First, I must apologize for not posting my wreath pictures from February and March yet. School kind of consumed my life for a while. I will post them during my vacation next week.
I am feeling impressed to share a miraculous experience with you. For a while now, I have prayed to gain a testimony of tithing through paying it faithfully and diligently. I gained a testimony of tithing a few years ago because I did NOT pay it. During that time, my finances were in a state of disarray, and I could not for the life of me make ends meet. That was partially why I moved back to Washington.
So, when I struck out on my own for a second time, I was determined to make tithing a priority. There have been times when it took every ounce of my faith to hand in my check. Other times, I didn't know how I would pay for all my bills. Yet, I knew that through my faith and diligence I would be blessed. Malachi 3:10 reads "Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse ... and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing..."
This month, that blessing poured down from the windows of heaven arrived. After realizing my income was not stretching far enough to cover my bills with more than ten dollars left over, I decided to seek out a second part-time job. Within about one week of starting to look for a second job, I found one! On a Saturday, I told my roommate that I was starting to look. By Monday morning, she learned of the perfect job to fit my needs. Monday afternoon, I had an interview set up for Tuesday morning. I was offered the job Tuesday morning and started on Thursday. It all happened so fast that I felt spun around for a while!
This is a huge blessing for me! My financial stress will not nearly be as much. For example, I am taking a week off of my day job to visit family, which is a big hit to my next paycheck. However, with the second paycheck, I will have enough to cover my rent (which is what I've stressed about the most over this trip). It will be nice to have more than $6 leftover after a paycheck. I may even start being successful at keeping money in my savings accounts!
I hope you all have a marvelous week!
Showing posts with label Testimony. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Testimony. Show all posts
16 March 2012
31 December 2011
Lessons & Accomplishments of 2011
As the old year passes and the new year approaches, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on some lessons and accomplishments from this year.
In 2011, I learned that asking for help, while extremely hard at times, is important. I am still trying to implement this principle in my life. I know that I can't do everything as much as I think I can. My visiting teachers and other friends have come to my aid and rescued me from the "dragons" that I faced. I witnessed the example my brother's family gave me of accepting help. They were probably most influential in teaching me this lesson.
In 2011, I learned the blessings of tithing. I had previously gained a testimony of tithing by not paying it in previous years. This year, I really strived to pay my tithing no matter how hard it felt. Let me tell you, there were a few months where it took every ounce of my faith to write and hand in my check. Because I have religiously paid my tithing, I have witnessed a few financial miracles. I've had a general peace about my finances. I have been able to better manage my money (for the most part) to live off my paychecks.
One miracle that stands out is the day my a headlight on my car burned out. I was down to my last dollar till my next paycheck with nothing to spare. A co-worker purchased a jewelry order from me. As I was driving to the bank to deposit the money from the order, I noticed my headlight was out. I was then able to immediately buy a replacement bulb and resolve the problem. That experience may seem like nothing special to you, but I recognize the timing of that blessing.
In 2011, I overcame a roadblock in my life that I had forgotten was there. It took moving to Utah and meeting an amazing friend to change my life in a way that resolved years of trying to avoid that particular roadblock.
In 2011, I completed my first quilt made entirely by me! I enjoyed that project immensely. I love seeing my quilt appear in pictures posted of the baby recipient on Facebook. I love hearing the compliments about my quilt given to the mother. At one point, the mother teased me that she received more comments on the beautiful quilt than on the cuteness of her baby!
In 2011, I learned the importance of working a job that I enjoy. After going through a bad situation in a job that I dreaded, finding my current job was a God-send... literally. The day after I quit my first job, I met the employment specialist in my ward. I didn't know she was the employment specialist at the time. I told her about my need for a new job, and she promptly helped me revise my resume. She helped me find a job faster than I ever could have on my own. Just as an needless piece of information, I have now worked at this job longer than any other job in my work history!!
In 2011, I experienced the greatest loss in my life so far. However, out of that, I have learned to trust in the Lord's timing and tender mercies.
This last year has been a roller coaster of a ride! Here's to a the year 2012!
Happy New Year my friends!
In 2011, I learned that asking for help, while extremely hard at times, is important. I am still trying to implement this principle in my life. I know that I can't do everything as much as I think I can. My visiting teachers and other friends have come to my aid and rescued me from the "dragons" that I faced. I witnessed the example my brother's family gave me of accepting help. They were probably most influential in teaching me this lesson.
In 2011, I learned the blessings of tithing. I had previously gained a testimony of tithing by not paying it in previous years. This year, I really strived to pay my tithing no matter how hard it felt. Let me tell you, there were a few months where it took every ounce of my faith to write and hand in my check. Because I have religiously paid my tithing, I have witnessed a few financial miracles. I've had a general peace about my finances. I have been able to better manage my money (for the most part) to live off my paychecks.
One miracle that stands out is the day my a headlight on my car burned out. I was down to my last dollar till my next paycheck with nothing to spare. A co-worker purchased a jewelry order from me. As I was driving to the bank to deposit the money from the order, I noticed my headlight was out. I was then able to immediately buy a replacement bulb and resolve the problem. That experience may seem like nothing special to you, but I recognize the timing of that blessing.
In 2011, I overcame a roadblock in my life that I had forgotten was there. It took moving to Utah and meeting an amazing friend to change my life in a way that resolved years of trying to avoid that particular roadblock.
In 2011, I completed my first quilt made entirely by me! I enjoyed that project immensely. I love seeing my quilt appear in pictures posted of the baby recipient on Facebook. I love hearing the compliments about my quilt given to the mother. At one point, the mother teased me that she received more comments on the beautiful quilt than on the cuteness of her baby!
In 2011, I learned the importance of working a job that I enjoy. After going through a bad situation in a job that I dreaded, finding my current job was a God-send... literally. The day after I quit my first job, I met the employment specialist in my ward. I didn't know she was the employment specialist at the time. I told her about my need for a new job, and she promptly helped me revise my resume. She helped me find a job faster than I ever could have on my own. Just as an needless piece of information, I have now worked at this job longer than any other job in my work history!!
In 2011, I experienced the greatest loss in my life so far. However, out of that, I have learned to trust in the Lord's timing and tender mercies.
This last year has been a roller coaster of a ride! Here's to a the year 2012!
Happy New Year my friends!
18 November 2011
A Tribute of Gratitude
Like most people, I have pondered gratitude a lot this month. I decided to focus on people I am grateful for this month. While I am grateful for the influence of so many people in my life, I want to dedicate this post to a just few!
04 October 2011
Frazzled to Peaceful in 0.2 Moments
Wow... Has it really been almost a month since my last post? I need to jump back into the blog world and keep this updated. Hopefully, I will take the time this week to post pictures of my completed sewing projects.
07 May 2011
This is The Place
It may be corny to quote what Brigham Young said when he saw the Salt Lake Valley, but it portrays my feelings exactly. After being here one month, I found a house to live in and a job (which I accepted the offer yesterday) that is close by. I can't tell you how many times I have felt a confirmation that I am in the right place for my life. Big things are going to happen in the next few years! I know of two off the top of my head: I will finish my education, and I will be financially independent from my parents. At least, those are my goals for the next few years.
I participated in a historic event this last week. Student Wards were done away with and the creation of Young Single Adult Stakes and Wards replaced them. We met in a big regional meeting at the Conference Center to learn what stakes we are in. Last Sunday was our first Stake Conference where we learned the boundaries of our new ward. I am so excited for this new ward. I know it will be wonderful. I will admit that it is foreign to me to have stake leaders who I have never met, but I know they are good men.
I have really enjoyed my three roommates so far. They are all spunky and quirky girls, who love life. I am the oldest, only by nine months, and it is interesting to hear insight come out of my mouth. (It's as if I knew what I was talking about!) I have taken the opportunity of my move to really stay close to my Heavenly Father and the Spirit. I have been surprised on many occasion of what I am led to say and learning that it was exactly what they needed to hear. Words aren't enough to express my gratitude to the Lord for His abundant blessings this last month and in my life.
Okay, now for the fun part. Here is a video tour of my house that I took for my parents. (So, you can ignore the comments to my mom and dad.) Sorry if it is a little wordy. Enjoy!
I participated in a historic event this last week. Student Wards were done away with and the creation of Young Single Adult Stakes and Wards replaced them. We met in a big regional meeting at the Conference Center to learn what stakes we are in. Last Sunday was our first Stake Conference where we learned the boundaries of our new ward. I am so excited for this new ward. I know it will be wonderful. I will admit that it is foreign to me to have stake leaders who I have never met, but I know they are good men.
I have really enjoyed my three roommates so far. They are all spunky and quirky girls, who love life. I am the oldest, only by nine months, and it is interesting to hear insight come out of my mouth. (It's as if I knew what I was talking about!) I have taken the opportunity of my move to really stay close to my Heavenly Father and the Spirit. I have been surprised on many occasion of what I am led to say and learning that it was exactly what they needed to hear. Words aren't enough to express my gratitude to the Lord for His abundant blessings this last month and in my life.
Okay, now for the fun part. Here is a video tour of my house that I took for my parents. (So, you can ignore the comments to my mom and dad.) Sorry if it is a little wordy. Enjoy!
Life is good; God is great! Paka!!
27 December 2009
Christmas Spirit
I had the opportunity to spend Christmas with my brother and his family this year. It was a wonderful holiday full of love and the Spirit. On Christmas Eve, it is their tradition to look at Christmas lights on houses. I loved it! We drove around town looking at the light displays while singing along to the Little People Christmas Songs nearly at the top of our lungs! After we finished, we read the Christmas Story out of Luke 2.
I would attribute how much of the Spirit I felt this Christmas to reading the Book of Mormon. My stake president issued a challenge to finish the Book of Mormon before the end of the year, so I decided to try my best to do so. The only thing is I started last week! I have felt my testimony in the Savior grow exponentially in the last few days as I have feasted on the scriptures. The increase of the Spirit in my life is without a doubt the best Christmas gift I could ever receive. In light of that thought, I wanted to share a video with you even though it is after Christmas. Enjoy!
May the spirit of Christmas be with you all year long.
04 December 2009
Sweets for the Sweet
This week has been wonderful! I am finished with school until January, and I picked up my second pay check. The house is now decorated for Christmas. I'd say life is grand right now.
One of my roommates is moving to Idaho tomorrow. We are all sad to see her go, but what can you do? I'll tell you what! You throw a party to say good-bye, that's what! I was glad to have an excuse to bake while in my baking mood. I think I might have gotten a little carried away, but everyone enjoyed the results.
M&M Dream Bars, at the request of Hungry a few weeks ago.
Non-frosted Cupcakes because some people don't like frosting.
Frosted Cupcakes for those who do like frosting.
My famous Snickerdoodles.
If you haven't had one yet, contact me. I'll hook you up!
I'm serious about that.
Actually, I want to pause for a moment. Almost every time I have made my Snickerdoodles, I have read the recipe wrong during the process. One time, I was making once the recipe, which calls for two eggs, and I unthinkingly cracked four eggs. I ended up having to double the recipe that time. This time, I was mixing the cinnamon and sugar to coat the dough, and I somehow read 3 tablespoons of sugar and 3 tablespoons of cinnamon. Let me tell you, that is a lot of cinnamon! I had to add a ton of sugar to even out that mistake. On the bright side, now I have plenty of cinnamon and sugar mixture to put on toast in the morning. Also, I probably won't have to mix any more for the next time I make Snickerdoodles. I suppose it is my tribute to my mom's salt cookies! Fortunately, each mistake has been fixable (knock on wood).
The party was grand. I had invited several people from our ward to come. Most of the people I invited didn't come, but I am so grateful to gals who aren't afraid to make a ton of phone calls to get people over to a party! We played Apples to Apples and enjoyed the great treats and all the laughter. It was a great party! Here is a picture of all the people there minus two who had to leave early.
One more thought before I close. I don't believe in coincidences, not with big happenings anyway. My roommate had been looking for a bike rack since she knew she was moving. She asked if any of the girls who were the first to arrive had one. Lo and behold, one of the girls did have one! It was one of those moments when you realize that Heavenly Father is always looking out for what you stand in need of most. The girl ran home and brought back the bike rack for my roommate to borrow. After the party, two guys stuck around to help us put it on the car. It was freezing cold outside, but we finally managed to get the bike securely in place. I love how things like that just work out. You pray and seek and do all you can do. Suddenly, the Lord provides! I guess I believe in miracles instead of coincidences.
I love being a young single adult!! Life truly is grand!
One of my roommates is moving to Idaho tomorrow. We are all sad to see her go, but what can you do? I'll tell you what! You throw a party to say good-bye, that's what! I was glad to have an excuse to bake while in my baking mood. I think I might have gotten a little carried away, but everyone enjoyed the results.
M&M Dream Bars, at the request of Hungry a few weeks ago.
Non-frosted Cupcakes because some people don't like frosting.
Frosted Cupcakes for those who do like frosting.
My famous Snickerdoodles.If you haven't had one yet, contact me. I'll hook you up!
I'm serious about that.
Actually, I want to pause for a moment. Almost every time I have made my Snickerdoodles, I have read the recipe wrong during the process. One time, I was making once the recipe, which calls for two eggs, and I unthinkingly cracked four eggs. I ended up having to double the recipe that time. This time, I was mixing the cinnamon and sugar to coat the dough, and I somehow read 3 tablespoons of sugar and 3 tablespoons of cinnamon. Let me tell you, that is a lot of cinnamon! I had to add a ton of sugar to even out that mistake. On the bright side, now I have plenty of cinnamon and sugar mixture to put on toast in the morning. Also, I probably won't have to mix any more for the next time I make Snickerdoodles. I suppose it is my tribute to my mom's salt cookies! Fortunately, each mistake has been fixable (knock on wood).
The party was grand. I had invited several people from our ward to come. Most of the people I invited didn't come, but I am so grateful to gals who aren't afraid to make a ton of phone calls to get people over to a party! We played Apples to Apples and enjoyed the great treats and all the laughter. It was a great party! Here is a picture of all the people there minus two who had to leave early.
One more thought before I close. I don't believe in coincidences, not with big happenings anyway. My roommate had been looking for a bike rack since she knew she was moving. She asked if any of the girls who were the first to arrive had one. Lo and behold, one of the girls did have one! It was one of those moments when you realize that Heavenly Father is always looking out for what you stand in need of most. The girl ran home and brought back the bike rack for my roommate to borrow. After the party, two guys stuck around to help us put it on the car. It was freezing cold outside, but we finally managed to get the bike securely in place. I love how things like that just work out. You pray and seek and do all you can do. Suddenly, the Lord provides! I guess I believe in miracles instead of coincidences.
I love being a young single adult!! Life truly is grand!
17 May 2009
Hymn Humming
There are about four weeks left until my big move! It's so crazy to think I am actually moving to Utah and attending UVU. Someone pinch me. I'm afraid to wake up and find it never really happens.
Along with the excitement of getting ready to move, I've had a lot of scary realizations. This is a big, scary step in my life. I've double and triple checked with Heavenly Father that I am doing the right thing. So far, the answer hasn't changed, and it won't. I am more scared to move to Utah than I was to travel to Russia.
As I sat in the adult session of Stake Conference, a speaker read a verse of the hymn "How Firm a Foundation" (Hymn No. 85). It really stood out to me and has become my current motto. I found myself strengthened by the words as I listened to them read over the pulpit. I found comfort in them as I sang all seven verses while putting the dishes away. I know the Lord brought this hymn to my remembrance to aid me as I prepare to survive on my own in a far away place, with strange people.
The great adventure is about to begin!
Along with the excitement of getting ready to move, I've had a lot of scary realizations. This is a big, scary step in my life. I've double and triple checked with Heavenly Father that I am doing the right thing. So far, the answer hasn't changed, and it won't. I am more scared to move to Utah than I was to travel to Russia.
As I sat in the adult session of Stake Conference, a speaker read a verse of the hymn "How Firm a Foundation" (Hymn No. 85). It really stood out to me and has become my current motto. I found myself strengthened by the words as I listened to them read over the pulpit. I found comfort in them as I sang all seven verses while putting the dishes away. I know the Lord brought this hymn to my remembrance to aid me as I prepare to survive on my own in a far away place, with strange people.
The great adventure is about to begin!
21 April 2009
Through Cleaning Comes Freedom
Spring is a wonderful time of year! I love the sunshine and the fresh flowers found in abundance! I love that Spring symbolizes a new start in life. So, it seems that everyone starts their spring cleaning on the first sunny weekend! Yesterday was the perfect day for spring cleaning. The sun was out, the temperature was warm, the birds were singing.I completed a Spring Cleaning of my own. It wasn't the normal house cleaning: the dusting, vacuuming, mopping, etc. My spring cleaning was an internal cleaning of junk I've been trying to get rid of for several months. My reasoning for cleaning it out was I seemed not to move past what was there. Mister E tired of my constant emotional problems that all linked back to this one area.
It took a lot of strength I thought I didn't have to rid my life of the junk. At first, I relied on Mister E for strength to delete memory triggers from my life, but I soon realized that I needed to find the strength myself to cleanse my life. Yesterday, I sat down and purged my email, pictures, and music of memory triggers. I hadn't realized how holding onto those things were causing me more problems than not.Sorting through those items was really tough. I'm joyfully surprised I was able to finish without any assistance. The pain of the memories was more than I care to admit. I didn't realize how many memories and feelings I had suppressed over the
last several months. I wrote down all the memories and whatever thoughts and feelings came to mind, filling pages with it all.Finally when the last email was deleted, I knew letting this junk go could be accomplished with one simple yet hard task. I went to Mister E's house for his assistance in completing my objective. I read aloud the venting I had written down from the day so that I could admit to myself the truth and pain of those memories. Mister E quietly listened as I let everything melt away, and when all was done, he helped me burn the last remnants of those memories and experiences.
At last, I was FREE!!! I was free from the pain, the memories, the emotion, the regret, the weight of carrying that junk around with me! I was no longer being strangled by what I couldn't change. I was free to be myself again, to move forward with my life, to discover what new paths are ahead. The smile on my face could not have been any bigger. I became a feather floating on a cloud of happiness. Life was my own again!
I can't tell you how wonderful it is to be rid of that junk. It is only through the Lord's mercy that I am free. It was His strength I needed to rely on before I could truly let go of what I held on to. It is amazing what the Lord can do with a simple girl like me, who makes mistakes and is far from perfect. Yet, He loves me and is there to help whenever I need Him and even when I feel I don't.I love life, don't you?
04 March 2009
Lessons in Self-Control
Ah, self-control... How horrible and wonderful it is at the same time. I've found that a lot of my challenges of late have been in self-control. Some have been self-inflicted tests of my self-control.
Last week, I cut all desserts from my diet. Let me tell you that that was hard- especially when Dad brought home the brownies from Costco! Man, I almost gave in right then and there. I held strong until Mister E took me out to lunch and was disappointed that he wouldn't be able to order cheesecake for dessert. Seriously, the man can talk me into almost anything!
Speaking of Mister E, we decided to take a break from dating for a while. It's a long complicated story that even he and I don't fully understand. So, I won't bore you with all the details. However, I want to say that sitting next to him while he was so downtrodden without throwing my arms around him to comfort him was THE hardest test of my self-control. To watch him struggle and be weighed down with the world almost tore me apart knowing there wasn't anything I could do to help. I can only attribute the strength in self-control I had last night to the Lord. It is only through Him that I had the ability to refrain from hugging him till every care of the world left.
I've come to know that through the Lord, we gain strength that we wouldn't ordinarily have. We must rely on His ever out-stretched arm for guidance and support through life's many paths. It is through our practice of self-control while relying on the Lord that we ultimately overcome the natural man and become as our Father in heaven.
Last week, I cut all desserts from my diet. Let me tell you that that was hard- especially when Dad brought home the brownies from Costco! Man, I almost gave in right then and there. I held strong until Mister E took me out to lunch and was disappointed that he wouldn't be able to order cheesecake for dessert. Seriously, the man can talk me into almost anything!
Speaking of Mister E, we decided to take a break from dating for a while. It's a long complicated story that even he and I don't fully understand. So, I won't bore you with all the details. However, I want to say that sitting next to him while he was so downtrodden without throwing my arms around him to comfort him was THE hardest test of my self-control. To watch him struggle and be weighed down with the world almost tore me apart knowing there wasn't anything I could do to help. I can only attribute the strength in self-control I had last night to the Lord. It is only through Him that I had the ability to refrain from hugging him till every care of the world left.
I've come to know that through the Lord, we gain strength that we wouldn't ordinarily have. We must rely on His ever out-stretched arm for guidance and support through life's many paths. It is through our practice of self-control while relying on the Lord that we ultimately overcome the natural man and become as our Father in heaven.
23 January 2009
Singing While Using Sight
I'm jumping back into being a music major this term, and it is HARD work! Seriously, I don't remember Ear Training being so hard! We had a sight singing quiz yesterday in class, and I was amazed at the miracle I was blessed with.
For those of you who are wondering, sight singing is just that- singing by sight. The instructor is being nice to us and letting us practice the several selections prior to our test; therefore, this wasn't true sight singing. When you sight read a piece of music, you play or sing it on the first try without having looked at it before hand.
My miracle is this: I made it through to the end of my test! That may not seem like a lot, but it is. I hadn't studied too hard for this quiz because I was studying for other quizzes from the same class- intervals identification, melodic dictation, rhythmic dictation, harmonic dictation. There is a lot to study!
Once again, Heavenly Father has blessed me with a crisp mind to remember the solfège for minor melodies and staying somewhat on pitch through my quiz. I am so grateful to have a keen mind that remembers what it has learned. I pray that I'll gain more confidence as I practice and study more this term.
For those of you who are wondering, sight singing is just that- singing by sight. The instructor is being nice to us and letting us practice the several selections prior to our test; therefore, this wasn't true sight singing. When you sight read a piece of music, you play or sing it on the first try without having looked at it before hand.
My miracle is this: I made it through to the end of my test! That may not seem like a lot, but it is. I hadn't studied too hard for this quiz because I was studying for other quizzes from the same class- intervals identification, melodic dictation, rhythmic dictation, harmonic dictation. There is a lot to study!
Once again, Heavenly Father has blessed me with a crisp mind to remember the solfège for minor melodies and staying somewhat on pitch through my quiz. I am so grateful to have a keen mind that remembers what it has learned. I pray that I'll gain more confidence as I practice and study more this term.
12 January 2009
Second Monday Moanings
Today is the start of the second week in this school term. I'm finding it hard to return to a good scheduled routine after such a long break between terms. Three weeks is the amount of time it takes to form habits, and my break was basically three weeks. So, I'm struggling to undo the terrible sleeping schedule I created during my break to be at my best to start new and better habits that will aid my success this term and next.
Through a lot of thinking and praying, I've decided that the best academic path for me is to finish my AA at my current school before looking ahead to a University. It will help me in the long run when I transfer because I'll have a degree to transfer, not just a random bunch of courses and credits. I've started creating my road map for the courses I need to take within the next five quarters at this school, and I find myself in the same predicament I had when I first started school here. Music classes take a lot of work for the few credits earned. Take three performance classes, one theory class, and an ear training class, and you'll find you are already at the full time student mark. That leaves little room for any non-music classes you might need to take. However, my plan to overcome that predicament is this: I'm going to cram as many classes as I can survive into the summer term! The only music classes offered during the summer are private lessons, so I'll have room to focus on other subjects.
I've discovered that things come in pairs in my life. I start one of the hardest school terms thus far and find a friend who, unknown to him, is having a profound effect on my life. The last month I've spent getting to know him has been amazing and full of laughter. He has shown me reasons for improving my life that I never knew were there. Every day I can make him laugh is a day worth living. I don't know where this friendship will lead, but I won't worry about that just now. I realize that I have to be careful in how much I allow him to distract me from my studies. I could very easily let this developing romance have top priority in my mind's thinking. So far I've stayed balanced, but there is still much of life ahead of me. All I know is that he is the hardest person to say goodbye to, even when I'll see him the next day. :D
To sum up, I leave you with one of my favorite scriptures.
"Therefore, let us glory, yea, we will glory in the Lord; yea, we will rejoice, for our joy is full; yea, we will praise our God forever. Behold, who can glory too much in the Lord? Yea, who can say too much of his great power, and of his mercy, and of his long-suffering towards the children of men? Behold, I say unto you, I cannot say the smallest part which I feel." (Alma 26:16)
Time for band. If you hear a piccolo, that's me! :)
Through a lot of thinking and praying, I've decided that the best academic path for me is to finish my AA at my current school before looking ahead to a University. It will help me in the long run when I transfer because I'll have a degree to transfer, not just a random bunch of courses and credits. I've started creating my road map for the courses I need to take within the next five quarters at this school, and I find myself in the same predicament I had when I first started school here. Music classes take a lot of work for the few credits earned. Take three performance classes, one theory class, and an ear training class, and you'll find you are already at the full time student mark. That leaves little room for any non-music classes you might need to take. However, my plan to overcome that predicament is this: I'm going to cram as many classes as I can survive into the summer term! The only music classes offered during the summer are private lessons, so I'll have room to focus on other subjects.
I've discovered that things come in pairs in my life. I start one of the hardest school terms thus far and find a friend who, unknown to him, is having a profound effect on my life. The last month I've spent getting to know him has been amazing and full of laughter. He has shown me reasons for improving my life that I never knew were there. Every day I can make him laugh is a day worth living. I don't know where this friendship will lead, but I won't worry about that just now. I realize that I have to be careful in how much I allow him to distract me from my studies. I could very easily let this developing romance have top priority in my mind's thinking. So far I've stayed balanced, but there is still much of life ahead of me. All I know is that he is the hardest person to say goodbye to, even when I'll see him the next day. :D
To sum up, I leave you with one of my favorite scriptures.
"Therefore, let us glory, yea, we will glory in the Lord; yea, we will rejoice, for our joy is full; yea, we will praise our God forever. Behold, who can glory too much in the Lord? Yea, who can say too much of his great power, and of his mercy, and of his long-suffering towards the children of men? Behold, I say unto you, I cannot say the smallest part which I feel." (Alma 26:16)
Time for band. If you hear a piccolo, that's me! :)
02 January 2009
A Life Lesson
Life Lesson: There are no coincidences when you are living by the Spirit.
Fact.
I firmly believe there are no coincidences in life. I will stand by that belief till the death if I have to. I was reminded of that fact today many times. I think it was a great way for Heavenly Father to start my new year. I needed the reminder that things happen for a reason. I might not know what that reason is, but the reason is there nonetheless.
At the YSA dance, I was invited to a post-dance party at my friend's house. I wasn't entirely sure I wanted to go since I wouldn't even be getting home from cleaning the dance till after two in the morning. On the way home, I decided to go to the party. I was up anyway. What's a few more hours? I'm young; I can sleep it off later. After I said good-bye to my date, I drove to my friend's house to join the party. I arrived around three in the morning, which wasn't a big deal.
I arrived after a lot of the people already left, but there were still about ten people there. We watched a Disney movie, which ended around five. After the movie ended, a few people left, and I felt like I should stay. The group of us crashed- literally- on the floor and chairs of my friend's house. We all just fell asleep. Who could blame us after four hours of dancing and four more of partying? I know I was tired!
One of the guys woke up around 6:40am and decided it was time to leave. So, he woke up his brothers and the majority of the group left. That left myself, my friend and one other person in the house. Again, I thought about leaving, but I felt like I needed to stay. At the time, I made the excuse to myself that I was too tired to drive home safely. The third person left about twenty minutes after the main group left, and my friend and I promptly fell asleep on the couch.
What I found out later was my friend had been wondering how she was going to get the other person out of her house. She told me that I had been an answer to prayer. The feelings that I needed to stay were promptings from the Spirit. I am so thankful that I am able to listen and follow the promptings of the Spirit even when I am half asleep at seven in the morning. What a blessing that knowledge is to my life. I hope I don't have to test my listening skills too much with that little sleep, but it is nice to know I can still pay attention.
My friend and I don't know what would have happened had I left when the main group left, but I'd rather not think of the "what ifs" of that situation. I truly know that I was supposed to be at her house that night. She and I spent the day talking (well, we didn't actually wake up until noon) about everything. We talked about life, guys, the gospel, guys, dreams, guys. We were both really amazed to realize the "coincidences" that had occurred that night.
I love having gem experiences like this that remind me that I'm on the right path for my life. Even little things like staying when everyone else is leaving can have a profound effect. That's the life lesson for today.
Fact.
I firmly believe there are no coincidences in life. I will stand by that belief till the death if I have to. I was reminded of that fact today many times. I think it was a great way for Heavenly Father to start my new year. I needed the reminder that things happen for a reason. I might not know what that reason is, but the reason is there nonetheless.
At the YSA dance, I was invited to a post-dance party at my friend's house. I wasn't entirely sure I wanted to go since I wouldn't even be getting home from cleaning the dance till after two in the morning. On the way home, I decided to go to the party. I was up anyway. What's a few more hours? I'm young; I can sleep it off later. After I said good-bye to my date, I drove to my friend's house to join the party. I arrived around three in the morning, which wasn't a big deal.
I arrived after a lot of the people already left, but there were still about ten people there. We watched a Disney movie, which ended around five. After the movie ended, a few people left, and I felt like I should stay. The group of us crashed- literally- on the floor and chairs of my friend's house. We all just fell asleep. Who could blame us after four hours of dancing and four more of partying? I know I was tired!
One of the guys woke up around 6:40am and decided it was time to leave. So, he woke up his brothers and the majority of the group left. That left myself, my friend and one other person in the house. Again, I thought about leaving, but I felt like I needed to stay. At the time, I made the excuse to myself that I was too tired to drive home safely. The third person left about twenty minutes after the main group left, and my friend and I promptly fell asleep on the couch.
What I found out later was my friend had been wondering how she was going to get the other person out of her house. She told me that I had been an answer to prayer. The feelings that I needed to stay were promptings from the Spirit. I am so thankful that I am able to listen and follow the promptings of the Spirit even when I am half asleep at seven in the morning. What a blessing that knowledge is to my life. I hope I don't have to test my listening skills too much with that little sleep, but it is nice to know I can still pay attention.
My friend and I don't know what would have happened had I left when the main group left, but I'd rather not think of the "what ifs" of that situation. I truly know that I was supposed to be at her house that night. She and I spent the day talking (well, we didn't actually wake up until noon) about everything. We talked about life, guys, the gospel, guys, dreams, guys. We were both really amazed to realize the "coincidences" that had occurred that night.
I love having gem experiences like this that remind me that I'm on the right path for my life. Even little things like staying when everyone else is leaving can have a profound effect. That's the life lesson for today.
01 January 2009
Beginning A New Year
Happy 2009!
I have to say that 2008 was one of the best and rewarding years of my life to date. I grew so much as a person through living the gospel, exploring friendships, taking risks, trying new things, going on adventures and really grasping a hold of what life is all about. Last year taught me so much. I could sit here and list off lessons I've learned from each experience, but I won't. For one, that list would be too long to be polite. Secondly, most of the lessons I learned last year were random personal lessons that may or may not be too personal to share.
I am so thankful for this time in my life to learn and to have fun. I'm eleven days from my twenty-first birthday, and I couldn't be happier. Life has generally treated me well, and I'm loving every minute of this era of my life. For the first time in my life, I am a social butterfly! I have different groups of friends that I divide my time between. Frankly, I have no idea how people do this. Being so social is hard work! You have to be careful not to overbook yourself. I have a day planner, but I still double book myself on activities! I love being in this predicament though. I love having friends who uplift me and remind me of my goals.
New Year's Eve, I went to the regional YSA dance! It was so much fun! Well... my date was kind of a downer, but that was for some unexpected reasons. So in reality, the last two hours of the dance was "so much fun". It was then that I decided not to worry about my date and just have fun. It was the last opportunity to have fun in 2008, and I wasn't going to miss it! I danced and had the time of my life! I would relive last night again and again if I could. To leave all cares behind and let go of problems I tried solving is the best feeling in the world!
I'm looking forward to a new and unknown year! I don't know what's up ahead, but I'll find out soon enough!
I have to say that 2008 was one of the best and rewarding years of my life to date. I grew so much as a person through living the gospel, exploring friendships, taking risks, trying new things, going on adventures and really grasping a hold of what life is all about. Last year taught me so much. I could sit here and list off lessons I've learned from each experience, but I won't. For one, that list would be too long to be polite. Secondly, most of the lessons I learned last year were random personal lessons that may or may not be too personal to share.
I am so thankful for this time in my life to learn and to have fun. I'm eleven days from my twenty-first birthday, and I couldn't be happier. Life has generally treated me well, and I'm loving every minute of this era of my life. For the first time in my life, I am a social butterfly! I have different groups of friends that I divide my time between. Frankly, I have no idea how people do this. Being so social is hard work! You have to be careful not to overbook yourself. I have a day planner, but I still double book myself on activities! I love being in this predicament though. I love having friends who uplift me and remind me of my goals.
New Year's Eve, I went to the regional YSA dance! It was so much fun! Well... my date was kind of a downer, but that was for some unexpected reasons. So in reality, the last two hours of the dance was "so much fun". It was then that I decided not to worry about my date and just have fun. It was the last opportunity to have fun in 2008, and I wasn't going to miss it! I danced and had the time of my life! I would relive last night again and again if I could. To leave all cares behind and let go of problems I tried solving is the best feeling in the world!
I'm looking forward to a new and unknown year! I don't know what's up ahead, but I'll find out soon enough!
24 November 2008
Scriptural Amputation
In my Institute class last week, we read Mark 9:43-48, which
talks about "if thy hand offend thee, cut it off". We discussed the meaning of those verses and determined quite quickly (especially after reading the Joseph Smith Translation in the appendix) that Christ isn't telling us to literally cut off our hand. Instead, He tells us to evaluate the people around us and see if there needs to be improvement.
In the last month or so, I've been trying to accomplish this type of evaluation for my life. Now, don't worry. Anyone who reads this is in no danger of being cut from my life! However, there are a few places I could improve in. It finally hit me like a ton of bricks that the time to "cut off my hand" is now. If I don't make an effort to "cut off my hand", I will not be happy with the path I'll walk down.
I know this process won't be easy at all. It's going to take a while to adjust to the changes, but I'll be better off in the eternal spectrum. If nothing else, this process will teach me to rely on the Lord that much more. There is no way I can do this without the Lord's help and guidance. It is He who helped me recognize which hand needs to be cut off in the first place.
So, wish me luck as I start work on my "amputation"; any and all prayers are welcome!
talks about "if thy hand offend thee, cut it off". We discussed the meaning of those verses and determined quite quickly (especially after reading the Joseph Smith Translation in the appendix) that Christ isn't telling us to literally cut off our hand. Instead, He tells us to evaluate the people around us and see if there needs to be improvement.In the last month or so, I've been trying to accomplish this type of evaluation for my life. Now, don't worry. Anyone who reads this is in no danger of being cut from my life! However, there are a few places I could improve in. It finally hit me like a ton of bricks that the time to "cut off my hand" is now. If I don't make an effort to "cut off my hand", I will not be happy with the path I'll walk down.
I know this process won't be easy at all. It's going to take a while to adjust to the changes, but I'll be better off in the eternal spectrum. If nothing else, this process will teach me to rely on the Lord that much more. There is no way I can do this without the Lord's help and guidance. It is He who helped me recognize which hand needs to be cut off in the first place.So, wish me luck as I start work on my "amputation"; any and all prayers are welcome!
26 October 2008
Time Passing
Friday marked my being home from Russia for six months!
I can hardly believe it has been that long, yet Russia seems years away at times. I think of all the events I packed into the last six months and am in awe by what happened. Then I think of what I have planned for the next six months and am almost floored!
It is so amazing to me how the Lord works. I can feel His hand guiding my life and in my choices. Because I currently belong to the YSA age group, I find my life making twists and turns that are unexpected. Through all these changes, I know the Lord is placing me where I can be the most service to Him. The next eight months will be quite the challenging months while being the most rewarding.
I can hardly believe it has been that long, yet Russia seems years away at times. I think of all the events I packed into the last six months and am in awe by what happened. Then I think of what I have planned for the next six months and am almost floored!
It is so amazing to me how the Lord works. I can feel His hand guiding my life and in my choices. Because I currently belong to the YSA age group, I find my life making twists and turns that are unexpected. Through all these changes, I know the Lord is placing me where I can be the most service to Him. The next eight months will be quite the challenging months while being the most rewarding.
21 October 2008
Life's Puzzle II
Today, I found all the missing pieces for my life's puzzle! It seems that I was trying to fit the old pieces into the new spots. Being the young single adult (YSA) that I am, life changes rapidly. It took having everything in my life called into question for me to realize my plans needed to change. I made one simple course alteration, and poof, life is dandy again! I am more at peace right now than I have the last week.
You may be asking what this course alteration is. Well, I'll tell you! I am not moving to Logan, UT after Christmas as previously planned!
I am super excited to stay here and continue my schooling at home, be part of the YSA program, and have fun without worrying what comes next! Eventually, I'll move to Logan, but it won't be until at least July. Who knows, I might decide to serve a mission after this school year is out. I might meet the man of my dreams and find myself rushing off to get married. I have no idea what will be next in my life. All roads are open at this point. I just know that finishing this school year is what I need to do!
I'm really excited to continue serving on the Multi-Stake Committee for a while longer. I'm going to enjoy it very much. I attended my second meeting tonight, and this meeting was almost night and day compared to last month's meeting. I left tonight's meeting raring to go, ready to take action! I love being a YSA!!
I can't express my heartfelt gratitude enough to my Father in heaven for the opportunity to stay here to serve in the YSA program, to sing in Women's Ensemble and play in band at school, to be excited about life once again!
May we each enjoy life to its fullest!
You may be asking what this course alteration is. Well, I'll tell you! I am not moving to Logan, UT after Christmas as previously planned!I am super excited to stay here and continue my schooling at home, be part of the YSA program, and have fun without worrying what comes next! Eventually, I'll move to Logan, but it won't be until at least July. Who knows, I might decide to serve a mission after this school year is out. I might meet the man of my dreams and find myself rushing off to get married. I have no idea what will be next in my life. All roads are open at this point. I just know that finishing this school year is what I need to do!
I'm really excited to continue serving on the Multi-Stake Committee for a while longer. I'm going to enjoy it very much. I attended my second meeting tonight, and this meeting was almost night and day compared to last month's meeting. I left tonight's meeting raring to go, ready to take action! I love being a YSA!!
I can't express my heartfelt gratitude enough to my Father in heaven for the opportunity to stay here to serve in the YSA program, to sing in Women's Ensemble and play in band at school, to be excited about life once again!
May we each enjoy life to its fullest!
16 October 2008
Visiting Logan
This last weekend, I visited Logan, UT for the first time to check out the town, along with other things.
I love Logan!!! It is one of the neatest towns I've ever been to. Cache Valley is so beautiful with its mixture of fall foliage and evergreen trees! Logan feels like a small town in some parts, but it also feels like a big town when you walk down main street. As I looked over the valley, I felt like I was at home. The colors, the smell of trees were similar to that at home.
The very first thing I saw upon entering Logan was the temple! It's amazing at night. I also had the chance to walk along the grounds of the temple. I was overwhelmed by the beauty and strength this temple has. The hymn that played over and over in my head was "A Mighty Fortress is Our God". The Logan Temple exhibits the Lord's strength to me. It can be seen around the entire valley, from almost everywhere! I am looking forward to having that daily reminder of the Lord's love for His children.
I am so excited to live there with a temple right there, tons of living history, and many new friends to make. One of the girls I sat by in Relief Society on Sunday suggested that I start looking for apartments now in order to have one when I move after Christmas. So, that's what I did today! I starting looking for apartments. I made a bunch of phone calls to find out availability, rates, and information about possible apartments I would want to live in. After all that, I found one I feel will suit my needs perfectly. I can't express enough how excited I am to head on this grand adventure in December!
Now comes the hardest part... waiting and preparing for it to start!
I love Logan!!! It is one of the neatest towns I've ever been to. Cache Valley is so beautiful with its mixture of fall foliage and evergreen trees! Logan feels like a small town in some parts, but it also feels like a big town when you walk down main street. As I looked over the valley, I felt like I was at home. The colors, the smell of trees were similar to that at home.
The very first thing I saw upon entering Logan was the temple! It's amazing at night. I also had the chance to walk along the grounds of the temple. I was overwhelmed by the beauty and strength this temple has. The hymn that played over and over in my head was "A Mighty Fortress is Our God". The Logan Temple exhibits the Lord's strength to me. It can be seen around the entire valley, from almost everywhere! I am looking forward to having that daily reminder of the Lord's love for His children.I am so excited to live there with a temple right there, tons of living history, and many new friends to make. One of the girls I sat by in Relief Society on Sunday suggested that I start looking for apartments now in order to have one when I move after Christmas. So, that's what I did today! I starting looking for apartments. I made a bunch of phone calls to find out availability, rates, and information about possible apartments I would want to live in. After all that, I found one I feel will suit my needs perfectly. I can't express enough how excited I am to head on this grand adventure in December!
Now comes the hardest part... waiting and preparing for it to start!
14 October 2008
Life's Puzzle
These last few months, I have forgotten the biggest lesson I learned from my experiences in Russia: Life changes quickly.
It seems that the only thing consistent in life is change. Usually, the biggest changes happen without notice or warning. While I'm thankful for the growth I gain from life's changes, I wish I could be more prepared for them.
I've learned that life is like a puzzle. Well, my puzzle was turned upside down this weekend. I have to figure out how all the pieces fit together now that some of them have changed.
Even though I feel very confused and lost in completing my puzzle, I know that the Lord is with me. He knows where all the pieces are and how they fit together. I am determined to place more trust in Him as I undertake this huge task of rearranging the pieces of my life.
Wish me luck!
It seems that the only thing consistent in life is change. Usually, the biggest changes happen without notice or warning. While I'm thankful for the growth I gain from life's changes, I wish I could be more prepared for them.I've learned that life is like a puzzle. Well, my puzzle was turned upside down this weekend. I have to figure out how all the pieces fit together now that some of them have changed.
Even though I feel very confused and lost in completing my puzzle, I know that the Lord is with me. He knows where all the pieces are and how they fit together. I am determined to place more trust in Him as I undertake this huge task of rearranging the pieces of my life.
Wish me luck!
04 October 2008
A Hand in All Things
Today, I was again reminded that the Lord's hand is in all things. Earlier this week, I had received a call asking me if I would play the organ for a funeral. A man from my former stake had passed away. The people asking me to play had called several organists from the stake finding none that could play. They asked a high councilor if they had any suggestions, and my name was put forth.
I agreed to play and give of my talents. What I didn't know was that my grandpa would be in attendance at the funeral. I had thought he might be there, but I wasn't sure. It was good to see him afterwards. My grandpa knew the couple who had asked me to play, and they were surprised to learn I was his granddaughter. The wife commented, "Now, I know why you are so special!"
That just made my day! I love being my grandpa's granddaughter! I'd never deny being part of his family, and I am so thankful to have such a family legacy being left for me.
I love you, Grandpa!
I agreed to play and give of my talents. What I didn't know was that my grandpa would be in attendance at the funeral. I had thought he might be there, but I wasn't sure. It was good to see him afterwards. My grandpa knew the couple who had asked me to play, and they were surprised to learn I was his granddaughter. The wife commented, "Now, I know why you are so special!"
That just made my day! I love being my grandpa's granddaughter! I'd never deny being part of his family, and I am so thankful to have such a family legacy being left for me.
I love you, Grandpa!
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