Well, apparently I haven't blogged since mid August, and here I am sitting on the edge of where 2013 meets 2014 finally taking a moment to write. Nathan was ordained as an Elder last Sunday, and on Friday he went through the temple and received his endowments! One of the things I've struggled with the most, is feeling like Nathan has had to miss out on so many experiences that so many of us are able to have here on this Earth. My heart is just so full knowing that this is not one of those experiences. Nathan was literally glowing that whole night. I've never seen him so happy or peaceful. I wish I could explain how grateful I am to not only be his sister, but to be the sibling closest to him in age. He's always been my best friend, and he has blessed my life in so many ways. 

Currently

I'm waiting for Brielle to get home from her 8 mile run.

It's past pitch dark, and I have my worries about that girl.

Doesn't she know Provo is a hot spot for rapists?

I'm in the middle of reading Ender's Game for the first time.

Why am I getting into this so late??!

Not just a book for boys. 

I'm getting excited for tomorrow because Nathan went back to school this week

which means we are starting weekly temple sessions back up!

Every Thursday afternoon I'll get to spend a little bit of time with my (favorite) brother

at one of my favorite places on Earth. 

Don't you just love what going to the temple does for your life?

I don't know how I let myself get out of the habit of going.

Missing those nights at SUU where I'd come home 

to a night filled with brownies made by Matthew and

a few episodes of The Office.

But Bri just got back, and King of Queens with her is good enough! :)

{268 days. 

In case you were wondering.}

Guatemala Pt.1

Last week I had the opportunity to go to Guatemala to do some filming for my dad. He's the CEO of Mentors International, a company that strives to help end the poverty cycle of some third world countries by giving small business owners microcredit loans and business training. The clients pay back their loans and get new loans as their business grows, and eventually they no longer need help. They become self sufficient because Mentors International gives a hand up, not a hand out. These people have the ability to succeed just as much as anyone, and Mentors International helps give them the means. So, I went with my dad to get some footage of these clients and how their loans have helped them. 

Day 1 was filled 7 hours of flying, followed by a 5 and a half hour bus ride from Guatemala City to Huehuetenango. DoTerra is one of Mentors' sponsors, so a group of about 35 of their CPIs and distributors were with us on the trip, and the bus was filled with probably 100 different essential oils smells. (I'm not saying they don't work! Cause they always have for me. I'm just saying they have strong smells.) haha. To keep myself from getting to bus-sick, I had to either sleep (which I did most of the way, hence the lack of pictures--we just got off the red eye flight!) or focus on the beautiful scenery we were passing. It was absolutely breathtaking. I was amazed by all the use the Guatemalans were able to get out of the steep mountainside! I can't imagine working on those steep mountains all day, every day. The mountains go so high there, we were literally driving through and above some clouds. 

{Stay tuned for part 2!}

430.

//Today is day 430 without this gent. That's a lot of days, you guys! 300 to go is a whole lot less than 730 to go. I'm getting super anxious for him to get home, but he is just so happy over there in Germany! I've honestly never seen him happier. He has some really hard times, but it just seems like nothing can get him down. I'm so grateful that I get to be the one to write to him and learn from him every week. 

//Tomorrow I'm off to Guatemala to do some filming! I think I've tried to make plans to leave the county about 6 times this year, and I'm so happy that one of those plans is finally happening! Adventure is calling!

//You guys should click here to read an article about Matthew's dad in honor of his memorial ride coming up next week. And you should all go ride along!!

//Today I died my hair all by myself for the first time! It's all one color, and it's just a little darker, so it's not a huge achievement, but still. I've never died my hair by myself, so I'm pretty proud. haha. 

// Thursday night I went to the Kenny Chesney concert with my mama and my sisters Julie and Katie. It was so much fun! We played Phase 10 between each band and watched drunk people wander around lost. But for real, I love Kenny!! Country concerts are the best kind. 

Okay, now I'm off to get back to the million things I need to do before I leave tomorrow. Here's to a week out of the office and country! 

10 things I learned this weekend

1: I've had homebody tendencies lately, but if I make myself get out I'll always feel good about it.
2: Brielle is still the world's greatest friend.
3: I don't like when girls say, "we'll see if I'm available when he gets home!" when talking about boyfriends on missions. It's a choice, not a chance.
4: Monsters University was just as good as Monsters Inc. Go see it!
5: I want too much. I need to learn to just be content with what I have.
6: I'm in the mood to do lots of camping! Anybody with me?
7: Cutting up your debit card is a good way to save money.
8: Best guy friends that come home with a french accent are suddenly 7 times more attractive. Welcome home, Matt Meyers! 
9: Laughing until you cry is the best thing in the world!
10: I'm in the middle of a beautiful time of life with so much opportunity for growth.

Late-term Abortions

You guys should all watch this video on late-term abortions. Don't worry-it's not graphic. It just shows the real face of the abortion industry. This pregnant woman goes undercover pretending to be seeking an abortion, and then voice-records or video-records her interviews with doctors and counselors. This is completely reliable.

            

Happy birthday, Abigail!

Abby was the first friend I made after moving to American Fork from St. George.

She was a people-pleasing, high-achiever who played classical viola with perfect posture.  I was less inclined to quietly impress, preferring a more in-your-face approach, I liked punk music and wore boots to school dances. (obviously not impressing anyone haha)

We went through some awkward teen years together, talking about boys, first kisses (which Abby thought were disgusting), and going on double dates. We had late nights, because sleepovers weren't allowed, and ate way too much popcorn. 

A few years and many, many, many stories had past when we found ourselves meeting for our regular Cafe Rio and cheesy chick flick date. There was always much to discuss.

On one particular occasion Abby had some very important news for me. It was around early September. She didn't have a ring on her finger, but she had a date for a wedding scheduled at the temple.

Abby and I went through a lot at the same time. Together we started high school, broke up with guys, got dumped, graduated high school, went to Italy, moved out of our parents' houses, and started college. This is kind of the first time in 6 years that we aren't doing something major even close to simultaneously. 

I'm thrilled at the thought of being able to be her maid of honor and watch her get married to the best person out there for her, grow up, and move out of state. All I'm saying is, wherever she goes better have a dang good Cafe Rio. 

Happy 21st to my sweet friend, travel buddy, and pretend sister. I love you! 

10 things I learned this week.

1: The things I stress the most about are usually the least stress-worthy.
2: Confidence is key.
3: I really like to know everything that's going on with people I know. Even if it's none of my business. ha. oops.
4: My family + charades = best time ever.
5: Great friendships can develop out of any situation. 
6: Memorial Day weekend is the absolute worst time to throw a bridal shower if you want people to come.
7: If you're in to modesty, this place is your new best friend. 
8: Coconut oil is a miracle worker in sooo many ways!
9: My family is slightly uncomfortable with the things I'm open about. haha.
10: I'd sleep at night even if our bodies didn't need it. I love it so much.

Wednesday.

Today I got in trouble at work for talking too much with the other supervisor that sits behind me. 

Our conversation with our boss went a little something like this: 

"Hey, let's not have that happen again. Now have a good rest of the day." 

Our boss is pretty cool.

Lesson learned? probably not...

What can I say? I'm human.

And a girl. 

Which I think has been proven to mean I'll talk more.

In other news, I went to the chiropractor for this first time today!

Well, actually he came to me. But you know what I mean.

I'm convinced he's a miracle-worker. 

Oh, and the Bachelorette starts Monday!

I love Des. I don't see how you could not.

Answer me this: When do you all make time to workout? 

I typically wake up early in the a.m. and do my workout, but it's something 

I fall asleep dreading because I have to wake up so early to do it.

(why am I up blogging...?) 

I work at 7:00, so workout and shower have to be done before then.

I'd like to think that I could just workout right after work, 

but I worry life might get in the way, or I might get too lazy...

Do any of you workout in the late afternoon/nighttime? 

What are your thoughts? Is it easy to stick with or not? 

I might make the switch for a trial period to see if it works! 

Hope your hump day* was enjoyable and that you can all make it through until the weekend! 

*Hump day of the week...In today's world, if you're under 18, you might not understand that expression. 

1 year!!

If you follow me on Instagram, then you already know that Matthew hit his year mark on Thursday! It was definitely an exciting day for me. While it seemed like such a long year, at the same time I found myself thinking, "It's already been a year?!" And only having 1 year to go makes me so giddy. 1 year seems SO much less than 2! 

I feel so blessed to be such a big part of Matt's life. I learn from him in every single letter he writes. He is at his favorite part of his mission so far, and because he's had some pretty difficult times the past year, it's such a relief that he is doing so well right now! He's currently serving as zone leader in a city called Jena, with his favorite companion so far, and he couldn't be happier. And I couldn't be more proud! 

I quickly put together this video of a few of the pictures and videos he's sent me so far. I really admire the missionary that he is, and that he is able to have so much fun while working so hard. The quality is awful because Matthew's camera is cheap. (oops! my fault.) But it's still easy to tell that he is enjoying his time in Germany. Enjoy!

             

Crazy.

Do you ever go through those times where you're just crazy about life? I hope you do! 

Things like working out regularly, being productive after work, warm weather,
 and the fact that Matthew is almost at his year mark are just a few of the things 
making me crazy about life lately.  

Sometime soon I'll take the time to show you a few of the projects I've been working on, 
but for now you should definitely take the time to listen to this new song by Hunter Hayes. 
Forget 1D. Younger girls should be crushing on singers like this.

 I know I am!

Nathan.

Today is Nathan's 20th birthday. Can you even believe that?! 

We're only a year apart, so of course he's 20, but it just seems so old to me. 

Do any of you remember him before his drowning accident? 

Ah, he was the sweetest kid. He was my very best friend. (still is.) 

As each year passes, it gets harder for me to believe that he has been this way for more of his life than he hasn't been this way. 

It's been a little over 11 and a half years since his accident.  

Still, I remember his voice and try to think of what he would sound like now.

I know the kinds of girls he had crushes on, and I sometimes try to imagine what kind of girls he'd be interested in now. 

He was a little cutie back then, and he's definitely still a hunk now!

Most importantly, I know he's still the same incredibly amazing person on the inside, even if he can't express it as well right now. 

I couldn't be more grateful to have Nathan as my brother. I feel so blessed. You won't ever meet anyone whose light shines brighter. 

Happy birthday, Nathan Todd!  I love you!!

p.s. Thank you all for the support you guys have shown me and my family in regards to Nathan throughout the years and even still. 

You really have no idea how much it means to us, 

and it's your examples of service and love that have helped shape who I am today. :) 

Best friend.

If only I could explain how much this human means to me. 

From going to the temple with me every week, to eating way too much popcorn, she is by my side whenever I need her. 

Simple as that.

I hope you all have a best friend like this girl. 

Attention all my single ladies:

Remember this post from two years ago?

This weekend was spent with my dear friend Jonny. Friday we went to the coolest event I've ever attended, the Monster Jam monster truck show! Watching old guys do backflips on motorcycles off crazy high jumps, enjoying pizza and dippin'dots, and getting dirt blown all over our faces as big huge trucks did donuts in an arena that was too small, made for the best night ever. And then fondue dinner and dessert with one of our good friends, Seren, and one of his mission friends on Saturday, which was followed by decorating sugar cookies and delivering them with a hug and a song to a couple of widows in his ward. Because Jon is just always wanting to serve people like that, which is just one of the many many good things about Jon. Which brings me to the single ladies part:

Okay. Um. First of all, hello to the most precious face on Earth. Dimples. Enough said.

Second of all, everything I said in that post two years ago, is still 100% true, and all of his best qualities have been enhanced to the max. Jon Walker is truly one of the best people that I know, and I couldn't mean that more. He's pee-your-pants hilarious, gives the best advice, and can do a better job than anyone else at making you feel good about yourself. Every time I leave from hanging out with Jon, I feel like I am a better person because he gives me the resolve to be a better person. He leads by example. He can see and bring out the best in anybody, I'm sure of it. Also, if you think you've met nice guys before, spend an hour with Jon and those other guys will seem like jerks. haha. He'll set a whole new standard for you!

Obviously not EVERYONE can have my best friend Jon, and whatever lucky lady does will have to pass a couple of tests before she can have my stamp of approval, but it's definitely worth the shot! ;) And for most likely a short time only...: He's available. Go get him! 

In honor of Valentine's Day.

If you've been following my blog for a while, you'll already know that the past two Valentine's Days were more than perfect for me. (You can read about them here and here.) While it's different not having a significant other on this holiday, I still absolutely love it! I went to Walmart Thursday morning to pick up some valentines for my team and friends at work, and I just loved seeing the little middle school boys buying flowers and chocolate and teddy bears for their sweet little 14 year old girlfriends. At work, a co-worker and I spent a solid 20 minutes watching a man draw hearts and messages on the windows of his wife's van. I had a couple friends get engaged that day. And the next day, I heard plenty of cute stories about how couples spent their night. I love love. I love how selfless it has to be. Watching people be in love makes me giddy. And I really love a holiday that reminds people to show others that they care about them. 

I think I spoke a little too soon when I said that no matter what happens, nothing could make this week worse than the last. But it's hard to stay mad when there are so many lovely things in the world. Sometimes it's too much to take in, and I feel like I'm going to burst. Then I remember to stop trying to hold on to things, and it makes me grateful for every single moment of my stupid, lovely little life. 

I hope you weren't a cynic on Valentine's day. It doesn't matter if you had a valentine or not! Didn't you know that in your one little heart, you can love the whole entire world?

Bad days.

Last week was not my favorite week. In fact, it was actually easily one of my least favorites. I sort of lost 2 really good friends, and I had bronchitis. Not being able to breathe AND having a mind that won't shut up at the same time can really bring you down. At the same time though, call me crazy, but weeks like last week are kind of exciting to me. They are so bad that you just know that no matter what the next week brings, it will be better. I am lucky because at the end of that awful week, I had a handful of great friends waiting for me to join in the good times. The terrible week eventually ended, and an amazing weekend began. You kind of have to be grateful for those bad days, you know? Because without them, we wouldn't know what a good day was. 

And if today is your bad day, well, I'm sorry, and don't worry. Happiness will find you again, too. :) 

Mt. Timanogos Temple. :)

Tuesday night was spent with my best friend Abigail at the temple. Going to the temple is a beautiful experience for many reasons. Not only do I get to leave feeling rejuvenated enough to take on the world ahead of me, but I also love it because I believe it is one of the most Christ-like things we can do. Even though I can only do baptisms at this point, it still feels amazing every time knowing that I got to help someone by doing something that they could not do for themselves. Jesus Christ did something for us, that none of us could do for ourselves. He made the ultimate sacrifice so that we could each be forgiven of all of our sins. I think it was President Uchtdorf who said, "Don't judge me because I sin differently than you do." Or something like that. Sometimes there will be people in life that can make you feel dirty for your mistakes, and it can really hurt...repentance can be hard, and you probably suffered a little or a lot already...but can I tell you something? Each and every one of us has short-comings; some blatantly announcing themselves to the world, others only obvious to ourselves. Some physically limiting, others mentally obstructing. Whether visible or hidden, they exist. Sometimes other peoples' mistakes will directly affect us, but I believe it is a part of charity to accept them for who they are now and move past it. Can that be hard sometimes? Absolutely. Will it be worth it? Most definitely. 

Lives and hearts CAN be changed. And President Monson promised us that as we take advantage of the Atonement, those sins will be forgiven AND forgotten. 

I'm so grateful to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints! 

There's just no better goal, right?

From the road, it is simply a building. 

Nothing but an enormous amount of cement, bricks, and sidewalks.

But I know better.

Step closer,

climb up the stairs,

move softly into its doorway, 

and you will begin to know too.

Close your eyes and breathe in the scents of

Security and Warmth and Love bigger than any ocean;

as never ending as ones tides.

Surely you cannot help tingling all over,

touched by such warm rays the sun could never even know of.

All your fingers to escape you-

let them caress hundreds of lifetimes locked into every inch of this place.

You are standing in a history tied to thousands of other histories.

Close your eyes, but open your ears and listen.

Listen to sounds and words that can touch you, perhaps soften you,

and make you think of beautiful things;

things you would never dream of in your storm-tossed world.

Now open your eyes.

Open them and see! 

See the source of it all.

Then you will know what I know.

You will know why this place is different from all other places on Earth.

The lips on your face will smile without thick regard for your awkward imperfections.

I cannot help myself. 

I fall happily, softly

into the embrace of the One who makes all worthwhile

and who whispers,

"You can be anything and everything."

10 things I learned this weekend.

1: I always claim Mexican food to be my favorite, but I don't have a favorite Mexican sit-down restaurant. (Cafe Rio doesn't count.) Tell me your favorites so I can go try them all!

2: I can't wait for the sun. It's time for it to come out again. and I don't want any of this "Spring" stuff. I want SUMMER.

3: It's impossible to read a guy's mind when you haven't been friends for 3 years. Not everyone blurts out their feelings every minute of the day like I do. haha.

4: Time solves most things.

5: I'm craving a day with the ocean. Road trip anyone?? Anyone??

6: The best dreams happen when you're awake.

7: Laughing is most definitely my favorite thing in the whole world.

8: Just get up and get out.

9: There are people in my life that make me better just by being around them.

10: Sometimes it's just nice to go home early.

Happy little life.

    

There is a lot going on in my little life right now. There are a lot of possible direction changes that I am not completely sure I have any control over. Usually this lack of control causes me to be a little anxious, however I have tried to remain pretty cool and content through it all. There are times that my mind goes to a weird place when I get too worried about decisions I might have to make, but in the deepest part of me there is a confidence calming me and letting me know it will all be okay. I just know something great is in store for me at this fork in the road, and I am just drinking in all of the opportunity. I know still that I have amazing people in my life that will not let me down. There are people like all of you that are always smiling at me! (Thank you!!) Not everything going on is worth smiling about, but we smile because we can! I feel so inspired by it. I'm constantly laughing, and I just can't stop. And more importantly, I feel that for the first time in a long time, I know I have my own back. I am more determined than ever to make it. And for all of this, I am immensely grateful.

Maybe deep down my anxiety is frantically flirting will all my worry, but I wouldn't know, because up here I cannot get my head out of the happy clouds or wipe the smile off my face.

Yesterday I saw a sunflower sticking up out of the snow. Doesn't that itself just make you so happy?