible. With all that needed to be done with my schooling I needed to get started right away. Thanks to God, Richard, and Mom and Dad I am now going to school at UVU.
EVERYTHING that needed to work out, did!
-I got excepted to UVU in a day and a half.
-My finacial aid was updated to UVU in less than 24 hrs- It was supposed to take 5 business days.
-I sold my housing contract within an hour of trying.
-I got signed into 16 credits worth of closed classes.
-Any extra paperwork went through very smoothly.
-I needed to find a good place to live for the remainder of the year.
...there is more but I can't remember it all.
All of this happened in a THREE day period of time. That is completely unbelievable. I also got my loans accepted for UVU on Saturday!

So I am living at Glenwood here in Provo with some great roommates. I even share a room. My room roommate is Pip, she is awesome! I take the bus to school everyday, and am finally calming down enough to really start enjoying myself.

My classes are absolutely AMAZING! I don't want to miss class now because what I will learn is something I don't want to miss. I go to class now because I enjoy it, not because I need to pass.

My favorite class right now is Digital Photography. My teacher is not a professor. He is a professional photographer who has been doing work for the last fourty years. So, he really knows what he is talking about. I decided this was something I needed to take full advantage of. I asked him how I should go about shadowing someone, and he offered to let me shadow him on his shoots anytime. OR, come to his studio and learn lighting :)!!!!! How awesome is that!
I actually went on a shoot with him and his partner this last saturday, and spent 6 hours talking photography and all that I need to learn!

SO LIFE IS GOOD!!!- with all that has happened these last two weeks it feels like it has been so much longer than that.

Think Green!

2010-01-02T10:52:00.000-08:00

No, this post is not about being environmentally friendly. "SAVE THE TREES" :) he he just in case you forgot, I am still funny! ha ha anywho, this post is about all the crazy life changes that will be affecting my life in so many ways. This is a long one so you can understand WHY I am doing what I am doing.
I have been attending Utah these last 2 1/2 years and have absolutely loved every aspect of it. I love the campus, the Aggies, basketball games, being close to DeAnna, Logan, the overall feel of being a student there, all of my amazing friends, and my ward... The only thing that I have wanted to change was my major.
I have been debating for a long time now whether I want to major in FCSE. I have had a hard time having the motivation to get good grades when I don't really care about what I am doing! I really enjoy the subject that I would be teaching but I don't really want to be a teacher! I have wanted to change for about a year now but I didn't want to switch for several reasons. I didn't want it to take longer to graduate, and my major is a very practical/stable major.
For the last year or so whenever Richard would talk about his classes I would be very envious. They sounded exactly like what I wanted to be doing. The other night Richard and I were talking about how awesome his classes were. By the end (ish) of the conversation I decided that this was something that I really wanted to be doing. I would major in Digital Media Cinema- both film and photography! How freaking awesome is that!
BUT... Utah State doesn't have this major or anything close to it. Their photography program is a ton of art classes with photography as an emphasis. That is not what I wanted. So, making the decision to major in DMC means I have to switch to UVU. I don't really care for UVU and as mentioned above I absolutely love Logan.
I have been completely torn. I love love love where I am at and my friends, but I would much rather be doing what I really enjoy doing. I love photography, but have a lot of work to do to get really good (which is the goal right). I want to take the classes that will really help me accomplish those goals.
So, after prayer and planning I have decided to start school in the summer or the fall at UVU. I would switch down immediately but I have already paid my rent for the rest of the year and cannot get out of it. I will also just be working this semester, and not going to school. I am finished with my generals and can't really send any credits for my major down. So, here I am. I wish I could start school now because if I started this semester I would have 4 semesters left. But even starting next fall I will graduate the spring of 2012; which would be the same as my education major (and that is with a semester off). $2,400 saved for the lack of semester! So I will just work as much as I can, hopefully save up for some equipment that will be nice to have, and get ready for this next semester!

Another One Bites the Dust

2009-12-20T13:30:00.000-08:00

So one of my best friends from high school got married yesterday. It was so good to see her, and see how happy she was. That makes more than half of us married; WOW!! This summer is going to be an interesting one when I come home. Both Jess' are married, Kylie is married, and Amy is going to be on here mission. Let's hope I can find some kind of social life. ANYWAYS, I am so happy for Kylie! I was reading through my journal of all our fun time, and it makes me so glad I have such great memories!

Before the reception the girls all went out to Olive Garden for a fun girls night out!

Park City-Temple Square

2009-12-15T16:25:00.000-08:00

To celebrate the end of the semester my roommate and I got some friends together for a fun get away to park city!!
We started the trip by going to temple square, and enjoying the lights! We spent the weekend eating great food, talking till early hours of the morning, playing in the snow, shopping, and tons more. For my lack of desire to give too many details, I'm not. The pictures will give a good enough idea :)... Oh we did play smear the queer. That is a really fun game. The boys had no mercy tackling us because of the snow. I am still sore and it's four days later. SO much fun!

On Monday I went to temple square we went to temple square with a small part of the family. It was a wonderful weekend!

This is by far my favorite picture of the two trips to temple square!! :)
I love the temple!

This is a picture of the gang! I am actually taking this picture...There is Me, Melissa, Brant, PJ James, Janae, and Brad down below. I didn't really know these guys before we went on our trip but I had so much fun with all of them. It was kinda sad cause PJ has a girl, Brant might have one (which is the saddest). Anyways! I had a blast!

Kenny and Jamile!

The Couples!

Because I am not a couple yet I was repeatedly left out. So, Dad told me he would take a picture with me. So, I got a picture with Kenny and Dad! That really did help me feel better about being the single one. :)

Highlight of Fall Semester

2009-12-07T21:14:00.000-08:00

The semester is over in 3 days!! Three more finals and I will be half way done with my third year of college. This semester has seriously flown by! It really has been so much fun and overall a wonderful fall...since my last posts here are a few highlights!~

Game nights at my apartment are always fun! This game is a winner~!

Aggie basketball games are probably the funnest thing we have here. This particular game was against BYU. We kicked their trash! People seriously camped out overnight to guarantee good seats. The spectrum was packed (they had to turn away a TON of people). So the energy in their was AMAZING. I have never been to such a fun game.

I started cutting my friends hair. You can't tell but I did a really good job. I was scared to death to have them trust me, but Chris had me come back and cut it for a second time. That's a good sign I would say.

This was the last football game of the season. It was freezing cold, we did terrible, the broncos cheered louder than we did, and lexi and I left at half time cause we were freezing.

Halloween was a lot of fun! Me and Lexi!

One of the shifts of people that came to our party. My roommates and I decided we would throw our own party because we didn't want to go to the one put on by the school. It turned out great. We had a ton of people come. (there are more pictures but these are just the highlights)

The main girls at the party.

I was a fish. I know you can't really tell, but this is my fin on top of my head!

I love this picture!

I have been getting all crafty lately. I painted this chair (it's a cute dark pink now, not this creepy half painted one) for my photography stuff. I need a fun chair! AND thanks to photoshop I can change the color accordingly if necessary

I also finally got some decorations up on the walls. I got some cool frames, painted them all accordingly, and now they look great in the family room!

So, there are a few little updates. Nothing real detailed, but I will hopefully post more frequently next semster and I can give better details of my life here in Logan!!!

Kyle and Cheli's Engagements

2009-10-28T17:37:00.001-07:00

Hey go to my photography blog and check out Kyle and chelsi's engagements :) Just click on the picuture.

photo shoot of me

2009-10-18T14:51:00.000-07:00

So, I couldn't wait any longer to get my hair cut. It was driving me crazy! So, while I was taking some mission pictures for Amy, she took a few of me with the new do. So here ya go!

Homecoming!

2009-09-26T12:03:00.001-07:00

I went to Homecoming this year, and had an absolute blast! I went with my good friend Brad. I met him at the beginning of last year and I have worked with him since then. We went as friends and nothing more. So, there is nothing to report there.

Okay, so he picked me up at my apartment, and we hurried over to the bluebird where we had dinner with 4 other couples. I didn't really know anyone there so we just talked the whole time. So, dinner was enjoyable. It was funny though cause the waiter was extra friendly to just me. He was nice to everyone but he kept complimenting me on my dress, along with other funny comments. he he

After dinner we went to the dance which was half stag, half couples. It was kind of weird. What you were supposed to do was dress up in a certain decade and come. So, about half the people were dressed up nice and the other half weren't. It was weird! To go along with the theme, "Here There and Everywhere. Once an Aggie, always an Aggie," they had different kinds of music in different parts of the TSC. They had a big band swing room, country western room, futuristic room, and 80's 90's and now room. So it was fun going to different places. Anyways, as you all know I am a terrible dancer but I still had a ton of fun. I am very glad Brad was my date cause I didn't feel so stupid!

So, after we were done dancing the boys (just two now) had planned a little surprise activity for us. They gave us a riddle, and we had to go find that spot to get the next clue. After going to several different places around campus we made it to our final destination. We didn't find another clue, but over under some trees on the grass there was a table set up with some chairs. They had brownies, ice cream and candles all set up! There was no one on this part of campus. So, it was a lot of fun having a little adventure. The boys were great!

After our dessert, the other couple decided to head over to true aggie night, and Brad brought me home. It was a great night!

Stitches, Crazy Amigos, Cinnamon Rolls, Photography, and True Aggie

2009-09-13T20:51:00.000-07:00

Check out alishiasphotography.blogspot.com I have added TONS of new posts!- I have two more weddings lined up! Woohoo

So, I think my life is pretty boring but then when I think about it I realize I have had a lot going on. Last Friday I spent the night with my crazy friends. Brad, Amy, Lexi, and Melissa. We watched the three amigos, and had Vanilla Creams.

By the end of the night Melissa and I bailed, and headed up to True Aggie Night. My intent for going was to support Melissa in becoming a true aggie. Before we left I made it clear that I was NOT going to kiss anyone there. As we were standing up by the “A” Melissa, and her best friend (and kiss) were trying to tell me that I should just go up with someone. I didn't want to go find some random person to kiss. Well as I was arguing my point a cute boy walked by and asked me if I needed to go up there. “Uh...” Both Melissa and Anthony said yes. The cute boy grabbed my hand, and guided to me to the “A”. Yes, I became a True Aggie, and I did find out his name was Jessie. Yeah...

Saturday was a great girls night. We went and had dessert at Ruby Tuesday, and did face masks.

Monday I made my roommates dinner and made my very first batch of cinnamon rolls. They actually turned out really well. The pan was gone really fast. I invited two boys, which led to a total of 6 boys and 4 girls. It was a ton of fun.

Now for my exciting story to the hospital.

I woke up Thursday morning and kept reminding myself that it was going to be a good day! I took my test, stayed happy, and headed to work. When I arrived at work I realized we were short staffed and I was working solo in sweet streets. So as I was cutting some pineapple with a dull knife the knife slid of the fruit inserting itself into the side of my knuckle. Ah crap! I grabbed a paper towel and headed to the back kitchen. As I was trying to stop the bleeding several of my managers and head boss came to take a look.

Through out this whole mess I started feeling really queasy and light headed. So I sat down while I filled out some paper work, and it was decided I need to go to the hospital to get a tetanus shot. After getting some food in my stomach we headed to the hospital. After getting my shot the doctor came in to examine my finger. He decided that it would be best to give me stitches and let me leave.

He gave me three shots in my finger which hurt like dickens (I am not sure what the dickens feel like but it still really hurt). Which was followed by four stitches in my knuckle. It didn't really start hurting till last night when the numbing wore off, but since then it has been pretty painful. Oh well I'll live.

So, I have now had stitches! :0

Twenty Years Old!!

2009-08-11T16:09:00.000-07:00

Woohoo I am no longer a teenager!! I had a wonderful time celebrating this. The Saturday before my birthday I got together with some friends from home and had a little get together. The combination of people there was kinda weird, but I had a great time spending time with my girls and other friends as well!

On my birthday I went shopping with Mom!! That was a blast; I haven't been shopping with mom in, I don't know how long. We went to the mall, and I showed her the ring I want when I get married some day, found some awesome jewelry, and I tried on a wedding dress that is absolutely amazing. (store people don't question whether you are getting married or not when you bring your mom along) We also went to the eye doctor, and learned that my eye is fine; I just need to exercise it more.

Because I wasn't in Logan for my birthday I didn't get to celebrate with my friends up here. I wasn't planning on doing anything though. I would have felt awkward throwing myself a party to celebrate me. So, I was going to just not do anything. Well my roommate melissa didnt' like that idea and threw a party for me. I was kinda nervous at first because I wasn't sure how it was going to turn out. But, I had a blast. We had cake and ice cream, played night games, had a music video dance party, and watched a movie. We had about 17 people there, and they all meshed well. So, it was a blast! Melissa was a sweetheart for doing this for me. I love her to pieces and am so glad I am living with her again.

Fiesta Days

2009-08-09T23:32:00.000-07:00

My first digital scrapbook page. It's pretty basic but I am learning! * note I took the pictures of the fireworks in the background.

2009-07-06T22:33:00.000-07:00

Chopped!

2009-06-11T21:52:00.000-07:00

What's a trip to Seattle if you don't come back looking different!
Thanks again Jenny- Much healthier!

Summer thus far!

2009-06-07T20:05:00.001-07:00

So, I guess it is time for me to blog again. DeAnna is sitting next to me on the couch doing the same thing, and I thought I might as well catch up as well!

Summer in Logan thus far has been pretty awesome. I have pretty much just working, and pretty much all of May I spent time with Casey. This last week I have been spending all my time with Melissa, Amy, and some other friends. It's been pretty different.

This past week has been a rough one. As of Tuesday, Casey and I are on "a break." After a lot of talking we are both going to be dating other people and we don't know how long this break is going to last. In my opinion I don't see us getting back together (not my choice). So, I am working on being happy and trying not to think about dating. I kinda really hate the dating game and think I will just avoid that for a while. I am not trying to complain but this all pretty much sucks!!

I did have my first wedding on Saturday. It went very well. DeAnna and I tag teamed the whole thing, and it went great. Dad gave us the great idea to have a card with the order of pictures that we would be taking and giving them to key people at the temple. It made the flow of everything run nice and smooth! I loved everything about the job. Not to mention, everyone is so happy! I would love to do this permanently. WOOhoo!! Here are a few--

ps this picture right here had a lot less flowers and a big red truck in the picture but DeAnna has skills and made this so much better!

With loving this job so much it makes me really not want to be at my current job. I am working 40 hours this next week which is great for the money, but really crappy for trying to stay sane. I will just remember that school will be so much better if I don't have to work so much through it.

Well I am sure there are other things I could share but this is getting pretty long!

Update!

2009-05-07T19:03:00.000-07:00

I am finally done with my 2nd year of college! Hooray!
Finishing up my second year of college, and seeing one of my very best friends getting married (making two married) makes me look at my life and wonder what the heck I am doing with it. I know what I ultimately want in the end, but what about everything else. I am not worried about what will happen, but it does make me look at my life now, and think about what I am doing with it.

I am currently looking for a house/basement to rent for next school year. It is a ton cheaper and that sounds great to me. If I find somewhere cheap enough, Melissa will move with me. Melissa is one of my very very best friends up here at school. We are going to be living together again for this summer!

Jess got married this last Saturday! It was a crazy weekend, but totally worth being involved for so much of it! I only cried a few times too! I have been best friends with Jess for a really long time, and I have never seen her so happy. I am excited for her! She deserves it.

Oh and, Casey is still as great as ever. We do something every day, even if it is just to hang out or do errands. I love it all! We are heading down to Provo tomorrow to pick up a book for his mom, and conveniently he gets to meet some of the family.

Me and Casey

2009-04-22T19:07:00.000-07:00

Well, life up in Logan is awesome! I am also very glad that I am going to be staying here for the summer! Pictures are better than anything...So, enjoy!

This is my favorite! I also love the effect!

Gotta love it!

Same picture as above but it's just normal.

:)

Cheese!

Yeah !!

:D

2009-04-07T20:12:00.000-07:00

My Favorite

This face isn't even close to as good as creepy as he can be!

This is Casey

Yet another creepy one!

MARY KAY!

2009-03-28T15:51:00.001-07:00

Hi Everyone,
I am planning to place a MaryKay Order again! I will placing the order at the end of April! So, check out marykay.com and find what products you are needing. To place this order I am needing to sell at least $400 worth of products. So, let your friends and family know. I can give them a 25% discount on all make up! Let me know if you have any questions, and I will be staying in touch.
My favorite Products- Eyeliner!! mascara, and their foundation. I love all of the products but those are my top three. Thanks!

TMNT Cookie!

2009-03-17T15:05:00.000-07:00

After FHE we made a really big cookie and did the coolest frosting job EVER! I wish I could take more credit but I pretty much just combined the colors, did one eye, the purple bandana things and the sewer he is standing on; Casey did the rest of it.

Please note the detail! The bowstaff is tooth picks cut and colored. The Donatello is crafted from frosting, food coloring, and peanut butter. He has the correct number of toes and fingers. And this tood a good hour to do! oh and the ninja is dead and bleeding on the side!

Casey with the cookie

This was after the fact but it works!

Our Cookie...We aren't sure what to do with it now... we can't just eat it.

ChEeSe

Pictures of my life in Logan

2009-02-25T00:12:00.001-08:00

Cafe Rio-Taco Tuesday! We have Marzzieh, Melissa, Me, Brooklyn, Ian (behind brooklyn) Amy, Heath, Casey, A guy, and Lisa.

Marzzieh, Casey, Amy, and Me!!

Roomies!

Oh it's us!

Brooklyn Marzzieh and I after we did our Painting!

That is the painting!

Jess' Pictures

2009-01-26T15:00:00.001-08:00

Hey so I just did Jess' engagement pictures. You can check out those pictures on my photography site.

alishiasphotography.blogspot.com

Holidays

2009-01-04T22:19:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures from the holidays. I don't have very many. I took a few with the kids and Little Lauren took the rest of them!

Some Things Never Change

2008-12-30T11:20:00.000-08:00

Jess, and I started our Girls night out by watching "High School Musical 3" at the dollar movie! After the awesome movie we headed to our favorite place to eat; Berry's! We recreated a lot of fun memories from high school, and had ice cream at good ol' Macey's.

Some things just never change!
This is one of my very favorites.Our Frienship in a nutshell!

It's not a night with us girls if something random doesn't happens...Like getting your car stuck in the little amount of snow that there is!

The roomies on Christmas Eve!

Laugh out Loud

2008-12-15T17:12:00.000-08:00

I thought I would give all a laugh...at my exspence. There is just a common fact that not everyone can do blond, and some just shouldn't- Especially ME!

This is me blond!

Christmas Picture, After teh color correction!

And Now I am a complete burnette!

End of The Semester

2008-12-04T21:45:00.000-08:00

I have almost made it through another semester. I only have to make it through a week of finals, and I will be done! Yay! I really have loved this semester. My classes are all great (I can say that because my math teacher go fired). This semester has gone by so fast though. It really doesn't' seem like that long ago that I was just moving in.
I have learned a lot too! I made a skirt, pants, and a shirt in my sewing class. I learned a ton of great stuff in my culinary class, and now have an awesome book of recipes! I got to experience first hand a stupid teacher being fired. AND I am most likely going to pass my history class with and A or high B! I love School!
Of course school isn't all about class. The social life this semester has been great. Last year was fun, but not in comparison to this one. My roommates are absolutely awesome; We really get involved in our ward, and have made a lot of great friends. We all get along really well too. I was worried that I would be the third wheel, because they were friends in high school, but it's not the case at all. I got really luck this year!
As for my love life...I am still single. So not much to say there. ha ha
I love my job! I work a lot, but I love what I am doing so it doesn't bother me! I am in the camera room most of the time, which is great.

As the semester has been winding down I have been kinda sad that I only have half a year with my roommates. I have also been trying to plan where I want to live over the summer and next fall. I like having and idea of what I want to do. Well, I was talking to my roommate Melissa, and we were talking about how she hasn't really put much thought into where she wants to live until her boss told her about getting an apartment/house. Melissa really liked the idea, and kept referring to how much fun "we" would have. I asked her if she would want to live together again next school year. She said she definitely would. I am so excited! I love both Melissa and Brooklyn! I also hate the mystery of who my next roommates are going to be. WOOT So, we are trying to get into an apartment/house close to campus. I am not really sure how to go about doing this though. If you have any ideas I would love to hear them. I don't know who to call or even how to find out what would be available.....Any suggestions/advise on housing ideas (even if they aren't a house/apartment)?

Well, this entry is pretty long so I should probably bring it to a close, but I am happy and loving school! YAY! :)

Being Greatful for the Simple Joys, Makes You a Happier Person!

2008-11-19T23:52:00.000-08:00

So for the last few weeks at church we have talking about everything that we should be greatful for. It has been a great couple of weeks! So, I decided to share some of the thing that I love, and am so greatful for. Some of course are simple things I am happy I have, but others mean a lot.
I have been pretty homesick lately, and I really miss everyone! With talking about what we are greatful at church, and missing everyone, I really started to thinkg.. And, I love you all! Thanks for everything! I don't think I voice how greatful I am for all that I am blessed with! I also don't say, "I love you" as much as I should. So, here is my way of expressing my love for everyone!
Yeah, I know this is all really cheesey, but it's thanksgiving. AND I am allowed to be dumb, and emotional all I want! :) I hope you guys all have a wonderful thanksgiving!
---PS- Just click on the picture, and you can see the collage of everything I love!

2008-11-12T12:55:00.001-08:00

HURRAY!! I got the Job (for more information read below) !! I am super excited! :) Oh and I was looking through my pictures and found this video that I never shared! ENJOY!

Halloween, Pie Party, Cooking, and A New Job

2008-11-08T11:03:00.000-08:00

Okay, So I haven't updated in a while! So, this is going to be a long post! A lot has happened! If you don't have time to read it then you can just look at the pictures! :) The first paragraph is really awesome though!

I have decided that I am going to work really hard next semester, and then take next fall semster off! With that decision I have been really undecided about my living arrangements, getting a different job, moving home for the summer, or really what to do with my life! I was really stressed out about the whole thing! I kept trying to make decisions, and nothing seemed to be making me feel better.
I called Sears, got my job back for Christmas, which would have been good because I could come back for the break! But, I still didn't feel good about how my life was planned out. My job for next summer and fall were not set yet. So, I decided to apply for JcPenney, because I could keep that job even after Christmas and work there next summer, and fall.
So, I went in and applied! (I also applied to kiddie kandids but it didn't like the feeling there) So! I turned my application in, and had my interview right away! The interview went REALLY well. Because of my experience they really liked me. I talked about my concerns for staying on after Christmas, and she explained to me that with my experience she was almost positive I would stay on. She also explained to me that she was hoping to hire on an assistant manager. She told me that one of her core employees would be next in line for it, but isn't sure that she will be able to handle it. So, she told me that if she doesn't take that position than it will be ME! How cool! So, everything seems to be falling into place. The relief that my life is in control is wonderful! I just have to wait for my background check to go through and go to the studio for me to put my two weeks notice in for my other job! Cool Huh!

This is the stuff that is just fun!

Well, at the beginning of the year we had an awesome cookie party. So, I decided we needed to have another party. This time my friend Ryan and I put together a pie party! It included a pie eating contest, and everyone bringing their own pie to share! It turned out awesome; there were about forty people there! The coolest part about it all was the fact that I knew pretty much everyone there, and was good friends with them!
Halloween this year was really interesting! I was planning on being a pirate and was looking for a sword at a store up here in Logan when I saw some fairy wings! I got really excited, and decided to change my costume! I went to the fabric store and made my own costume. I found some sheer fabric, sewed it onto a ribbon that I would tie around my waist, and then dangled ribbon all the way around it! The dressing up part was the coolest part of it all!
I had no desire to got the “Howl” on a campus; so, we all decided to go to a party at Hamilton's. It was absolutely terrible!
We started dancing which was fun until there were too many people and the guys were perverts, and danced all creepy. To avoid the dance floor we went to a lounge where there was drinks and food. This would have been fine, but the smell of smoke was so strong that I was getting sick to my stomach. So we went to the entrance, and tried to get fresh air. As we were standing there a guys bumped into me, and started to apologize. He was so drunk. He was breathing so heavy into my face, and the smell of beer was absolutely revolting! Agh! We ended up just sitting on these benches, and watching all the slutty people get more and more wasted. I kept thinking that this is so not my kind of party.
As the party went on this creepy creepy guy came up to us (nearly falling over), and started to explain to us that we were way to sober to be at that party. We all agreed, knowing that we didn't really like being there. He offered us his beer, and when we declined he told us that he used to say the same thing until he realized he was more attractive after a few drinks. We kinda just laughed, and he walked away. I was sick of being there by then, and said we should all just go back and watch a movie or something instead. Everyone was down, so we finally left!!
I would have been totally bummed that my Halloween was lame, but I was just so relieved that that wasn't my usual lifestyle. I left, and was so grateful that I know the truth, and know what it really means to be happy! Oh crazy crazy!

Well, that is the end of my super long update! Here are the pictures!

2008-10-18T19:27:00.000-07:00

Why Hello!
So, I finally made it through mid-terms and am now going to be studying my brains out to get a good grade in my stupid math class! (Evil glare towards my teacher) Anywho, after the crazy week of exams I got to enjoy a three day weekend. Every night there has been something going on! We have played games, hung out with our neighbors, and have just had a ton of fun! The funnest part about it all was the fact that I made a dress! All on my own! I realized that it is a lot harder than I expected! I finished it though and am going to wear it to church tomorrow! I am excited for church tomorrow too. I am singing a duet with Amy and DeAnna is going to play for us. I am pretty excited for it all! Scared but excited!! Good old fun for the fall break!

This is my dress!

This is me and Amy after we dyed out hair. My hair is a lot darker but it doesn't really look all that darker in comparison to Amy's super dark hair!

Here is a picture of my new hair color!

HELP!!

2008-10-08T09:01:00.000-07:00

Hello Family! So this entry is kind of a plea for help! I was contemplating doing study abroad and I decided I should figure out my class schedule for the next few years so I would know when the best time to go would be. Well, as I planned out each semester the realization that I won’t graduate for another 3 ½ years kinda started to bum me out!
Okay so here is my question! With my schedule I have a completely open semester next fall. I would just move up all my classes, but the class schedules won’t allow that. So, I am now contemplating what to do with that open semester. I could put maybe 2 required classes in there and the rest would be extra/fun classes. OH and I decided I would rather spend $8,000 on something other than study abroad. So now; do I make the other semesters a little lighter and put them into that semester and take a few elective classes that I haven’t had an opportunity to take, or Do I just take that semester off and work (up in Logan of course)!! So, if you have any suggestions I would love some more opinions to help me make a decision.

Alishia Through the Ages!

2008-09-23T23:04:00.001-07:00

Cookie Contest!

2008-09-08T08:01:00.000-07:00

The first FHE that i had up here in Logan I made friends with a bunch of different people. A few of us discussed the idea of having a cookie competition. Well, It happened Sunday Night!! We fit about fourty people into one little apartment! It was a ton of fun! I got a ton of great pictures!

My roommate Melissa was the winner and got a trophy, a date with this super funny kid, and a $10 gift card to Subway!

I also got set apart for my new calling Sunday! I am so excited for it! I met my fhe husband too. He is pretty cute and really nice. When we first met eachother he asked me if I was his other half! Ha ha ha it made me laugh. So, that will be a lot of fun.

I also was glad we came back early yesterday! We had a good sunday school, a great CES fireside, ward prayer, the cookie contest, and we hung out with a bunch of guys after(we played mario cart)!!!

Well, Life is good, and I am happy with where my life is right now! I'll update again soon!

First Week of School!

2008-08-29T15:05:00.000-07:00

Hello! I have made it through my first week of school, and I can already tell that this year is going to be amazing!! I am already so happy, and can tell that it is a trend that I feel won't go away anytime soon!! YAY! This entire week has been just full of new, fun things!

I moved in on Saturday! I met my roommates, Kathryn Welker, and Melissa Lambert! They are really nice girls! It's going to be a fun year with them. They are wanting to meet a lot of people too! They are both from here and have been best friends all through high school. So, in some ways it's hard, but over all it is not a problem. Oh and that night we went ice blocking down old main!! That was a ton of fun and rather painful!!

Sunday was my first day back at my ward! I only recognize a few people, and other than that it is a whole new group of people. I really like that! Being one of the handful that returned I am one of the member of the ward that the bishopric actually knows. Because of this I was asked to lead the music in sacrament meeting, and tell people in relief society how to sign up for institute! Overall church was a lot of fun, and I am excited to meet everyone there.

Monday was just as good. I started my classes bright and early. 7:30!!! Other than that the day went really well. I like all of my classes, and am enjoying the crazy instructor at institute! FHE was a lot of fun. Again being a familiar face I was asked to give the opening prayer. I really like being asked to do things; I feel more involved in the ward when I am participating. Anyways, for FHE we had a hogi dinner, and mingled (along with getting our pictures taken for the ward directory aka the take out menu). I was in a really good mood that day and went out of my way to make a lot of friends. I got to know a lot of people, and had a good time going around and starting conversations/asking questions. As I was leaving Brother Smith caught me and asked if we could talk. I could tell I was getting a calling. So, after our little chat I left with the new calling of FHE grandmother!!! I (and my "husband") are over all of FHE! I am really excited for this. It is going to be busy but I am excited for it. I think it will be a great way for me to get to know everyone in our ward! YAY!!

Well, a whole bunch of stuff happened all week but there are a lot of details involved that really aren't necessary. I met a ton of people, I enjoy all of my classes, I made pillows, I hung out a lot, and have really just had a great time.

So I was going to make this blog very informative but just explaining monday took way too long. So, we will just stick with the Alishia is happy statement and end this post!!!

ps! I have my room all set up cute I just need to put pictures in the frames. So, I will be posting a tour of my room once that is finished!

This is my awesome cheff outfit and new knife kit for my culinary class!

These are the pillows I made for my bed!!

The flower arragnment in my room!

Tag!

2008-08-11T12:58:00.000-07:00

Four random things I like about my husband:
1. OH my goodness let me go on! First off he is just oh so wonderful!
2. He is the most honest thing ever. Well unless, he is telling me that I really do look in my stylish clothing..like when I am in my horizontal striped pants with my checker patterned shirt ;)
3. OH and don’t forget the fact that he can cook! Not, only that but he cleans up after too!! Woot :D
4. He is great with the big family idea!!

Four jobs I have had:
1. Ferrah’s Sunwear- I was manager Baby!!
2. Western Watts! Nine months- Stupid boys do that to you. Kylie was fun too!
3. PHOTOGRAPHER at sears! My favorite Job EVER!! :)
4. Juniper Take Out! All of Freshman Year!

Four movies I have watched more than once:
1. Step up Movies!
2. Runaway Bride, While You Were Sleeping, Wedding Planner, How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days, Notebook…..lets just say chick flicks!
3. She's the Man! I second that! FUNNY and HOTT
4. Phantom of the Opera… :)

Four TV shows I watch:
1. TLC
2. Gilmore Girls-Friends-Smallville
3. America’s next top model
4. Food Channel-Disney Channel
Four places I have been:
1. Canada
2. California/Catalina
3. East coastish…Church history sites.
4. uh, Washington!

Four people who email me regularly:
1. Duncan Family Newsletter
2. Missionary Update
3. I don’t really email anymore. I blog and Facebook

Four of my favorite foods:
1. Home made bean Burritos
2. Steak and Potatoes
3. Parmesan Chicken
4. Prego Spaghetti

Four places I would like to visit:
1. France
2. Hawaii
3. Rome
4. England/ Scottland

Four things I am looking forward to in the coming year:
1. Second Year of School
2. Not being a Teenager in anymore!!
3. New Sister in-law! (Beh only one left to be single in the whole family!!!)
4. Getting involved in school!

Four People I tag:
1. Amy
2. Kylie
3. My sisters
4. Jess Warr

MY BIRTHDAY!!

2008-07-30T14:33:00.000-07:00

My birthday this year was pretty much awesome! The best part about it all was the fact that I didn’t have to do a thing! I knew I had to work; so there would be no point in me trying to plan something. So, I decided to just keep it simple.
I was wrong about simple; my friends are awesome, and were ahead in the game. It started this last Saturday!
Saturday morning I woke up to Jess W, Amy, and Ben throwing a blanket on my head, and dragging me out of bed! Oh, and let me tell you, I looked awesome! I had done my hair in curls the day before; so when I woke up it was in all directions! I was hott!
After getting kinda decent we all went to Denny’s for breakfast. As I was finishing my food I was told that the fun was not over. They handed me my swim suit, and told me we were leaving the valley. We climbed into the car, and I was “blind folded” (aka “keep the towel on your head, you can’t know where we are going”).
It didn’t take long to figure out that we were headed up the canyon though. When I figured out where we were I was allowed to take off the towel.

Soon enough I knew the plan; we were going tubing down the Provo River!!! HA HA ha oh my goodness, it was so much fun. We rode up in this old school bus, and started off down the river just below the dam! It was about a two hour run, and it was beautiful! I would recommend this to EVERYONE!!
Well, that was all for Saturday! So now, Tuesday, my actual birthday I had to work; so I didn’t really plan anything. I had a wonderful massage in the morning, but that was all I had planned for me.
At work everyone sang to me! Even better, they sang Alishia Lou! Oh, and mom of course had to explain to them the story about the day I was born! :)
That night Becky had seven layer dip made up for me, and made me a wonderful dessert. It’s that brownie, marshmallow cream, peanut butter, rice crispy treat thing! I don’t know what it’s called but it was delicious! After we ate dinner the Jenkins, Mom, and Dad gave me very nice presents! It was a ton of fun! The family was great!
After I spent time with the family I made plans to hang out with Jess W, and Amy! Too bad they took FOREVER. Well, it was all good, because when they actually showed up they had an awesome cake, ice cream, pizza, and chips waiting at the pool for me! The cake was awesome; it had my name written on it and had an Ariel figurine on the top! They were awesome! And they surprised me again, and had Mckell come too!

As we were sitting at the pool everyone was acting really weird, and I knew someone was going to come for a surprise. They told me that our other friends wanted to come, but couldn’t. So, when Amy was acting all funny I was expecting Ben to pop out of the bush. It was even better! My old roommate Melissa and her friend walked around the corner and surprised me! I was so shocked! I yelled and gave her hug! I was pretty excited. I haven’t seen her at all this summer!

I had all these awesome people around me to celebrate my birthday! My other friends couldn’t come, but I still had a great time! They were all at my house until about 1:00! Oh it was awesome! YAY! Woot!!

PS..I have pictures of Family stuff too but they are on Becky's camera, and I didn't get a picture of Mckell with us :(

FIESTA DAYS

2008-07-23T12:55:00.001-07:00

Fiesta Days is one of the coolest things that Spanish Fork does. This last Monday night I went with a bunch of my friends! We spent the evening there, and had a blast!
As I went to the carnival I really understood why Spanish Fork has the great reputation of “Hicks” Agh! The weird people really come out to those things. It wasn’t a group of cowboys. Its was full on hicks! I saw little boys’ heads cut real short with the long mow-hawk mullet things going on. It was just sad. I looked around and saw a bunch of people I hadn't seen for years. They had all dropped out!
All the same, we had a ton of fun! Here are some pictures.

And PS. I updated my photography site!

Good ol' Buddies

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

As many of you know this last weekend really has not been the best of weekends for me! So, two of my very best friends came up to my house! They were great, and tried to keep me happy through out the day! We went swimming, and then went to Chili's for dinner! They even had the waitress come out and they sang happy birthday to me! We all shared a shot of Chocolate! Oh, that was good!! And of course we are dumb, and had to take pictures of the event! ha ha here are just a few!

"Let Our Voices Be Heard"

2008-06-23T15:26:00.000-07:00

Yesterday in relief society we had a lesson on missionary work, and evils of the internet. It sounds like they wouldn’t really go together, but I’ll explain. We talked about how the internet can be a very wicked, but it can also be used for good. Elder Ballard gave a talk about how the internet is a conversation over the entire world, and we need to be a part of that conversation. We can put good out there. There are a lot of investigators out there who don’t just want to hear what the church is saying. They want to hear how it is affecting people, and how it would affect them.
The lesson turned to blogs, and the number of them. With blogs as a large communication tool in our society, it is also a good opportunity to be an example, and share our testimonies through our posts! Not very many people look at my blog, but you all do, and if you start to do the same thing it will spread! It's kinda scary, but it is my way of sharing.
I know that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is the only true church. There are a lot of good churches out there, but this is the true church of Jesus Christ. Our brother, Jesus Christ is the reason we can have faith in our heavenly father’s plan of salvation. I know that Joseph Smith restored the gospel to the earth. I have a testimony of the Book of Mormon, the power of the priesthood, the prophet and apostles we have today, and of the Holy Ghost. I know that we can be with our families together forever by keeping the covenants we make (or will make) in the temple. I am glad that I have the blessing to know the truth, and have the ability to share it with others. It’s not just a my privilege to share, but also my responsibility.

Here is the link to Elder Ballards talk on the media, and the influence we can have in it.

Let Our Voices Be Heard

3D Sidewalk Chalk Drawings

2008-05-28T09:58:00.000-07:00

These are some fun 3d Chalk drawings! It is amazing to see how realistick it really looks!! Some of them really trip you out!

Check out my photography blog!!

2008-05-17T22:32:00.000-07:00

So I have had a lot of fun with my camera the last little while. I posted some of my favorites on my photography site! The first batch are of a sunday drive I took with my great friend Wendi the last sunday I was up at school! Later that same day I went to DeAnna's, and took a bunch of pictures!
As I have said before I get pretty bored in the evenings so I go for walks. I decided to bring my camera along one day, and that is the third series of pictures!!
www.alishiasphotography.blogspot.com

Time to Blog!

2008-05-16T10:23:00.002-07:00

I must say that I was pretty excited that I would have more time to blog! I am stuck to my desk eight hours a day which would give me plenty of time to update you on my life right!? Yes, the fact that I have time to blog is correct, but because, I have time to blog means there is nothing to blog about!! Sheesh!!
All the same, here is the update I have. As simple as it may be, it is still an update! J
I am starting to get the hang of my job which is useful for the time that I actually do something! I have two cute little frogs on my desk that are very entertaining little buggers (I named them pickle, and peanut). Other than facebook, and my frogs I get to retrieve the mail! At work it is the highlight of my day!
Our house is pretty boring; so everyday when I come home from work I go for a walk to the park, and enjoy sitting by the river. I like any chance I can to get outside.
I don’t have much of a social life these days. I hang out with the few friends I stayed in contact with, and thrive on weekends! I talk to Tyler almost every day, and we try and hang out when we can. He leaves in just about a month! I am excited for him to go, but I sure am going to miss him.
Umm…yeah!!

Mt. West Title

2008-05-06T09:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was my official day at work! It was super fun waking up early but I survived. I like my job so far. There is a ton of new information to learn but I think I will be able to catch on in not too much time! I am excited to be working with mom, even though Becky is stealing her for two weeks!
Today mom is too busy to be training me so I am pretty much just answering phones and trying to come up with things to do that look productive! He he I am typing this all up in word right now.
I came back this summer not real excited to be working, because I wouldn’t be able to hang out with my friends. BUT, I realized I didn’t stay in touch with that many people when I went to school, so I don’t have very many friends left. And the ones that I did stay in touch with are either, leaving on missions, working, or moving out of state! So I am glad to be working. I won’t be bored out of my mind!! The two days before I started working I was pretty much really bored!

2008-04-26T22:10:00.000-07:00

this is our fun night to get ready for finals! Melissa joined us this time! OH it was so fun!!

HAIR CUT!!!!

2008-04-26T21:26:00.000-07:00

So I cut my roommates hair! I have dyed my roommates, and Amy's hair countless times! But I can finally say I cut someones hair! Melissa trusted me and I cut off about 2 1/2 inches off and then styled it! I was pretty excited cause it turned out GREAT!! yay...Melissa's Testimonial "I make this hair look GoOod!" ha ha I was concentrating really hard when I was doing it..ha ha can you tell!?

2008-04-23T17:14:00.000-07:00

I'm a Ford Mustang!

You're an American classic -- fast, strong, and bold. You're not snobby or pretentious, but you have what it takes to give anyone a run for their money.

"Take the Which Sports Car Are You? quiz.

UpDate!

2008-04-09T12:50:00.000-07:00

I am almost done with my first year of school! Oh Hurray! It is pretty crazy to think about! I guess that is just how life goes though! :) But here is what is going on my life for the most part!

I am going to be finishing up my classes in about two and a half weeks! I will definitely have 3 A's(I am pretty sure) and that is awesome and my other two are close behind. Oh what a relief to be over!

I got a job at Mt. West Title with mom for the summer. I am pretty much throwing my social life down the drain for the summer. It is okay with me though, I won't have to work at all next school year! I will probably get a job on campus for like 2 days a week to give me so play money! I am going to be working 40 hours a week and will be getting paid $10 an hour! The coolest part about not having to work is the fact that I can get involved in my ward and have time to make a lot of friends, which i didn't do at all this year! So YAY!! I am excited for next year to start!

Tyler got his call to Busan, Korea! He is leaving June 18! So I am really excited for him! Nothing is really going on between us. He is just one of my best friends and I will have fun writing him some letters! I am not sure if I want to talk to him before he leaves.

I was talking to my boss the other day about a conference talk (the one about salvation is personal and exaltation is accomplished with family) So as we were talking he was asking me if I was working for my exaltation. I smiled and said yes, well kinda. He than expounded to tell me how I need to get out there and flirt! I need to date a lot so I can have exaltation. So that was pretty funny!

Well, that is just a snap shot in my crazy life! I hope you guys are having a great week!

Bored..Scissors..BANGS!

2008-03-31T14:22:00.000-07:00

MY NEW LOOKS!!!
During church yesterday my roommate was telling me how I should try new bangs. I didn't think much about it till later when I was bored and I saw the scissors. I am also adding on pictures that are showing my fun makeup job! I took my lip gloss and put it around the outside line of my lips. Man, I really wish my lips were that big!
................This is the new look!

....and my big lips!! ...

Wedding Shower

2008-03-25T22:45:00.001-07:00

One of my very best friends is getting married! Jess Nielsen is getting married to Mike Beach August 15th! It's a little crazy for me to grasp the idea that we are old enough to have that happening!
I called Jess the other day to ask for updates on her life and see how she was doing. As we were talking I asked her if I was able to go to the temple to see her when she got married. She then told me I was dumb and that I better be there. Well, through the conversation we talked about how the best friend was the one to throw a bridal shower! And me being the best friend, I am now planning on throwing one for her this summer.
So pretty much I don't really know what I am doing. I know the general ideas! But if you have seen anything you really liked that you would suggest... or anything that you really don't like! So...I am open for suggestions!

My New Blog

2008-03-05T13:52:00.000-08:00

So a lot of the things that I would want to post on this blog are all mostly pictures! I also wanted to put a web page together of my photography that I have been working on. I only have one post up so far but there will be more to come. So if you would like to check it go to: www.alishiasphotography.blogspot.com

UPDATE!!!

2008-02-13T22:20:00.000-08:00

I have been chastised multiple times for not updating my blog, so here you go. I really haven't had a whole lot of time to write, but I do have a lot to say! Oh and this will be a long one so enjoy the detail. And if you want more details than let me know.

BRENTWOOD

I have signed the contract, and am very excited for next year. I will be living with my current roommate, Kayla! We will have 6 girls in the apartment. I will be sharing a room with someone I don't know yet!! So we will see how that goes. Here are some pictures of the new place.(Oh and the kitchen in our apartment is bigger than the sample picture I have! You will have to click on the layout and enlarge it to see my captions. It talks about all the cool things the apartment has.)

Mom, look at what you created! Aren't you proud?!

2008-01-13T12:36:00.000-08:00