"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?

"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 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.

"Too Young To Know Any Better."

I know it's been like ages since I've posted. It's not really my fault though; life has been a little cray-cray to say the least.

I'm gonna try and remember everything that happened, but considering there has been so freaking much, I'm probs gonna miss  whole lot. Oh wells.

Okay, so I said goodbye to my wonderful, beautiful, favoritest roommates. There were tears, more pictures, and lots of hugging. That was not exactly a good time. I woke up to an empty apartment, which wasn't exactly a great feeling, finished packing, caught the four hour shuttle to Salt Lake, and finally made it to the airport. Due to weather issues, my plane got delayed several times and I ended up spending five hours at the SLC airport. I wanted to shoot myself. Finally, they got us boarding and the flight was about three hours to Chicago. Can I just say, flying sucks. It gives me a massive headache and planes smell weird.

Anyway, Stacy and Josh were waiting for me when I got there and of course Stacy starts crying 'cause I'm so amazing and plus there's pregnancy hormones helping out there too. So that was good. We got home at 2:00am and pretty much just crashed.

So the next day was church - Stacy had me talk to the young women there for a few minutes, share my collegiate wisdom, etc.

Monday was our first venture into the city! We took a train in (which I have never done before so that was exciting.) We ran down Michigan avenue and made it just in time for our reservations at the signature room. Which, by the way, is on the 95th floor of the John Hancock building. Talk about a view.

It was incredible. Luckily for us, the weather was clear so you could see basically everything. Absolutely gorgeous. 

After lunch we decided to head over to Navy Pier 'cause I really wanted to see that. It was absolutely freezing outside - below 0 and the wind off the lake was absolutely rude. But we walked all the way down the pier because we are strong Alaskan women and a little cold never hurt anyone. Ish. I got some pretty decent shots down there with the 'ole camera. Poor Mr. C; he wasn't liking the cold either. His battery was draining like crazy. 

This was my favorite from our Navy Pier adventures. It was all really pretty and we got to see the skyline so that was cool too. Also there were lots of pigeons... which I thought was fun. Anyways.

Next we went to Millennium park and saw the bean. And then we went iceskating there. The line was crazy long and we probably waited like an hour before we could get on the ice, but it was completely worth it.

This is us in the bean. Fabulous I tell ya, fabulous.

So then we did a little Nordstrom shopping and headed back to the train station. It was so cold, my face was numb, but it was getting dark and the city was absolutely beautiful at night. 

I'm not a huge city person, never really have been. I like my cows. But I'm not gonna lie, the big city has a certain charm. 

So the next day was Christmas eve and we didn't do much. We made pies and cooked Christmas dinner. Actually, Stacy mostly cooked. I just messed around in the kitchen and was in the way a lot. But it was fun!

I sure love this purty sister. And her fancy shmancy scrub brush. 

So the next day was Christmas and we did stockings and presents and all that good stuff. The missionaries came over for dinner which was fun and then we went and saw Frozen. Talk about adorable. Made me miss my reindeer boys. 

Thursday Stace and I got sick. For like, a really long time. We laid in bed pretty much all day every day, occasionally turning over to make sure the other one was still breathing. And we probably drank like five gallons of orange juice. 

Well, New Years eve we decided to buck up and be men and go out and party. So we got dressed and went out and it was a lot of fun, even though we were coughing our lungs up and only made it until just after midnight. But the effort, that's what counts. 

New Years day we went back into the city to the Shedd aquarium and this time we took Joshy with us. That place was huge. It took us like five hours to get through the dang thing. But it was exciting 'cause I got to see fishes and dolphins and whales and seahorses. So basically it was successful. 

That's the entrance. Not a lot of exciting stuff there, but now you've seen it.

This guys was pretty much my favorite. Apparently he's like a sea dragon or something or other. He was pretty awesome. Unfortunately I couldn't use my flash at all in the aquarium, so yeah, the picture quality on my shots pretty much sucked. Oh well.

We also went to the whale/dolphin show, which was pretty fun. Whales are so cute. I need one.

So after the aquarium we spent like a half hour trying to catch a cab, which was impossible and it was freezing and awful. But finally we got one and we went and had dinner at this little old timey pizza joint. It was super cute and the food was amazing. 

I probably ate more meat that night than I have all semester. It was crazy, but way good. 

So then we went home and yeah. 

I was only there for another couple days. We watched movies together our last night and hung out on the couch having way too many TMI moments. The next morning we finished packing and then they brought me back to the Chicago airport. It was sad leaving; I wish we all lived closer. It was nice being able to be with family again and plus I hadn't seen Stace since May so it was good to see her. So anyway, that was sad.

The flight home was long and delayed and the drive back to Rexburg was even longer. I got home at 3:00am -  I was so exhausted. Also, once I got back I realized I left my leather jacket on the plane. Freaking sucks. 

I met my new roommates the next day and honestly, all that made me do was miss my girls from last semester. But I'm dealing with it. 

Classes started on Monday! Honestly, I'm loving my classes this semester. All of them. I think my least favorite is my Book of Mormon class. I know that sounds bad, but I'm just being honest here. And it's not that I don't like it, it's just that it's not my favorite, ya know? 

My livestock classes are so interesting - I really like them already. On Tuesday we're heading out to the livestock center to do some live hog judging which I'm really looking forward to. 

Also, mi madre sent me a new pair of coveralls for Christmas. I freaking love these things! I can't wait to get out there and break 'em in. Actually I just can't wait to wear them around campus. But I'm waiting for the right opportunity. 

I'm liking my English class okay so far. It's pretty easy - we're most just reading like articles from people and finding the thesis statements. Not hard at all. And my math class is like... ridiculously easy. I was all worried 'cause ya know, it's like college math and all that jazz. Nuh-uh. I already have 116% in the class. It should be no problemo. 

Also, I sit at the same table as this pretty attractive guy during class period, so ya know... it could be worse, that's all I'm saying. 

Earlier this week I got a surprise email from a mish friend, who I met when he served in my ward back home. It was nice to hear from him, plus now I get two Elders to write, so score. 

Ummmm, I think that's basically it. All summed up, it's good to be home in the 'ole burg. While I was in Illinois, I was getting a little homesick and not for Alaska, like I thought I would be. I kinda like this place. A whole lot. Plus it's been nice 'cause I've been able to get back to my gym schedule, which completely went down the drain over Christmas break. 

Okay, well that's all for now. I'll get back on my regular posting schedule from now on I suppose. Later y'all! Have a fabulous week. \m/

"No More Counting Dollars, We'll Be Counting Stars."

Alright y'all- blog time!

So there was this thing this week called Thanksgiving break. And it was a wonderful thing. No classes and I didn't have to set my alarm. Not even once. It was heavenly. 

Monday and Tuesday were technically not included in break 'cause I still had classes, so they were nothing special.

Wednesday it began and honestly, I think we were a little unsure about what to do with all of the freedom. So we didn't really do anything that day. Well, except we went to the gym, of course. Kenzie has started coming with me. We don't work out together really (except for when we do squats because safety first), but we go together and that's all that matters. Then Wednesday night I made my first pie ever. It's a new skill of mine, apparently. No big deal or anything.

Also on Wednesday I was forced to go buy a new computer, due to the fact that mine decided to give up on me. Rude. 

Thursday was Thanksgiving of course! Can I just say - I was so proud of us for making our own little dinner. It all turned out so well... I'm pretty sure we are going to make excellent wives. Boys, take a note of this. 

(Our Thanksgiving dinner! That would be my pecan pie in the back... yup. It was wonderful.)

So Friday we did homework in the morning and then went to see Catching Fire that afternoon. Gosh dang was it good. A million times better than the first one. Not like that's saying much, but still. Finnick was picture perfect, which was a good thing considering he was my favorite character in the book and had he been less than perfect I would have been not happy. So yeah.

Got some grocery shopping done this weekend, wrote up an actual budget because I realized it was probably about time, and somehow got pulled into that TV show Game of Thrones. I'm only on episode four and I've got three full seasons to watch. This is no small task. I've also gotten started on this "My Fitness Pal" thing... it's like dieting, but fun. Trust me. 

Alright, well that's about all that I've got for you. The lost roommates (Brooke and Scar) should be home in a couple hours and thank goodness for that because the place just isn't the same without them. Okay, well, I'm going to go eat a protein bar and watch my show... Bu-bye!

(It ain't gonna watch itself!)

"I Loved To Choose And See My Path, But Now Lead Thou Me On."

Wanna see what we did this weekend? Yeah you do.

(His name is Francis. He's very handsome. He's living on our fridge now.)

And you thought we'd mature in college. Psh. What rock are you living under. What with the hand turkey and Christmas lights up, our dorm kind looks amazing. No big thing.

So, let's see. This week I got registered for classes - go me! I'm signed up to take a Book of Mormon class, Live and Carcass Evaluation (farm stuff yo), possibly Animal Handling and Behavior (I'm still on the wait list for that one), and Overall Exercise Physiology (I couldn't help it. I still can't decide where my loyalties lie.) Tomorrow I'll get my math and English classes added then boom, I'll be ready for next semester..

Already got tuition paid for out of my market check (sheep are good for something after all) - by some twist of fate I got my room switched so I don't have to move all of my crap over Christmas break - things are just really falling into place.

Nothing extremely exciting happened this week. Classes were super chill, probs because Thanksgiving break is coming up and even the professors are looking forward to that. I didn't get to fulfill my dream of AIing a cow this week due to the fact that the dang cows decided to mess with their heat cycles, but I'm holding out on said dream. It will happen soon enough.

I started squatting this week. Yesterday, to be precise. And let's just say I'm a little sore back there. Walking to church was an adventure, to be sure. Speaking of church, it was my turn to teach Gospel Doctrine today and bro, turns out I'm kinda loving my calling. Who woulda thought teaching could be so much fun? Plus, it's an opportunity to show off my amazingly artistic stick figure drawing skills on the white board. Perks, I tell you, perks.

Thanksgiving break starts on Tuesday - my last class ends at like two and then I'm free to lounge about and mess around in the gym for a whole five and a half days. BOOYA. Also, I get to try out my possibly awesome pie-making talents. We'll just see how that one goes.

Not much else to say about this week, but since it's Sunday I'll add just a little spiritual thought. So, for a couple months now I'd been praying for something that I really, really wanted. Like bro, it was all I could think about. And I thought it was a good thing, I really did. I got my answer this week (finally) and I'm just gonna be honest, it was exactly the opposite of what I'd asked for. I was a little shocked and unhappy, to say the very least. But after thinking it through (alot), I realized that what I had originally wanted would not have been the best thing for me. The Lord knew that and honestly I think he was waiting for me to figure it out myself and when I didn't he was like, "Okay, seriously hun, here's the thing..." I am so incredibly grateful I have Him to look out for me. He knows me better than I do and he loves me so much he's willing to tell me "No" on something I want in the moment, in order to cause me to wait for something much, much better. I'm pretty gosh darn lucky.

A'ight. That's a wrap. Love you all - Happy Thanksgiving!

(Saw this on Pinterest of course and it struck home. Just change "Life" to "God" and boom, you got it.)

"Eighteen Years In Her Rearview."

Mm, well, I'm not gonna lie, this week was a tough one.

There's this thing called "more midterms than I like to handle"... not so chill. I also managed to go and lose an entire notebook of lecture notes. Smooth, Ash, smooth.

*sigh* Also, I didn't get to the temple like I was originally planning on doing, which really didn't help my already crappy mood. I'd like to formally apologize to my roommates and thank them for putting up with my pissy self over the last few days. They are pretty much the best a person could ask for. Really though.

It wasn't all bad though. I got a huge essay out of the way this week - amen, halleluiah, thank the heavens above. I took an econ test on Friday and I'm pretty sure I aced it. I started benching this week and even though I'm only at 40lbs for three sets, I'm feeling pretty good about it.

 (And I'm loving my new lifting gloves. So yeah.)

So on Saturday I sat down to write my essay, wasn't feeling it, grabbed my Nikes and ran away for awhile. I decided to head up behind the temple, took a left and literally walked out into the middle of nowhere.

 After about an hour, I came over this hill and I saw snow-capped mountains off in the distance. It reminded me of Alaska so much.

All of the fields and pipe made me feel like I was back at the farm. Never thought I'd miss all those hours out in the dirt weeding, but guess what, I do. Honestly, sometimes I wish I could just relive last summer. It was really some of the best times I've had. 

I also listened to Imagine Dragons on repeat for pretty much the entire four hours I was gone. I'd forgotten just how much I love them.

I found a random hill out in the boonies and claimed it as my new hiding spot. Reminds me of the Butte a little - it'll have to do while I'm here.

I can't wait to get back to Alaska. The very first thing I'm going to do when I get home (after I say hi to the family of course) is drive up to Hatchers. I need some real mountain time. Idaho's just not doing it for me, honestly. 

I do love it here, I really do. The school is great and I love my college bros. But I'm missin' home.

"Life Is Short So Go On And Live It 'Cause The Chicks Dig It."

It's a little hard to believe that I've only been here for a month... it feels like I've been in Idaho for basically ever. But anyway, it's time for my little college-life-weekly-update-thing! I know, it's exciting.

First off, you may have noticed I've recently vamped up mah blog. The reason being, "Up In The Mountains" doesn't really apply to my life anymore considering the fact that there are literally no mountains in Rexburg. So, I decided to go with a title that was more applicable - do you even lift, bro? Because the weight room is like my second home. So yeah, there you have it.

Anyway, moving on.

Lots has happened this week, but nothing extraordinary or life-changing if I remember correctly. I went on a shooting date, which was fun. Haven't handled a hand gun in awhile, so that was a'ight.

I had a couple tests this week, so Monday through Wednesday was a little stressful. I'm not gonna lie, I was less than impressed with my science and history scores, but allow me bragging rights when it comes to my livestock reproduction test. So, basically, the exam consisted of 100 questions and of those, I got 99 right. BOO-FREAKING-YA. Pretty much made my week right there.

Also, while we're on the livestock topic, I'm really torn between changing my major to Animal Science/Beef Production or keeping it at Exercise Phys. I love both areas equally and I honestly cannot figure out what I want to do. I'm leaning towards Beef Production, but at the same time I don't want to let go of my Exercise Phys ties and my favorite part of every day is my time in the gym. Just when I think I've decided on one over the other, I start doubting it and right now I'm thinking it might be easier to just screw college and be a hobo. It's an option.

Okay, so the rest of the week, was purty average. Then Friday night came along (woot woot) which meant... rodeo time! Scarlett, Makenzie, and I went with this guy from one of Scarlett's classes - it was actually pretty fun. Now, the rodeo itself was a little pathetic. The barrel racers didn't know what they were doing (yeah, sorry sweethearts) and the steers probably didn't top 400lbs. Plus, it was just painful to watch some of the girls doing the steer riding. Rub some dirt in it, princess, and suck it up. I was probably being a little judgmental, but really.

(Never been to an indoor rodeo, so that was different. Tried to get some steer riding shots, but my phone is ghetto, so that was a no-go.)

So that was Friday night. Then Saturday I went on a hike up R Mountain with a friend. Let me clarify... this "mountain" is smaller than the Butte. Mountains here just can't compare to Alaska. But it was SO nice to get outside and when we got up top, I felt like I was standing on my Butte. Honestly, I felt more homesick in that moment then I have the entire time I've been here. I had to check myself - I thought I was going to cry and that would have been just awkward. But all in all, it was a good time.

(The view from the top of R Mountain. Doesn't it look just like the Butte? Literally, if you put Pioneer Peak there in the distance, I would hardly be able to tell the difference.)

 (Okay, and then there's this picture. Let's just embrace the awkwardness of this for a minute. Like the fact of my face... there was wind, okay. And my elbow's weird too. Awkwardness embraced.) 

 So, after the hike, I came home, watched like twelve movies and ate a bunch of crap food because yolo.

Today is Sunday, just got back from church. I got set apart today as one of the gospel doctrine teachers (I know, right) and as far as I know I start next week. Yikes bro. Also, I just have to note, I decided to be brave and make dinner for my roomies tonight. It is in the oven as we speak. Fingers crossed the kitchen is intact by the time I am done. I guess we'll see.

Okay. 

That's been my week. Imma go watch the Broncos kick the Jaguars' butts now. Adios.

Protein Power - Word.

As an exercise phys major, I've had to take a good look at my highschool fitness routine and I realized pretty quick that there were some important aspects I had been neglecting. The big one for me: eating after every work out. Basically, I wasn't doing it.

Now, I know how it is. You get home from the gym - you're sweaty, sore, and feeling pretty kick-butt (because let's be honest, you are). With all of those endorphins running through your body, you're probably feeling pretty confident and the last thing you want to do is eat back those calories that you just burned.

Truth is, if you're working out every day, it's absolutely essential to concentrate on that post-workout recovery time. These first 15-30 minutes after a workout are the most crucial, so get something in your stomach. Preferably, something rich in protein.

In lay-man's terms, protein helps provide amino acids which are important for rebuilding muscle tissue. This means if you lift (do you even lift, bro?), then this is exceptionally important. Trust me, you just spent two hours in physical pain in the name of staying healthy, fit, and sexy - you want to get everything out of your workout that you possibly can.

So anyway, enough of that. Basically, you need to eat something pretty much ASAP after stepping off that treadmill. Not a meal, but something small with lotsa protein. Thus, I introduce to you my post-workout savior.

Prep-time: 5-10 minutes (What do ya know, perfect for hitting that 15 minute recovery time.)
The Good Stuff:
- 1/3ish cup Greek yogurt (I use about half a 6oz container of Chobani Greek yogurt. Pineapple's the bomb.com, just saying.)
- 1 serving protein powder (My brand is MLO Super High Protein Powder because it's not flavored and doesn't have any added sweetener. Each brand/type will have a different recommended serving size - I usually aim for around 25grams for this shake.)
- 1/4 cup frozen banana
- 1/4 cup frozen berries (I generally go with raspberries, but blueberries are an awesome source of antioxidants. Feel free to mix it up.)
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter (We're loading up on the protein, remember? Plus, peanut butter makes everything better.)
- 1/2ish cup of milk (I use 2%, in case you were wondering. And the measurement here can vary on how thick or thin you like your shake. Experiment... go for it. YOLO.)
Now What: Throw all that crap in a blender, blend it real good, then down it immediately. If you're looking for an extra health boost, toss in some fresh spinach or kale. Puts hair on your chest.