Where are you Christmas?

What a roller coaster couple of weeks, emotionally, physically, and mentally. As I begin to write this post a wave of exhaustion is crashing over my body as the waves of the ocean break. I did it, another successful semester done and under my belt. It hadn't occurred to me until after I completed my last final that I am not officially a Junior. Half way done, part of me is so grateful, the other part wishes it was yet the beginning.

After a semester of countless sicknesses, hard classes, work, and having fun I finished with mostly A's and a couple B's. Constantly running on empty and never feeling caught up apparently works for me, makes me work harder that's for sure. Honestly though I'm not super proud of my grades, because I know I could have done better under normal circumstances.

However, I feel as though I have learned more valuable lessons and material than ever before. Perhaps its because I am basically down to only my major/minor classes so everything taught is applicable to my future, or maybe I'm just absorbing more now. Who knows. What I do know is I have loved learning all that I have this semester. Interestingly enough throughout the semester all of my classes began to overlap. I studied the same event or idea in 4 classes. Each gave me a greater perspective and realization that its good to learn from different sources for as we search and study we can discover more of the truth. This makes me excited for future semesters as more of my classes relate to each other and I can study the same events in more detail.

I have learned so much this semester, about subjects of the world along with about myself. I learned I actually have a good shot with a rifle, literally. Shooting is one of my new hobbies I won't lie. I look forward to going more in the future. :) I have learned that I will never be a perfect homemaker, for I FAILED. (haha) No but seriously, I got a B in my homemaking class. Kind of ridiculous if you ask me.. I have discovered that I have a knack for making ugly sweaters.
In fact my sweater was so great, I had people wishing it was theirs and saying they would steal it left and right. :)

I have come to know how truly fragile life is. Almost two weeks ago a friend of mine from home passed away. It was hard coping with his loss, he was only 20 and had so much life ahead of him. I am saddened by his passing and probably always will be, but I am thankful for the realization it has given me, prompting a deep examination of my life.

I have a lot to be thankful for this holiday season. Perhaps what I am most grateful for is the discovery, that true happiness has enveloped my life. Pure happiness, the kind when even though the frustrations of the day cloud the brain we still feel happiness.

I am excited to go home for a quick two week break and then be headed back to Rexburg to start another semester. Let the good times roll!

*And She Continues to Live, Happily Ever After*

Walking in a Winter Wonderland

I've been a little behind on this whole blogging business. Life is getting crazy with the semester ending this next week. I can't tell if I'm excited or nervous. It's finally hitting me that I will no longer be living in the same apartment or with any of the same people. After two semesters together we have a lot of memories and its going to to be weird not see any of them every day. I already can't wait to go to Alicia's wedding in February so I can see everyone! :)

Classes have been great this semester, I can't even begin to describe all of things I have learned. I just wish my mind could be more like a sponge and absorb everything I am taught. I try so hard to remember everything but I'm afraid that I am missing things! This whole going to school year round is like a double edged sword.. I get to learn all the time, which is great! Except I'm going to get done early, which means my time in the University learning everything I can is coming to an end faster.. However, not going year round means I have long breaks without learning.. Might just have to go to graduate school so I can be in school much longer and continue to learn :)

Work is going great! Conner (Buzz) is letting me play with his Toy Story toys, and is using his imagination more than I have ever seen. We are "entering" the books and acting out all of the pages and adding our own fun to each. This is the most rewarding "job" I have ever had. I'm telling you I learn more about myself, life, patients, and love every day I work with him than I thought possible. His laugh is contagious, even if I don't have a clue what he's laughing at. His imagination is invigorating. His love is pure. We could all learn so much from his example, I feel blessed to be learning from him as much as he is learning from me.

The other day Conner was playing with a newer toy, I looked at him and said, "Buzz I love your new toy! Who gave it to you?" He simply responded, "My Father." I smile and said, "OH yeah!? Your Mom and Dad gave you a new toy! That is so fun!" He turns his head, looks straight in my eyes and says, "No, my Father, the one in Heaven." That was that, all I could do was smile at him. I have tried to keep his attitude with me this week and remember that our Father in Heaven gives us everything, big or small. And I'm grateful for everything He is willing to give me.

Life's going great. I was asked by my history professor to be his TA next semester! I am SO excited. I can't begin to explain it. He told be I can teach a few lectures since I'm an Ed major to start getting experience. Next semester has a lot of fun coming toward me. Bring it on! :)

P.S. It was 36 degrees today! So warm :) Isn't it pathetic that I think that is warm? I didn't wear tights with my skirt, and wasn't even cold! Hallelujah! Keep the sunshine and warm weather coming! :)
*And She Continues to Live, Happily Ever After*

Attitude of Gratitude

I sure am grateful for Thanksgiving! Awesome food, family, and no classes! I have surely enjoyed a week off of school, sleeping in has probably been the highlight. I never sleep in past 8:30 or 9 at school so being in bed till 10 is such a treat!

The break started off with a little bit of magic by seeing the midnight premier of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1. Fantastic? I think YES! I cannot wait to see it again, and again, and again. Breaking curfew for Harry Potter was SO worth it, take that honor code police :) haha Seriously though, if you haven't seen it.. Get off your lazy butt and go see it! You won't be disappointed.

Friday was spent in class, packing, and then traveling to Utah. I spent the weekend with my Mom and Grandma Donna putting up Grandma's Christmas decorations. The rest of the week was spent relaxing. Playing with the kids, watching movies, and cooking. Success? I think YES! I have gotten the little bit of homework I brought, but just took the time to enjoy family and a break from studies. Hard to believe in just 3 weeks the semester will be over.. YIKES! In two weeks half of my finals will be over.. This is some seriously crazy stuff.

Back to the Burg in the morning to study and get ready to the week!

*And She Continues to Live, Happily Ever After*

Forget Fall, go straight to Winter!

Today Rexburg came back to me.. No longer are the days of sunny and fun fall weather. No, today we were hit with about 5 inches of snow and don't be fooled it hasn't stopped yet. Just yesterday I was in jeans and a t-shirt with absolutely no clouds in the sky. Way to go Rexburg, you couldn't wait any longer to show your TRUE colors huh?

Although its snowing I am thankful that it isn't too cold, yet. At least the snow is pretty and Rexburg is cute, so that makes it pretty cute! Right? For now at least. I must say I feel bad for the poor freshman who probably thought Rexburg had great weather since the first snow of the season is a month late. Ha-ha, poor little freshman. (I can say that you know, since I'll be a junior next semester) :)

Let me catch ya'll up on my oh so not eventful life. School is going well, my grades are climbing back up. Slowly but surely.. "I think I can, I think I can." Have you ever wondered why it is so easy to lower your grade yet almost impossible to raise it? I hate that.. It plain sucks.

I had the perfect get away weekend this past weekend. My roommate Alicia and I drove to Utah, good-bye Rexburg! It was so wonderful. I got to see lots of family, what could be better than that.
I went down for Brian, Brittany, and Baby Joseph sealing the Salt Lake Temple. It was fun to watch Jared and Kristi's kids while everyone was inside. They had so much fun running and jumping in the piles of leaves we were making. Cameron is so cute with his spunky/happy personality! Every time a pile was made Cam was right there to run through it and mess it up, so adorable!

Of course it would probably be best for my sanity for me to stay in Rexburg more, since every time I leave I NEVER want to come back. As I watched civilization pass away and attempted to welcome to wide open spaces I couldn't help but long to return to Utah. Growing up I always thought it would be fun to live in a small town.. Why did I wish that? I'm sure I'm in Rexburg now to fulfill a childhood dream. When I thought small town I didn't think small town in the middle of NO WHERE! Its okay Rexburg, I still love you although I do kind of hate you sometimes. Seriously though I know I make fun of Rexburg.. all the time.. but I really do love it. Wish it was 2 hours south but I still love it.

I have my housing and classes for the winter semester, there's no turning back now! :) I'm excited it should be a good semester. Only two more weeks until Thanksgiving break! WAHOO! I can't believe how fast this semester has gone by, its ridiculous.

Life's great! I'm happy, almost fully healthy, started a crazy work out today (the Brazilian Butt-Lift, yeah not kidding about the name.. haha), and am caught up from make up work!

*And She Continues to Live, Happily Ever After*

God Works in Mysterious Ways

What a wonderful couple of days!

These past few days I have been blessed with more time than I thought possible. I'm still extremely tired and recuperating from being sick, yet have found time to get things done. Don't get me wrong, I am still WAY behind and playing catch up. Yet somehow I'm less anxious; I'm at peace.

Yesterday I had another fantastic day at work. A class was canceled for Wednesday giving me more time to study for the two exams I have this week (technically I had a third but I finished that one today). I got home from FHE and enjoyed some quality time with my roommate making homemade BBQ chicken pizza. I then proceeded to deactivate my facebook, yes world Julie Hamilton is no longer on facebook, but have no fear this is a temporary measure until I fully catch up from missing school.

Monday night was really great we had a ward FHE with the stake president and his wife, his wife is one precious lady-not to mention hilarious! Needless to say it was just wonderful, they answered questions about anything anyone had. Amazing how I didn't have any questions to ask yet all of my doubts, concerns, and feelings of uneasiness went away. President Kush (the stake president) wasn't supposed to be in town but missed his flight on sunday and was able to attend, maybe he missed his flight so he could help me personally, along with others. I am so grateful for their council and stories.

This morning began "bright and early" and by bright and early I really mean completely dark, freezing, and early. I woke up just before 5:30 am to be at the Rexburg Temple by 5:45, my ward planned a ward temple trip and since a few of my roommates had 7:45 classes so we needed to be there right away. What a way to start the day, I mean come on its almost 10pm and I'm still completely awake and going strong! (Disregard the quick nap I took during my religion class..) We got out of the temple around 7:30 it was still dark and freezing (LITERALLY). Did I mention I felt my eyebrows freeze and my hair became a bit crunchy? Well.. it did. But hey! It was SO worth it!

I have been SO productive today, and I will give all credit for that to the blessings from going to the temple. I have been able to get a lot of reading and studying done, which is so needed. I took a midterm today and even though I was nervous from missing so much I feel fairly confident in my performance. I went to the library after my last class today and although I had planned on working on my Middle East homework, I decided to spend a little time on my religion homework. Almost 2 hours later I left the library with my religion final finished.. Can you call that being productive? I'm honestly not sure. Yes, I am basically done with one class.. But I didn't study for my test this week. Productive? Yes. Counterproductive? Yes. So what does that make it?--Nonexistent? Oh but I can assure you, it is not nonexistent for my beautiful "book of reference" is sitting right next to me. *Humph* Either way, I am way proud of it :)

My roommate showed me a quote that was passed out to her in class today. It reads, "If you wait to do everything until you're sure its right, you'll probably never do much of anything." -Anonymous. Basically sums up my decision making process lately. Not to mention the fact that I am one of the most indecisive persons one will ever meet. Lately though, I've been at a stalemate, a crossroads if you will.

Yes, I finally made up my mind on where to live and got a contract living with my most wonderful best friends Jordyn and Whitney along with other friends. Although I am sad to be leaving my wonderful ward I am excited to embrace a new location, winter semester, and another journey of life.

As I am faced with millions of more decisions I hope to be more decisive and rely on others for guidance, especially the Lord. Let's face it, He does know best. I am grateful for my challenges and joys, may they continue to flood my life. May we always smile, help those in need, and find joy in the journey.

*And She Continues to Live, Happily Ever After*

The Blessings of Awetism (Autism)

Playing catch up was harder than I thought. Its really hard to do midterms, along with catching up on a weeks worth of homework and exams. I am so grateful for the weekend! Thursday was the worst day of all, 4 classes and 2 tests. Unfortuantely missing so much class is really affecting my studies because I can't even play catch up since I currently require so much sleep.

I just want to give an update on little Buzz, the boy I work with. His mom had told me when I was hired that she had a friend who said autism should be spelled awetism, like the word awesome. I must say, today I saw the reason for that completely! I worked with Buzz for three hours today, and it was the best three hours ever! For those of you who don't know, Buzz has not let any of us working with him (besides his parents) play with his toy story toys, books, or even really talk about toy story.

Today it only took about 5 min for Buzz to warm up to me and for us to talk and play! First AMAZING thing! THEN, he started showing me his Toy Story Sticker books and would let me ask questions and we would talk about the characters. After that we ate popcorn and I read his Toy Story books OVER AND OVER, with him telling me which one to read and talking to me about the scenes. Then, we went back to the sticker books and he would point to the characters and say "Do you see them? Who is that?" and quizzed me on all of the characters. Every time I didn't know the name of one he would give me this "you honestly don't know the answer" stare and I would have to beg for him to tell me the name. We did that for the whole book 3 times, plus another book! That is just amazing!

We played some games where he was completely interactive. We made faces to each other in the mirror, after which he called me weird. (haha) That is so great! He's teasing, I absolutely love seeing his personality shine through. To top off an already fantastic day, WE PLAYED WITH THE TOY STORY TOYS!! He would have me take down the bin, and I could touch the toys (as long as he was holding them) and we would talk about each toy and play with them together! How cool is that!

I feel so blessed to be able to work with this little boy and see the miracle of his progress. I always leave each session with such a love for that little guy and hope for the future. He has already made such great strives. I look forward to seeing his progress in the future. I am so grateful for the happiness he brings to my stressful life.

*And She Continues To Live, Happily Ever After*

Too many times to count.

Well this is probably the 8th time I have tried to write this post. Fact of the matter is I don't want to write another "downer post" but that's basically what part of this one is going to be.. poop. Sorry guys.

Lets talk about last weekend first because it was super wonderful! On Friday (10/8) I took two tests, got an A on one and a B on the other, starting my great weekend. I then went home and made chocolate chip cookies with my friend David Ostler from home. During the baking process my good friend Janae from my East Coast Trip who also happens to live in CANADA called me because she was in town! I was SO excited! My night got that much better when Janae and Liesl came over, we ate cookies and played the most wonderful game of curses. I'd have to say it was a pretty decent day. :) Saturday was even better than Friday, I slept in till 9! WOW that is huge, I'm usually up by 6:30 for my 7:45 class. I thought I was in college and could sleep into noon, but no not me I get up early no matter what. ANYWAYS! So, on Saturday I vowed to do NO homework because of the fact that I had had 4 quizzes and 3 exams that week. It was great, I relaxed, slept, went to the store, and just wasted time until my MATS Reunion.

Almost everyone from our east coast trip went to dinner at Brother Kinghorn's house, and I can't tell you how great it was to see everyone! So wonderful. I had a blast. Unfortunately it ended a bit sooner than we all expected so Janae, Liesl, Rachelle, Thomas, and myself had to plan to go to the Straw Maze so the night didn't end so early. We made the best choice ever! The Straw Maze was haunted which made it even more fun. Rachelle and Liesl were holding on to each other for dear life, and I managed to not be scared and actually told one of the "monsters" to SHUT UP because I was annoyed that I was lost. Ha-ha. Classic. Needless to say it was a great night. :)

The week was then not so great.. I got really sick, like REALLY sick. Couldn't go to class at all the entire week. Missed 15 class hours.. needless to say I slept on the couch. Silver lining: Didn't have to lead the music on Sunday (which is terrifying to me!) AND I lost so much weight I fit my old pants again. (Haha) I'm way behind in school which is not okay.. Especially since its Midterms are NOW.

Here's to a week of lots of naps, even more homework/studying, and playing catch up!

*And She Continues To Live, Happily Ever After*

The GOOD always outweighs the BAD

Talk about a roller coaster week. Since my last post, only a few days ago, I became almost deathly ill (okay okay, just a really really AWFUL cold), became swamped with homework along with tests, and my car broke. Sucks yeah? Yes I would have to agree, not only was I sick but I couldn't even drive myself to the store to get meds or whatever else I needed.

Has anyone ever told you that being sick is much much worse when you don't have someone taking care of you? Well if no has ever told you that I'm telling you now. Its no fun to have to get up and find your own meds, or WALK to jamba juice to sooth your throat (because the car is broken).. Although sitting on the swings with your jamba is quite refreshing. Its hard to get yourself out of bed for class, quarantine yourself enough so that your roommates don't get sick, and try to not be a B student.

Its amazing how one day (or in this case a few) could be so horrible and then the next be so great. Sunday-Tuesday=suck-fest. Then all of a sudden Wednesday was fantastic, AMAZING! My roommate laughed at me when I came home from work and said I was glowing and really bubbly. Truth is I still felt sick, but had a great day at work.

I love my job! Let's be honest, it doesn't really feel like a job. Its exactly right for me. Buzz (the little boy I work with) and I made BIG progress on Wednesday. Truthfully I was a bit nervous since friday was a really hard day. He didn't want me to touch any toys and had no desire to look at, talk to, or play with me. Then because I was so sick I couldn't go on Monday, so needless to say I wasn't quite sure how yesterday was going to work out. Usually it takes him about 45min-a hour to let me play with him, I have to play with toys away from him and once in a while he'll ask for my help. However, on Wednesday it only took about 20 min for him to warm up to me. It was goal to get him engaged into 4 different games or activities, he completely EXCEEDED IT! We played 6 games together. Anything from Race cars- having a Dinosaur town. He "helped" me read books, and "read" some to me. Then to top off an already great day, I pulled out some coloring items (He hasn't colored a picture on his own for about 6 months now, so its my goal to get him back into coloring), last week he colored for me but only about an inch of the paper. Yesterday he colored more than half of the picture! Go BUZZ! I left the room so happy and thankful for the wonderful opportunity I have been given to help this boy realize his full potential. Although I think I might be learning more from him than he is from me.

I guess I'll end my blog post with a quote that my boss read to me a few weeks ago which came to my mind when I was feeling so crappy this week.. "Trials and tribulations are a necessity to life, misery is optional, and happiness is a choice." -Barbara Lunt

*And she continues to live, Happily Ever After*

Vitamins: Friend or Foe?

On to week three of classes here in Rexburg. The weather is great, classes are hard; I'd have to say life's pretty darn good.

I have successfully finished a pillow in my Practical Homemaking class, its not one of those lame pillows its actually quite legit, cut out the pieces, changed the pattern to make it even cooler.. You could call me a seamstress if you wanted.. :) I'll be making a pillow case and an apron this next week, bring it on!

Work is going quite well. Buzz has only tried to kick me out of his play room once, and after punching me in the mouth we became quite good friends. (haha) I got him to color with me (His mom said he hasn't actually picked up a crayon and colored for 6 months) so I'd say that was a pretty big accomplishment. Its the perfect job to have. Not too stressful and the hours are great. I get to leave the stressful world of piled homework to go play with this boy and help him build connections with the "outside" world. I already see how rewarding this job can be and I'm grateful for it.

Yesterday was a very fun and eventful Saturday. I woke up at 8:30 was fed breakfast by the Elders Quorum in our ward. While we were eating breakfast some friends from our ward last semester stopped by and invited us to go out with them that night, however kept the activity a secret. At 2 I went and played football with a bunch of girls from our ward, my team was legit although we lost by one touchdown. So we go to the grocery store parking lot to meet up with our friends and there's this huge group of people, when Tucker and Tyrel are in charge you always have to wonder what kind of crazy yet fun stunt you will be taking part of. We split up and get into cars and drive an hour north to Mesa Falls. The guys made a 700ft zip line! So awesome! This is the second or third time they had done it eventually they'll cut the line to make a carol fence. It was SO fun. [Don't worry mom, it was totally safe and the worst injury was me getting hit by a few branches while we went through the forest :) ] You would hike up this HUGE hill and then put on a climbing harness, strap in and go! SOOOOO FUN!!!

Today I woke up sick, not happy about that, and thought to myself what the heck? I take 20+ vitamins a day (per leslies order) and still managed to get sick! I wasn't sick before I took vitamins then all of a sudden BAM I'm sick even with taking a barrel load of vitamin C a day. Goodness, it better pass quickly. Of course then I had to remember that church doesn't start until 1. Death, church at 1 with a backward schedule=death. Oh well. I suppose it allows me to be in my PJ's longer?

Here's to another hopefully great week! I'm off to Sandy on Friday! It'll be a fun weekend! :)

*And She Continues to Live, Happily Ever After*

Blessings from Idaho

I have officially been back in Rexburg for a week now, who knew a week could go so fast yet so slow!! I am in the same apartment of girls this semester which is such a blessing, they are all so great. I was "blessed" to spend $400 on books this semester and have a heart attack once I saw the bill, its a good thing this while education thing will pay off in the long run.

Campus is more beautiful than ever, especially with the new Auditorium almost completed. You want to know what's not beautiful? The altitude! I don't think I'll ever be able to walk from my apartment (south side of campus) up to the Ricks building (on a hill, north side of campus) without losing my breath. I won't lie its pretty embarrassing when you get to the top of the hill *GASP* GASP* and try to smile so you don't look completely out of shape. I want to wear a sign that says, "No I'm not a freshman, yes I work out, I have asthma, and the altitude is crazy, please stop staring." :) Okay okay, its not THAT embarrassing, I just wish it didn't happen but I can honestly say I'm not the only one.

Although my workload is going to be intense this semester I was definitely blessed with fabulous professors. They all love what they do and it shows in their lectures. Its truly an honor to be studying under them and I hope that I can grasp a glimpse of their knowledge and passion. I just wish they didn't assign so much reading..

Again I have a fantastic ward, everyone is so friendly and outgoing its wonderful. I have once again been enlisted to the ward soccer team and this semester we are taking it all! Time for the Championships!

I had a fun interview with my Bishop on Sunday.. As we are talking he pauses and goes "Julie you have a musical talent." Immediately my heart starts racing and my mind shouts "OH CRAP! He knows I can play the piano, bad bad bad news!" I looked at him, completely calm of course and said, "Oh? I do?" He chuckles and replys "Well if you don't now, you sure will!" He proceeds to ask me to be the Relief Society Music Chairman aka lead music in RS. I told him, "Oh bishop you don't understand I don't have any rhythm, are you sure?" Well apparently that wasn't good enough, although it did make him laugh. So here I go with a Music Calling. Maybe I'll get over my fear of leading music and playing the piano in front of people, although I think I'd rather crawl under a rock.

Lastly I have been blessed with a job. I will be working as an aide to an autistic child. He's such a sweet boy, 8 years old and goes by the name Buzz Lightyear of Star Command! I can't wait to help him and I'm sure he will be helping me as well. This experience is going to be one of growth, love, and patience.

I'm glad to be back in the Burg, as long as it doesn't turn into the Iceburg. I came across a quote by Aristotle earlier tonight it reads, "The roots of education are bitter, but the fruit is sweet." Well isn't that the truth! As annoying as it is to be reading all the time and studying non stop, I'm excited for a time in the near future where I can use my education to bless the lives of others.

*And she continues to live, Happily Ever After."

Lessons Learned Around the States

I am so grateful for the study trip I was able to attend. I can't really put into words the full extent of my experience. I felt as though I was a sponge soaking up all the information possible, and actually retaining most of it. For the first time I have a pure and sincere appreciation for all of the arts. Who knew I could be so excited about an art museum? I even loved all of the Church Sites, there was a peace that rested at those places that I can't explain. Who knew I could memorize dates of Church History or even know what scriptures went for that time period? I didn't! But I sure did!

I honestly can't express how much I loved seeing all the history sites. To literally stand where truly great men and women who changed the world stood. To see natures beauty in so many different locations. To teach and grow.

I definitely have been bit with the travel bug.. Where to next?

*And she continues to live, Happily Ever After* ESPECIALLY AFTER THIS TRIP! :)

Quick Recap!

I realize I didn't do the best job at blogging about my trip so I'm going to hurry and finish it up because I already have so much to share about this semester!

After Philadelphia we headed into the Big Apple, that's what they call New York right? I must confess New York City was not all that in my book. But that's okay because I did enjoy my time there. We got to see WICKED ON BROADWAY! I do love Wicked, but I hate to say I think I enjoyed the one in SF better.. Don't tell on me. It was still fantastic I just didn't care for some of the cast.. Anyways, I LOVED the MET! Greatest museum I've ever seen! My friend Rachelle made fun of me because I was acting like a kid in a candy store when we were in the musical instrument section. I didn't know instruments could be so beautiful, goodness I loved that place. After the Met we had all day to walk around NYC. The group I was with went to the USS Intrepid, considering I love studying WW2 it was another thing I loved! It was really neat since they transformed the ship into a museum, and we got to go in the Submarine. Pretty sweet! :) Of course I experienced a Under Water Dog, um.. What's so special? Wien-O-Rama's hotdogs were just as good, if not better. But hey it was the New York Experience. We went to Ellis island and got to well not drive but float I guess past the Statue of Liberty. That's pretty much it for New York, its a cool city but I suppose you could say I left my heart in San Francisco.. :)

*And she continues to live, Happily Ever After*

Independence Hall

August 19th 2010
I'd be lying if I didn't say Philadelphia was one of my favorite stops, I definitely acted as a kid in a candy store. I mean to stand in the rooms where the Declaration of Independence and Constitution were signed! AH So cool! I was literally in the room where America said "peace-out" to England! (ha-ha). Seriously I can't even explain how awesome it was to be there.

I gave a presentation at this location on the key differences between those two documents and of course I showed my group the School House Rock "Preamble". My friend from Canada thought it was awesome! :) Apparently they don't watch those in Canada, we spent the next night watching all the classics. Ha-ha.

Back to Philadelphia, I loved it. Saw the liberty bell, first congress hall, the constitution center (with the BEST show/performance if you ever find yourself out there it is SO worth it!), and basically anything else, historically related of course, that you could want to see in Philly.

Had a Philly-Cheese-Steak.. Wasn't too impressed.. Lameo.
Anyways, loved it in Philadelphia! Such a cool place.

*And she continues to live, Happily Ever After*

Great Battle of Gettysburg

August 18th 2010
Going to Gettsyburg was a neat experience. We had the opportunity of taking our day trip in order of the three battles which occurred there. It is so interesting to learn about military tactics of the 19th century. Definitely different then ours today.

In the afternoon we went to visit the Gettysburg Cemetery. I was able to read Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address on the site which was definitely different than merely reading it from a textbook. As we walked the Cemetery it began to sprinkle, ending in a down right pour. I welcomed the rain for two reasons.. 1. It is very hot on the east coast it was refreshing to have a warm rain. AND 2. It added a level of reverence to the site.

How heartbreaking it was to walk the grounds and see numbers instead of names on tombs. Men who were never identified for the losses on both sides were too great. I was so grateful for their courage of Freedom, for both sides of this war were truly fighting for freedom. The words of Lincoln, "We all declare for liberty; but in using the same word we do not all mean the same thing." No matter what "liberty" they were fighting for many thousands of men gave their lives so we may live in this free nation we cherish today.

*And she continues to live, Happily Ever After*

Distric of Columbia, a place where one can truly see there taxes going to good use..

August 15-17th 2010

I loved DC. The monuments but especially the awesome Smithsonian's, I mean thank you tax dollars for actually going to good use. :) It is such a beautiful place, but wait when I say beautiful I most definitely EXCLUDE the terrible humidity and mosquitoes, oh how I hate those insects.

We start our trip of DC off at Mount Vernon where our glorious Founding Father George Washington lived. My goodness, no wonder that man wanted out of office his property is beautiful. It overlooks the Potomac River and is filled with flowers and crops.

Its such a neat experience to get to see where George Washington lived a normal life. His office was amazing: books everywhere, the chair he had while President, an even better chair with a fan on top so when you moved your feet it would fan you (Haha), there was also his pistol, and more cool artifacts.

I got to meet up with Heidi at the Vietnam Memorial. She acted as a very good tour guide and took me around all of DC. As far as China Town goes.. SF 1, DC 0. My two most favorite parts of DC were the Air and Space Museum and the National Archives. I got to see the real Declaration of Independence and Constitution! AH! How cool is that! It gets better, there was a family with teenage girls standing next to me while we were overlooking the Bill of Rights and were wondering why George Washington didn't sign either documents.. Being a future history teacher I couldn't help but answer their questions. It was the coolest thing ever!! I explained to them all that was going on and they kept asking me questions. Seriously, I taught someone something! It was the best feeling ever! But seriously, it was way cool.. :)

Overall I really loved DC, it is a beautiful city, and I had a great time. (Minus the heat and the Humidity!)

*And She Continues to Live, Happily Ever After*

Willy Nilly Williamsburg

Sunday August 15th 2010

Williamsburg Virginia was SO much fun! We started off the day by attending an Episcopalian Church, what an experience. I definitely have some "Holy Envy" for some of their traditions. Not just because Church is only an hour long. :) Really though it was so wonderful to go see.

After the Episcopal Church we went to Sacrament Meeting at a ward in Virginia, how epic. Every one feel asleep for at least part of the meeting! Ha-Ha Including our professors. Hilarious if you ask me, especially because we were all awake for the Episcopal Church even though it started at 7:30.

Colonial Williamsburg is such a great place. If I didn't completely loath the humidity I would actually consider a summer job out there acting back in the 17th century. :) Anyways so we went around to all these different shops and what not learning about the age filling out our assignment.

We went to the brick shop and had the opportunity to actually stomp in the clay which would be used to make bricks for the new blacksmith kitchen they found evidence for and are rebuilding. I had the "lets not and say we did attitude" which is totally fine because I was on a search for water and had no desire to fall into the clay in my cute church skirt. And lets be honest, we all know it's something I would do..

We got to see the Governor's palace, how they made shoes back then, a carpenters shop, and much much more. It was literally entering a different time period, excluding the air conditioning.. It was definitely an eye opener to how these people lived and survived on so little, just hard work and a name.

We also had the opportunity to go through William and Mary University (Not sure the proper name of it now.. just know what I know from my history book..) But gosh, what a beautiful campus. Wish Idaho was a bit more like that.. There are huge lawns for studying and relaxing and rooms where famous Founding Fathers met! How cool is that!? The Blue Room was a famous conference room back then and is still used today. So amazing..

Next stop DC!

*And She Continues to Live, Happily Ever After*

Jimmy Town

First of all please do not hate me because I have failed miserably at posting blogs on the way. This trip is crazy busy, if we aren't at a site we are doing homework, and since we rarely do homework the honest truth is we are sleeping. I'm going to make a post for each of the main places we have been and try to catch you all up on life on a bus..

Our trip began in Jamestown. What an experience, I was sick that day crazy 24 hour something or other I got from the Kids in Utah. It made for a very difficult day in Jamestown Virginia, it was way too hot and we weren't allowed to carry our waters. Did I mention it was hot? The humidity out here is deathly, if it wasn't so pretty out here I wouldn't be able to comprehend how anyone could live here. Sorry Heid, its the honest truth.

Anyways we got to see how they did it back in 1607 when the first English settlers came to the Americas. Learned a lot about the Indians. And heard WAY too many Idaho "jokes" aka insults from our tour guide. I just wanted to go off on him, "No buddy I'm not FROM Idaho, I go to school IN Idaho therefore I have seen and been on a freaking ship before!" I suppose it didn't help that I was feeling sick, but my goodness was he annoying or what.

Its okay, it's all about the experience and it was pretty great to see how they lived and got through things.

On to Williamsburg!

*And She Continues to Live, Happily Ever After*

Cold Showers, Freezing Busses, Warm Famiy

Well, the trip is here! No more procrastination or running last minute errands. I suppose I should start with a breakdown of the last few world wind days..

Monday began at Jared and Kristi's doing some homework, hanging around, and going to the pool. After the pool I was dropped off at the SLC Airport awaiting my bus to good ol' Iceburg, I mean Rexburg Idaho. However, I realized on the shuttle I was never told where to check in only when. This posed a bit of a problem I figured I'd be sleeping at my roommate Loryanne's apartment. The dorm I was supposed to be staying in for a few nights was called Chapman HAlls, and what are the odds that the dorm manager's mother was on my shuttle? Well, she was. She called her daughter and her daughter gave myself, and another girl from my tour a ride to check in. All was well, so I thought..

Tuesday brought a LONG day full of classes, lectures, classes, and more lectures. We were in a classroom from 8am-4pm. When we woke up in the morning one of my tour/roommates for the week ranted about our shower being Freezing and having absolutely no water pressure. "Great.." Just another thing to add to the list of wrongs so far in the last 24 hours. Our beds were hard as rock, noisy as wind, and having no pillow was just not comfortable. However, classes were great and made some awesome friends!

Wednesday was another long day.. All 6 of us washed our hair in either the sink or the bath faucet, pretty hilarious if you ask me. Again hardly any sleep and no breakfast since the campus food court doesn't open till 11. Classes again from about 8-4, couldn't stay awake.. One of my tour/roommate's went with me to work out on campus that evening. The work out was not nearly as wonderful as the HOT shower I was able to take in the Locker Room on campus. One of the most appreciated shower's I've ever taken, right up there with after Girls Camp. I went and had dinner with Loryanne and some friends of hers, I had so much fun. We ate "Chili-Mac", and that's exactly what it was.. Chili and Macaroni and Cheese casorole. Surprisingly quite good. We played a fun "what if" type game and then I headed off to do homework. After some homework, laying in the grass to avoid homework, I went to Walmart with a "roommate" and her cousin. Goodness gracious I haven't laughed so hard in a long time! It was a blast. Oh and "thanks" Mom for my frugalness, it is turning out to be a not so great quality. However, I bought a travel pillow and slept a million times better! :)

Today (thursday) has turned out to be best day thus far. We woke up, packed, and was at the Bus by 8:30. We rode on a completely FROZEN bus from Rexburg to Salt Lake. The "great" thing was only the very far back of the bus was freezing which of course was where I was seated. As we walked off during the only stop you could literally feel the warmth about 4 rows up and it kept getting warmer until the front of the bus. Not cool.. Even with long pants, shoes, and a sweatshirt I was frozen to the bone. I ended up turning on my lap top and doing homework in hopes of the heat warming me up. It worked.. but not well.

Once we got off the bus we all went to the Church History Museum. During one of the student presentations inside I catch a glimpse of the cutest little kids, kids I have seen and love to death. Once Lucas sat down at the table my heart jumped and I got so excited! (Because I knew for sure Kristi and the Kids were in the Museum) I don't know what was said in the rest of the presentation. Right after we have 2 hours of free time, I enjoyed this by going up playing with the kids, and walking temple square with Family. Honestly what else could be better? And hello what are the odds!? The kids were so cute, excited, and happy! Samantha and Lucas did NOT want me to leave, which of course made me feel good :) It was such a wonderful surprise. After I left Kris and the kids we checked into our Hotel and hiked up Ensign Peak. WOW. Who knew I used to hike mission peak.. this hike was much easier but I'm telling you I had no desire to hike it. Ha-Ha. Once I got up to the top I ended up enjoying it.

Overall it has been a crazy and awesome couple of days. Off to Williamsburg tomorrow. Hello Heat and Humidity!

Life is great, I'm still healthy (thank goodness!), and having a great time.

*And She Continues to Live, Happily Ever After*

Wonderful California!

I just spent two wonderful weeks in California visiting family and friends. Who knew a born and raised Californian could forget how wonderful the weather is out there. I was in complete shock! Everything was green and beautiful, and I even got some sun! (Don't kid yourself, it was merely freckles not a tan).

I spent most of my days in Sacramento at my parents apartment. Hanging out with my brother Wayne as much as possible when he wasn't working. He took me swimming, shopping, to run errands, rope swinging, and we both got hooked on WII Fit! Unfortunately I lost almost ALL of my gold crowns because he was so determined to make himself champion. As much as I tried, I could not beat his times, usually only coming within a second behind. How frustrating is that?! If you know me well enough, I do not admit defeat so easily. I have already called for a rematch as soon as I come visit again, and you can be certain I will win. :)

While in Fremont I spent a lot of time with my brother Scott, watching movies, and watching him shop since we all know I'm a college student which means being poor is a given (ha-ha). Scott figured out my frustration with eating out so much and made me dinner! He scored major brownie points that day. The other times were spent with my cousin Krystal getting her ready to go to Haiti for a relief effort. It was good to see her and catch up.

Oh and how could I forget! I was even lucky enough to spend time with my second family the Grants! I loved hanging out with Jana and all the cousins. They are so awesome, and know how to have a good time :)

My last adventure of the break was going to my wonderful friend Beth Avon's graduation party. Cathy (her mother) truly out did herself on this party. Nothing was forgotten in this Western Extravaganza. There was a live band, hay, barrels, wagon, and a life sized horse! I had a blast dancing, being with my family, and my other second family. :)

Overall California was a fantastic break. Exactly what I needed, although I suppose it didn't quite allow me to get my homework done.. Oh the joys of college life. I am grateful for my fast trip home, and cannot wait to embark on the new adventure of traveling all over the east coast starting tomorrow!

Life is wonderful! And if you are ever in Sacramento and in the need of a good laugh, just stop by the Hamilton's and play WII Fit with my parents!

*And she continues to live, Happily Ever After*

Hello Blogging, Good-Bye Spring Semester!

Today at 5:00 I finished my last final of the semester, leading me into "summer" vacation. I'm amazed at how fast this semester has gone by, and I'm excited for all the memories I have been able to make this semester. My roommates this semester have been so wonderful, I can't wait to live with each one of them again next semester. We have gone rock climbing, bowling, swimming, made lots of food together, and have had many many laughs. What could be better than that?

I was able to go home for the Annual Gualala Camping trip over Memorial Day weekend, and man did I have a blast. I wanted nothing more than to stay in CA forever! It was so fun to see family and friends. I went to Jared and Kristi's for Fathers Day weekend, and loved every minute of playing with the Kids. The following week was my 19th Birthday, which turned out to be so fantastic. My Mom drove up from Utah and completely surprised me at my apartment! We had a nice day going to lunch and shopping. My roommate Alicia received major brownie points by making me birthday breakfast crepes, and taking me to dinner. We were then joined by other roommates and friends at the bowling alley, and of course topped the night off with more friends and ice cream cake!

The 4th of July was a wonderful weekend full of nothing, quite literally. I watched more than 5 movies, ate lots of desserts, and did practically no homework. Is there anything better? On the 10th of July I had the wonderful chance to go to Utah to spend time with Family. We went swimming in Mike and Linda's new pool and had a family barbecue. We then went to Taylor and Carly's wedding reception. It was great to see so much of my wonderful family in one day. I just love them all!

My wonderful friend Janiece came and visited the weekend before finals (last weekend) and we had a blast! We watched movies (how to train your dragon was amazing! again), made jokes, walked around campus, and went Bridge Jumping! I had so much fun! We drove out to Monkey Rock and literally just jumped off the bridge into the water. Of course watching others go before us so we knew we wouldn't die or anything. :) I can't wait to go again in the Fall and take any other friends who would like to join me. Come on over and visit!
I am so thankful for this semester of learning, love, and growth. I have truly learned so many wonderful lessons. I am thankful for life and happiness.

*And she continues to live, Happily Ever After*