Fashion Show, fashion show, fashion show at lunch!

My roomie Steph and I. She did my hair and I loved it!
I love my hair!!

Cadet Liening and me :)

So here are all the pics my roomie took. I had a great night and loved getting all dressed up.

2 A.M.

BYU ROTC Army Ball, swing dancing, more swing dancing at a local cafe until 2 A.M.

I am exhausted and my legs hurt.

Pics of me in my beautiful dress to come!

Great night. Good times.

Peace out.

Missionaries

Four days until my cousin, Elder Blaine Chadwick, returns from his mission. He has been serving in the Denver Colorado South mission - spanish speaking. Sixty-four days until my friend from high school, Elder Michael Hanson, returns from the Philippines Bacalod mission. I cannot believe how fast two years goes by (in retrospect of course). I am very proud of Elder Chadwick for his decision to serve and for doing so with excitement and dedication. Elder Hanson has overcome many trials during his mission and I hold him in the greatest respect. I have seen how serving a mission not only blesses the life of the missionary, but also the lives of the family members they left at home. I cannot think of a greater life experience I could ask for my brother to have. It is my hope that Nelson will choose to serve a mission and dedicate his life to serve the Lord for two years.

Dress for the ROTC Ball

Here is a picture of my dress for the Army ROTC Ball. I love it! Unfortunately, I don't have it yet because there are some alterations that have to be made. But, I will have it in time for the ball!!

December 6, 2008

Event Schedule for December 6, 2008:

Wake up.

Do homework.

Shower.

Do hair.

Do makeup.

Get dressed.

Go to BYU Army ROTC Ball.

Yup, that's right! Saturday night at the BYU Swing Kids weekly swing dance, I was asked to the BYU Army ROTC Ball. I guess this is a pretty big event. All the girls will be in formals and all the gentlemen will be in their dress uniforms. Can you imagine how great they will all look? I'm pretty much REALLY excited to be going. I've never been to anything like this and I just know that my date and I are going to have a wonderful time. So, if anyone knows what goes on at an event like this I would really appreciate some information so I know what to expect.

Photo Tag!

Happy Halloween! This is a pic of my dearest friend Estelle and me on campus on Halloween. Estelle is dressed and painted up as Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West. I am just looking precious in a T-shirt my mum bought for me. What a great Halloween!

Happy Birthday Mom

Yesterday was my mother's birthday and I would just like to take a moment to express my deep love and appreciation for her. The longer I live away from home the more I appreciate the little things she still does for me even when I'm a few states away (like buying me ten packages of Ikea napkins for my birthday because she remembers how cool I've always thought they are). I love that I can call her and from California she can make things here in Utah seem a little more manageable. My mother is the most selfless, wonderful person I know, and I admire her for her unwavering dedication to the Gospel, her callings and our family. My mother is always thinking of others. For my mother's birthday I got a package from her with a beautiful necklace inside and pictures of my siblings.

She is my role model.

Thank you for everything you have ever done for me. Thank you for your continued support. Thank you for pushing me to follow my dreams and continually reminding me of the things that matter the most to me.

I love you Mom. Happy Birthday.

Journal Jar Question #2

Where do you like to go to eat out? What do you order?

I like to eat out at several places. I do admit that some restaurants have captured my attention more completely lately.

Panda Express: Nothing says comfort food like a plate of fried rice accompanied by orange and mandarin chicken.

Chili's: This used to be my absolute favorite place to eat. One fateful day, the menu was changed and my favorite dish, tuna steak, was removed to make way for some other dish that was highly mediocre I'm sure.

Wendy's: Best fast food out there besides In 'N Out. Seeing as how Provo is not the host to an In 'N Out, Wendy's becomes the front runner.

Eddie's Sports Deli: This is a new place a girl in my ward showed me. It's on Center Street in Orem across from Target and next to Papa Murphey's. Their breakfast sandwiches are amazing! I bet their others are just as good, but I've only had one: The Champ. Eggs, bacon, sausage, and cheese on a Kaiser roll. Mmm....mmm...good!

Bajio: Mexican place. Closest thing to Los Gringos I can find so I make do.

And just for Mater and Jacob - La Dolce Vida: I've only been there twice but it made quite the impact on Jacob and Laura. Or more accurately, our waiter Chet, made a great first impression. So good, in fact, that Jacob wants Chet to play Edward in the upcoming Twilight movie because I guess Robert Pattinson is not attractive enough.

Family favorites: The Old Spaghetti Factory and CPK (California Pizza Kitchen). Tasty!

84 Days

Does anyone know any good ways to count down to a certain day? I know the whole paper-chain thing but I'm looking for something else. Don't get me wrong, I'm not bashing on the paper-chain-as-a-countdown idea. I just would like to know if there are any other ideas. Thanks!

P.S. Maybe the Chadwick's could use these ideas in relation to Elder Chadwick's homecoming. December 5, 2008!!!! Yay Elder Chadwick!

Does this make me a geek?

Okay, I just found this video on YouTube. It's amazing.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lk5_OSsawz4

Watch it. Love it.

May the force be with you.

New Playlist

Howdy folks! Blog update...again...

I have updated my blog playlist and have some serious reccomendations for you.
While all of the songs on this playlist are amazing, if you have not heard the following songs I am very sorry for you. Hurry up and listen good.

• Gimme A Chance - Plain White T's
• Princes and Frogs - Superchic[k]
• Grace Kelly - Mika
• The Middle - Jimmy Eat World
• Sweet Child of Mine - Guns n' Roses
• Tribute - Tenacious D

Tenacious D is a two-man rock group featuring Jack Black. That's right. In fact, check out the music video for Tribute. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pcJwz7wu8_s It's pretty much amazing. If you like that one, check out Wonder Boy. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CSfkuOBpJxU Word of warning: most of Tenacious D's repetoire is not exactly "For the Strength of Youth" worthy. So don't watch or listen to anything else by them.

I pretty much LOVE "Grace Kelly." That song plays at the beginning of What Happens in Vegas which fits that movie perfectly.

"Princes and Frogs" was played for me by a friend of mine and I totally loved it. I mean, how could you not?

I had the ending of the chorus to "Gimme A Chance" stuck in my head all day once and I could not for the life of me remember the title of the song. My friends even texted Cha Cha and they didn't know the title either! It was maddening to say the least.

Anyways, here is my new playlist. Hope you like it!

Journal Jar Question #1

Tell about the house(s) you lived in during your childhood. Do you remember the addresses or phone numbers?

Hold on to your hats folks. This is going to be one lengthy discussion of my childhood. Seeing as how my family moved approximately every three to four years I have had several dwellings.

Orem, Utah: Happy Birth of me! My parents pride and joy. I was born October 3, 1988 in American Fork, Utah. Not only was this a big day for my parents, my aunt Sherry also had a rather exciting day. She won a handmade quilt and pillow in a raffle at the hospital. Yay homemade crafted gifts! My first home was a bottom floor apartment in Orem, Utah. I was very jaundice as a baby and had to lay in an incubator wearing shades and chillaxin under the light. I was destined to be a California girl. My family went back a few years ago so I could see my first home and all I remember is that the building is brown. I believe my mom told me that the snow would cover up the windows because we were on the bottom floor.

Glendale, California: Birth of Nelson! Not nearly as exciting as me coming into the world (of course) but still pretty fun. This apartment complex was a couple of floors. The front entrance of the building was covered in blue tiles. Kinda strange, but hey, it's Glendale. From pictures I would dance and sing to Wizard of Oz and probably any other Disney movie.

Beaverton, Oregon: Birth of Jane! Yay for my first little sister! I loved Oregon. I loved the rain, the beautiful landscapes, and of course, the Tillamook cheese. This house was at the corner of a cul da sac and it was beautiful. It was white with green trim. The backyard sloped down to the street and we had a white picket fence. Inside the house, we had a sliding door that separated the hall from the kitchen. A "Don't Eat Pete" game board got stuck back behind the door. I'm not pointing fingers, but I'm pretty sure Nelson is to blame! Oregon is also where I broke my arm by falling off the monkey bars. From then on, no monkey bars for me.

Valencia, California: Birth of Katie! Yay for my littlest sister! Valencia was a good time. We moved into a brand new neighborhood. It was so new that there were still houses being built at the end of our cul da sac. Also it was so new that a few streets had no houses on them! My friends Noelle, Brittany, and I would ride our bikes in the dirt. It was a party. Our family got our first dog, Burnsey here in Valencia. Our house was very clean looking. Our front lawn however was a disaster. We could have had an ogre living in the swamp that was our front lawn. I don't know why it was like that, but we could never get it to be dry. We had a garden on the side of our house complete with boysenberry bushes. The pro's of that house were the big backyard we were blessed with and the way cool jack-and-jill style kids rooms. We also had Grandma's old swing set and all that extra space in the backyard was great for jumping off the swings.

Fountain Valley, California: Ah, middle school and high school years. I loved it here. Fountain Valley was definitely my favorite place to call home. Our house was a behemoth though. Seriously. We had two master bedrooms; one of which had a closet so big that Jane called it her room for a while. Coolest feature of the house: the laundry shoot. I had never seen anything like that and I loved it! Worst part of the house (besides the size): all the windows downstairs coupled with the location of the house aka backing up to a busy street. I was always paranoid of being home alone at night downstairs. I figured that someone could hope the wall and come attack me. It was a legit fear! That and when we first got there, the windows had no curtains. Creepy! The schools were amazing. I loved our ward. Oh yeah, and we lived super close to the beach. I miss my beach cruiser. That thing was amazing. I could ride for hours! Another fav part of the house was my parents bathroom. Sick, nasty pink tile (even on the walls), plus a "beam me up Scotty" shower, plus a jet tub. Okay, the jet tub was pretty sweet. I'll give the bathroom props for that. Also, my room in that house was amazing! I went on a pioneer trek with our Stake and when I got home Diana and Kyle made me wait downstairs because they had decorated my room and it wasn't done yet. If I'm not mistaken, Kyle was getting candles or potpourri or something very similar. I LOVED THAT ROOM!! Yellow walls, purple velvet comforter, floral curtains, white furniture with gold accents...amazing. I was so sad to leave that house. Thanks again Diana and Kyle!

And most recently, though most likely not last...La Crescenta, California: Yay for turning sixteen, going to my first high school dance, getting my driver's licence, graduating high school all in this house. Smaller than the FV house, but more put together. We live on a mountain so the house is a tri-level. Parents, Jane, and Katie room upstairs; family, living, dining rooms and kitchen on middle floor; Nelson's bachelor pad and garage downstairs. I love looking out the back windows down on Los Angeles especially at night or on a clear day. Complete with pool and fire pit this house is the ultimate hang-out place. It sure helps that my mom feeds everyone who comes over! This house faces the Los Angeles National Forest although it doesn't look like much of a forest to me. I love this house and love coming home from college to this beautiful home and to my family. Fountain Valley may have been my favorite place to live, but home is wherever my family resides. Love at home!

Journal Jar

I am not the most dilligent journal writer...or blogger for that matter. While I was contemplating my lack of motivation to write in my journal I remembered a journal jar I made while in Young Women's. Last night I pulled it out and read the instructions on the jar which reads as follows: "This little jar celebrates something very important - YOU! If you will follow a simple plan, you will find that before this time net year, you will have a very personal, Personal History finished! All you need to do is draw out one slip of paper each day (or at least once a week - but it will take longer to finish this way.) ON it you will find a question. Spend a few minutes and just enjoy remembering. Then paste the question at the top of a blank page, and begin to tell all about it."
In the spirit of being a better person I am going to answer a Journal Jar Question at least once a week right here on this blog. This way, not only am I writing my Personal History, I am also updating my blog. Woohoo!

Tears?

I'm gonna be honest with you...I'm not a crier. I do have my semester-ly breakdown where I completely lose it and cry for hours on end about some ridiculous thing like satanic teachers, lack of a social life, or just plain homework. This cry fest is very upsetting and always results in a headache and me going to bed early. I hate headaches. Maybe that's why I only go off the deep end once a semester. Why am I sharing this with you? Because this week I cried over something really, really, embarrassingly LAME.
On the TV Channel, MyStyle, there is a show called "Whose Wedding Is It Anyway?" In this show, procrastinating brides hire a wedding planner to help them race to the altar in style and sophistication. Oh yeah, and the wedding planner usually has some interesting obstacle to deal with. For example, a pregnant bride, the bride wants a Gothic wedding, there are only two weeks left to plan the wedding, plan a wedding in NYC where just about every elected official in the state (plus the neighboring states) has been invited and so on. This week I was watching an episode during the hour break I have between classes and this particular episode featured an older couple getting married after having lived together for three years. On top of that, the bride had just finished battling breast cancer. The groom proposed to her before she started her treatments, and the next year her cancer was gone. I cannot tell you how amazing it was to see the love these two people felt for each other. The bride was the most precious thing in the groom's life and she was eternally grateful for his support and unfailing love through her trials with breast cancer. At their reception, the two presented toasts for the other and I cried! OH MY GOSH!! Basically, it was so precious and perfect that I couldn't help it! This is what happens when you come to BYU. Everyone is getting engaged, married, pregnant and it's like a fever: it's catching. Even if, like me, you don't feel 100% ready to be married, you still want it really badly. And dating, or a lack thereof, is NO fun so you end up feeling like you just want to get married so you don't have to date anymore. It's probably not wise to think of marriage as simply an end to dating. It's so much more than that but we just pushed around so much that marriage is viewed as an escape from the turbulent pool of dating. Anyway, the point is that I cried over something maybe not entirely as lame as I previously thought.

Tag, You're It!

Laura tagged me and since I know she actually looks at my blog I decided to respond to the tag with grace. Here goes.
High School: Fountain Valley HS and Crescenta Valley HS
1. Did you date someone from your high school: People at my high schools believed in either being friends, hanging out, or being in a relationship. Seeing as how I couldn't hang out with guys until I was 16 (because that was group dating), or have a bf at all in HS, this answer would be NO. There were guys that I liked but nothing ever serious happened. The end.
2. What kind of car did you drive? The white Toyota Tacoma that has stolen my heart. I LOVE THAT TRUCK!!! Really. I am most sad to know that my brother gets to drive it at home in CA. Now I drive a Toyota Corolla with Ken (yes, of the Barbie variety) in the center console in place of a boyfriend. Thanks Mom.
3. What was your most embarrassing moment in high school? No thanks. It was bad.
4. Were you a party animal? Not really.
6. (Hey, what happened to #5?) Were you in band, orchestra, or choir?: Yes, no, and heck yes.
7. Were you a nerd? : Seeing as how I was in marching band AND choir, I think I well fulfilled that stereotype.
8. Were you on any varsity teams? : I got a letter for band. Does that count?
9. Did you get suspended/expelled? : Of course not!
10. Can you still sing the fight song? : Our fight songs were the same: "Sons of Westwood" which just happens to be the fight song for UCLA. I don't know if there are any words. I know the Alma Mater for CVHS though. I sang it at graduation!
11. Who were your favorite teachers? : Mr. Collins: freshman physical science, Mrs. Alderman: CVHS choir director, Mr. Schick: CVHS band director, and Mr. Furutani: senior English (and most attractive at that).
12. Where did you sit during lunch?: Depends on the year. Freshman: Mormon hill. Sophomore: Mrs. Marquez's room (HQ for Baron Bridge Builders). Junior: Mormon corner. Senior: choir room and occasionally, the band room.
13. School Mascot? FVHS Barons CVHS Falcons
14. Did you go to homecoming and with who?: Junior year I went with Travis Sage a guy from my ward. Senior year I went with Eric Collyer who was in the other ward that met in our building, varsity football player, singer, and math genius extraordinaire.
15. If you could go back and do it again, would you? Probably not. Although it would be interesting to see what my life would be like if I hadn't moved after my sophomore year.
16. What do you remember most about graduation?: Singing the Alma Mater and having ice cream with Annalise in Disneyland at 3am. Good times!
17. Where did you go senior skip day?: I wasn't allowed to skip. My teachers skipped. But I didn't.
18. Were you in any clubs? : Baron Bridge Builders.
19. Have you gained weight since then?: Nope!
20. Who was your prom date?: I didn't go to prom. I went to D-Land with three of my friends and we had a blast! We had more fun than the people who went to prom!
21. Are you planning on going to your 10 year reunion?: I don't know. Probably not seeing as how I went to two different high schools.
22. Looking back, what advice would you give yourself?: Change is a good thing. Don't be such a brat about moving.

Tags: Annalise, Estelle, and Lindsey! Do this ladies!

Mr. Darcy and Signor Benedict

While these men do not share much in common, I will elaborate on my current state of life using them as a catalyst for thought. Today after church, my roommate and I decided to indulge our girlish whims and watch the A&E version of "Pride and Prejudice" in its five-hour glorified entirety. It has been many years since I have had the pleasure of watching this fine piece of cinematic joy and I thoroughly enjoyed myself. Mr. Darcy (Colin Firth) was outstanding as ever. This time around, I noticed that Mr. Darcy had begun to pay attention to Elizabeth while she was enjoying some lovely conversation and turns around rooms, gardens and the like with other men. Does this sort of thing really capture a man's attentions? I mean, really? Does a woman need to shuffle about with other men so that Mr. Right will start paying attention? Now, I do not speak from experience. I have never had this sort of trick work. In fact, I believe it to be quite dangerous. If the game is played too long, indifference is deduced and the chase is forgotten. Unfortunately, in this case, I speak from a little recent experience.
After more than two agonizing months I have come to two conclusions. First: You boys don't get it. Girls are not to be called upon whenever you are bored or hungry. We have much better things to be doing with our time. However, we mistake your call for excitement and baked goods as a hint of interest and we're hooked. Stop fooling around. Make up your mind. Leading girls on in the pursuit of free desserts and a game night is, in the words of my high school musical director, "mean spirited." If you are truly not interested, be clear so we can just move on. Second: It is high time you learned to distinguish which girls are worth your time and emotions. Let me give you a hint: Girls who ignore, or verbally abuse and ridicule you are NOT worth it. Stop talking to them. Remember those girls in high school who thrived on drama? If you're college-age lady friend fits this description, re-think her influence on your thinking, self-esteem and life. Good grief! Why do boys go for girls who have issues? Who cause issues? How is that becoming and attractive? Get out there and do something with your life. Be more than a video game addict and whiner. Be proactive. Serve someone. Learn how to do something new. Make a new friend. Become more connected with yourself. What is it you really want in life?
Signor Benedict may not have much in common with the previous thread of though. However, I also watched Shakespeare's "Much Ado About Nothing" and cannot leave out my favorite hero and heroine. Benedict versus Beatrice. Benedict, the self-proclaimed bachelor, is taken in by a hoax and ends up loving the very woman who returns his misguided affections. Good show. Love it. Haven't seen it? Rent it asap. It is hilarious and is filled with wit and merriment.

Moonlight Moments

You know those days when you feel reflective? Sentimental? Sometimes, I have those days. The sun is great and all, but I love the moon. Nothing compares to the simple beauty of moonlight shimmering on a lake. However, my absolute favorite image of the moon is similar to a sticker. Yup, that's right. A sticker. A full moon that looks like it has been fastened to the sky for one night. Have you ever seen this stage of the moon? I don't know, maybe I'm one of the priviledged few. Next time the sun is about to set, find the moon. See if you can catch her in her sticker phase.

Skillet Challenge

Last night, Friday, the 18th of July, two couples put their dancing skills to the test at the Golden Skillet in Sandy, Utah...and it was great! Both couples did wonderfully! Congrats to Ron and Clerece for winning the challenge :) From what I've heard, Scott and Melissa have re-challenged them. ::Eye of the Tiger begins to play:: Well, good luck to both on the re-match!

Here are the links to their fast dances:
Scott and Melissa:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S9EQPh4Vrys&feature=related
Ron and Clerece: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W5HwbsSNd3U

BYU 106th Ward Musical Extravaganza

Wednesday night my ward had a musical extravaganza aka musical talent show. It went very well! There were not as many people there as I had hoped but still a fairly decent turn-out. We had ten acts and everyone did so well!
I sang a solo from The Land Before Time. I had my roomie's boyfriend record it on my camera so I could show my parents. I decided that it would be useful to put it here so my friends and family could watch it too. Why not? Hope you like it!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K5kyITM9FJI

Captain's Log 29 June 2008 Hawaii Trip: Day 7

We got up at some ridiculous hour. No lie! Getting up before the rooster was both an accomplishment and a victory. Our flight left right on schedule at 7:10am. We landed at 3:30pm. By eight that evening we had done some laundry, re-packed, attempted to rest, and left for Arizona. Nelson, Jane, Jacob (our cousin), and Scott (Nelson's friend from Fountain Valley) are in Thatcher for EFY this week. We got to the Chadwick's at 3am. I immediately went to the room I knew I would be in and was asleep in moments.

This Hawaii trip with my family was very fun. I enjoyed spending time with my siblings and my parents. I love my family and am sad that I am not able to spend a lot of time with them other than on vacations. This was a nice break from the stresses of school, work, Church responsibilities, and social engagements but I am thrilled to be back in Utah for the summer.

Captain's Log 28 June 2008 Hawaii Trip: Day 6

Today we went to Waimea Valley. There we embarked on a gorgeous 3/4 of a mile-each way-nature walk. The destination: a waterfall. Much to Katie's disappointment there was no waterfall and very little water in the pool below due to lack of rain. Very sad.

We stopped for lunch and then parted for the afternoon: Mum and Nelson to the PCC to watch the island shows we missed (particularly Samoa) and the rest of us went to Kualoa Ranch. Kualoa is the filming destination of Jurassic Park, 50 First Dates, and (my fav) LOST :D I was thrilled to be there. It was SO COOL!! That evening we got all packed p and ready to leave the following morning.

Captain's Log 27 June 2008 Hawaii Trip: Day 5

Today may well be summed up in the title of a national holiday: Memorial Day. The fam and I left Laie early for Pearl Harbor. There, we would visit the USS Arizona Memorial, USS Missiouri, and USS Bowfin. I have been to this hallowed site twice before so I knew what to expect. Or, more accurately, I thought I knew. We started with the USS Bowfin (a submarine), then the USS Missouri, and then, finally, the USS Arizona. To be honest, the USS Arizona isn't the most exciting memorial I've been to; the ship is the same, the building is no different, and the chapel, while humbling, is static as well.

My favorite part of this memorial has nothing to do with a sunken boat or a pretty white building in a harbor. While standing in the center of the memorial you are free to gaze in any direction through the gaps in the wall. I spent a good deal of time looking up through the ceiling where the flag of the United States of America fluttered in the harbor wind. Interestingly enough, the flag is posted at the center of the memorial: the lowest point. The building symbolizes the forward, onward progression of the Spirit of America. That low-point, over the sunken hull of that great battleship, serves as a reminder that no matter how hard times may be, if we unite, the United States can come back stronger than ever and move forward with faith and hope.

The rest of the day was spent in Waikiki. Mum, Jane and I went to the International Marketplace while Dad, Nelson and Katie set off for the beach.

Captain's Log 26 June 2008 Hawaii Trip: Day 4

Today Dad, Nelson, Jane, and I did baptisms in the Laie, Hawaii Temple; it was a very interesting experience. The font is upstairs, which makes no sense to me. I thought that all the fonts were under the ground. The architecture reminds me of the Mayan and other ancient South American cultures. I know they are not the same as the Polynesian cultures. I'm just saying that their architecture looks similar.

The Polynesian Cultural Center was awesome as usual. I have a friend that is going to BYU-Hawaii and working at the PCC for the summer. I was hoping to see her there but I couldn't find her. We met an older couple from Newhall, California and a man who served as a missionary in our home ward for three months twenty years ago. He remember some of the people who are still in our ward. His name is Brother Mahoni.

After eating dinner at one of the buffets, we walked around the villages even though they were all closed for the evening. We stopped to take random pics. There was a group of youth practicing for what looked like a dance or some filming or something. The area they were in was roped off with Police tape.

We ended the evening by watching the Horizons show. I love watching this show! Most of it was the same from when I had been there before but there were some slight changes. My favorite is still the Tahitian dancers. It blows my mind that some girls can shake their hips like that! It looks so difficult! Props to them haha

Captain's Log 25 June 2008 Hawaii Trip: Day 3

It is eight in the morning here in Hawaii but since I'm still on California time I feel as though it is eleven. Dad, Jane and Katie already walked over to the beach just down the road. As a wake-up call we enjoyed a very loud and persistant rooster for many, many hours. Mum and Dad had picked up some breakfast items last night at FoodLand (Hawaii's SuperMarket) like cereal, bagels, cream cheese, and yogurt. In the kitchen there are tiny little bugs that are all over everything! It's pretty gross. We have to keep all of our food in the refrigerator.

Today we went looking for a superb snorkeling location called Shark's Cove. Never fear: no sharks. Unfortunately we were unable to find the cove so instead we went to Waimea Bay (just like in the Beach Boys song!!). The bay was very gorgeous and super calm. Being in the water was just like being in a giant swimming pool plus sand, spinner dolphins, fish, and sea turtles. On the west end of the bay was a huge rock that many people, including my borther, were jumping from into the water. Nelson ran into his friend Andy from back home. Andy and his older brother, Louie, came to Hawaii to visit a friend of Louie who lives in Waikiki. Seeing as how Waikiki and Waimea are on opposite ends of the island we were very lucky to have run into each other.

After the beach we ended inland to the Dole Pineapple Plantation: Home to the World's Largest Maze! Dad, Jane, Katie, and I tackled that maze and found all eight "secret" stations. From doing the maze in flip-flops I developed new blisters on my toes making it impossible to simultaneously wear shoes and walk. Let's just say it made the rest of the day real interesting.

Mum and I did Pick-A-Pearl. Mum let Katie choose her oyster and there were twins inside! So mum had them set as earrings. My oyster only had one pearl in it but its pink! I love it :D I had it set as a necklace and I cannot wait to start wearing it. Dad bought Nelson a beautiful ukulele for his upcoming birthday. Nelson is very talented at the ukulele; he has written some of his own songs.
I stayed up until almost eleven o' clock Hawaii time watching "Jon and Kate Plus 8." I don't even like that show! There are too many kids, a high level of stress, and it makes me scared to have kids haha Not really but having eight kids under the age of six? No thanks!

Captain's Log 24 June 2008 Hawaii Trip: Day 2

As I mentioned before, our original flight yesterday was cancelled. Currently I am sitting in a luxorious cocoon with a down duvet and pillow. We have not taken off yet but wer've already ordered dinner and drinks for later in the flight. First class is amazing! The seats recline fully into a bed and I have never had so much leg room in my life. Maitenience is checking a seat two rows in front of me. I suppose that since we're in First Class, all seats must be working properly before we can head out.

I am thoroughly enjoying my lounge chair, warm blanket and soothing atmosphere. For dinner I am having the following (Quoted from the menu):

To Begin

• Tropical Mixed Nuts
• Fresh seasonal Greens accented with Asparagus and Daikon Radish Ribbons, offered with a choice of Greek Vinaigrette or Spicy Oriental Dressing.

Main Course

• Beef Filet: Teriyaki-glazed Filet of Beef accompanied by Broccolini, and Basmatic Rice with Ginger-Cilantro Pesto.

Dessert

• Vanilla Ice Cream with a choice of HOT FUDGE, Strawberry or Sweet Coffee Toppings, Whipped Cream and Chopped Walnuts

(Why do they capitalize all the ingredients?)

The rest of the flight went smoothly. We got our rental car from Avis and drove about forty-five minutes to Laie. We are staying in the upstairs condo of a home called Normz Place. We have a kitchen, living room, three bedrooms (two beds in each), and a bathroom. Nelson and I share a room. Its super cute and is within walking distance of the PCC, Laie Temple, BYU-Hawaii campus, and of course, the beach.

Hawaii Trip Day 1

Captains Log
Day One: Hawaii Trip 2008

Today began our journey to Hawaii as a family. We departed our home at about noon to head for the Los Angeles International Airport. Our flight was set to take off at 3:15pm. We arrived, checked our bags, and entered the terminal. As my family secured a sections of seats in the waiting area I thought to myself "Now what on earth am I going to do for two hours before we board the plane?"
Within the hour another plane pulled up to another gate in the area surrounded by firemen and trucks. Firemen came and put up police tape around a section of the seating area and asked everyone in that area to please relocate. Turns out there was a wiring problem in that plane. So they emptied the plane and gave them the one that was to fly us to beautiful Hawaii. The attendents estimated an hour wait. Four o' clock rolls round...still no plane to take us to our destination. Then we learn that the plane with the wiring problem is under repair in the hopes that within a few hours it will be able to carry us across the Pacific Ocean.
No worries! Nelson taught be a new card game. Or rather, a variation of a card game I already knew. We played the same game for at least an hour and a half with Nelson beating me royally. Finally at about seven thirty we receive food vouchers from the airline: ten dollars a person. Dad, Jane, Katie and I head off to Chili's and order one of just about everything on the appetizer menu. As we are waiting in line I get a call on my cell phone from my mum. Our flight was cancelled. Luckily she was fourth in line to talk to the attendents and my dad sprinted off to join her in line. One of the sharply dressed attendents pulled my dad aside and told him the best news we had received all day. All six of us were going to be put on a flight together the following day: in first class. That's right. Tomorrow afternoon at 3:15pm my family will be heading off to Hawaii riding first class at no extra charge.
Overall I think the only person who was becoming impatient was my mum. Dad, Nelson, Jane and I had a grand time playing cards and joking around. Katie had toys and coloring books and her iPod to entertain her. Poor Mum.
It is now eleven o' clock in the evening. After arriving home Jane and I drove Nelson to hang out with some friends and the two of us went to Ross for its final ten minutes of operation. Jane and I then came home to play Mozart together on the piano while Katie enjoyed a shower and Disney Channel.
Amongst all this chaos of our Hawaii trip being postponed and the like, I received news that a massive typhoon hit the Philippines yesterday right where a dear friend of mine is serving a mission. Luckily he was able to call home at two in the morning and his sister let me know that he is doing well (just a little wet).

Memory Loss

All of the sudden I was awake. I looked over at my roommate's alarm clock.

6:38am.

Are you kidding me? Why am I awake? Oh well. Shower time.

Wait...what am I wearing...
Why am I still in my clothes from yesterday? Dress pants, diamond earrings, headband, socks...what the heck?!

I check my phone to make sure I haven't lost my mind. I never set an alarm for this morning.

I don't remember going to bed last night. All I remember is brushing my teeth and then plugging my phone in. After that, it's totally lost.

Later on today I came home from the Library and changed into my workout clothes for Aerobic Dance. I had twenty minutes before I needed to leave for class so I pulled out Preach My Gospel to pass the time.

Dozing off, I fought to maintain consciousness. I failed.

I woke up with ten minutes to spare and hastened for class. I got to the classroom and no one was there. I checked the clock. Twelve after. Someone should be here. I found another room with a computer in it to check my e-mail in case class was cancelled. No e-mail from my teacher.

I glance at the bottom right corner of the screen. Double take. 6:15pm? That's weird. This clock is wrong. I head back to the dance room and then a revelation occurs. I pull out my phone and check the time. 6:16pm. I had slept for an hour on the couch at home and had missed class.

Obviously not my day.

I Can't. I'm Going Swing Dancing.

How often have I used this title phrase in the last three weeks? Probably more often than thought possible. In March, my mum and I came to Provo for my cousin's wedding, to find me a place to live, and most importantly, for me to check out the swing scene here at BYU. I went to their Saturday night dance with some of my friends and was a little disappointed. I understand that most of the swingers were off in Sacramento at some Lindy exchange. Normal. I was hoping to have some huge turn-out with amazing dancers! In the absence thereof, I made it my mission to become involved in the Swing Kids club and hopefully recruit some people to the exciting world that is Swing. Fate placed her hand in this mission of mine in a very big way. (Picture 1: Mum and me at the wedding reception.)

Back in February I went to USU's Harlem Nights with my friend William. We spent the Saturday in workshops with Skye and Frieda, two of the most amazing Lindy-hoppers the world has ever known. That night we attended a dance with a live band and had the time of our lives despite me being slightly wounded during a turn. Never fear, I fully recovered. At said Lindy workshop weekend, I danced with a very, very tall guy who was a student at BYU. When I came down to BYU in March the same very tall guy was there again! So we danced again. After moving in to my new apartment I was poking around on the Swing Kids Website and decided to e-mail the President volunteering my services in any capacity namely publicity, equipment hauling and the like. Shockingly the President replied to my e-mail and the connection was made. The very tall guy I had danced with previously was in fact the President of the Swing Kids. (Picture 2: Lindsey Messer and me at BYU's Saturday Night Swing.)

I have now been designated Friday night driver to the Golden Skillet in Sandy: the place to be for any serious swinger in Utah. Regular folks in my car include my friend Estelle, Ransom (the President and very tall guy), and a new kid, James. From then on, Ransom has willingly introduced me to just about every "regular" in the entire state of Utah. I've met people from Logan, Sandy, and good ole Provo.

I have moved around a lot in my life and have always been grateful for my involvement with music for giving me a friend base I could rely on. Marching band and choir were huge for me in High School because I knew that I would have instant friends no matter where I went. The move from BYU-Idaho to BYU was not so sure. I wouldn't have marching band or choir to fall back on. I would have the Church, yes, but that really doesn't narrow down the field a whole lot when you're in Utah. This time around it has been my passion for swing dancing and my desire to be involved that has propelled me into a group of friends I thoroughly enjoy being around. We can all get together three times a week and just dance our hearts out.

Live. Love. Laugh. Lindy. This is the poster I have hanging in my room. Dancing makes me happy. Every time I come home from dancing my roommate informs me that I'm glowing again. Who could ask for anything more?

Introductions

Hello! And welcome to my blog. I have had this thing since February but really never had any sort of motivation to actually use it. In the past week, two of my friends have invited me to view their blogs so I thought to myself, "Self, why not use your blog?" Ta-da! Usage.

I am currently a student at Brigham Young University. After being here for three weeks I have officially decided that I am having the time of my life. The campus is huge and I still don't know what half the buildings are but I know which ones I need to get to for classes. My roommates are pretty sweet. Two of them are camp counselors so they are only around on the weekends. My other roommate is amazing! We get along so well. My new ward is teeny-tiny but I enjoy the intimate atmosphere. Apparently no one really leaves the ward and therefore everyone knows everyone else. Seeing as how I'm a new person in the ward, it hasn't taken long for a whole lot of people to know me by name where I'm still struggling to remember who's in my FHE group.

My major is English Language and my minor is Music. I hope to work for the Faculty Editing Service on campus one day after I've actually taken some ELang classes.

So that is the intro to me, my blog and my new life here at BYU.