Ready Already

So..I am so so so ready to go home. I think that a week is the longest period of time known to man. I am also very stressed to consider that the weather may prevent me from getting there (let's all pray that doesn't happen..as bad things will then occur). I am excited at getting to see all the children..and meeting Ryder! I would also like to add, that just the idea that the Jon Willdens might make an appearance is just fabulous!! I am ready to relax for 17 days!! I think that christmas truly is on the 26th for me!! Just thought I would try and share my excitement!! Love you all!!

something random

So here are some pictures my friend bobbi, and vicki have taken of me. Thought you could use an update..especially since i just dyed my hair!! Its hot..huh?!

Late night at IHOP

At a soccer game with bobbi

At the midnight showing of Twilight. That's bobbi, and vicki.

turkey day

So..I only had 3 days off for thanksgiving..more than some people, I know..but not enough time to go anywhere..as I worked Tuesday night, and am currently at work (sat night)..so my very good friend Julie invited me to go with her to Ogden to spend the time with her older sister's family. They were so welcoming, and I had a great time. We played games, watched movies, ate TONS, and generally just had a good time. There was really only one point in all of that where I was sad beyond reason, and that was when they busted out the Christmas decorations. It just bugged me that I wasn't going to be there to help mom decorate and just the general before Christmas splendor, the music..all of it. *sigh* But onward and upward, right.

Well anyway, we had big plans for black friday, and the night before made a list of things we wanted..my list was short..but ended up alot bigger than planned..hmm...maybe there is a problem there. Julie's sister was really funny about it all, she really wanted these pots/pans and knife set, and was determined that we were going to get them...she even joked (well..maybe it was a joke) that we practice running drills the night before so we would be ready. So off to bed with us at oh..11:30..with the plan to get up at 2:45 to be at Kohl's in line before 3:30..(opened at 4)..and we get there..and yes, it's raining..and the line is not so bad..until about 3:40..and the line is wrapped almost all the way around the parking lot..insanity. Finally the doors open..and I run (yes..full on run) to the kid's section to look for some pj's for my nephews..had to scrap the idea because all I could find were girls..so I just went to stand in line..so we could be out of there FAST. We made it out by about 4:10, and then down the road to wal-mart...I know..but they were having a ridiculous sale on KitchenAid stand mixers and pre-lit Christmas trees. So we get there and Ihead straight for the mixers..there are 9. Total. That's it. And how many people are waiting to pounce..at least 11. So I stand there for about 10 min (Julie staked out the trees..no worries there) and then decide that while I REALLY want the mixer, technically I can afford to pay full price, and on principal I can't really see myself taking one from someone who was rightfully there before me. So I give up and go round up lights and other various items to decorate with. On to Old Navy, where I was able to find fleece outfits for my nephews (of which there are 5..and yeah..I didn't remember that when I was there..so I ended up having to go back later that night..whatever). Then to Michael's where the lighted garland/wreath set was a shocking $10. Then..and finally..time to go home and go to bed. It was like 6:30-45. Exhausting..but not in all reality that bad..as Julie's older sister and husband went back to Kohl's and got me a KitchenAid (on sale..just not AS on sale as the wal-mart one) and other various things and spent 2 hours in line. 2 hours I spent blissfully sleeping. To be honest Friday seemed like two different days..the black friday early morning ridiculousness..and then the one later..where I watched the third Harry Potter movie (yeah, I finished the book, and no..didn't really like the movie) and went back out to brave the crowds..to watch Australia (which I highly recommend..very moving..and Hugh Jackman is beautiful). Overall it was a really fun, but exhausting day. Basically I didn't do anything else with my time there, but sleep. I was really grateful for Julie's family welcoming me and making the holiday a very good one. Hope everyone's days were wonderful and full of family, friends, and of course food.

the five..again..

So I kinda already did this..but for Jennie's benefit..I will do it again. Also..I am at work and have nothing else to do.

Places I've lived:
1. Provo, UT
2. Pinion Hills, CA
3. Longmont, CO
4. Fruitland, ID
5. Seymour, TX


Favorite Snacks: (if I can narrow it down)
1. Ice cream (i love, love, love it)
2. Chocolate
3. A combo of something sweet and something salty (like cheez-its and m&ms)
4. truffles (is that the correct spelling..also..i know these are mostly chocolate..so could technically be inculded in that one..but i love them so much..i had to list them seperately)
5. No bake cookies

Job's I've had:
1. Target team member
2. RN-in Provo
3. LVN-in seymour (best job so far)
4. I don't know what my title was but when I was a senior and for the summer after I worked with my dad doing construction work..he installed security systems in prisons..so whatever.
5. Allsups convience store clerk

Thing's I'd do with $1Million
1. Pay off "the company's" debt
2. Pay off my own loans
3. Travel
4. Land/real estate
5. Ensure we as a family had everything we needed for food storage/emergency preparedness

Things I love:
1. Family (and to me this includes my immediate and extended family and my very best friends)
2. Reading (and yes I am reading Harry Potter, am on book 3, but haven't started it yet. I just love books!!)
3. Being near the ocean or other body of water
4. Playing games (card games, sports, basically anything remotely competitive)
5. Church


People I am tagging:
1. Keri
2. Annie
3. Auntie..and the rest of the family
4. Ryann
5. Sheitman

i am

So..I went ahead and took the plunge and started reading Harry Potter..much to the delight of everyone it seems. I am in the first book..so don't tell me anything about what happens..I am trying to get through it..and have found that indeed the books are better than the movies..at least as far as I can tell.

I went on a date with a friend on Friday night to a murder mystery thing..and it was fun..there were a lot of people there..and the murder was solved in a really ridiculous way..and since I am not completely ridiculous my group did not guess it right..so did not win, which is fine really...because the prize was sparkling cider. Then we played games..and then I went home to watch 27 dresses with my new pseudo-roomates. They are really my next door neighbors..Jamie, Bobbi, Vicki, and Tacie..but they have adopted me and I stay at their house most days (and nights sometimes) which seems to be making life easier. I love these girls. We have so much fun together!!

Vicki, Jamie, Bobbi and I went on a girls-ask-guys group date on Saturday. It seriously was so much fun. My date turned out to be a guy I am pretty fond of..but was my original intended date..as the guy I asked first got sick and couldn't go. But my date was so fun..and he is one of the most amazing guys I know! We started by going to pick them up (which just required walking to the other side of the complex), and going on photo scavenger hunt in groups of four..(me and my date, Jamie and hers)..which was SOO fun!! We had to take pictures of all these random things, and search for various items in the area..and just in case you were wondering..they no longer have phone booths in Provo..I know..we looked everywhere! After the photo scavenger...and some general banter with the other group over who really won (when really, in truth, both teams cheated slightly), we had dessert and played a card game called Nerts..which is very fun..and we all seemed to be evenly matched..so it made the competition good. Then we broke out the popcorn and love sacs (which are super large bean bags) and watched Transformers (bad idea I might mention)..I fell asleep during the movie..but it was fun anyway. Then we walked the guys home (proper dates after all), and then us girls ate more food, and watched part of wedding planner..as we were all very very tired and wanted some sleep!!

So that was are awesome date night, and now all I can hope for is the prospect of a second date, but either way it was really fun!! My dad is doing better getting around on his broken ankle, and I am very grateful to my brother Jake for being with him right now! Might I encourage the rest of you to blog..that would be great...thanks! Also..enjoy the christmas music!!

what am i thinking?

I still am looking for a new job, though nothing has come of the search yet. But I go to work and do my job, and go on about my business. Dad broke his ankle the other day, I think yesterday, but my days all kind of run together, and I am going to be really honest, it bothered me once again that I could do NOTHING to help him. I mean I prayed for him, and trust that the Lord will look out for him, but I want to make sure that the doctors treated him right and that we are doing everything we can to prevent complications. I can't be in two places at once, however.

I have a confession, I watched a Harry Potter movie. I am sure this delights both Ryann and my dearest auntie and her children. I am really unhappy that I did watch it, and here is the reason...I now want to know what happens. I mean seriously. That is a dirty trick. I told my friend today, that I was even tempted to READ the books. I mean, I have been anti-Harry for many years, and was happy with that. Completely happy. Not to say that I will read them, because I most likely will NOT..as I have always said that I wasn't going to. So I may just watch the movies..or coerce a friend/family member to tell me what happens. Also..Jason Isaacs..who plays lucius malfoy or something like that..is kind of attractive. That's all..no more harry potter talk.

I am going on a date on saturday. I am kind of excited..ok just plain excited about it. This guy is a super fun nice guy in my ward. I asked him, which is not what I prefer, but a group of girls in my ward are doing this girls choice date night..so I joined in. And who knows, maybe he will then ask me on a date...

I am going to dye my hair soon..and by soon I mean within a weeks time..the grey hairs are once again emerging and I can't have that. So any suggestions on hair color would be much appreciated. And in case you don't know..I kind of like to go drastic. Let me know.

changes

So..I am NOT happy with the outcome of the general presidential election of this country, but I will say that for me, this just reinforces what I know about the state of the world. We are headed down a slippery-slope towards the END..and I am happy to report that my faith in the Lord and the prophet are stronger than ever. I feel for the people who look to Obama as a Savior instead of looking where they should, toward the Lord, but I voted, and it is over now..and we have to pick ourselves us, trust in the Lord, and do the things we know we are supposed to.

Moving on to exciting news, my brother Jordan and his wife Kayla welcomed a baby boy Ryder Edward Willden into the world on Nov 3rd. I am very excited that mom and baby are doing well. Hard to believe that my baby brother has a baby, but I am still very happy for all.

To take note, I am currently looking for another job, and perhaps a move to a different locale. I am not necessarily unhappy in Provo, but I am unhappy with my job and the direction in which my career is headed. I have since found out that I cannot get the degree I want from BYU, which was the whole point, so if I have to get it somewhere else, it just makes sense to move. No I don't know where yet, though moving to Salt Lake is an option I am considering. Also moving back to the great state of Texas is an option, but one I think I only consider because of the proximity to my family. This won't happen very soon, as I have made certain commitments to my job and my apartment complex, but just knowing that I have the support of my Dad in this, makes the prospect of staying for a little while longer a whole lot easier.

I also just need to say how grateful I am for worthy and wonderful Priesthood holders. It is a great feeling knowing that I have guy friends who I can turn to who will help me if I need it. It is a great feeling, and I have a deep respect for my current home teacher and his roomates who have been so amazing in recent weeks.

happy halloween

So..for the first time this week I am working..and thus unable to participate in any festivities for this holiday. Truthfully this does not bother me, as my only joy would come from seeing my beautiful nieces and nephews in their costumes, and as I am many miles away, I am not that upset. I mean, I fully expect pictures from katie, ryann, and my dear auntie. I would love to have been there to help with trick-or-treating as I have done in the past, but alas, it was not to be this year. So I hope everyone enjoyed their day/night and had lots of good, clean, safe fun. Later.

get on with it

So I have given up trying to load pictures on this thing..maybe someday. The media fast really only lasted for a week for me..I know..I could have done it, but I really got distracted at work..and then it was over. Moving on. Things are pretty much the same for me. Although, I am fairly certain that since the last time I blogged, I am no longer a trainee at the hospital..they have cut me loose on my own. My first shift on my own was pretty rough, but since then things have gone well. I still hate working nights, and I really don't think that is going to change anytime soon. However, I do get alot of reading done, and now that most of the TV shows are shown online, I don't miss anything there either, so Kate, if you REALLY want to catch up on the office, that is the way to do it. My roomates moved out, one a few weeks ago, or a month, who knows..and the other one today. I really don't think that will change anything because I have essentially been alone since I moved in. I have some good friends in the ward that allow me to crash there when I am feeling lonely, and this way no one bugs me when I am trying to sleep. I went on a date, ok, catch your breath...I went out to eat and to the play Sweeny Todd with a friend of mine. I say friend, because that is really what he is. The play was awesome though, I had no idea. It was really fun.

Working nights sometimes makes me feel really disconnected from the world. Or maybe I just feel that way because I was sick all last week, and didn't do anything but lay on the couch. I am very excited for Christmas..and now thanksgiving..turns out that I have to work the weekend after, so I can't go to colorado..so my friend is taking me to Ogden with her. Her sister lives there, and that should be really fun. But really I just want it to be after thanksgiving so I can decorate for christmas. I have to be here..all alone on christmas..and will be back in texas the night of the 26th, but I don't know that that will make it any easier. So I decided to carry on the family tradition of insane christmas decorating, and am really excited! Anyway, those are the ramblings and happenings right now. Also, I am very upset that the cougs lost to tcu..and only slightly redeemed themselves with a barely won game against unlv, I really don't like it.

quickly..as i am already behind

So just a quick note to those of you who choose to read this, first I am going on a media fast with my stake..so I will not be able to blog for two weeks..or however long I hold on. We are turning off our TVs, radios, Ipods (or various music players) and engaging in getting back to the things that matter..scripture reading, being outside, or like my bishopric liked to call it "pairing activities." So I will be unable to follow any of your wonderful lives, unless you call or text me. Just as a side note, hopefully during this time I will get the whole picture thing figured out, and post pictures when I return, so that you may see what is going on with me.

Briefly, as there are pictures that need to go with this post, I went to General Conference today in salt lake, and it was AMAZING and spiritual, and wonderful. Thanks to Pres Adair and Jason for getting me the tickets, I loved it. Love to all of you. Call me. =)

the world lost something great

Paul Newman has passed on. This is very saddening to all in the world, like me, who loved him. Besides being essentially the most beautiful man to ever be, he was a great actor..and from all accounts a good man. My heart is a little bit broken. As Jake told me, however, 83 years is a full life, so lets not get too dramatic. Anyhow..just wanted to memorialize Paul a little bit. If any of you don't know what I am speaking of, rent Cat on a Hot Tin Roof and then you will understand.

life as i know it

Things are so crazy busy right now..it seems as though I never have a moments peace. Whether it be because I rearranged things to go the gym at least 3 times a week..or being called to the Relief Society presidency..or just life in general I am not sure. I hosted dessert night at my apartment last night..and worked Tuesday night..so here is a brief rundown of my day wednesday..I got up at 12 (which is kind of early for me..as I went to bed at 7) and then had lunch with my dad..which made me so so happy. Then I went to wal-mart to get stuff to make cookies..and finish making my apartment look presentable. Then I got home and was making cookies and Keri and Johnny the stud came to keep me company, which also made me very happy. ..I then went to the gym with Annie which is going really well I think..but I was really stressed. When I got home..I still had a batch of cookies to make..had to finish cleaning..and take a shower..and only about an hour and a half before everyone was coming. Oh geeze. But I got everything done, and I think my apartment looked really cute..kind of decorated for fall..and there were about half the relief society girls that showed up. I think it went really well. My ward was having movie night outside after that..so of course I went with friends and curled up on the ground with a bunch of blankets and watched disturbia..it was a pretty crazy day..but overall I enjoyed it. But things are not going to stop being busy for a while I think..it seems as though I am either working, or having something to do for church, or going to the gym. But such is the life I suppose..I feel like my life will eventually slow down..but who knows..maybe this is the way things are going to stay. Also..exciting news..I bought my plane ticket to come home after the holidays (well after christmas anyway...as a first year nurse..I HAVE to work)..so I will be in Texas from Dec 26th till Jan 12th..very happy about that. Thanksgiving is still up in the air..I know I have it off..but don't know if I will have the time or money to go anywhere..we shall see. Have to get back to it.

ready..set..go

Ok..so I did not enter a race or anything..just really couldn't think of anything else that conveyed the excitiment..and trepidation I feel about the new journey I have embarked on. I joined a gym. Take a minute..catch your breath. I know..it is not necessarily the first time this has occured..just the first time I have this kind of resolve. There is a force driving me that I have never had before. Not to say that I don't still feel like there is a chance I will fail. But now I have a secret weapon..her name is Annie..I cannot express how grateful I am that at this time in my life I am here..so she can be by my side. See, for those of you who do not know..Annie is not only a great friend..she is a trained personal trainer. And she is helping me. She swears I am doing her a favor by allowing her to use her talents/training/education..but really and truly..she is helping me make a change in my life that I never had the courage for before (substitute courage for any number of words..motivation, determination, willpower..any of these also work). I have now gone to the gym for two consecutive days..and while getting up and going to work was slightly more difficult than it was before..I feel better mentally about myself. I have way more realistic goals than I have ever had previously, and I know that even though Annie will not be with me everytime I go to the gym (just for two wonderful weeks..the most important two weeks..in my opinion)..I have her to support me. I also have the encouragement from all my family, my mom, my beloved aunt..my sisters, my dad. This is such a big step for me..so if you see me in the near future..give me a little push in that direction..because there is still a part of me that is scared that it isn't going to happen, that I am going to give up for some, as of yet, unseen reason.

rise and shout

..the cougars are out..on the trail to fame and glory!! That is one line from the wonderful BYU cougar fight song that I had a chance to sing a record (for me anyway) 9 times at saturday's game (8 td, one fg). But I am jumping ahead here..there was more to it than just going to the game (isn't there always with me?) So I had to work Friday night, which was fine, didn't have to do much, but I was very tired when I woke up on Saturday at 12:30..with only an hour to get ready for the game..which shouldn't have been a big deal..except...the tickets that I have I kind of purchased underhandedly..(i know..shocking)..I had a friend of mine who is still a student buy an all-sports pass (really i bought it under her name and student ID)..and then she just emails me everything she gets from them. Also as a side-note we were told that with the student tickets this year you would have to show a student ID (which I thought was highly unlikely as there are thousands of people going to the games..and this would take and inordinate amount of time)..so I had a different friend who is graduated loan me her ID (we look nothing alike) because I could not find my old one. Anyhow..back to Saturday..I open the email the tickets are supposed to be in and it says that they were to come as and attachment..and there is no attachment..call the girl who emailed me..tell her they are not there..could she check to make sure she doesn't have another email with an attachment..no such luck. There were almost tears. And to top it off..even if I could get the email with attachment..the printer I recently purchased is not installed..and it is already 1pm. So I call the ticket office to find out which email address they are sending the tickets too..and call the girl back and we locate the tickets. Meanwhile I am stupidly trying to get my printer installed in a hurry so I can print them off..because in my mind I think that if I have to go to the office to do it..it will take forever (and this installation is not taking anytime at all?!!!) So it is now 1:30..kickoff. I am at home..email in hand (so to speak) making my way to the office to get it printed out. I live close enough to the stadium that I can hear the goings on. Without me. I finally get the ticket printed and begin the 10-15 min walk it is going to take to get to the stadium. I get there..finally..I have missed the first touchdown..and have to sit by myself..I don't mind..and by the way..they did not check the ID at the gate. As I look out on the field with the giant Y in the center..my breath catches..I am so excited to be back here. So excited. It was a little warm out..and because of the sun I got sunburned on half my face and one of my arms..but it was all worth it to see the cougs rout the bruins of ucla 59-0. Wonderful. Stayed for every second. Glorious day.

have to post this

This is my family. Not ALL of them..but all that were at the family reunion previously mentioned. It was cold and rainy..but here we are!!

..we are family..

Labor day weekend brought about the 3rd annual Willden family reunion (2nd for me, but that is not the point). We congregated at the Flaming Gorge KOA campsite in Manila, UT. I was very excited to be there, and was even more excited that it only took me 3 1/2 hours to get there..and would have possibly taken less time if I had not had to make 2 unexpected stops at the wal-mart for shoes of all things. I was able to see my parents, brother/sister-in law, sister/brother-in-law, and their beautiful children, grandparents, and various aunts, uncles, and cousins. It was so good to see everyone, it revived my spirits a great deal. Most of it was just hanging out by the campfire, eating, and just talking about things, but that was almost my favorite part. Just to reconnect with family members who I haven't seen in anywhere from 2-8 years was fantastic. My real favorites though were the family kickball game, where I was on the winning team and did in fact contribute to the win by catching a ball my brother kicked (it is quite an accomplishment, as I don't think I have ever bested him in anything). Then the campsite was having karaoke, which you are all aware that I already love..and I convinced my sister and cousin to sing with me, we did a spectacular rendition of Carly Simon's 'You're so vain.' It was pretty awesome! The women in the family then sang 'love shack' during which my mother did some wonderful dance moves and goosed everyone one of us!! It was so much fun, just to be able to make a fool of ourselves and not be ashamed about it. It rained that night, which caused problems for those sleeping in tents (not me) but we made it through. Saying goodbye was not the easiest thing ever, but with promises from everyone to stay in touch and see one another the next year made it slightly easier. People and circumstances of our lives change, but it doesn't change the fact that we are family and are bonded by love.

fun times..fun friends

Just wanted to add this picture to my blog..this is me with some of my friends! Cassie and Annie were roomates on my floor freshman year, and we had some great times together! Cassie and I are wearing a boa we found in Annie's desk (this is Annie's office), which Annie says is from her birthday..there is speculation about that!! j/k. Anyway, just wanted to add a fun pic!! Love you girls!!!

i'm not sure about this

I don't like working nights. Now I know what you are going to say, that who does..but in all honesty..there are people who prefer it, for whatever reason. I am not one of those people. I dread it. Once I am there, things go ok, but by the end of the night, in the early hours of the morning, I am fighting fatigue so much that I wonder how sharp my skills are. I get things done, mind you, and my patients aren't in danger, but I am so tired. All the time. I am tired even as I write this. My eating schedule is so out of whack, it is kind of distressing. And lets not even think about the fact that I basically don't have a social life anymore! Good thing I am going to get a break and go to my family reunion on Friday...and that's another thing..I have to say the day fo the week, because I can't ever rememer what day it actually is. I mean, I go to work and it is tuesday..and when I come home..wednesday..this shouldn't be confusing, right?!..well it just boggles my mind that when I go to bed and wake up some 7 or 8 hours later..it is still the same day it was when I went to sleep. Also I may be getting new roomate (s)..not sure if there will be one of more...only time will tell. To all of you whom I will see in a few days..I am sure happy about that!! Take care all.

...it's just like riding a bicycle

..while that may be true, what happens when you seem to have forgotten how to ride a bicycle?? Now I don't mean to say that I have lost the ability to pedal the bike into motion, I simply mean that I have forgotten how to make it not seem like torture. I rode my bike to work last night. Wow. Really not so fun. It was hot outside, and I am terribly out of shape, and I am not sure that my tires were aired up to proper functioning capacity, but still. It was just about the most miserable exercising experience I have had in a while. That was until I got back on my bike this morning after a very long 12 hour shift, and proceeded to attempt to pedal my way the mile and a half or so home. What setting is better? A higher gear that is harder to pedal, or a lower one where you have to pedal many more times a minute? These are the questions that plague me even still. I have to be honest that this morning I gave up slightly..and walked my bike the last bit. I shan't give up completely, I am just not sure that going to and from work is the proper avenue for my tour de france training. For now, I have to say that at one point I wanted to abandon the bike along the river trail I was riding, but did not. I have slightly more perserverance than that. Slightly more. We shall see. On another note, I am getting very excited for next weekend. Very excited.

gravity..is working against me

I started my new job, sorry if you didn't get the update, last night..and I have to be really honest, it was not that fun. It wasn't terrible, but I really don't like working nights, and my body doesn't either. I have so much to do, and couldn't stay awake this morning to get anything done, so I just ended up sleeping all day (aside from someone who lovingly called me at 11:15..what did I say by the way, anything coherent? I doubt it.). I have to go back tonight, and I am ready to go, ready to see if it gets easier. My manager told me that I would only have to work nights until like October or so, and that makes me happy..that there is an end to the insanity in sight. I seriously do not know how people do it.
On another note, I got to see my very good friend Cassie this week, and finally got meet her husband Craig. It was so much fun to see her and hang out with her. So much has changed in the four years since we have seen each other, but for me it seems as though time just melted away. It makes me happy. I also saw Annie too, not to be overshadowed by Cassie's arrival in the state of Utah. Anyhow, I am kind of losing contact with some of you, whether because of my schedule or yours, and it is making me very upset. I can't seem to get someone, the same someone who woke me up earlier today, on the phone. And so I pose this question: How in the world do you expect me to make it through this journey without you? ;) Love to all.

back to the basics

Sometimes I feel as though I get way too caught up in the goings on around me, and forget to pay attention, and keep up with the people that I love and care about. So for anyone whom I have ignored in the last little while, I apologize. There are things that we see that make us take notice of our lives, and make us realize that we need to get back to the basics. Family is the most important thing, and sometimes I can't quite believe that I moved away from my beloved family. I feel it is a test for me, and one that I don't always pass. I have to hear from my mom that my little brother has a new job, that my brother is buying a car, and other seemingly minor things, but thing I would have known firsthand had I still been living in the vicinity. I feel as though, my life would be a whole lot different if I would just stick to the basics and take care of myself, and stop focusing on trying to be everyone's friend (and maybe more than friends). I love you all. Take care of you and yours.

there was more

I had a very buys weekend..and in fact it ended up taking alot out of me..and left me with the feeling today as if I was spread too thin and didn't have energy anymore. So Friday night there was a party I attended as a farewell to the guys (the very same guys I defeated at dessert night)..they are starting on new adventures very shortly and are leaving the provo area. So..in tribute to them (and at their particular request) I did what is referred to as the "utah poof" on my hair. It was frightening, but rather a hit at the party. The party was very fun..but I went after to IHOP for breakfast and didn't get home till like 2. Then saturday we had a ward service project in the morning and then I helped the guys pack all day and then went to see Prince Caspian in the dollar theater with 3 of the guys. It was fun..but I maybe overextended myself (ok..not maybe..I did). Sunday was a long long day and I felt not well all day..tried to take some naps..but didn't get enough rest to stave off the migraine that hit at 4 am this morning. I feel better now..but not without learning to take better care of myself and to keep my priorities straight. That's all for now.

not to be trifled with

So..the much anticipated blog about the infamous dessert night showdown. After much careful preparation on both the freakishly awesome poem and beautiful trifle, I set out to the showdown. I have to pause here, just to catch anyone up who doesn't really know the stakes here. This competition has been going on for 6 weeks, with a different person/apartment preparing and presenting their dessert each week. The two with the highest scores are in the final. I am one of those two, the other group was a much beloved guys apartment in my ward, who during their first performance, dressed and danced the hula. So already, even before going, I am intimidated. They do not know this, and we have been smack talking back and forth for about a week. So, I am praying that all my efforts will live up to the hype. I get upstairs, and naturally the guys are not there, late as always. So with the help of a friend I start dishing up the first batch, and I leave the prettier batch for presentation. It is now 10:15 (event supposed to have begun at 10)..and in walks a painted guy. I cringe inside..they have dressed and painted themselves as oompa loompas, green hair included. They did not hold back, they prepared a pretty good dessert, white chocolate macadamia nut sheet cookie with ice cream on top. I feel I am beat before either one has presented. I start to freak out. Literally. A voice of reason basically conveyed that I needed to 'cowboy up'..and that my poem was awesome. So the guys arrange themselves as oompa loompas would (on their knees)..and begin the song "oompa loompa doopatey dee...." it is quite clever and funny. So..I get up there..all eyes on me..and with my best texas-accent and attitude..I recite my poem. There are cheers and laughter..particularly during the stanza about the boys themselves..and when I say "that's what she said"..there is actually applause. I feel quite pleased with the presentation..but at this point it could go either way. I begin serving my dessert..and in fact making sure everyone knows that it is mine..and that they should not forget to vote. So..we wait and wait. People have come in rather late..and are kind of more interested in socializing than voting. Finally the waiting is over..not before the oompa loompas attacked..and my face is now half orange. They gather us..and announce that the person who won gets a kung fu trophy because 'their dessert kicked butt'..and yeah that's right..I WON. I was pretty excited..and the guys were gracious losers..although the next day one commented that 'we were all winners.' Well, they have to tell themselves something.

plays and dancing

So..Thursday was pioneer day here in the beehive state..and to be completely honest I didn't celebrate it really. What I did, however, was a complete blast. It all started with us deciding that we wanted to go sing karaoke, now I know that sounds crazy but hey..that's me. So, the girls I am going with find a place in Salt Lake..and it is set..problem is they want to leave at like 9:30 at night..and I have to be up at 5 the next morning. I debate about this issue, but I really want to go, and with some encouragement from those around me, I decide to go despite the fact that I will basically be foregoing sleep. So I get ready, lookin smokin hot by the way, and meet at my guy friends apartment for the trek up there. We get there, and there is no karaoke really, just a bar. Great, in my mind I have a flashback to a terrible trip we took to SLC my freshman year, where we were going to go dancing, and ended up at the worst dive ever. I just couldn't go through that again. Not to fear, after a quick stop at the Mickey D's (the guys were hungry)..we went to a LDS run dance club, where we were able to get our groove on, AND sing karaoke. Also, one of the guys I was with tried to teach me some Latin dancing, and further reinforced in my mind that I want to take dance lessons. Just so we're clear, I did in fact sing karaoke, not solo by any means, but we all took turns, and there was no shame in it!! It was so much fun, and I greatly enjoyed myself. What I did not enjoy was getting up the next morning at 5:30 (yeah, I slept in) after getting home at 2:15. But it was well worth it, blistered feet, extreme fatigue and all. There may be more I want to say, but not in this particular venue, so I will have to leave it at that!!
Tonight, after work, I went to a collection of short plays that one of the guys in my ward was directing, some were alright, but there were some really good ones. Then the group I was with (not a big group, just 3 of us) went and got shakes. I then went to my guy friend's apartment, where I was introduced to The Flight of the Concords, and I must say that was an interesting experience. I am not sure this is quite the explanation/description any of y'all were lookin for, but I just have to say that it was fun, and I am not sure what else you want from me? =)

success??

So I had a very intense day today, and am thinking it was successful. I invited some friends who are going to be leaving for new adventures soon over for dinner, and maybe bit off more than I could chew on this one. I at first thought of making just some really good grilled chicken and then Melissa's vegetables, as we like to call them. Then after looking at some marinating recipes online and with the thoughtful input from dear Ry, I decided to instead make chicken/pineapple kabobs (which would be good without the pineapple, for those who are disgusted by the thought of them, as the recipe originally calls for red bell peppers instead). This is where the trouble started. Not to mention that my apartment was not really fit for people to see, which is my fault entirely, but still. So by the time I got back from the store (by the way I didn't get up at a reasonable hour, also my own fault) it was 3:30 and dinner was scheduled for 7:45. I TRIED to be organized and use this 15 min thing someone was telling me about, but I really was way too scatterbrained, and thought I had everything under control. By 5:30 my apartment was clean, minus the horrendous mess I was creating in the kitchen, and the chicken kabobs (not on the skewer) were marinating in the fridge. I thought I was on top of things. So I begin peeling and cutting vegetables, then I look up and it is 6:45 and the vegetables are not ready to go in the oven, and I haven't put the kabobs on the skewer, am not dressed, have not unloaded the dishwasher, the last batch of cookies is not out of the oven...PANIC. I call Ry to see if I can get it all done (and what would she have done if I couldn't..whatever..sometimes you need a voice of reason). She gives me a detailed list of instructions to carry out, and I start to do so. Put vegetables in the oven, but kabobs on skewers, clean out dishwasher, oh but don't forget to check on the veggies periodically and put the squash in close to the end to prevent a mushy mess. It is now 7:30..15 min to go..vegetables have been in for close to 40 min..and guess what..yeah that's right..potatoes and carrots are not even CLOSE to being cooked. You thought I panicked before..this is nothing..I am still not dressed..and the kabobs..while assembled are not going to get cooked..because the vegetables are still in the oven. I quickly load the dishwasher and clean off the counter, get dressed and check on the vegetables again (yeah they magically cooked in the last 10 min..NOT). So I call Ry in a near frenzy (thanks for the help and sanity by the way) and she tells me I will have to put them in the skillet I convieniently purchased today. I do so. I also put a pan of skewers in to broil, and begin grilling the rest as they won't all fit on my rather small cookie sheet. The time has come..it is 7:45..but not to fear..everyone was late. And by everyone I mean the 4 guys that showed up to eat this rather delicious meal I prepared. The first two showed up just as the first two kabobs were finished on the grill. They also got to sample cookies while we waited..and waited..the other two showed up..still waiting..and waiting..finally after depression and the resolve to never again cook potatoes set in..I pulled the vegetables out of the skillet and served them. Everything tasted really good, the guys said it was great...and a fun time was had by all. However..after the marathon cooking..it was like a sauna in my apartment..and kind of uncomfortable to be in. Oh well. Also..another girl did eventually show up..but not till after we ate..and me and 4 guys..not akward at all..thank goodness I can handle that kind of pressure.

you just don't understand

I saw Dark Knight last night..well really early this morning, but still. I have to say that it was wonderful, disturbing, amazing, and thoroughly creepy. I know that doesn't make sense, but you will just have to trust me on this one. Heath Ledger, may he rest in peace, made me want to cry but love him at the same time. And I can't even tell you how great Christian Bale is. That is all. You won't understand until you see it for yourself. That is really all I have for now. No news with work, so I decided to finish the residency and see what pans out. I am trying to be mature about this.

RN

So..I passed my test!! The relief and happiness..and feeling of being so incredibly blessed has not passed yet, and hope it won't. I cannot express how elated (that's right) I feel right now. I am DONE!! This journey is over, and I can start a new and exciting one. Skate, I will try my best to get a job, meet people, and maybe, just maybe go on a date (no offers, don't get excited). I feel like crying (oh geeze) but out of complete and utter joy. In the back of my mind, there was that small (very small) part of me that thought this day would never come. I am so thankful to the Lord for standing by me and guiding my path (also thankful to my family and friends who helped along this incredibly long road). I love this feeling.

its over

First I would just like to thank everyone who wished me luck, encouraged me, prayed for me, or just loved me through this whole ordeal. I finished my test in about an hour this morning (all that worry over an hour, right?!) and took 75 questions, which is supposed to be a good sign. I didn't feel like I knew the answers, but I felt (and still feel) calm. So whatever the outcome, I feel like it is the Lord's will. My home teacher brought me over some ice cream, my bishop's wife sent me some candy, and everyone generally buoyed up my spirits over the last couple of days. It was a draining day, but a good day. I am really happy to have that behind me. I have to work nights in the ER for the next week..not every night, but almost, and am slightly apprehensive, but after tonight I think I will be ok. Also, I went to IKEA for the first time EVER today..and I loved it. Didn't spend too much money, though. Anyway, I have to go to work, so I will cut the blog short, and just to clarify, I won't know how I did for a couple of days yet. Also, no word on any jobs. Till next time. Thanks again.

i did what?

I have had a pretty busy and might I add random weekend. First on thursday night, my complex put on Independence Day out in the grassy area on a huge projector..I don't even really like that movie..but what else was I going to do. So I had to tell you that to tell you this, I ran into some guys from my ward who invited me to go float the river the next day, and in my memory that was tons of fun so I readily accepted. So the 4th comes around, and I go to wal-mart to buy an inner tube (as all the tire stores where one would buy a proper tube, are closed it being a holiday and all)..so I buy a tube that seems to be sufficient (and was)..and get ready to have a rockin time. I also bought various items that might be present at a bbq, as it was mentioned previously that we might have one after floating. So on my way to the guys apartment, I meet up with some friends that are not doing anything, so I invite them along, they said they would come but didn't have any kind of floatation device. We decide that they can use the rafts that you lay out on in pools (just as a side note, the last time I floated the river was 4 years ago, and the river has changed alot). We begin to float down, the water is frigid, and shortly after we start there is a bridge that for some reason unbeknownest to us is rather treacherous. It throws both the girls on the rafts (yeah brillant idea, right??) off and one of them is stuck under the current in some kind of whirlpool or something and is not coming up, I try to help, but the current is too strong and continues to propel me down the river, so I start yelling at the guys (who were behind us for this very reason). The girl thankfully surfaced shortly thereafter, just as the boys reached the bridge, and also got pummeled a bit. So moving down the river the two girls who got thrown get out as they are quite shaken, and understandably so. At this point there are two people in front of my and four behind me, yet as the near frozen river continues to swiftly move, I lose sight of everyone in either direction. I want to cry ( again with the threatened tears, I know), and want to get out so badly, but what can you do, its a freaking river, you just have to ride it. So as I now am traversing the river all alone, I meet these random group of people who catch up with me, and I get them to promise that they will help me when it is time to get off. I make it to the end after a few more trials, and more near panic attacks, and no one I know is there. So I wait, for what seems like for-ev-er (really 20 min) and finally everyone (minus the 2 girls who abandoned the journey) get out, and we all meet up and compare stories, and bond over the fact that our feet were so cold that when getting out and being then dependent on walking, it didn't quite work out, and crawling for a bit seemed much easier. We made it back to Provo a short time later, and find a hot tub to invade as we are all frozen to the core, then have a fun bbq, and walk up to the stadium to see the fireworks (where we HEAR miley cyrus performing, exciting huh??)..much to my delight the fireworks were AWESOME, as we were so close they seemed to be falling on us, and though it was exceptionally loud, it was so fun. To round off the weekend, in short, I had another bbq, played sand volleyball for 3 hours, watched emperor's new groove with lots of people from my ward (only in provo), and presented myself and boys that I floated the river with in front of the ward in song form (to the tune of part of your world), went to a crepe party and played scene it with people (and was one of few that knew the answers as most of the movies asked about were rated the bad letter). Busy weekend. Fun though. Now I can look forward to a week of studying, and then working nights in the ER. Keep me in your thoughts (and possibly prayers).

this week in review

Now, I have to tell you to start with that there is really not going to be much to update, but here goes. First to my sister skate: there really is nothing to tell you, but I will call you at some point, this is not the forum for that kind of talk. Second, I went to the pool the other day, to wait while my laundry was washing/drying, and ended getting burnt, not fun, but at least I am not pasty white anymore! So, today I finished my rotation in the cardiac ICU, and have to say that I loved it, and felt like I actually can function as a nurse on my own, and have the knowledge and ability to be successful. I had a job interview yesterday (!!) with a group of managers that may offer me a position with the ICU (not cardiac but just regular run of the mill really sick people), and some other areas. They term it the Critical Care Cluster, but I know for a fact that other people in my program interviewed for the exact same position, so I have to first hope that my bright and sparkling personality will win me the job, and that the ER really doesn't want me. So, we will see on that one. I have more than a few days off, but before anyone gets excited, I have state boards next Friday, therefore I will most likely spend the majority of the time studying (blah). And now, just to vent some frustration at being relatively young and having GREY hairs, I really don't appreciate it, and now, instead of 2, I have at least 3 or 4 that I can find. It is quite distressing, so I may be finding someone to do my hair this weekend, because I am kind of freaking out about it. Also, just a side note, I signed a year contract with my apartment complex (after deciding that I really could afford it) and made them give me a full bed (as I was promised) and LOVE IT! I found some really pretty sheets (300 ct) and am so excited about it! FINALLY..not a twin bed!! I also need to mention..that even though the olympics have not started yet, the trials have, and I am slightly obsessed (especially with Michael Phelps). Enough rambling for now, hope this satisified whatever urge anyone had to get inside my head.

ebony and ivory

I went out on a limb tonight and prepared a dessert for our ward Dessert Night. I looked all over the grocery store looking for a great idea..and finally decided to make oreo pudding pie (oreo crust, oreo pudding and cool whip)..and was now going to have to find a very creative name for it and to top it off..have to present it to my entire ward. By myself. So...I called in reinforcements, after encouragement from Katie..Ryann (I thought jokingly) told me to call it Ebony and Ivory and sing the song by Michael Jackson and Paul McCartney. I didn't even know that was a song..and I thought I knew a thing or two about MJ. Well..after talking with auntie and consulting the internet..heard the song (which is by Paul and Stevie Wonder..by the way). Well..at this point in time..I am pretty set on calling it Ebony and Ivory..and now about this song that I have just heard. It is pretty corny to be honest..but kinda funny. It is like 8:30 and dessert night is at 10. There is no way on this earth that I will be able to learn this song..much less learn it..but to sing it by myself in front of the ward. Not a chance. So..auntie informed me that there is a video on youtube. I consulted with a friend..and she said she would learn it and sing it with me..but she was busy till like 9:30. So I go up to the apartment where this glorious event is going to take place about 15 min before 10 and we look up the song on the internet..it won't play..but the video (which is totally 80s magic..in case you want to check it out) will..so I decide to scratch the singing and just give a little intro and play the video. Which is what I do. Everyone laughed..and said the dessert was really good. And..I met some really cool people who are in my ward..and we had a lot of fun. So it was a pretty great evening after all the build up and stress about the presentation. As a side note..I love the songs that are now on my blog..hope you enjoy.

do you know a good mechanic?

I had plans for today..I was going to go to the temple, clean my apartment (we have cleaning checks tomorrow), go to lunch with a friend, and maybe spend a little time at the pool. Other than the cleaning..which I have yet to do..I didn't do any of these things, because when I went outside and got in my car, it wouldn't start. Great. Here I am miles away from family, and while there are mechanics on every corner..where to go? And..I don't really have any guy friends yet who could help me..so there I was stranded without anyone or anywhere to turn to. So..I call up a friend that is from the area thinking that her or her father perhaps would know where to go..and sure enough she told me where to go. So instead of the day I had planned..I took my car..which finally started..to the shop and spent the 3 hours it took to get it fixed walking around the mall trying to NOT spend money. (It almost worked..I spent very little) So onward and upward..car is fixed..and I am no worse for the wear. So I now have a mechanic..although..I am most likely going to invest in AAA so I don't ever have to not know what to do again.

My Four

I was tagged..I think that means I am supposed to do one of these myself..so here goes.

Four Jobs I have had:
-Nurse
-Convenient store clerk (allsups)
-Winger's Hostess
-Target team member

Four Movies I would watch over and over:
-Roman Holiday
-Pride and Prejudice(the Keira Knightley version)
-Center Stage
-Memiors of a Geisha

Four Places I have lived:(there are more than 4..but here are four)
-Seymour, Texas
-Pinion Hills, CA
-Provo, UT
-Longmont, CO

Four TV shows I watch:
-Grey's Anatomy
-The Office
-Gilmore Girls (over and over)
-What I like About You

Four places I went yesterday:
-Work (UVRMC in Provo)
-Panda Express
-Dessert night at apt 307 (in my ward)
-To play Rock Band with boys (in my ward)

Four people who email me regularly: (I am counting Facebook and Myspace messages here)
-Joanie
-Tonya
-Krystal
-Janice

Four of my favorite foods:
-Orange chicken
-cafe rio burritos
-Chicken alfredo
-Ice Cream

Four places I would rather be right now:
-Asleep
-In Texas with my family
-At the pool (or other body of water)
-At lunch with Annie

Four things I am looking forward to this year:
-Passing state boards
-Going on a date (keep your fingers crossed on this one)
-Getting a job in a cool department in the hospital (ER..here I come)
-Going to family reunion!!

Four People I am tagging:
-Katie
-Ryann
-Joanie
-Cassie

survived

I managed to survive my first rotation in my RN residency program. It started out pretty rough, as previously mentioned, but turned out to be not that bad. Once I got the hang of the computer system for charting and giving meds, it all boiled down to basic nursing, which by the way, I do know how to do. So all in all, I had a pretty good two weeks, and met some cool people and got some really good experience to prepare me for the challenges that lay ahead: the ICU and the ER. There are days when all I want is to work in the ER and other days when the thought of it scares me to death. I think this is part of the reason I want it, to overcome that fear and apprehension and to be able to say "i CAN do that." Friends and people I know are passing their state boards right and left, and it is starting to add to the already enormous amount of pressure I have riding on me. I HAVE to pass that test. Obviously, I need to stop blogging and study more, to ensure that I have done everything in my power, but it still kinda wigs me out sometimes. I mean, what would I do if I failed? I can't even begin to think about it. On a side note, I was alone again for lunch, my lunch buddy was off today, and so..I saw a spot at a table where there was just one guy sitting, and asked if I could join him, and turns out it was his first day in the hospital as an intern in one of the departments, and just moved here (by the way..lives in my apartment complex) and didn't know anyone, and didn't know where to put his tray. I was glad that I could help someone from having to sit alone and feel dumb like I did on my first day!

love it

I have to say that today..I love the fact that I made this blog. It gives me an opportunity to let off some steam and to place my thoughts..where people who may care to read about the inner workings of my mind. My dearest mother disagrees with this particular forum, but at this point in my life, it is my decision. Life in Provo is turning out really well so far, and true..time has not been far spent thus far, but I feel positive about this whole situation. I don't mean to say..that marriage is fast approaching, it really has nothing to do with that. I feel like THAT will happen at some point in my life, and sure the prospect of a romance is enticing, but my life is becoming so interesting and full of new people and new opportunities for growth. I am hoping for new and exciting things. I also love that the LA Lakers lost the NBA finals. Makes me smile.

good day!

So..i had a pretty good day yesterday at work, and feel much better about things. And today I talked with my manager about the issues that I had on Sunday, and she told me that I wouldn't have to be with that clinical coach again, and that she appreciated me bringing my concerns to her. It feels so good to have a manager that is so approachable and easy to talk to. She just understood where I was coming from, and made me feel validated in my concerns. It is really nice to know that she is there for me. I got my schedule for next rotation, and am going to be working in the cardiac ICU next, so that should bring some new and exciting adventures for me. I am just having a really good day! It makes going to work so much easier to know that my manager is so darn cool!!

Old Friends and New Friends

I am so excited that coming here to provo has brought me back in touch with some old friends, and given me the opportunity to meet new ones. I had lunch today with Annie..and she is so awesome..I am so happy I got to see her. I also so Keriann and baby Johnny today, I love that I am here and get to see her being a mom. I also went to a movie with my roomate Rebecca, who is really cool. There is so many new adventures that are taking place and I am really looking forward to all that could occur. I am trying to be a better person all around, and to stay positive with work and with my not-so-social ward. I hope that there will be new things to learn every day, and meet new people, and become a little bit better each and every day.

I also just need to say that my nephew Isaac is so darn cute!!

growing up

I have NEVER wanted to grow up. I mean, I cried when I had to wear a bra for the first time. It meant I was not a kid anymore, and to me that was just about the worst thing that could possibly happen. I still try to hold on to the kid inside me because being an adult and having to face adult issues is SO not fun. Seeing people that I care about struggle through some of these adult things is not so great either. I feel helpless, because there really isn't anything I can do to stop the struggle, but I want to so bad. It breaks my heart, and I want to cry, but I know that realistically there is not a thing I can do, other than pray for them. And sometimes that feels like it is so not enough.

first day..and all that that implies

So I officially started my shifts at UVRMC here in Provo today, and there were so many things that I thought were going to be scary and there was a lot of apprehension going into this morning. So this post may end up being quite lengthy, but that is because there were a lot of emotions that came out of this experience.
To start off with I didn't get very much sleep, whether because of the anxiety and anticipation, or the fact that my complex was having movie night outside my apartment, or both. Regardless, I was so tired this morning. Thought I was going to have LOTS of time to get ready and everything, but I was dragging butt, and ended up almost being late. To top that off, I didn't know where to park, and forgot the breakfast and lunch I had planned to take with me. Needless to say, the day didn't start off so well. It kinda got worse before it got better. So I got there and was supposed to be working under this one clinical coach..and the charge nurse was like "oh, well he's not here today," and I wanted to say.."oh, well then should I just go home?" I felt real welcome. Anywho, they found some poor soul to take me on and show me the ropes. This nurse was having a worse day than me, because she spent all day fighting off falling asleep (she did actually sleep a few times), and being so disorganized and scatter-brained..that my anxiety level steadily increased. She did show me how to computer chart, which I was freaked out about at first, but it's all good now.
Then came lunch, the REAL low point. I went down to floor that the sign on the wall said contained the cafeteria ( I have NO idea where anything is in this place). So I get there, find something to eat, and sit at a table all by myself ( I also don't know a soul). So I am sitting there, nearing completion of my meal and I realize that I have no idea what to do with my tray once I am done. I don't see trash cans for my paper plate, and that is when I start to fall apart. I want to cry. Really. I felt so alone. I was praying that someone else would get finished so I would know what to do. So I make the mistake of calling my family, who is all together having a nice lunch together. And now I am miserable. I have to fight the tears and the "nose tingling." I finally find out how to leave the cafeteria properly and finish my shift with my sleepy but kind clinical coach.
So I don't want anyone feeling sorry for me. That was not the intent of this blog. I just wanted to share the feelings I had. I am really happy to be here in Provo, much as I miss my family. I am happy that the first day is over, and nothing too tragic happened. I can now face the next shift with more confidence in knowing that I CAN do this. It won't ever be that hard and uncomfortable again. I will never have to sit lonely in the cafeteria not knowing what's what. I am a stronger, more knowledgeable person having had the experience I did. I love being a nurse, and I love meeting new people and learning how to be the best for my patients. All in all, the experience and the lessons learned are invaluable to me. I love my life. I miss my family like crazy, but am so thankful I have the Lord to turn to when no one else is here.

More about me...

So at the request of a most beloved aunt..i am blogging for the second time today. More about my life, as a nurse I work 12 hour shifts, mostly days for now, but I have worked nights before and probably will again within the near future.

My family is one of my favorite things in life, and i have three brothers, one sister, and four siblings-in-law. I have 7 nieces and nephews..with another on the way. My parents are my heroes and I will love them forever for all the times they have been there to support me.

Something you may not know about me..I would one day love to write a novel about what I don't know..but it is in there in the back of my mind and will hopefully make an appearance at some point.

First ever blog

So i saw this website on my old roomates facebook site and decided to check it out (kudos to you sarah), and so I am going to give blogging a try. So...a little bit to catch up those of you that don't already know this about me. I graduated RN school in May and moved to Provo Utah about two weeks ago to start work at Intermountain Healthcare's UVRMC hospital in Provo. I am very excited about this new adventure..even though I once again have to go through the incredible torture of being brand new in a BYU student ward. My roomate moved in earlier this week..and she is a nurse too, so there is a great understanding between us, particularly regarding the need for sleep (she works nights). I am trying to play catch-up with some friends from "before"..meaning about 4 years ago when I lived here for two years. I am loving life right now..but missing my family in Texas quite alot!