tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39313305101055592992024-03-05T07:45:35.367-07:00My Little Corner of SunshineMegan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.comBlogger57125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-45565182728236489262013-04-02T15:52:00.001-06:002013-04-02T15:52:22.897-06:00NEW BLOG!<span style="font-size: large;">It is true! My Little Corner of Sunshine has officially moved and changed to Our Little Corner of Sunshine. To keep up with our new little life together, come follow us at</span><br />
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Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-47627934422799015972012-11-04T15:59:00.000-07:002012-11-04T16:03:59.789-07:00Officially Official.Friday, October 19, 2012: the best day of my life, up to this point. A perfectly perfect evening. Another magic moment that happened. The night I got ENGAGED!<br />
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Yes, my friends, it is now officially official. I am ENGAGED!! And not just engaged to any old good-lookin' Joe-Schmo, but engaged to the neatest, most wonderful man for me. I get to marry my very best friend in the whole world. Sometimes I look at how mine and Eric's whole relationship has worked out so easily, and I wonder how in the world I got so lucky? I wonder if the Lord gets excited to watch two strangers meet and fall in love unexpectedly. I mean, everyone is a little bit of a sucker for a good love story, so I would imagine He might be too. :) And biased as I may be, I think that mine and Eric's is pretty wonderful! The Lord has truly blessed me and given me my Prince Charming. Call it cheesy, call it unoriginal...but it is so true! <br />
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So how did Eric pull off one of the biggest moments in a person's life? The moment that every girl imagines in her mind from the time she is young? The moment that every boy secretly wonders how he will pull it off perfectly? How did he propose? Oh baby, he did a great job!<br />
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<i>The Proposal</i><br />
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Eric and I had planned to go on a date to the Thanksgiving Point Gardens on Thursday, but had to adjust our plans a little for a good friend of ours to come and visit from Salt Lake. So the next day, we made plans to go there. I had a conference in Salt Lake that day and then met my mom and friend Jess to look at wedding dresses. (Clearly, we were planning on getting married and time was ticking, so dress shopping before the engagement was necessary. Don't judge haha.) That afternoon we went and looked at an apartment, so my mind wasn't thinking that he would propose on our date. Also, he had me convinced that he didn't have a ring yet...supposedly it was going to take a week or two to get in and he still needed to look around... You know, the classic ring bluff that I totally bought into.<br />
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So as we drove to Thanksgiving Point that night, I was just so pleased with the fact that I was with the boy I loved going on a darling little date. And, there was this incredibly beautiful sunset to help make the night just a little more perfect. Look at this...<br />
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Right? The setting was gorgeous! By the time we got to the Gardens, it was getting dusk. The ladies at the front desk were slightly confused as to why we were just arriving there when the sunlight was quickly diminishing. But we went ahead and went in. I have always wanted to go to the Gardens, and still would love to go again when it is a little lighter and the flowers are in their prime, BUT it was still absolutely delightful. There were trees peppered with autumn golds and reds. There were cute little pathways and bridges over running streams. There were flowers hanging on to their beauty despite the colder weather setting in. It was wonderful! And the most wonderful part about it was walking hand in hand with Eric. We didn't have a care in the world. Actually, scratch that, I didn't have a care in the world. Eric was freaking out inside because he knew what was going down very shortly.<br />
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Eric was a pro at not seeming nervous however. Another reason I didn't see it coming was because he acted so natural and sweet to me, as he always is. So we were just walking on random paths when we saw these four white pillars on top of a little miniature hill. We decided that it might be a fun little adventure to walk up there, so we did. I can't adequately describe how cool it was, so I googled some pictures of the spot.<br />
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Once we got to the top, Eric gave me a hug and said that he had something for me. He reached his hand in his pocket and pulled out a plastic ring with a giant pink heart on it. Let me explain...<br />
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When I was in Kindergarten, the boy in my class who I dearly loved gave my best friend a plastic ring one day after school because he liked her. You can imagine how crushed a little 5-year old girl would have been when her young love ends up loving her best friend haha. So I had told this story to Eric back in the summer. Then when thoughts of marriage started to come up, Eric would always joke about just getting me a big ring from All-a-Dollar.<br />
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So, he had done just that! It was so cute and so fitting. I loved it! But he didn't really say anything when he gave me the ring. So after a second, I was kind of confused as to what was going on. I didn't know if this was his way of proposing and this was a temporary ring until the real one was ready, or if he was just giving me a thoughtful gift... I didn't know? That's when he said that he had something else for me. He reached in his pocket again and pulled out a little black box. Yep, my heart was FREAKING out by this point. Half of me was ecstatic, and the other half was so surprised/confused because inside that little black box was a sparkling diamond ring. Eric got down on his knee and asked me to marry him. After just a few seconds of being in somewhat of a stupor, I exclaimed YES and threw my arms around my fiance. (I still am slightly weirded out by saying that I have a fiance now haha.)<br />
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Eric picked out the ring all by himself. I gave him an idea of what I liked, and he did the rest. </div>
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He definitely nailed this one. :) </div>
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And the rest is history. It was complete bliss after that point. The night was truly magical. I always wanted to be proposed to in a quiet setting with just the two of us, and Eric did exactly that. I am thoroughly convinced that my life has some serious fairytale-like qualities to it, because this was just about as good as it gets. I was and am SO incredibly happy!<br />
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So <b>December 27th</b> is the big day. A wedding right after Christmas? Yep. We are doing it. Our moms had slight panic attacks when we told them, but they are all on board now haha. We are getting married in the Salt Lake Temple and having a reception in Orem that night. We'll be honeymooning in a mystery place, because Eric is keeping that one under wraps from me haha. Then on January 4th we will have a reception in Logan. <br />
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I couldn't be more excited for the future. I have had so many friends get married and I have been absolutely thrilled for them. Now it is my turn. It is still kind of a dream that I get to be the beautiful bride this time. I get to experience the happiness that true love and a temple sealing bring to life. I have dreamed of going to the temple my whole life, and now, in just under two months, I will be there. I can't wait. And I am so happy that Eric gets to be a permanent part of my life. Who would have ever thought that I would be marrying my Pickleville sidekick? The other day, I stumbled across this picture. It is the first picture that Eric and I ever took together. It is up at PVP and we were trying to look like old folks rocking back and forth on a love seat. We are looking very attractive. ;)<br />
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Oh how far we have come since this day back in the early summer. I love every little thing about this boy. He is the definition of wonderful. We often comment on how well we compliment each other and what a great little team we make. And that is what marriage is all about. Working together and supporting each other in everything. Always.<br />
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I am so excited to be starting a new life and a new family with Eric. One that will continue on forever and ever. I am thankful to have the knowledge of eternal life and the opportunity to be a member of Christ's true church so that I can have direct access to those blessings received only in temple. I love to see the temple; I'm <i>finally</i> going there someday <i>soon</i>!<br />
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Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-89356685551630374562012-10-10T20:58:00.003-06:002012-10-10T22:02:42.978-06:00Halfway There.I have been itching to blog. This once a month dealio, if even that, is just not sitting well with me. But, when busy life calls, this blogging hobby of mine tends to be one of the first things brushed aside. On a positive note however, I am finding a little time tonight to write my thoughts, feelings, and recent happenings down. Finally! So I am grateful for nights like this that are lackadaisical and carefree. That is a rare occurrence these days.<br />
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Today marked my halfway point for student teaching. I am halfway there. Graduation is just around the corner. Crazy, right? The past seven weeks I have spent day in and day out of the greatest 1st grade class at Orem Elementary School. Let me tell you what, student teaching is not what I thought it would be. It is much harder and much better! What I anticipated was far less colorful (both in a difficult and rewarding sense) than the reality of it. I have learned so much though! So so much. I feel a lot more prepared to have my own classroom in the near future, and much more prepared for the next seven weeks in a 6th grade class. I am slightly scared for this one. But, I am so humbled at the chance I have to improve my teaching skills and strategies daily and most importantly, to influence the lives of young kids. There are few things in this life more rewarding than seeing a child light up when they understand something you taught them. It is extremely validating. I have had some very difficult days these past few weeks. Some days I have wanted to just quit. But, for every hard day there three times more good days. Then, final days in the classroom, like mine today, make you never ever want to leave.<br />
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So get this... today was my last day in the 1st grade, so this afternoon, my cooperating teacher asked me to go to the work room to grab her some more dry erase markers. Super random, but I was happy to help her out. When I came back to the class, I opened the door and was delightfully surprised by a loud choir of children chanting "We love you, Miss Bagley!" They were all standing up by the door in a group holding a poster and a gift. I almost shed tears. It was SO cute! Then I was almost stampeded by 25 first graders pushing their way through to give me a hug. Talk about confidence booster. Sheesh, all you have to do is spend 5 minutes with these kiddo's and they love you. So after about 35 days with them, there are some real attachments...on both ends. Here are some pictures of the cuties.<br />
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<span style="font-size: small;">The sweet gift I got from the class.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Mrs. Giles and Miss Bagley's 1st grade class</span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">What 1st graders do best... pulling our silly faces.</span></div>
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There have been so many wonderful things happening in my life over the past few months that I have been down in Provo. There are some days that I miss Logan...specifically my family and friends. But it has been a fun change being down here. Dear friends from Logan, Provo isn't half as bad as everyone up there says it is. I really like it! :) Of course, my loyalties will always and forever lie with Utah State. Too bad we couldn't quite pull a W off at last week's game against BYU. But I am so grateful for the opportunities that have been placed in my life and the experiences I have been having. Here is a brief update of what's been going on lately via a little picture blogging.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe5j-6aGrUv2tepbWo3vkwOzayQERiqfm5m7Q6ikCi5s7L7bQVaNmeGScHt7ozaySppWIl-kDnQkUC9twXfkXZnbunmAnxQgl33Hmp8RTfABTce9LEliAsH-E-XrPceypQMJgUKnnHDELr/s1600/Wicked+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe5j-6aGrUv2tepbWo3vkwOzayQERiqfm5m7Q6ikCi5s7L7bQVaNmeGScHt7ozaySppWIl-kDnQkUC9twXfkXZnbunmAnxQgl33Hmp8RTfABTce9LEliAsH-E-XrPceypQMJgUKnnHDELr/s320/Wicked+1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Eric surprised me for my birthday! I wasn't able to go to Wicked earlier this summer with the tickets I got for Christmas. So this cutie found some on a night we could go, and surprised me. We made a whole day out of it. Best boyfriend ever!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibV6_lp2Ic04x9Clyo509IKYS3QBAODyQBxDlETEpxi81uB1tt8kg_1-PFWRxa0fYZE2DwFqTTnJoS1ef8wwvTbMP7D3dqA0wsIZTrUIdFefoLvrv19qg98OBEcUl-UuLTZNO17QC6zTQi/s1600/Wicked+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibV6_lp2Ic04x9Clyo509IKYS3QBAODyQBxDlETEpxi81uB1tt8kg_1-PFWRxa0fYZE2DwFqTTnJoS1ef8wwvTbMP7D3dqA0wsIZTrUIdFefoLvrv19qg98OBEcUl-UuLTZNO17QC6zTQi/s320/Wicked+2.jpg" width="252" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Inside the theatre. Don't worry, not only did he surprise me with tickets, but they were FRONT ROW tickets of the mezzanine. Aka: Defying Gravity happened directly in front of our faces. Right?! Best seats in the house, hands down.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Moving down to Provo. Adios Logan! (Also, adios long hair. I chopped it! 7 inches, baby.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Harvesting the fall crops with my pops. All those times I complained about weeding and watering the garden when I was younger have now endeared me to gardening. What an accomplishing feeling to grow such beautiful produce.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Megan Bagley and Megan Sackett. Eric seriously has the neatest sister in the world. Glad we can share a name :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Family Lagoon day!</span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Jared and I rode the Sky Coaster. Other than the fact that we both screamed like girls, it was awesome. He is the cutest boy!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">A Sunday evening with the boy I love.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Just enjoying a BYU game from the box. No biggie. :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Sardine Canyon in the fall. Enough said. Wow!</span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">My dear friend Blair's wedding shower.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Enjoying some quality time with friends and family in Logan. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Tessa, me, Brynnly and Matt. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">A little Monday night FHE with the "A-Team." Alan and Amy = best parents/cutest family.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">USU vs. BYU game</span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">A Sackett girl tradition: bowling and dinner while the boys are at Priesthood session.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">General Conference Sunday. We went on a little walk up Provo Canyon to see some gorgeous waterfalls. I love this time of year!</span> </div>
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I have so much to be thankful for right now. After hearing the words from General Conference last weekend, my soul is rejuvenated, and I am anxious and willing to serve and progress to be more like my Savior. He has blessed me so immensely and it is often easy to overlook those blessings in the hustle and bustle of every day life. I hope to be more humble and grateful each and every day. The beautiful thing about being "halfway there" is that room for progression and change is still ahead, in all aspects of life. Progression in my teaching and in my personal goals. And most importantly, in my lifelong journey to become a better disciple of Christ.Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-11186655589067593822012-08-28T12:30:00.000-06:002012-10-10T19:16:48.223-06:00I love to see the temple... plus a little more.Where to even start tonight? This summer has been so incredibly incredible. Yes, I just used the same adjective two times in a row. That's how awesome it has been! When I reflect on the experiences that I have had the past three months, I am overcome with this feeling of gratitude. Gratitude for the people who have blessed my life. Gratitude for the work opportunities I have been given. Gratitude for the beauty of this earth. Gratitude for the spirit I have felt. I truly have changed for the better...not drastically, but subtly. Here are a few of the final summer memories that I have had recently...<br />
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<i>I love to see the temple.</i></div>
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<i>I'm going there someday.</i></div>
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<i>To feel the holy spirit.</i></div>
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<i>To listen and to pray.</i></div>
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For as long as I can remember, I have dreamed of one day going to the
temple. I can't think of a more perfect and beautiful place to go than
to the house of the Lord. This summer, I have been thinking about the
temple so much. Why? a) Because every time I come back to Logan, I see
the stunning temple almost smiling at me. b) I love to do baptisms there
when I have a free moment. c) Basically all of my friends either are
married or are getting married in the temple. Yay! d) The Brigham City
Temple is currently having an open house before its dedication. e) I
have been attending temple prep. Let me explain that one. Eric was a
teacher for the temple prep class in our ward this summer. I had to
support, right? So the following photos are of a few of my experiences
at the temple the past month.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLgQDIH-SJFw8f47EP2m-TU-2vSWrGfehAsCXvLmoFdHnbA0I703Kpj2XrKiqJ2_Rr-eJIQGpbJSRMxjSecjHbUeVYwZ8pmWv6pCZ9KIREpJq4N3mHSCwSzFUI31x5t1YlJ2Q5V1kUtzOW/s1600/IMG_0301.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLgQDIH-SJFw8f47EP2m-TU-2vSWrGfehAsCXvLmoFdHnbA0I703Kpj2XrKiqJ2_Rr-eJIQGpbJSRMxjSecjHbUeVYwZ8pmWv6pCZ9KIREpJq4N3mHSCwSzFUI31x5t1YlJ2Q5V1kUtzOW/s320/IMG_0301.JPG" width="319" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Doing baptisms for the dead at the Logan temple.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVMG7tMFVlr7T-2Ab3mjnVoXUeSBqyD10rbgLJ9MVELk_2qcttwkSky55WaLlSVgJf1Ljr8hvEzeujHOYGTCQW6C9t5e-5Zkwbm9pygt3thq9u0UH2yp3jGfu6QlrrC7Nr09yHm9F0vk52/s1600/Matching+Cuties.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVMG7tMFVlr7T-2Ab3mjnVoXUeSBqyD10rbgLJ9MVELk_2qcttwkSky55WaLlSVgJf1Ljr8hvEzeujHOYGTCQW6C9t5e-5Zkwbm9pygt3thq9u0UH2yp3jGfu6QlrrC7Nr09yHm9F0vk52/s320/Matching+Cuties.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Matching....and we didn't intentionally plan that. We must think alike or something? :) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifgs4fuKCandKyP_y6j37Tc59ZmQOQbjEQoN-iAF2Zl6OWoPBN3uSUQvyqDXxUyoRh_5ITGK4fUysOVE1_RC7DyHjsrEe7kuN13IaFnApSduSXJQnUMAAyz3iIhAcOFS9zxwejl0FB9q_H/s1600/Lars+Wedding+1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifgs4fuKCandKyP_y6j37Tc59ZmQOQbjEQoN-iAF2Zl6OWoPBN3uSUQvyqDXxUyoRh_5ITGK4fUysOVE1_RC7DyHjsrEe7kuN13IaFnApSduSXJQnUMAAyz3iIhAcOFS9zxwejl0FB9q_H/s320/Lars+Wedding+1.jpg" width="237" /></a></div>
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Chelsea, me, and Rylee waiting for Lars to come out of the temple. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh77i335lBYq5O88xVokrpx9fyDQoOePpUVv0CHxdeG_UtC8MrMxkAT93u5uJuQ-oShAYfJN3ltyO6LqmHxhxpsRLY-n6MgTcR-EZXj1YwMJApiqsjCkHyUeJTgHmb8AiM8XwvMi-Ozrwi5/s1600/Lars+Wedding+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh77i335lBYq5O88xVokrpx9fyDQoOePpUVv0CHxdeG_UtC8MrMxkAT93u5uJuQ-oShAYfJN3ltyO6LqmHxhxpsRLY-n6MgTcR-EZXj1YwMJApiqsjCkHyUeJTgHmb8AiM8XwvMi-Ozrwi5/s320/Lars+Wedding+2.jpg" width="215" /></a></div>
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Lars and Reggie. What cuties!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivXtfPyENG4LYguLt2z33mqYG0l_lo7emjpYf_PFsTBrwRMPEobz4Rk9FhOkXlLZ6h-dlRIj8SnK4445dZpcVTHU1n8MfYFu3OmbyRUuEFHLarL3EqxvCgfhKG_xUS6-uDfpjlw-bk46GI/s1600/Lars+Wedding+3.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivXtfPyENG4LYguLt2z33mqYG0l_lo7emjpYf_PFsTBrwRMPEobz4Rk9FhOkXlLZ6h-dlRIj8SnK4445dZpcVTHU1n8MfYFu3OmbyRUuEFHLarL3EqxvCgfhKG_xUS6-uDfpjlw-bk46GI/s320/Lars+Wedding+3.jpg" width="216" /></a></div>
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One gorgeous bride. I am so grateful for Lars's example. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZN14fMwyKvHCyfab6YzbrnrT-U6LUKXspKPR7AGzdlvzsIrnuEoa0n-7gxXlZ72_03kdRDaJinM_Rt_L6I_EMLwO-81K35RyACA6DwjWZDm_2MoBml8KKy56Yjv_FG72sOG5Xp90zJ0HO/s1600/Lars+Wedding+4.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZN14fMwyKvHCyfab6YzbrnrT-U6LUKXspKPR7AGzdlvzsIrnuEoa0n-7gxXlZ72_03kdRDaJinM_Rt_L6I_EMLwO-81K35RyACA6DwjWZDm_2MoBml8KKy56Yjv_FG72sOG5Xp90zJ0HO/s320/Lars+Wedding+4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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My old roomies.</div>
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The Brigham City Temple open house.</div>
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Crazies? Maybe a little bit. :)</div>
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Friends are awesome. YAY! YAY! </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_y5wQqGEiVEwShAdJKO8b4f3Vj-F4EM85ED0TewNKg_e2IWLS2yREC1kAgZDkGT6xWLETzOqMSGJfnIckAJIclT1Yeepje5nlUxGLcAHFaPixDIU9h0mo_reCdBbDWXA5DpYS6jZnGdiR/s1600/Ideal+Girls.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_y5wQqGEiVEwShAdJKO8b4f3Vj-F4EM85ED0TewNKg_e2IWLS2yREC1kAgZDkGT6xWLETzOqMSGJfnIckAJIclT1Yeepje5nlUxGLcAHFaPixDIU9h0mo_reCdBbDWXA5DpYS6jZnGdiR/s320/Ideal+Girls.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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A little lunch outing with my girls at Ideal Beach.</div>
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Some of my dearest, dearest friends.</div>
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We FINALLY got to the lake. This is what summer is all about.</div>
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Boating with this babe.</div>
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Sarah is such a sweetheart. </div>
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Working the box office! I love these girls.</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: large;">Now for the best part... </span></i></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"></span><br /></div>
<br />
Well, summer is officially over. As of 9:00 am tomorrow, I will be back in school and rockin' and rollin' for another semester. However, this semester will be full of teaching, teaching and more teaching. Not only is summer officially over for me, so is taking regular "college-kid" classes. I will be doing my student teaching this semester at Orem Elementary School and then come December time, I will be DONE-ZO with college. Crazy, right? I still can't really believe it. It feels like just yesterday that I was packing my bag with fresh new notebooks and pencils and most importantly, a laminated copy of Utah State's campus so that I would not get lost finding my classes. Ah, to be a young freshman again. I am so grateful for the past three years of college. I have learned so much and had THE best experience. Utah State will forever and ever hold a special spot in my heart. I love being an Aggie!<br />
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But, as incredible as USU has been, it can't last forever. So with that, I am heading down south tomorrow afternoon to make my humble abode in Provo. No, I am not transferring to BYU. But yes, I am moving away from Logan. Utah State students can do their student teaching all over the state, and after lots of thinking, getting advice from family and friends, and so many prayers, I felt like moving away was the right thing to do. So I'll be living with five of the cutest girls in the world...including my best friend Whit. Finally, after years and years of talking about it, we will be roomies! There is also this really cute boy that will be down there too. That is one more bonus that I didn't foresee when I originally planned on moving down. Three cheers for good luck! :) So life is drastically changing tomorrow. But I am ready for it. Life, hit me with your best shot. I can't wait!Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-5019614079667781982012-07-31T13:20:00.001-06:002012-07-31T13:31:06.666-06:00The Sweetest SummertimeThere are a few things that bring me immense joy in life. These include, but are not limited to... watermelon, autumn leaves and colors, Christmas music, brownies and ice cream, babies, playing the piano, weddings, and blogging. I feel like a sugar addict who has gone on a no-sugar diet the last three months because I have not really had a chance to blog! Okay, that might be a little dramatic, but it is so great to spend time absorbed in one of my favorite hobbies. So here I am, sitting at my computer, eating some cherries, listening to a little Michael Buble and I am in absolute bliss.<br />
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Summertime is here and on it's way out. And it has been oh so sweet! Times just flies when you are having fun. And fun is exactly what I have been having this summer of 2012. My plans changed a lot when T. J. Davis called me in the spring and asked me to be a part of the Pickleville magic again this summer. I accepted the offer and after an intense three weeks of rehearsals in May, I moved up to Bear Lake. Words can't even begin to adequately describe what an incredible experience this has been. The best decision I could have ever made was to do Pickleville for one more summer. The whole experience...the work, the people, the performing...everything has been a dream come true. I often find myself asking how in the world I am so fortunate to be here. The Lord has blessed me so much! I am truly humbled and grateful for the blessings He bestows upon me.<br />
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So, let me expound a little on my super-awesome, neat, fun, incredible,
magical, dreamy summer. First things first: Pickleville. That is the
whole reason that I am even up in Garden City, right? I am performing in
<i>The Hanging of El Bandito</i> as Billy Jean Fletcher. My very first
summer doing PVP, back when I first graduated from high school, I
debuted this role. It has been such a blast getting to play the part
again, but in a new and fresh way. The Juanito Bandito craze is in full
swing and we perform all of the time. Sooo many shows each week, but
what a fun job! I get paid to be an evil and psycho sidekick to Bandito.
Boom baby! Haha, no but really, it is such an uplifting and wholesome
environment and a positive experience. On the nights of the other show,
Forever Plaid, I work in the box office at Pickleville taking
reservations, making some delicious popcorn, and helping out backstage
here and there. It has been fun to see that angle of how the theater
runs. I work with some of the funnest girls and thoroughly enjoy every
night that I am at PVP. <br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The Hanging of El Bandito </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A few of the cast members seating the crowd. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">With my dearest friends, Chelsea, Rylee and Whitney, on opening night.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Billy Jean Fletcher</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Forever Plaid </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Box Office workers. We have a little too much fun!</span></div>
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P.S. Just to put a little plug in for the shows. They are awesome! Might I highly suggest coming to either one? I promise it will be one of the greatest experiences. :)</div>
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<a href="http://www.picklevilleplayhouse.com/">www.picklevilleplayhouse.com</a></div>
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Next, I have the coolest day job. I work at Ideal Beach Resort which is exactly what it is named...ideal. It is the ideal location, the ideal work, the ideal people. Honestly. I work with some awesome co-workers and my boss is a stud. He is so kind and good to his employees. He runs a tight ship and I am so impressed with his managing skills. Anyway, I work in the resort's convenience store, as well as at the mini golf course and the snow shack. Some of the world's most darling families come and stay at this resort. Seriously, I have seen more adorable children and couples this summer than I think I have in my life. It is making me so excited to one day have a family of my own. Needles to say, I am the luckiest girl to have such awesome jobs. I needed and wanted to work hard this summer to make money for the fall. Provo is going to be slightly more pricey than Logan, I'm afraid. And that is exactly what I have been doing. I am working hard but am having an incredible time doing it.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">With one of my co-workers, Danielle.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Ideal Beach Resort. Is that not the prettiest view to look at every day?</span></div>
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As much as I love the work I have been doing this summer, I think that the reason I will always look back on this time of life with the fondest of memories is because of the people I associate with. Every single day I realize what awesome people I spend time with and live around. People who are striving to do good and to be good always. People who want to align their lives with the Lord's will. People who are constant examples of love and service. I am learning a lot about friendship, especially because my family is not close by. I have learned to rely a lot on my friends for love and support since my family isn't near. Not only are these friends good and wholesome people, but they are so much fun! Ah, I laugh so hard with them. We play games and are silly and have the greatest times. Some of my favorite moments of this summer are the nights that we have Family Home Evening. We will have a lesson and an activity of sorts. We also regularly have Sunday dinners or gather around the piano and sing. This little Pickleville family of mine is always giving little gifts or dropping little notes of love and appreciation. It is so beautiful. I am truly grateful for each and every one of my friends...those who are with me this summer and those who I don't see as often. I have been so fortunate in my life to have great friends. I hope to continue to be a better friend to others and strive to be more selfless. I want to be the kind of friend that the Lord would be.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Jessica Jenkins. Girls don't come much more pure and incredible than this one.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A little summer afternoon hike. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Singing around the piano.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"> Watching Jessica sing at a fireside in Evanston, WY.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">An FHE activity down at the lake. Skipping rocks, baby! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Sweet Sydnie. One of the loveliest girls I know.</span></div>
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Now for the best part of my summer! I know that there is no possible way to really describe this huge part of my life. Why? Because he, yes <b>he</b>, is just too great for words! But I will do my very best. Back in January, I met this boy named Eric Sackett when I was visiting Whit in Provo. We went over to a girl Becca's house to watch a movie and he was there...flirting with Whitney, of course :) haha. Anyway, I re-met him again this past May when we started rehearsals for Bandito. Eric and I are the two nutso sidekicks, so not only did I get to know him, I was with him all the time...on stage and off. We would find every excuse we could to spend a little more time with each other, without it looking too obvious. Basically, since then, we have become best friends, spend as much time together as possible, and now I am crazy about this boy. He is the greatest thing that has happened to me. I was not expecting to meet anyone right now or feel this way, but it is so wonderful. What Eric and I have going is really special. I wish that I could just put an interactive Eric on my blog so that everyone could meet him and know how awesome he is.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Our first official date</span>.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Being crazy sidekicks. What we do almost every night.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Billy and Happy.</span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Having the perfect summer picnic.</span></div>
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We have had some seriously magical moments this summer. Picnics, dancing, walks, sunsets, star gazing, temple trips, family visits, and even simple conversations. Sometimes, actually all of the time, I wonder if I am living in reality because of how perfect our moments together are. But it is totally real life. Fairy tales do happen! :) haha. Eric is so great...not because he is perfect, but because he strives for perfection every day. He is constantly trying to be better and he makes me want to be a better person. He is valiant and righteous. He is loving and tender and constantly thinking of others. He is hilarious. Hil-ar-i-ous. He is sarcastic, yet he is so sensitive. He is talented beyond measure. He is adventurous and athletic. He is a child at heart and loves children so much. He honors his priesthood and desires to be a man of God. Too good to be true? Oh, you bet! But for some reason, I got lucky...he found interest in me and we are having the best times together. Not to mention, he will be down in Provo going to school in the fall. Coincidence? Maybe. Convenient? Absolutely! :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZXjc2dD6priX6oYkHWkUu3Aj7cy14WH8hxIRaNL8RKt8Ly2JRZ-xH4A1Uw13-A5VA7sBru7IdLauqRZ5L_zPIbQDZvtXl4SonXOXuHGL_vkRyo76n3JA3Y6Mf2c7Awz-w-9YqBFqGJMq/s1600/Minnetonka+Caves+with+Eric.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijZXjc2dD6priX6oYkHWkUu3Aj7cy14WH8hxIRaNL8RKt8Ly2JRZ-xH4A1Uw13-A5VA7sBru7IdLauqRZ5L_zPIbQDZvtXl4SonXOXuHGL_vkRyo76n3JA3Y6Mf2c7Awz-w-9YqBFqGJMq/s320/Minnetonka+Caves+with+Eric.jpg" width="320" /></a> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hiking with this cutie.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A day at Ideal Beach with my family. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">A delightful Sunday afternoon.</span> </span> </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">This boy has my heart.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;">This summer has been one of the best summers of my life. It is amazing to me how the Lord has a plan for us all which is often times not what we were planning for ourselves. In every way, this summer is completely different than I had originally anticipated a few months ago. I think the one and only downside is that I have to give up my tickets to see Wicked at the Capitol Theater. That sounds super lame, but I don't think anyone quite understands how badly I want to see that show. That is all I wanted for Christmas, and was so lucky to get tickets! But at Christmas time I had no intention of being in Bear Lake. So tonight my mom and dad are going to go see the show. If I can't go, I wouldn't want anyone else to use those tickets. I am sooo excited for them! Ah, it gives me chills just thinking about being there... And in reality, I think that is quite the minor sacrifice for the blessings I am receiving by being here this summer. Most importantly, my relationship with the Savior has deepened this summer. I love Him and want so badly to do what is right and be a virtuous daughter of God. I am grateful for this time to ponder and meditate more deeply and to have the Spirit guiding me. This is truly the sweetest summertime I could have ever asked for.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span> </span> </div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">A beautiful summer sunset.</span> </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-sip3DBFnI07uTWZDOjdATS0vzBNWTlWmxtkSNn00Qe63wyhIsKtFO63h4nkMG_YR04QhydXJSQ5zJP5Hnz3DG-8Zi546XyKs2AjqL6p-gL1Hey2QKG9nDVmIASQ4xwSl9BtoeI2WkaxA/s1600/IMG_0288.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaSPJSsVX79c74awTat1R7bHzZ136zJYRKCClxgnPFCijY9hIBsDj4rH10ko6H0kgxqrqmwJKCF9Pq8DVs6sD75aJZZzMzetzpj8W5sfoscU0X1UgNw5XgzZcQLnjRQLkHCOHsmg4d5XuI/s1600/IMG_0285.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-33483885993860767882012-05-21T12:54:00.000-06:002012-05-21T12:56:21.483-06:00Wedding Bells are a Ringin'First comes loves. Then comes marriage. Or so they say... This summer is no doubt the summer of weddings! I think that every summer is, but now that I am in the prime age for marriage, I swear that a million people my age are tying the knot within the next 4 months. Yay! One of these couples includes my big brother Matt. Two days ago, he sealed the deal with his cutie fiance (now wife) Brynnly Pabst.<br />
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Let's just say their story is kind of an interesting one. They have been friends for almost two years, but were not officially dating. If Brynnly would have had it her way though, they would have been married last summer haha. But Matt was a very slow mover. They met through a business leadership program up at Utah State and realized how much they had in common. They were in a lot of the same classes and even the same ward. Who knew that Brynnly's family lived up the street from my parents? I remember Brynnly from high school...she was a year younger than me. I didn't know her well, but I knew of her and thought that she was a cute girl.<br />
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Anyway, after being best friends for what seemed like forever and traveling to South America together on a study abroad, they kind of started to officially date. Then they weren't. But still acted like they were. But were dating other people. But still always wanted to be together. Do you see why their story is an interesting one? Haha. Finally, Matt got his act together and started pursuing Brynnly with the idea of marriage. And I swear after he made that decision, they were engaged and married in the blink of an eye.<br />
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And boy is everyone thrilled about it! They are perfect for each other in every way. I love Brynnly, although it took me a minute. Not because she isn't the coolest girl ever, but because I think I was a little jealous of her taking my brother away. Weird, I know. It's not like I was dating my big brother haha. But it was the first girl that my brother ever really dated seriously, so it was a slight adjustment for me at first. Brynnly is awesome though. Matt couldn't have gotten a neater girl. And I couldn't have gotten a cuter sister! Seriously, we all love Brynnly and are so happy she is a part of our family now. Brynnly Bagley...that is a nice ring to it, don't you think? :)<br />
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So here is a little overview of their big day through pictures. I won't commentate for each one because I think the pics are pretty self-explanatory. The day was perfect in every possible way. Both Matt and Brynnly were glowing the whole day. The temple ceremony was beautiful (or so I heard), pictures turned out great, the luncheon was yuuuuumy!, and the reception was simple and elegant.<br />
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Hopefully you will enjoy their special day, just like we did, by looking at these little beauties.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1LM3_GeyASdsKpAM0nvpCQVohguIExLkpOPQrQDGWPMXTK4Rarr1M7RyZ7KJyhlseQcy_DdrVP5kOcE8D5TfuVoYvfVlXokpm57PJRcCudrUijKYol5Xp7324LugTVqHUGWXaA9-yqfU8/s1600/M&B+Wedding+10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1LM3_GeyASdsKpAM0nvpCQVohguIExLkpOPQrQDGWPMXTK4Rarr1M7RyZ7KJyhlseQcy_DdrVP5kOcE8D5TfuVoYvfVlXokpm57PJRcCudrUijKYol5Xp7324LugTVqHUGWXaA9-yqfU8/s320/M&B+Wedding+10.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCdG6a-vCsYVPq5sOOhgYaP8XlywDmUN88gzoNHk4IU2Niepsa_lCwMh-DfNrERxgTjausYVI9KqDKftgyU92q9RUdzf58LULphdzDE23LFkowGh6xePMglzadEG84l_RkKNZeiFj2M8tP/s1600/M&B+Wedding+11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCdG6a-vCsYVPq5sOOhgYaP8XlywDmUN88gzoNHk4IU2Niepsa_lCwMh-DfNrERxgTjausYVI9KqDKftgyU92q9RUdzf58LULphdzDE23LFkowGh6xePMglzadEG84l_RkKNZeiFj2M8tP/s320/M&B+Wedding+11.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPjVntozDP4qNP4TIZi914ibvDmWdoptmokzy3skEeh9vVyzDe7VA7iw-hZA4xq47vt7aqAx4FDTiC4peJtNZ0CW7XLaknIo1gbsuHSVAbFDe2wWj3s_-VVsi80BZMvnLhsNg4mVTggwal/s1600/M&B+Wedding+12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPjVntozDP4qNP4TIZi914ibvDmWdoptmokzy3skEeh9vVyzDe7VA7iw-hZA4xq47vt7aqAx4FDTiC4peJtNZ0CW7XLaknIo1gbsuHSVAbFDe2wWj3s_-VVsi80BZMvnLhsNg4mVTggwal/s320/M&B+Wedding+12.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Well there you have it, Matt and Brynnly's dream wedding happened. I honestly don't think that Brynnly could have imagined her big day
going any better. Let's hope that one day when I get married, mine will
go so perfectly. But that's not going to happen for a bit...I've got to
find me a husband first. :) So the two little love birds are now honeymoonin' down in San Diego. Then they will be living in Salt Lake for the summer for Matt to complete an internship with Goldman Sachs. In the fall, they will be back in Logan finishing school. All three of us will graduate in December. Three cheers for growing up!<br />
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Weddings are so wonderful. I am so happy and excited for all of my friends that have or are getting hitched this summer. Seeing all these great examples in my life validate my strong opinion even more that I want to get married and sealed in the temple one day. Hmmm, one day... :)<br />
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Ooh, last little thought. So there was some huge hype going on
yesterday about the super-cool, incredible, amazing, one-of-a-kind
eclipse. Alright, so it wasn't really that awesome for me because I
didn't know how to look for it. I took one peek at the sun and my eyes
were temporarily blinded. Not a smart move. About all I have to show for my eclipse-viewing efforts is a nice picture. I enjoyed all of the
pictures though slapped up on Facebook of the shadows from the eclipse. I
feel like I saw the eclipse through that. And the sun was surely bright
and gorgeous last night. Three cheers for nature and the awesomeness of
the universe! I am so looking forward to a summer full of <i>beautiful</i> sunsets and <i>beautiful</i> weddings. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpApD1W50Ii8JqLgMXVgkyyF5rbAvfPJqQfV7jKl3G8OaNNaLHUq_sIwekn6jPWONqX1Uyyj-ejhKWhMNSDUKGuvny_rz0uM-qSdA62-YaoB5M4d2gc84kVfrr9m7rOqD7NdlmjGYiqVUl/s1600/Eclipse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpApD1W50Ii8JqLgMXVgkyyF5rbAvfPJqQfV7jKl3G8OaNNaLHUq_sIwekn6jPWONqX1Uyyj-ejhKWhMNSDUKGuvny_rz0uM-qSdA62-YaoB5M4d2gc84kVfrr9m7rOqD7NdlmjGYiqVUl/s320/Eclipse.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-87227920285736988852012-05-13T23:29:00.004-06:002012-05-13T23:30:53.395-06:00My Mom's Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Every year when Mother's Day rolls around, I remember how wonderful and amazing my dear mom is. In fact, last year I went to town on how great my mom is. Don't remember? <a href="http://meganbagley.blogspot.com/2011/05/happy-mothers-day.html">Here you go.</a><br />
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This year the holiday was all about my mom. It was her day and we let her do whatever she wanted. No cooking, no cleaning, nada. She even sat down and played the piano. It was wonderful.<br />
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My mom is truly the best! I know that everyone says that about their moms, and I think everyone has the right to brag about their mom being the best. The best for them, at least.<br />
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Since I am friends with the LDS Missionaries on Facebook (You should become their friend if you are not. They post the best quotes and thoughts every day!), I got to see this cute little clip from lds.org. They also attached these quotes from our beloved prophets about mothers:<br />
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<i>"You women, be kind and gracious and generous. Strengthen your children with your faith and your testimony. Lift them up. Help them to walk through the troubled ways of the world as they grow in this very difficult age. Support, sustain, uphold, and bless your husbands with your love and your encouragement; and the Lord will bless you." </i>-Gordon B. Hinckley<br />
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<i>"Men, take care not to make women weep, for God counts their tears."</i> -Thomas S. Monson<br />
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<i>"May each of us remember this truth: one cannot forget mother and remember God. One cannot remember mother and forget God. Why? Because these two sacred persons, God and mother, partners in creation, in love, in sacrifice, in service, are as one."</i> -LDS Missionaries<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/UUEKe76Zb6s?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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A Mother's Eyes sung by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir</div>
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My mom is a great example of strengthening her children through her testimony and example. She is such a constant light in my life. I can look to her daily and her virtue shines through. I am so grateful for my mom and all of her daily selfless service. I have no doubt that the Lord knew I would be the best fit for my mom, and she for me. My mom is my best friend and has taught me more than anyone in this world. Love you mom!<br />
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<br />Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-71259488656625745912012-05-11T16:25:00.000-06:002012-05-11T16:27:15.976-06:00Winds of ChangeI am back. Believe it or not, I am back to blogging after a semester of craziness. Honestly, the past few months have been the busiest and most strenuous of my life up to this point. They have been some of the most rewarding, but have definitely pushed me to my limits.<br />
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Needless to say, I have missed this hobby of mine. There is something about spilling my mind and heart out through this computer screen that is real relaxing. Call it crazy...because it kind of is...but blogging is almost as great to me as eating some chocolate cake or some other glutenous activity.<br />
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And boy oh boy, SO much has happened in the past 4 months. My life is almost a completely different life...or at least is on its way to being there. In the words of Julie Andrews, let's start at the very beginning, a very good place to start" as I catch up on my whirl-wind life and some exciting changes that are blowing my way!<br />
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First things first. I got my wisdom teeth out on Tuesday. I have heard story after story, both horrifying and calming, about what it is like to get your wisdom teeth pulled. But everyone's experiences aside, mine hasn't been too terrible. My right cheek is still really swollen, I am still on pain meds, and I basically sleep all day. I am on Day 4 now and am hoping that some energy and normality will return to my life. I feel completely lazy and slightly loopy. But, it is kind of nice to have a serious break from real life. I just hope this break wraps up soon. These cheeks of mine can't stand to get any bigger.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGuZlULDIsfAU0aPacVF93CrVuHre_5MmY2w5lLkbcxSfKJqHnqV5LcWPoGVSSbyJetwKQKLOSTVfMApQpjhosFGcd1sAybZlAHkZKdRdjjE_T_J6DIJ_0GGzwDruNFtTR-P_7bR2yTgtZ/s1600/Wisdom+Teeth+labeled.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGuZlULDIsfAU0aPacVF93CrVuHre_5MmY2w5lLkbcxSfKJqHnqV5LcWPoGVSSbyJetwKQKLOSTVfMApQpjhosFGcd1sAybZlAHkZKdRdjjE_T_J6DIJ_0GGzwDruNFtTR-P_7bR2yTgtZ/s400/Wisdom+Teeth+labeled.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little collage of my wisdom teeth journey. Excuse the no make-up.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Next up, some great news! My big brother Matt is getting married. YAHOO!! Finally, the boy proposed to his year-long girlfriend back in March. The two little lovebirds are getting married one week from tomorrow. So you best believe that a whole blog-post will be devoted to their big day. Matt and Brynnly are perfect for each other. They are pretty much the same human being. So it's great that they are ending up together for eternity. I am excited to have my first official sister. She is the perfect one for the job! :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYk5Dbog3ite7wPmWiNDMuQ_1ZSaeB-UyX9sZG8HtwF270Ic7mB_qzrYwDu0vq-ZOoyyl8Au3dyaekxUcppKRFpXIvN_3RGFBkb2lyvMINXRz2ALYe8s1jxdtj3bFv2GQkdwIYA9Lb9q2D/s1600/Matt+and+Brynnly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYk5Dbog3ite7wPmWiNDMuQ_1ZSaeB-UyX9sZG8HtwF270Ic7mB_qzrYwDu0vq-ZOoyyl8Au3dyaekxUcppKRFpXIvN_3RGFBkb2lyvMINXRz2ALYe8s1jxdtj3bFv2GQkdwIYA9Lb9q2D/s320/Matt+and+Brynnly.jpg" width="227" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Matt and Brynnly</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Engaged!</td></tr>
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Next, my little brother Jared had a basketball tournament down in Las Vegas over his Spring Break this year. It was both Aaron and Jared's first time going to Vegas, and let's just say, I think it was a little eye-opening for them. We all realized how much we love little Logan, Utah after that trip. But it was fun to sight-see and watch some great ball games. Here are a few pictures of the weekend.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBocHrG6bEYkASEBJpSTIn9yfaeMv8q-uSogcJ91bj9ze1t5zWM47T35GAADZoSwIN2z2xtajTX1zxEMn8tIcofOg1Tlx9Zsqq2HKPj3CUeo7IPX2hCqX54U_06lfAnLBQjitSX_0-TqzJ/s1600/Bellagio+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBocHrG6bEYkASEBJpSTIn9yfaeMv8q-uSogcJ91bj9ze1t5zWM47T35GAADZoSwIN2z2xtajTX1zxEMn8tIcofOg1Tlx9Zsqq2HKPj3CUeo7IPX2hCqX54U_06lfAnLBQjitSX_0-TqzJ/s320/Bellagio+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Watching the water show at the Bellagio.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb3i5k6mSJrQobgQtWHd_kc-ITQ0gQa_44Oszxmcx2Kw0NAkS6UTC7frcfh0sxXJ_-4jzImphWz_9giBwmlodUU-7G8MKNhNblOfiPR1QKt0Cm6ixrrrvmhdf48MdyyyqAW9-s-4FRSIHS/s1600/M&M+Store.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb3i5k6mSJrQobgQtWHd_kc-ITQ0gQa_44Oszxmcx2Kw0NAkS6UTC7frcfh0sxXJ_-4jzImphWz_9giBwmlodUU-7G8MKNhNblOfiPR1QKt0Cm6ixrrrvmhdf48MdyyyqAW9-s-4FRSIHS/s320/M&M+Store.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Visiting the M&M Store.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNxJdtoG8jtjkk0MAjr1aM9OsqjZfI-7uuO45UrA3WyA1OuYAUDeVQx2928yt4dkLWLTahakUCQQZJuLG3OGkD3qvhjthe6pPvZoJ_nK8iTHqQ5e2RlrxG1EXp1mtpzGEJmphWHNmvpzbh/s1600/Vegas+Tourney+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNxJdtoG8jtjkk0MAjr1aM9OsqjZfI-7uuO45UrA3WyA1OuYAUDeVQx2928yt4dkLWLTahakUCQQZJuLG3OGkD3qvhjthe6pPvZoJ_nK8iTHqQ5e2RlrxG1EXp1mtpzGEJmphWHNmvpzbh/s320/Vegas+Tourney+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jared in action.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOfwEPeCCNuRvZTodAvkfHJHunE-Lkl6KthNynTUtH_CovaK78wllHGwoWx0q0NCCSHfvRDmj7lZZIK0gpimySnKDzS9nogRv-B0LI25eL5r6KAI808huO6EnG6MPBKd5dQW8hhIK0iE6a/s1600/Vegas+Tourney+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOfwEPeCCNuRvZTodAvkfHJHunE-Lkl6KthNynTUtH_CovaK78wllHGwoWx0q0NCCSHfvRDmj7lZZIK0gpimySnKDzS9nogRv-B0LI25eL5r6KAI808huO6EnG6MPBKd5dQW8hhIK0iE6a/s320/Vegas+Tourney+4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Jared's team after their tourney.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_CTbs9IMipTxCb_qbDoFx-TuLmmQWSJCNesfra1SuFSbW53NgLDNdZ6OU0D01C9S3ysRq_YJgf875XTy3IRL4hGtZ1ASWtJNHqZUzhARoZCKtTqOByWDUzjQ-maExr3F5u2Sm_JEy-u76/s1600/Las+Vegas+Temple+2.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_CTbs9IMipTxCb_qbDoFx-TuLmmQWSJCNesfra1SuFSbW53NgLDNdZ6OU0D01C9S3ysRq_YJgf875XTy3IRL4hGtZ1ASWtJNHqZUzhARoZCKtTqOByWDUzjQ-maExr3F5u2Sm_JEy-u76/s320/Las+Vegas+Temple+2.jpg" width="229" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Las Vegas Temple. SO beautiful!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_CTbs9IMipTxCb_qbDoFx-TuLmmQWSJCNesfra1SuFSbW53NgLDNdZ6OU0D01C9S3ysRq_YJgf875XTy3IRL4hGtZ1ASWtJNHqZUzhARoZCKtTqOByWDUzjQ-maExr3F5u2Sm_JEy-u76/s1600/Las+Vegas+Temple+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_CTbs9IMipTxCb_qbDoFx-TuLmmQWSJCNesfra1SuFSbW53NgLDNdZ6OU0D01C9S3ysRq_YJgf875XTy3IRL4hGtZ1ASWtJNHqZUzhARoZCKtTqOByWDUzjQ-maExr3F5u2Sm_JEy-u76/s1600/Las+Vegas+Temple+2.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
Next, I can officially cross an item off of my bucket-list. I have lived in Cache Valley my whole life. Up until this past November or so, I had never been to Angie's Restaurant. "Where the Locals Eat"? Well, not this local I guess. But now I have. Well, another Cache Valley tradition is that of hiking the infamous Wind Caves. Never had I ever done that...until a few weeks ago. A group of friends from high school got together at night and scaled the mountain. It was so much fun! And so much harder than I was thinking. I would like to go there again in the daylight, but a little moonlit hike was a blast. Might I recommend it to any of you out there who have never done the hike. You are missing out!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGIpcf6JheYdFchskFklRlscUXHH0n9FgaNbLE6uIbaHPvgoyDLEqIVGoIgtMB2N4UUhJtWldN_StM_gztod0gRW-zETG3gSKmLkU0Torfdi-nIiA4RCaaof6NEMSMoftJZhPx7xjlw7S0/s1600/Windcaves+hike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGIpcf6JheYdFchskFklRlscUXHH0n9FgaNbLE6uIbaHPvgoyDLEqIVGoIgtMB2N4UUhJtWldN_StM_gztod0gRW-zETG3gSKmLkU0Torfdi-nIiA4RCaaof6NEMSMoftJZhPx7xjlw7S0/s320/Windcaves+hike.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our late night Wind Cave hike.</td></tr>
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<br />
Next on the list...good books. I think one of the hardest things for me to do is to put down a really really good book. I am always so anxious for the ending, but once I finally read it, I wish that I could read it again. I am just never ready to say that I have completed the book. But then I start reading a new one, although it is a new kind of exciting, it is just as exciting as the other. This is exactly where I am in my life right now. I am ending a really awesome book...the best one yet! I don't want to shut that back cover because I know it will really be over, but with shutting that cover, I am opening a the front cover to a new book. So here are a few of the really good chapters that I am having a hard time closing...<br />
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<i>Piano Teaching</i>. For the past 5 years, I have had to coolest job. I have taught piano to the greatest piano students in the whole wide world. Teaching piano has been the most rewarding job. Honestly, it hasn't even really felt like a job, but more of a hobby. Due to some changes, I won't be teaching piano anymore. So this past weekend, I had my final piano recital. It was so wonderful to have one last sha-bang, Cinco de Mayo style! The kids did awesome, the parents were perfect to work with, and I said <i>hasta la vista</i> to five of the best years of my life.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIIkxNyXjrdm-Lim9-qb3U94Pip-wzW2oOg2lEUaZVxph8VKM2ciNtTrx72cMVikltNf-qQBElg51jmX02j8rY7bCdPv0r1Nh7_zi6aIC9lCemprT_fxxuH5auHCrA8CybrMK7jkemFaVS/s1600/Piano+Recital+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIIkxNyXjrdm-Lim9-qb3U94Pip-wzW2oOg2lEUaZVxph8VKM2ciNtTrx72cMVikltNf-qQBElg51jmX02j8rY7bCdPv0r1Nh7_zi6aIC9lCemprT_fxxuH5auHCrA8CybrMK7jkemFaVS/s320/Piano+Recital+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All of my current students (just missing 2) after our final recital. What cuties!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrmlPB4xd0Y-homaqub8SHNee09HhZlBuBaoywwqVe2PYkOQQpTZ8gFjuFTUYSx7oKqxuUK4Pp01KqcdE0Fwaz73HYmhTmm_mKH4NMG6uAEV7yooUe5SskkYnvBdWlUCQsO_uSopIix98H/s1600/Piano+Recital+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrmlPB4xd0Y-homaqub8SHNee09HhZlBuBaoywwqVe2PYkOQQpTZ8gFjuFTUYSx7oKqxuUK4Pp01KqcdE0Fwaz73HYmhTmm_mKH4NMG6uAEV7yooUe5SskkYnvBdWlUCQsO_uSopIix98H/s320/Piano+Recital+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My little brothers and myself.</td></tr>
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<br />
<i>School</i>. So get this folks, I have one semester left until I graduate. Yep, let me say that again. ONE SEMESTER BABY! I am kind of still in shock at the reality of being done-zo in about 7 months. Where has my college career gone? But, I can feel myself getting more and more ready to actually be teaching rather than be in a teacher education program. This last semester was hard. Woosh, it was the hardest one I have had yet. But 19 credits later, I am alive and kickin'. I spent 9 weeks doing coursework, planning lessons and units, talking management techniques and teaching strategies, etc. And then I spent 6 weeks in a 2nd grade classroom. I actually was lucky enough to get placed with my aunt Michelle. And no, we didn't rig it. We just lucked out big time! It was the funnest 6 weeks. Those little kids just find a way of making you so attached. It was hard saying good-bye to them too. But through those weeks, I taught, observed and validated my feelings for wanting to be an elementary school teacher.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAHGDJYD1ipoUQx_JbeQdXtSLQQ1krBtYkd74jjFEoKotC5vw7nTALzB2tfu-8nISAhYxKZWQ_9fZG38DFrOOnmCMzeky_XLERZ2RqioFqfEedgWTWiEzGZSwawxQMbXuRHOT0gLeJtwhl/s1600/2nd+grade+class+cute.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAHGDJYD1ipoUQx_JbeQdXtSLQQ1krBtYkd74jjFEoKotC5vw7nTALzB2tfu-8nISAhYxKZWQ_9fZG38DFrOOnmCMzeky_XLERZ2RqioFqfEedgWTWiEzGZSwawxQMbXuRHOT0gLeJtwhl/s320/2nd+grade+class+cute.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mrs. Daines's 2nd grade class.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmHklSDYm8Gx-rG9C4hIxTHhBHIhliTK83rNY54hrjzNymG05yQfb8eSlXX6daHR8h0HAK3cNOnFYrTY-dq9HIHHKxYXPpSIHSwHF7xigQO05IJLZ5QsUuLKeN6trQCTziOVV6haLOxL8K/s1600/2nd+grade+class+silly.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmHklSDYm8Gx-rG9C4hIxTHhBHIhliTK83rNY54hrjzNymG05yQfb8eSlXX6daHR8h0HAK3cNOnFYrTY-dq9HIHHKxYXPpSIHSwHF7xigQO05IJLZ5QsUuLKeN6trQCTziOVV6haLOxL8K/s320/2nd+grade+class+silly.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Being crazies!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLmXb50YA3soB56WxA4GSvzjzc3bnANjATKZxmvcrdcuddcfcIhpWTaUf_nyEsxWQEHZaVvYJNgKx4d2y-f-dzghyphenhyphenbKxG3aQ1JOvqh8fUzdy5Ilm3F5iaZV33O8qTV0-fBb0gvRUlHgfiq/s1600/Megan+Teaching+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLmXb50YA3soB56WxA4GSvzjzc3bnANjATKZxmvcrdcuddcfcIhpWTaUf_nyEsxWQEHZaVvYJNgKx4d2y-f-dzghyphenhyphenbKxG3aQ1JOvqh8fUzdy5Ilm3F5iaZV33O8qTV0-fBb0gvRUlHgfiq/s320/Megan+Teaching+1.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">:)</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicdxktnfILQQY_0RD8_AMorhbmHao2MW3xmcishyphenhyphen6Dp6YvhMF7jBLovgQ4kfWvL99MWK2Yg9RRjF4nub1ggKqfKKdzuyRum4PemyNIxiwj-kH1hyphenhyphen8VjUcYzkI61fB-3JdyqJKnFPjCkHKx/s1600/Writing+Unit+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicdxktnfILQQY_0RD8_AMorhbmHao2MW3xmcishyphenhyphen6Dp6YvhMF7jBLovgQ4kfWvL99MWK2Yg9RRjF4nub1ggKqfKKdzuyRum4PemyNIxiwj-kH1hyphenhyphen8VjUcYzkI61fB-3JdyqJKnFPjCkHKx/s320/Writing+Unit+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The students' persuasive letters that came from a persuasive writing unit that I taught.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPGaDsheByEOSljudYHwzTJqZYRLoKHVTxb6QnxZ9FOK2gyij8IWdo6_uMRFvYxhMsMv-LM83IovL-bXawHnAfPTpSo9eVmBin6aWxb3BOkLFnjwJLS4Qyh3QDdw3QaR-kgMvOyscXv0kB/s1600/Lilly+and+Tanner.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPGaDsheByEOSljudYHwzTJqZYRLoKHVTxb6QnxZ9FOK2gyij8IWdo6_uMRFvYxhMsMv-LM83IovL-bXawHnAfPTpSo9eVmBin6aWxb3BOkLFnjwJLS4Qyh3QDdw3QaR-kgMvOyscXv0kB/s320/Lilly+and+Tanner.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cute students, don't you think?</td></tr>
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<i>Moving home</i>. After a wonderful semester living with 5 of the coolest girls ever, I had to say good-bye to our little apartment at D201 as we split our separate ways. Two will be married by August, one will be in summer school, another up in Yellowstone, and the other living up her dream of being an EFY counselor. Even though we will never all be roommates again, we have made friendships that will last a lifetime. I am so grateful for the lessons I learned and the memories that we shared over the past 8 months.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBDmGa3wOP_B2usF_bupH5sKDz3GIqnmkqWD8PsSsx1Y4KsBKQUwwIui7y73K0CXJButPYSlegz3TGWCam1mANQGVN5t8cQMprqnZZKRBTmtn9ycRW8tFMMZ9KcvIBp4DWAZiZxK5aqrKB/s1600/Ashlie's+wedding--roomies.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="273" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBDmGa3wOP_B2usF_bupH5sKDz3GIqnmkqWD8PsSsx1Y4KsBKQUwwIui7y73K0CXJButPYSlegz3TGWCam1mANQGVN5t8cQMprqnZZKRBTmtn9ycRW8tFMMZ9KcvIBp4DWAZiZxK5aqrKB/s320/Ashlie's+wedding--roomies.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My roommate Ashlie's wedding.</td></tr>
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Alright, so what in the world are these huge changes that I am alluding to? Well, there really aren't that many haha. I just wanted to add a little drama and suspense to the mix. Mostly, it is just a change of pace and location.<br />
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This summer, I will be moving to Bear Lake. Now stop. I know exactly what you are thinking...You're thinking "this girl said she was done with Pickleville last year, and the year before that, and the year before that." Yep, you're absolutely right. I did. And plans changed. Instead of commuting from Logan every day, I will be living in Bear Lake, working at a resort by day, and singing my little heart out by night. And I could not be more excited. Pickleville wasn't in the plan for this summer originally, but has ended up coming around and being the perfect summer remedy for me. I honestly can't wait! So, come to PVP this summer. It's going to be a hoot!<br />
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<a href="http://picklevilleplayhouse.com/"><img border="0" height="172" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjibgNCqZiFcS4qqYo_8ftZ5qT93Cpt3DpHA2yJIo-ztLiANOvWajhTwvBwYnImLKIneuuEU8onLiKT0b5aXAj6FHI0y3PF6PWCrUWbr-Mujj9fjbOEdPq_WESxhKvOlTXdA3DABAlpG36u/s320/banditologoshows.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
Finally, when summer is over, it is good-bye lazy summer days, hello student teaching! And believe it or not, it is good-bye Logan, hello Provo! That is right, I will be heading down to P-town come late-August for some permanent living...at least for the next year. This is a decision that I have been playing with for months and months. In fact, I feel like it has been slightly consuming my life the past 6 months. If I had all the time in the world, I would expound on my exact reasoning for leaving, but in short, I feel like it is the right thing. No, I know that it is the right thing.<br />
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I will be doing my student teaching at Orem Elementary school, about 10 minutes away from where I will be living. I am not transferring to BYU...don't worry, I am still a true-blooded Aggie! But I can do my Utah State student teaching anywhere in the state, so why not Orem? My best friend lives down in Provo and has been trying to convince me for the past few years to move down, so we will be living with a fun group of girls.<br />
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It is kind of crazy to think that everything I know...the places, the people...everything.. will not be there. I am so comfortable in my Cache Valley life, but that's why I think this will be the best thing in the world for me. It will be a huge change, but I can't wait! The reality of this move is slowly starting to set in and these butterflies inside my chest start freaking out. If I can just keep them calm for the next 3 months...<br />
<br />
So there you have it. Old events. New events. Future events. The whole enchilada. I have a pretty good feeling that my blogging skills will come back to my life now that school is out for the summer. Life is so awesome and so unpredictable. I get the shivers just thinking of what lies ahead... :)Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-20598953318157553262012-01-26T23:49:00.015-07:002012-01-27T19:36:28.632-07:00Days of Deep ThinkingGosh, where to start tonight? How am I even having time to blog? Well, I really don't have the time, but I have decided that you make time for the things that are important. And tonight, updating my blog is the number one task at hand. Not because it has been almost a month (eww, I can't believe I have gone that long) but because I am needing to spill my guts somewhere. Blogging is my form of relaxation...my runner's high. Blogger's high? Is that even possible? Sure.<br /><br />School has been in session for three weeks now. And the past three weeks have kept me running at full speed. Literally. There is minimal down time in my current schedule. Between a weekly 15+ hours of class, working in Admissions, teaching piano, dating (multiple nights of the week), working out, and never-ending homework, there is never a dull moment. Sometimes I feel like I am the only one in the world with such a jam-packed schedule. Then I look at my roommates, my friends and my family, and they all have their own agendas that keep them going going going.<br /><br />Luckily, I find a little time here and there (mostly on the weekends) to squeeze in a little free time. A few weeks ago, I went down to Provo with my roommates to watch the Young Ambassadors perform. I have a few friends that perform with the group so it was just delightful to get away for a night and enjoy good company, good entertainment, and good food.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHsVCRwdPfg9zhk-IdpYTLzK0l4jVBuJc6m2UGv5YDNR5bRqJdxtc4kNfkvLAjhF7rqGBBZ37B-1Sbpp-BzmnhjLD_J1uWpcOqhaV5zlFaKGL1OnfCTc-nPjahk3dnUbmOdbXdB7HeL2Na/s1600/YA+Show+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 399px; height: 268px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHsVCRwdPfg9zhk-IdpYTLzK0l4jVBuJc6m2UGv5YDNR5bRqJdxtc4kNfkvLAjhF7rqGBBZ37B-1Sbpp-BzmnhjLD_J1uWpcOqhaV5zlFaKGL1OnfCTc-nPjahk3dnUbmOdbXdB7HeL2Na/s400/YA+Show+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702203308659032722" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Whit, me, Rylee, and Chelsea</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span><br /></div>Then last weekend I headed down south for the whole weekend. Whitney and Meesh were so sweet to let me stay with them for the weekend. I had an audition and interview down in Provo, so we made a whole weekend of it! In fact, I was able to experience my very first pedicure. I know, right? Pretty pathetic that it took 20 years for me to finally have one. And boy, oh boy! It was incredible. I still find myself looking at my toes. :) There is nothing like sitting in a massage chair while someone makes your feet look like a million bucks. And then we topped it all off with a little P.F. Changs and frozen yogurt at Yogurtland. Mmmm, what a wonderful night!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtoxc3pAmWqcH3ryywdddnGKFJFJqa2Vu-T5aC4wBXQwle4E2mPRgWrAQepa-uzKk7kck78hCAXcGby2T36SGUJlcDIpFsmmhl4Vr3zoszPzOrh8mZXhjFTH0b7eHmkHLwUNhfZTonoALx/s1600/PF+Changs+%2528sepia%2529.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtoxc3pAmWqcH3ryywdddnGKFJFJqa2Vu-T5aC4wBXQwle4E2mPRgWrAQepa-uzKk7kck78hCAXcGby2T36SGUJlcDIpFsmmhl4Vr3zoszPzOrh8mZXhjFTH0b7eHmkHLwUNhfZTonoALx/s400/PF+Changs+%2528sepia%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702203312256299842" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Meesh, Whit and myself indulging ourselves at P.F. Changs</span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /><span style="font-size:100%;">And I have even tried to find a little bit of time to discover some new tunes. I have been listening to this song for the past week on a daily basis. It is called "Fine By Me" by Andy Grammer and couldn't be cooler! I love everything about it. So go crazy listening to this. Might I suggest a few others like <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ob7vObnFUJc&ob=av3e">"Love on Top"</a> by Beyonce, <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lEsz0ak3C1g">"You Gave Me You"</a> by Coffey Anderson, and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gkfPvJQAaIE">"Stand Out"</a> from <span style="font-style: italic;">A Goofy Movie</span>. These are not necessarily new songs, just ones that have been blowing up my iPod the last week or s</span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">o.<br /><br /></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dz6x22vMelQeHTeEPHPMU9G8GrJMvz9vveXs0DWworWw9x6JJxl3j8DimQxYwa9xaNLVgVLaLvhHSYZhNXsXA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Fine by Me </span>by Andy Grammer</span><br /></div><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Anyway, I mostly want to express what has been on my mind a lot the past month.</span></span></div></div></div><br />I feel like I have been doing a lot of deep thinking and contemplation over the past month, due to various reasons. How has there been time for that? I honestly don't know haha. But right now I feel like I am closer to my Savior than I have been for a while and continually desire to grow closer to Him. Some things have happened in my life that have made me remember a few important truths...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:130%;">First: Trust in Him always.</span></span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:100%;">This is something that I have a developing testimony on. Life can take us on unexpected pathways and throw some interesting curve balls. Sometimes the hardest part is knowing what to do in the future...knowing what decisions to make.</span> Decisions of school, marriage, and careers are just the tip of the iceberg. Despite the craziness and stress that these choices can cause, there is so much comfort in knowing that the Lord has a plan for us all, and that He wants the best for us. <span style="font-weight: bold;">All we need to do is trust Him.</span> I have been in the midst of a big decision lately, and this has been a reoccurring theme that I have found through reading my scriptures, my patriarchal blessing, and in saying my prayers. I also had some really great advice given from a good friend of mine who is serving a mission. It was simple but very powerful. He told me:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">"One of the thousands of things I've learned on my mission is that things work out the way the Lord wants, we just have to trust Him. "</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></div><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span>I couldn't agree more. Which leads me to another thought that I have been reflecting on...<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br /></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Second: The Lord's Will</span></span></span><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Just like Brian said in his letter, things will work out the way the Lord wants. His ways are not always our ways, and one of the hardest things to understand in life is to accept that and be okay with it. Right now, I am at a point in life </span><span style="font-size:100%;">where I have no clue what my future has in store. Will I get a teaching job? Serve a mission? Get married? Who knows right now. My life could go in many different directions. But I want more than anything to do what the Lord wants me to be doing. Elder Robert D. Hales spoke on this in this past October Conference. He said,</span><br /></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" >"We may not know when or how the Lord's answers will be given, but in His time and in His way, I testify, his answers will come. Let us not give up on the Lord. His blessings are eternal, not temporary."</span><br /></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:100%;">In a world and life where things are completely changing, the one thing that will never change is the Lord and His gospel. If my life was to completely flip upside-down, that would remain as a rock and my constant</span>. The Savior is my best friend and will never leave me alone, as long as I come unto Him. I know without a doubt that my Heavenly Father and my Savior love me. They have blessed me too immensely to not. I don't know where I am going to end up in the next five years, but I do know that if I live faithfully, I will end up with those that I love for eternity. And that is enough to keep me going for now.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">So here I am, ready to step one foot into the blind future, relying on the faith that the Lord will direct me where to go and help me in my decisions.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /></span></span><div style="text-align: left;">See? Told you that I have been having some deep thoughts lately. I'll try to be a little more light-hearted next time I blog. But sometimes the best way to organize and understand your own thoughts is to write them down. Or in my case, type them up. So before I sign off, here is a little picture that I snapped during my Provo weekend last week. It was pouring rain when I left, and I had a little down time before I had to get home, so I made a [second] stop at the Temple. Despite the old-school, 1970's architecture, it is truly a beautiful place with a beautiful spirit. It is the Lord's home and I can't wait to go inside one day. Well, until next time!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz8MvputL4iiEV-8YPCObKIsqo15h_EcGYxNQKL_RmFxGBO6fD2L641lhedcm-SPOURdHWOqrNg05wkAQlYMnMSWW7NKsH9-hJ_aiY35sSnYvLb6080u8dsEEUhgcfgXMuhoE9FYD7bWSm/s1600/IMG_0028.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 292px; height: 292px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz8MvputL4iiEV-8YPCObKIsqo15h_EcGYxNQKL_RmFxGBO6fD2L641lhedcm-SPOURdHWOqrNg05wkAQlYMnMSWW7NKsH9-hJ_aiY35sSnYvLb6080u8dsEEUhgcfgXMuhoE9FYD7bWSm/s400/IMG_0028.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5702504751543995938" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">I love to see the Temple.<br />I'm going there someday.</span><br /></div></div><span style="font-size:130%;"></span></div></div></div></div><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span></div></div>Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-24198933041664645362012-01-04T21:46:00.017-07:002012-01-04T23:40:26.255-07:00Let's vacation....to Idaho?This is the final week of my highly anticipated Christmas break. It's true. Four more days and it's all over. Then the craziness of reality sets in....school, work, dating, homework. Shall I continue? This Christmas break has been a little less exciting than last year's. 365 days ago I was basking in the rays of the Hawaiian sun, snorkeling with sea turtles and eating THE most delicious pineapple I have ever tasted. I'm not going to lie, I kind of wish that I was there right now. Okay fine, I would give my right arm and leg to be there right now. But I have had a lovely break this year as well. I guess if I was able to go on extravagant vacations every Christmas break, I wouldn't appreciate them as much as I do now.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8bNzlOTX6VvUrKi1vikuNRkv9h8yEK4Dc6SCIVEnZ1yvrUBbacCmn9qfDfPrsMmCLl_Ocx_NK2KyD251BDUlaKf1N5rYMSV8OqaqwKchjniZNK9vfsmYciJVOerdMZ34mncn5wWJOH7BR/s1600/171.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 230px; height: 311px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8bNzlOTX6VvUrKi1vikuNRkv9h8yEK4Dc6SCIVEnZ1yvrUBbacCmn9qfDfPrsMmCLl_Ocx_NK2KyD251BDUlaKf1N5rYMSV8OqaqwKchjniZNK9vfsmYciJVOerdMZ34mncn5wWJOH7BR/s400/171.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694015107864536818" border="0" /></a><br />So what exactly have I been doing over the break? Well, after Christmas, my little brothers had a basketball tournament up in Idaho Falls. And although Idaho Falls isn't quite Hawaii, I figured it would be great to leave Logan for a few days and chill with my family.<br /><br />We sat through hours and hours of basketball. We ate some delicious food. And we sat through more basketball. We played some games and took naps. We did a little birthday celebrating. Oh and did I mention that we sat through a whole lot of basketball? I think that I would have gone crazy sitting through all those games if my brothers weren't so dang good. Seriously, those little boys (who are not so little anymore), are incredible athletes. They are so much fun to watch! I was the proudest sister. Call me biased, but they are the best on the team. Just saying. :) But seriously, it was so much fun to see my little brothers in their element, doing what they so dearly love to do.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4FmRSG9JHDrzVq0_XYx9wzZZUpZf1boSrSPBmaejDp0GhHfAQJ8U4yh0hF82KKDsnRi0vfAh8hCttuUPAm62nThsStLOOc7SEu5uihiZlycq_SrRSwGakmt8tkV_cTkSqiKyn0WF5U46d/s1600/Basketball+boys.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 314px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4FmRSG9JHDrzVq0_XYx9wzZZUpZf1boSrSPBmaejDp0GhHfAQJ8U4yh0hF82KKDsnRi0vfAh8hCttuUPAm62nThsStLOOc7SEu5uihiZlycq_SrRSwGakmt8tkV_cTkSqiKyn0WF5U46d/s400/Basketball+boys.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694009113408202994" border="0" /></a><br />Like I said, I did eat some tasty food and have some quality time with my parents. My mom had a birthday on the second day of the tourney, so we went to dinner and celebrated a little. We also made a pit stop at the Idaho Falls Temple. They were displaying some incredible sculptures by Angela Johnson. These displays have been traveling to various Temple visitors centers over the past months and was only in Idaho Falls for a few more days. Did we luck out or what? Seriously, these were breathtaking. Don't believe me? <a href="http://www.ajsculptures.com/">Check them out</a>. The temple was beautiful, as all of them always are. There was even a bride and groom coming out! (And yes, it was 7:30 pm. Not your typical wedding, right?) I always love visiting the temple and can't wait to finally go inside one day.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvsp2m5Ei82_Grsr9wFG-kIPfS4-m7w6bg4eSFB92P_C5amiTKhT4vinHXMnbVQZQMyXqaE9kltW9Otjz7pqPlIA55qF18nKBtRFLtv4AZzJEuFBfdZxBAGG3yV5_kEZvbRbSLLumOQJog/s1600/Outback+%25233.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 336px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvsp2m5Ei82_Grsr9wFG-kIPfS4-m7w6bg4eSFB92P_C5amiTKhT4vinHXMnbVQZQMyXqaE9kltW9Otjz7pqPlIA55qF18nKBtRFLtv4AZzJEuFBfdZxBAGG3yV5_kEZvbRbSLLumOQJog/s400/Outback+%25233.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694009724486812610" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnedx116olaf0DGCxYLxNUwq4hI7SWfH5QXN2g_E56pLdwL8EJJOSHBlzAOIwGXNebFghqNOfnHTC5yvAtnmA7AmBZmsatOD1T7FjyFbuTRM_8yrXDWtgdOmzlBqrd5SDhVIAtXDYe5OBs/s1600/Outback+%25232.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 338px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnedx116olaf0DGCxYLxNUwq4hI7SWfH5QXN2g_E56pLdwL8EJJOSHBlzAOIwGXNebFghqNOfnHTC5yvAtnmA7AmBZmsatOD1T7FjyFbuTRM_8yrXDWtgdOmzlBqrd5SDhVIAtXDYe5OBs/s400/Outback+%25232.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694009156359766946" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtQsYOuJW6RLQDCB3t3JRLs_CNsh9dkg1vKVK7WNJ9_QEJb2c6I7DA995O5QvRrZhyH_cB74Ouw0LAePDXKYS8xFywpNeNAdfG8gmqmxiEyG7dMtTQc7USrUV5pltFoflRettqsQEQ_7kN/s1600/Idaho+Falls+Temple.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 357px; height: 265px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtQsYOuJW6RLQDCB3t3JRLs_CNsh9dkg1vKVK7WNJ9_QEJb2c6I7DA995O5QvRrZhyH_cB74Ouw0LAePDXKYS8xFywpNeNAdfG8gmqmxiEyG7dMtTQc7USrUV5pltFoflRettqsQEQ_7kN/s400/Idaho+Falls+Temple.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694009141775515634" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzJrqHmX4GPaC3vBZIrGy_7ClVQ0P2bRsjFrJ_6pRz34D0pil_Uqyxr8_GDAgEBnaBaX0NLZBoRxtoAbVk88XA9NCksYoB5wJFGZcAm3VmMWesUdHecoNRhwAZw9DAe5s9GPoUd7YnhmAL/s1600/Idaho+Falls+Temple+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 230px; height: 347px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzJrqHmX4GPaC3vBZIrGy_7ClVQ0P2bRsjFrJ_6pRz34D0pil_Uqyxr8_GDAgEBnaBaX0NLZBoRxtoAbVk88XA9NCksYoB5wJFGZcAm3VmMWesUdHecoNRhwAZw9DAe5s9GPoUd7YnhmAL/s400/Idaho+Falls+Temple+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694009130728601698" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIg9EBkHDunSuUuZPjhqoYO2TWbAP2kIUYFW0_GIRfr2ImD6ZIzjE85Br-ADeDosqTtDgEWRvge2oxWftGcyl1AYKyZp094aY4nZlWWkUb0dmbQhaBgWPZAihEIjjAG-xzug5N63kvvxPU/s1600/Christas.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 360px; height: 323px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIg9EBkHDunSuUuZPjhqoYO2TWbAP2kIUYFW0_GIRfr2ImD6ZIzjE85Br-ADeDosqTtDgEWRvge2oxWftGcyl1AYKyZp094aY4nZlWWkUb0dmbQhaBgWPZAihEIjjAG-xzug5N63kvvxPU/s400/Christas.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694009120460260322" border="0" /></a><br />Also, this<span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>New Year's Eve</span> can be chalked up with the other many great ones. Last year I celebrated New Years in my shorts and t-shirt, watching fireworks go off above Waikiki Beach. This year I still got to see some fireworks...outside in the snow in my coat and boots. But hey, fireworks are fireworks right? I spent the night with my two sweet roommates and dear friends, Rylee and Chelsea. We had some pizza, danced our little hearts out playing "Just Dance" on the Wii and rang in the New Year with party hats, whistles, fireworks in the snow, and some Martinelli's. No kissing at midnight occurred but it was a wonderful New Year's Eve nonetheless.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibyOuNbbGWXoCs4RVnK2ICn-FhqgYNMxuRha3PpCXpuTNpdK4xBwFlJ0LVhfzmy5N11L16LDwwK9MnJfIvMtf1MMcsKqJqwfP0QjZBoA1Izs2Z-JkNt31xgth1ZrX8L3vpjAd7LsNuZ2dl/s1600/Just+Dance+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 328px; height: 272px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibyOuNbbGWXoCs4RVnK2ICn-FhqgYNMxuRha3PpCXpuTNpdK4xBwFlJ0LVhfzmy5N11L16LDwwK9MnJfIvMtf1MMcsKqJqwfP0QjZBoA1Izs2Z-JkNt31xgth1ZrX8L3vpjAd7LsNuZ2dl/s400/Just+Dance+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694011890838843890" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0WOWsvioihCPN60-a_vdSwgxzi3Iy6cw6Qr3upKt34jKAPLjYmywWJ4_lI08lBI20MxPMRK9wJYIFFE8C7r-W_w0WDj2BZntFzaxSVmn85mQ8bLWr4S3ZaHXAoP-l6C3L9PSRnDHXUZzB/s1600/Just+Dance+1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 259px; height: 345px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0WOWsvioihCPN60-a_vdSwgxzi3Iy6cw6Qr3upKt34jKAPLjYmywWJ4_lI08lBI20MxPMRK9wJYIFFE8C7r-W_w0WDj2BZntFzaxSVmn85mQ8bLWr4S3ZaHXAoP-l6C3L9PSRnDHXUZzB/s400/Just+Dance+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694011885021509090" border="0" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx15XiCmnv4f7uoXq9V3vcnhcAmPR3tN1PwFoJn4gYAjaAY-lRWrYbnmCjk07CJ_pvQIpPz-Nm9_mniYGVBZ0SzX8SNQGMQHNJn1mGGUsGJAlDL3DyTVnKOdOUi7SX_fOTQDs0_Yg6Dosn/s1600/New+Years+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 334px; height: 290px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx15XiCmnv4f7uoXq9V3vcnhcAmPR3tN1PwFoJn4gYAjaAY-lRWrYbnmCjk07CJ_pvQIpPz-Nm9_mniYGVBZ0SzX8SNQGMQHNJn1mGGUsGJAlDL3DyTVnKOdOUi7SX_fOTQDs0_Yg6Dosn/s400/New+Years+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694011898524321378" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI3uYJIt0Q28fp9voYxnbiMAI8gE4TCGyaprjbt0hXlCNHpIzbaznLpjg0Iq72BrcpFh-O3U5YKI5niOyET4e2V_eknHr0XqCFETgX5rg9C6dNvYHyFHLXNszQ-eSkY793tiLqTpnQRrJ8/s1600/New+Years+3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 336px; height: 277px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgI3uYJIt0Q28fp9voYxnbiMAI8gE4TCGyaprjbt0hXlCNHpIzbaznLpjg0Iq72BrcpFh-O3U5YKI5niOyET4e2V_eknHr0XqCFETgX5rg9C6dNvYHyFHLXNszQ-eSkY793tiLqTpnQRrJ8/s400/New+Years+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694011918717404258" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGMb2QYXM_XZfMcGBvNvsKjZB4WPkGJ_4U5tdB2xVSj9-H2eEIrGK3JrAq4EAQFIz4WD0mWB-glJ6deVjQN0BzHpH9Ul9U8CEbIcvFEk0z6E-0Y-Qfuf34v0zuvFo1SS3pV9BVdYk2CzdO/s1600/New+Years+5.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 336px; height: 297px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGMb2QYXM_XZfMcGBvNvsKjZB4WPkGJ_4U5tdB2xVSj9-H2eEIrGK3JrAq4EAQFIz4WD0mWB-glJ6deVjQN0BzHpH9Ul9U8CEbIcvFEk0z6E-0Y-Qfuf34v0zuvFo1SS3pV9BVdYk2CzdO/s400/New+Years+5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694012128639210882" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT-im_Bxen8XICBcseZQnnbuQoEMdQdsMnCixf3VWSYHauM8v2Lrzb7CFSIOik0c9chI9gUUcDSeDvgBtTqoODfErOsxdcQa60_axWFc_Ek1kLdD_r666txU1PUX-7PV-LTnPCdrTJ8Q89/s1600/New+Years+6.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 336px; height: 323px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT-im_Bxen8XICBcseZQnnbuQoEMdQdsMnCixf3VWSYHauM8v2Lrzb7CFSIOik0c9chI9gUUcDSeDvgBtTqoODfErOsxdcQa60_axWFc_Ek1kLdD_r666txU1PUX-7PV-LTnPCdrTJ8Q89/s400/New+Years+6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694012122309158274" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtrsnCTo4Drtu5IUOtKS2QMDRXPQHYAbvN-Q160xxfEdzvbrMuAaP-fKEobKzENtauY3GNpPj7IG_3OTHv50Fe-cLdWvAUEUoy4hnneCZxmqzjdUnyxNG0MAg-v9FE5QnFegMtHriS-iY5/s1600/New+Years+4.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 337px; height: 231px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtrsnCTo4Drtu5IUOtKS2QMDRXPQHYAbvN-Q160xxfEdzvbrMuAaP-fKEobKzENtauY3GNpPj7IG_3OTHv50Fe-cLdWvAUEUoy4hnneCZxmqzjdUnyxNG0MAg-v9FE5QnFegMtHriS-iY5/s400/New+Years+4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694012140854569954" border="0" /></a><br />Here is a sweet video that has gone viral over YouTube and Facebook. It's the oh-so-unique Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon-Leavitt (stars of 500 Days of Summer) singing their own version of <span style="font-style: italic;">What Are You Doing New Year's Eve? </span>They are quite the duo and her voice is one of a kind.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyNwjVARrsOXgbJGnuRLnQJvQG-7C1upQYI_4pwrCYhGW9MfvNIZBv5SKQbH3iOuPoJ19uFVAWOlg--SZSsDg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /><br /></div>So it's the cold, hard truth...the holidays are over. It is hard for me to tuck away my Christmas albums and take down the trees. It isn't nearly as fun to go on nightly drives when the Christmas lights are gone.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqeg94D4abFL-eJ8SGqZbn7TOs1gYWdKyIpA6oLU7FMjEJuCxDe3YXDXUUd-o_KAR9bqKdN7SiwNB5dRqorLU6n9wLqzILCXPJeeD8yPxwwZbV4KpFUBrpR3m97z-JchdA2d8knXEwVA11/s1600/Christmas+Lights.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 334px; height: 207px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqeg94D4abFL-eJ8SGqZbn7TOs1gYWdKyIpA6oLU7FMjEJuCxDe3YXDXUUd-o_KAR9bqKdN7SiwNB5dRqorLU6n9wLqzILCXPJeeD8yPxwwZbV4KpFUBrpR3m97z-JchdA2d8knXEwVA11/s400/Christmas+Lights.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5694012147548854930" border="0" /></a><br />But with the holidays rolling out, the new year rolls in. Which means that there are goals to be set and worked toward. I wrote down all of my "New Year's Resolutions" and yikes! I have a lot. But slowly over time, I hope to accomplish them all. 2012 is going to be a great year, I can feel it. There is so much to look forward to. I am in the "Decade of Decisions" as they say, and with that comes a lot pressure, a lot of stress, and a lot of excitement! I am thrilled to see what this new year will bring and grateful for the chance to continue progressing and striving to be more like Christ.Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-25933068645397237502011-12-27T13:37:00.018-07:002011-12-27T16:29:34.149-07:00The Most Wonderful Time.According to <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=73UqDX_quk0&ob=av2n">Andy Williams</a>, this season is the "Most Wonderful Time of the Year." I would have to agree with him for many many reasons. Christmas brings out the best in everyone (and maybe sometimes the worst when it comes to shopping?). But overall, I would say that Christmas is a joyous and delightful time filled with family and friends and lots of food. What is better than that?<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">So here is a little re-cap of my week leading up to Christmas as well as the big day.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >The Birthday Bash</span><br /></div><br />One week before Christmas, Sunday the 18th, my family had a big birthday bash. It was my little brother Aaron, my cousin McKenzie, and my brother's friend Brynnly's birthdays. So triple the cake, triple the candles, and triple the wishes, right? We had a party at my parent's house and had a delightful time. Aaron wanted a few things for his b-day, one of those being this gaggy BYU cougar beanie. Now, even though I am a true-blue Aggie, I don't hate BYU at all. In fact, I quite like the school. But this hat is pretty ugly. Let's be honest. That did not seem to phase Aaron though. He wanted it so bad and so being the good sister I am, I got it for him. I'm pretty sure I have seen him wear it once a day since then. HE LOVES IT! So happy 14th birthday to my not-so-little-any-more-brother Aaron!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEctXm_9E000Z_ScVOruYdoarFQD5Fs4s-ZA89fyx0zTf1bC45kBp2I3p3-oZ0uqFT-pZ6tuu3d0P4uNimuM67rWc71z5z3eGzKOUc_12ygrW4B60-VH_Tc9BRmKp9NoQjGGPXxX_yc_D4/s1600/Aaron+birthday+1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 243px; height: 323px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEctXm_9E000Z_ScVOruYdoarFQD5Fs4s-ZA89fyx0zTf1bC45kBp2I3p3-oZ0uqFT-pZ6tuu3d0P4uNimuM67rWc71z5z3eGzKOUc_12ygrW4B60-VH_Tc9BRmKp9NoQjGGPXxX_yc_D4/s400/Aaron+birthday+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690944152147604658" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">The birthday boy with the lovely cougar beanie.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"> </span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY87FYkYTCYXl1hmS_PQg-peujizUIsVnyf_eR6Luj64LrfmbuFjN5vMLLEuYv2JJLrptMnvTMs0ki8NJCIbMmBUsiTjKXAAq52ssvVFUiVzj0F_9h2Ibapd7cWB4rJ8UyMeyT6fom2FXX/s1600/Aaron+birthday+2.jpg"><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 352px; height: 277px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhY87FYkYTCYXl1hmS_PQg-peujizUIsVnyf_eR6Luj64LrfmbuFjN5vMLLEuYv2JJLrptMnvTMs0ki8NJCIbMmBUsiTjKXAAq52ssvVFUiVzj0F_9h2Ibapd7cWB4rJ8UyMeyT6fom2FXX/s400/Aaron+birthday+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690944152877306034" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">A little sibling love. </span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGuu3X5JWOFzoZdYDfV39BgIs49SFUeLfk2EjX_IpTxiznhGcOcpdVgJskFeeDuNZpwgyIt0qawKRgQsze5EYLXZ9OrL2ZKgTKS4MlgKT-OuYpql5Ai4GyELeHywYmGn_X6PaFRrPuRxCM/s1600/Aaron+birthday+3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 352px; height: 273px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGuu3X5JWOFzoZdYDfV39BgIs49SFUeLfk2EjX_IpTxiznhGcOcpdVgJskFeeDuNZpwgyIt0qawKRgQsze5EYLXZ9OrL2ZKgTKS4MlgKT-OuYpql5Ai4GyELeHywYmGn_X6PaFRrPuRxCM/s400/Aaron+birthday+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690944165740995202" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Aaron and McKenzie blowing out their candles.</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Christmas Piano Recital</span><br /><br /></div>I have been teaching piano for the past five years. Wow, five years! That sounds like forever, yet it has gone by so quickly. Ever since my first year teaching, I have had a Spring Recital. Then during the year I have had group lessons/parties for both Christmas and Halloween. Well, this year I decided to do a formal Christmas Recital for my students. I love Christmas music so what better way to celebrate the season than have a recital for the kids to perform what they have been working on. It turned out lovely and some wonderful songs were shared that afternoon. I wish I had a picture or two of the event but when you are the one hosting the recital, it's a little difficult to snap some pics. Maybe next time!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Roommate Christmas Card</span><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /></span></span></span></span>I live with the coolest girls. Ever. And this year we decided that we wanted to spread the Christmas cheer by sending our friends, families, missionaries, etc. a little Christmas card. From our home to theirs. And now to yours! Here is a peek to the photo shoot we had for this card.<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br /></span></span></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPiXcSSkvBv7GZVGZuH1ykv6s8Oxjf2SELcsHNm1BuRT9ITrtO_Xs7UyFYyBEF0NpAUMvO7PV6dsdfdmZb4bd7o83BIeqlFSIuYVvj5vR-WY0NdCmZDCqj_-QF5V38q5S_RJx8O1rzdZzS/s1600/Christmas+Card+front.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 354px; height: 256px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPiXcSSkvBv7GZVGZuH1ykv6s8Oxjf2SELcsHNm1BuRT9ITrtO_Xs7UyFYyBEF0NpAUMvO7PV6dsdfdmZb4bd7o83BIeqlFSIuYVvj5vR-WY0NdCmZDCqj_-QF5V38q5S_RJx8O1rzdZzS/s400/Christmas+Card+front.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690918100129168466" border="0" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIVttl4O7Oqj50F-P0kcDlZHoxWwzFULyDrGwH-aT2HFzG7SBKd-jvzS6ewc_r1lW0jdhJAGHFIZiDhhXqwUryeKGsfoxRob3N1wL5AURauR0vI2VaE5XoJkK_02c2YpzEuugK8kWwzOQj/s1600/Christmas+Card+back.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 356px; height: 254px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIVttl4O7Oqj50F-P0kcDlZHoxWwzFULyDrGwH-aT2HFzG7SBKd-jvzS6ewc_r1lW0jdhJAGHFIZiDhhXqwUryeKGsfoxRob3N1wL5AURauR0vI2VaE5XoJkK_02c2YpzEuugK8kWwzOQj/s400/Christmas+Card+back.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690918125026257170" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFYoFTcPDYekPvSNmYzkmvZn9M6ReaiYx7mnnb7meS_8ekQpKfP8S4ebqSeTgYIZpMDr7nVqgfryFlE92LIuhZA4YtW3DQEkAHB7XbBGUn2qKSNiiJpAkEVx4R-K-mEFORHArXL-mf3r4v/s1600/Cheesy+Group+photo.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 236px; height: 324px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFYoFTcPDYekPvSNmYzkmvZn9M6ReaiYx7mnnb7meS_8ekQpKfP8S4ebqSeTgYIZpMDr7nVqgfryFlE92LIuhZA4YtW3DQEkAHB7XbBGUn2qKSNiiJpAkEVx4R-K-mEFORHArXL-mf3r4v/s400/Cheesy+Group+photo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690918068462779106" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGV5vyH1IggOpBGvhiGFzfx5JSHFR-XG8RxcUGoWp-sGY7L07cewrNyp05MOC3-2l4o9BA6GHQ7xEgNqSlts-7lxwZ0ctyivF6qErNevB69KIMSZBqMchbzUgVuVn5jRb5o0qWaRqRybnL/s1600/Awkward+Group+Photo.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 222px; height: 331px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGV5vyH1IggOpBGvhiGFzfx5JSHFR-XG8RxcUGoWp-sGY7L07cewrNyp05MOC3-2l4o9BA6GHQ7xEgNqSlts-7lxwZ0ctyivF6qErNevB69KIMSZBqMchbzUgVuVn5jRb5o0qWaRqRybnL/s400/Awkward+Group+Photo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690918062838318194" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiORhaGWFSKDTVdRRguSNNuAOXVF_fwNjJcdrtFNfWvY13T2Wrq80wAo0Lc993z6gaQGjdcwC35cQksJkk9qNEwskQoBv6RwsG3YkqWfoMau656UkmHDaDNmY8hb8ofRa8SDB96hAcypQr2/s1600/Cute+close+up.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 359px; height: 241px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiORhaGWFSKDTVdRRguSNNuAOXVF_fwNjJcdrtFNfWvY13T2Wrq80wAo0Lc993z6gaQGjdcwC35cQksJkk9qNEwskQoBv6RwsG3YkqWfoMau656UkmHDaDNmY8hb8ofRa8SDB96hAcypQr2/s400/Cute+close+up.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690918082718533858" border="0" /></a><br /></div></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pickleville Christmas Show, "12.25"</span><br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Another successful</span></span> season with Pickleville has come and gone. This was my second Christmas show and it was probably one of my favorite shows I have ever been in. T.J. Davis did a brilliant job of writing and directing the show. Sharli King put some killer choreography in it and then with some great lights and costumes, the show was a success. In fact, it was the most successful Christmas show that Pickleville has had thus far. Pretty cool that I was able to be a part of that. I have an especially special place in my heart for this one because of all the spiritual ties that were interwoven throughout the show. I truly felt the spirit of Christmas and the spirit of Christ on a daily basis as we performed for many sold out audiences. What a wonderful experience to cap off my Pickleville adventures over the past few years. I love Pickleville and the wonderful people that have influenced my life through being a part of it.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn3ozTS93BNOmwCxcBQ4GyubGf8kE2YP_R76T3qGR_H5cQGwxuql0cjddwL1ToHfFQ-jfP9g9G4_tOQDwISVVrNoYYGbWy6X9dVvVaV7EJ83CkZrQbnFlfdud5NFvoYdN3vb2Sr61Y6F2g/s1600/PVP+1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 365px; height: 271px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhn3ozTS93BNOmwCxcBQ4GyubGf8kE2YP_R76T3qGR_H5cQGwxuql0cjddwL1ToHfFQ-jfP9g9G4_tOQDwISVVrNoYYGbWy6X9dVvVaV7EJ83CkZrQbnFlfdud5NFvoYdN3vb2Sr61Y6F2g/s400/PVP+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690946302389858978" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">The cast of "12.25. A Merry Musical Comedy."</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit8CqmcKUNDzA0A_REcIy-pqXVPkBFSAXvhw3vaFnItgPwZQXKvgCtOqRykGUs_8hN5EvU6mBM2l6fyGnKZBdaYTpYxf6xk-lEu1BRrqqxcFwTUWvRQA156b4V0EJceaaZjIdQx2F1OLuW/s1600/PVP+3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 367px; height: 243px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit8CqmcKUNDzA0A_REcIy-pqXVPkBFSAXvhw3vaFnItgPwZQXKvgCtOqRykGUs_8hN5EvU6mBM2l6fyGnKZBdaYTpYxf6xk-lEu1BRrqqxcFwTUWvRQA156b4V0EJceaaZjIdQx2F1OLuW/s400/PVP+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690946319591593106" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Whit, myself and Sharli. These two are basically my sisters. I love them!</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOmWO2VPI2w8AEeQoXS7iAn3JN8ldVQzW9xeEgGLpGtFh7lemPCkxHV6dTeehWB9m1Wnp27fbJHRDO6txtrarafpArjE-O9bvbah3pNA2x1SACUjPVqDVfjodCb2LERk7_X-UhLl0Wj_L1/s1600/PVP+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 368px; height: 273px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOmWO2VPI2w8AEeQoXS7iAn3JN8ldVQzW9xeEgGLpGtFh7lemPCkxHV6dTeehWB9m1Wnp27fbJHRDO6txtrarafpArjE-O9bvbah3pNA2x1SACUjPVqDVfjodCb2LERk7_X-UhLl0Wj_L1/s400/PVP+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690946308462325346" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">The cast, crew, and even Santa Claus. What a special group of people.</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Christmas Eve and Christmas Day!</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Christmas Eve is almost better than Christmas Day in many ways. This is the day when the anticipation is so high that you almost want to burst! This is the day that the stockings are hung by the chimney with care, Christmas traditions are in full swing, and the Christmas story is told, helping us to remember the true meaning of Christmas. One of my family's traditions is to hear my grandpa tell "The Candle Story." This story has nothing to do with Christmas really, other than he tells it every year on Christmas Eve. This year, just my family and my grandparents were together to tell the story. Once again, it was delightful. Afterward, we read the Christmas story from Luke 2 and sang Christmas carols. Then we finished with unwrapping our p.j.'s at home and going to bed...dreaming of sugar plums and Santa Clause. :)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF5udHEcwrTEMWMul02SkrAgdKqKX2QqkO2nBP5LmKGiktt5i29l7Rnr8WDny9zZuIibHxhifk1-888YZimU95fOxIFfUEvI13FAL79IlMuQxEFmdAe5xs-6hxjnb3X27zpX1a3mq1cH2x/s1600/Christmas+Eve+1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 247px; height: 344px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF5udHEcwrTEMWMul02SkrAgdKqKX2QqkO2nBP5LmKGiktt5i29l7Rnr8WDny9zZuIibHxhifk1-888YZimU95fOxIFfUEvI13FAL79IlMuQxEFmdAe5xs-6hxjnb3X27zpX1a3mq1cH2x/s400/Christmas+Eve+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690944174325978962" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Grandpa Mecham telling the Candle Story.</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuWyM1lqldD-aQpoTZdgabQPkJ0Th9S8kO_vGAjQHqMBfTjnUYoy5TxRrBMkva7Dn7tcLGMVJ62o_GMyGm37UHcIDBbrHPtLtvzhGZPhqXmOTVAHD3dkweP-S33zSLLKO2QiopwltzbYCU/s1600/Christmas+Eve+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 352px; height: 255px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuWyM1lqldD-aQpoTZdgabQPkJ0Th9S8kO_vGAjQHqMBfTjnUYoy5TxRrBMkva7Dn7tcLGMVJ62o_GMyGm37UHcIDBbrHPtLtvzhGZPhqXmOTVAHD3dkweP-S33zSLLKO2QiopwltzbYCU/s400/Christmas+Eve+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690944188435122626" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">My mom and pops snuggling up on the couch. :)</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisAi4hRdZfg_H3YGOpnKDLLbgTxeFEeIrpUGRIC-XsIjAs3mmIA5PkqyCbhh4ejKG4wSvIrmufGb7ueyE7RxBxotWdvjHDtkVw-1BfdG5QZotEz8jkRzJ5digs4HXyae_ZhCJnaeD64ip4/s1600/Christmas+Eve+3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 355px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisAi4hRdZfg_H3YGOpnKDLLbgTxeFEeIrpUGRIC-XsIjAs3mmIA5PkqyCbhh4ejKG4wSvIrmufGb7ueyE7RxBxotWdvjHDtkVw-1BfdG5QZotEz8jkRzJ5digs4HXyae_ZhCJnaeD64ip4/s400/Christmas+Eve+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690944388849503346" border="0" /></a></div></div></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">I love my brothers.<br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxhfPCC3k0a5xNifKb-vWLQ-LMy9ZMyAdCuohKP7-GnUYeD84l9xwjjupvT5CYXNXuDVLxn9qvMq-13thWFrA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;">This video is dark and slightly hard to see. But it is the tail end of the infamous Candle Story told by my grandpa. It won't mean much to those other than my family, but it gives you a snip-it of our funny and memorable Christmas Eve tradition.</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Christmas Day was just as joyous. I had to play the piano for my roommate Hillary at our student ward's sacrament meeting. She sang "Breath of Heaven" and did a fabulous job. As always. I was a little bummed that I had to miss going to church with my family, but there was such a strong spirit in my ward that I ended up being pleased as punch that I went there. After church, my family opened gifts and we were truly blessed and spoiled. Santa found our little home this year, that's for sure! A few of the highlights for me were new running shoes, a new phone (which was desperately needed!), a book, a watch and my personal favorite...tickets to WICKED this summer! After we opened gifts, we headed up to my grandparent's house for a delicious Christmas feast with some extended family. It was the perfect Christmas. I am so blessed. The Lord has not ceased to pour out those blessings into my life.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2vVnK3y4TJZvRa38s3JFqYOwuNbQG2pHrfgLNGboN5XiOawxKhuEwxL5UUZ-UMlR8Zhlh9ASZLS3nLGc1xq8k2ytiZx9zE7bGNrlEQsZj4dDJDQkgE97T-e8HVYwqjVwx-xlkwSQrQwgh/s1600/Christmas+Day.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 354px; height: 265px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2vVnK3y4TJZvRa38s3JFqYOwuNbQG2pHrfgLNGboN5XiOawxKhuEwxL5UUZ-UMlR8Zhlh9ASZLS3nLGc1xq8k2ytiZx9zE7bGNrlEQsZj4dDJDQkgE97T-e8HVYwqjVwx-xlkwSQrQwgh/s400/Christmas+Day.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690944395463878610" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Christmas Day</span><br /></div><br />One of the most important things that I heard this Christmas was in my sacrament meeting. A bishop in my stake spoke about the talk in this month's Ensign by <a href="http://lds.org/ensign/2011/12/the-peace-and-joy-of-knowing-the-savior-lives?lang=eng">Elder Russel M. Nelson</a>. He said that the "best gift we can give our Savior for Christmas is keeping ourselves unspotted from the world, worth to attend His holy temple. And His gift to us will be the peace of knowing that we will be prepared to meet Him, whenever that time comes."<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">The Christmas Season continues on...<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;">One of the hardest things about this season is saying goodbye. This year especially I feel like it came so quickly and now it's over. So I don't let the Christmas season end until New Years arrives. Then I guess it is time to move on and take down the tree, the lights, the decorations. But not until January 1. So what better way to continue feeling the Christmas spirit after the big day then going to Salt Lake and doing Christmas-y things? Yesterday I went on a fun date with my friend Travis to Salt Lake. I have always wanted to go ice skating downtown at the Gallivan Center and yesterday that wish came true! It was the perfect post-Christmas activity. We went to dinner and then even went to Temple Square to see the lights. Twice in one month. Yeah baby! We finished by sneaking into the cemetery where President Hinckley, President McKay, President Hunter, and many other prophets and general authorities are buried. It was awesome!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPfKKdK-TqkCsVGiUhoFU3HeXCBJ6Pc0_NZqA4jSSb3dsFkkkaXwr3JbZoiQ-9GGjrihwcJi6tegSYH_RI8HHxANn5yWHoUFe8fCuA2bPRHC-3DWRCteqb454zPxuEB75o8X210sb3Ugsf/s1600/Ice+skating+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 353px; height: 254px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPfKKdK-TqkCsVGiUhoFU3HeXCBJ6Pc0_NZqA4jSSb3dsFkkkaXwr3JbZoiQ-9GGjrihwcJi6tegSYH_RI8HHxANn5yWHoUFe8fCuA2bPRHC-3DWRCteqb454zPxuEB75o8X210sb3Ugsf/s400/Ice+skating+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690944420729813234" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Ice skating at the Gallivan Center.</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM2B2MQWSyx9pAQvRgyGL6f6h0BXRVOZse_vfbAjY0961IIGdifC7F4e5OVI_No_Pzq4M4kEvQWxC9nnIJJMcKetU6AicWXwxVzOw9uSLfPGV8Iv7yDns7U3wBw7fqi8zoHvRUxxe9DcPE/s1600/Ice+skating+1+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 355px; height: 274px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM2B2MQWSyx9pAQvRgyGL6f6h0BXRVOZse_vfbAjY0961IIGdifC7F4e5OVI_No_Pzq4M4kEvQWxC9nnIJJMcKetU6AicWXwxVzOw9uSLfPGV8Iv7yDns7U3wBw7fqi8zoHvRUxxe9DcPE/s400/Ice+skating+1+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690944413154314866" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Travis and myself.</span><br /></div><br />There are just a few more days to hang onto this, the most wonderful time. But that doesn't mean that we can't strive to have the Christmas spirit in our hearts all year long. Giving gifts is something unique to this season, but we can give gifts of love and service to others continually. And most importantly, we can give of ourselves, with an open and willing heart, to our Savior. All year long.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj74FRWrYXSidHPu7mfmD7zFVQBj6DwhLX2hzNJvq4uqkbV5GtDztaB28oa-NA8eUWjSFBZAcfmJCNy1p4WGTjj3cDcGMerpYIEkdz3Qjmv7PRSOn-Zw-ZjqoVDQY_Pq__N7E8Z4DU-WBC6/s1600/Fireplace.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 315px; height: 315px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj74FRWrYXSidHPu7mfmD7zFVQBj6DwhLX2hzNJvq4uqkbV5GtDztaB28oa-NA8eUWjSFBZAcfmJCNy1p4WGTjj3cDcGMerpYIEkdz3Qjmv7PRSOn-Zw-ZjqoVDQY_Pq__N7E8Z4DU-WBC6/s400/Fireplace.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5690930960942982226" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Merry Christmas!<br /></div></div></div></div></div>Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-40003422744904728342011-12-14T11:52:00.003-07:002011-12-14T11:57:58.495-07:00Picture a ChristmasI have had this crazy love for singing all of my life. Starting as a young, curly-haired girl. This is just a short little 30-second clip of me singing "Picture a Christmas" back when I was about 4. Kudo's to my uncle Mark for filming this and keeping it on file. I wish I had a copy of the whole thing...because it gets pretty dramatic towards the end haha. I guess even as a little kid I had a hint of acting in me.<br /><br />This song reminds me of what Christmas can be like for a child: <span style="font-style: italic;">magical! </span>I am so grateful for the music of this holiday season. It is my very favorite. What better way to praise the Savior and His glorious birth than through music? Hmmm...yep, can't think of one.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='330' height='274' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyHs960r2cAuUVtGk9ojYdSA_uWNAgtOwoqKd6DdKItjxXx6ti852-9tiwKTF57aQhSfUWimiB56m0PY3TT' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-74592880921780536942011-12-13T10:35:00.021-07:002011-12-13T11:44:28.276-07:00Let the fun begin...<span style="font-size:180%;">This</span> is the week that every college students loves so much. Yep, you guessed it. Finals week! The late night cram sessions at the library, bags under the eyes, frazzled minds and hair (because whoops, you slept through the alarm!)....the whole enchilada. So why in the world am I taking the time to blog during finals week? Well, that's because I am DONE as of 5:00 pm today. All of my finals, which mostly consisted of projects/papers/lesson plans, were due last week. So this week is pretty smooth sailing, leaving plenty of time to sketch my thoughts on this computer screen.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Five</span> semesters down and only two more to go until this girl is a certified teacher! Boom baby. That feels so good. And yet it's pretty scary too. I am only 20 years old and I am now a senior in college. Weird. I am excited to begin my teaching journey however. I have a feeling that I will have a lot of ups and downs, but that's the beauty of any career. So, with finals wrapping up...let the fun begin! It's Christmastime and time to LIVE. IT. UP. Except actually, who needs finals to be over to have fun? The last week or so has been quite exciting. Scratch that...extremely exciting. Let me expound.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Two</span> Sundays ago, on December 4, the First Presidency had their annual Christmas Devotional held at the Conference Center in SLC. I had a few friends that wanted to go down to Salt Lake to attend, but we didn't have tickets. So we packed up in Holden's car, "Pocahontas" and hit the road hoping to get a few standby tickets and sit somewhere in the back.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">When</span> we got there, the workers on Temple Square were trying this new little "system" of getting standby folks into the Conference Center. We had to take a number card and wait in the Tabernacle. So at 5:55 pm, we were still sitting there (being number 250-254) waiting to get a ticket. My hope was completely gone at this point and I decided that I would be completely content watching it from the coziness of the Tabernacle.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">But</span> fortune was in our favor that night, because we FINALLY got our hands on some tickets. We literally bolted from the Tabernacle and booked it across the street to the Conference Center. We did the whole security/bag check dealio and were figuring out which way to go to get to the balcony when a nice lady stopped us and asked us to please come with her. She opened a door on the ground level and told us that there were a few seats that they needed to fill.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">I</span> was completely under the impression that we would just tuck back into one of the back rows, which would have still been sweet because we were on the ground level. But nope. That wasn't her plan. She walked us up the right-center isle, removed the rope that separates everyone from the General Authorities and sat us on the FOURTH ROW. The 4th row. F.O.U.R.T.H. Oh did I mention we were on the 4th row?! We were among family members of the G.A.'s as well as sitting among them. President Packer was directly in front of us as well as the rest of the 12 and other emeritus General Authorities. Afterwards we were chatting with <a href="http://www.ldschurchnews.com/articles/20487/His-life-a-tapestry-of-work-service-love.html">Elder Dellenbach</a>, who Holden once met in Alaska a few years back. What a delightful couple the Dellenbachs are. I hope that my husband and I are as sharp and endearing as those two were.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">So</span> basically to make a long story short, we had the coolest experience. We went from being ticket-less to sitting with General Authorities. The devotional was incredible. The words were comforting and inspiring. The music was thrilling. My favorite Christmas song that the choir sings is <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BkEeTJOY96g"><span style="font-style: italic;">The First Noel</span></a> and they sang it that night. I admit that I shed a few tears. After the devotional, we walked around Temple Square and looked at the lights. I can't think of many things that I enjoy more about this time of year than seeing the lights on Temple Square. It was such a perfect evening!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-GFnVTIGhpXLskloDB8TcSk1-JFykxtti8m6JQ3BFyLgg2fFhuBNyIjyxT-brVCRiQLUqjr6r4z16PHeQZYVlyBXrqnaQTQOz_RQGExHIvsFe-WQY1Iad5AuGG6_fKawy_XAKQlbWDEeK/s1600/SLC+%25231.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 368px; height: 302px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-GFnVTIGhpXLskloDB8TcSk1-JFykxtti8m6JQ3BFyLgg2fFhuBNyIjyxT-brVCRiQLUqjr6r4z16PHeQZYVlyBXrqnaQTQOz_RQGExHIvsFe-WQY1Iad5AuGG6_fKawy_XAKQlbWDEeK/s400/SLC+%25231.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685675977176183906" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv_ex8t78IxXwI5bOHendq5vAfnmtT067vEMQdJlDu_oQ_Cp6_CANEjm_bwq8JS3MreUxpknpTmm9K8VJuGTRhQ6MTWGlMWoMrVn4PcS3XdgMXWRDNyQ2zwcPuen3_ef_8ysgScvtHBftz/s1600/SLC+%25233+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 202px; height: 339px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv_ex8t78IxXwI5bOHendq5vAfnmtT067vEMQdJlDu_oQ_Cp6_CANEjm_bwq8JS3MreUxpknpTmm9K8VJuGTRhQ6MTWGlMWoMrVn4PcS3XdgMXWRDNyQ2zwcPuen3_ef_8ysgScvtHBftz/s400/SLC+%25233+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685675981859861986" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDRsNt8BrO95aARJH2R4ktJRckbxEYD-fffEaeUbL49i-v2YYJmdJRb7fSGShAO4n6ygjFVkXbSDpiF70DYUqwCNNTJI5UExQUVfaqg1ZWgnUDhWkJp_Nm8C9wWNgvFZx9iwBKYHkEqbGb/s1600/SLC+%25236.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 332px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDRsNt8BrO95aARJH2R4ktJRckbxEYD-fffEaeUbL49i-v2YYJmdJRb7fSGShAO4n6ygjFVkXbSDpiF70DYUqwCNNTJI5UExQUVfaqg1ZWgnUDhWkJp_Nm8C9wWNgvFZx9iwBKYHkEqbGb/s400/SLC+%25236.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685676006976925842" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2NxQlEIuVvf2Adkz93jTHSojI8jlLsNTDofR0n5I2h5josSay_95Xc_o3G77qfFuGt0Bh1U1ArVfb2uuDrvvcfZ2Dcjz8ihajaBSj3xKvpXVV-vhV1IhVCqou5o2NtgbEA6yp9VcDO99-/s1600/SLC+%25235.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 261px; height: 347px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2NxQlEIuVvf2Adkz93jTHSojI8jlLsNTDofR0n5I2h5josSay_95Xc_o3G77qfFuGt0Bh1U1ArVfb2uuDrvvcfZ2Dcjz8ihajaBSj3xKvpXVV-vhV1IhVCqou5o2NtgbEA6yp9VcDO99-/s400/SLC+%25235.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685675998469281282" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:180%;">Then</span> to top off an already bomb.com night, we made a little pit stop in Hooper, Holden's home town. It reminded me of Newton or Benson...a small little farming community with homes spread pretty far apart. And let me tell you, they know how to put up some quality Christmas lights in that little town. Holy smokes! Check this out...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh_fe2-EacUJeC8i1y4wEOFSOtsPAJ6rEadh2rjJH426G27ibSGhL2gyp3SUZuPH1LK-81ZBnC83z1JpHPpwonavm3or_VgJtyiUNeofhcyz7FNSTCwlQ2-vtd_jhQhGRrOzfWOIk90dJo/s1600/Hooper%252C+UT+%25231.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 251px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh_fe2-EacUJeC8i1y4wEOFSOtsPAJ6rEadh2rjJH426G27ibSGhL2gyp3SUZuPH1LK-81ZBnC83z1JpHPpwonavm3or_VgJtyiUNeofhcyz7FNSTCwlQ2-vtd_jhQhGRrOzfWOIk90dJo/s400/Hooper%252C+UT+%25231.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685676744880914274" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC-uiuJbqYe1ezdbN8Ii-mFzvWG1QJz8IhmuZXOJUF3Jd2WfKXZNWTC9NUTO_QrKa4Oi9wV_FwuIdkgVyGaNU4Mlci3JltI6z0raFVTR4eIzmI4BpqndQZLUbQa9CQiBmfJX7v6Wxx6KET/s1600/Hooper%252C+UT+%25232.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 352px; height: 251px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC-uiuJbqYe1ezdbN8Ii-mFzvWG1QJz8IhmuZXOJUF3Jd2WfKXZNWTC9NUTO_QrKa4Oi9wV_FwuIdkgVyGaNU4Mlci3JltI6z0raFVTR4eIzmI4BpqndQZLUbQa9CQiBmfJX7v6Wxx6KET/s400/Hooper%252C+UT+%25232.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685676760790501570" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Seriously, this is something you would see in Who-ville.</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:180%;">Here</span> are three more things that have added to my weeks of fun.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">First: Roommate Date Night.</span><br /><br />Every month we do a roommate date night. It's tradition. So for December, Whitney joined our group and got everyone tickets to our Christmas Show at Pickleville. After the show, we went back to the apartment, had hot chocolate and cinnamon cake and played some Disney charades. It was so much fun! I'm so glad that Whit got to be a part of the fun that we have as roomies every month.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKY19ZwaoPlKyxLHojjt_M-8XVtA_K-0WI2NEABtlWlJd2_uhinVih6DDq9uy7iKQQXqRIszCpKlgi9IFwRHRSafr_JJjoiSiIXKljTYeriE_H0n0hayPHA7CGXwlwOfAVRJoYjA7BMyLQ/s1600/PVP+Roommate+Date+Night.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 358px; height: 271px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKY19ZwaoPlKyxLHojjt_M-8XVtA_K-0WI2NEABtlWlJd2_uhinVih6DDq9uy7iKQQXqRIszCpKlgi9IFwRHRSafr_JJjoiSiIXKljTYeriE_H0n0hayPHA7CGXwlwOfAVRJoYjA7BMyLQ/s400/PVP+Roommate+Date+Night.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685679254078995250" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">My darling roommates</span><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Of3fCximG9_TzEXvujkFpPLKk-awcz1MG7TbYblneF3cpLDX1_aEFnzkTa_LRCDEkePCVcsJMXa389U8MFneCZ0ehduicGqaJCajSolY34AK0sX6IlSqYjJpYPKv6IdnfFhCYrWWU4rT/s1600/PVP+Roommate+Date+Night+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 361px; height: 241px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Of3fCximG9_TzEXvujkFpPLKk-awcz1MG7TbYblneF3cpLDX1_aEFnzkTa_LRCDEkePCVcsJMXa389U8MFneCZ0ehduicGqaJCajSolY34AK0sX6IlSqYjJpYPKv6IdnfFhCYrWWU4rT/s400/PVP+Roommate+Date+Night+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685679230699739202" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">The whole group</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjJQB1R1bSFUbcfSgy5tgTllgsn8klbr9zlFzwa665iTlwi7_tr1lzaUixI_lyv838Gdaiy3DqLjTN172BbdtSpWPVCHVcyNhfwhAoiu36DDAfI8fZ1keNYlnvgwXB97Dv8O1OUGNM3RR8/s1600/Dec+RDN+%25235.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 357px; height: 235px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjJQB1R1bSFUbcfSgy5tgTllgsn8klbr9zlFzwa665iTlwi7_tr1lzaUixI_lyv838Gdaiy3DqLjTN172BbdtSpWPVCHVcyNhfwhAoiu36DDAfI8fZ1keNYlnvgwXB97Dv8O1OUGNM3RR8/s400/Dec+RDN+%25235.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685679226444768690" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Hillary's date. Wow. I'm still a little speechless.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZmEmFm337BOnA9_JPKvpLvbK83a56SfmkC_sTrPMuLaQbDZmF5i-G1AYR7ajDSzIYv04fcUSbdLmetO3rj-KW12ir9NhP0Rx9d5Ssa4yBSUmefQhc49qDBRH7mFM-sMQUGKVRF-lqu_HF/s1600/Dec+RDN+%25233.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 357px; height: 253px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZmEmFm337BOnA9_JPKvpLvbK83a56SfmkC_sTrPMuLaQbDZmF5i-G1AYR7ajDSzIYv04fcUSbdLmetO3rj-KW12ir9NhP0Rx9d5Ssa4yBSUmefQhc49qDBRH7mFM-sMQUGKVRF-lqu_HF/s400/Dec+RDN+%25233.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685679222502726306" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">A few of us sipping our hot cocoa.</span><br /></div><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Next: Ward Service Auction</span><br /><br />My calling in my ward is the Service Activities Co-chair. Basically, this is the Activities Committee Chairman, but since the Church got rid of Activities Committees, they called it something else. And the focus of this calling is to reach out and get those who are a little less-active involved in the activities while performing service. So for December, we held a big service auction and it was a HUGE success! We had soup and bread bowls for dinner, had the service auction in the back and even had a special visit from Santa Claus (aka: the bishop). I was hoping we would raise maybe $200 dollars and we ended up with about $900. It was incredible! The money that we raised all went towards getting gifts for a Sub-For-Santa. I am so grateful for a great student ward with an incredible bishopric.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUn7dlEcMzpqVAZLgAA8t4j6c9x3714ChkEHd4ZaiUgF9bjfST2dWx6zKJP24CWgf6tP9_mwjz-sP4a18JPwo-Jcg511RRDTJwM75Dm6pptrZ4NwvyEGSyFJMmpf8DnSecHwuuRkhyW-bL/s1600/IMG_1353.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 321px; height: 242px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUn7dlEcMzpqVAZLgAA8t4j6c9x3714ChkEHd4ZaiUgF9bjfST2dWx6zKJP24CWgf6tP9_mwjz-sP4a18JPwo-Jcg511RRDTJwM75Dm6pptrZ4NwvyEGSyFJMmpf8DnSecHwuuRkhyW-bL/s400/IMG_1353.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685681513870437074" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Finally: Dying my hair</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;">I have been in serious need of a hair coloring. This summer I went blonde, then went dark again come school time. But the brown was beginning to fade, creating a bit of a reddish/auburn color. So it was time to get it done again. But I am a poor college student and especially around Christmas, I just didn't have money to get my hair done at the salon.</span> So, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I am a firm believer that if you want something done, just do it yourself. So that's precisely what I did, with the help of Whitney. I went to Sally's, bought some color and tools and then Whit and I created our own little hair salon in my bathroom. It was pretty scary, I'm not going to lie. I was worried. But Whitney could make big bucks doing what she did for me last Friday. I was so incredibly pleased with the outcome.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUoYdANrmigCFvH9jtZNCUge9TcP5gRdBK-Vs2JYQW4-K_A1kVsIZtYS5E4vUW9Zh8HTCPSJtSxiMiGnUrldg3XypHx2uldEPUdq-Iod3mHEP-9jtSv6BdBvSL4Hz5ZeZ7tSZGrkkXDRrY/s1600/Dying+hair+1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 339px; height: 224px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUoYdANrmigCFvH9jtZNCUge9TcP5gRdBK-Vs2JYQW4-K_A1kVsIZtYS5E4vUW9Zh8HTCPSJtSxiMiGnUrldg3XypHx2uldEPUdq-Iod3mHEP-9jtSv6BdBvSL4Hz5ZeZ7tSZGrkkXDRrY/s400/Dying+hair+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685682811882227298" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHG5GvqXvcon69MoPwW3sb3B5oYxgnaweZrZkmdsm-5TvBDyrWbxmOthtwlYPVK8Hl3Qw1ZBsTLIe_mYXEiFOi1w46b5w2KBB0ME4hvsyxvfyx6vz4358DjazAFeJQENh4f7E3jJxLB2Ls/s1600/Dying+hair+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 233px; height: 379px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHG5GvqXvcon69MoPwW3sb3B5oYxgnaweZrZkmdsm-5TvBDyrWbxmOthtwlYPVK8Hl3Qw1ZBsTLIe_mYXEiFOi1w46b5w2KBB0ME4hvsyxvfyx6vz4358DjazAFeJQENh4f7E3jJxLB2Ls/s400/Dying+hair+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5685682815234917794" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">I don't have any pictures of the final results yet. Pictures to come in the future.<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:180%;">I</span> have learned that despite crazy schedules and stressful weeks, like finals week, there can still be many moments for fun. And half of it is just recognizing those fun and beautiful moments through the drab of every day life. I am definitely looking forward to no homework or school responsibilities for the next three weeks however. Christmas break has never sounded so nice!<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;">So hasta la vista USU, finals week and homework.<br />Hello Christmas!</span><br /></div></div></div></div></div>Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-72329352880615067872011-11-25T11:31:00.027-07:002011-11-25T16:49:19.378-07:00It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like ChristmasThere is exactly one month until the big 12.25 holiday. One month! Where did this past year go? I vividly remember it being this time last year....the feelings, the experiences I was having, everything. And here I am, one year later, starting to be overcome with those festive Christmas feelings all over again. The ads on t.v. and in the paper, the radio stations, the retails stores, and even home decor is all becoming Christmas-ified. Heck, even my little blog is now Christmas-ified.<br /><br />So with this beautiful time of year beginning, I want to officially give one last shout out to the often-overlooked holiday of Thanksgiving and a few more things that I am truly grateful for.<br /><br />Thanksgiving this year was just delightful. It was my family and my grandparents...8 people total. This was quite different for me because whether we are with my mom or my dad's side, there are always at least 20+ (if it's my dad's, at least 50+) people. However, I loved having it be small and intimate this year. My Grandma and Grandpa Mecham are two of the most incredible people I know. They have such wisdom and love in their hearts. They are seriously my biggest fans. If I'm ever feeling a little down or unsure of myself, all I have to do is talk to them and my confidence meter is boosted to full blast! :) But really, they are so wonderful, and I am deeply grateful for every single moment I get to spend with them.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHKF_FpHlPol_etYofn3i6vvIGni2Hne9WnRIGgLac4MgTFw0NIRtKZDKEP39n8G0QtfgD__LVkHjUIhs9nnWbyeUpbJ8_Iuq3G37e0KDJm-sRft6RGkFxXBpcvkAiul06jVYudwNRQPxz/s1600/Grandparents+on+Christmas.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 345px; height: 249px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHKF_FpHlPol_etYofn3i6vvIGni2Hne9WnRIGgLac4MgTFw0NIRtKZDKEP39n8G0QtfgD__LVkHjUIhs9nnWbyeUpbJ8_Iuq3G37e0KDJm-sRft6RGkFxXBpcvkAiul06jVYudwNRQPxz/s400/Grandparents+on+Christmas.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679006305280728834" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Last Christmas (2010) with my grandparents</span><br /></div><br />Needles to say, I am officially stuffed with enough turkey and pumpkin pie to keep me going for at least a week. Looking at our table full of more food than any of us could eat made me remember how blessed I am and how much I take for granted. How many people yesterday were a) not able to be with those that they love so dearly and b) have even enough food to fulfill their hunger? Probably more than I want to know. The Lord has blessed me tremendously. I am very thankful for a day to count my blessings and give thanks to Him who gives us everything.<br /><br />A few other blessings in my life have been on my mind lately, and with all this "being thankful" business, I feel like I want to express my thanks for them...<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">My School<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;">"Utah State, hey Aggies all the way! Go Aggies, Go Aggies, hey hey hey!"<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"></span><br /></div><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"></span></span><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyJtq-QJcGVPdL5r6EEeaG7qGEx6ZBQ0Eu8yKQ3kDk-VSnuuFfqWOBY7prxtIOgV1iB2CvY_ddb5oGq3GpZLQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">Singing the Scotsman after our recent victory over BYU (11.12.11)</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-style: italic;">I love my school.</span> Utah State has treated me so well over these past five semesters. The friends I have made, the experiences I have had, the professors who have taught me, the knowledge I have gained (both intellectually and socially), and the whole USU atmosphere have influenced and changed my life. I remember my mom telling me how much she loved her college years, and when I was in high school, I couldn't imagine how it could get any better than that? But it did. Oh how it did! I will always be an Aggie, but thinking that I have one semester left on campus and student teaching until I GRADUATE is freaking me out just a little bit. My "college years" are winding down and I am realizing just how wonderful they have been. I know that when I do finish, I will always look back on them with fond memories. Let me take you on a small journey through the past three years of my Utah State life in pictures...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvmpCHE4w5QJR5jD_mZdlxtn8WcBZ73DBMXIAunmsRygXnVGIoennMqWHObpqCf58Zl-HLMLqVLdF6319-MfDjCca4tv03FAeK2yfhCVjHYfHY6ubMROvs1uXlsNnW6O3lenBksOndrVT3/s1600/Utah+State+Year+One+%2528lareger%2529.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 428px; height: 330px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvmpCHE4w5QJR5jD_mZdlxtn8WcBZ73DBMXIAunmsRygXnVGIoennMqWHObpqCf58Zl-HLMLqVLdF6319-MfDjCca4tv03FAeK2yfhCVjHYfHY6ubMROvs1uXlsNnW6O3lenBksOndrVT3/s400/Utah+State+Year+One+%2528lareger%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679022694489751586" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8liGnSxddSTZswGrDtL7_8zsW3vNsZogPNt9fFMNEg5cCvBZFXGMOp2kdKsJBDA4wxmos7RR8XMpypXOt771uEqLiW8U5xzmjJ5dt-NNaaOyKciz3EzH-7zoTTK9ulseJZbgGlM4j5q65/s1600/Utah+State+Year+Two.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 428px; height: 332px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8liGnSxddSTZswGrDtL7_8zsW3vNsZogPNt9fFMNEg5cCvBZFXGMOp2kdKsJBDA4wxmos7RR8XMpypXOt771uEqLiW8U5xzmjJ5dt-NNaaOyKciz3EzH-7zoTTK9ulseJZbgGlM4j5q65/s400/Utah+State+Year+Two.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679030156298290722" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7OhkqameTsAPBCSXjDpwOtaphoAeObYo9MxbQwfslsv4j8UtV5yYbMnozhXiJTCldPSvw4xbWBTYCbn3FEInnGmXWYDZiDMfYjAYSC88smeeMkkwZwpXZKiWML2IsmwUF3iQBUejZeIp/s1600/Utah+State+Year+Three.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 429px; height: 330px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip7OhkqameTsAPBCSXjDpwOtaphoAeObYo9MxbQwfslsv4j8UtV5yYbMnozhXiJTCldPSvw4xbWBTYCbn3FEInnGmXWYDZiDMfYjAYSC88smeeMkkwZwpXZKiWML2IsmwUF3iQBUejZeIp/s400/Utah+State+Year+Three.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679040557037602722" border="0" /></a><br />The only thing that could possibly make my Utah State experience even better would be having my best friend live in Logan again. I am so thankful for this girl...<br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:130%;">Whitney Davis</span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />The Urban Dictionary defines a best friend as:<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" >"Best friends are very special people in your life. They are the first people you think about when you make plans. They are the first people you go to when you need someone to talk to. You will phone them up just to talk about nothing, or the most important things in your life. When you're sad they will try their hardest to cheer you up. they give the best hugs in the world! They are the shoulder to cry on, because you know that they truly care about you. In most cases, they would take a bullet for you, because it would be too painful to watch you get hurt."</span><br /></div><br />I would confidently say that this describes how I feel about Whitney. Whitney Ruth Davis is possibly one of the most incredible girls that I have ever met. Because she is 21 years old, I will list 21 things that I love about her (although let's be honest, there are way more!)<br /><br />1. We have the same brain.<br />2. She is incredibly beautiful, in every sense of the word.<br />3. She is obsessed with BYU football. I know of no other fan that is as dedicated as she is.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSigFFCngo33C-Qn19YPcheiOQ5wWucjcWh5gKmwc1O9srNha1uv3ZLxR-P_zEVTnS46kJ3jTNC9H3vxnn7pg4dH15-SlF1QYaE6Ih6ZM2YlZDF1It-KW7MMsD3Jgi9-4MAuWJWEPxVLMk/s1600/After-game+reactions.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 285px; height: 217px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSigFFCngo33C-Qn19YPcheiOQ5wWucjcWh5gKmwc1O9srNha1uv3ZLxR-P_zEVTnS46kJ3jTNC9H3vxnn7pg4dH15-SlF1QYaE6Ih6ZM2YlZDF1It-KW7MMsD3Jgi9-4MAuWJWEPxVLMk/s400/After-game+reactions.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679057799609545890" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSh5NMsvCCc3GyAp3q1DxxtlHz0iRaTaiim8XiRT8gzAhuNk_2cs8TnTKYtJc7J09VNuRShuhxfkAs5pKpzJXmC5HjTpUkOYaJQYZWS9PJUpsPDgF6BNETl12utFSKpTw6A7OFOU6NOVpk/s1600/BYU+football+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 171px; height: 256px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSh5NMsvCCc3GyAp3q1DxxtlHz0iRaTaiim8XiRT8gzAhuNk_2cs8TnTKYtJc7J09VNuRShuhxfkAs5pKpzJXmC5HjTpUkOYaJQYZWS9PJUpsPDgF6BNETl12utFSKpTw6A7OFOU6NOVpk/s400/BYU+football+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679044698367333954" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8U2rATJYJjED_vwk4mPPyR__3CqrNWrNITiDTXqqWIwV6EECJH2T7rHLmU3SWvi6NoEiW-YbhWSarp26OAH1PchoOUCXWeLIt_uDIrN_7cyjgzqKDc226TurY2RM2jH0TrZ86XRgSP5j/s1600/BYU+game+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 295px; height: 229px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA8U2rATJYJjED_vwk4mPPyR__3CqrNWrNITiDTXqqWIwV6EECJH2T7rHLmU3SWvi6NoEiW-YbhWSarp26OAH1PchoOUCXWeLIt_uDIrN_7cyjgzqKDc226TurY2RM2jH0TrZ86XRgSP5j/s400/BYU+game+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679044675621151298" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh5cwK7avEII0L7DrQlRFhsjHsrKysUynnTC4DVLZ7pilu90wa8EFXzr5lG6fW6NlNJJk8u-KVr2oa4GnBup1o2KrrA8w5JafXDng-7I9L6sBHRcUz1jXFJHuH3XOwWra8dM_PJ0D49g51/s1600/BYU+game+6+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 294px; height: 230px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjh5cwK7avEII0L7DrQlRFhsjHsrKysUynnTC4DVLZ7pilu90wa8EFXzr5lG6fW6NlNJJk8u-KVr2oa4GnBup1o2KrrA8w5JafXDng-7I9L6sBHRcUz1jXFJHuH3XOwWra8dM_PJ0D49g51/s400/BYU+game+6+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679044672371809506" border="0" /></a>4. She is hilarious. Hil-ar-i-ous. I am guaranteed to have some good deep-hearted chuckles when I am with her.<br />5. This girl has one heck of a voice. Whitney Houston, step aside.<br />6. She has more friends and admirers than anyone that I know. Everyone loves Whit.<br />7. She is partly Black...in many many ways.<br />8. She LOVES babies! And her nieces and nephews. Whitney = best future mom.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv_4KsqiuvECVd8qA0J3QKVaf_K0SUBKmAsSM8eKBZReSdRExxELpV2jmbHrpdUH0kpXonoLRUEt2VrnT83OZNLyGwEKJdiGhC0XUI1hv7EIXKMW2caO4F4wO9jVxCdQnf7sjzmL07Ze4f/s1600/Whit+and+Tylee.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 185px; height: 275px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv_4KsqiuvECVd8qA0J3QKVaf_K0SUBKmAsSM8eKBZReSdRExxELpV2jmbHrpdUH0kpXonoLRUEt2VrnT83OZNLyGwEKJdiGhC0XUI1hv7EIXKMW2caO4F4wO9jVxCdQnf7sjzmL07Ze4f/s400/Whit+and+Tylee.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679057792805405698" border="0" /></a>9. She is very generous and always so willing to share and give. Lately, I am thankful for her generosity of sharing her home when I go to visit.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidjuPxDsI-HINSirdBXHH-dXzLOrNMAirT_ZPUgiVW21pFHsP2ylkIG-J0R8OWpOqeResHy2f9VLeNX5iPkqnN0iLHZnRnA2Ic3CDvc0SGjsUs4XIbMzgl8Mw-cgmNKK1x3GY_6q3lGf9e/s1600/White+Christmas.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 306px; height: 233px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidjuPxDsI-HINSirdBXHH-dXzLOrNMAirT_ZPUgiVW21pFHsP2ylkIG-J0R8OWpOqeResHy2f9VLeNX5iPkqnN0iLHZnRnA2Ic3CDvc0SGjsUs4XIbMzgl8Mw-cgmNKK1x3GY_6q3lGf9e/s400/White+Christmas.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679046429082388802" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Seeing White Christmas at BYU</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></span><div style="text-align: left;">10. I can guarantee that Whit will always be up for a good meal or a delicious treat.<br />11. She lends a constant listening ear and sincerely cares about what others have to say.<br />12. She has always supported everything I've been involved in.<span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /></span></span></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPZ_wVa3EXfJwDo_bknS-hSCYKexACOZmpQMpzawuHogxFdOdtWrxjmlpEZq_sE1cwQMlTUlslrxqh1cZwruO7SMt1tLgkejV17FDB25Fo-5wehw1FJ7ZqRq0kLKpq-HtvBL5PgxVoWigQ/s1600/Millie+and+whit.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 224px; height: 247px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPZ_wVa3EXfJwDo_bknS-hSCYKexACOZmpQMpzawuHogxFdOdtWrxjmlpEZq_sE1cwQMlTUlslrxqh1cZwruO7SMt1tLgkejV17FDB25Fo-5wehw1FJ7ZqRq0kLKpq-HtvBL5PgxVoWigQ/s400/Millie+and+whit.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679047879770372642" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcK3665eNzmxWusaZ-mrj8YfcYwVsn7EzQxaV_n23kbqr1TMA_BWRl_3kQVe_xwB67jzE9KRogHEfdo4p0z3PHOqXUlJpttvAKpWnbMpjYxeQd0IE0E3trodQUugJXl1MJ9SRR2WCwEK9A/s1600/25th+of+July+--+Whit+and+Meg.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 262px; height: 245px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcK3665eNzmxWusaZ-mrj8YfcYwVsn7EzQxaV_n23kbqr1TMA_BWRl_3kQVe_xwB67jzE9KRogHEfdo4p0z3PHOqXUlJpttvAKpWnbMpjYxeQd0IE0E3trodQUugJXl1MJ9SRR2WCwEK9A/s400/25th+of+July+--+Whit+and+Meg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679052035453993330" border="0" /></a>13. Whit is a champ at whatever she sets her mind to. She is very determined and hardworking.<br />14. She and I are going to form a girl band "Waggles". It's going to be a big hit, just wait!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkQRSTCMsJHybMO_di2ew_WLNqMNbmq2iixwc8Ndotc-7opM_3HIVoCujo9qjh4QuQAeCKniOSkdun9RxKs1iCtAgiehUhmT1dZ2i5LzX1noVc38jOu6_e5jnbTtJfcmQGDNXaEEpesPwg/s1600/Waggles.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 297px; height: 166px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkQRSTCMsJHybMO_di2ew_WLNqMNbmq2iixwc8Ndotc-7opM_3HIVoCujo9qjh4QuQAeCKniOSkdun9RxKs1iCtAgiehUhmT1dZ2i5LzX1noVc38jOu6_e5jnbTtJfcmQGDNXaEEpesPwg/s400/Waggles.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679049561268350706" border="0" /></a>15. She loves sports. Volleyball, football, basketball...you name it. Her favorite TV channel? ESPN.<br />16. Whit has the best sense in fashion. She loves Nordstroms and the Buckle and nothing makes her happier than a good pair of jeans.<br />17. She is one incredible performer. She has grown up on the stage and is definitely made for it. I have been able to watch her and work with her in multiple productions, and she is insanely talented. Audiences love her. And she deserves every bit of fame and success that she gets.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCNwe1hZwQAI3xtIHbwvRpN8ZjxnTXxHyA7lWxC4xZB_fn_GQj5pr4krSVPc6aBwVNu0-infT6zdQ0j_UJkCtA9HiF8_0ONfvT2WYvc2ya6B69ogUjX8SAhOPVpBzzrrctNLJdPK8Y2oOj/s1600/Pickleville5.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 167px; height: 265px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCNwe1hZwQAI3xtIHbwvRpN8ZjxnTXxHyA7lWxC4xZB_fn_GQj5pr4krSVPc6aBwVNu0-infT6zdQ0j_UJkCtA9HiF8_0ONfvT2WYvc2ya6B69ogUjX8SAhOPVpBzzrrctNLJdPK8Y2oOj/s400/Pickleville5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679050722091318242" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMuWRLQJIytSej_AOsd9Hs4zMONfCowhdLX4-C9q4U8Ei1uQBpqZCYpyjPXQLQ1IAbbgoRAzBNvp7E3Kv2jMABvpOErae0Kzwd5KS44Jrmj5q6va2-_uHV2tHwRbZRSSGr1PL9TJyCzEZJ/s1600/Pickleville+Cast+cute.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 294px; height: 216px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMuWRLQJIytSej_AOsd9Hs4zMONfCowhdLX4-C9q4U8Ei1uQBpqZCYpyjPXQLQ1IAbbgoRAzBNvp7E3Kv2jMABvpOErae0Kzwd5KS44Jrmj5q6va2-_uHV2tHwRbZRSSGr1PL9TJyCzEZJ/s400/Pickleville+Cast+cute.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679050737810884258" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMWYO2tDu6oKmpBNJM8VwkrwKlTPWH5YRdGUFhKqPRV7TMuf_31t1hWdDTsUyWpwx5dPaxGVEONHWKQKOezTMIbOJqleCV8udrdRQObRZn5LBPEqIpvWxByVOs5h04p1wblUnyHASaQ1JI/s1600/Besties+3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 213px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMWYO2tDu6oKmpBNJM8VwkrwKlTPWH5YRdGUFhKqPRV7TMuf_31t1hWdDTsUyWpwx5dPaxGVEONHWKQKOezTMIbOJqleCV8udrdRQObRZn5LBPEqIpvWxByVOs5h04p1wblUnyHASaQ1JI/s400/Besties+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679050741450294850" border="0" /></a>18. Whit has been through a lot in her life, yet keeps a smile and a positive outlook. She is one of the strongest people that I know.<br />19. We have similar opinions and mannerisms. I could probably finish one of her sentences in the exact tone of voice she would use. She could probably finish one of my dance moves with exactness... oh wait, she does do that. It is so nice having a friend whose values to sense of humor line up with your own.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG5OsxJJoQZz1Qs05q48u26Ri9BxUuSGWoxczjzTpSgfQXyrgQZe2sIG_-661XFqa0Gd79ePzi9zzQZZEMj5Xyns7Le9HcePvh8SLvP9rs80yezcJaeM71mN8IZWolFKfpUmgWjxpMJrDQ/s1600/Weirdies.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 294px; height: 220px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgG5OsxJJoQZz1Qs05q48u26Ri9BxUuSGWoxczjzTpSgfQXyrgQZe2sIG_-661XFqa0Gd79ePzi9zzQZZEMj5Xyns7Le9HcePvh8SLvP9rs80yezcJaeM71mN8IZWolFKfpUmgWjxpMJrDQ/s400/Weirdies.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679058642373928402" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsXycpk_Ha2FYZJnqxxGNlvwVVY1eChysEkeP2OrexxW6-dJsQDjMrWRtb41QKPXhToB53_8FEFpTcP_jcxJ-c15vlhmg1kbD6e-3RuaGCbc4pTWbX7LgfgPcv6P9QejO0w8Iiduf95Eyj/s1600/Grumpy.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 193px; height: 258px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsXycpk_Ha2FYZJnqxxGNlvwVVY1eChysEkeP2OrexxW6-dJsQDjMrWRtb41QKPXhToB53_8FEFpTcP_jcxJ-c15vlhmg1kbD6e-3RuaGCbc4pTWbX7LgfgPcv6P9QejO0w8Iiduf95Eyj/s400/Grumpy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679054810563577282" border="0" /></a>20. Her testimony and love of the gospel are evident in her daily actions. She shines with the light of Christ.<br />21. Whitney is the best friend a person could ask for. Everyone's lives that she enters are truly blessed and bettered because of knowing her.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaP_AGvdi7PP1tLPzvEevSEWf74HXUtBS6DR7KkywPE9fw18XQYl3xMYck1OUWdGEAfb_HtqQkIeJYZ4aYzSO0HDv4PQITVtBhJcUHGglZNTp8rNag8b8uK5PyggYtcaFvLBJ7rMHr0YG6/s1600/USU+game.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 282px; height: 223px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgaP_AGvdi7PP1tLPzvEevSEWf74HXUtBS6DR7KkywPE9fw18XQYl3xMYck1OUWdGEAfb_HtqQkIeJYZ4aYzSO0HDv4PQITVtBhJcUHGglZNTp8rNag8b8uK5PyggYtcaFvLBJ7rMHr0YG6/s400/USU+game.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5679044692373586322" border="0" /></a>Well, with Thanksgiving thankfulness and Christmas cheer in my heart, I can't help but feel so happy today. There is so much good in this world, and like President Uchtdorf said in his General Releief Society talk, there is absolute reason to be happy now. There is no need to wait around for a golden ticket when life is surrounded by delicious chocolate....<br />Now if I can just survive the last two weeks of school and finals week, life will be smoooooth sailing. Let the Christmas joy begin!<br /></div></div></div></div>Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-79024191269915027392011-11-13T21:21:00.021-07:002011-11-14T00:00:56.113-07:00Giving thanks for... holidays.<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;" class="body">"I like to compare the holiday season with the way a child listens to a favorite story. The pleasure is in the familiar way the story begins, the anticipation of familiar turns it takes, the familiar moments of suspense, and the familiar climax and ending."</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">-Fred Rogers<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">While Mr. Rogers so beautifully illustrates the holiday season, I believe that this quote can be applicable to <span style="font-style: italic;">any </span>holiday season, not just Christmas. Holidays are absolutely, positively one of the most memorable and delightful things in this life. Whether it is a big and exciting holiday like Christmas or the 4th of July, or just a small simple holiday like Memorial Day or Veterans Day, I love having reason to celebrate. Wearing festive clothes or making special treats or giving little gifts are all pieces of the fun atmosphere of holidays.<br /><br />This time of year is especially festive. "The holiday season" is upon us, and now that Halloween has passed, it only gets better from there! So here are a few memories that accompany the most recent holidays in my life....starting back in August.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:130%;">My Birthday</span><br /><br />August 23 is one of those days that will always and forever be sweet to me. Why? Well, it's my birthday! Okay, okay, I know that birthdays aren't as cool when you are older as when you are a little kid, but I still LOVE them. Even though most of my birthdays now are just like any other day, the kind words and love shown from friends and family make a birthday what it is. This past year, I actually moved on my birthday....real exciting, I know. But I got four birthday cakes this year. Yep, that's right. F.O.U.R. It was lovely!<br /><br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwpMhIQU8ra_IkC4RNCuZz1db2sZjJLpdjQ_S2S37QX7KTOlryf2MWaB2IUZbUfFJI1G3fBmt6pOwd6jzy121vH8W7uLL-tz5EQz9iP0nL4yCKnLg10R1AK5WrA8MKGLz-Y3ntbR2rExnR/s1600/Cafe+Rio+Birthday+1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 368px; height: 251px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwpMhIQU8ra_IkC4RNCuZz1db2sZjJLpdjQ_S2S37QX7KTOlryf2MWaB2IUZbUfFJI1G3fBmt6pOwd6jzy121vH8W7uLL-tz5EQz9iP0nL4yCKnLg10R1AK5WrA8MKGLz-Y3ntbR2rExnR/s400/Cafe+Rio+Birthday+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674721258236518626" border="0" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;">A little Taco Tuesday on the birthday.<br /></span></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeSP8wePRBpLZywMVnDx0X1dPpIWm-CNfcMe8skXcTGiT2lhzURb0PQn3G7ja-IrqQpdY7NPjhrLxGe_fgNU92fvVV32xjjh3S1vk4veiUfKJCp_HLzQB3EoV9n_T7s5C2yE7LuK-O-_sF/s1600/Cafe+Rio+Birthday+2+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 367px; height: 310px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeSP8wePRBpLZywMVnDx0X1dPpIWm-CNfcMe8skXcTGiT2lhzURb0PQn3G7ja-IrqQpdY7NPjhrLxGe_fgNU92fvVV32xjjh3S1vk4veiUfKJCp_HLzQB3EoV9n_T7s5C2yE7LuK-O-_sF/s400/Cafe+Rio+Birthday+2+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674721239629650850" border="0" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;">First birthday cake... Tres Leches. And so delish!<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_cFnWEwLadH6pRLlbFJkwZJ3sZcIAvNeWiPklbmpY3oOww6pxTkxvA_RlYdQ7vj_IsYyeeIETe1PSFQhFaNfWDnaLaD2EoAiLbAq3y5C_agc84cBwCejQbe0K69xR6ObRa8MKoUnKkc9G/s1600/Birthday+Bowling.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 368px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_cFnWEwLadH6pRLlbFJkwZJ3sZcIAvNeWiPklbmpY3oOww6pxTkxvA_RlYdQ7vj_IsYyeeIETe1PSFQhFaNfWDnaLaD2EoAiLbAq3y5C_agc84cBwCejQbe0K69xR6ObRa8MKoUnKkc9G/s400/Birthday+Bowling.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674721255585261394" border="0" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;">With the bowling crew<br /></span></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwky1ARqu0QcuCnLBmtalXWRkmsmYbUgZlpkBJpotuGYoa3PecK3GqSUDh_lJkeroiQtE9It4daufbn775heLPHYC2BBJ7vwU_1lv2Zm1V9tdQS1aCjwE1GuWJLT6wA5yfMqN2dVzRas_f/s1600/Birthday+Cake+3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 306px; height: 372px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwky1ARqu0QcuCnLBmtalXWRkmsmYbUgZlpkBJpotuGYoa3PecK3GqSUDh_lJkeroiQtE9It4daufbn775heLPHYC2BBJ7vwU_1lv2Zm1V9tdQS1aCjwE1GuWJLT6wA5yfMqN2dVzRas_f/s400/Birthday+Cake+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674721232357217202" border="0" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Birthday Cake #2...<br />#3 came from my friends at Pickleville.<br />#4 came from my family.<br /></span></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwE09AUOC3Bzmk7F61-su_vg1FqYYWSE-vDb_0kbtwHKSGR3tyNzEiHnEcTEPVkiVFrrMCBI62Nf7hkoTHejelcrzZGJRhNnOYc9fe2G_De_moGUOOJ0un7NKjCTnk-gZ_FmI1qyYz19VG/s1600/Brookyln%2527s+Card.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 367px; height: 273px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwE09AUOC3Bzmk7F61-su_vg1FqYYWSE-vDb_0kbtwHKSGR3tyNzEiHnEcTEPVkiVFrrMCBI62Nf7hkoTHejelcrzZGJRhNnOYc9fe2G_De_moGUOOJ0un7NKjCTnk-gZ_FmI1qyYz19VG/s400/Brookyln%2527s+Card.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674721276825018178" border="0" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;">One of the sweet cards I received from a little friend of mine.<br /></span></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi09Fttid3TiyF7Ej6p97AF0gTjGTvWCHCDZEb6vFXpl7XgxBGYtrT8pGxnSDH_2Mhe-gsSKli0e9SfXG0ezCW6SA7NZQjlNEDqMLs_VJQq8s9dFYbiWVqIuXWfekrl1h5zRKXLJ9Q2xS70/s1600/Birthday+Dinner+3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 368px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi09Fttid3TiyF7Ej6p97AF0gTjGTvWCHCDZEb6vFXpl7XgxBGYtrT8pGxnSDH_2Mhe-gsSKli0e9SfXG0ezCW6SA7NZQjlNEDqMLs_VJQq8s9dFYbiWVqIuXWfekrl1h5zRKXLJ9Q2xS70/s400/Birthday+Dinner+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674721489168690338" border="0" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;">My birthday barbeque with the family.<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;">These are some of the most important boys in my life.<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Labor Day</span><br /><br />Labor Day is usually just one of those fun 4-day weekends with no school on Monday. Every year I typically just chill, relax, kick back, and enjoy my day off...at home. This year however I got to do something that I didn't get to do once this summer: boating! I love going boating, but my family doesn't own a boat and every time my friends went this summer, I wasn't able to go. So just when I thought that my summer would be pathetically labeled as never going boating, Labor Day came. My friend Brad invited me to go with his family and it was a BLAST! Gosh, I knew I always loved Labor Day...<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTqIiF6sr9RHShFJbs0ghJv8Z83llkzqk_5cEj79SpWBtU9vvaJXp9MPVJEY5pWOgZwuORlAeMFdnC6E6XrniUV5bxuv6_HA1zQrYSNzfuWKDgFZSrJvdQmfCqF4CiR2NwTidHzxjHLAkZ/s1600/Boating--Brad+and+Meg.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 374px; height: 285px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTqIiF6sr9RHShFJbs0ghJv8Z83llkzqk_5cEj79SpWBtU9vvaJXp9MPVJEY5pWOgZwuORlAeMFdnC6E6XrniUV5bxuv6_HA1zQrYSNzfuWKDgFZSrJvdQmfCqF4CiR2NwTidHzxjHLAkZ/s400/Boating--Brad+and+Meg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674724952105662674" border="0" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Boating with Brad<br /></span></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipAxZ1bRYJse4RK2lKS2oWFHh1WVDucSLiVfucI58yiEMbrXFmMZaesGYtaVS4QIadHOZxPpc7Ahc-FwpSnpXC20t1PY0glWEyOM_t5kR_QBmr7ci6Tugz0b7HRDiWogKugYenlId8T795/s1600/Mark+boating+1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 374px; height: 282px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipAxZ1bRYJse4RK2lKS2oWFHh1WVDucSLiVfucI58yiEMbrXFmMZaesGYtaVS4QIadHOZxPpc7Ahc-FwpSnpXC20t1PY0glWEyOM_t5kR_QBmr7ci6Tugz0b7HRDiWogKugYenlId8T795/s400/Mark+boating+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674724966957076898" border="0" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Brad's brother-in-law Mark. He is seriously a pro.<br /></span></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzlXs5c9XlxvIvHCcplap8dVaTrP6vMGswHQBVb-1cDSRW_NDDDcc2DHi6UpawfqkoH3fUzl9bl9paBT2szFy8od7pMFyXSYVOAxtF6jgnPcMjWwQGItII8Busz2Qzz2jYpcYHv3cOLI1l/s1600/Mark+boating+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 372px; height: 279px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzlXs5c9XlxvIvHCcplap8dVaTrP6vMGswHQBVb-1cDSRW_NDDDcc2DHi6UpawfqkoH3fUzl9bl9paBT2szFy8od7pMFyXSYVOAxtF6jgnPcMjWwQGItII8Busz2Qzz2jYpcYHv3cOLI1l/s400/Mark+boating+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674724970417210642" border="0" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;">See what I mean?<br /></span></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS1e0H9q4qGsa99SlbM1K5HbpPNUSsAfJBHpOAuFNpX-msj3qOCagunqG1g42TremihsPr7jMEl_9WF3d5MinncykQ76k3AvuSyeWGY6-8jKYlBNezkoHHeqQbAp_L44T0PqBIrBPiqui7/s1600/Boating--Zac.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 374px; height: 282px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS1e0H9q4qGsa99SlbM1K5HbpPNUSsAfJBHpOAuFNpX-msj3qOCagunqG1g42TremihsPr7jMEl_9WF3d5MinncykQ76k3AvuSyeWGY6-8jKYlBNezkoHHeqQbAp_L44T0PqBIrBPiqui7/s400/Boating--Zac.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674724977674212578" border="0" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Brad's nephew Zac. Such a cute face right there!<br /></span></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Halloween</span><br /><br />All Hallow's Eve. The holiday for witches, goblins, ghosts, ghouls and pumpkins. And most importantly, candy and costumes! Sheesh, Halloween is such a classy holiday. Classy? Hmmm maybe that's not the best adjective to describe it. Maybe more like creepy? Or crazy? Or creative? Or how about a mash-up of all of the above. The thing I love about Halloween (and October in general) are all of the fun activities that can be done that time of year. There is pumpkin carving, corn mazes, caramel apples, scary movies, haunted houses, trick-or-treating, costumes parties, murder mysteries....shall I go on? Here are a few of the fun Halloween things that I did this year:<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNR21dF2Zj42UMB-BXvZOOUvkgOZdRjo2OovcixDIWfdeKNOpBKe3hSLEFOKRKuQHgmT1ilY55Nn7MDzS8aAx6cktxDxpDsxVcIPk95JwGTeWT7-WbZ8fhJuxVZblcML9sQRTQ3AlyMfI9/s1600/Roommate+Date+Night+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 382px; height: 275px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNR21dF2Zj42UMB-BXvZOOUvkgOZdRjo2OovcixDIWfdeKNOpBKe3hSLEFOKRKuQHgmT1ilY55Nn7MDzS8aAx6cktxDxpDsxVcIPk95JwGTeWT7-WbZ8fhJuxVZblcML9sQRTQ3AlyMfI9/s400/Roommate+Date+Night+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674728684654690578" border="0" /></a></span>Roommate Date Night. The group at the corn maze.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZof4YHxGBsKM1J8RsAAYxRsgpPjCIfz9woGw_QwGyz4FJanD8vdMncXIrotOLqySq9Rm1T5Mo5-XyGzf2P7Pom4KUY9LqaOV-WBqfTXOpbhGZZooBUJwRdM8SPHKNsaOTqH1Y-tjaZW2z/s1600/Roommate+Date+Night+1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 274px; height: 376px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZof4YHxGBsKM1J8RsAAYxRsgpPjCIfz9woGw_QwGyz4FJanD8vdMncXIrotOLqySq9Rm1T5Mo5-XyGzf2P7Pom4KUY9LqaOV-WBqfTXOpbhGZZooBUJwRdM8SPHKNsaOTqH1Y-tjaZW2z/s400/Roommate+Date+Night+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674728676999794386" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">My cute date Holden.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc6ixjm-HH97x27Ol8dHfKJu0b1t3qVBptI0xMx3hCdXWMk3Chy_sRYBL3WTm5MVRFNJoQRUYySlot_DvfXiNOjZ4vtRY96I8Xu6r_o6KJZ7Gnyge6a4P-DkveAhVEh5IckHsBwHjsbWQZ/s1600/Roommate+Date+Night+%25233.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 369px; height: 256px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc6ixjm-HH97x27Ol8dHfKJu0b1t3qVBptI0xMx3hCdXWMk3Chy_sRYBL3WTm5MVRFNJoQRUYySlot_DvfXiNOjZ4vtRY96I8Xu6r_o6KJZ7Gnyge6a4P-DkveAhVEh5IckHsBwHjsbWQZ/s400/Roommate+Date+Night+%25233.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674728485817752770" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Making caramel apples.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEsWM72sBNgXRK6H058gxnFAAKRJakIjwUhwioxsv4lxeP8ybykDgF2QdYYvgUiphmcviYIab3a7RXqjXEH0hn9OK0eo0I917512Lv6qm7_KxSyUe4NvbF1r_XYCzYV6bC6ZcI1MXxgZf4/s1600/Roommate+Date+Night+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 368px; height: 301px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEsWM72sBNgXRK6H058gxnFAAKRJakIjwUhwioxsv4lxeP8ybykDgF2QdYYvgUiphmcviYIab3a7RXqjXEH0hn9OK0eo0I917512Lv6qm7_KxSyUe4NvbF1r_XYCzYV6bC6ZcI1MXxgZf4/s400/Roommate+Date+Night+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674728084581132850" border="0" /></a>Caramel apple deluxe? I think so.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUrbwQ5AAt6_ZdhYNEJQnJZloU95WfnjVe_RRx0xiVCV-9qEtG6BxghEb_1IgCuGYmTXX0va63qcqkcwpAksj9RvVVnLTMtUNIGsoxg9Dm48IVqU1RcZ8zsfpD-xuG9iulcME3axyh0GMO/s1600/Gravestone+Cupcakes+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 370px; height: 277px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUrbwQ5AAt6_ZdhYNEJQnJZloU95WfnjVe_RRx0xiVCV-9qEtG6BxghEb_1IgCuGYmTXX0va63qcqkcwpAksj9RvVVnLTMtUNIGsoxg9Dm48IVqU1RcZ8zsfpD-xuG9iulcME3axyh0GMO/s400/Gravestone+Cupcakes+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674728065120632258" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Treats for my piano student's Halloween Party.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Gravestone cupcakes.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ruvSHLmTk24xBKR-ViVpXW5_cGHrwx5Pnkd-SzvEcR_ho73RxV0FKhOZUxEkzF7KcI0qYpf73CpSiWpLy7qfW4Rhr3kN1l4QVEkBie5M3-6PnIb-4CGD0_6i6KASQRUnlgq8LeL5EaXo/s1600/Donut+Eyeballs+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 372px; height: 356px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6ruvSHLmTk24xBKR-ViVpXW5_cGHrwx5Pnkd-SzvEcR_ho73RxV0FKhOZUxEkzF7KcI0qYpf73CpSiWpLy7qfW4Rhr3kN1l4QVEkBie5M3-6PnIb-4CGD0_6i6KASQRUnlgq8LeL5EaXo/s400/Donut+Eyeballs+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674728065839016210" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Donut-hole eyeballs.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghCitbTzbz_zzhoOXycnCx7KQhJ8zn5XtLfeDkBBuiZrPiqrM5Fa4FDLylnkLUGZGLdPfFchqaJddJ_41cZGGb36y65I_ikKZ_aQqrI6VSTHWVThUAUXU_4Ns3H2qXf1yuuI7z8s-yR1rq/s1600/Pizza+Mummies+cooked.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 372px; height: 278px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghCitbTzbz_zzhoOXycnCx7KQhJ8zn5XtLfeDkBBuiZrPiqrM5Fa4FDLylnkLUGZGLdPfFchqaJddJ_41cZGGb36y65I_ikKZ_aQqrI6VSTHWVThUAUXU_4Ns3H2qXf1yuuI7z8s-yR1rq/s400/Pizza+Mummies+cooked.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674728079445488482" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Mummy pizzas.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJgCS7JzMwQjhkziPmn40JCLxwdFTpnOPK9ihawHnhuRMEgqcdt4mlGZgpoOcV6kkFkZ8D00Rdni5XO0rH6wL-2DGEG1ZmHEraZic24eFwiikkBDXHnaEfWf7TEZEzbnwYrwtM7KYaaHqI/s1600/Frightmares+3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 370px; height: 276px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJgCS7JzMwQjhkziPmn40JCLxwdFTpnOPK9ihawHnhuRMEgqcdt4mlGZgpoOcV6kkFkZ8D00Rdni5XO0rH6wL-2DGEG1ZmHEraZic24eFwiikkBDXHnaEfWf7TEZEzbnwYrwtM7KYaaHqI/s400/Frightmares+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674728455934697426" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Frightmares at Lagoon!<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBHU0_PVKThf0XzYbpWy9ScXo2hEvnW57rgTFYHVIcbtpdNCPg0NoFjvie0S-qGKFKDKESK5BZI2XyrbmUS9oWCP5YrrBvUNYM_OTrPkFrj8X93VPARX4KGA2rC628uXhm2zmblWkCz1nh/s1600/The+Howl+1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 369px; height: 290px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBHU0_PVKThf0XzYbpWy9ScXo2hEvnW57rgTFYHVIcbtpdNCPg0NoFjvie0S-qGKFKDKESK5BZI2XyrbmUS9oWCP5YrrBvUNYM_OTrPkFrj8X93VPARX4KGA2rC628uXhm2zmblWkCz1nh/s400/The+Howl+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674728098784388738" border="0" /></a>Rylee and myself getting ready for the Howl.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicQ7dSlxAhRBlf39WyJV6HdxY7Z2AdvQFbQf2y6m9l4zpvO1oGr1AslCdNHKGop-9SEpkqOyPoChsg45dIrEBnnpnu8d8N16GpTYOSuG9x1xpFEmyOCXGUzlTS4nbA-rA30TZLcERXfb4p/s1600/The+Howl+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 217px; height: 378px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicQ7dSlxAhRBlf39WyJV6HdxY7Z2AdvQFbQf2y6m9l4zpvO1oGr1AslCdNHKGop-9SEpkqOyPoChsg45dIrEBnnpnu8d8N16GpTYOSuG9x1xpFEmyOCXGUzlTS4nbA-rA30TZLcERXfb4p/s400/The+Howl+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674728440021486242" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Nerrrrrds.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmj2ruH7MHX4zwfpZgQr9Jpu0K4j3kKiG8dlxUAGih97wElJJMuoQl-fmntwpRFzqfPloRJtqMapXJgcJiOG3YDMjqYVNbvFX_RO7EU0H2Jl-5Jhwc0hggl8m2ETThenTZr85Kb6OH73D/s1600/The+Howl+6.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 367px; height: 277px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwmj2ruH7MHX4zwfpZgQr9Jpu0K4j3kKiG8dlxUAGih97wElJJMuoQl-fmntwpRFzqfPloRJtqMapXJgcJiOG3YDMjqYVNbvFX_RO7EU0H2Jl-5Jhwc0hggl8m2ETThenTZr85Kb6OH73D/s400/The+Howl+6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674728450270654114" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Such a fun way to spend Halloween.<br /></div><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Thanksgiving</span><br /><br />Alright, so I understand that Thanksgiving has not come yet. Hence all of the "thankful" posts. But, the fun November times have already begun. I will definitely blog about Thanksgiving Day, but let me share what has already been happening this month. My roommates do a "Roommate Date Night" every month. It's a great tradition that gets us girls asking boys out...we like to give the guys a little break. :) So each month we have a theme and since it is the month of Thanksgiving, we decided to make that our theme. So last night, we had a great night full of pizza, crafts, ph'zookies, laughter, chatter, and Pocahontas. My excitement for turkey, family and football is like ten times greater now because of last night...<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ4DjGSXfO6uJe3hOzRfasQ1dR7b1lZqpeTNgzC245Bb6EoyOkKoD2Z5tdonoVSY7zhL3lw_-acEGbs-8u4_FoRF4NNPbGygAM0MqaYZqc_H_GwKQQFHktqOfLFL-8dJ2y3GhJCn6p0rQr/s1600/Thanksgiving+RDN+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 367px; height: 275px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ4DjGSXfO6uJe3hOzRfasQ1dR7b1lZqpeTNgzC245Bb6EoyOkKoD2Z5tdonoVSY7zhL3lw_-acEGbs-8u4_FoRF4NNPbGygAM0MqaYZqc_H_GwKQQFHktqOfLFL-8dJ2y3GhJCn6p0rQr/s400/Thanksgiving+RDN+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674732493816247522" border="0" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;">A few of us preparing to make our Indian headdresses.<br /></span></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiDuGKruGD0OHD6P_tF29C1U6wd24dS65MmDpXilMZuWKfZzt429nRfR9NQSg6KEB2MXXBI7s8rZHGaVWXJqjPI-ZYGzGLIsohWgjITgWefqAj1vXmocMf6YFhmuQisThKISL_oE39UYrB/s1600/Thanksgiving+RDN+9.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 255px; height: 361px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiDuGKruGD0OHD6P_tF29C1U6wd24dS65MmDpXilMZuWKfZzt429nRfR9NQSg6KEB2MXXBI7s8rZHGaVWXJqjPI-ZYGzGLIsohWgjITgWefqAj1vXmocMf6YFhmuQisThKISL_oE39UYrB/s400/Thanksgiving+RDN+9.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674732494868227490" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:100%;">Me and my date Milo.<br />Aka: "Rushing River" and "Buff Warrior"<br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSB35j4P9o1NryfjbG2JlnlKTjwSJ22aRpfXxP5fRxSIsiIuC0pj5ZttgR2J2CK4eGnuJod6r7DkCvpaI9idU4v8yNZ6ShEhM2VOo63wLF2eu79Gr98HjwDZmkySFiMIh2Wp-wpcduQs4i/s1600/Thanksgiving+RDN.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 369px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSB35j4P9o1NryfjbG2JlnlKTjwSJ22aRpfXxP5fRxSIsiIuC0pj5ZttgR2J2CK4eGnuJod6r7DkCvpaI9idU4v8yNZ6ShEhM2VOo63wLF2eu79Gr98HjwDZmkySFiMIh2Wp-wpcduQs4i/s400/Thanksgiving+RDN.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674732529547690978" border="0" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;">The whole group<br /></span></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP7rABv9xIVLijxC9iX3K0vEG-uZwkS5wew4EQM81Wu-h0GnHgN2TrJzrPKGrOz71lsLvkgZ1VYU8otJJiwhjCiFA5BXfpYCDMoWkFV-EBKcMMCM7gpT4qWVnYBP5nhd1iogUwON9E8JBS/s1600/Thanksgiving+RDN+15.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 368px; height: 371px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhP7rABv9xIVLijxC9iX3K0vEG-uZwkS5wew4EQM81Wu-h0GnHgN2TrJzrPKGrOz71lsLvkgZ1VYU8otJJiwhjCiFA5BXfpYCDMoWkFV-EBKcMMCM7gpT4qWVnYBP5nhd1iogUwON9E8JBS/s400/Thanksgiving+RDN+15.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674732520923178866" border="0" /></a></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:100%;">Our turkey! So cheesy and childish as this sounds, we decorated hands to make the turkey feathers. But, let me tell you, everyone LOVED it.<br /></span></div><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRE8qspy9uQrR48JgCwn7MqnCOn0FKfeZjkmvAQVBO5__ArjfA9SGMOauCDLli_ETLkhrqbPvPWOvakISkKr_AwnXSxLKnl9y02Jf_-rXueRBRi6LSDG2PXg5yXpx0BnWuvOewYwfLWvPb/s1600/Thanksgiving+RDN+13.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 275px; height: 367px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRE8qspy9uQrR48JgCwn7MqnCOn0FKfeZjkmvAQVBO5__ArjfA9SGMOauCDLli_ETLkhrqbPvPWOvakISkKr_AwnXSxLKnl9y02Jf_-rXueRBRi6LSDG2PXg5yXpx0BnWuvOewYwfLWvPb/s400/Thanksgiving+RDN+13.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5674732513853030962" border="0" /></a></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;">Needless to say, holidays are a joyous time for many reasons. I am looking forward to spending time with those that I love during the upcoming weeks. My goal this holiday season (and this whole next year) is to try and see the beauty of the holidays through the eyes of a child. They have such a pure and innocent excitement. They truly believe in holidays. The acappella group <a href="http://eclipsesingers.com/wp/home/"><span style="font-style: italic;">Eclipse</span></a> says it beautifully in the song </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">"Christmas as a Child"</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"> from their new Christmas album...<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" >I remember a place where I could sit for a while,<br />When life was more simple and love was a smile.<br />The reindeer were magic and snowmen were real.<br />I'd be there forever cause time still stood still.<br /><br />That was Christmas where magic and memories run wild,</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" >I'll return to that place where the stars brush my face</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" >And once again spend Christmas as a child.<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"></span></span><span style="font-size:130%;">I want to always believe in the magic that each holiday possesses.<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">I want to see all holidays through a child's eyes.</span><br /></div></div></div></div></div></div><span class="body"></span>Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-21892214124944166242011-11-06T23:24:00.000-07:002011-11-06T23:29:53.176-07:00Giving thanks for...I cannot believe that it has been approximately two and a half months since I have blogged. I am the WORST! I have been itching to write again. And not because anyone really reads my blog, but just because I love to do it. And have missed it terribly. So I am making it a goal to try to blog at least once a week, if not a little more. We'll see how well this goal goes.<br />
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Halloween has come and gone and Christmas is pretty much here (at least the retail world would make you think that). And that little holiday that is tucked in the middle...yeah, that one we know as Thanksgiving...is often looked over. So this month I am going to post about things that I am thankful for while catching up on the past two months of my life. A lot has been going on!<br />
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To start off my "Giving Thanks" posts, I want to give thanks for my <span style="font-size: large;">home</span>.<br />
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Dorthy said it best when she clicked her sparkly red heels and said "there's no place like home." I'm sure that Kansas is a real nice place, but I would argue with her that my home is better than hers. But just recently, my home has changed locations a little bit. Logan is and always will be home, but I finally moved out this semester. So in August, I packed up all of my belongings and moved to an apartment with five other incredible young ladies. And it has been the best decision. Let me show a few pictures of my new humble abode...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8GCWdqWZe4BvaBBIIFE-HN47ZKdUBHYDqpugxni8LqGe2EuwIgNk2BhOFalA3XT47t9bYdBEwQW232o-FuJnhrbtBX3y49XTxU6B1RBrrf-qj2x2tFQRey3sQyS-lThjtBrsuWBrvpfmL/s1600/Apartment--Megan2.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672110506019128706" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8GCWdqWZe4BvaBBIIFE-HN47ZKdUBHYDqpugxni8LqGe2EuwIgNk2BhOFalA3XT47t9bYdBEwQW232o-FuJnhrbtBX3y49XTxU6B1RBrrf-qj2x2tFQRey3sQyS-lThjtBrsuWBrvpfmL/s400/Apartment--Megan2.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 293px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 348px;" /></a><span style="font-size: small;">My favorite place in my home. My little bed.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL4htabjj461ptDlMP9_ATBkdpu4YcYgvWBaRDBxL7wtfEQk9bgkiWLkQjObYd85OB6lNAtlk6O5u5NOz3-K359-eIPnmByEn6ZflJPHIkUF0-O2vcpiw_Ou_xhks3L1zFk-2D8wsBHi9e/s1600/Apartment--Megan+and+Hill+room.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672110501685196482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgL4htabjj461ptDlMP9_ATBkdpu4YcYgvWBaRDBxL7wtfEQk9bgkiWLkQjObYd85OB6lNAtlk6O5u5NOz3-K359-eIPnmByEn6ZflJPHIkUF0-O2vcpiw_Ou_xhks3L1zFk-2D8wsBHi9e/s400/Apartment--Megan+and+Hill+room.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 263px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 349px;" /></a><span style="font-size: small;">Mine and Hillary's bedroom.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXRW7wFeIkbPt8OKVLsfUChyPqBn3K3xADU7vR50dIN72zbda5FhaHPDGgr1gxSCIIjt4NTKVvlArVQ5SBtr9Suwfx34epmMRaCUy0A21NVBItGZY-wlC4WI1DRsueWOxn2RuK_wm26fpt/s1600/Apartment--Desk.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672109535899809874" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXRW7wFeIkbPt8OKVLsfUChyPqBn3K3xADU7vR50dIN72zbda5FhaHPDGgr1gxSCIIjt4NTKVvlArVQ5SBtr9Suwfx34epmMRaCUy0A21NVBItGZY-wlC4WI1DRsueWOxn2RuK_wm26fpt/s400/Apartment--Desk.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 374px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 273px;" /></a><span style="font-size: small;">Hill's dad made this desk for us. Lots of studying has taken place here.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbykZo9euV8G0TL5BTv7eXDOrjfLm_dgKKyBRyemBKTqITT3UMzQ-xpju5VYoC8HoTh96j7mZ8SgklZnUvl5u2WV_2C4Au1k0ugkUbtVIMr1toNb06TK5rz5S6bVMydejXP3co8xaQCVrG/s1600/Apartment--Closet.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672114500291362722" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbykZo9euV8G0TL5BTv7eXDOrjfLm_dgKKyBRyemBKTqITT3UMzQ-xpju5VYoC8HoTh96j7mZ8SgklZnUvl5u2WV_2C4Au1k0ugkUbtVIMr1toNb06TK5rz5S6bVMydejXP3co8xaQCVrG/s400/Apartment--Closet.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 364px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 273px;" /></a><span style="font-size: small;">I love this closet. So much space!</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTrW0OnBc-L4Rg_zUn3pWV5VaSmBvqydCr0yhmu3WiB4lqq_cRvVQvVXsdIXaMDV0G1CbhletE6-g0pYym9-RNMDM8PL_Vs2HCMpVIwuE6hscg2D8TESZgHg9RNwwY_6MdoBmCB-iv3-dx/s1600/Bathroom.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672110516794767538" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTrW0OnBc-L4Rg_zUn3pWV5VaSmBvqydCr0yhmu3WiB4lqq_cRvVQvVXsdIXaMDV0G1CbhletE6-g0pYym9-RNMDM8PL_Vs2HCMpVIwuE6hscg2D8TESZgHg9RNwwY_6MdoBmCB-iv3-dx/s400/Bathroom.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 367px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 275px;" /></a><span style="font-size: small;">Our bathroom.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6KCF96exu-5ITXv19z59AbMDCDzsCETvbneGIa-JyMuR5Cwuvjwshj8ayTxFAyWB1nYaJnwtgilxsSrEG-94qpASG5IcdOWzHAsHVAcE3QbakODByt82wvfoJh_UB-s-mOWITtHD_9gV_/s1600/Apartment--Kitchen%252CDining.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672109544685583058" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6KCF96exu-5ITXv19z59AbMDCDzsCETvbneGIa-JyMuR5Cwuvjwshj8ayTxFAyWB1nYaJnwtgilxsSrEG-94qpASG5IcdOWzHAsHVAcE3QbakODByt82wvfoJh_UB-s-mOWITtHD_9gV_/s400/Apartment--Kitchen%252CDining.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 267px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 361px;" /></a><span style="font-size: small;">The kitchen and dining room.</span></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLjynT4t8UyqfRrUXDIoIwYu9qO0e0ljQ5WPSLDZKmuRheoANjXnJ-Twk6yN_71NMSxaT_qPUASdxuJD8DLUTAqh4WrhJuRDaueC-mQWa-fA-FFC5dp8LasPOlFeXahLgbzBpf8itPqeCX/s1600/Apartment--Living+Room.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672109551852674018" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLjynT4t8UyqfRrUXDIoIwYu9qO0e0ljQ5WPSLDZKmuRheoANjXnJ-Twk6yN_71NMSxaT_qPUASdxuJD8DLUTAqh4WrhJuRDaueC-mQWa-fA-FFC5dp8LasPOlFeXahLgbzBpf8itPqeCX/s400/Apartment--Living+Room.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 290px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 362px;" /></a><span style="font-size: small;">Our family room, including the lovely Justin Bieber poster.</span><br />
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I love being moved out. Don't get me wrong, my family is great and my parent's house is always going to feel like home, but my home is here now. My little brother has even taken over my room and bed at my parent's house. But part of what makes this little apartment of mine a home are the awesome girls that I live with. Hillary, Rylee, Larissa (Lars), Ashlie, and Chelsea are the five greatest roommates I could have ever asked for. We have so much fun together. They are some of my closest friends now and I don't even remember what life was like before I met them. So yes, I understand that this sounds like the cheesy, pathetic testimonies in church when some chick starts crying and blurting out that "my roommates are the best ever. They complete my life!" But seriously, minus the tears and over-the-top emotion that the chick in church displays, I feel that way about my roommates. They really are great. And super cute! Don't believe me? Take a look...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCy162AvSYXpQBZNx0Vr6t_tjioMKEgdKsRVN2wRYUF7lJdoUXEk41LMS7qqxHv4yxNyIBWPVR8VI2XG0R-cidF7eTYAHeLaxB8_MMFGanu2clYQZ53BHFwGzGX6ZzHkkm0qBR3JXIyMRi/s1600/Roommate+dinner.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672119206853303938" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCy162AvSYXpQBZNx0Vr6t_tjioMKEgdKsRVN2wRYUF7lJdoUXEk41LMS7qqxHv4yxNyIBWPVR8VI2XG0R-cidF7eTYAHeLaxB8_MMFGanu2clYQZ53BHFwGzGX6ZzHkkm0qBR3JXIyMRi/s400/Roommate+dinner.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 232px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 375px;" /></a><span style="font-size: small;">Our first roommate dinner. The beginning of a tradition.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg67xpylLRIbuPJ0Mn4h2HNMgL3WDl0a5ZBstkADe5QpD-afY2pIAbuAZtSMxAHWlKDsjzkYM5gDPpTMw15yr-slzyDo8k1SJ9xCVx9ZZ1gfVH_U5LZ1iwY_kcOlkGEqBVRLeV57pr93_Ed/s1600/Church+Roomies.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672120106792923490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg67xpylLRIbuPJ0Mn4h2HNMgL3WDl0a5ZBstkADe5QpD-afY2pIAbuAZtSMxAHWlKDsjzkYM5gDPpTMw15yr-slzyDo8k1SJ9xCVx9ZZ1gfVH_U5LZ1iwY_kcOlkGEqBVRLeV57pr93_Ed/s400/Church+Roomies.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 296px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 386px;" /></a><span style="font-size: small;">A few of us before church.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0dY1on7WzZcdT9ERCluxknNBefqn9FiIF1JJojsTsQsS-wywqFhK3IqeRHsd8oc5KzLxt_VjDuSpTOJz-a-9eLdnFNgtq77qUG1RUHIZLt-fgV9gAyb_rEKhhMCOK2dAcyXgtDZd-Dtzz/s1600/USU+game+2+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672120101567588402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0dY1on7WzZcdT9ERCluxknNBefqn9FiIF1JJojsTsQsS-wywqFhK3IqeRHsd8oc5KzLxt_VjDuSpTOJz-a-9eLdnFNgtq77qUG1RUHIZLt-fgV9gAyb_rEKhhMCOK2dAcyXgtDZd-Dtzz/s400/USU+game+2+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 290px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 387px;" /></a><span style="font-size: small;">Cheering on our Aggies at the first football game.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWZx5AdTOS_oTv59jpdDSeQeSw9SWrlglSlS1t3z3R_cbfxTA6LN81Gw_3kSvj6Xf3iwzB4IEFoi2L7XxvqAFJT0mDHjXTd6ckhzozgtBy2M6Mhd9o81Sv2A87CgBJzf0dy1LjvNpfKmsI/s1600/Relief+Society+Meeting+2+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672119178790748514" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWZx5AdTOS_oTv59jpdDSeQeSw9SWrlglSlS1t3z3R_cbfxTA6LN81Gw_3kSvj6Xf3iwzB4IEFoi2L7XxvqAFJT0mDHjXTd6ckhzozgtBy2M6Mhd9o81Sv2A87CgBJzf0dy1LjvNpfKmsI/s400/Relief+Society+Meeting+2+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 351px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 264px;" /></a><span style="font-size: small;">With Chels and Rylee at the General Relief Society Meeting in Salt Lake.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUbJgUpiFbPzkyD9rMZW8A5qIJrGYLYd9L_YJLWcYP3O5yhvJ8Ou49gnjIiQWw4tN0HrylEYpGpKpuQiJN_mtJT4n0oZkIjZHVAK1uLiF2LRntkov4-9swHEYcEZsQ5XiTGyDORaI5erj9/s1600/80%2527s+Dance+3+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672120120390176914" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUbJgUpiFbPzkyD9rMZW8A5qIJrGYLYd9L_YJLWcYP3O5yhvJ8Ou49gnjIiQWw4tN0HrylEYpGpKpuQiJN_mtJT4n0oZkIjZHVAK1uLiF2LRntkov4-9swHEYcEZsQ5XiTGyDORaI5erj9/s400/80%2527s+Dance+3+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 369px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 260px;" /></a><span style="font-size: small;">Hillary, my room roommate and best buddy. As you can tell :)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRohpVl5IWnkanducuiSmP_NykWZ-xbgfI_wxPaejOXC7eHIFLuZOqsUZWoPrpPgN2OyQjN2zdo6JeNKbgJxbJd3ApXuXHWKBTiWzDNyJOxTHwZVBAGEl6kVH531fA-ENLX1-QeCO3Wt-_/s1600/Chelsea%2527s+b-day+1.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5672119172523753762" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRohpVl5IWnkanducuiSmP_NykWZ-xbgfI_wxPaejOXC7eHIFLuZOqsUZWoPrpPgN2OyQjN2zdo6JeNKbgJxbJd3ApXuXHWKBTiWzDNyJOxTHwZVBAGEl6kVH531fA-ENLX1-QeCO3Wt-_/s400/Chelsea%2527s+b-day+1.jpg" style="cursor: pointer; display: block; height: 271px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 375px;" /></a><span style="font-size: small;">At dinner for Chelsea's birthday.</span><br />
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I have learned a lot in moving out and living on my own. If anything, it has made me be more appreciative of so many things. I take a lot for granted. I have learned that:<br />
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1. My parents are the two greatest people in my life. They have done so much for me.<br />
2. Cooking meals takes a lot more time than I have. So soup and cereal are my daily diet. I love my mom's home cooked meals more than ever.<br />
3. Parking my car in the garage was the best. I miss covered parking!<br />
4. I am more of a clean freak than I was when I lived at home. I have only missed one day of making my bed. Not too shabby! My mom would love to hear that...<br />
5. If I wrote everything I have learned, my list would be far too long.<br />
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Perhaps the most important thing I have learned in my moving out is that of depending on my Savior, Jesus Christ. I feel like I have depended on Him more and developed a deeper relationship with Him than when I was at home. I know that He loves me and has a plan for me. Sometimes I wish that I could have a detailed blue-print of that plan...gosh, that would make life a whole lot easier. But part of the beautiful journey is learning to trust in Him and have faith that as long as we are faithful, we will be blessed. He has promised that.<br />
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I am grateful for my home. And I am grateful for the knowledge of where my home can one day be. And those that I love and care about will be those who surround me if I live my life worthy of that eternal blessing.<br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;">There is no place like home.</span></div>
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</div>Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-23607993798857919312011-08-25T14:39:00.030-06:002011-08-25T17:50:06.411-06:00Edify me, please...Last week I had the most incredible time attending BYU Education Week. I know, I know...I did say BYU. Yes, I spent a whole week down in Utah County--specifically on the BYU campus. As a true-blue Aggie fan, some might be ashamed or embarrassed to admit it, but I will announce that fact proudly. I had the best time down in the infamous Provo, Utah. And after spending a week at BYU, I didn't come home engaged either :) haha.
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Rf754LzrSwuHiDbhCnTumQGlSPoQbBjeCmDm4bmfebuMA-nORXkWtpck8AUj-ci7Wctd_PoA_KQvNd8BJXe0kP_nlvQhntDJ65F-Y4QuKzamuP-2E4bt0KWJyzzbBrDvy-4-d1VAeM0e/s1600/Education+Week.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 323px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3Rf754LzrSwuHiDbhCnTumQGlSPoQbBjeCmDm4bmfebuMA-nORXkWtpck8AUj-ci7Wctd_PoA_KQvNd8BJXe0kP_nlvQhntDJ65F-Y4QuKzamuP-2E4bt0KWJyzzbBrDvy-4-d1VAeM0e/s400/Education+Week.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644906775279106306" border="0" /></a>
<br />So what is Education Week? When I first heard of it, I automatically assumed it was some kind of workshop for future/current/past educators. But I was very wrong. In a simple quick explanation, Education Week is a week full of learning. Different classes, taught on a plethora of subjects, are offered and literally you just sit in class and listen to lectures. Boring? You might think that, but it was the farthest thing from boring. Beautiful and inspiring words and information were being poured into my mind and and even more, in my heart. It was amazing!
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<br />The theme for Education Week 2011 was<span style="font-style: italic;"> "That All May Be Edified" (D&C 88:122)</span>. The dictionary definition for edify is "to instruct or improve (someone) morally or intellectually." Knowing this was the theme, I desired to<span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span></span><span style="font-weight: bold;">improve</span> my mind [through top notch <span style="font-weight: bold;">instruction</span>] and to gain some new light and knowledge that I could apply in my life. <span style="font-size:130%;">
<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Learning is wonderful if the learning brings change.</span>
<br /></div>It is one thing to hear neat things, yet a completely different thing to take those neat things and apply them to make yourself a better and more Christ-like person.
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ6IduBYx4lsfNcERRuoOFxze0BhpGxnWOXUGW79R0EMGM-vQssITcdhq81U_Ej0fSb27UWDLJTUWEz-1SfrKE7dgtp8AmilPM6Zk8lZqtShyphenhyphen8UXocG_mlLV8eXjaSsMR__dTqWk01or2v/s1600/catalog.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 261px; height: 351px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ6IduBYx4lsfNcERRuoOFxze0BhpGxnWOXUGW79R0EMGM-vQssITcdhq81U_Ej0fSb27UWDLJTUWEz-1SfrKE7dgtp8AmilPM6Zk8lZqtShyphenhyphen8UXocG_mlLV8eXjaSsMR__dTqWk01or2v/s400/catalog.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644907424920690498" border="0" /></a>
<br />So how do I sum up a week of beauty? Because literally beauty is the only word that I can think of to describe how I felt about the week. I could make a whole blog post about one single class. Seriously. But that would result in approximately over 20 posts....holy smokes. I would even be sick of reading that. So I will condense each day with a brief outline and some killer quotes from the classes of the day.
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<br /><span style="font-size:130%;"> <span style="font-style: italic;">Moments of Monday</span></span>
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<br />Monday started off a little rocky. Let's be honest. First: we had to park miles (or at least it felt like miles) away from campus. Who knew that parking would be a joke? Well, we probably should have figured that considering 20,000 people were there for the week. Second: the class we were trying to get into was completely full. As in we couldn't even find two single seats. But after that, things went uphill. We took some awesome afternoon classes on based off of the Lectures on Faith, taught by <a href="http://deseretbook.com/auth/173/David_A_Christensen">David A. Christensen</a>.
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<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">"You are as righteous as your faith is strong. Faith is what drives our righteousness on a daily basis."
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<br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;">"Faith is absolute power. It is the principle power existing in God."
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<br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;">"Human testimony is the basis of faith that there is a God."</span><span style="font-size:85%;">
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<br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;">"To come to know God is what faith is all about."</span>
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<br />Monday night, I went with my mom, Brad, and Whit (who happened to be in Provo that weekend. Best surprise ever!) to the oh-so-delicious Brick Oven. I had never been there before so it was fun to try something new. It came with high recommendations and I was not disappointed one bit.
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<br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Treasures from Tuesday</span></span>
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<br />Tuesday began great. We went to a few different classes, including the weekly devotional by Elder Jay E. Jensen. You know that feeling when you are in a college class and the teachers are flying through slides and you are doing everything in your power to write down all of the information. But just as you begin writing a sentence, the next sentence is being said. Then the next, and the next, and finally, you don't even remember the original sentence. Yep, that's how my whole day was. There was so many good quotes that I wanted to write them all, but it was just impossible. So here are some favorites:
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<br />"The Lord can take your desire and remove thoughts or images form your mind that you cannot take yourself." -<a href="http://kevinhinckley.com/">Kevin Hinkley</a>
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<br />"Being a just person is to be righteous or to conform to the words of God." -<a href="http://www.gapages.com/jenseje1.htm">Jay E. Jensen</a>
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<br />"A talking head in a classroom setting is the worst kind of teaching. Teachers and listeners must create a climate that the Spirit can enter, uplift, and edify." -Jay E. Jensen
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<br />"The Lord uses the desire and abilities of people to create and inspire through music. Immerse yourselves in music that HAS A GOOD MESSAGE." -<a href="http://www.marvingoldstein.com/">Marvin Goldstein</a>
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<br />"The hymns are prayers. If you choose to not sing, you are refusing to pray." -Marvin Goldstein
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<br />"Showing friendliness and love (attention) can make more of a difference than we might know. If we show a little bit of love to someone, it becomes real. We will genuinely feel love for those people." -<a href="http://deseretbook.com/auth/663/Randal_Wright">Randal A. Wright</a>
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<br />"There is no earthly force greater than the divine power within women to accomplish and do the things we do." -<a href="http://www.barbarabjones.com/">Barbara Barrington Jones</a>
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<br />"If Satan can jam the channels between you and the Father, then he can make progress on your destruction. Prayer is our LIFE LINE to God. We cannot let Satan win." -Barbara Barrington Jones
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<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;">Tuesday night we went to a community production of Aida performed at the De Jong Concert Hall. The music from that show is pretty bomb.com. The group did a nice little job putting the show on too. Here is a clip from the Broadway production of Aida...what I would give to have seen that one :)
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<br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Slight disclaimer:
<br />This song is awesome! It's probably not the most entertaining scene ever, and heck, they just might get a little friendly, but just listen to the voices. They are unreal.</span>
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<br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzmstqqnAE01SqCe3XA6VRPe31xl6_j0ZAQ5bgsYJxMClz5ey_K96gTDaZYNabtTHR9dqg_pVa7w3OkO_9NpQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>
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<br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:130%;" >Wednesday's Words of Wisdom</span>
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<br /><span style="font-size:100%;">My favorite class (or at least in the top 3) of the week was the "one-day special" for Young Single Adults offered on Wednesday morning. I'll give you one guessas to what the top was about. Yep. Marriage. Go figure. And call me a total nut job for even going to the class, but it was awesome! It was entitled "One of the Most Important Decisions You Will Ever Make: Whom You Will Marry." Well, if you ask me, it isn't one of the most important deciison but THE most important decision. Hi, we're talking eternity here! <a href="http://psychology.byu.edu/Pages/braithwaite.aspx">Scott R. Braithwaite</a>, a [young] psychology professor from BYU taught the course, and he was fantastic! It was his first year at Education Week and he was great. He emphasized showing legitimate statistics along with quotes from the brethren on carious apsects of the whole dating/marriage thing. Let me show you:</span>
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mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal;"><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-Times New Roman"font-family:";font-size:12.0pt;" ></span><span style="font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"; mso-fareast-Times New Roman"font-family:";font-size:10.0pt;" ><span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:85%;">"Marry the right person in the right place by the right authority." -Bruce R. McConkie
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<br />"We can predict 94% accuracy if a marriage will fail or succeed."
<br />
<br />Birds of a Feather or Opposites Attract? "Difficulties and hazards are increased when backgrounds are different." So the correct answer? BIRDS OF A FEATHER!
<br />
<br />"The more education, the more stable the marriage. Marriages where women are more educated than the husband are more likely to end in divorce."
<br />
<br />"Shorter periods of acquaintance and/or courtship are more likely to end in marital dysfunction... Don't get married too soon, don't get married too late."
<br />
<br /><b>"Single Best Predictor? Negative Patterns of communication</b><i>."
<br />
<br /></i>"Choose who you love and love who you choose. I choose you. I will continue to choose you."
<br />
<br />"Soul Mates? I do not believe in predestined love." -Boyd K. Packer
<br />
<br />"Both people must be willing to pay the price for a successful marriage." -Spencer W. Kimball
<br />
<br />"Be the person you want to marry. Know yourself well."
<br />
<br />"There's a fine balance between agency and inspiration. Revelation in 95% hard work." -Bruce R. McConkie
<br />
<br />What is love? "It is not just a feeling. That <i>feeling</i> will come and go."
<br />
<br />"The decision may be gradual in our minds, not all at once. Line upon line, precept upon precept, with small simple assurances that they are a remarkable and spiritual child of God." -David A. Bednar
<br />
<br />Nurture your marriage. "Love is like a flower--it needs constant feeding. It can't be expected to last forever without constant work and care."</span>
<br /><span style="font-size:78%;"> </span>
<br /></span><span style=" Times New Roman","serif";font-family:";font-size:12pt;" ></span></p>Ok, so maybe I went a little overboard on the marriage talk, but it was good! Just saying...
<br />We attended some good classes afterwards that dealt a lot with addictions. We didn't meant to go to them, but ended up there. However, I learned so much in those classes. Addiction is something that everyone can struggle with. And just because some isn't an "addict" doesn't mean they aren't struggling with addictive behaviors. Of course, the professors have to jab in some jokes about dating here and there, despite their teaching subject, so my favorite silly quote from the afternoon was this:
<br />
<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">"Boys are looking at girls, girls are asking what their major is."</span>
<br />Possible truth to this statement? :) haha.
<br /></div><p class="MsoNormal"> </p><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB6S-5Di3gW-AQT4l2q3ruB7gtorUIB0HVqYkWIx7HRoJgD0WMSUlzB9ZF4CnJlKC-fMM-woFDSzXawt1nR5PYX43ltq1Qc_7xna_3CITAS3x_cNUhRYNXycrkV_6jRpVp0okuNKhDAgW8/s1600/Education+Week.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 370px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB6S-5Di3gW-AQT4l2q3ruB7gtorUIB0HVqYkWIx7HRoJgD0WMSUlzB9ZF4CnJlKC-fMM-woFDSzXawt1nR5PYX43ltq1Qc_7xna_3CITAS3x_cNUhRYNXycrkV_6jRpVp0okuNKhDAgW8/s400/Education+Week.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644938189337268114" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Sitting in classes with my mom.</span>
<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /><div style="text-align: left;">That night I had a show up at Pickleville, so my friend Brad and I drove back up to Bear Lake and back that night. 6 hours of driving, folks! That's 6 more hours than I would ever like to spend in a car. But the show was fun, and with some good company, 6 hours can seem a lot faster.
<br /><span style="font-size:130%;">
<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Thoughts from Thursday</span></span>
<br />
<br />Thursday was amazing. The classes we attended were definitely meatier. There was a lot of deep doctrine we learned about, including women of the church, covenants, media influences and the Atonement. My mind was seriously edified this day!
<br />
<br /><span style="font-size:85%;">"Women of Deseret became to speak up and speak out. We can see their influence in the history of the church." -<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Susan_Easton_Black">Susan Easton Black</a>
<br />
<br />"God will never force us into making a covenant." -<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victor_L._Ludlow">Victor L. Ludlow</a>
<br />
<br />"It is not just what we experience in this life, but what we do with the experience. It is <span style="font-style: italic;">how we react</span>." -Victor L. Ludlow
<br />
<br />"The media is not the problem. It's how the media is used that is the problem." -Randal A. Wright
<br />
<br />"If you are exposed to something inappropriate it is not your fault. However, if you choose to see and focus on it, that is different." -Randal A. Wright
<br />
<br />"Certain things are expected with certain kinds of music. Bad music will trump good parenting." -Randal A. Wright
<br /></span>
<br /><span style="font-size:85%;">"It is one thing to be willing to die for others and another to be able. Christ was the only one <span style="font-style: italic;">authorized, capable,</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">qualified.</span> The Atonement is infinite and eternal." -<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bradley_R._Wilcox">Brad Wilcox,
<br /></a>
<br />"Why do we believe in Jesus?
<br />-We have the Book of Mormon.
<br />-We have apostles and prophets.
<br />-We have the spirit who assures us we are correct.
<br />-Joseph Smith saw the Father and the Son." -Brad Wilcox
<br />
<br />"The Book of Mormon clarifies and ve</span><span style="font-size:85%;">rifies the Bible." -Brad Wilcox
<br />
<br />"If an experience were not accompanied by the Spirit, we would forget it. The Spirit can reach through the thickest of walls and hardest of hearts." -Brad Wilcox</span>
<br />
<br />Thursday night was great. We ate at Zuppas, which was quoted as the place where you can get "a total chick's kind of meal" aka: soup, salad, sandwiches. I was also introduced to the best liquid I have ever partaken of in my life. <span style="font-style: italic;">Cookies n' Creme</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">chocolate milk. </span>The most flowery and elaborate words couldn't properly describe how awesome this drink was. Thank you BYU creamery for making such a guilty pleasure of mine. Not to mention, the excessive amount of calories that little bottle contains. But I just try really hard not to think of that as I'm drinking it!
<br />
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizZh2kywJdjBVwu-z8jChFVN5xXPwIceHhJSvART-erNDQctBv0vqhT9Hik438is7WHXdRZRV6WInmCIJQow3x8p_mzJg9BvxPaHaZ3hXZOzXyFq6qmSusxBqog385v-4hOBJ0Q8jNQ4yZ/s1600/Cookies+N%2527+Cream.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 193px; height: 255px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizZh2kywJdjBVwu-z8jChFVN5xXPwIceHhJSvART-erNDQctBv0vqhT9Hik438is7WHXdRZRV6WInmCIJQow3x8p_mzJg9BvxPaHaZ3hXZOzXyFq6qmSusxBqog385v-4hOBJ0Q8jNQ4yZ/s400/Cookies+N%2527+Cream.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644940005971914242" border="0" /></a>
<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Friday Farewells</span>
<br />
<br />Friday was the final day of Education Week and perhaps had the most impact. I felt the Spirit so strongly that day.
<br />
<br /><span style="font-size:85%;">"We should concern ourselves with speci</span><span style="font-size:85%;">fic sins, but we must know that sinfulness give rise to sins. Repentance is much more than just stopping the sin. We must experience the change that makes us not even want to do it." -<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_L._Millet">Robert L. Millet</a>
<br />
<br />"We must pray to have no patience with sin, yet infinite patience with sinners, including ourselves." -Robert L. Millet
<br />
<br />"We want a change of character resulting from a change of nature leading to a change of conduct." -Robert L. Millet
<br />
<br />"True repentance isn't just cleaning the bathroom--it's cleaning the whole house." -Robert L. Millet
<br />
<br />"I think I'll be delightful today...it is a</span><span style="font-size:85%;"> choice to feel/be delightful." -<a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Bytheway">John G. Bytheway</a>
<br />
<br />"Treat a man as he is and he will act how he is. Treat a man as he can and should be and he will act as he can and should be." -John G. Bytheway
<br />
<br />"Music is a communication not needed to be articulated to be understood. It can lead us to moments that touch the infinite." -<a href="http://www.jomusic.com/">James Oneil Miner</a>
<br />
<br />"The miracle of the A</span><span style="font-size:85%;">tonement is that we can be TRANSFORMED. One who truly chooses Christ chooses change and to be changed. Come unto Christ and be perfected with (in) Him." -Brad Wilcox
<br />
<br />"Suffering alone is not a change agent. Christ is the change agent. Seeing Him doesn't change us, accepting Him does." -Brad Wilcox</span>
<br /><span style="font-size:85%;">
<br />"If he had continually held my head about the water, would I have ever learned to walk?" -Brad Wilcox</span>
<br />
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT20OvUGluqUNY_2QQkAVLPLC5oDjRoccwC1BswNzuHowUWf8xSR7HIO3HNGPuCLq-Nkb5rnwRwgJduYKyydg5hKSjVIvzma0dQBUJLr60njB0nEBtka2WzB1zwSM0YH50VM-apFQc10n_/s1600/53898-m.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 354px; height: 168px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT20OvUGluqUNY_2QQkAVLPLC5oDjRoccwC1BswNzuHowUWf8xSR7HIO3HNGPuCLq-Nkb5rnwRwgJduYKyydg5hKSjVIvzma0dQBUJLr60njB0nEBtka2WzB1zwSM0YH50VM-apFQc10n_/s400/53898-m.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5644907430420720546" border="0" /></a>
<br />That afternoon after the last class I was shocked that it was all over. I guess the saying is true, "time flies when you're having fun." Don't judge me USU friends, but I didn't want to leave Provo. Taking a week off of reality and having my bucket filled, you could say, was a refreshing break from the regular weekly routine I had been living all summer long. Now, I'll admit that my feet were a little tired from all the walking, my hand was permanently cramped from the never-ending-note-taking, and I was sick of eating out. But it was a delightful week.
<br />
<br />It was lovely to spend time with my mom. She is one ball of energy, excitement, and mild sarcasm, and she is a wonderful woman. It was fun spending time with good friends and strengthening those friendships. I learned a lot about myself this week. I was given good counsel through words of the instructors, quotes from the prophets, advice from a friend, and wisdom from the scriptures. I am so grateful for the opportunity that I had to go. The first of many I hope! Gosh, if I could go back and relive my Education Week, I would, because it truly was a week for "education." Education on so many levels.
<br />
<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">"Appoint among yourselves a teacher, and let not</span><a style="font-style: italic;" id="footnote263" class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/88.122?lang=eng#" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=dc-testament&bookUri=dc&chapterUri=88&noteID=122a&lang=eng"></a><span style="font-style: italic;"> all be spokesmen at once; but let one speak at a time and let all listen unto his sayings, that when all have spoken</span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;"> that all may be edified</span><a style="font-style: italic;" id="footnote264" class="footnote" href="http://lds.org/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/88.122?lang=eng#" rel="/scriptures/chapter/footnote/default.xqy?volumeUri=dc-testament&bookUri=dc&chapterUri=88&noteID=122b&lang=eng"></a><span style="font-style: italic;"> of all, and that every man may have an equal privilege."
<br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;">Doctrine and Covenants 88:122</span></span>
<br /></div></div></div>Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-74644480644168946152011-08-21T21:24:00.022-06:002011-08-21T22:53:15.057-06:00Beautiful Baseball.So sad news...summer is winding down. It's true. But with the close of the summer, new and exciting things are ahead! One of those being football. Football season is gearing up and all those buff players are being whipped into tip-top shape for another great season. Thank you NFL for not being in a lock-out anymore. But before I get too excited for football season, I would like to reminisce a little on that All-American sport, <span style="font-style: italic;">baseball</span>.
<br />
<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0JsZ7xNPgAtfmfSXx60-ZrosMyfzuAOSBXjFuxwz_wi90CC642_OlGq2g1fhxlO1LjXRNfj6aqO4rkR8np9yiQaf0HlDrO0mXr4eTctReqHZPyzxpSHksdBPzDGgRQCT0Fck1OvnbiMh/s1600/baseball_glove-967.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 273px; height: 181px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga0JsZ7xNPgAtfmfSXx60-ZrosMyfzuAOSBXjFuxwz_wi90CC642_OlGq2g1fhxlO1LjXRNfj6aqO4rkR8np9yiQaf0HlDrO0mXr4eTctReqHZPyzxpSHksdBPzDGgRQCT0Fck1OvnbiMh/s400/baseball_glove-967.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643520509583936274" border="0" /></a>
<br />The MLB is still going strong right now, so I guess technically baseball season isn't completely over. But little league/college/high school games...those are long gone. This is the first year in a very long time that my little brothers have not been involved in baseball. Aaron is one heck of a pitcher and Jared is a killer first baseman, but they both decided to hang up the gloves for full time hoop-shooting. It was really interesting to see those little boys (who aren't so little anymore) make a big decision like that. Jared espeically....he played on a competitive team last year and traveled all over for games and tournaments. Call it baseball overload or burn-out? I'm not sure, but the boy didn't want to do it again this year.
<br /><div style="text-align: center;">
<br /><span style="font-size:85%;">A few photos of the boys playing baseball last year.</span>
<br />
<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQGu4qv6pdKUmEU-AlS8lOIKPEnb5X7okF1ST-VgFptAbm3AohX9Fihq163DD1FSNCUWbv-a5-_-YEh5jvGE9dd9nHZu0XgUB86Qh58I-JxiNawbGEDBrXnx7zW02huuk8pQ-7a0lyfi0/s1600/Aaron+pitching+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 248px; height: 318px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsQGu4qv6pdKUmEU-AlS8lOIKPEnb5X7okF1ST-VgFptAbm3AohX9Fihq163DD1FSNCUWbv-a5-_-YEh5jvGE9dd9nHZu0XgUB86Qh58I-JxiNawbGEDBrXnx7zW02huuk8pQ-7a0lyfi0/s400/Aaron+pitching+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643520508108306834" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Aaron pitching.
<br />
<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS8Zad59rxkAVyKJDC7DBSNEKf_Oyi1R_Jyzeh549XqTH7rtCmbIMxud8BdbML5ckaLOxy524NaRWbQp-ktZr3AiybSpvScnr39ymGe69gSm3Cl31z0pMrcHsgWGWeWm8P2tEDJ1yDsdRi/s1600/Jared+baseball+1+%2528b%2526w%2529.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 312px; height: 272px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS8Zad59rxkAVyKJDC7DBSNEKf_Oyi1R_Jyzeh549XqTH7rtCmbIMxud8BdbML5ckaLOxy524NaRWbQp-ktZr3AiybSpvScnr39ymGe69gSm3Cl31z0pMrcHsgWGWeWm8P2tEDJ1yDsdRi/s400/Jared+baseball+1+%2528b%2526w%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643520505778202370" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Jared on first base.</span>
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<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS08_ElM4PttVTn2I-mlb2013688L6ud8kxDm5TKX-n-NsHg3XmF5dMVIkkfVSJ_z_6Hg-HeYM4QT5Fqb3z6WzFKpZbT-xp4natwB8NrZzhTEnZXvfTeY1q0Ml6yRg8Iv6c8-7Z1MJ39-l/s1600/Siblings+at+Jared%2527s+game+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 318px; height: 292px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS08_ElM4PttVTn2I-mlb2013688L6ud8kxDm5TKX-n-NsHg3XmF5dMVIkkfVSJ_z_6Hg-HeYM4QT5Fqb3z6WzFKpZbT-xp4natwB8NrZzhTEnZXvfTeY1q0Ml6yRg8Iv6c8-7Z1MJ39-l/s400/Siblings+at+Jared%2527s+game+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643520498452248770" border="0" /></a>
<br /></div>Many a good memory have been made for them through baseball. I'll admit, I really enjoy going to a baseball game and cheering for the runner to slide into home base for a grand-slam. I haven't been to an MLB game, but one day I will go to one. It's on the bucket list!
<br />
<br />Growing up, I even watched a baseball movie or two.... Here are just a few of my favorites.
<br />
<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style=" font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" >The Sandlot. Such a classic.</span>
<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyNm5kwnCjCRzHjlw7Jtk9h75TiGOLvfaTg31jB69bbi7ab1DXUJTC5fY4WDpDlNms6dEEsU7K4hnhYBWbZ2w' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>
<br />
<br /><span style=" font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" >Angels in the Outfield. I watched this movie a million times when I was young. </span>
<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzXZLuCz47W8cueYo-MAD7VpIYwR3gefwkNEYH6p-zX5Cc_SFxi5cPday4mn-lLeB8Cw2SQtgPJdtGYfl3fiQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>
<br />
<br /><span style=" font-style: italic;font-family:arial;" >The Rookie.Yes, Dennis Quaid is older, but he's an attractive older man.
<br />And what an inspirational story about Jimmy Morris.</span><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzBYXmnwIfUNpXFJVzV_jy3CznS1_-IHgTxB7m8DII913u_hw7rtJU9ul7FIxeSXXBcm4xnJCcBfnfmMYoMeg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>
<br /></div>
<br />So what in the world would possess me to blog about baseball? I mean, granted, I think it's a pretty wonderful sport and has provided some fun summer memories. But my connection to baseball isn't anything extra special or sentimental. However, today I heard a story about baseball that has been on my mind all day long. It goes a little something like this....
<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:85%;">
<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">"At a fundraising dinner for a school that serves learning-disabled children, the father of one of the students delivered a speech that would never be forgotten by all who attended.</span></span> <p style="text-align: left; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">After extolling the school and its dedicated staff, he offered a question: "He cannot understand things as other children do. Where is the natural order of things in my son?" The audience was stilled by the query.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">The father continued. "I believe that when a child like Shay, physically and mentally handicapped comes into the world, an opportunity to realize true human nature presents itself, and it comes, in the way other people treat that child." Then he told the following story:</span></p> <p style="text-align: left; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Shay and his father had walked past a park where some boys Shay knew were playing baseball. Shay asked, "Do you think they'll let me play?" Shay's father knew that most of the boys would not want someone like Shay on their team, but the father also understood that if his son were allowed to play, it would give him a much-needed sense of belonging and some confidence to be accepted by others in spite of his handicaps.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Shay's father approached one of the boys on the field and asked if Shay could play, not expecting much. The boy looked around for guidance and a few boys nodded approval, why not? So he took matters into his own hands and said, "We're losing by six runs and the game is in the eighth inning. I guess he can be on our team and we'll try to put him in to bat in the ninth inning."</span></p> <p style="text-align: left; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Shay struggled over to the team's bench put on a team shirt with a broad smile and his father had a small tear in his eye and warmth in his heart. The boys saw the father's joy at his son being accepted. In the bottom of the eighth inning, Shay's team scored a few runs but was still behind by three. In the top of the ninth inning, Shay put on a glove and played in the right field. Even though no hits came his way, he was obviously ecstatic just to be in the game and on the field, grinning from ear to ear as his father waved to him from the stands.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">In the bottom of the ninth inning, Shay's team scored again. Now, with two outs and the bases loaded, the potential winning run was on base and Shay was scheduled to be next at bat. At this juncture, do they let Shay bat and give away their chance to win the game? </span></p> <p style="text-align: left; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Surprisingly, Shay was given the bat. Everyone knew that a hit was all but impossible 'cause Shay didn't even know how to hold the bat properly, much less connect with the ball. However, as Shay stepped up to the plate, the pitcher, recognizing the other team putting winning aside for this moment in Shay's life, moved in a few steps to lob the ball in softly so Shay could at least be able to make contact.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">The first pitch came and Shay swung clumsily and missed. The pitcher again took a few steps forward to toss the ball softly towards Shay. As the pitch came in, Shay swung at the ball and hit a slow ground ball right back to the pitcher. The game would now be over, but the pitcher picked up the soft grounder and could haveeasily thrown the ball to the first baseman. Shay would have beenout and that would have been the end of the game.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Instead, the pitcher threw the ball right over the head of the first baseman, out of reach of all team-mates. Everyone from the stands and both teams started yelling, "Shay, run to first! Run to first!" Never in his life had Shay ever ran that far but made it to first base. He scampered down the baseline, wide-eyed and startled. Everyone yelled, "Run to second, run to second!" Catching his breath, Shay awkwardly ran towards second, gleaming and struggling to make it to second base.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">By the time Shay rounded towards second base, the right fielder had the ball, the smallest guy on their team, who had a chance to be the hero for his team for the first time. He could have thrown the ball to the second-baseman for the tag, but he understood the pitcher's intentions and he too intentionally threw the ball high and far over the third-baseman's head. Shay ran toward third base deliriously as the runners ahead of him circled the bases toward home.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">All were screaming, "Shay, Shay, Shay, all the Way Shay" Shay reached third base, the opposing shortstop ran to help him and turned him in the direction of third base, and shouted, "Run to third! Shay, run to third" As Shay rounded third, the boys from both teams and those watching were on their feet were screaming, "Shay, run home!" Shay ran to home, stepped on the plate, and was cheered as the hero who hit the "grand slam" and won the game for his team.</span></p> <p style="text-align: left; font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:85%;">"That day," said the father softly with tears now rolling down his face, "The boys from both teams helped bring a piece of true love and humanity into this world." Shay didn't make it to another summer and died that winter, having never forgotten being the hero and making his father so happy and coming home and seeing his mother tearfully embrace her little hero of the day!"</span></p><p style="text-align: left; font-style: italic;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhclmL_tNfNFE5IU6JmB7Vpff0LwC4BLSm5-gA0a4USXMqNy-pPK4wRsDbZs8AEW8sv4K27ld2kuor6dw9G9Obz9xGgKV9prdu1_Ken5rBOhbgSl3M_qG0-sGUCPseplZ0ybYjLB6fK83_n/s1600/kids-baseball-team.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 174px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhclmL_tNfNFE5IU6JmB7Vpff0LwC4BLSm5-gA0a4USXMqNy-pPK4wRsDbZs8AEW8sv4K27ld2kuor6dw9G9Obz9xGgKV9prdu1_Ken5rBOhbgSl3M_qG0-sGUCPseplZ0ybYjLB6fK83_n/s400/kids-baseball-team.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643531541874400290" border="0" /></a></p> This story really touched my heart today. It's not always just about winning and being the best. Let's be honest, often times it's the parents who want the win more than the child. But what a beautiful example of showing Christ-like love. I think that children can teach us adults a lot about service, selflessness, and loving others.
<br />
<br />"Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven."<span style="font-family:georgia;font-size:100%;"> -Matthew 18:3-4</span>
<br />
<br />The General Primary President of the Church, Jean A. Stevens, said this of the youngin's:
<br />
<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">"These precious children of God come to us with believing hearts. They are full of faith and receptive to feelings of the Spirit. They exemplify humility, obedience, and love. They are often the first to love and the first to forgive."</span>
<br />
<br />I cannot think of anyone that I would want to spend day-in and day-out with than sweet children. I guess that's part of why teaching elementary school is so appealing to me. Call me selfish, but I feel like they will be the ones teaching me every day rather than me teaching them. I am honestly looking forward to one day interacting with the little squirts all of the time.
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<br />I hope that I can be like the baseball team in the story. When I meet a "Shay" in my own life, I hope that I can be open and loving enough to realize the best thing to do. I know that by living a life that would be pleasing to God, I will be prepared and in-tune to show that love and help to bless the lives of others. I hope to radiate that light and love of Christ that is found in a child. So when those screaming fans (for the opposing team, of course) are getting a little on my nerves, I can show forth some of that love. :)
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<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Oh baseball! I am already looking forward to you next summer...</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg965vfTjnlKYhk5_aWk3XgBiC1IKO0BZdknTN0j2HdVAPH-E546ypTdOKDhWkEBzL8MvgVtju3GXD5PQ5NDanQu-C_uD4bQmqnRZzPeg4pwmBkXEopoj2kDwUvY_LY9z8Wk2fvO1FXuojX/s1600/baseball-homeplate.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 267px; height: 157px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg965vfTjnlKYhk5_aWk3XgBiC1IKO0BZdknTN0j2HdVAPH-E546ypTdOKDhWkEBzL8MvgVtju3GXD5PQ5NDanQu-C_uD4bQmqnRZzPeg4pwmBkXEopoj2kDwUvY_LY9z8Wk2fvO1FXuojX/s400/baseball-homeplate.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643536791969002402" border="0" /></a></div></div>Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-39601142023205316542011-08-05T16:04:00.007-06:002011-08-05T16:34:27.974-06:00What a wreck!<span style="font-style: italic;">The birds are chirping. The sun is shining. Summer is in full swing and nothing could bring you down on such a gorgeous and delightful afternoon. The radio is blasting your favorite song and the A.C. is gently blowing your hair. Life is good. Mmmm mmmm good. A little drive home on a Thursday afternoon has never been so delightful. And then.</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">CRUNCH!</span></span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">And out pops the airbag...</span><br /></div><br />So yesterday, my cute mom was in a little car accident. Well actually, I would define it as a medium accident. It wasn't any little fender-bender, but there was no serious injury. Just some medium-sized damage to her car. Luckily, it wasn't her fault and everyone was unharmed. But I can't say that about everyone's pride.<br /><br />About a year ago, there was a round-about constructed in North Logan on 18th North and 2nd East. It's pretty cool and very convenient to keep traffic flowing....but <span style="font-style: italic;">ONLY</span> when people use it correctly. One thing I have discovered in the past year is that people really don't know how to use one. Rules? Well, let's be honest, people in Logan just make up their own when it concerns the round-about.<br /><br />Which is just what Mrs. Jones (not her actual name) did yesterday. She came flying around the round-about and didn't take the time to notice my mom in the next lane. Needless to say, there was some mashed metal, some shattered glass and a few tears on the part of Mrs. Jones' daughter. There was no damage done to her truck, but my mom's van isn't in its prime shape at the moment, let's just say.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp7y8znLt786NpC_CpHqhDOk1XRLrLbK3r4MtLY53sfWjJIv2qa5QXTW89fkWcQ_ZymvxJJE60AhCPmYsDiA8xqkur5WFtM6q6Y91TNnY5u94jqaypckxz1Aj9jJTFb0-C1QHrlU-O3vmV/s1600/2011-08-05_15-26-38_524.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp7y8znLt786NpC_CpHqhDOk1XRLrLbK3r4MtLY53sfWjJIv2qa5QXTW89fkWcQ_ZymvxJJE60AhCPmYsDiA8xqkur5WFtM6q6Y91TNnY5u94jqaypckxz1Aj9jJTFb0-C1QHrlU-O3vmV/s400/2011-08-05_15-26-38_524.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637503565997255426" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKp5UT__XunueYmaMrhyphenhyphenDB3-5_rYzNZVG-b9yKMjhFFC2R31yxU_qWDZAzEDRhqnT6iC2qlGUXk94lBP3q_LI9KYKG9BJcpSvFM2h7JY0VcL9mT8BfUlN57BMdMqsNfXQzI-4ilf_Q2QNa/s1600/Car+Wreck+1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 225px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKp5UT__XunueYmaMrhyphenhyphenDB3-5_rYzNZVG-b9yKMjhFFC2R31yxU_qWDZAzEDRhqnT6iC2qlGUXk94lBP3q_LI9KYKG9BJcpSvFM2h7JY0VcL9mT8BfUlN57BMdMqsNfXQzI-4ilf_Q2QNa/s400/Car+Wreck+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637503554479491186" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuELKgjqh0Uz6CWxR2iJCLHp8wwEsG419Eg4EQQkRUdjbql7kKaxjpinmmHGo08QgI5Aqn7dqXdS4bZpJERyzJyy763yBAiOGjCOWr2NpFqnPkMaSOt5MBgGfASstBlzqKzmnWMUL54S5G/s1600/Car+Wreck+2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 225px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuELKgjqh0Uz6CWxR2iJCLHp8wwEsG419Eg4EQQkRUdjbql7kKaxjpinmmHGo08QgI5Aqn7dqXdS4bZpJERyzJyy763yBAiOGjCOWr2NpFqnPkMaSOt5MBgGfASstBlzqKzmnWMUL54S5G/s400/Car+Wreck+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5637503560303456402" border="0" /></a><br />So the police were called and husbands came to the rescue. I wish that every man in this world could be just like my dad. He's so amazing. He was very calm and collected about the whole thing. And I know that if it would have been my mom's fault, he would have been the same way. He has such a cool temper and is very understanding. Always. Unfortunately, Mr. Jones isn't exactly like my dad and was a little frustrated and rude to his wife. I can only image what their conversation at home went like last night...yikes?<br /><br />When all was said and done, the police off the scene, the glass picked up, the insurance companies called and claims made, a few hearts were probably feeling down that night. Because frankly, accidents do happen. And it makes me feel so grateful for only having experienced one in my whole life. Every time I hop into my car I am risking getting in an accident. So why in the world do I keep driving? :) But moments and experiences like this help open up our eyes to the blessings we have. I take for granted the tender mercies that I receive daily on the road. There are many times that I probably should have been hit by a deer in Logan Canyon driving home from Pickleville. How many times have I been driving by a drowsy driver moments from drifting off and hitting my car? Or better yet, how many times have I been the drowsy driver that is fighting with everything I have to stay awake. The largest caffeine pill couldn't even keep me awake...but yet somehow, I make it to my destination unharmed.<br /><br />The Lord loves us so much and gives us small bumps in the road, like a car accident, to keep us aware and maybe even cause a trial for some. But we come out of things like this as better people with more wisdom and understanding. And in the case of a wreck, probably with a little more caution. I'm glad that my mom and the Jones family were safe. And I'm glad to know that there is someone watching over us. Always.Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-34012537303292135332011-07-30T17:32:00.031-06:002011-07-30T20:08:23.925-06:00Let's Play Catch Up...What a week. Actually, make that more of what an incredible, exciting, and blessed two weeks. This is a good good life that I live. What did I do to deserve it? I don't know, but gosh, I'm one lucky lady. Here is a quick little blog update (basically this will count for my lack of writing in my journal the last two weeks...whoops!) of what has been going on in my life as of late. I will do my best to properly catch up. There is soooo much I could write about, so I'll try to stuff in all the details as briefly as I can. Is that possible? Well, let's see!<br /><br />So to <span style="font-style: italic;font-size:180%;" >start</span> off, I have this crazy thing for a beautiful "view", be that a sunset, sunrise, a killer temple view, or a view of a valley. You give me some beautiful picture of land to look at and guaranteed I will be a fan! I think that everyone from good ol' Cache Valley knows those little spots where you can catch a glimpse of everything from Wellsville to Richmond. I could sit in those spots for hours and hours. Well, a couple of weeks ago I got to see a new view of Provo. Yes, I said Provo. And it was beautiful! Yes, I said it was beautiful. I went with a friend up Provo Canyon and saw one of the prettiest views I have ever seen. I wish this picture could do a better job of portraying the view, but it will just have to do for now.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1E7YeDX-0RPkTHr8kFOaYGNl_9HreYSD_VSkUadCjYcDbNGAuKrK4mkpLc8PaVJqg0veBILkajUKkPXw6Yv_MCHofTJfU974c53PiyMXXi_IelEyj2t-N855ngOaPex53ZX_fF7iEr1tP/s1600/Squwa+Peak+Provo.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1E7YeDX-0RPkTHr8kFOaYGNl_9HreYSD_VSkUadCjYcDbNGAuKrK4mkpLc8PaVJqg0veBILkajUKkPXw6Yv_MCHofTJfU974c53PiyMXXi_IelEyj2t-N855ngOaPex53ZX_fF7iEr1tP/s400/Squwa+Peak+Provo.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635295065775568050" border="0" /></a>It is little things like a beautiful view that let me know how much the Lord loves me and finds pleasure in the simple, beautiful things. I mean really, a big mass of lights with the moon reflecting off of Utah Lake isn't anything out of this world, but boy oh boy does it make me happy!<br /><br />So <span style="font-style: italic;font-size:180%;" >next</span> up in my adventurous week: the car breakdown.<br /><br />Once upon a time when I was a little girl, my family had an old car that was on it's last dying breath. It was the world's comfiest car, but the engine was just barely putting along. I clearly remember my mom picking me up from dance class in the 6th grade, and on the way home, our cute little Cadillac decided to call it quits. At a stop light. On 14th North....aka: super busy street. So ya know, I'm sure every 12 year old girl dreams of directing traffic while her family's car is being pushed off to the side of the road. But most girls don't get to live that dream. Aren't I a lucky one? :)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5w-rOLvLk0KdP5qx3GrcR3Oab1_ok0Lti9uE2aJQpA1wvsSMQ-knolR2DwP9JKWIfWEf_3zoAFwQa57cIep9dXetTAj8b7sT_HmUz6VHRCRKu7K2zFur3mVNbJcEWIgF64EB9QfuHirsH/s1600/Blue+Cadillac.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 340px; height: 227px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5w-rOLvLk0KdP5qx3GrcR3Oab1_ok0Lti9uE2aJQpA1wvsSMQ-knolR2DwP9JKWIfWEf_3zoAFwQa57cIep9dXetTAj8b7sT_HmUz6VHRCRKu7K2zFur3mVNbJcEWIgF64EB9QfuHirsH/s400/Blue+Cadillac.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635297534834737010" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Here is a similar model of our dear family car. Cars have come a long way since 1984.</span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Well, don't worry, that little car-dying event was not the first and it was not the last. The car kept going for a few more years, including many occurrences of the radiator freaking out and the car over-heating. There was that distinct burning smell and I understood the purpose of anti-freeze better than I ever imagined. So last Wednesday, my Pickleville friends and I were making the drive home through Logan Canyon when we realized another kid from our cast was pulled off on the side of the road. Being caring (and very curious) friends, we pulled over to see what was going on.<br /><br />They say that your sense of smell is very strong and can bring back memories so vividly. So naturally, when I smelled that oh-too-familiar smell of burn and saw smoke billowing from the hood of the car, I knew exactly what was going on. It's like I was reliving my childhood, only this time I didn't have to direct traffic. Needless to say, we took care of his car enough to get it back to Logan. I'm afraid it's a goner though. His poor little car.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKLXU-NLWrqM7XH75K7lHjKG-vz5zod-CZOEv-AyKbUOwFkVITOyy_8OYMkD8FjLylD1id0haCd7e1CXjqEPZC9-TR8Gnk707uq2cVE8mfYKNhkQOSRxiSCt7wwX7ZsiGQXrRcJpJFC-iD/s1600/Overheated+Car.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 358px; height: 271px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKLXU-NLWrqM7XH75K7lHjKG-vz5zod-CZOEv-AyKbUOwFkVITOyy_8OYMkD8FjLylD1id0haCd7e1CXjqEPZC9-TR8Gnk707uq2cVE8mfYKNhkQOSRxiSCt7wwX7ZsiGQXrRcJpJFC-iD/s400/Overheated+Car.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635299615568198706" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8KOSl9S9W2T-bDHIImIDw58AoxMRkpN0qU5shaUA4QF7nb-FqcES5MLfX9uEr6xusjV-ESjf79gN97vIIbYCdnEeAiAyiQ0QV06NmlNiPHHfDmb2dyV40FcuRcLW8rfyULQ7IJHR386tE/s1600/Overheated+Car+6.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 358px; height: 296px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8KOSl9S9W2T-bDHIImIDw58AoxMRkpN0qU5shaUA4QF7nb-FqcES5MLfX9uEr6xusjV-ESjf79gN97vIIbYCdnEeAiAyiQ0QV06NmlNiPHHfDmb2dyV40FcuRcLW8rfyULQ7IJHR386tE/s400/Overheated+Car+6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635299616479295154" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpJ5INEgE7dRp0Z1_XyzoiCqSXljNWfMbNF-d5H8ysg1wvOz9Y7SB9PKWJg5j-7H2XXsL2NqGHU1_j-hbst2ZOp4qToL5X7iRVYHRE2ZadVd71c82hfhpHHdDLAxtdVNMjyoRfhR8CK-Jj/s1600/Overheated+Car+10.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 359px; height: 284px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpJ5INEgE7dRp0Z1_XyzoiCqSXljNWfMbNF-d5H8ysg1wvOz9Y7SB9PKWJg5j-7H2XXsL2NqGHU1_j-hbst2ZOp4qToL5X7iRVYHRE2ZadVd71c82hfhpHHdDLAxtdVNMjyoRfhR8CK-Jj/s400/Overheated+Car+10.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635299618738486050" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">This is what happens when you are the only female at the PVP carpool.<br /></span></div><br />The <span style="font-style: italic;font-size:180%;" >next</span> day was one that I will never forget. I could spend hours writing out all the details of this story, but I'll please my former high school English teachers and write a real good summary instead. I had the opportunity of playing the piano at the funeral of a good friend's grandmother. I never knew her, because in all reality, I had only been friends with this guy for like two weeks. If that. The whole situation just worked out perfectly though, and there is no doubt in my mind that it wasn't just coincidence. I mean everything from the timing of when we first met, to the song his family chose for him to sing, to the day of the funeral, it could not have been more perfect. It was a pretty incredible experience. To be honest, I have never attended the funeral of someone that I didn't know. But it was wonderful. What an outstanding lady his grandmother must have been. I feel like I knew her just from the beautiful pictures and words that her loving family members had to say.<br /><br />Grandmothers are without a doubt some of the most awesome women in the world. I'm sure that everyone is partial to their own, but after attending his grandma's funeral, it made me realize just how lucky I am to have both of mine still alive. I know that I take for granted all of those precious moments we have together. Both my Grandma Mecham and Grandma Bagley are angels. If I can aspire to be half of the women that they are, then sheesh! My life can be complete.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">My Grandma and Grandpa Mecham</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJamTcIGVuvWKcBbn8322xqziEwey7Hp1ezJVIFwA_1V4C6X0Tys32lYBioaJ45tBJiHBOWVYArqzW4IX9eb6qVD9ey8u8_WlKLs0kCC4Z0Ey_ximWsAeWawQR5OPlK052mhqR6gDLj-Jd/s1600/Grandma+and+Gramps.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 216px; height: 272px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJamTcIGVuvWKcBbn8322xqziEwey7Hp1ezJVIFwA_1V4C6X0Tys32lYBioaJ45tBJiHBOWVYArqzW4IX9eb6qVD9ey8u8_WlKLs0kCC4Z0Ey_ximWsAeWawQR5OPlK052mhqR6gDLj-Jd/s400/Grandma+and+Gramps.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635305873216457666" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">My Grandma Bagley</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMnuBhbO_0AqNthidGb9T43PlZgHoozkqt4RuvOvQbwpqB6KB3cC6Hf0SUF65-wMYFCplVjnvW1xKf_i-_xJDB8dfiQ3atsOoIGqFyxB2KKk7NKeOcnEa03o6WqhO_Njw8knqdItw8A5m-/s1600/Grandma+Bagley.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 227px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMnuBhbO_0AqNthidGb9T43PlZgHoozkqt4RuvOvQbwpqB6KB3cC6Hf0SUF65-wMYFCplVjnvW1xKf_i-_xJDB8dfiQ3atsOoIGqFyxB2KKk7NKeOcnEa03o6WqhO_Njw8knqdItw8A5m-/s400/Grandma+Bagley.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635305878232642130" border="0" /></a><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Thank you Brad for letting me be a part of that special day in your family's lives, and helping to remind me just how wonderful our grandmothers are.</span><br /></div><br />The week <span style="font-style: italic;font-size:180%;" >ended</span> with a delightful weekend get-away to Bear Lake. Now, I know it doesn't seem like Bear Lake would be a get-away for me, because typically it isn't. I'm always there. But I actually got a taste of what many tourist-traveling-vacationing peeps experience when they come to Bear Lake. On Friday night, I stayed over at Whit's cabin with a group of friends. The next day we hit up the lake, ate a ginormous pizza that was pretty much the size of me, and had an all around fun weekend. Our cute friends came to Pickleville that afternoon, as did my immediate and some extended family. I feel so blessed to have such loving and supporting people in my life. I know I already said this, but how did I get so lucky? Seriously.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Me, Shanna, Stu, Tessa, Whit, and JD</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYwL8aSfqA_3VHph5StJcSJU5N2VCbn9NCXQ-qpACiex4zRVtS8QF5gmVV5yQzX45zLkEbjUmRHEy3BjkqlFQN3YmNOYOXKY67abUeF4RVJeclFzs4EmGXAxtu7QPl66B3_u4WiQ_LXUuD/s1600/Bear+Lake+Trip+1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 350px; height: 288px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYwL8aSfqA_3VHph5StJcSJU5N2VCbn9NCXQ-qpACiex4zRVtS8QF5gmVV5yQzX45zLkEbjUmRHEy3BjkqlFQN3YmNOYOXKY67abUeF4RVJeclFzs4EmGXAxtu7QPl66B3_u4WiQ_LXUuD/s400/Bear+Lake+Trip+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635309238260924498" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">THE largest pizza I have ever seen. And consumed.</span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKCJPQO8ovR-IXSfXzdrf8yb0lU_NzB7_KnjC4cfzAbGgSDntWdgRLjeNDM6ub6BoBDu5u6ElA8Pcxxd0vutSXuQdQbzBhqb7guzi58BghXWB5gjOWB5CUhilP-7CnWRhgWiJO_bfPLcD2/s1600/Bear+Lake+Trip+6.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 332px; height: 249px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKCJPQO8ovR-IXSfXzdrf8yb0lU_NzB7_KnjC4cfzAbGgSDntWdgRLjeNDM6ub6BoBDu5u6ElA8Pcxxd0vutSXuQdQbzBhqb7guzi58BghXWB5gjOWB5CUhilP-7CnWRhgWiJO_bfPLcD2/s400/Bear+Lake+Trip+6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635309246912005154" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">We were totally ready for the challenge. Bring it on.</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDaL0OSaIKX-ZduRX__pY6eqtYgLIIlc4Ig3xidSD_ef_l8dyJ4Z0-uXLI6Jszor61HBF0SlTLtknPEguZPL9bdOms9rALmbCSBMI-eD3hIlMNgB2YR6USxfWkTtQvkaM9tl2mEooGILTU/s1600/Bear+Lake+Trip+7.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 331px; height: 253px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDaL0OSaIKX-ZduRX__pY6eqtYgLIIlc4Ig3xidSD_ef_l8dyJ4Z0-uXLI6Jszor61HBF0SlTLtknPEguZPL9bdOms9rALmbCSBMI-eD3hIlMNgB2YR6USxfWkTtQvkaM9tl2mEooGILTU/s400/Bear+Lake+Trip+7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635309253246490674" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">And that is how you clean up a 24 inch pizza.</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiGja122Dz4YujardJQ5wPh3bmCVjKS_Y2GShX0wsKunyG0BYtyQ7ig6RtQXnQ2qcQoz39AUPufJJxwlm9BJcQjxdRVIwxg8gMO9YJjzhPb4K44ei_atn6CBrfv1iQWeLdnCHd57qf1Y9M/s1600/Bear+Lake+Trip+10.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 330px; height: 248px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiGja122Dz4YujardJQ5wPh3bmCVjKS_Y2GShX0wsKunyG0BYtyQ7ig6RtQXnQ2qcQoz39AUPufJJxwlm9BJcQjxdRVIwxg8gMO9YJjzhPb4K44ei_atn6CBrfv1iQWeLdnCHd57qf1Y9M/s400/Bear+Lake+Trip+10.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635309257176717282" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">And this what you feel like after you've cleaned one up. I didn't want to eat pizza ever again.</span><span style="font-size:85%;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGVApOhyo5787k6wfZgG6lnVXuG-ZsJ6s-TTpFTtgZvdVcVCEZQKi1nfK_UD6PtWFdGNQGyoMmS4IBa24zAdcZRmT5rtN5KisgjMKdr-uqBjMWkfmo0OLH2p8R_GIevPkiHrSNYhyphenhyphenET2ZW/s1600/Bear+Lake+Trip+11.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 335px; height: 252px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGVApOhyo5787k6wfZgG6lnVXuG-ZsJ6s-TTpFTtgZvdVcVCEZQKi1nfK_UD6PtWFdGNQGyoMmS4IBa24zAdcZRmT5rtN5KisgjMKdr-uqBjMWkfmo0OLH2p8R_GIevPkiHrSNYhyphenhyphenET2ZW/s400/Bear+Lake+Trip+11.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635309691719411394" border="0" /></a>My sweet sweet friends.</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFDCPu5ccot81AoEhKY-xwOjmsU6oeg1TiEdaVToCjoa0RfpppW_sM2FXH0agGUqI-znuxcDu-tMG5PjrY4NxvFeRiJdsRrwZ-qnTaQXJ6f_MKHsUeElle3xqA1HpGm_GeOe-x6xKFkieV/s1600/Pickleville+1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 337px; height: 253px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFDCPu5ccot81AoEhKY-xwOjmsU6oeg1TiEdaVToCjoa0RfpppW_sM2FXH0agGUqI-znuxcDu-tMG5PjrY4NxvFeRiJdsRrwZ-qnTaQXJ6f_MKHsUeElle3xqA1HpGm_GeOe-x6xKFkieV/s400/Pickleville+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635309696247939186" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">My familia, minus the big brother.</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK5cq5KA9EjoSGa7vGVvFdNY6j3zA9OKYRK1Tk5fcpIdafAD7zLvVq6-qPMJAit_htMCLpYLSC-1xvDsgRgwFsiNYiABjMBeUbK72i7yYcQxeTssiO__AQu_j8NXyH6YZNz7I2-Q5Q63UZ/s1600/Pickleville+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 265px; height: 354px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK5cq5KA9EjoSGa7vGVvFdNY6j3zA9OKYRK1Tk5fcpIdafAD7zLvVq6-qPMJAit_htMCLpYLSC-1xvDsgRgwFsiNYiABjMBeUbK72i7yYcQxeTssiO__AQu_j8NXyH6YZNz7I2-Q5Q63UZ/s400/Pickleville+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635309699533700066" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Cousins, Aunts, Uncles, Grandparents...it doesn't get better than this!</span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCP7M_lWo1i2ahh96mI6abs4ZBKNlXu5P1WJ0EcWqOahwqsb0dI09O3Y_BCkGJsG-_cccLWAtg3Z-MpW_UCGocGuNTI5B3WgTRf0SqcTUkKIlYH5fPBMCiobgJaFWg0B50C4mOPhfbzv24/s1600/Pickleville+3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 351px; height: 277px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCP7M_lWo1i2ahh96mI6abs4ZBKNlXu5P1WJ0EcWqOahwqsb0dI09O3Y_BCkGJsG-_cccLWAtg3Z-MpW_UCGocGuNTI5B3WgTRf0SqcTUkKIlYH5fPBMCiobgJaFWg0B50C4mOPhfbzv24/s400/Pickleville+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635309701552142562" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">My best friend in the whole world. Whitney Ruth Davis.</span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg89KS5OmLlduu86lX2wONkZDqQEN7za3juuoLgTF5d62f5XPLBRWIFgiYwf4oltwxajs487_LL1slC5al0IaBFPf5IPnymH3Vf9UEYTrxqos9EknOqBcQ7Z6ceflAMHYX2ZsqblA6ONTAA/s1600/Pickleville5.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 226px; height: 358px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg89KS5OmLlduu86lX2wONkZDqQEN7za3juuoLgTF5d62f5XPLBRWIFgiYwf4oltwxajs487_LL1slC5al0IaBFPf5IPnymH3Vf9UEYTrxqos9EknOqBcQ7Z6ceflAMHYX2ZsqblA6ONTAA/s400/Pickleville5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635309791843788162" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:180%;" >Next</span> on the ballot: the 24th of July!<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />So here in Utah, we all are familiar with the holiday that celebrates and praises those brave, strong men and women who crossed the plains in blistering heat and icy cold conditions to settle in the Salt Lake Valley. I have often wondered if I could have lived during the times of the Pioneers. And I still do not have a solid answer. Sometimes I think that I could handle the conditions and situations they went through because I wouldn't know any different. Other times, when I am basking in a glorious air conditioned car, I think there is absolutely-one-hundred-percent-no-possible-way.<br /><br />Anyway, my cute little home town of North Logan always has a celebration including a parade, live entertainment, food, blow-up toys...the whole bit! During high school, I was always involved in the carnival games with the city Youth Council, then last year I was a part of the entertainment. Well, this year, GayLynn Daniels asked me to be the coordinator of the entertainment. So it's one thing to sing for 20 minutes at a celebration. It's another to schedule three hours worth of singing/entertainment for a celebration. However, despite all the little things that fell through or caused a few early gray hairs, the program turned out SO good. I could not have been more pleased. It went so smoothly, the performers were out of this world and the audience seemed to be very pleased with the program. Smiling faces and complimentary words are the best reward an event coordinator could ever receive, let me tell you. Here are a few pictures from the big event. I would post pictures of all the performers, but I'm afraid Blogger will discontinue my account for uploading too many pictures. :)<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Whitney Davis.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ-mRvVrNDE6zUN_15NksAO6j-MgBg_vDMG7vwcgpLTn5jQWEDrn-QVa2fRF8vT4nrjjDWBNCGogV-pIF07hb24atXT5z_pe4rl8zf3tXZxAp-LOScWSw0QktrmHCXEZr6nzvfLs2usSbU/s1600/25th+of+July+--+Whitney1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 322px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQ-mRvVrNDE6zUN_15NksAO6j-MgBg_vDMG7vwcgpLTn5jQWEDrn-QVa2fRF8vT4nrjjDWBNCGogV-pIF07hb24atXT5z_pe4rl8zf3tXZxAp-LOScWSw0QktrmHCXEZr6nzvfLs2usSbU/s400/25th+of+July+--+Whitney1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635315941112078146" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS8mCF56in8NzgEb9kPZgbmlbqb_B_rnBdd1Ar3JO4t6xTTUq1imxGvmZsTTgEvaoV5iwJqRi6cOhf5jD27draxIGGJIc7aZtquqtceH9KNpjnBhpg8fnXRtGKicIELxMJlBLLJXzduxP5/s1600/25th+of+July+--+Whit+and+Meg.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 324px; height: 304px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS8mCF56in8NzgEb9kPZgbmlbqb_B_rnBdd1Ar3JO4t6xTTUq1imxGvmZsTTgEvaoV5iwJqRi6cOhf5jD27draxIGGJIc7aZtquqtceH9KNpjnBhpg8fnXRtGKicIELxMJlBLLJXzduxP5/s400/25th+of+July+--+Whit+and+Meg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635315925210943794" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">BYU Young Ambassadors Brittany, Brad and Michele</span>.<br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ieRjHcVJ9IXIHVgIIjt_20bwXs0SchEss5B3ov4748kB1DKq96AObL4HRMcmWOJugVNIoBASa2W7ULldu3ca8lZCk5gGDqMg-uA_Rvqra28O7tdeMHH1pWsGAbkLQ6ThJHX7YHXu7ecr/s1600/25th+of+July+--+Meesh%252C+Brad%252C+Britt2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 323px; height: 241px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4ieRjHcVJ9IXIHVgIIjt_20bwXs0SchEss5B3ov4748kB1DKq96AObL4HRMcmWOJugVNIoBASa2W7ULldu3ca8lZCk5gGDqMg-uA_Rvqra28O7tdeMHH1pWsGAbkLQ6ThJHX7YHXu7ecr/s400/25th+of+July+--+Meesh%252C+Brad%252C+Britt2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635315934447769586" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPSwEt3CDzQ_BOXh4wGZV_Xdf_d9Z8kJp2KWLKz-6lDXAVViw7TtsTyC7LPbnqVgT-yRVJCxk80xDCR48ypgctdrWVRL6rDYz4cMA-O_0xrNeiX_RgQNs-fjSSs6oG_3PEbMQ0_U1On2OW/s1600/25th+of+July+--+YA%2527s+and+Meg.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 329px; height: 261px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPSwEt3CDzQ_BOXh4wGZV_Xdf_d9Z8kJp2KWLKz-6lDXAVViw7TtsTyC7LPbnqVgT-yRVJCxk80xDCR48ypgctdrWVRL6rDYz4cMA-O_0xrNeiX_RgQNs-fjSSs6oG_3PEbMQ0_U1On2OW/s400/25th+of+July+--+YA%2527s+and+Meg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635315930882774210" border="0" /></a></div><br /></div>Later that night, Brad, Meesh, Britt and I went to <span style="font-style: italic;">Who Shot Juanito Bandito</span> up at Pickleville. The past two years, I have been a part of the Bandito cast, but this year it just worked out better to do one PVP show. So the five (Britt's boyfriend Jason was also there) spent the evening laughing out heads off at Bandito.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;">Brad and I eating chocolate covered raspberries by the lake. It <span style="font-style: italic;">really</span> doesn't get better than that.</span><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTruHC5YWrHgVGPwbRxvAn4rw6qBjOmV61U6Q3UlgEZdmqxmxwnwNJiPboUo6qkvqpJAzCyHu3S9pka9hsB7ernIt8gHVRh1kyptLLTrDlUXhC3iw6I1Clw6SOyTV6ZBe9ERuXyDgaKGU5/s1600/Brad+and+Meg+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 347px; height: 279px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTruHC5YWrHgVGPwbRxvAn4rw6qBjOmV61U6Q3UlgEZdmqxmxwnwNJiPboUo6qkvqpJAzCyHu3S9pka9hsB7ernIt8gHVRh1kyptLLTrDlUXhC3iw6I1Clw6SOyTV6ZBe9ERuXyDgaKGU5/s400/Brad+and+Meg+%2528photoshop%2529.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635318910598957602" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTcKwfw1wTjfUoYfzL9LZwAB7w7XdqANdAIh7UpwdtndbfM4XsKb2eauPbOZdj65BqahUDTQ7_RV-kmkQkmix0l9MxDgMxJs_oGMoZ5T5L-5sJWD5o6s8jXcUY4gCjGe2EG8nJMybp2n_O/s1600/Bandito--Meesh+and+Meg.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 340px; height: 257px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTcKwfw1wTjfUoYfzL9LZwAB7w7XdqANdAIh7UpwdtndbfM4XsKb2eauPbOZdj65BqahUDTQ7_RV-kmkQkmix0l9MxDgMxJs_oGMoZ5T5L-5sJWD5o6s8jXcUY4gCjGe2EG8nJMybp2n_O/s400/Bandito--Meesh+and+Meg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635318901971522722" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoz0_YVBnQ1mxfpHlId0Aje9XJRIoSvW6U7TkRW4yqLtvw4N-SY9TkfJOSwOhZk6b1pZfOeKz7OYlV-6Ed-Mc_0TA_sDYTl7-qnRnfzL6DKsr4xWK5r5PU4WxMn_5RJ6x1yqlgJJv90g9i/s1600/Bandito--group.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 341px; height: 232px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoz0_YVBnQ1mxfpHlId0Aje9XJRIoSvW6U7TkRW4yqLtvw4N-SY9TkfJOSwOhZk6b1pZfOeKz7OYlV-6Ed-Mc_0TA_sDYTl7-qnRnfzL6DKsr4xWK5r5PU4WxMn_5RJ6x1yqlgJJv90g9i/s400/Bandito--group.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635318898560704482" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgppcmJu_EBrud4MhDezXGwRxarK9QAh4zxn1kAhDT-04taYioPv6nBAJmY6jBKx-rOUqceuF0RXtMhqc_G-REBbc1yKIqiAI1kxDVffGtotqXU9NkZSpy4E9Ci7Jm0jBAeNpKLs-yrmyku/s1600/Bandito--Brad+and+Meg.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 337px; height: 273px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgppcmJu_EBrud4MhDezXGwRxarK9QAh4zxn1kAhDT-04taYioPv6nBAJmY6jBKx-rOUqceuF0RXtMhqc_G-REBbc1yKIqiAI1kxDVffGtotqXU9NkZSpy4E9Ci7Jm0jBAeNpKLs-yrmyku/s400/Bandito--Brad+and+Meg.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635318908127191890" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:180%;" >Finally</span>, on Tuesday my family went to the canyon to roast hot dogs and marshmallows. This is a long time family tradition that we used to do every summer. The past few years I have had to miss out because of Pickleville, but this year I was able to go! I seriously felt like a little child again. My cousin Mallory has been visiting from Florida and it was just lovely to have her there roasting with the rest of us.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLja10kB5KIKz90_83rEgskTfuAq3lS1vm4SFvXlEsE989kfLX3VSsptww770uwzMaoPpKS4fLFWK_rdiNcAAhmZoNXi06MPDn2m3b7KrkoXS41P-d4ITh8JYioMoOo5yT35-GHPsz9hFu/s1600/Canyon+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 257px; height: 340px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLja10kB5KIKz90_83rEgskTfuAq3lS1vm4SFvXlEsE989kfLX3VSsptww770uwzMaoPpKS4fLFWK_rdiNcAAhmZoNXi06MPDn2m3b7KrkoXS41P-d4ITh8JYioMoOo5yT35-GHPsz9hFu/s400/Canyon+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635321546156738434" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvtWROFg_1hWhiFWiTs4M0dOHYuSeTrSmTqyvNdmsDm9aaZyHwHb-_X0Ml-V_B-gEBQCZs_PDh1cSXh1BBomdm2K3yXYtPeMPbwuSj1IEMw6b6WS5ad8UxsdZUBg16r6XQ-Ydnuw3dl1lH/s1600/Canyon+5.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 261px; height: 348px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvtWROFg_1hWhiFWiTs4M0dOHYuSeTrSmTqyvNdmsDm9aaZyHwHb-_X0Ml-V_B-gEBQCZs_PDh1cSXh1BBomdm2K3yXYtPeMPbwuSj1IEMw6b6WS5ad8UxsdZUBg16r6XQ-Ydnuw3dl1lH/s400/Canyon+5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635321555806772466" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Hands down, my favorite picture of the night. This is just for you Grandma!</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYaIvfAFP7rxXI7HXc8_moJ0knM4O_hQ-MlHpyLKyFbnFAd0e7jMtjTlMoBOc2tT1_Sq66KQSs5nRJeVFZnkUNOikcDPG8bogkgO1cp86Lx_a0MnqQsEMdoe3kAo1NnAJBvwpS1OG1nIXg/s1600/Canyon+7.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 270px; height: 362px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYaIvfAFP7rxXI7HXc8_moJ0knM4O_hQ-MlHpyLKyFbnFAd0e7jMtjTlMoBOc2tT1_Sq66KQSs5nRJeVFZnkUNOikcDPG8bogkgO1cp86Lx_a0MnqQsEMdoe3kAo1NnAJBvwpS1OG1nIXg/s400/Canyon+7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635321550396709970" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Aaron is a creep haha.</span><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp2DENnQWH4YW_rWzYN-JniY4yFuI1iNhSMY1LVYOmN9Q_efxFb_zkUhm4kn3BpOfe6DpsHiPQIRsqKXErfOCpz1u2BtKzJ8QRggn-RtgkCO7tSC4KJs3sUJmta3FpCLUB49g3beTVNwFz/s1600/Canyon+12.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 359px; height: 321px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp2DENnQWH4YW_rWzYN-JniY4yFuI1iNhSMY1LVYOmN9Q_efxFb_zkUhm4kn3BpOfe6DpsHiPQIRsqKXErfOCpz1u2BtKzJ8QRggn-RtgkCO7tSC4KJs3sUJmta3FpCLUB49g3beTVNwFz/s400/Canyon+12.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635321547459352226" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnYOL_liytdotWHy-_XQAu-EXCRHwJ0IpyxZUmbgYRscw1GVwfjF_3hwXtnVSIIXGsOXs2TT1Y7m2vGhHr5om99_8G0CyOYUrmxBFZ7gZ7OBJT3UazO0vYbHyLWYJNAMkvffl4CmVqRtRN/s1600/Canyon+10.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 362px; height: 269px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnYOL_liytdotWHy-_XQAu-EXCRHwJ0IpyxZUmbgYRscw1GVwfjF_3hwXtnVSIIXGsOXs2TT1Y7m2vGhHr5om99_8G0CyOYUrmxBFZ7gZ7OBJT3UazO0vYbHyLWYJNAMkvffl4CmVqRtRN/s400/Canyon+10.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635321553227260226" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLn7KNkWbX-Ic21zxPQNcXSpNm56192gIp0-XOH0FvNFC3iQJGhQxk9Fj2IIVPF2V9kAvvNKdYqqom3qhZizFVrpP0SuImhxgVPR33gvYdif0IErvAh2U32RAWSYfWsVvQBtYx7GgvBgxu/s1600/Canyon+13.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 358px; height: 380px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLn7KNkWbX-Ic21zxPQNcXSpNm56192gIp0-XOH0FvNFC3iQJGhQxk9Fj2IIVPF2V9kAvvNKdYqqom3qhZizFVrpP0SuImhxgVPR33gvYdif0IErvAh2U32RAWSYfWsVvQBtYx7GgvBgxu/s400/Canyon+13.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635321681219163906" border="0" /></a><br />So to <span style="font-style: italic;font-size:180%;" >wrap things up</span>, on Thursday night I was able to go to my cute friend Kylee's wedding shower. She is marrying one of her high school friends and let me tell you, I never would have believed it had you told me that in high school. But time and missions can change a lot of things, and here they are today...as in love as ever! Kylee is going to make one beautiful bride. It's pretty exciting to have so many friends getting married and some are now starting to leave on missions. Which means that boys my age are coming home soon...yikes! Where does time go?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGxdtyVVR0Ymh68Z7G9aqh67DBn1UmMsMeSpxS4cJ1BcJdkreLJfnM7ouRtgJF__XnaaLo1cLYP4iOSvBvXTEOtU1_kFFKSI8Uo8NJX4tmvsjciDBc9coZ4VJMqwnMjE4t-CNwTPH9P6St/s1600/Kylee%2527s+bridal+shower.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 353px; height: 292px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGxdtyVVR0Ymh68Z7G9aqh67DBn1UmMsMeSpxS4cJ1BcJdkreLJfnM7ouRtgJF__XnaaLo1cLYP4iOSvBvXTEOtU1_kFFKSI8Uo8NJX4tmvsjciDBc9coZ4VJMqwnMjE4t-CNwTPH9P6St/s400/Kylee%2527s+bridal+shower.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635323317483926034" border="0" /></a> So as we can see, the result of getting a few weeks behind in blogging is an excessively long blog post. The key to catching up is to try as hard as possible to not get so far behind again. So that's the goal...but it is always a goal. And life is busy. Life is crazy. Life is exciting. And it is so so good. In fact, even my little brother Jared has only positive and blissful things to say about life right now. I'm pretty sure if I were in his shoes, I would not be saying that. Let me explain.<br /><br />Yesterday, Jared got stung by a wasp smack dab between his eyes on his forehead. I guess the poor little kid's face swelled up pretty bad. He went off to a camp out with his scout group last night and I never saw him. So this morning he got home and wow, was I in for a surprise. I walked out of my room to see his face staring at me. And I'm not going to lie, I was sincerely frightened. He looks really scary. The boy's face is GIGANTIC! And he looks nothing like himself. It is as if he is Jared in another person's face. It's weird.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOaJBQEOLPN6kVDl2IOOwGEp3NrRBOOkzh83IVnDHYp2-pHHM4DlGaz6wi8WXWFS_KMRvlRsFmtAGbQqy-Cx39NqpMXkMJNGRGGTM16i7zIYWpIpkYHCZpW_FTAtUdFfr_REIyes5Si_Qq/s1600/Jared%2527s+bee+sting.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 259px; height: 346px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOaJBQEOLPN6kVDl2IOOwGEp3NrRBOOkzh83IVnDHYp2-pHHM4DlGaz6wi8WXWFS_KMRvlRsFmtAGbQqy-Cx39NqpMXkMJNGRGGTM16i7zIYWpIpkYHCZpW_FTAtUdFfr_REIyes5Si_Qq/s400/Jared%2527s+bee+sting.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635323328257161058" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigjd5XfMFEPYhRyPwHo0UwQQfYIXgQ8k33buMZ_OiQQNrf7P38rQ4mSFNcMQ57PwEulW9EHLJN3GRDrJ8Rvp-_dQTng8olhkhimfVbp8-BCI1Njfj0auj8Q2baf85rr_VcPuFNToWHuSfP/s1600/Jared%2527s+bee+sting+smiling.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 259px; height: 344px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigjd5XfMFEPYhRyPwHo0UwQQfYIXgQ8k33buMZ_OiQQNrf7P38rQ4mSFNcMQ57PwEulW9EHLJN3GRDrJ8Rvp-_dQTng8olhkhimfVbp8-BCI1Njfj0auj8Q2baf85rr_VcPuFNToWHuSfP/s400/Jared%2527s+bee+sting+smiling.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5635323321802725362" border="0" /></a>But despite his temporary change in facial identity, the boy is so positive and happy. He has been flitting around the house laughing and playing all day today. Who does that when their face is twice it's normal size? Jared does. He is such a good example to me of how to stay happy and positive through the little trials in life. What a neat boy he is. Love you, Jared :)<br /><br />Well, what a fantastic month July has been. Four more weeks and school will be here ready to rock and roll. There are so many things to look forward to in this last month of summer.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><br />So August, hit me with your best shot!</span><br /></div></div></div>Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-26116981985856910582011-07-10T20:19:00.004-06:002011-07-10T20:21:52.445-06:00YouTube GoodiesAlright, so I admit. I spend countless hours on YouTube sometimes. I can't help it. I just get sucked into the YouTube funnel. You watch one, then it leads to another and another, and next thing you know, it's an hour later and you are still sitting on YouTube mindlessly wasting time.<br /><br />So here are a just few of the most recent videos I have been watching. I hope you enjoy them as much as I have been the last few days.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Mind-blowing.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dy5MTlSvRdG2UOABIY-j8qIQn5Wm8X_2idSefNkzp2L0biQbcr-wSvogJQXdYSEdRBviUZjjGlLxDGzOlj7rQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />This is a video of Nick Pitera singing "A Whole New World" from Aladdin. I am still in shock every time I watch this. It's going to rock your world.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Talented and beautiful.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwfPw_wWnU32gOy-H0va4qJEV3t8AiTIFXJ9dxdmXJfytAKE2I-w-I5djdVl5PABxEE6y2zzNqK6PC6jIwy-Q' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is a video of a group called Karmin doing a cover of Lady Gaga's "Born This Way." I have never been a fan of the song, but when I heard this version, I can't get enough. This girl is crazy talented! Not only can she sing with a lot of style, she can <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=khCokQt--l4">rap her face off</a>. There is a lot of talent oozing out of this chick.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;">Stupidly & ridiculously hilarious.</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw6_8b5V829ibWed4OQhGgsMMzMdSrgnvu80ncNG7I5hPWkndWADVbR6oUZ5JMgd2otvaHtfcwvdKl-KJkdjA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />This is a video entitled "Nature Walk." Thanks to my good friends Carl and Kelvin for introducing me to this. It is so dumb. SO dumb. Which is why it's so funny!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span></span></span></span></div>Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-46907895111141415702011-07-07T16:24:00.017-06:002011-07-07T20:38:05.642-06:00Happy Birthday, America!<span style="font-size:180%;">July 4th.</span> What a splendid day! Every year I look forward to the oh-so-wonderful summer holiday. The holiday that is filled with <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">fireworks</span> and <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">food</span> and <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">family</span><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);"> </span>and <span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 0, 153);">fun</span>! It is a day that I feel especially proud to be an American. It is a day to take my hat off to the country that I love and most importantly to those brave men and women who have and still continue to give up so much for me to live in this free land. The best country in the world. The United States of America.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTYSyOC4lE1-X4zcCC7JPIWIYh58T4KBK0cdgjb2PT9xxyDOFfLZL6ThVXDUQKBFc46sGRqk48CbA5-SoqQSmff8wB6BdnN42v_GRWX51xaPet9A9tvuO7E7UFu9hevN4nrCdsND3odbxw/s1600/4th+of+July+12.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 334px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTYSyOC4lE1-X4zcCC7JPIWIYh58T4KBK0cdgjb2PT9xxyDOFfLZL6ThVXDUQKBFc46sGRqk48CbA5-SoqQSmff8wB6BdnN42v_GRWX51xaPet9A9tvuO7E7UFu9hevN4nrCdsND3odbxw/s400/4th+of+July+12.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626778529468975666" border="0" /></a><br />There are many traditions that people have for this holiday, and my family is included in that. Over the years I have been a part of parades, fireworks, barbecues....the works! But there is one constant thing that my family does to celebrate. Utah State and Fireworks West puts on one quality fireworks show every year. Well, about 10 years ago, my family moved to the house we live in now. And now I know why my parents chose to buy this house. It's because we have a straight shot view of Romney Stadium from our backyard. Okay, so that's really not the reason, but it is definitely a perk! So when the fireworks are shot off, we can just tap into good ol' Q92 on the radio and watch the whole firework show from the comfort of our lawn chairs. It's a pretty sweet little set up. And I look forward to it more than probably anyone in my family.<br /><br />So there's this sick little thing in life called <span style="font-style: italic;">Murphy's Law</span> and it just happens to follow me wherever I go. I LOVE the fireworks so much, but get this. I haven't seen them for the past three years. Yep, that's right. Count them. T.H.R.E.E. For the past three years, I have been doing Pickleville and have a show the night of the fireworks. Which means I miss out on the treats, the music, the explosions in the sky...the whole enchilada. This year was no exception. But, this post isn't just a pity party for Megan. It's to show how <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">INCREDIBLE</span> my 4th of July was. Yes, I did miss the Logan fireworks, but I had a few other fun events happen. And once again, the 4th of July was one swell holiday! Here are a few pictures of the weekend.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">I went down to the Stadium of Fire at Cougar Stadium in Provo. Yep, I'm definitely going to be making that a tradition. Here is the charming David Archuleta and his voice of gold.<br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHIwtMiLXmW7BnD-stPvP7jzJ9ck6OEiICo95KDmETjc2GFbxTIUD7aKpT_cxhbHOSddbIcCm-oJkAuTgGf6e1g7F3wSU0pVPzRTj0fsUZ68g0syZYXXIkEfDfZzKrOdon0KSf6Xn77er6/s1600/Stadium+of+Fire+4.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 329px; height: 247px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHIwtMiLXmW7BnD-stPvP7jzJ9ck6OEiICo95KDmETjc2GFbxTIUD7aKpT_cxhbHOSddbIcCm-oJkAuTgGf6e1g7F3wSU0pVPzRTj0fsUZ68g0syZYXXIkEfDfZzKrOdon0KSf6Xn77er6/s400/Stadium+of+Fire+4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626775696690234466" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1LXaOg9SmdasgHniZcqHzHsI1X7kF2TeArZL9UqAlZcy6iT3mxdU6Sxg9_UEGaZBCXIlGeurDuhyphenhyphenZDyVChCqKePBRa6gfzlJwJbVLPKpySac9gwaTgVsXBtH3-ZsYDqWrtB0oBSruxlQ/s1600/Stadium+of+Fire+3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 324px; height: 330px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs1LXaOg9SmdasgHniZcqHzHsI1X7kF2TeArZL9UqAlZcy6iT3mxdU6Sxg9_UEGaZBCXIlGeurDuhyphenhyphenZDyVChCqKePBRa6gfzlJwJbVLPKpySac9gwaTgVsXBtH3-ZsYDqWrtB0oBSruxlQ/s400/Stadium+of+Fire+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626776123561123794" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">My friend Carl and I enjoying the show.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0DGiIFLOpbPdijVBXqDp7OP8XkGn88xuNfBp4wLSwWCedlgvet_XCIPX5Oam8S7KXXSeIwMK1hzCNyt8t8x2-DdwrtEVLSra3Q2PiNSim8k15IsH2CFFfXmOJDHBeRXsZawoyWV0joSPa/s1600/Stadium+of+Fire+5.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 321px; height: 330px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0DGiIFLOpbPdijVBXqDp7OP8XkGn88xuNfBp4wLSwWCedlgvet_XCIPX5Oam8S7KXXSeIwMK1hzCNyt8t8x2-DdwrtEVLSra3Q2PiNSim8k15IsH2CFFfXmOJDHBeRXsZawoyWV0joSPa/s400/Stadium+of+Fire+5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626775667698752882" border="0" /></a><br />Brad Paisley was the headline act. I knew he was good, but I didn't know he was <span style="font-style: italic;">THAT</span> good. Wow, his talent was amazing. I'm definitely an even bigger fan now.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtJU3oUt9kyh8THs7BDGK-voeCad3vanRv9px0RdYft5Jsioz9_NQyxv-eFwU2RRdA2R6Qo4x0j-WVKgUI_TmmuZ-Ax-N5umKBdA8bqkXE2gwE30q2UvcLG9MY-CPuv7JLI8Zh9O2qxqMn/s1600/Stadium+of+Fire+1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 323px; height: 276px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtJU3oUt9kyh8THs7BDGK-voeCad3vanRv9px0RdYft5Jsioz9_NQyxv-eFwU2RRdA2R6Qo4x0j-WVKgUI_TmmuZ-Ax-N5umKBdA8bqkXE2gwE30q2UvcLG9MY-CPuv7JLI8Zh9O2qxqMn/s400/Stadium+of+Fire+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626776141439937810" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq4KCZeLhGhvtceaeIJBsT3oTukZ97JpUQ1oqKXZ95YI8cb0qFH0glQv-N0A5jTHPOtt2S1LF-C03pyVHldzINIY23HEMJ8V15dg42i34PAFDqrsdBI89J2-6VxcGEFQ9rX7Y6-QY-o24v/s1600/Stadium+of+Fire+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 327px; height: 275px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq4KCZeLhGhvtceaeIJBsT3oTukZ97JpUQ1oqKXZ95YI8cb0qFH0glQv-N0A5jTHPOtt2S1LF-C03pyVHldzINIY23HEMJ8V15dg42i34PAFDqrsdBI89J2-6VxcGEFQ9rX7Y6-QY-o24v/s400/Stadium+of+Fire+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626776127230434146" border="0" /></a><br />The actual firework show blew my mind. Seriously. The finale was unreal. I kept thinking to myself, "Why is this happening to me? Is this real life?" (quote from <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=txqiwrbYGrs">David After Dentist</a>) But of course, I meant that because it was so awesome!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgTL_mKFs6tZOIzBd1D8hnrkytv4oonn9x5JQ5nD5JcyVBvVG6Qd5r-lGP368BmxfG1z1vLgQcSRk6capv7a4InD6bWQCJApwav5qDN_E3qDjIW7iBd7LnMgWik-0ezEDOZUG8N33qam3Y/s1600/Stadium+of+Fire+7.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 331px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgTL_mKFs6tZOIzBd1D8hnrkytv4oonn9x5JQ5nD5JcyVBvVG6Qd5r-lGP368BmxfG1z1vLgQcSRk6capv7a4InD6bWQCJApwav5qDN_E3qDjIW7iBd7LnMgWik-0ezEDOZUG8N33qam3Y/s400/Stadium+of+Fire+7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626775675610200162" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYnGxdnOFlhw2GOVKeEWz-CJlTAEMuixnkfJB_TErS7GVl2Keu2sKKLLiUqI6O5RJ9FqQKHRqGLqc79JyPr7-5iAtbuESBabxHTlBJWUffztY9pzTj3tATvs1856SWAH_op83vu6g2K22Z/s1600/Stadium+of+Fire+6.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 331px; height: 248px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYnGxdnOFlhw2GOVKeEWz-CJlTAEMuixnkfJB_TErS7GVl2Keu2sKKLLiUqI6O5RJ9FqQKHRqGLqc79JyPr7-5iAtbuESBabxHTlBJWUffztY9pzTj3tATvs1856SWAH_op83vu6g2K22Z/s400/Stadium+of+Fire+6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626775673339310578" border="0" /></a><br />Here is a small clip of one of the numbers. And here is Murphy's Law in action again...right after I turned off my camera, some really sweet fireworks were shot off. Go figure. Oh well, this still gives a taste of what it was like to be there.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dxphDD4QaD1GPnGKPq_-ewunVnLRgqqtcPSNzUp4ETh6mfYJ6s49hUxyL11zk7Pyt6rrrByzDPj96e2jbPAUw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br /><br />After the grand finale. Will I go again? You betcha!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwF2pf5cvp04dDcEubvPCNC-lOi3erCrswAJ51rsbMayIPi1AZ22-G1nFUbu-L1wsWysZKXYu_2N_-UDrCm5a6uihUMDUC1QLocbkL58EuI1aOawPlkBwnxthLuJqptthMOH-1q8iBKAbZ/s1600/Stadium+of+Fire+8.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 317px; height: 285px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwF2pf5cvp04dDcEubvPCNC-lOi3erCrswAJ51rsbMayIPi1AZ22-G1nFUbu-L1wsWysZKXYu_2N_-UDrCm5a6uihUMDUC1QLocbkL58EuI1aOawPlkBwnxthLuJqptthMOH-1q8iBKAbZ/s400/Stadium+of+Fire+8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626775686810833170" border="0" /></a><br />On the actual 4th of July, my family had a big barbecue bash with the grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins...everyone. So my pops fired up the grill and did what he does best!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip95OXqljzXJXpvgBpiGIckeZ-bSvdaV7-Phr2JvrDBtcA-GL_DeXhlJ6p6lozPSxwa2v7YjogjRXw2ABTsFLihKTLDR938nxcWlyyhiBVuxfRYspWenN5XcD_NnP1O-0xt76dqxaa_66n/s1600/4th+of+July+1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 248px; height: 347px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip95OXqljzXJXpvgBpiGIckeZ-bSvdaV7-Phr2JvrDBtcA-GL_DeXhlJ6p6lozPSxwa2v7YjogjRXw2ABTsFLihKTLDR938nxcWlyyhiBVuxfRYspWenN5XcD_NnP1O-0xt76dqxaa_66n/s400/4th+of+July+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626776143820392770" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiodEkJE7qlsPhyphenhyphenKiiiPNW-t5FYfYTglAauM1Mm7y4D6SKK-sJw_FcTnfRpiWXvurNd9S9mA_oK87_rwFdD8GUrWG_z5P8ASMS8OI3RJaIZYvSLqCkw2kicQ_n0X_ZSjVSdsM92ZVkJJlbl/s1600/4th+of+July+3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 334px; height: 265px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiodEkJE7qlsPhyphenhyphenKiiiPNW-t5FYfYTglAauM1Mm7y4D6SKK-sJw_FcTnfRpiWXvurNd9S9mA_oK87_rwFdD8GUrWG_z5P8ASMS8OI3RJaIZYvSLqCkw2kicQ_n0X_ZSjVSdsM92ZVkJJlbl/s400/4th+of+July+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626778022729062642" border="0" /></a>Part of the holiday feast. Mmmm it was tasty!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT3UzIQbarcLC6f3lc_PEtW_VzKess5XkuVmB6NfJd4TKcii8uUrWYOo3coWmpisPgJPzbrqeJfsqTT2zUmdJn9vlWwheQEbVcACbqhezzBLsQH4WrXJTf_rD1oO2gn-BIiTquKpDpy-Z8/s1600/4th+of+July+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 355px; height: 267px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT3UzIQbarcLC6f3lc_PEtW_VzKess5XkuVmB6NfJd4TKcii8uUrWYOo3coWmpisPgJPzbrqeJfsqTT2zUmdJn9vlWwheQEbVcACbqhezzBLsQH4WrXJTf_rD1oO2gn-BIiTquKpDpy-Z8/s400/4th+of+July+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626776150474300770" border="0" /></a><br />My dad and I have a very deep running love for watermelon. He taught me well, and I'm afraid that my love is now stronger. Sorry pops! :)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9H9j9oLH0mTeHNGD8ZcoK90J_Yv_1mk6TAJT5wMlznJkyEV2OBQWtguOl-Q85gCv9CbG0fGAYLwnxfKk9WWXzsiCdVvZtFS6eZxA89j0Y9wZlUkLcQhnYlILnC7LNMZkJTNEi6wC6GwE0/s1600/4th+of+July+4.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 303px; height: 309px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9H9j9oLH0mTeHNGD8ZcoK90J_Yv_1mk6TAJT5wMlznJkyEV2OBQWtguOl-Q85gCv9CbG0fGAYLwnxfKk9WWXzsiCdVvZtFS6eZxA89j0Y9wZlUkLcQhnYlILnC7LNMZkJTNEi6wC6GwE0/s400/4th+of+July+4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626778017562650722" border="0" /></a><br />Matt and his good friend Brynnly.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQV_GqH1UzjswLvjosDlSq9JSF-gqE8ifVFR2lqFNpHU0-zbQtfg1Wa6G1VY9Fb32N2FpLAmOrC-dDTq5Ot944D7R6KLXcCbpoVDz_rWG5RSDYTK8w3IR02N4TY-K18ftkc_9ljWIvZkZt/s1600/4th+of+July+19.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 265px; height: 371px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQV_GqH1UzjswLvjosDlSq9JSF-gqE8ifVFR2lqFNpHU0-zbQtfg1Wa6G1VY9Fb32N2FpLAmOrC-dDTq5Ot944D7R6KLXcCbpoVDz_rWG5RSDYTK8w3IR02N4TY-K18ftkc_9ljWIvZkZt/s400/4th+of+July+19.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626778559542581122" border="0" /></a><br />Not a day goes by in the Bagley household that there is not a rousing game of ball. My cute brothers ballin' it up in the driveway.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizqa7ZOtUzV50NHAvmKtlIunnRiiMLoN9vCm4nr0VTebee_O8m3jPBk28Red6Ba7E3LMNx2cp_xCzJ4_MDuu0B3Y8XHyHHo2UnbBQSsVAu1ysTZo-nYZpwJ01V4dPuW3OVLYfHY7gcdZ6j/s1600/4th+of+July+7.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 256px; height: 362px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizqa7ZOtUzV50NHAvmKtlIunnRiiMLoN9vCm4nr0VTebee_O8m3jPBk28Red6Ba7E3LMNx2cp_xCzJ4_MDuu0B3Y8XHyHHo2UnbBQSsVAu1ysTZo-nYZpwJ01V4dPuW3OVLYfHY7gcdZ6j/s400/4th+of+July+7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626778027042088738" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcJA7UXOi43e67P2Cil2bAYsZYflYDPupc7mIVN1UsUqRqyiQmprRg-ABmmgO50eXt3uPfKWnSo98nIujm52xOFlaStHPINIczUVNtYsmkurOWtC_d6sk_iLNOb2Hd7NWSPF4skdmnbZoT/s1600/4th+of+July+8.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 256px; height: 351px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcJA7UXOi43e67P2Cil2bAYsZYflYDPupc7mIVN1UsUqRqyiQmprRg-ABmmgO50eXt3uPfKWnSo98nIujm52xOFlaStHPINIczUVNtYsmkurOWtC_d6sk_iLNOb2Hd7NWSPF4skdmnbZoT/s400/4th+of+July+8.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626778029289572658" border="0" /></a><br />Brynnly and myself watching the boys shoot hoops.<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTVM7jovnbDohgbDutnGJ_kxd3YAdAVSdM6dRdtmDxSF3L09Nu5MNtcFzAvmdxBeY908LJ4kUA2mkEO6D3OVWXYYSyhuYODYu_rhX0iabEYmB3ZQGybiCerr4qddqwsg5ErW47tPAJTKap/s1600/4th+of+July+11.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 332px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTVM7jovnbDohgbDutnGJ_kxd3YAdAVSdM6dRdtmDxSF3L09Nu5MNtcFzAvmdxBeY908LJ4kUA2mkEO6D3OVWXYYSyhuYODYu_rhX0iabEYmB3ZQGybiCerr4qddqwsg5ErW47tPAJTKap/s400/4th+of+July+11.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626778039644814946" border="0" /></a><br />So, as of late, I have been into cooking. Thanks to <a href="http://www.melskitchencafe.com/">Mel's Kitchen Cafe</a>, I found a brilliant little recipe for a Festive Flag Cheesecake. I had never made cheesecake before, so I figured this was a perfect event to do so. Here is the finished product. Notice the flag? :)<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwsApemh2sqBOtXdgJ1e7-CkjZXMuMpN47krOmNavIwvWq95h1Raz6DZXoL96eZ744aCf7CsU-xZrC7wZ4gXSgdY5F_Thyphenhyphen70RiUY_VVnXviJOAaVYTqO8_wU6EZSozii428gkU6t4hhsGf/s1600/4th+of+July+13.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 337px; height: 228px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwsApemh2sqBOtXdgJ1e7-CkjZXMuMpN47krOmNavIwvWq95h1Raz6DZXoL96eZ744aCf7CsU-xZrC7wZ4gXSgdY5F_Thyphenhyphen70RiUY_VVnXviJOAaVYTqO8_wU6EZSozii428gkU6t4hhsGf/s400/4th+of+July+13.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626778531989931666" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiqncUI7Kh4nnA4qagSyFleFNdYUlAbWs2O135GMTfS2wEzSbwRVWlBbMdmGUnebAQ7Pcq59HzyHyt3W2EIhlLh-6sY47YIt56rzq4aq2c6krma3DJFMv9lI16grqQiVnaJfecZHIYuLYL/s1600/4th+of+July+14.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 332px; height: 273px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiqncUI7Kh4nnA4qagSyFleFNdYUlAbWs2O135GMTfS2wEzSbwRVWlBbMdmGUnebAQ7Pcq59HzyHyt3W2EIhlLh-6sY47YIt56rzq4aq2c6krma3DJFMv9lI16grqQiVnaJfecZHIYuLYL/s400/4th+of+July+14.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626778535169673698" border="0" /></a><br />Three generations right here. These two ladies are who I will one day become.<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWhOHVI0goFCdeVKGu8XFtixtO_32W7qeAl62HTkprNpntoRdOb2KIcv6QDlWWMZE-_tzEbdgog9g70xGVZjFM57vwzQq0TfamLn-yaemf7PM5qG4bKUN3Vsy03CUWcJst-qbYcXBEzajp/s1600/4th+of+July+15.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 345px; height: 275px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWhOHVI0goFCdeVKGu8XFtixtO_32W7qeAl62HTkprNpntoRdOb2KIcv6QDlWWMZE-_tzEbdgog9g70xGVZjFM57vwzQq0TfamLn-yaemf7PM5qG4bKUN3Vsy03CUWcJst-qbYcXBEzajp/s400/4th+of+July+15.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5626778552157442706" border="0" /></a><br />I am sooo greatly blessed. I have a beautiful family and wonderful friends. I feel so lucky to have had the opportunities that I have up to this point in my life. I know that I take so many things for granted, one of those being the fact that I live in a place like America. What a wonderful thing it is to live in a free country and enjoy the blessings that come along with that.<br /><span style="font-size:180%;">I am so proud to be an American.</span> I truly am.<br /><br />Here is a video of David Archuleta singing the National Anthem this year at the Stadium of Fire. He is flawless. You'll see. Directly after his performance, there was an F-16 flyover. You can hear it in this recording as well. What an awesome performance. And what an awesome reason to celebrate.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">America, you sure are old, but I love you.<br />Happy Birthday!</span><br /></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwz8h9fiyPmjv1fpdP38YplhyvLc9Ch5AaJtEF4Bu7fwVFrYVhPIj-WUwLk_Y72-kYAxJm4Ocmabz1ZLr84ow' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-67731664051169968462011-06-12T15:13:00.000-06:002011-06-12T18:48:58.499-06:00My Childhood Dream<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Once upon a time....</span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">(this story is told with mild dramatization. However, it is mostly accurate.)</span></span><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoYNRs7BhhrsF3qbKRx698WHdGs25t5_MtMH2yvV7zo0EQ12yqJKlriKsU2ZnIFom3V5pfl8YDkeaVnkKqDXXFnIb2MYaO_d6K8uZ4_WtLElasuNs2WsDfG4Tkavv1CbM6dLZQ4g0WyDz4/s1600/cartoon_of_a_young_girl_with_her_brown_and_white_puppy_dog_0071-0807-1812-5808_SMU.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 163px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoYNRs7BhhrsF3qbKRx698WHdGs25t5_MtMH2yvV7zo0EQ12yqJKlriKsU2ZnIFom3V5pfl8YDkeaVnkKqDXXFnIb2MYaO_d6K8uZ4_WtLElasuNs2WsDfG4Tkavv1CbM6dLZQ4g0WyDz4/s400/cartoon_of_a_young_girl_with_her_brown_and_white_puppy_dog_0071-0807-1812-5808_SMU.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617475523220267554" border="0" /></a><br /></div>there was a little girl that had a deep burning desire to own her very own puppy dog. She didn't care what kind, indoor or outdoor, she just wanted a little furry pup to call her friend and play with all the time. The little girl's mom had grown up with a poodle and couldn't stand to see a dog stuck outside. However, her dad had grown up with big sheep dogs. He refused to have a yappy little animal shedding hair on the furniture. The compromise? No dog. Nada. Zip. Zilch. Naturally, this shattered the little girl's dreams.<br /><br />For her 8th birthday, the little girl wanted a puppy SO badly all she did was beg.<br />And ask.<br />And beg.<br />And ask.<br />And beg a little more.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMvrAj4DyMoI5Y2om7L-XaGGPS7WLnCoYfGRVQHVgaSO-hD1n7vdw1-1XTc7ZRzHbs7waqgE8ednKQEXDfWpKM8RULeSNTU0jbb5vTRnztlf1krvplb-25PIdlOU4GDknyhIeQZjcX6_7S/s1600/Mia+Story+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 193px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMvrAj4DyMoI5Y2om7L-XaGGPS7WLnCoYfGRVQHVgaSO-hD1n7vdw1-1XTc7ZRzHbs7waqgE8ednKQEXDfWpKM8RULeSNTU0jbb5vTRnztlf1krvplb-25PIdlOU4GDknyhIeQZjcX6_7S/s400/Mia+Story+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617475511302814642" border="0" /></a>Finally, the big birthday came and she couldn't contain her anticipation of possibly getting that cuddly creature. She waited as patiently as she could. When the final gift was presented, she just knew it had to be a puppy. That's all she had asked for, so how could her parents not get it? As the shiny paper was daintily ripped apart, a box emerged containing something she never had expected. A puppy! But not the puppy she had asked for. It was a puppy full of cotton batting with curly black fur and smooth button eyes. This was not a living, breathing puppy but a stuffed animal.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgen4OLL_xQXqVpXFY4V3I21joOdqNHxl50wgiB0X6JYu8NZBEP5gUxlDkLHACFU0jmthoiRYPjbinebHRWV15MPENeCp4CD9YMY_KfYhTCxlAfwvCTkdDPFCa_7pYiFvs38s-lk7gQNMS/s1600/Mia+Story+3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 197px; height: 288px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgen4OLL_xQXqVpXFY4V3I21joOdqNHxl50wgiB0X6JYu8NZBEP5gUxlDkLHACFU0jmthoiRYPjbinebHRWV15MPENeCp4CD9YMY_KfYhTCxlAfwvCTkdDPFCa_7pYiFvs38s-lk7gQNMS/s400/Mia+Story+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617475517927184754" border="0" /></a><br />Her parents simply said that this was as close to a puppy as she was going to get. Her little heart broke but she put on a happy face. <span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-style: italic;">"Pepper"</span></span> became her very best friend, following her anywhere and everywhere. Pepper was there to play ship in her bed, was there to watch <span style="font-style: italic;">Arthur</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">Zoom</span> on PBS after a long day of school, was there to watch the little girl dance in the family room, was there to assist with <span style="font-style: italic;">Madeline's Adventures</span> on the computer, was there to climb the tree in the backyard to spy on the oh-so-cute Taylor Pingree playing soccer in his yard, and so much more.<br /><br />As the little grew up, she started spending less time with Pepper and more time with make-up and friends. Her baby brother, Jared, began to take Pepper and claim her as his own. The already tattered puppy began to look like a rugrat once Jared toted her around everywhere. However, this little rugrat was soiled with years and years of love. Finally, with button eyes chipped off and batting spilling out of the holes, Pepper was put away in the closet....for good. She was a dear friend, but it was time for her to retire.<br /><br />Over ten years later, that little girl-turned-woman, still had a deep love for puppies. She observed friends, cousins and neighbors lovin' on their own puppies and decided that it was time for her family to finally have one. Enough was enough. So she searched the internet for a good deal on a puppy. After a few phone calls, a visit to the breeder, and some seriously intense convincing, the girl finally bought her very own [real life] puppy!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3KBV1IJOx3IFUItoqwmrKPb8-hUK0PY_9XU7L5NhnXshoIEshYWf8CcdPNJIscCQatPRaUe0DJ_3497kG6m2xJYkvvOw2tr5gWQyQmZ2yjyfyLWrQ27X4A8c3xSGPAt1YUQYsTC6bNOCi/s1600/Mia+1.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 191px; height: 329px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3KBV1IJOx3IFUItoqwmrKPb8-hUK0PY_9XU7L5NhnXshoIEshYWf8CcdPNJIscCQatPRaUe0DJ_3497kG6m2xJYkvvOw2tr5gWQyQmZ2yjyfyLWrQ27X4A8c3xSGPAt1YUQYsTC6bNOCi/s400/Mia+1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617476415534100642" border="0" /></a><br />Mia, the 9 month old Yorkie, grabbed a hold of the girl's heart from the first few moments together. Deciding on the name was quite the task, but after failed attempts with Maizy, Rosie, Samoa (because she looked like a Girl's Scout Samoa cookie) and Moa, the name of Mia started to stick. Mia was the perfect puppy, minus the fact that she was not house trained yet. She liked to play outside and explore in the backyard. She liked to perch up right on people's feet and take a nap. She really only barked when she wanted to get out of her crate in the middle of the night for a potty break/play time. But just as any other puppy, she liked to chew on the rug and had zero control over her bladder. The girl and her mother cleaned up quite a few "accidents" inside the house. Needless to say, the puppy required a lifestyle change for the girl's family. But one that she wanted to make, oh so badly!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcR50hKm8xzfy78y3wozWWZ2t0x1AA0PkgbOmW1cUhKmigUfQmlVwmKyLw1JcFR30rsjBnrRL4IorblVteB1tjyW-B52fdFzDGDJ6x7jh0V4DF5tfyn92xPHi1HCe0B-uHokvQstIBv_A_/s1600/Baby+Mia+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 338px; height: 305px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcR50hKm8xzfy78y3wozWWZ2t0x1AA0PkgbOmW1cUhKmigUfQmlVwmKyLw1JcFR30rsjBnrRL4IorblVteB1tjyW-B52fdFzDGDJ6x7jh0V4DF5tfyn92xPHi1HCe0B-uHokvQstIBv_A_/s400/Baby+Mia+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617477346753955858" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVrnljkXoGLHKmjN-cydA0p37io4J-P4vrmEIsGo5t6exEVWDpmIcEmJXURZXqrvWxNZZPPvMn8Y7aNYDDLz9ap3RvPGGdqw9Q3TaZGdhvcboEfHN2XQo7OyjgZ-rg7M9m0vVgllYZ_-2H/s1600/Mia+3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 331px; height: 291px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVrnljkXoGLHKmjN-cydA0p37io4J-P4vrmEIsGo5t6exEVWDpmIcEmJXURZXqrvWxNZZPPvMn8Y7aNYDDLz9ap3RvPGGdqw9Q3TaZGdhvcboEfHN2XQo7OyjgZ-rg7M9m0vVgllYZ_-2H/s400/Mia+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617477343141161730" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr4XmGcbSLsLl7PUZjP3-mv_hYbfgehRiP-bhgYIyms-wjNID5UCYF-F-NpaMCRx4EyodsFCMVoIej6Ly4E5pRHZiYbX03v7A1OjMs56Sc-urO7kujcnppH9xMwNXVunEnuUYNhRdg-wlr/s1600/Mia+2.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 214px; height: 338px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr4XmGcbSLsLl7PUZjP3-mv_hYbfgehRiP-bhgYIyms-wjNID5UCYF-F-NpaMCRx4EyodsFCMVoIej6Ly4E5pRHZiYbX03v7A1OjMs56Sc-urO7kujcnppH9xMwNXVunEnuUYNhRdg-wlr/s400/Mia+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617477037600634290" border="0" /></a><br />The girl however had a job and a life to attend to. She woke up early with Mia to play and spent every extra minute with her that she could. But current jobs made it a little difficult to be with her always. The girl's mother began spending countless hours with the pup, which was not going so well. After frustration, reassessment, conflicting opinions and even a few tears, it was decided that Mia couldn't stay with the girl's family long term. That day, the girl posted an ad on KSL for her precious Mia. Within the next two days, there were interested buyers.<br /><br />Five days after the purchase of Mia, the girl and her mother were traveling down to Layton to meet the soon-to-be-new-owner. The sweet puppy slept soundly in her kennel to the hum of the car. Few words were exchanged during that car ride. It was bittersweet for the both of them.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">The End.<br /></div><br />[Now, have you ever heard of a story beginning with <span style="font-style: italic;">"once upon a time</span>" end<span style="font-style: italic;"> </span><span>unhappy? Nope. Neither have I. And this story is no exception. Let me continue to the reeeeeal ending.]<br /><br />The girl and her mother arrived in Layton on a Saturday afternoon. The biggest concern for the girl was that the new owner (who had provided very little information) would not treat Mia with the kind of love that she deserved. What kind of home life would she be living in? Would she be stuck in a kennel all day with no one to play with? Would she be fed enough food? Even after just a few days, the girl had some deep ties to this puppy of her dreams.<br /><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbQMBYx73e33olD6AtdMeFSWwXZGoexmTmOUV13B7jVd62PWHTe3_3668BfMXimlcMC_VWu2fbfChdJoc9OwtlnVcNB2LrhyphenhypheniOpn6rzWdx5IY5iDsDTgcHO1aiNVvUOPxhPdx_mu1nNlf4/s1600/Mia+6.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 333px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbQMBYx73e33olD6AtdMeFSWwXZGoexmTmOUV13B7jVd62PWHTe3_3668BfMXimlcMC_VWu2fbfChdJoc9OwtlnVcNB2LrhyphenhypheniOpn6rzWdx5IY5iDsDTgcHO1aiNVvUOPxhPdx_mu1nNlf4/s400/Mia+6.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617477041986704418" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGCXBgqEz6eWuQ-Nb1st8BmEnEHlNAYFGDyXv4lE1GmCMnfEsic3vzAJBQLEG_Xrk9JuVLTBufNYJH-wKqAUlSivI_46XmU-rX5eTb3UqnBCOiecTOFA1_cY6_dkQpTAbZRItgeE4-Wnj2/s1600/Mia+7.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 243px; height: 364px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGCXBgqEz6eWuQ-Nb1st8BmEnEHlNAYFGDyXv4lE1GmCMnfEsic3vzAJBQLEG_Xrk9JuVLTBufNYJH-wKqAUlSivI_46XmU-rX5eTb3UqnBCOiecTOFA1_cY6_dkQpTAbZRItgeE4-Wnj2/s400/Mia+7.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617477045392412978" border="0" /></a><br /><span>Ashley, the new owner, was an answer to prayers. She couldn't wait to see Mia and welcomed the little pup with a giant hug and belly rub. Ashley had worked in kennels before and said she "loved training puppies". She had a group of friends who all recently purchased Yorkies, and couldn't wait to join in on their puppy play dates at the park. Her boyfriend and his father had chipped in a little to help her pay for the dog, because they knew how badly she wanted one. We chatted for a bit, exchanged contact information, gave her all of Mia's belongings and then had to do that thing that the girl had been dreading....saying goodbye. One final hug and kiss on the head was all that the girl could give this puppy she had wanted her whole life. In the arms of her new owner, Mia sat in the front seat of a large Ford truck and headed off to her new life in Salt Lake.<br /><br />An odd feeling of emptiness came over the girl. A feeling like her closest friend had disappeared. But moments after, a sense of happiness washed over. Mia was in good hands. She had a new family that loved and wanted her, just as much as the girl had. She had someone who could spend quality time with her and had new Yorkie friends to meet. Would Mia even remember her short experience with the girl? Most likely not. In fact, Mia probably forgot about the girl a few hours later. But the girl will forever remember Mia as her first puppy and most importantly as her childhood dream finally coming true!<br /></span><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicWmi300h7kYvFlCxEkI9AOsS95Udt6KcquVp6mfDZs-8LSW0xYn8LxAmAbgVoFYEmxaQ6gywMeF3YszlNYI11FClrGUzv7qAfctbJDwFHCefYETGF1Lgc925kwDZIdEBzrkFXGyMOocso/s1600/Baby+Mia.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 219px; height: 301px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicWmi300h7kYvFlCxEkI9AOsS95Udt6KcquVp6mfDZs-8LSW0xYn8LxAmAbgVoFYEmxaQ6gywMeF3YszlNYI11FClrGUzv7qAfctbJDwFHCefYETGF1Lgc925kwDZIdEBzrkFXGyMOocso/s400/Baby+Mia.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617499544907395010" border="0" /></a><br /><span>So with Mia in a good home and new dreams for the girl of owning a puppy (when she has her own family), they all lived...<br /><br /></span><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Happily Ever After.</span><br /><br /></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6TvIJcDfgDER0sf5lImal2yQv_lJpKyWhKNj7uNE1ycA4j_fVOc5oBjB9YgWTNd_RwYHqeKzaLMM5kC4_RBeyRJ-dyLvif-kFCQdVrW-DASHoecP1rzbpQRNqdey7FFp0YfxBF_DH3USN/s1600/Baby+Mia+3.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 386px; height: 315px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6TvIJcDfgDER0sf5lImal2yQv_lJpKyWhKNj7uNE1ycA4j_fVOc5oBjB9YgWTNd_RwYHqeKzaLMM5kC4_RBeyRJ-dyLvif-kFCQdVrW-DASHoecP1rzbpQRNqdey7FFp0YfxBF_DH3USN/s400/Baby+Mia+3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5617477355320295266" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">The End.<br /></span></div>Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-59490630202271507212011-05-24T21:58:00.006-06:002011-05-24T22:10:54.633-06:00"Movin' Our Bodies Blues"<div style="text-align: center;">It has almost been three weeks since I started my music class.<br />Three more days, and it's over.<br />Time, why do you go so quickly?<br /></div><br />Well, the end of class means finals week. Woo hoo! (with a heavy dose of sarcasm). So for my final teaching project, we had the opportunity to go into a classroom and teach a song to the kids. I got in contact with Mrs. Williams, my mentor teacher for my previous block of practicum. She was actually my Kindergarten teacher back in the day, so it was so much fun to be able to spend five weeks in her class as a Level 2 student. She now teaches 1st grade, and holy smokes, those little 1st graders just melted my heart. I don't know if it is because this is the age group I'm meant to teach, or if I just had one incredible experience, but I'm kind of sold on teaching the younger grades when I finally have a classroom of my own.<br /><br />Anyway, I was able to go back to her class today with Heather for our final project. And let me tell you, we were welcomed with lots of sticky hugs and excited children. Those kids make you feel like you're a celebrity. "Miss Bagley!" "Miss Bagley!" I will always have a soft spot in my heart for them. And they were so darling to participate for the activity today. We taught a song titled "Movin' Our Bodies Blues" and one called "Goodbye, Everyone". We were required to film it to show our professor and Heather, the talented girl she is, posted it on Youtube so I could have a copy.<br /><br />Check out these sweethearts that I got to spend a month with. Jealous? Here is just a taste of what I'm looking forward to doing in the future. It makes me SO excited to think about being a teacher one day. AH! :)<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzTZA-c428gZHG1ChOCI7woP6_rzKjGZvfxVswF5zdXc9r5v5D2o3I3BTwmh5BUV7q5pG-VuvRNHbYS4YdlVw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3931330510105559299.post-23880978437301111362011-05-15T14:24:00.006-06:002011-05-15T14:31:22.695-06:00Royal Wedding, Disney style.Alright, so the Royal Wedding is kind of old news at this point. It happened a while ago and the hype is dying down. Which means this is probably old news too, but my boss (who is OBSESSED in the Royal Wedding, in every possible way) emailed me this picture the other day and I was blown away. Let's just say that Disney is <span style="font-style: italic;">reeeeally</span> good at what they do. Obviously. See what I mean?<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyaufI1FjYgUPGRrq6xog21kodQcfXYYurd81S6cJ144zb5oII4JC6fSLkdc-0nC5S0Hu6wdHWjSHGSQW5sUvQjyiiwTg5wMRl3o-Is6TzLjGOa_L6PUWd3z7E9RR5b3Bfzb6T_fX9lJTB/s1600/Kate+%2526+William+-Disney.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 392px; height: 455px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyaufI1FjYgUPGRrq6xog21kodQcfXYYurd81S6cJ144zb5oII4JC6fSLkdc-0nC5S0Hu6wdHWjSHGSQW5sUvQjyiiwTg5wMRl3o-Is6TzLjGOa_L6PUWd3z7E9RR5b3Bfzb6T_fX9lJTB/s400/Kate+%2526+William+-Disney.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5607042214164602146" border="0" /></a>This picture is awesome! And the Royal Wedding was just delightful. Kate Middleton is one darling woman. I think everyone has fallen in love with her. I sure have. Well done, Prince William.Megan Michellehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15075470157731222650noreply@blogger.com0