"We're Burning Down The Night, Shooting Bullets At The Moon."

Summer is here, I don't care what anyone says.

My shoulders are sunburnt, I come home every day covered in dirt, almost all of the ice is off the lake (we all know what that means - swim time this weekend!), calving/lambing season is over with, and leaves are imminent. 

Sounds like summer to me. 

Other than sorting seed potatoes and doing some planting prep on the farm, work has been pretty uneventful, which honestly I'm kinda thankful for. I forgot how much I enjoyed the mellow season on the farm, before all the people start coming out and the place turns hectic. 

Catching the sunset has been crazy hard this week on account of all the 4-wheelers and trucks down on the river bed kicking up the dust, but I got a shot this weekend sitting up top on the deck. Even though I complain about living out in the middle of nowhere, it does have its perks. 

Met with a personal trainer this week at the gym (apparently its mandatory for new members, psh) and got some tips for building my core. I've had sore stomach muscles ever since too, thank you sir. 

Went a looked at more lambs this weekend. Gosh dang it they were beautiful! Now that I've spent a year at school and gotten just a little taste of what the stock is like down in the lower 48, I had a good time checking out the newborns here. 

I pretty much fell head-over-heels in love with this ram lamb. He made me want to start up a flock of my own even though I have sworn to myself I will never raise sheep again. I may or may not have lied. 

After looking at sheep, there was grocery shopping that needed to be done for the cow, which just kinda made me laugh. 

I did get some funny looks in Walmart. Oh well - farmin' and proud of it. REPRESENT. 

This weekend was pretty chill though otherwise. I helped out with a Relief Society function (I taught a little restorative yoga session, fun!) and spent alot of time in the sun. I figure I gotta get all the time in I can before it snows randomly in July. 

And I even made it to the YSA ward this week. It felt good to be back around people my age. Family wards just don't feel quite right anymore. Gotta enjoy my youth! 

Well enjoy your Sunday evening, mi amigos!

(Four more months 'till Rexburg!)

"This Life I Live, It Might Not Be For You, But It's For Me."

So I'm pretty sure I skipped a week. Oh well. Life happens.

Alrighty, so I have officially finished my first year of college! Woot woot - I am no longer a freshman and it's about dang time. So I figured since I'm all experienced now, I'd do another "what I learned at college" post. Here goes.

Community laundry sucks as much as everyone says. It's expensive, you can never get a washing machine on the weekend, people steal your clothes (like come on, folks), and if you're .2 seconds late getting back to the laundry room, someone dumps all your freshly washed laundry on the nasty floor. I have never appreciated a private laundry room as much as I do now. 

You can escape the "Freshman Fifteen". It just requires lots of gym time. It is inevitable that you will eat like crap all through finals, midterms, any exams, roommate dramas, holidays, and basically every day. But as long as you run that off on the 'ole treadmill, your pants should still fit by the end of your first year.

Caffeine will save your life. Energy drinks were just another thing I never appreciated until college. But I tell you what, they'll get you through any last minute paper or homework assignment you're working on at three in the morning. Also they make a great substitute when playing pong. #mormoncollege

You will actually use that math that you learned in high school that you said you'd never use. Algebra, trig, and calculus may seem pointless now, but turns out, they're pretty handy when college comes around. I know I'm not the only one who complained all through high school because the formulas seemed useless, but I had to take back everything I said when those same formulas helped me to determine the yield grade on beef carcasses in class. 

Not everyone sticks around. Especially if you go to BYU-I 'cause everyone gets married. But in general, that was something I had to learn pretty quick. You'll make those good friends that'll stay with you through a few semesters (maybe even a few school years), but alot of people you'll lose touch with as soon as class ends. And that's okay - you don't need three-trillion friends to be happy. 

Go into the roommate situation with a good attitude. Having roommates is never really ideal, but I know from experience it works out better if you don't go into the semester hating these people you haven't even met yet. Heck, maybe you'll even love the girls! Also, don't judge future roommates by their facebook profiles - it seriously does zero good. 

Make sure you study what you love or you won't want to keep studying. I went into my first year as an exercise physiology major, because I knew a career in that field would make good money and I figured I'd enjoy it. However, after taking a livestock reproduction class as an elective, I realized that agriculture was really where my interest was. I put off switching my major until the last week of that first semester, because I didn't want to give up the exercise-phys-major status, but it was the best thing I did all year. Which goes right into...

Don't be ashamed of what you love. This includes your major. You think it was easy telling people for the first few weeks that I'm a beef production major? Heck no. That's gotta be one of the dumbest sounding majors on this planet. But I finally came to terms with the fact that, hey, I love cows - what of it? So whether it's beef production, knitting (*coughAllegracough*), or underwater basket weaving, be proud of that, man. 

You really can do it all. I swear, every time I get on Pinterest I see that little pie chart that says, "College Life: social life, good grades, enough sleep - pick two". Psh, little Pinterest pie chart, you're a liar. It doesn't take Superman to do it all - you can do it too. I did and I'm not even that organized. You just have to realize that occasionally you'll make some sacrifices. Like a couple hours of sleep in exchange for night out with your favorite people. Or a weekend of studying for a test instead of that party. There will be another one next weekend anyway. But yeah - don't listen to the pie chart - time management isn't rocket science. 

Document everything! Pictures, journaling, blogging, instagram, whatever the heck it takes. Memories are great, but you need something substantial to keep them around. Plus it's great to look back on. So take lots of pictures and write down the big things. #butfirstlemmetakeaselfie

Learn how to cook. Do this before you leave home. Or else you will be eating alot of Chinese take-out and instant potatoes. Every. Night. 

Remember who you are. If your teenage years were anything like mine, your father yelled this out the door to you as you left the house each weekend. Let's be real - it got annoying and you mostly just laughed it off. Then you go to college and suddenly you're on your own, without anyone to remind you anymore. Sure, your college years are a great time to discover what you really like and what kind of a person you'll really end up being. I know I learned alot about myself my freshman year, as cheesy as that sounds. I learned that I enjoy washing dishes, I have a knack for writing essays (I'm the master of BS), I fall in love at least once a week, and I have an incredible aversion to bacon. But the most basic things about me never changed and it was something I probably could have been reminded of a few times throughout my first year. You're not going to impress everyone, so don't bother trying. Just stay you and the whole thing works out. 

_______________________________________

Figured I'd throw in a few pictures from this last week back in the great state of Alaska. I've done my best to keep busy and out of too much trouble. 

I missed this little chubster. Can't believe he'll be six in just over a week. Cray.

Got in the first horseback ride of the year! This gal put up quite the fight, but as always, I won. My shoulders, thighs, calves, and basically everything were feelin' it the next day though. 

Went down to the riverbed. I forgot just how beautiful Alaska really is. Those mountains! Gosh dang.

Took a 24 mile walk with mom on Friday. I'll be honest, my feet were killing me. But this view though. 

Spent the weekend with the little sister - making no bakes, caramel popcorn, and watching movies. It's good to be back! (But I do miss Rexburg a little.)

Peace out amigos - stay classy. 

"Now My Life's Another City, Another Picture."

Tomorrow. Finals. Begin.

Ew. 

Can we just like, skip ahead to where I pass all of my classes with flying colors and can stop stressin'? That'd be nice. 

So this week was just uncomfortably lax on homework - which just makes me nervous for what the next week's gonna throw at all of us lucky enough to be hitting the finals. The roommates and I were real smart this weekend and stocked up hard core on Ben and Jerry's. You know we're gonna need those boys to get us through this with minimal tears. 

Also we built a fort. I like to call it Fort Burg - it sounds real official. 

Alot of hard work went into this monument, let me tell you. Careful stacking and precise couch flipping - this was no easy task. But we did it. Darn right we did. And I'm quite proud of us, if we're being honest here.

So then of course we had to pull out the camera and document our accomplishment. I think this is probably the climax of my freshman year right here. Probably the greatest thing I've done in college thus far. Which is saying something. I'm not sure what exactly, but hey, somethin' fo sho. 

We call this our "come hither" look. And sometimes we wonder why we're single. Shocking. 

Anyways, I got to go to the temple twice this week! I figured I should get my time in while I'm here, since I don't have a huge amount of time left. And plus, the Rexburg temple is quickly becoming a favorite place of mine. 

Let's see, what else have we donnnnne this week. 

Well, we watched Insidious 2 last night. The roommates aren't big into scary movies, but I'm trying my darndest to convert them. I think it's working. Probably not, but hey, effort. 

And General Conference was yesterday and today! Talk about amazing! I swear, I remember when I couldn't sit through a session and now I wish they were an hour longer. And can we just appreciate L. Tom Perry's talk for a sec. It was pretty dang powerful. Like, enough to maybe make this girl cry like a baby in a chapel full of strangers.

Tonight we are gettin' camped out in the fort, with Doritos and The Prestige, getting in another girl's night because why not. I'm really, really gonna miss these ladies when I leave. I mean, I kinda like them and all. A little. Lot.

Well, Imma signin' out for the evening, y'all. Wish me luck on my finals. I have the feels I'm gonna need it.

Stay real, chill and classy. Adios mi amigos. 

#selfieweekend

"So Catch Up, 'Cause You've Got An Awful Long Way To Go."

So I was gonna write this yesterday, but I figured I should probably get my homework done instead once I got home - that's what happened.

Last week was a real good one though. Now that the semester's kinda coming to a close, professors are all being pretty lax, which means basically no homework. But I know I'll get hit hard next week when finals start up.

So, Monday was pretty relaxed - got my missionary emails, which is my favorite way to start a week.

Tuesday I spent in the meat lab. Probably more fun than it should be.

We worked with lamb carcasses this week - which I was most excited to learn about of all the species, so it was kinda my thing. But it was our last week in the meat lab, so I was a little sad about that. Oh well, next fall I'll be back at it.

Wednesday and Thursday were just like, gym time and classes. I upped my squat to 120lbs - 125lbs is coming this week for sure. I was gonna try that Saturday but got lazy. Ah well. It'll happen tonight. 

Friday was more classes and I got my storage unit rented for this summer. Figured I oughta get that taken care of. That night the roommates and I went to party, because our weekends together are quickly getting used up. There was a dance on the roof of the parking garage at North Point, so we went to that. I haven't been to an off-campus dance at all this semester, so it was good to get out again. 

It was a good time. And I still got home before 1am, so I consider it a success. ;)

This is what my Saturday looked like. Ben and Jerry's paired with "Water For Elephants", make for a pretty chillaxed day. 

That night there was a 90's themed party, so the roommates and I got all dressed up and went to that. It was fun - definitely more chill than the party at North Point, but we know how to make it a good time. 

This is us trying to be attractive + cool... I'm not sure if we succeeded or not, but that's what happened. We left the party at about 10:30 to come home and order pizza, so I guess you could say we're pretty hard core partiers. 

Sunday was our last time having church with the ward, due to like Conference and such! Which was kinda sad. :( But it's kind of a relief to be done teaching - woot woot. Then we spent the night with friends, like we always do - and it was a good day. 

Good week. 

Alrighty, well, English class is a-calling and I've got to go present my extremely dramatic movie review of Titanic (which is just about one of the best movies to ever grace this planet) to the class, soooo, until next week, my friends. 

Don't forget to stay amazing, por favor. 

"What Good Is A Love Song?"

So the best part of last week was probably when I got to play with sheep, because it's been awhile since I've done that. And by play I mean evaluate them for slaughter, but ya know, same thing to an ag major. 

Other than that, this week has been pretty chillaxed. Or at least, less than exciting. I wrote an english paper, couple religion essays, took a test on the dairy industry. I know, amazing stuff.

I upped my squat max to 115 lbs, which I am incredibly happy with, but I'm going to try 125 this week, because yolo, right. 'Course, it would just be my luck to hurt myself right before the end of semester, so we'll see how this goes.

The roommates and I went to see Divergent this weekend too (girl's night, duh) and it was actually pretty decent. The guy who played Four wasn't my favorite - he was a little too pretty, but all in all, it was worth seeing. Stuck to the book pretty well.

Also finally went to tour North Point apartments this weekend - I figured it would probably be a good idea before actually moving in next fall. L.O.V.E. them. They'll be just finnnnnne for this person. Plus they are literally right across the street from the gym. Location is everything, in my book. 

I started packing some of my things today. Made me a little sad, but I figured I'd better get a head start before finals week comes around in a few. Can I just say though, having to choose which items of clothing to leave here for the next few months is incredibly painful. I'm trying to let go, but it's a process.

A'ight. Sleep is a-callin' to me. But I'll probably go watch Pitch Perfect instead.

G'night pretty ladies and handsome fellas. Stay cool, 'kay?

"Don't Let What They Say Keep You Up At Night."

I can't believe there's only like, three weeks left to the semester. I feel like I just got here and at the same time, I feel like I've been in college forever. Funny how that works.

I meant to get this written yesterday, but ended up getting a little distracted and then was up 'till three working on an English paper. Sleep is so overrated, after all.

Sooooo, highlights of last week -

Got a 92% on a math test. Heck to the yeah. Might just pull an A in that class.

Watched the cattle slaughtering and butchering process in one of my ag classes, which wasn't like super exciting, but the entertaining part was the offended princesses who sit in the very back. Come on ladies, where did you think meat came from?

I went rock climbing for the first time this week too, which let's be real, was actually a good time. I suck at it, but hey, I got to the top of the wall a couple times and that's really all that matters. And the next day I was so sore I thought I was gonna die, so that's always a bonus.

Talked to my bestest friend from back home, who I suck at keeping in contact with. Can't wait to see her again and get back to our Alaskan shenanigans.

Roommate night was Friday night (who needs date night when you've got your girls) and we went to see Monument Men. I'll be honest, I fell asleep partway through, but we went to the eleven o'clock showing so I really can't be blamed for that.

Saturday we decided to have a Harry Potter marathon. We really only got through the first three movies so obviously marathons are not a skill we possess, but it was a good time and made me realize how much I'll miss my people here.

That's basically my week summed up, I'd say.

The closer it gets to April, the more I wish things could slow down just a bit. I mean, I'm looking forward to seeing the family and some specific folks back in the Last Frontier, but a big part of me wishes it could be like a two week visit and then I could get back here to Rexburg. I'm already homesick for the burg and I haven't even left yet, how pathetic is that. When I left Alaska six months ago, I didn't really believe anyone when they said that things would be different when I get back - but it's crazy how right they were. I just hope that the next few months go by fast, so I can get back here to my cows in sexy rexy. And the people are pretty great too.

'Til next week y'all... #butfirstlemmetakeaselfie

"A Lover Not A Fighter - On The Frontline With A Poem."

Midterms, y'all. That basically sums up my week in a word. I honestly don't remember them being so cray last semester, but apparently I just forgot, 'cause they is.

Unfortunately, our entire apartment has been in an anti-homework mood all week, so we haven't exactly been the most encouraging to each other. Butcha know what - ain't no cares have been given.

Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday mostly just consisted of tests and essay writing, with gym time and like, eating thrown in there. Not real sure I slept much those three days - they still kinda blend together in mah mind.

On Thursday things started to chill a little - I went in and got my hair re-colored. Went darker this time, yeah buddy. Getting sick of being called a redhead, plus, it was time for a change.

Went for a chocolate ombre - can't really tell here, but whaterrrrrr.

Friday was classes and homework. I also happened to run into an ex's brother on my way to English - not exactly how I had planned to start out my morning. Then that night we all hung out with Netta's family, 'cause they came to visit for a little bit. Her cousin brought all his roommates (pretty sure all the best looking guys on campus are in that room, no big deal) and by the end of the night, one had my number. Got a date out of it thirty minutes late (apparently he don't waste no time) and it was a good time. Definitely needed the night out!

We spent Saturday in IF, did some shopping, and I got the most fabulous pair of aztec print leggings that ever existed y'all. We didn't get back 'till late and then there was church today. Now we're crashed on our boat (our couches pushed together) and listening to the most ratchet of music. Because yolo.

Annnnnnnd that's been my week.

I've been thinking alot the last couple days about my dad - I don't think this guy gets enough credit. I talked to him on the phone earlier this week and he started to get all choked up before we hung up. Definitely made me think. My dad's a legit hero though guys, and I'm not just saying that 'cause I'm his daughter, but he actually is. He's raised fourteen kids (still raising them actually) and seven of those have been girls, which couldn't have been easy, let's be real. I wasn't exactly the sweetest pre-teen or teen, but the man still put up with me. He always encouraged my piano playing, even when it was painful to listen to, and I don't think he ever said no to me bringing home any animal that I decided I wanted, including two reindeer calves and a three-legged cat. And then there was the abandoned miniature rabbit with dental issues and the blind chicken. But you know what, he never complained. In fact, he's probably my most loving and loyal supporter.

I definitely didn't appreciate him enough in high school and now that I'm out and on my own, I've started to realize what I've had along. I hope my daughters can have a father even half as amazing as my own.

Alright, well that's enough cheese for this post - peace out y'all, stay classy. And attractive, why don'tcha. ;)

____________________

(My dad writes poems, right, and he sent me this one he's written for me the other day. Made me cry, a'ight.)

(Also, not sure why he wrote it in all caps, but he did. So yeah.)

                                   MY LOVING DAUGHTER

I REMEMBER WHEN WE FOUND OUT HE WAS TO US TO BE BORN, A NEW LITTLE SPIRIT FROM HEAVEN NOT THE LEAST YET TATTERED AND TORN.

AS FRESH AS A MORNING STAR AND SPECIAL AS CAN BE,  CRYSTAL WAS SO HAPPY A LITTLE BOY TO SET ON HER KNEE.

DON’T THINK I EVER SAW A MOTHER AS EXCITED AND HAPPY AS SHE, ALL HER DREAMS OF FAMILY LIFE FINALLY GOING TO COME TO BE.

WE PLANNED AND WE DREAMED OF THE DAY WHEN HE WOULD APPEAR, SO EXCITED TO HAVE HIM AND TO KISS HIS TINY EAR.

WE ATTENDED ALL HIS APPOINTMENTS TO VERIFY HIS HEALTH, TO US HE WAS A SYMBAL OF ALL OUR WORLDY WEALTH.

WE PURCHASED ALL THE CLOTHS THAT WOULD BE PERFECT FOR OUR LITTLE BOY, WE SEARCHED AND SEARCHED FOR THAT SPECIAL LITTLE BOY TOY.

THE TIME WAS FINALLY AT HAND AND WE WENT TO THE BIRTHING PLACE, FINALLY WE WOULD GET TO SEE HIS BEAUTIFUL LITTLE FACE.

I WATCHED IN EXCITEMENT AND MY HEAD WAS IN A WHIRLE, THEN WHAT TO MY SURPRISE HE WAS A LITTLE GIRL.

WE BROKE THE NEWS TO CRYSTAL AS EASY AS COULD BE, AT FIRST SHE DIDN’T BELIEVE ME UNTIL SHE GOT TO SEE.

SO WE CHANGED OUR WAY OF THINKING FROM RAISING A GIRL INSTEAD OF A BOY, HAD TO LOOK FOR PRETTY NEW CLOTHS AND TO FIND A NEW LITTLE GIRL TOY.

CRYSTAL REALLY COULD HAVE CARED LESS ABOUT THE SEX OF THE FIRST LITTLE CHILD, ALL SHE WANTED WAS A BABY WHO WAS HEALTHY AND MADE HER SMILE.

WE NAMED THE CUTE LITTLE BUNDLE ASHLEENA AND WERE BLESSED TO WATCH HER GROW, SHE BLOSSMED LIKE A ROSE AND WAS PURE AS THE DRIVEN SNOW.

NEVER SEEMED TO AMAZE US OF ALL THE TALENTS THAT SHE HAD, SHE WAS SMART, WHITTY AND CHARMING AND RARELY EVER SAD.

I LOVED TO LISTEN TO HER PLAY THE PIANO AND IT NEVER EVER GOT OLD, NOW SHE GROWN AND GONE AND WITHOUT THE MUSIC THE HOUSE SEEMS SOMETIMES COLD.

SHE RAISED AND LOVED ALL ANIMALS AND HAD A SPECIAL HORSE, SHE WAS KIND AND FRIENDLY TO EVERONE AND VIRTUE WAS HER FORCE.

SHE ACCOMPLISHED SO MANY THINGS IN THE SHORT TIME SINCE HER BIRTH, LOVED AND TOUCHED THE LIVES OF MANY IN HER SHORT TIME UPON THE EARTH.

NOW SHE’S ON HER OWN AND LEFT THE SAFTEY OF THE NEST, LOOKING FORWARD TO FULL FILLING HER LIFE SHE IS NUMBERED AMOUNG THE BEST.

WE MISS HER VERY MUCH AND KNOW THAT GOD EVEN LOVES HER MORE, SO MANY THINGS AWAIT HER SO MANY THINGS IN STORE.

AND SO IT DID NOT MATTER BE IT HE OR SHE THAT HEAVENLY FATHER SENT, WE WOULD NOT HAVE TRADED HER FOR THE WORLD OR A LIFETIME OF EARTHLY RENT.

WE HAVE BEEN SEALED AS A FAMILY FOR ALL TIME YOU SEE, WE WILL ALL BE TOGETHER THROUGHOUT ETERNITY.

"Call My Name Or Walk On By."

So, this week I've been kind of obsessed with that song, Don't You Forget About Me, by Simple Minds and I have literally played it on repeat for the last seven days. Sorry roomies. It only happened 'cause I watched The Breakfast Club on Monday and my word... good movie, if ya want to get choked up at the end. It'll do that to you.

Okay, so this week... Monday I was sick (hence The Breakfast Club). But it was only a one day thing so no biggie. 

Tuesday I upped my squat to 105lbs. Whichhhhh was kind of a big deal for me okay. 

Nothing too exciting on Wednesday or Thursday. But on Friday, yo, I baked a cake. 

That's right, I did that. All by myself without any maternal help over the phone. Though I was tempted, I'm not gonna lie. The cake was for Netta 'cause it's her birthday today! Yeah, she's an old woman now, but we love her anyways. 

We threw her a little partay Saturday night and invited some of the best people in Rexburg, no big deal or anything. It also decided to snow on Saturday, which if you ask me was kind of rude, because the snow had just all melted and it was warm and I was like, "yeah, spring is coming", but then no. Still a little TOed about that one. 

Also on Saturday I went with mah groupies to see Non-Stop and Son of God. Both of which were pretty dang good. Especially the second. Movies about Christ always get me - I was crying within the first five minutes. Embarrassing. 

Since today was Sunday there was church (obviousssssly) and Netta taught an amazing Gospel Doctrine lesson. Plus, I learned something new, which was exciting - apparently Isaac (like Abraham's son) was anywhere from 16-20 years old at the time when his father went to sacrifice him, which I'd never really realized and kinda changes the story alot. The things you learn in Sunday school.

Tonight we went to the CES broadcast at the conference center here and listened to Sister Burton speak. It was really, really good. I hadn't originally planned on going, but I'm so glad I did. Plus, Sister Burton is probably the cutest little lady I've ever seen in my life. Can I look like her when I get that age? Please and thank you.

Then we went and spent the rest of the evening with some friends and ended up having an unexpectedly good night. Today gets a solid A from me. 

Now this person is pretty much exhausted, sooooooo... Peace out, my brosephs. :)

"I'll Be The One You Won't Forget."

Wow, y'all, I'm just ready to be done with this week. 

It was a long one. I think I've officially reached that point in the semester where I am just done. With errythang. So apologies in advance to my roommates who now get to deal with the full-on real me. It's a comin'. 

So Monday was boring. And so was pretty much all of Tuesday except when I got home and my lovely roommates informed me I had mail, which just happened to be the most adorable valentine from an equally adorable missionary. Like, what a sweetheart. 

(What do you know - I got a valentine after all! All the way from Alaska.)

Anyway, so that made my day and I basically smiled for hours. Super, super thoughtful. And because I'm the doll-face that I am, I wrote him a real-life letter back. Yeah, I know. I'm pretty much a peach. 

Wednesday was lab out at the livestock  center, but all we did was cattle performance data evaluation, so it wasn't anything super exciting. 

Thursday was meh. 

Friday morning I went out to the livestock center in the morning and did some work - got my farmer on. Then I hitched a ride with the foreman and two others over to Blackfoot for the Friday stock auction!

That was actually a really good time. We got six head, cows and heifers, for the school and got to check out the bulls which was my favorite part. I've decided that whatever area of animal science that I end up going into, it must involve bulls. They get me so excited, you don't even know. Still waiting for the day I get to ride one. Soon, so soon. 

After that, we drove back home, unloaded the cows, and then I had a date that night, which was a good time. But I'm gonna call as a one and only, then leave it at that. 

Saturday I literally just did math homework, hung out around the apartment, then went grocery shopping with my ladies, 'cause we called it as a much needed girls' night. 

This was the product of the grocery shopping spree. Needless to say, we'll all be fat before long. But ya know what? Psh, ain't nobody caring about that 'round here. Also, I've decided that in a perfect world, I would just live off of fruit snacks. They're like crack, but better. 

Saturday night we watched Pitch Perfect and dreamed about beautiful men with perfect cheekbones. 

Today was church and such. Also I decided to be brave and practice my cooking, so I made dinner for my little fam fam here. 

It didn't turn out too bad and it was healthy-ish too! I'm pretty proud of myself. No big deal. But I did cut myself, which was just unfortunate. 

Mm, but in general this week was just a little confusing. Like you know how there'll be that one guy that you'll be like, "Hey, you're chill and attractive and I'd be into you." And he seems to be all like, "Hey, ditto." And then it goes back and forth for awhile and like, he texts you, and y'all hang out, and you're like, "Okay, he's actually pretty cute in general." And then he's like, "Oh wait, JK." And you're like, "Well, that's awkward." And then you just end up a little turned around and sitting on your couch eating ice-cream 'cause I mean really, what else can you do in this situation? 

It happens, folks. I guess that's why Ben and Jerry were born. 

But hey, whatever works, ya know! I mean, after all, cows are forever.

Goodnight, you good-looking people, you.

"Well It's Bulls And Blood, Dust And Mud."

I have been thinking about home a lot this week. A missionary friend sent me this picture on Monday and I've pretty much looked at it every day since. They just don't make mountains like that anywhere else.

This week was kind of long, with ups and downs, but overall it was decent to me.

Monday I got my mish emails... my favorite way to start the week. I basically spend all morning checking my computer for the little email thing to pop-up and when it does I usually re-read the emails over and over again. It's all good stuff. :)

Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday were all kind of eh. Generic, ya know. Classes and such. I did, however, get the highest score in the class on my animal production test which basically made me way happy. This girl knows her livestock.

Friday morning was the ultimate highlight of my week. I went out to the livestock center that morning bright and early to do work - it was warm and just a really chill morning.

The back of the feed truck, out in the pasture, is my favorite place in this whole world. Every time I'm out there, I just get another affirmation that this is where I'm supposed to be and this is what I'm meant to do. This is my kind of life. 

We got the horses and cattle fed with no big deal, then we had a small group of steers that we loaded, trailered, and weighed. That was a bit of an adventure and I almost died when one of the steers got cocky, but it's all good. Not exactly my first rodeo.

I had the fun spot at the back of the chute, pushing the rawhide through. But that also meant I had to watch out for the feisty few that liked to kick. But no big deal, I'm a boss.

This good-looking guy was my valentine, since Friday was Valentine's day as well. We're kind of tight - it's not a big thang or anything. But you should probably be a little jealous.

There's an auction in Blackfoot next Friday that I'll probably ride along to. The school's getting a few new head and maybe a new breeding bull. That'll be exciting - I'm really looking forward to all that good stuff.

Saturday I just hung out during the day - practiced my cooking, which still basically sucks - and then I had a date, which was fun. 

Today is Sunday so I taught in Relief Society and now I'm doing nothing for the rest of the day. And guess who doesn't have school tomorrow? That's right, everyone. So boom.

Well. That was my exciting week. I'll be home in a month and a half though - so I'm holding on to that when the college times turn not so fun! Life would be a lot easier if I could just live out with the cows, if ya ask me. ;)

But anyways, peace out, girl scouts. And don't forget to keep it real. 

"And When The Day Is Done My Momma's Still My Biggest Fan."

Hello and welcome to another one of my "what college has taught me" posts.

Instant potatoes are a life saver. 

Sometimes cooking doesn't always turn out how you'd like it to. Especially if you're someone named Ashleena Roberts. So on those days when your stir fry looks like mush and the meatloaf is being stubborn, those are the days you realize why instant mashed potatoes were invented. To save you from starvation.

Do what you love and love what you do.

My first semester, I thought I would love being an exercise physiology major. But bro, I was wrong. I enjoyed it, sure, but I didn't obsess over it. Animal science, on the other hand, is where the love is at. This week we hung out in the meat lab and did some hog carcass evaluations.

Yummmmmay.

I am literally in love with all of my ag classes. They are hands on and I usually come home smelling weird, but honestly, I'm the happiest when I'm in my coveralls. 

For my animal production class, we're required to do some time out at the livestock center doing chores, so I've been going each with with some friends from class. I get up while it's crazy dark out, throw on my boots and baseball cap, and we make it out to the center just before seven in the morning. Being out on the feed truck out in the pasture is officially the best place in this world. I was sitting out on it Friday morning, legs hanging off the back, while we headed out to find the cattle and the feeling of contentment was amazing. I love the ag life. And hey, the ag life loves me. 

The cows love them some cake. 

I probably could have made it as a personal trainer, but this is what I'm supposed to be doing! 

Don't take yo mama for granted. 

Seriously, until I spread my wings and left the nest, I never realized how much I depended on my ma. I constantly call her with the most random of questions, like, "How long do I boil eggs?" and "Can you freeze spinach?"We didn't exactly have the most conventional relationship while I lived at home. I mean, our gossip sessions happened while milking the cow and our version of bonding time was like, castrating lambs, but hey, that's us Roberts' for you. She taught me more than probably anyone else - even if I never did learn how to boil eggs properly - and I really do miss mi madre. 

Guys and girls can, in fact, be best friends.

Honestly, it's possible yo. My bff here is male, y'all. And guess what, we're not dating, despite what everyone seems to think. Yes, we hang out constantly and yeah, he and I text more than the guys that I'm actually interested in. But you know what, it's a proven fact that we aren't meant to be together and so he's my go-to-man with my guy problems (and vice versa). And I love the kid to death. Platonically, of course.

Mondays are good days, despite what society will tell you.

Personally, Mondays are like my favorite day ever. Probably because it's P-days for my favorite missionaries. Which basically means I get emails. Which basically is a good thing. Basically yeah. And one of said-favorite-missionaries happened to run into my mother the other day and had her send a picture my way. Which kinda made me smile. 

Ah, he's a funny kid. :)

Rexburg is not cold and will never be cold.

I have no idea how many times I've been told to wait, because it'll get cold here. I've been waiting. It's February and 30+ degrees. You folks have lied to me. Done.

Siblings may be a pain in the butt, but dang sometimes you'll miss them. 

Lately I've really been missing the little sibs. I get to go home in a couple months and I can't wait to hug all of them. I got to Skype with the family today and I can already tell that they're all gonna be different when I get back. Colton has grown like three feet and suddenly discovered the secret to fabulous hair, Russel looks like a little man, and Canyon and Kayleena, well okay, they seem pretty much the same so far. But I can't wait to see them. And then I'm sure we'll all go back to killing each other again. I was looking through some old pictures today and found this little gem. 

My word.

We are one attractive bunch of folks. I think Kayleena gets her looks from me. 

________________________

Alrighty, well that's about that. I'm going to bed - big ag test tomorrow. Gonna ace it, like a boss. 

G'night, my people. 

"If The Magic Ain't Right, Time To Walk."

*sigh*

Guys.

Today was a sad day.

Manning, I trusted you and you smashed my heart to pieces. Hands down, that was the hardest game I have ever had to watch. And as a result, I owe one guys' apartment cookies. That'll teach to never bet again.

But I have faith in my soul that next season... next season Denver will take it spectacularly. And that's all I'm going to say about that.

Alright, let's see what I did this week.Well, nothing life changing or extraordinarily spectacular. Homework kept me pretty busy during the weekdays. I've found myself loving Mondays because it's P-Days for my missionaries, so that means I get emails. I upped my squat this week, which was exciting. Workin' on those glutes, no big deal. I got invited to go out with the prettiest (in a good way) boy in our ward. Didn't go through, but it's the thought that counts.

Friday morning I got up uber early and went out to the livestock center with some friends to do chores. I'm pretty sure the Ag department is the only one that requires students to do like actual chores, but I'm not complaining. I forgot how much I missed actually working. We got to help run some of the cattle and get the bull loaded up, which was a bit of an adventure. I have this thing about being around bulls. I think my dream job would involve working with them on a daily basis. But anyways, coming home covered in hay and cow crap really made my morning. Can't wait to get back out there again!

Saturday kinda sucked a little, due to a migraine headache that decided to pay a visit. I spent most of the day asleep and then I wrote an essay all afternoon. It was relaxing, once the pain went away, but nothing super exciting.

Today was church and a really, really good fast and testimony meeting. The Spirit was incredibly strong today, through all of the meetings. In fact, I've felt the Lord's presence in my life very strong throughout this last week. I know that He loves and cares about us. We are literally His kiddos, each and every one of us. I think knowing that is the foundation of my entire testimony. I've been reading the scriptures more regularly now and when I do I've been trying to spend more time highlighting and finding passages that mean the most to me, as a daughter of a Heavenly Father. It has really changed my perspective on things and I've been able to see more of the blessings that He has sent my way. I'm a lucky girl.

Speaking of how lucky I am, I'd like to just take a moment to talk about the people here. Last semester I was blessed with some amazing roommates. Those girls are pretty much blood sisters to me at this point and I love them to death. When this semester started, I didn't have them and I was honestly terrified. I came into my new roommate situation with a bad attitude. I didn't want to like the new girls. I wouldn't like the new girls. Nope. Wasn't gonna happen.

The first few weeks weren't the best. Luckily for me, I had a couple friends outside of the room, made  the previous semester, so I wasn't completely alone. However, I was living with strangers that I was making no real effort to connect with and that's not an easy thing. This was the dumbest thing I've done recently though, because when I started putting an actual interest into these girls, I realized how hilariously amazing they each really are. I've got Netta for her sass, Amanda to vent over football about, and Allegra as my little shoulder angel. They are such a good support system and I love these girls. I really do.

I've also been blessed with the most caring and wonderful home teachers on this planet. This morning I was thinking about how I would like a priesthood blessing and half way through church Allegra texted me asking if I wanted one, because she had had a prompting to ask. So I hit up my home teachers and the amazing young men that they were, took time out of their evening to come by and bless me. I've been given so much - I can't even begin to give enough thanks.

This is our first picture together and I love it, just like I love the girls in it. How'd I get so lucky?

"I Want To Be Strong And Admit That I Was Wrong, Man."

Well, it's been a week, y'all.

Monday was a holiday, so classes didn't even start until Tuesday. Homework was light this week, which was nice, except for the fact that I put off what little I did have until this weekend, which left me in a panic to finish several papers up until about an hour ago. Not exactly the brightest thing I've ever done.

I decided to practice my culinary skills a whole freaking lot over the last week and let me just say, I am down right proud of myself. Look at what I have accomplished.

Those are dumplings. Roberts thing - reminded me of home. 

I actually made a salad. Vegetables make me sad, but I suffered through it. 

And my crowning glory... the most beautiful cheesecake on the face of this earth. It's already like 3/4 gone. I'm going to be fat.

I realize that this may not seem like a big deal to all y'all, but let me tell you what, I am no chef here. I called my mother this week because I couldn't remember how to boil eggs. Yeah. So this is kind monumentous.

And I haven't been alone in the kitchen. I've got this little guy to keep me company.

His name is the Brave Little Toaster. Or BLT for short.

Anyway. So that was my bragging for this post. I can officially cook some things sometimes.

Also, I want to share with you the most hilarious moment of my week. So I'm sure we've all heard the glorious news involving the good 'ole Justin Beibs. DUI, coke possession, egging, resisting arrest, you name it. WELL, my roommate and I were sitting around that morning and a brilliant idea came to us. See, we have this poster on our wall depicting the man himself. We decided he needed a little ink, so the convict got a tat.

#deported

I don't think I've laughed so hard in a very long time. I still find it way too amusing. Sometimes we're kind of geniuses, no big deal or anything. 

Let's see, what else has happened. Well, OH, gym news. I know you want to hear about that. So I was leaving the gym a couple nights ago, feeling all boss and such, when I feel someone touch me on the shoulder. Turn around and BAM, there's this adorable young man like right there and he's all like, "Hey, so don't want to be weird or anything, but do you want to go out with me?" So of course I said sure - we swapped numbers, etc, and that was the moment that made my day. Whether or not a date actually comes from this encounter, thank you, good sir, for making me smile. 

Mr. Hottie McHot as mentioned in previous blog posts continued to make appearances throughout the week. Unfortunately he's a Bear's fan though, which is a big of a point loss in my book. But those glorious shoulders might just make up for it - I haven't decided yet. 

So, I guess I'll get serious here for a moment 'cause it's a Sunday and a lot has been on my mind lately anyway. I woke up one morning this week and I realized that I wasn't really where I wanted to be or where I had ever planned to be. And by that I don't mean in Idaho ('cause I love it here). What I mean, is that it's been almost exactly seven months now since I've been regularly doing what I should be doing. Scripture study, talking to my Heavenly Father - I've been slacking. This past summer I got into a relationship that I should have avoided. Because of it, I prioritized things all wrong and grew further from my Heavenly Father than I ever have been. I did some things I shouldn't have, justified them and acted like they had no effect on me. Too bad that's not how it works. 

I picked up my scriptures for the first time in a long time a few days ago. I started reading in Alma and came across a verse that really hit me hard, so I thought I'd share. 

"If thou believest in the redemption of Christ thou canst be healed." 

How incredible is that promise? To know that we can be forgiven and fixed, even if we've messed up so bad that it hurts all the time. It doesn't come without work. We still have to believe and in order to believe, we have to act upon what we know. But it can be done and that's what matters to me. 

Guilt is a scary thing, but someone shared a scripture with me that's helping my process. 

"Listen to him who is the advocate with the Father, who is pleading your cause before him. Saying: Father, behold the sufferings and death of him who did no sin, in whom thou wast well pleased; behold the blood of thy Son which was shed, the blood of him whom thou gavest that thyself might be glorified; Wherefore, Father, spare these my brethren that believe on my name, that they may come unto me and have everlasting life."

I know that if I do my duty, when the time comes, Christ will be the one pleading for me at the judgment seat. So I'm taking care of what I need to now, even though its the hardest thing I've ever done, because I'm ready to be completely and totally happy again. I think it'll take awhile, but I've been blessed with some incredible people in my life. It's hard being away from home and the people there, but I have a support system here that almost seemed to have appeared from out of nowhere. That was the Lord's hand in my life, I guarantee it. And I love him for it. I'm ready for the change. 

More than anything.