Fresh Beginnings!

It is time for some fresh beginnings. I have just decided. I am going to clean out this room, this whole apartment, our bathroom, and make everything extra nice! Then I am committed to eat HEALTHY. I am so excited to start this new and fresh diet. I want to incorporate 3 fruits and vegetables into my diet every single day. Then I want to start drinking lots more water, and start possibly shopping little bits at the health food store! Then for treats, I want to buy these healthy short bread cookies and drink tea! I also am committed to start praying more. I want to feed my spiritual self as well! I am just writing this blog because it is time to start with some new and fresh beginnings, and this is my proof! :D

Huge, huge decisions at this age in life.

HOW do I decide who I want to marry? Please, if any of you have the answer, will you tell me? Tips, guidelines, advice, rules, etc. are all welcomed.

Slumber Party!

I just had the strongest desire to have a girl slumber party this weekend!!! I wish I had some girl- friends I could invite over maybe on Saturday night to watch movies and eat candies! And be kids again. Anyone want to come??

Tutus for SALE

Baby Pink Classic Tutu $30

Tinkerbell Green & Yellow Tutu $25

Sweet-Pea Baby Tutu (with matching for Baby Doll) $15

Snow Fairy Tutu $25

Beautiful Brown and Gold Tutu $25

Here is a self portrait of me:

At least how I view myself anyways. ;)

Childrens classes!

I just read a good friends blog and it was very thought provoking, so here I am here currently writing my own. I find myself in a similar predicament day after day- and I am sure many of you can relate. I feel like I devote my entire existence to making humanity a somewhat better place and at times these efforts seem so meaningless and small in the big picture of life and of the world. Every day I strive to do at least one thing that can spread a sort of goodness- not to mention this desire to 'change the world' consumes my being. Numerous ideas and thoughts flood my mind daily of ways I can make this life better. But as I said before these efforts at times seem so meaningless and possibly overlooked. I mean really, I am just a girl living in Utah- how am I making any sort of impact on mankind? It can be extremely discouraging, but nonetheless at the same time- I always feel that even though my pursuits to do something grander are so often brushed off- I know that God is cheering me on somewhere. That is what always keeps me moving- despite the lack of approval of others. The other thing that depresses me at times, is sometimes I feel I have so much to offer in so many different aspects and an array of potential that I begin to fear that it may go to waste and never be used for the betterment of the world. I sometimes carry a burden on my back feeling the need to do everything at the same time in fear that others wont do their part. Do you ever find yourself in feeling that?

Un-doubtebly I feel that that as complicated as the matters in the world are and how insignificant my efforts may be, there is one thing I am sure of: Love is what counts. And love doesn't have to be a massive production. Love is simple. Sharing love with others is something I know that I can do. I know that I am capable of loving someone, and letting others love me- and truthfully that is abundant in itself. And ultimately that is the the realistic first step to changing my world.

My role model for everything I do.

This is my Grandma Hails and my senior picture. Both of us 18 years old. Katherine Marie and Marie Catherine. She is also my role model. In my eyes she had it all. All my life she gives me my aim of what to shoot for. Briefly: she was intelligent, spiritual, loving to EVERYONE, classy, "ahead of the times," compassionate, feminine, open-minded, inquisitive, always striving for more, and always, always, always could bring light to any situation. Also- what I loved about her was she never used sarcasm, or negativity, or judgment on people. She wasn't sassy, or hard on people. In face the meanest thing my Mom ever rememebers her saying-was calling someone a 'bully.' ha ha she's amazing! I have long strides to go....but I love her so much. I don't know how much longer she will be with us, and soon to return to her sweet hubby. :) She is the reason I am who I am, and the reason I want to be who I want to be. I love you Grandma.

This is a video I made for her 90th birthday party. Watch it. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9D_bAEahy6k

HAPPY FALL TIME!!!

Elimination of Prejudice

Children's classes on Monday was really fun as usual. Although Chlidren's classes are really for any kid to teach about virtues and spiritual qualities, because these 9 kids have Baha'i parents they asked us to go over some of the basic principles in the Baha'i faith are. One of the principles so commonly spoken about is the "elimination of prejudice of all kinds." This means eliminating and cleansing the heart of prejudice in all forms such as: race, gender, religion, social class, and so forth. Mankind is ONE in spirit, and it's only this material form that makes us separate-hence we create prejudice. Anyway, so this is a nice story that has stuck with me that we talked about on Monday.
Abdul-Baha had many followers throughout his life. People from all backgrounds wanted to anxiously learn from him and sought after his wisdom and keen words. At one point, (I am not sure where He was or with whom) but He was walking with a few men. They were walking along the streets and came across a dead dog. The men with Abdul-Baha shuttered with disgust as they looked at the dog who was bloody, ripped up, bones sticking out, dirty, and permeated a fowl smell.
The men kept repeating, "oh that is so ugly! That is the most hideous thing I have ever seen! YUCK! How disgusting!!"......and so forth.
But Abdul-Baha after listening to these mens remarks moved closer to the dog and said, "But gentlemen, look at how beautiful his teeth are. His teeth are white, and stainless, and whole. What beautiful teeth this dog had in his life."
This story seems so simple- yet it's really not at the same time. Although most people would see a hideous dead dog on the side of the street- Abdul-Baha was able to turn something so fowl- and look at the small good it did have. His lesson was that all people, and everywhere we go- it is possible to find good in ANYTHING, or ANYONE. There is always good. And that "Even if a man has 9 bad traits and only 1 good one, focus all your energy on the 1 good one."

(My Grandma Hails LOVED and adored Abdul-Baha. And I am sure she would have loved this story because she was just like this- she was always, always able to find the good and beauty in all things....no matter what.)

Best compliment ever!

Today I think I just recieved one of the best compliments ever. This boy from my Mass Comm. class and I were talking about studying for our test tomorrow together. I told him that I had been procrastinating a lot. He said, "wow.....really? To be honest you would never strike me as the type that procrastinates." lol!! That is seriously one of the best things anyone has ever told me. Even my roommates at SUU would always ask me if I had done homework once in my life. lol. In my past- procrastination and not getting things done was my middle name. But I have worked on it hard on being on top of things- and someone recognized! hahah- this will go down in history as the very best thing someone has said to me. lol.

Happy Halloween!

Here is my final Halloween costume- a Snow fairy. And this is my good friend Staci, a Witch. :)

Best Friends

Yesterday morning, Zach left Green Acre to move back home after almost 3 and a 1/2 years! Oh my goodness! He did service at Green Acre Baha'i School for over 3 years and yesterday was the time for it to come to a close. He's on his way home, to Savannah Georgia. (which he is telling me is one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the country.) I am so proud of him! I met him when I served there last summer- and he has truly become and stayed one of my closest friends. (even though we have absolutely driven each other nuts at times!! ha ha) We had some great/magical/extraordinary adventures out in beautiful Maine together, and I am really sad thinking he is not there anymore! This is a picture of us in front of one of my favorite places in October 2008. It is the Coffee shop in downtown Pourtsmouth New Hampshire. We hung out there quite a bit when I served there in summer, visited in fall, and served again last winter 2008. I can't even begin to explain the magic that Pourtsmouth New Hamshire has....it is nothing like Utah. I am in love with it- and truly hope to go back there someday.

This picture was taken during Summer 2008 when all the volunteers went out to play pool in Pourtsmouth....He impressed me big time with how excellent he was with pool!

This was New Years 2008- again in Pourtsmouth New Hampshire....It was purely magical!! The historical feel of Pourtsmouth is so enchanting and mystical. I love it.

Update on Children's Classes

Last night was our 3rd of 15 children's classes. It was so fun! There are 9 kids and the two Mom's, and the other teacher Scott come to my house once a week, it is really fun. The kids seem to really be loving it, they said they look forward to it all week and count down the hours till 7pm on Monday night! :) I made them Apple-juice and Apple-bread last night and the lesson was great. It was a long lesson and the kids were getting ancy, but it was really fun and productive. We have been doing opening prayers, songs, memorizing quotes, then a lesson, then coloring, then our Army of Light dance I taught them. They ask to do the dance each week! :) I feel like it's really going well- and overall, I truly hope they will take these good lessons with them throughout their lives and it impacts their hearts forever. :) This pic is from the first week- I am going to take some more maybe next time.

GRATITUDE

Remember to be in full gratitude for everything we DO have....there is soooo much to be grateful for....and when you fill your heart with graitude, more good will flow to you. It's just the way the universe works.

Halloween Dance-extravanganza!

I went to another halloween dance at BYU tonight. Here's some pics. It was way fun! (I actually went to a dance on the BYU campus- the illegid, famous B.Y.U that I have heard SO much about my whole life....- ha ha)

Publish Post

BYU campus? MOI?

Okay, calm down!!!!! I am not going to BYU. haha! No, I went to a dance/Halloween party up at BYU tonight. I have to say, BYU is such a gorgeous campus and school!!! Who knew? haha, I really had so many good feelings being there tonight.....bravo BYU!! My friends and I had fun and we I think I met more people tonight than I have all semester!!

Homework & Communication Theories

Last night I was fighting HARD with homework. I mean, I was about to get some boxing gloves and seriously beat it up. Ew!!! Why does homework have to get so up in my grill all in the same moment? ha ha- Im just kidding. I am just so grateful today is OVER!! My midterms are over after today. :) I had 3 big things due today....2 big papers and a presentation. And well, I didn't begin any of them until 11 pm last night. I worked 11 pm-1am. Slept until 4 am...woke up at 4 until 6 am writing a paper....slept till 8am....worked on papers till 1030 am.....then ran to school frantically to get some last minute assistance!!

Anyway this blog is getting boring so lets spice it up. :) I really, truly love my classes. I mean, really- communication is something I love!! I love my communication classes- and mostly my communication theory and practice class. I truly thought that it was going to be super boring at the beginning, and although it is one of my most challenging, I have learned the most in it. I love discussing the philosophy and theories of communication. I mean philosopy AND communication in ONE class? That is like screaming my name.

The theory we have spent discussing the last 3 weeks is called phenomenology...we also have delved into semiotics....but I am more fond of the phenomenology theory. (I just wrote a 6 page paper on it. :) ) Phenomenology is a theory of communication that is basically the merging of consciouesness between two individuals. Phenomenology and dialogue is that moment that most people are waiting for on one level or another. It is the moment that I am always thinking of and trying to explain and articulate- and now I finally have a name for it....its called phenomenology. So often in our American culture it can become habitual to pass others as mere objects expecting each other to somehow give us something for the betterment of our own selves. Phenomenology is the communication theory that goes beyond the physical and into a deeper level of connection with others.....it can occur when two strangers simply make eye contact with one another and mutually give and take the understanding that each other is a being with a consciousness like themselves. It is that spark of connection, that glimpse of eternity, that moment connection occurs, it is 100% authentic connection between two people. The beauty of this theory is that each individual remains a unique person, it is not meshing personalities into one. It is taking two seperate people with traits and charactersistics and merging them on a deeper level beyond just verbal communication- its almost like soul communication. No words need to spoken, but each party reciprocates and recieves an understanding from one another. I can't go on anymore- or I will be talking for 3 more hours, but this theory is fascinating!!

I love this class because we are talking about and giving names to ideas that I have truly always thought about but never knew that famous philosophers and theorists have articulated and written books on. I love it!

Kimmies bday!

2 nights ago was my roommate Kimmies bday- so I made her a heart cake and just the two of us had a little 'fairy' party- dressing up in our fairy outfits. Ha ha! It was fun. Also this is only a pre-view to my halloween costume which is going to la extrodinaire!

Hair-clips and Tutu business!!

My friend Suelyn and I have combined businesses, Hair Clips and Tutus for little girls. Please come to mylittlehairflowers.blogspot.com to make an order!!! The first purchases on any Tutu will recieve a 10% discount!

It goes: Move, Step, Left, Right, Army of Light-don't ever lose sight!

Tonight was our first of 15 classes we are going to do with these kids. I had such a great time tonight! I made them halloween cupcakes, applejuice, and the lesson was on Unity. We sang a song, memorized a quote, read some stories, they colored a picture, and then I taught them a dance! Oh man they loved it all- but mostly the dance part. Even the two moms danced with us. ha ha. Good times! Then they devoured every single last cupcake. Ha ha! Man it was fun. They were the most easy going and enthusiastic kids. :)

A nice story about Abdul-Baha

Preface: In the Baha'i Faith, Abdul-Baha was a successor of Baha'u'llah, and was actually his son. Abdul-Baha wasn't at the level of Baha'u'llah, but He was very divinely inspired. After Baha'u'llahs ascension, Abdul-Baha spent most of his life travelling the world teaching the cause of the Baha'i Faith. He even came to America in 1912 ( was supposed to be on the Titanic, but gave his tickets up and made the next boat over...) everywhere He went world-wide he was treated like royalty. He was highly respected and admired by Doctors, Philosophers, engineers, and Government rulers world-wide. For instance, when He came to America in 1912, He spoke at Stanford University and other ivy league schools and had thousands of guests from around the nation come to listen to him. Its really interesting actually. Anyway here is the story I wanted to tell about him.

Throughout all his travels around the world, and all the people he met and taught, and served, there was one encounter he had with a Muslim man. He and this man got talking and talking. Then they got on the subject of religion. The man started quoting things from the Qu'ran as Abdul-Baha shared with him new ideas of spirituality. Abdul-Baha then quoted something from the Qu'ran.

The man said, "Oh no! That is not correct! It actually says THIS...."Abdul-Baha quoted some more things from the Qu'ran in their discussion. The man started to get very angry and mad at Abdul-Baha stating he was very wrong and so forth. The man got very heated and upset with Abdul-Baha.Then, Abdul-Baha simply looked at him in the eye and said, "Have a great day sir," and simply walked away.

That night the Muslim man went home and searched in his Qu'ran for the quote they had been discussing. Abdul-Baha was actually right- word for word on each scripture He quoted. The man was stunned.

So the next day, the man went back to Abdul-Baha and said, " Abdul-Baha!, you were exactly right about the quote in the Qu'ran and I was in fact wrong! But WHY didn't you fight back with me and tell me you were right?! I don't understand!"

Abdul-Baha looked him in the eye, and in the most loving way said, "Because, I would have won the argument, but I would have lost your heart."

Have you ever felt like you were destined for something so magnificent?

I was just hit so hard by a ton of bricks as I just layed down in bed. Right now at this very moment I am living in the peak of life. Have you ever felt you were destined for something so magnificent? Meant to do something so great that will leave the world a better place? Well I have. I feel I have so much talent, so much intellect, so many gifts, strengths, wisdom, people skills and beauty to offer the world- but all of thes gifts remain useless unless shared for the betterment of the world. I feel like right now I could literally be anyone I wanted to be and do anything I wanted to do. Right now is the time. There is no time but now. I just burst out of bed anxious with what I am going to do next. What and how will I do next to lead me on the successful path to magnificence? I don't want mediocrity, I want magnificence. I always ee myself travelling the world, or doing something in front of people. Such as motivational speaking, self improvement trainings, or seminars. I feel like I need to share my voice with the world- my ideas need to be heard by the masses. Perhaps I should pursue journalism, or broadcasting as some of my Professors at SUU told me... maybe I can write a book... or perhaps pick up another service trip next summer. What is next? If you have ever read the Peaceful Warrior- I feel like Dan Millman right now. I only wish a socrates would come into my life. A thought provoked, wise mentor would serve me well right now. Well, goodnight world. I will finish these thoughts tomorrow.

Dreamin away...

So we all know how passionate I am about photography and taking pictures. I mean, I am crazy and madly in love with it. If I could, I would just travel the world and capture some amazing shots. That would be a dream. So I'd like to upgrade from a digital camera. Does anyone know about cameras? I don' t know where to begin or what to even look for...(even though I took a photography class and we learned all the details and history of cameras, Ijust don't remember at all....) But I want one that can change settings, and focus really well, and do all kinds of magical things. Also, I would love to get some photoshop software. If I could have these two things throughout the rest of the course of my college days, it would be so dreamy. Suggestions?? Here are some pics I have taken just with my digital camera.

Wishing I was in Africa.

I have been listening to this African-pop song on repeat tonight and it is making me wish I was in Africa and could see the culture. In the last year or so, I have had some friends who have spent signifcant times in Africa, and hearing their stories and seeing their pictures is awesome. As I listen to this song, the African culture seems so rich, so exotic, so.... vastly different from ours! I have had these goals posted on my

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVLpmwlVn1w

Flyin' on a cloud.

Lately, I have been so happy I have been waking up on a cloud- and floating on a cloud through the day- and drifting into sleep on a cloud.

My thoughts for the day. :)

The world has enough people who are tough, we need more people who are gentle. The world has enough people who are cool, we need more who are sincere. The world has enough people who are popular, fashionable, famous, we need more people who stick to their morals. The world has enough people following the crowd, we need more people who want to make a difference and stand out. There are enough people who swear and are sarcastic, we need more people who choose a refined language to uplift others. The world has enough people wrapped in the media, in music, in the current styles, we need more people invested in a higher cause- like service. In the end, we need more people willing to shine their light, like a diamond, polished and refined, because in the final analysis this is what will truly wins the hearts of many.

The soul is a heavenly gem.

"Know, verily, that the soul is a sign of God, a heavenly gem whose reality the most learned of men hath failed to grasp, and whose mystery no mind, however acute, can ever hope to unravel. It is the first among all created things to declare the excellence of its Creator, the first to recognize His glory, to cleave unto His truth, and to bow down in adoration before Him. If it be faithful to God, it will reflect His light, and will, eventually, return unto Him."

-Baha'u'llah

The most beautiful October 1st, 2009 to ever exist. :)

A video of 'my fun life!'

I wanted something creative to do tonight, (I was bored) so I made this fun little video of life and the amazing people I have met with my favorite song. Just a fun little movie you can watch....(oh and at the beginning, I am not really "all alone, crying silent tears full of pride, made of steel and stone..." hah- I just had to add it for the videos sake. :)

Dates?

I have to admit something. Since I moved down here I have been asked on a few dates but haven't gone. Why? Well- the reason is dumb. But I have been getting straight down to business with this whole dating scene. If I don't see any potential, I am stopping it right there. lol. BUT I have changed my mind today. I am going to go on as many dates as I possibly can. Why not? I have nothing to lose at this point. So, I already have one date lined up for this weekend.....lets see if I can get two. Ha ha. Nerdy!

Some may ask...

People have seemed to ask me a continous question throughout my life. Ever since I was 3rd grade I can remember the first person asking me why I smiled so much and if I was ever not happy. Well of course I get down! I am human. However, I do know this. I know that I came into the world being overly empathtic to many different things in the world. I was born as a clair-sentinent...which is where you are very in tune with feelings.....whether it be yourself, other people, places, situations and so forth. I have sensed so much heart break in the world....there is so much sadness and despair, turmoil and disease. I have always been able to feel others feelings, even as a kid- I could sense adults pain. There are millions of people crying out for answers, seeking for the light. I used to get so overly compassionate that I would see simple things like a homeless man on the streets and think about it for weeks. Or my heart would literally break for the kid with severe acne in high school. Or in college, I heard about a girl who was my age and was killed in a plane crash, and the pain for her family haunted me literally for months. However, I learned that wasn't serving anyone. ATTENTION: THERE IS SOO MUCH URGENCY FOR THE HEALING AND PROGRESSION OF HUMANITY!! There is no time for sarcasm, negativity or selfishness! So in my own small way of contributing, I have always figured that I can be the difference. I can make small changes in the world by beginning with a smile. The world can be brighter starting with me. So I am always striving to seek after the beauteous things in this life. I like to post as much positive and happy or inspiring things as I can because these are the things that riipple out a positive energy. And everything is energy. Some people have said I live in a naive positive bubble, or fantasy world in the past. This is not true at all. I am very aware of what's going on. But why dwell? Dwelling and worrying only feeds the pain, while focusing on the good is 6 times more powerful an effect. There is so much good around us, so much beauty and light- we just have to turn our faces toward it. My Grandma Hails used to walk into a dark room, woosh open the blinds and exclaim the quote from the bible, "And then there was LIGHT!" So this is why I may seem like I only like to post positive things and like to smile so much and so forth......he he, I was just giving this some thought tonight and thought I would articulate my reasoning for having sooooooo much constant positive stuff around me.....like my mirror that reads, "smile," hanging on the wall..........or my yellow background on this blog, or that little cupcake to the right that says, "life is sweet." :)

A tranquil heart.

"The greatest bestowal in the world of existence is a tranquil heart, and it is impossible for man to obtain a tranquil heart save thru the good pleasure of the Lord. That is, man may so adorn the temple of his being with lofty attributes and philanthropic deeds as to be pleasing at the Threshold of the Almighty. This is the only Path and there is no other Path. My point is this: Let all your thoughts, you ideals, your aims and purposes revolve day and night around one common object -- that is to live in accord with the good pleasure of the Lord. Then all the foors of felicity will be opened before your face, you will become succesful in all your undertakings, and you will be confirmed in all your accomplishments. The basic principle is the good pleasure of the Lord: and the good pleasure of God is obtained thru a tranquil heart, and the tranquility of the heart is only gained by living in accord with the divine teachings and exhortations. When a person attains to this station he is contented and peaceful. Then he will become prosperous in all affairs and enter into paradise. This station is joy succeeded by joy, confidence after confidence and Paradise after Paradise. Having reached this exalted station man lives in Paradise while upon this earth, is in Paradise when he leaves this world. His heart is in Paradise, his spirit is in Paradise and he is encircled by Paradise."

Gratitude.

I just want to put it out to the world how truly grateful I am for everything in my life right now. I am seriously so blessed with an abundance of great things- I love it! I am grateful to be getting a higher education- I seriously have grown to LOVE school and have grown confidence in it- which is such a blessing. I am grateful to be young, and single and independent. I am grateful for my family who is so supportive and believes in me in everything I want to do. I am grateful to God that He is there guiding my life and showing me the way. I am grateful for shelter, for food, for love and happiness. I am grateful for my immaculate health. I am grateful for freedom in this country! I am grateful for people who care to listen and care to talk. I am grateful that I am me, and that I get to experience all of life's adventures. I am grateful for everyone who has come into my life at different times, cause I know that I am who I am because of each person who has touched me. I am grateful to be ALIVE! What are YOU grateful for?

Life's most meaningful moments.

Tonight I went to my little Step Sisters wedding. It was soo sweet. She is freshly 18 years old, and getting married already. But the whole wedding was so sweet- it touched my heart. It was a modest wedding, but yet charming and endearing. All 15 of us (about) stood in a canyon, as a very sweet country song played and the bridesmaids, flower girl, and she walked down the aisle. It was one of those moments for me that makes life matter. I forgot about everything else in the world around me, my life, my duties, where I was. I was taken entirely into that moment and felt my heart flutter as she graciously and sweetly walked down the aisle- that moment every girl dreams about her whole life. My heart raced and felt a rush as I saw two young loves meeting each other to devote their lives to one another. As she approached nearer, I literally felt as if my spirit was melting into a lovely bliss. The music was playing, and I was caught totally and 100% in that moment of feeling that adrenaline, that passion, that excitement and love. Her cute husband waited to greet at the end of the aisle surrounded by trees. This wedding was very simple and humble- yet I think that was what was so touching to me. All these worldly things are just 'things.' We don't need 'things' to create pure love. Love is just love. Nothing else in the world matters- except that inner love for another person. And that was what I found so sweet- I could feel the wholesome, pure, true love between the two.

I left feeling inspired as I know that true love does exist out there. I have had quite a change of heart in the last year or so, as I had at one point completely given up on its existence. I know that love is there, and its a beautiful thing to feel you are combining two souls, two people with a lifetime of memories, two hearts, two individuals with a whirl wind of emotions, ideas and dreams of their own into one heart, one soul and uniting them in an eternal harmony with one another.

It can be easy to get stuck in the mundane day to day mechanics of life. However, these are the moments that make life matter. These are the moments that make all the hard work that we do worth while. These are the moments that take our breath away, and re-unite our hearts with spirit. What has been one of those most meaningful moments for you?

That mystical 4 lettered word.

I feel that something we all as individuals crave and long for is a soul connection with another human being. Our hearts know the truth that we are much deeper than our bodies or what society labels us as. We are a soul, a spirit, an energy, a force, a power, that longs to connect that power with something higher and or with someone else. What is life without love? Love is the purpose of our lives.

But love, is much more than just a 4 lettered word. Love has so many endless meanings that our ego minds could never possibly figure it out. Love is a feeling, a soul consuming, time diminishing, dazzling, exquisite feeling. Yet this description may only refer to a romantic love- while there are also many other types of love. There is unconditional love for family members, love for friends, love for yourself, love for God, love for love for humanity and your service to it, and of course romantic love. Every individual on this planet is endowed with the capacity to love and be loved, for this is the purpose of our creation. Sometimes it is easy to go on auto pilot in our rushed society and country, that love can be set aside although we do the motions of it. It takes a conscious effort to open and expand our hearts to a deeper level of love. Again, our ego minds can't comprehend this. There is no logic in love. It is not a black and white mathematical equation. Rather- it is our spirits that if it is earnestly strived for, can experience a magical level of this 4 lettered word. It takes work however to awaken our soul, remove our ego mind, and expand to this mystical level of love.

I think one of the greatest losses is a life lived without discovering the inner mysteries of divinity and the powers that reside within your very own heart. I love this quote by Baha'u'llah, "Regard man as a mine rich in inestimable values." To me this quote means indeed each person has a mine of gems invested within only waiting to be discovered. Spiritual traits and qualities are ever unfolding in our selves and life becomes interesting when we take the time to embrace them.

I really do know and believe that each person is waiting for or striving for that soul connection with another person. We all want to meet that special one our heart fits with- this longing is instilled within our souls because otherwise we wouldn't ever want to get married- or reproduce the human race!! Ha- but really. This 4 lettered word is an on-going eternal lesson to be learned and grown through and in many, many aspects of this life. That is exciting news.

Time flies when you're havin' fun!

We are almost one month into the semester- and boy has time flown! This is what I have REALLY been doing all this time. ;)

*

"Man is, in reality, a spiritual being, and only when he lives in the spirit is he truly happy. This spiritual longing and perception belongs to all men alike..."


~Abdul-Baha

I love college!

I love college!. I love it! I can't even imagine my life without it. I feel like I finally, finally have the full hang out what college requires- and now I can really just enjoy it instead of fretting most of the time! It is so fun! I really think this is the time of life!! I am SO glad I decided to stay in school to get my B.S. and not have put it off- I can't even belive I considered otherwise! Its great. :)

My Apartment!

When I moved in 3 weeks ago, you must know that my apartment was pretty disgusting! It constantly wreaked, was dirty, had junk sitting everywhere- it made me hardly want to be here! So the last few days I took charge, cleaned all day, ACTUALLY took the trash out and come to find out it hadn't been taken out in 3 weeks- that was the smell! I cleaned up all the junk, vaccumed, and decorated with some lights and flowers. I made our house a home tonight- I love it! I feel so much more fresh now!

Friday night was so fun!

Last night was such a fun night! I saw Megan after school, and she let me take her car. My Dad dropped off money for groceries which was sooo nice!! So then I went grocery shopping, got some food.....and spent only $5 and got some decorations to decorate my house. I came home and decorated my living room with white lights and maroon tule on the wall. It looks cute- but still needs some work. Then a kid from my Mass Media Writing class came over and we made pizza and just talked and hung out! It was really fun, it felt so collegeish. lol. Anyway- that's all- it was a fun friday night!

Communication

There is so much out there- I mean so much in the universe, so many feelings, so much power, so much that is beyond our comprehension. Why do we have to be so limited to only be able to express them through language and words? Sometimes I wish I could communicate with people just through feelings....like your spirit to another spirit- or heart to heart...and the message would be communicated perfectly. I think our words and use of language is like a veil, while it does well for us- we have no idea how much is really out there that we just can't comprehend because we only have so many words to express it. Maybe this is how the spirit world is- we don't have to take time to use language or words- our spirits do all the communicating and understanding. To me- this would be an ideal world.

The true seeker.

"Only when the lamp of search, of earnest striving, of longing desire, of passionate devotion, of fervid love, of rapture, and ecstasy, is kindled within the seeker's heart, and the breeze of His loving-kindness is wafted upon his soul, will the darkness of error be dispelled, the mists of doubts and misgivings be dissipated, and the lights of knowledge and certitude envelop his being.

At that hour will the mystic Herald, bearing the joyful tidings of the Spirit, shine forth from the City of God resplendent as the morn, and, through the trumpet-blast of knowledge, will awaken the heart, the soul, and the spirit from the slumber of negligence. Then will the manifold favours and outpouring grace of the holy and everlasting Spirit confer such new life upon the seeker that he will find himself endowed with a new eye, a new ear, a new heart, and a new mind. He will contemplate the manifest signs of the universe, and will penetrate the hidden mysteries of the soul. Gazing with the eye of God, he will perceive within every atom a door that leadeth him to the stations of absolute certitude. He will discover in all things the mysteries of divine Revelation and the evidences of an everlasting manifestation."

-Baha'u'llah

UVU

My apartment had a carnival tonight! It was way fun. Here's some pics. :)

Inspiration.

What is inspiration anyway?


Inspiration-Getting a head to toe electrifying rush that consumes your being and in that moment you know some sort of truth was spoken to the very core of who you are. This feeling then penetrated your soul on some level and it felt as if time stopped. NOW is the only moment existing, and suddenly an overwhelming desire permeates your existence to create something new,a sort of awakening of something more expansive, something more glorious and better than you had thought even existed maybe just 5 short seconds ago.
Inspiration is the number one motivator of all humanity. Let me mention that the root word in 'Motivate' is 'Mot' which means to move . And yes, inspiration means-to move. When a group, or an individual is inspired, hence moved deeply beyond an Ego level, a shift is created in the tribal consciousness. Which is good news! Humanity is ever advancing and always has been. Look at how far we have advanced worldwide, and as societies since the prehistorical days, B.C. years, even from the 1920's to 2008. Look at how things have transformed and things are available to us that could have never been imagined before. Why? Because people followed that gut instinct, that prompting to do something bigger. Thomas Edison had a that overcoming deep feeling of inspiration and was overcome with a vision. His vision was that people all around the world could see at any time in the day. He wanted to create light, and he did. Because he did, many decades later we enjoy the benefit of it. All because one man took that overwhelming feeling of inspiration and flew.
People are inspired everyday, and even multiple times a day. It can be something big, or it can be something infintesmally small. But what I am saying is that really inspiration is the only way things get done. One person gets inspired to do something, then does it, and then they inspire another. The ripple effect. Our world is ever advancing and while others believe the world is coming to an end, and falling to shreds, I believe those are moments only for progression. People since the beginning of time have had absurd beliefs about the 'world ending' and other things like the world being flat. Then Columbus followed his prompting, that overwhelming desire that there is something more out there, and discovered a whole new world out there. Now I am not saying we are going to discover new continents, but I think you get my point. I believe humanity has had so many hardships throughout history, but guess what, we have learned and are doing things differently now. Things aren't perfect, but I believe we are moving toward that. We are moving toward a Great Peace, a Golden age. And all it takes if for each person to stand up, take accountability and be their contribution to the world by following that overwhelming, soul consuming, time diminishing feeling of Inspiration. And when this happens, this inspiration will spread at the speed of light, and we will become just that closer to a heaven on earth.

Soon to be Mrs.Katie Bachelor Danner.

Lol- yep! Its true. I will have my B.S. in no time. JK! I still have 1/2 years left- but hey! I am getting close. :) I moved down to Orem on Tuesday and got into my apartment, and then started classes on Wednesday. It is so crazy moving into a whole new life in the snap of a finger! ha ha- I mean its a new city, new school, new friends, new classes, everything. I like my classes though- Communication is definitely a good major for me. Well being that I am only 3 days in- ha ha I like them all for the most part. :) Here are some pics of my new room. :) Oh, and I mostly took a picture of my bed because my Dad bought me new polka dot sheets that I am sooo in love with. ha ha.

Striving for personal excellence.

I saw this quote on my friend Debora's status today and I keep thinking about it now.

"Many people think that excellence is achieved through competition with others. But, in fact, competition entangles us even further into the trappings of society. The force that drives us towards excellence should be our ardent desire to achieve... what God has bountifully ordained for us." ~Ruhi Book 7

The Feast of Names

Last night was the Feast of Names and my Mom and I hosted it. It was so nice! I made this video for it- but I wasn't able to show it because the DVD wouldn't work. :( The Feast of Names means like names or attributes of God. So check it out! I hope you like it. :)

Lils!

This is my niece Lily. I have spent my summer with her and she is my dream baby! If I knew I was having a baby like her- I wouldn't be scared to have kids. She is so round and chubby in all the right places and has moon eyes when she smiles! She is content and peaceful most of the time, and laughs/ smiles at all the perfect moments! She is soooo precious!

Make this youth radiant

"Oh Lord! Make this youth radiant, and confer Thy bounty upon this poor creature. Bestow upon him knowledge, grant him added strength at the break of every morn. and guard him within the shelter of Thy protection so that he may be free from error and may devote himself to the service to Thy cause, may guide the wayward, lead the hapless and awaken the heedless, that all may be blessed with Thy rememberance and praise. Thou art the Mighty and the Powerful."

-Abdul-Baha

Developing inner strengths.

Getting old and gray- I have given this a lot of thought. While a youthful physical appearance will fade, I believe that its the inner self we have developed that will shine through at that point. My grandma hails is the perfect example of this....she spent all the days of her life improving herself in all aspects, and mostly spiritually. She developed her spirit and her love for others and God, and it truly paid off. She is 92 years old and is currently suffering Alzheimers disease, but she is sooo beautiful to me. Her hair is gray, her teeth are gone, and she is very wrinkley. But her eyes are so radiant, her hands are so smooth, and she is sooo loving. I can feel so much love surrounding her whenever I am in her prescence. This is how I want to be. I know my youth and physical attraction wont last forever, but that if I work on myself now, develop all of my spiritual qualities inside now, then I will have something to show for this life when I am 70, 80 or even 90. I truly, truly want to strive to be my best self in all aspects. Mentally, emotionally, physically, spiritually, and socially...(and financially too!) I mean it. I want to be better, more loving, more radiant, more spiritual, more caring, more wise, more honest, more sophisticated, more educated, more joyful, and then I want to use all of these great things I have learned and share them with the world to make others want to be better.

I also want to seriously strive to be sooo much better right now because I want to attract the most perfect mate for me. I want to push myself to be better in all aspects for my future husband. So that when he meets me, he will feel like I am everything he has ever looked for and be totally fulfilled with who I am.

The Notebook

"I am no one special, just a common man with common thoughts. I've led a common life. There are no monuments dedicated to me, and my name will soon be forgotten. But in one respect, I've succeeded as gloriously as anyone who ever lived. I've loved another with all my heart and soul, and for me, that has always been enough."

-Noah from The Notebook.


This is what I want.

Dear Mom, Dear Dad

Dear Mom,

I want to say thank you so much for being such a role model to me in my life. You have been my inspiration in my life ever since I was really little. I admire how much you brigthen this world up. I am so grateful that you've always pushed me to be my best self......at times when I was so low, so down and so desperate- it was your bright light shining for me that has kept me going. I have always loved that you always tell me how much MORE there is out there in the world for me to learn, to experience. Just when I think I have reached my limit of growth, you always remind that there is soooo much yet to come, which keeps me motivated!! I love how you are always so nurturing, so healing, so caring. Thank you Mom, for always being my friend.

Love always,

Katie

Dear Dad,

Thank you so much Dad for being my strength and my support throughout my life. I have no idea where I would be without you. I admire you so much Dad for your stability, your strength, your courage to always do what is right. Thank you so much Dad for always, always supporting me in everything I do- I have always known that I can truly count on you for anything and everything. I love your devotion to God and the church, your firmness in everything good and true. I love you Dad, for always treating me like your special daughter and for always being so down to earth. I am such a blessed girl to have you as my Dad.

Love always,

Katherine

My little Bells.

This is my niece Arabella, she is sooo stinking cute! I love her so much! She is the ideal kid where she says all the things you wish every kid would say. She is truly a gem! She told me yesterday how she spanked my Mom and put her in time out, then she spanked my step Mom, then she spanked her own Mom and put them all in time out. I laughed so hard!

Any ideas? My very own photography.

I am pretty much in love with photography ever since I took my photography class last year at SUU, and so I have been thinking I would love to somehow put them onto cards with quotes inside that match them.....then put a matching envelope and cover them in plastic and sell them to friends and family. Do you have any ideas of how I could do this? Here are some of the pictures I would like to use for them.....

Girls days!

Last week a friend of Anne and mine took us out to lunch and to get pedicures- and she paid for it all! How sweet is that!?! I feel so fresh :) Also my long search for swim suit is finally over! I was looking for so long for a good swimsuit and I finally found a really cute one that was on sale. It is a tankini with white and navy blue polka dots. It is so cute! Also! I almost forgot, I got some new earrings. They are like diamonds in the shapes of flowers! So stinking cute.

I am madly, crazy, passionately....

in love with this life. It is beautiful, scary, exhilerating, hard, lovely, amazing, wonderful, joyful, tiresome, lonely, painful, blissful, sad, nuts, intriguing, fun and it pulls me up, down, around and around through twists and turns, high dives and low dives. But in the end, all that matters, is who I love, how I love, and shooting for the stars giving it the best I've got. And for me, that will always be enough.

"If a man empties his purse into his head, no one can take it from him. An investment in knowledge always pays the highest interest." -Ben Franklin

So I have finally decided what I am going next with my life. I am going to UVU this fall to finish my B.S. I am excited to get moving on it- to have a busy life again. My major is Mass Communication and I am excited!

Do it anyway.

People are often unreasonable, illogical, And self-centered; Forgive them anyway.
If you are kind, people may accuse you Of selfish, ulterior motives;Be kind anyway.
If you are successful, you will win someFalse friends and some true enemies; Succeed anyway.
If you are honest and frank; People may cheat you; Be honest and frank anyway.
What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight; Build anyway.
If you find serenity and happiness, they may be jealous; Be happy anyway.
The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow; Do good anyway.
Give the world the best you have, and it may never be enough; Give the world the best you've got anyway.

You see, in the final analysis it is between you and God It was never between you and them anyway.

-Mother Theresa

The late-iz-est!

Hey whats up! This is whats new. First of all- for some reason I am really missing living in Las Vegas suddenly. I lived out there last summer with my sister for a while and I lovvvved it. I would never settle down there- but it sure was an exciting place to live for a while. And when I lived there- I took full advantage of that city. I even gambled and won $20 bucks one time! LOL. What else is new? I didn't get the Wedding Consultant job- which actually I am relieved of! I have my whole life to have a full time serious job- I am enjoying my time being free and going with the wind. :) I am most likely going to Utah Valley University this fall....I just scheduled an appointment with an advisor to map out my degree. Major-Communication, Minor-Photography. 4 semesters left to get my B.S. is nothin! I gotta bite the bullet and get it done. I also did an application yesterday to do a month of service out a school in California, much like to the school I volunteered at last summer in Maine. I'll let ya'll know if I get that. I said I would love to serve from July 20th-August 20th. So we'll see if I get in or not. Who knows. Anyway....I baked banana bread yesterday and today- its delish! Each day that passes, I love my single life a little more and get a little more scared of having kids. Yikes!!! Right now, my life could take ANY sort of turn and could go in any way....all I know is I probably should stick with school. Other than that- we'll see whats in store for me!

A quick little update:)

My life has been slow yet busy at the same time lately. Although I have no job or school- I like to keep myself actively doing things so I stay happy:) Since last year I have lost almost 25 pounds! Holy cow- you wouldn't have even guessed I was that big! haha- but I am gratefully down to my ideal/regular weight now. I am doing Ruhi classes on Sundays, activities with Anne and the babies every single day, keeping up on excercising, doing at least one service (whether big or small) a day, baking tons, hanging out with old friends, staffing at Impact, getting close with my Mom(sooo fun) reading, watching movies and using this time for a good introspection period. It is great! I am pretty happy right now- although sometimes I stop and think- what am I doing besides sitting around!!? lol- But I remind myself that I am not sitting around- I am actively busy doing productive things! Plus- I still don't know about the Wedding Planner job- so I will keep you posted. I am supposed to find out tomorrow. Oh- and about the whole marriage thing, yikes! Not so sure. I am finding a lot of commitment issues and pessimism about it actually being a good thing peeking up on me- not wanting marriage at all at certain points- but I am working through it, and know I'll come out alive. ha ha. Anyway- thast whats up with me for a quick little update!

Women are so special

In our society I think it is common that women just don't like each other. I have heard this a lot and it makes me so sad! I truly believe that women are so special and play an incredibly unique role in this world. Someone recently told me- no one can get closer to a womans heart than another woman. It is true!! Here is a song that I love so much and it is dedicated to ALL the women out there reading this.

Child of Light by Mindy Glehill

Did you ever wonder who you are
do your ever wonder as you stare into the stars
Where you began And how you got this far from home?
Have you ever walked along the shore
Have you ever seen the water dancing back and forth
Did you look insideTo see if there was more to life
There’s a dream taking wings
There’s a voice that wants to sing
Even in the deepest darkest night
The Torch is raised to the sky
There are hands that hold it high
You were born to keep it burning bright
You were made to fly you were meant to shine
Child of lightYou will never ever stand alone
You were never called to bare your burdens alone
Where there’s fear Love will take control
And lead you on
There’s a dream taking wings
There’s a voice that wants to sing
Even in the deepest darkest night
The Torch is raised to the sky
There are hands that hold it high
You were born to keep it burning bright
You were made to fly you were meant to shine
Child of lightThere’s a dream taking wings
There’s a voice that wants to sing
Even in the deepest darkest night
The Torch is raised to the sky
There are hands that hold it high
You were born to keep it burning bright
You were made to fly you were meant to shine
Child of light

Let's talk a little bit about magic..:)

It’s really funny but I never noticed how often I use the word ‘magic’ until my friends and roommates pointed it out to me numerous times. I have even had several people tell me I reminded them of Jazelle from the Disney movie Enchanted. ha! I didn't know how to take that at first- but now I suppose it is a good thing because she is so sweet and sees everything as magical.My friends find it entertaining or endearing that I very easily and often find things to be ‘magical.’ But I would like to make a statement here; it is true! There IS magic all around us! I don’t mean superstitious creepy like black magic-magic, that is not what I mean. I am talking about the magic you find in Disney movies, fairytales, or children’s stories. I LOVE and I mean dearly love the Disney movie Enchanted because to me it conveys a true feeling of pure magic. At the end of the movie Carrie Underwood has a music video called “Ever Ever After” and I love it so much. She starts it off saying “Storybook endings, fairytales coming true. Deep down inside we all wanna believe they still do.” The song also says later, “Start a new fashion and wear your heart on your sleeve. Sometimes you reach what’s real just by making believe. Unafraid unashamed, there is joy to reclaim in this world- and you might even wind up being glad to be you.” It is so stinking cute! Here is the link to the video, you should check it out! :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-nRGC720Qak


I find magic in so many things, specifically speaking when I am surrounded by trees for some reason. I absolutely love being surrounded by luscious green trees. I know for a fact this is why I would prefer living in the East as opposed to the West side of the country because of the greenery. Not to mention the fireflies that buzz in and out at dusk and through the night time. If you have never experienced fire flies then you must not know what real life magic is. I remember at one point last summer in Maine, a few of us went on a little walk. We walked through massive trees that stood so high up we could hardly see the sky. They were grand and majestic surrounding us as we walked on our little pathway clearing. The moon was bright and there was a river to the left of us hidden behind some trees. We walked along and finally came to a clearing where we were presented with a meadow. We looked out into the meadow and with the smooth sound of the river behind us, the moon shining bright, and the stars sparkling high in the sky, we saw hundreds of sparkles flashing on and off throughout the entire meadow and hidden in the trees. I could not believe my eyes. There were literally hundreds of fireflies flashing on and off at different moments creating a truly magical arena for us to see. I seriously gasped ofr air at how beautiful it was- I could hardly even believe my eyes. It was like a movie, or a fairytale. I know that magic exists- and truly we just have to be open to it and seek after it. This experience is only one where I felt magic in my own life. And ha ha- I can’t blame my friends and family for saying I use the magic quite a bit- because I do! Haha….

My jewel.

Greenacre summer 2008. The most dreamy time of my life, I like to think of my memories there like a precious jewel that will stay in my heart forever. How grateful and blessed I am to have served at this glorious place! (Please read the bottom part too.)
The park in New Hampshire

Unity

Greenacre!=TONS of GREEN ACRES

Shcopfloker- the girls dorm

Out my window- it was my own paradise

Visiting with guests from around the whole world

Singing in the talent show with Roya :)

All the volunteers threw me a surprise party! Lucky me!

Greg, Me and Zach=WAY TOO MUCH FUN, and truest friends of my life.

Fireworks at the beach on Thursday nights

Cute little cottages where guests stay

Eating in the dining room with some other volunteers

Oh Navid, the goofiest kid I've known

My Best friend in the world- Nastaran and Me a.k.a the Persian version of me. :)

Now that summer is approaching, I can't help but tremendously miss my experiences from last summer. Last summer I went to Eliot Maine for 2 months to do volunteer work with other kids from around the world. I went out there on a whim of faith not exactly knowing what it was all about, but that in my heart I knew it was my place. Even though it was a short 2 months, it truly feels like it lasted years and even decades because it meant the world to me. The period in my life last summer easily overshadows many other periods because I grew leaps and bounds, and could never put into words how sacred and absolutely amazing this journey was. Don't get me wrong, the work was HARD and LONG, and some of the hardest work I have ever done in my life. We worked 9-12 hour days, 6 days a week for no pay. But that was the beauty of it- offering my service opened my eyes to see of what I am capable of giving and cherishing the importance of service. I became closer with the volunteers there than I have with most people I have gone to school, work or even lived with. I have recently asked my friends from Green acre if they ever think about last summer and they said almost every day, and usually dream about it every other night. Here are some highlights of this be-jeweled time of my life.

An eventful few days

The other day I went to the Aquarium with Megan, Anne and all 4 kids. It was a blast! And we got to even touch the sting rays! The octupus was definitely my favorite as it was fascinating to see its 8 massive legs. The kids were having a blast with all the underwater animals! Then today I tagged along with Anne and her babies to the Aviary at Liberty Park. It was GORGEOUS! I think my favorite part was the beautiful trees that hovered the entire area. I am definitely a huge fan of greenery as opposed to the desert/dry land. Here are some pics from both!

Birds.

For the last month or so, I have been noticing birds an extraordinary amount. I usually don't think twice about them but lately it has different. I see them all day and all kinds of them- possibly they are just in my awareness now. I have once read or heard back in the day that this can mean you are taking new flight in your life- ready to soar and have new beginnings. That would be awesome if it were true! But I just thought it was interesting.

SUU Graduation.

Even though its a simple Associate degree, I am glad I went to the gradution because it is a marker for my life- and for the next step. I will probably get my Bachelors eventually- not sure where and when. But here are some of the pics from the day. :)

Dream job, already?

On Saturday I went to graduation at SUU, and I am so grateful that my Mom pushed me to go. I feel complete with my time at SUU now since I am not going back. Anyway- it was a blast.


So Saturday I graduate- on Monday I go in for an interview for a simple summer job. I applied at The Canterbury Place in Bountiful (which is a wedding reception center) for a server job. In the interview she said, "with your schooling and experience I am going to interview you for our Wedding Consultant Position opening up in a month....I think that would be a better fit for you." I was stunned! Everything I've been working up toward- here already? Am I truly ready to start in a full time job? I haven't had a 'real' job in like 2 and half years. Kind of intimidating! Goodness. I feel like everything I have been working up toward- is here......It's strange because my mindset for the last several years has been all about 'finishing' and 'enduring to the end' and 'just pushing through' now I am here- it's kind of weird dealing with the change. Lol. I know that in the end- it always, always, always works out. That is the good news. :) Also the good news is that I might be getting my DREAM JOB soon!!! Woo hoo! :)

Mini High School reunion

Tonight was Mallorys reception- and it was fun to see old high school friends....! Here is a picture of the girls. :)

Spring time!

My Mom sisters and I went to eat at The Garden restaurant and then we walked around Temple Square to see the gorgeous flowers. It was such a beautiful day!

Women and Mothers.

I often ponder the value of women in this world. I know and believe Women have now finally reached equality with Men in this day and age. It is obvious that Women are just as capable and or more than men in every way and that has been proven through numerous career industries. I believe it was absolutely essential that women make our mark in the world proving our intellect, strength and equal capacties with men. It was necessary for this to happen for society to advance and for the unstifling of women throughout many generations. However, now that women are equally in the workforce with men, who are the nurturers anymore? Who are the soft, gentle and loving ones who glue a family together? I believe this now has become unbalanced as moms are now leaving their babies to maintain full time careers. While this is liberating and exciting to see what my own gender can posses, it also saddens my heart because I believe the gentle, feminine woman plays a crucial role in society. Women are to be unconditionally loving, gentle, supreme and upright. Women are the mothers- the primary educator of future generations. I believe that it is time to regain that balance that has now suddenly been lost in our transition of freeing the female gender. I want to be a stay at home mom, my full time job will be to love, teach, strengthen, nurture, educate, advise, mentor, take care of not just physically but mentally, emotionally and spiritually as well. I want to regain the traditional role of a mother from back when families used to be the backbone of society. Families used to be so strong and created more valuable citizens to society. We owe it to the moms, for the truly deserve Phd's. Being a mom is a more valuable and crucial job than any other that I can think of. Here is a quote that I have loved very much.



"The world has enough women who are tough; we need women who are tender. There are enough women who are coarse; we need women who are kind. There are enough women who are rude; we need women who are refined. We have enough women of fame and fortune; we need more women of faith. We have enough greed; we need more goodness. We have enough vanity; we need more virtue. We have enough popularity; we need more purity."

-Margaraet N. (can't remember the last name.)

Cupcakes for my birthday!!

My Mom and sisters sent me a box full of cupcakes for my birthday!!! I seriously want to shed a tear because it touched me so much. I have been having a really hard time lately- and I am so grateful for their love. These cupcakes are soooo adorable and she also gave me the cute cupcake holder!!! :) I love it. And thanks Mom.

Chastity.

"There is a beauty every girl has- a gift from God, as pure as the sunlight, as sacred as life. It is a beauty that all men love, a virtue that wins all men's souls. That beauty is chastity. Chastity without skin beauty may enkindle the soul; skin beauty without chastity can kindle only the eye. Chastity enshrined in the mold of true womanhood will hold true love eternally."

-President David O. Mckay

My Birthday!!

Today I am beginning my 22nd year in this world- March 31st! What a great day!! I am so happy for all the wonderful friends and people around me- thank you!! I got so many birthdah wishes! :) Cori made me 22 pink cupcakes, Skye made me an egg hunt, tina took me out to dinner, and then Dani and Adell also took me dinner again! It was such a great day....I am blessed to be alive, healthy, whole and happy!!

Now my gift to the world on my Birthday, PLEASE watch this video!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zf8zqdu3TtA

College Decision.

Today I went ahead and registered for classes at SUU for this fall. My major is Interpersonal Communication and minor is Photography. Funny huh! Anyway- I am registered and all ready to go for classes.......but I am scared because is this truly the right decision to make for my life right now? Is it the best thing for me to stay down here for 2 more years and get my B.S.? My hesitations are that I don't know where to live next year, I don't have many friends left- dating is slim to none here and this city can get a little boring after a while. But I'll have a bachelors..........Maybe I should just stick out whatever I have to and then I'll have even greater rewards after. OR there is this Event/Meeting Planner certificate that Salt Lake Community College offers. It is a year program. I could forget school down here and go up to Salt Lake and do that. What do you think would be best? I would greatly appreciate input. :)

Curlz!

I did my hair very curly today! Do you like!? lol- this is about the extent of my day. How nice! Anyway- to any of my friends or family reading this- I truly love you so much!! I am blessed to have each of you in my life. Thank you!! (Just thought I'd make a shout out.)

Spring!

My favorite season, the most beautiful time of the year, the glorious spring is on it's way! I love spring the best of all the 4 seasons. I love the fresh air after winter time and that the spring of new life is in blossom. I love the new flowers and especially my favorite- tulips. My birthday is March 31st and honestly I don't think I could love the day my birthday is on more than I do. It is right at the beginning of spring and the very last day of March- not to mention only every other month has 31 days. He he. I really love it. Anyway- I also made spring cupcakes too! Pink, yellow and green with jellybeans. :) Now I must find people to bring them to. What a beautiful day!

2-2s!

I came home for spring today and had baby Mia Grace try on all of my tutus all at once!! She is so gorgeous. I just thought I would post these pictures cause it was nice to see my tutus come to life! :)

Blessed!!!!!

Ok, so while my last blog still holds true right now, I am going to choose to focus on what I DO have in my life right now and all the blessings around me. :) I am a blessed girl! First off- the reason I put so many pictures on my blog on the right hand side is because I am so fortunate to have called forth such awesome people in my life. I have always been surrounded by tons of people and I am so grateful for it! I have met sooo many incredible people throughout my life and especially in the last 2 1/2 years. I am grateful for their examples to me! Next off, I am so grateful for all the clothing, shelter and food I have! I get free room and board right now....seriously could that get any sweeter? I friggin' love eet! I eat as much as I want every day and it is all free. :) I also am grateful that while I don't neccesarily have the 'trendy' clothes, I think my clothes are cute. I love my clothes because I feel like I pick simplier things but with bright colors. I am grateful for my awesome family! They are so supportive of everything I do and have been my foundation and support for so many years. I am not only grateful for my close family, but for my extended families too! I grew up in such a positive atmosphere and for that I am blessed. Next- I am grateful to be getting an education. Right now I am studying for an Economics test tomorrow, an Astronomy test, Math homework and going to the gym really soon. How many people around the world have the opportunity to get not only an education- but a higher education? I am blessed. I am also so extremely grateful for my health. My health has always been in impeccable shape- My body is strong, and always in good health. I am grateful! Next off- I am grateful for all of my positive and uplifting memories throughout my life that have made me who I am. I feel like I have had a number of positive influences around me and this has made me see life through eyes of happiness. There are sooo many things I am grateful for- truly. However my last thing I will mention for now is I am soooooooooo grateful for how ridiculously funny my whole family is. I mean seriously, our material is getting passed around the whole world. Ha ha! There are always exciting moments with my family. So for all these things, I say thank you!!!! Thank you for making me me. :)

What now?

I am almost 22 years old, what do I do now? I have done what I have planned up until now. I wanted to move away to college, live in a dorm, get a college degree. Done that. I wanted to get very involved in a college atmosphere as much as I could......did that. I wanted to go away for a summer to far away place and have new experiences and meet people from around the whole world. I did that. I wanted to date lots of different guys, I have done that too. I wanted to do all the trainings at Impact...Done all of them. I wanted to find my own spiritual path- found it. I have wanted to do service in another country, so I applied to do a year of service in Haifa Israel. I got declined this time so I have to wait another year before I can re-apply. I applied to do a summer of service in Africa- and the trip got cancelled. So I have done my best in that area. My question is- what do I do now? I can stay here at SUU and finish my bachelors degree for the next two years....I have loved SUU and it has served me sooo well. However- to be honest I am bored with SUU now. Suu is a young school- 18-22 only. I have done well here- I have been on the SUU Choir, wrote for the SUU Journal Newspaper, Resident Assistant, Resident Housing Assoication President, and have at least tried out for all the other things you can get involved in at Suu. Not to mention, everyone, and it is not an understatement when I say everyone my age around here is married. The only people left single like me are the 18 year olds. If I stay at Suu- I'm 100 and 10% percent positive I am not going to be meeting my 'mate' here. What are my other options? Go to the U and finish my Bachelors? If I went to the U I would definitely have more options socially which would make me happier- but the U is way bigger, more expensive and harder classes. My point of this blog is that I am truly very lost in the moment. I have no idea what to do next. I literally feel like I have done everything I had planned for quite some time, and now I am so unsure of whats next in my life. I had a wonderful guy who would marry me I am sure right now if I was ready- but I didn't feel it was right. It's so hard! I want to get married- I am starting to feel like the last kid picked for the team. Or the last one standing up after playing musical chairs. Everyone is moving on, getting married and starting their lives. I am so unsure- where do I head next. What do I do now? I am only a measly 21 years old, but also feel like life is starting to pass me by at my old age of 21. I need prayers- prayers for direction, and comfort cause I am feeling so lonely right now. I just broke it off with Zach as a final thing today and boy it is not easy. It is the most challenging things I have done in a long time. I didn't want to break up because I feel like I am ready to start moving in a new direction in my life- like making a marriage work for 'a fortress of well being.' But how could I make it work if my gut feeling wasn't a good one? But I wannnnnted it to be a good one. Why can't it be? Anyway, I'm praying for new direction- what to do next- cause honestly at this moment, I am all out of ideas and it scares me cause I have never been without a goal in mind......a hope for something fresh in the future. I feel aimless- not knowing where to go. Anyway- this is my blog. It's not meant to be a sad one- even though I am sad- I am just saying that for the first time in my life....I am truly not sure what is next for me.

Where Clouds Roll By

This song is dedicated to someone on this particular night- he knows who he is...doubt he'll ever read this, but it's more for my sake. I love the song We Belong Together from the Land Before Time. It's such a precious! song. I seriously have so many sweet memories with this song. And it is perfect for tonight.

Don't lose your way
With each passing day
You've come so far
Don't throw it away
Live believing Dreams are for weaving
Wonders are waiting to start
Live your story Faith, hope & glory
Hold to the truth in your heart
If we hold on together
I know our dreams will never die
Dreams see us through to forever
Where clouds roll by
For you and I Souls in the wind
Must learn how to bend
Seek out a star
Hold on to the end Valley, mountain
There is a fountain Washes our tears all away
Words are swaying Someone is praying
Please let us come home to stay
If we hold on together I know our dreams will never die
Dreams see us through to forever
Where clouds roll by
For you and I
When we are out there in the dark
We'll dream about the sun
In the dark we'll feel the light Warm our hearts, everyone
If we hold on together I know our dreams will never die
Dreams see us through to forever
As high as souls can fly
The clouds roll by For you and I

College Graduation! So in 2 months I am going to graduation to walk for my Associates degree. I feel kind of silly to do a walking graduation just for an A.S. But I really reallllly love the graduations- they are so inspiring. I picked my major the other day as well for my Bachelor degree.........I will be getting a Bachelor of Science in Interpersonal Communication. My minor is Hospitality Management. I have about 1 1/2 years- to 2 years at the most left for my B.S. How exciting! It's seeming more real now- not like this far off goal anymore. Yes!

Tutus!

I made tutus! Here are three of them, I think they are so cute for little girls. I am giving some to my nieces, as well as selling them. Let me know if you or anyone you know would be interested. :) Only $10. :)

What kind of man do I want?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27f6lR6dY7E
Please watch this video! Its awesome- and it has made me think again.....I honestly feel like she is talking about me and my relationships......for the most part anyway. Watch it and tell me what you think!

Whatever happened to Moonpies may I ask?

I remember when moon pies were a delish and deluctable treat. Tonight I gathered up $2.25 and went to the vending machines in my dorm. I was on a desperate search for a sweet midnight treat. So I bought a chocolate milk and was oh so excited to see that moon pies were only $1. So I bought one moon pie just for me. I brought it back to my room, and was crushed as I took my first bite. Whatever happened to moon pies may I ask? I remember when they used to be so marshmallowey and soft, and had an extra crunch in the cookie part. Now they are hard, and old tasting. They taste somewhat like card board. It hurts because as a kid I know that everyones eyes would light up when they saw a moon pie. Now they are so old news. The point of this story is that moon pies have not been the same for the last 10 years, and I don't see them making a comeback any time soon. It really is a shame. I remember when I was kid, moon pies were the top-knotch treat to buy at only 33 cents. Now they not only moved up the price, but they have decreased the quality drastically! Not to mention, the last moon pie I bought 2 months ago was HARD AS A ROCK. I mean it. It almost broke my tooth. I even consulted my friends and family about this issue- they feel the same way. Moon pies are a goner. Its time to wrap them up and send them off to people in a foreign land who might appreciate them, because we don't anymore!!

5 Continents.

Currently- I have to say it is pretty dang cool that I have friends that I keep in touch with friends on 5 different continents at this moment. Crazy awesome! I have 2 friends on missions in Guatemala, 2 friends in China, a friend in France, a friend in Ethiopia, 2 friends in Gambia, a friend in Kenya, a friend in New Zealand Australlia, and 2 friends in Canada. It is amazing! Isn't that great! I always wanted my life to be like this- where I had friends all over the world. I seriously love it. What amazing people too! :)

Livin the college life. :)

I love going to college. I have become a Katie I didn't know I could be, as it has refined my qualities and strengths, as well as tested my weaknesses. As much as I have complained and it has been hard- I truly do love it. It is an extraordinary experience that I will have each and every one of my kids do. It's really funny, but when I look back to my dreams as a little kid, and even in high school- I am exactly where I wanted to be at this age. It is so funny how that works. I always dreamed of moving away to college, living in a dorm, having good friends who were striving for higher things, living in a wholesome atmosphere, sticking to my standards, being a leader, going to classes and so forth. I mean- I don't even realize how much this experience is what I truly wanted. I have had so many opportunites at SUU: being on the SUU choir, writing for the SUU newspaper, being an RA, being RHA President, learning to ski, philosophy class, photography, yoga, and so much more. I love it down here, my mind has opened up in ways I never thought it could. I am able to critique the world in more distinct ways. I have 2 years left and I truly hope that this experience not only provides with me with the career of my choice, but I know that I will come out a more enriched and zealous individual who can offer more to the world because I have pursued these opportunities. It is invigorating to know what I have accomplished, and what I am now capable of.

KTs Craft Corner

I made these cute little barrettes tonight! I looove crafty stuff. I want to start making tutus for little girls and head bands as well.

Saturn, and my own thoughts on things.

First and foremost, last night I got up at 4 am to go to the Astronomy Observatory for my Astronomy Lab class to view Saturn. It was SO cool! We couldn't see much, but I could see Saturn as a planet and the rings around it. It was very tiny and this was the best picture I could get. If you look verrrry closely, you will see it although it is kind of blurry. Anyway I loooove my astronomy class- it is opening my mind up to think about bigger things around me. There is so much going on around us constantly that we are completely unaware of. Learning of the sky and the universe around us it has filled me with some great and pondering thoughts...

What a beautiful life we life in. What beautiful things God has surrounded us with. This planet and the Universe is truly a masterpiece that only something divine could create. It is a spectacular and mystical journey we can partake of if we only allow the worlds of the unknown unfold within us. This world and all it entails is truly an expansive and majestic place to live in. Amazing I tell ya!

Gym shirts= rich kids.

So I have always had this belief that people who spent $100's of dollars on specific gym gear were pretty bratty. I mean come on and admit it; whenever you go to the gym there are always the people who have fresh spanking new white shirts embedded with thousands of logos that says exactly who they are, where they come from and why they are important. Not to mention how do their gym shoes always look brand-new? I thought we were all working out getting dirty....why are their shoes so freshly white? I grew up as a poor kid so if we were going to work out, we scrounged up whatever we could find, possibly each others sweats or shorts. We would wear whatever shoes we could find, and holes and tears were usually all over these sweats or 'gym clothes'. There were certainly no specific clothing that was just for the Gym. So, as an adult I have officially bought my own 'real' gym equipment. This SUU shirt which I would have always classified as a rich, bratty kids (or adult) gear. I am pretty excited about it cause this means I am moving up in the rich world, I suppose. And I hadddd to take a picture of this fresh, spaking new gym shirt that I think now classifies me in a new group of society. ha.

Hello! I don't know much about blogging, but I have seen friends do it and it has inspired me. So I am going to give it a whirl. I am going to keep this blog about myself, my journeys and my dreams. It is an exciting time of life that is invigorating, fun and scary all at the same time- so I am going to keep tabs. As of right now I am 21 years old, I still have 2 years of college left to get my BA degree in Communication. I have TONS of dreams and aspirations constantly that sometimes my family and friends think I'm nuts cause I am always offering up new ideas for life without necessarily following them all through. (but hey I am just exploring all my options!) Anyway, so this is officially my first blog, lets see how things come along around here. :)