I remember being little and sleepily semi-watching General Conference... or at least being in the same room where conference was on. Now I look forward to Conference twice a year and enjoy watching all the sessions! General Conference is so incredible! Its amazing to have the opportunity to listen to a living Prophet and Apostles and leaders of the Church!
My Dad and Jill flew up to Utah for conference weekend so Scott and I got to pick them up Saturday morning, get some lunch together, and then attend the Saturday Afternoon Session at the Conference Center together. We then got a snack, the guys went back for Priesthood Session, and then we enjoyed dinner together.
Sunday morning Scott and I watched the Morning Session together and then drove back up to Salt Lake to meet up with my parents for the Sunday Afternoon Session at the Conference Center. It was amazing to be in the conference center for 2 sessions and hear the words of the General Authorities.
I also loved being able to spend time with family and enjoy the weekend :) Good times for sure!
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Busy Semester
It is already October and I am over a month into my last semester of classes at BYU. WOW. The time has just flown by! I really like my schedule and the professors that I have so that helps the time go by quickly.
In a month though, my classes will stop and I will have my second Practicum. This is where I will work with a mentor teacher and spend my days in an elementary classroom gaining experience and teaching lessons. Just last week I found out that I will be placed in a 3rd grade classroom at Orchard Hills Elementary in Santaquin, UT. I am very excited! I have always said that I want to teach either 2nd or 3rd grade so I am excited that my 2 practicums will have been in both a 2nd grade and a 3rd grade classroom. Its gonna be a busy/crazy/amazing experience!
But for now I am trying to keep up with my class assignments, I'm working a fair amount with Catering, and we are getting plans all set for the wedding on December 17th [74 days away!!]
Speaking of which - Scott and I took our engagement pictures a few weeks ago. We had the chance to meet up with a local photographer whose blog I have followed for over a year. It went so great and I am super happy with the preview we have so far. Go to Sheena's Blog to see a glimpse :)
In a month though, my classes will stop and I will have my second Practicum. This is where I will work with a mentor teacher and spend my days in an elementary classroom gaining experience and teaching lessons. Just last week I found out that I will be placed in a 3rd grade classroom at Orchard Hills Elementary in Santaquin, UT. I am very excited! I have always said that I want to teach either 2nd or 3rd grade so I am excited that my 2 practicums will have been in both a 2nd grade and a 3rd grade classroom. Its gonna be a busy/crazy/amazing experience!
But for now I am trying to keep up with my class assignments, I'm working a fair amount with Catering, and we are getting plans all set for the wedding on December 17th [74 days away!!]
Speaking of which - Scott and I took our engagement pictures a few weeks ago. We had the chance to meet up with a local photographer whose blog I have followed for over a year. It went so great and I am super happy with the preview we have so far. Go to Sheena's Blog to see a glimpse :)
Sunday, September 11, 2011
10 years ago
My mom and I had planned to go for a walk around a park before my school started at 9:30, but in the morning she called me on her way over and told me that she was pretty upset and we wouldn't be going for our walk that day. She was upset because someone had flown some planes into some towers in New York.
I had no idea what that meant. I was only 11 years old. I had never heard of the Twin Towers before, or of a Terrorist Attack. We watched the news in the living room of my dad's house for a while and then I had to go to school, but at school we had the news on the tv in the classroom also. I still didn't really know what everything meant or what was going on, but I remember my 6th grade teacher having us write down a journal entry about that day. She said that someday we would want to remember our experiences that day, so maybe that is why I remember it the way I do even though I was only 11.
I remember that everyone was really scared for a while, waiting for another attack. And everyone bought US flags to hang up, especially the ones that you place on your car windows. Those were everywhere.
I don't remember when I really understood what happened on September 11, 2001. Maybe I still don't fully understand it. But now I am proud of those who willingly went into those burning towers to help those in need. I am grateful for those who serve this country to keep us safe. I am now 21 years old and I will always remember September 11th.
I had no idea what that meant. I was only 11 years old. I had never heard of the Twin Towers before, or of a Terrorist Attack. We watched the news in the living room of my dad's house for a while and then I had to go to school, but at school we had the news on the tv in the classroom also. I still didn't really know what everything meant or what was going on, but I remember my 6th grade teacher having us write down a journal entry about that day. She said that someday we would want to remember our experiences that day, so maybe that is why I remember it the way I do even though I was only 11.
I remember that everyone was really scared for a while, waiting for another attack. And everyone bought US flags to hang up, especially the ones that you place on your car windows. Those were everywhere.
I don't remember when I really understood what happened on September 11, 2001. Maybe I still don't fully understand it. But now I am proud of those who willingly went into those burning towers to help those in need. I am grateful for those who serve this country to keep us safe. I am now 21 years old and I will always remember September 11th.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Life is just awesome - - but busy
I can hardly believe that this summer is over. I looked forward to Summer 2011 for so long that it is strange it is pretty much complete! I had the absolute best summer and I am so extremely happy with life :)
It was a different experience to stay in Utah all summer rather than packing up and going back home like usual. It was nice to spend time with Scott, work, and see another side to Provo than I was used to, but I'm glad that I was able to make trips and attend family vacations though, cause I sure love my family!
Once Summer term ended for Scott we both flew out to Virginia to spend some time with the Whitlocks in Ashburn. That was an awesome trip! I had the best time with the Whitlocks and I am so grateful that they invited me out there :D I stayed for 10 days and then had to come back for work while Scott got to stay a full 2 weeks. We made the most of our time and had a really good balance of fun active adventures as well as relaxing times.
Here's a glimpse of our trip:
-attending Ashley and Mark's wedding reception in New Jersey
-water skiing at Lake Anna
-hiking the Billy Goat Trail along the Potomac river
-picking our own Raspberries
-celebrating Mike and Shannon's 23rd wedding anniversary
-watching the entire 6th season of Lost [thank you Netflix!]
-Kayaking near some memorials in DC on the Potomac
-hearing Scott speak in church
Plus lots of sleeping in, hanging out, great dinners [with cooking lessons for Scott :)], etc. I was so sad to be leaving Virginia- I was very tempted to just stay with the Whitlocks rather than return to work and school... :)
I came back late on the 21st and then had a crazy busy week with my cleaning check to be completed all by myself on the 22nd and then I worked about 34 hours Monday-Friday. I was very tired by the end of the week and REALLY looking forward to picking up Scott at the airport on Friday night :D We had a great weekend together and then on the 29th my last semester of classes on BYU campus started. It was a whirlwind of a couple weeks! Like I said- life is busy, but it is just awesome :)
It was a different experience to stay in Utah all summer rather than packing up and going back home like usual. It was nice to spend time with Scott, work, and see another side to Provo than I was used to, but I'm glad that I was able to make trips and attend family vacations though, cause I sure love my family!
Once Summer term ended for Scott we both flew out to Virginia to spend some time with the Whitlocks in Ashburn. That was an awesome trip! I had the best time with the Whitlocks and I am so grateful that they invited me out there :D I stayed for 10 days and then had to come back for work while Scott got to stay a full 2 weeks. We made the most of our time and had a really good balance of fun active adventures as well as relaxing times.
Here's a glimpse of our trip:
-attending Ashley and Mark's wedding reception in New Jersey
-water skiing at Lake Anna
-hiking the Billy Goat Trail along the Potomac river
-picking our own Raspberries
-celebrating Mike and Shannon's 23rd wedding anniversary
-watching the entire 6th season of Lost [thank you Netflix!]
-Kayaking near some memorials in DC on the Potomac
-hearing Scott speak in church
Plus lots of sleeping in, hanging out, great dinners [with cooking lessons for Scott :)], etc. I was so sad to be leaving Virginia- I was very tempted to just stay with the Whitlocks rather than return to work and school... :)
I came back late on the 21st and then had a crazy busy week with my cleaning check to be completed all by myself on the 22nd and then I worked about 34 hours Monday-Friday. I was very tired by the end of the week and REALLY looking forward to picking up Scott at the airport on Friday night :D We had a great weekend together and then on the 29th my last semester of classes on BYU campus started. It was a whirlwind of a couple weeks! Like I said- life is busy, but it is just awesome :)
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Owl City, Snowy Hikes, and Sunrises
I don't know how I forgot to mention that Scott and I went to an Owl City concert the week before Lake Powell! I found out that they were coming to Utah several months ago and as soon as I knew that I would be in town the day of the concert I bought tickets for Scott and I to go!
The concert was so great! It was a hot day and we were surrounded by many people, but we had a great time! Mat Kearney even opened for Owl City! He was a great singer and performer! Then Owl City was great! This was my third time seeing Owl City in concert, but my first time with Scott! :D Then afterwards we got slurpees together - a concert tradition that Scott shared with me :) It was an amazing night!
So, I would consider myself a pretty adventurous girl. I am pretty much open for anything - but at the same time I can tend to be a bit lazy... Scott has helped me to get out in the world and enjoy beautiful nature with healthy physical activity, haha. I previously blogged about hiking Stewart Falls but since then we have been on several more hikes.
On July 25th Scott didn't have any classes for Pioneer Day Weekend so we took advantage of the day off to take a hike up at Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort. I had never been up there before - it was so beautiful up the canyon! The hike was a bit intense at parts, and I felt like my legs were still a bit tired from my previous week at Lake Powell. So we took many breaks and enjoyed the scenery. And Scott was the camera man for the day again.
There were several parts of the trail that were still covered in several feet of snow. In JULY! Craziness... But we made it all the way to the top of the mountain at Hidden Peak. It was difficult, but very rewarding! We got to the top right before a tram tour did and so we rested and then were able to catch a ride back down on the tram which we were VERY grateful for! Going UP the mountain is what really counts, right? :)
Then that Friday my roommate Ashley and her Fiance Mark were flying to New Jersey to spend time with his family before their wedding on August 13th. So Scott went with me to drive them to the airport at 4:30 am to catch their flight. On our way back we decided to make the most of our time up in Salt Lake so early and take a hike to see the sun rise. We went back up the canyon and drove past Snowbird and Alta resorts and took a gorgeous little hike to Cecret/Secret Lake.
The hike had a little snow like Snowbird did, as well as some rocky portions, but we made it easily and got to the lake just a little before the sun rose over the mountains. It was beautiful! We took lots of pictures and enjoyed the gorgeous mountain morning before hiking back to the car and getting Scott back to Provo for class. And then we each took 3 hour naps while the other was at work. Sleep is great - but only when there's nothing else better to do :)
The concert was so great! It was a hot day and we were surrounded by many people, but we had a great time! Mat Kearney even opened for Owl City! He was a great singer and performer! Then Owl City was great! This was my third time seeing Owl City in concert, but my first time with Scott! :D Then afterwards we got slurpees together - a concert tradition that Scott shared with me :) It was an amazing night!
So, I would consider myself a pretty adventurous girl. I am pretty much open for anything - but at the same time I can tend to be a bit lazy... Scott has helped me to get out in the world and enjoy beautiful nature with healthy physical activity, haha. I previously blogged about hiking Stewart Falls but since then we have been on several more hikes.
On July 25th Scott didn't have any classes for Pioneer Day Weekend so we took advantage of the day off to take a hike up at Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort. I had never been up there before - it was so beautiful up the canyon! The hike was a bit intense at parts, and I felt like my legs were still a bit tired from my previous week at Lake Powell. So we took many breaks and enjoyed the scenery. And Scott was the camera man for the day again.
There were several parts of the trail that were still covered in several feet of snow. In JULY! Craziness... But we made it all the way to the top of the mountain at Hidden Peak. It was difficult, but very rewarding! We got to the top right before a tram tour did and so we rested and then were able to catch a ride back down on the tram which we were VERY grateful for! Going UP the mountain is what really counts, right? :)
Then that Friday my roommate Ashley and her Fiance Mark were flying to New Jersey to spend time with his family before their wedding on August 13th. So Scott went with me to drive them to the airport at 4:30 am to catch their flight. On our way back we decided to make the most of our time up in Salt Lake so early and take a hike to see the sun rise. We went back up the canyon and drove past Snowbird and Alta resorts and took a gorgeous little hike to Cecret/Secret Lake.
The hike had a little snow like Snowbird did, as well as some rocky portions, but we made it easily and got to the lake just a little before the sun rose over the mountains. It was beautiful! We took lots of pictures and enjoyed the gorgeous mountain morning before hiking back to the car and getting Scott back to Provo for class. And then we each took 3 hour naps while the other was at work. Sleep is great - but only when there's nothing else better to do :)
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
July 23rd / Our Engagement Story
I left Lake Powell on Saturday morning and was so excited to get back to Provo! I made super good time driving and got back in just over 5 hours :) I had been talking to Scott about whether I should go straight to his apartment or to mine first and then compromised by making a quick trip home to freshen up a bit and then he would come over. I was so excited to see him that I didn't want to waste any time apart!
He came and picked me up not much later and we got In-N-Out together. I asked him what he wanted to do that night and Scott said he was sorry that he didn't make any fun plans but suggested watching a movie. I didn't care what we did, I was just happy to be back with him! So we went back to my apartment and watched the classic - Napoleon Dynamite! It was hilarious, as always.
When it was dark Scott asked me if I wanted to go over to his apartment to pick up the bag his grandma made for me and the friendship bracelet that he had made for me. I excitedly agreed and so we drove off towards his apartment... but then he did not turn into his complex. I was confused and asked him if we were going to his apartment and he told me that we were going to make a detour first. I had a few suspicions at this point, but I wasn't sure...
So we drove over to Kiwanis Park and saw tons of people lighting little fireworks and playing frisbee. Scott told me that he found something that he wanted to show me so we parked the car and made our way to the middle of the field. As we stood there though, a group of people came right next to us to set up some large aerial fireworks and so we wandered off to find another spot by ourselves.
Scott was holding a bag that I couldn't tell what was inside and he pulled out his phone. He started playing a song from his phone which I immediately recognized as I See the Light from my favorite movie Tangled! He had re-recorded it himself and changed the words- it is the most amazing thing ever! As the song was playing he pulled something out of the bag and after opening it up I realized it was a floating lantern!! I got SUPER excited! I had told Scott before how I really wanted to see a real floating lantern and he had found one for me!
We both had to work hard to get it floating, but we eventually figured it out! [Cause what's gonna work? TEAMWORK!] <-- haha I even said that out loud that night :) Once it was floating in the air Scott told me to make a wish and to close my eyes. When he told me that I could open my eyes he was kneeling down in front of me and he asked me to marry him! I said YES and then gave him a huge hug and a few kisses. He then pulled out the ring and placed it on my finger and it felt so surreal! I had just driven back from Lake Powell a few hours earlier and now I was engaged!!!
We then sent off another floating lantern that Scott had and as we watched the second one float away people all around us started setting off their huge fireworks. It was absolute perfect timing! I didn't know whether to look at the lantern, Scott, the fireworks, or my ring! It was all so incredible! :D The rest of the night was spend in a daze of pure happiness as Scott and I walked around the park and then began to share the wonderful news with friends and family.
So now I am the luckiest and happiest girl in the world - and that happiness will somehow increase when I marry Scott Whitlock on December 17th in the Los Angeles Temple!!!
He came and picked me up not much later and we got In-N-Out together. I asked him what he wanted to do that night and Scott said he was sorry that he didn't make any fun plans but suggested watching a movie. I didn't care what we did, I was just happy to be back with him! So we went back to my apartment and watched the classic - Napoleon Dynamite! It was hilarious, as always.
When it was dark Scott asked me if I wanted to go over to his apartment to pick up the bag his grandma made for me and the friendship bracelet that he had made for me. I excitedly agreed and so we drove off towards his apartment... but then he did not turn into his complex. I was confused and asked him if we were going to his apartment and he told me that we were going to make a detour first. I had a few suspicions at this point, but I wasn't sure...
So we drove over to Kiwanis Park and saw tons of people lighting little fireworks and playing frisbee. Scott told me that he found something that he wanted to show me so we parked the car and made our way to the middle of the field. As we stood there though, a group of people came right next to us to set up some large aerial fireworks and so we wandered off to find another spot by ourselves.
Scott was holding a bag that I couldn't tell what was inside and he pulled out his phone. He started playing a song from his phone which I immediately recognized as I See the Light from my favorite movie Tangled! He had re-recorded it himself and changed the words- it is the most amazing thing ever! As the song was playing he pulled something out of the bag and after opening it up I realized it was a floating lantern!! I got SUPER excited! I had told Scott before how I really wanted to see a real floating lantern and he had found one for me!
We both had to work hard to get it floating, but we eventually figured it out! [Cause what's gonna work? TEAMWORK!] <-- haha I even said that out loud that night :) Once it was floating in the air Scott told me to make a wish and to close my eyes. When he told me that I could open my eyes he was kneeling down in front of me and he asked me to marry him! I said YES and then gave him a huge hug and a few kisses. He then pulled out the ring and placed it on my finger and it felt so surreal! I had just driven back from Lake Powell a few hours earlier and now I was engaged!!!
We then sent off another floating lantern that Scott had and as we watched the second one float away people all around us started setting off their huge fireworks. It was absolute perfect timing! I didn't know whether to look at the lantern, Scott, the fireworks, or my ring! It was all so incredible! :D The rest of the night was spend in a daze of pure happiness as Scott and I walked around the park and then began to share the wonderful news with friends and family.
So now I am the luckiest and happiest girl in the world - and that happiness will somehow increase when I marry Scott Whitlock on December 17th in the Los Angeles Temple!!!
July 2011 was my favorite month ever- - so far :)
July was a month full of adventures and fun trips! And I will finally update about them all :)
Fourth of July Weekend Scott and I drove down to visit my family and spend some time in the California sun! We left Friday afternoon and rolled into Palmdale around 9:30. We had fun relaxing and hanging out with my family for the night.
Then on Saturday we met up with some of my extended family at a favorite restaurant of ours - Bear Pit! We then continued on to the beach where the weather was perfect.
Sunday we went to church with my family and then enjoyed dinner, games, and fireworks at my mom's house with my siblings. I love spending time with my nieces and nephews!
Monday we got all our stuff together, enjoyed some time at a BBQ at my dad's house, and then had to drive back to Utah. It was a quick trip, but it felt long as we made the most of all our time and had a blast!
The next weekend was the Harry Potter Marathon at Scott's aunt's house up in Salt Lake. We had a ton of fun there watching all the movies and even did a little Potter Trivia. Scott was not aware just how much I knew about Harry Potter, but now he knows! haha
The marathon had a break so that we could attended the homecoming for Scott's mission president. I loved meeting so many of the missionaries that I had heard stories about for so long! Many came up to us and asked "Is this the famous Holly?!" Apparently writing a letter a week can make a person famous! :) We had a great time there as Scott was able to catch up with old friends and companions and I was able to meet them in person.
The next weekend I drove to Page, AZ where I met up with family from California, Texas, and Idaho for a week on a houseboat at Lake Powell. This is my absolute favorite vacation! We get to wakeboard, wake surf, tube, play cards, eat delicious food, read, hang out with family, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. I was super excited for Powell, but at the same time I was sad to leave Scott behind. I enjoyed my time there, but I was ready to come home at the end of the week!
I drove back from Powell on Saturday July 23rd and that day was so amazing that it is going to deserve its very own post... :D
Fourth of July Weekend Scott and I drove down to visit my family and spend some time in the California sun! We left Friday afternoon and rolled into Palmdale around 9:30. We had fun relaxing and hanging out with my family for the night.
Then on Saturday we met up with some of my extended family at a favorite restaurant of ours - Bear Pit! We then continued on to the beach where the weather was perfect.
Sunday we went to church with my family and then enjoyed dinner, games, and fireworks at my mom's house with my siblings. I love spending time with my nieces and nephews!
Monday we got all our stuff together, enjoyed some time at a BBQ at my dad's house, and then had to drive back to Utah. It was a quick trip, but it felt long as we made the most of all our time and had a blast!
The next weekend was the Harry Potter Marathon at Scott's aunt's house up in Salt Lake. We had a ton of fun there watching all the movies and even did a little Potter Trivia. Scott was not aware just how much I knew about Harry Potter, but now he knows! haha
The marathon had a break so that we could attended the homecoming for Scott's mission president. I loved meeting so many of the missionaries that I had heard stories about for so long! Many came up to us and asked "Is this the famous Holly?!" Apparently writing a letter a week can make a person famous! :) We had a great time there as Scott was able to catch up with old friends and companions and I was able to meet them in person.
The next weekend I drove to Page, AZ where I met up with family from California, Texas, and Idaho for a week on a houseboat at Lake Powell. This is my absolute favorite vacation! We get to wakeboard, wake surf, tube, play cards, eat delicious food, read, hang out with family, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. I was super excited for Powell, but at the same time I was sad to leave Scott behind. I enjoyed my time there, but I was ready to come home at the end of the week!
I drove back from Powell on Saturday July 23rd and that day was so amazing that it is going to deserve its very own post... :D
Friday, July 15, 2011
Fridays are for Traveling
Friday June 17- drove to California for my family's vacation at a Beach House in Ventura
Friday June 24- drove up to Bountiful for a super fun double date with Scott and one of his former mission companions
Friday July 1- drove to California with Scott to spend the weekend with my family
Friday July 8- drove to Salt Lake to begin the epic Harry Potter Marathon
[Today] Friday July 15- I will be driving to Page, AZ to start off a week at Lake Powell with extended family
Fridays are just a day that must be spent in the car I guess. Next Friday I will not be driving anywhere as I will be out on the lake, but I'll get all my driving in the very next day when I return from Powell.
This summer has just been so amazing and jam-packed with awesome adventures! Someday I'll catch up and write about them, like seeing Owl City in concert on Wednesday and seeing the midnight showing of Harry Potter 7 last night. But in order to do that I'll have to stop having so much fun... and that is not likely to happen for a verrrrry long time :D
Friday June 24- drove up to Bountiful for a super fun double date with Scott and one of his former mission companions
Friday July 1- drove to California with Scott to spend the weekend with my family
Friday July 8- drove to Salt Lake to begin the epic Harry Potter Marathon
[Today] Friday July 15- I will be driving to Page, AZ to start off a week at Lake Powell with extended family
Fridays are just a day that must be spent in the car I guess. Next Friday I will not be driving anywhere as I will be out on the lake, but I'll get all my driving in the very next day when I return from Powell.
This summer has just been so amazing and jam-packed with awesome adventures! Someday I'll catch up and write about them, like seeing Owl City in concert on Wednesday and seeing the midnight showing of Harry Potter 7 last night. But in order to do that I'll have to stop having so much fun... and that is not likely to happen for a verrrrry long time :D
Friday, July 8, 2011
This Weekend
I had an amazing 4th of July weekend, but I do not have pictures of it because Scott was the photographer [check facebook for the photos if you are impatient :)]
But THIS weekend is going to be epic as well. In a few hours Scott and I will drive up to his aunt Diane's house for a HARRY POTTER MARATHON! Here is the schedule:
tonight: Harry Potter 1-3
Saturday: Harry Potter 4 & 5
Return to Provo where I will be catering a wedding
Sunday: Scott's Mission President's Homecoming
Harry Potter 6 & 7 pt 1
It is going to be EPIC! and it is getting us all ready for the premier in less than a week!
But THIS weekend is going to be epic as well. In a few hours Scott and I will drive up to his aunt Diane's house for a HARRY POTTER MARATHON! Here is the schedule:
tonight: Harry Potter 1-3
Saturday: Harry Potter 4 & 5
Return to Provo where I will be catering a wedding
Sunday: Scott's Mission President's Homecoming
Harry Potter 6 & 7 pt 1
It is going to be EPIC! and it is getting us all ready for the premier in less than a week!
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Summer 2011
I have been having an amazing summer so far! Having Scott back is INCREDIBLE!
-I finished my classes and all my finals on June 16th
-Scott drove into Provo late on June 17th and we had about 4 hours together before we had to get some sleep and I left the next morning for the beach house
It was so surreal to be in the same room as Scott! I just couldn't help but stare at him with a HUGE smile on my face! I can't even express how happy I was and how amazing it was to finally be with him!! :D
-Before Katy and I left on our road trip to California we briefly stopped by Springville to see Scott and so Katy could meet him finally :) Then we had a very long and very fun drive to Ventura, CA
-The beach house was super fun! I LOVE my family! We had a great time together catching up, relaxing, and laughing!
-June 23rd I flew back up to Utah and got to spend more than 4 hours with Scott! We went on a walk, ate at In-N-Out, and hiked up to Stewart Falls in Provo Canyon before coming back to watch Tangled together :)
-June 24th Scott and I drove up to Bountiful to go on a double date with one of his former companions. It was so cool to hear them talk about different mission stories and experiences. We made pizza, played Bocci Ball, and watched The Italian Job - it was so much fun!
-June 25th I worked a wedding as the Captain and it went really well :) Then Scott and I were able to hang out, but got the fortune of getting my first flat tire ever. We had a nice walk home together and since I was with Scott I really didn't care much about it.
-June 26th Scott came over after church and we made dinner, had a really great talk, and played Phase 10 with Mark and Ashley. Mark also changed my flat tire for me during the day, but at night we noticed that the donut on my car was flat - great.
-June 27th I filled my donut with air and got a new tire, bleh. And then was called into work for a few hours so Scott and I walked to campus together. After FHE we helped a friend of Scott's roommate with a community mural and then enjoyed the beautiful warm night by taking a walk in the park. A word of advice - pretty much every park/grassy area in Provo turns on their sprinklers starting at 9:30 and this makes a walk a grand adventure, haha
And I get to spend the rest of the summer just like this! I am not taking classes for Summer Term, I'm just working and spending as much time with Scott as possible- its amazing!! I am loving Summer 2011 and I have a feeling its just gonna keep getting better and better! :D
-I finished my classes and all my finals on June 16th
-Scott drove into Provo late on June 17th and we had about 4 hours together before we had to get some sleep and I left the next morning for the beach house
It was so surreal to be in the same room as Scott! I just couldn't help but stare at him with a HUGE smile on my face! I can't even express how happy I was and how amazing it was to finally be with him!! :D
-Before Katy and I left on our road trip to California we briefly stopped by Springville to see Scott and so Katy could meet him finally :) Then we had a very long and very fun drive to Ventura, CA
-The beach house was super fun! I LOVE my family! We had a great time together catching up, relaxing, and laughing!
-June 23rd I flew back up to Utah and got to spend more than 4 hours with Scott! We went on a walk, ate at In-N-Out, and hiked up to Stewart Falls in Provo Canyon before coming back to watch Tangled together :)
-June 24th Scott and I drove up to Bountiful to go on a double date with one of his former companions. It was so cool to hear them talk about different mission stories and experiences. We made pizza, played Bocci Ball, and watched The Italian Job - it was so much fun!
-June 25th I worked a wedding as the Captain and it went really well :) Then Scott and I were able to hang out, but got the fortune of getting my first flat tire ever. We had a nice walk home together and since I was with Scott I really didn't care much about it.
-June 26th Scott came over after church and we made dinner, had a really great talk, and played Phase 10 with Mark and Ashley. Mark also changed my flat tire for me during the day, but at night we noticed that the donut on my car was flat - great.
-June 27th I filled my donut with air and got a new tire, bleh. And then was called into work for a few hours so Scott and I walked to campus together. After FHE we helped a friend of Scott's roommate with a community mural and then enjoyed the beautiful warm night by taking a walk in the park. A word of advice - pretty much every park/grassy area in Provo turns on their sprinklers starting at 9:30 and this makes a walk a grand adventure, haha
And I get to spend the rest of the summer just like this! I am not taking classes for Summer Term, I'm just working and spending as much time with Scott as possible- its amazing!! I am loving Summer 2011 and I have a feeling its just gonna keep getting better and better! :D
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Work Work Work
Here at school I have the fortune of working for BYU Catering. I started there Fall 2009, so I've spent quite some time there. I really like the job and have made some great friends with some of my coworkers :)
Its a great job that is flexible with the hours and will allow me to take time off for family vacations this summer [like the Beach House at the end of this week!!] But with this flexibility there is a lot of adventures... Some weeks I work 0-2 shifts, sometimes I work every day of the week, and sometimes I have 3 shifts in a day for two days in a row.
Yeah, last Thursday and Friday were insane! I am training right now to be a Captain, the one in charge of a banquet that directs the whole crew of Wait Staff, so I had Captain-Trainee shifts on Thursday and Friday at 6:30 am. And EFY is in full swing here in Provo so We are feeding those hooligans every day, as well as many different Sports Camps that are going on here, so then both Thursday and Friday I worked on a shift for one of those groups of kids, and then each night I served or cleaned up a dinner banquet. Thursday I wasn't supposed to be in charge, but then kind of was anyway, and Friday was a wedding where I was a Captain-Trainee again.
Thursday 6:30 am - 11 pm. Thats when my first shift started and my last shift ended. Then Friday 6:30 am - 9:30 pm. Whew... needless to say on Saturday I did a whole lotta NOTHING! It was amazing :)
This week I just have one shift each day until Friday when I will be leaving with my cousin Katy to meet up with all of our awesome Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, etc at a beach house in Venture, CA. I am super excited to see so much family and enjoy the relaxation, but it does stink that I leave Friday morning and Scott is finally arriving in Provo that night. TERRIBLE timing, right?! But I guess after 2 years an extra week shouldn't be toooooo bad... we'll see though :)
For now though, since all my roommates are gone and my classes are over I am happy to have work to keep me busy and give me something to do until I am done procrastinating my one final ;)
Its a great job that is flexible with the hours and will allow me to take time off for family vacations this summer [like the Beach House at the end of this week!!] But with this flexibility there is a lot of adventures... Some weeks I work 0-2 shifts, sometimes I work every day of the week, and sometimes I have 3 shifts in a day for two days in a row.
Yeah, last Thursday and Friday were insane! I am training right now to be a Captain, the one in charge of a banquet that directs the whole crew of Wait Staff, so I had Captain-Trainee shifts on Thursday and Friday at 6:30 am. And EFY is in full swing here in Provo so We are feeding those hooligans every day, as well as many different Sports Camps that are going on here, so then both Thursday and Friday I worked on a shift for one of those groups of kids, and then each night I served or cleaned up a dinner banquet. Thursday I wasn't supposed to be in charge, but then kind of was anyway, and Friday was a wedding where I was a Captain-Trainee again.
Thursday 6:30 am - 11 pm. Thats when my first shift started and my last shift ended. Then Friday 6:30 am - 9:30 pm. Whew... needless to say on Saturday I did a whole lotta NOTHING! It was amazing :)
This week I just have one shift each day until Friday when I will be leaving with my cousin Katy to meet up with all of our awesome Aunts, Uncles, Cousins, etc at a beach house in Venture, CA. I am super excited to see so much family and enjoy the relaxation, but it does stink that I leave Friday morning and Scott is finally arriving in Provo that night. TERRIBLE timing, right?! But I guess after 2 years an extra week shouldn't be toooooo bad... we'll see though :)
For now though, since all my roommates are gone and my classes are over I am happy to have work to keep me busy and give me something to do until I am done procrastinating my one final ;)
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
June 1st :)
A week ago right now I was freaking out. A lot.
I had just found out that Scott's flight was cancelled and he would NOT be landing at 2:55 EST at the airport close to his house, but instead he was placed on a flight landing around 4 in Baltimore instead. In retrospect, this really isn't that big of a change, but at the time it was HUGE!
But then his flight kept getting delayed and we were worried it was also going to be cancelled! Shannon and I were texting and venting to each other for a while. I'm very grateful for that :) So to pass my newfound time I did some laundry... incessantly checked the flight status... and watched Tangled with my good friend/my roommate's fiance Mark. I love that movie and it was just what I needed right then :)
Then Scott finally landed!! I was flustered and anxious and all over the place. And then Shannon sent me a picture message with Scott and "Cardboard Holly" as I like to call her. It was the sweetest thing ever - Shannon blew up a picture of me and brought me to the airport on a stick to welcome home Scott with their family! Isn't that the best idea ever? I loved it! I stared at that picture of "us" for a good five minutes at least :)
But the airport was crazy and Scott's luggage was lost, then I guess they were in traffic on their drive back home so it was a while before I got to talk to Scott on the phone. He called me outside the restaurant they stopped at and it was such an awesome 20 minute phone conversation! It seemed unreal!
Then that night after making it back home and getting released from the Stake President, Scott and I got to Skype! After 2 (very long) years I got to (sort of) talk to him face-to-face! I had the biggest smile on my face! I was so excited and so happy! Before we knew it, it had almost been 3 hours.
And since then we have Skyped every day. I'm still getting used to being able to talk to him whenever I want! :) It is so great to have him back!!
We made it!! :D
I had just found out that Scott's flight was cancelled and he would NOT be landing at 2:55 EST at the airport close to his house, but instead he was placed on a flight landing around 4 in Baltimore instead. In retrospect, this really isn't that big of a change, but at the time it was HUGE!
But then his flight kept getting delayed and we were worried it was also going to be cancelled! Shannon and I were texting and venting to each other for a while. I'm very grateful for that :) So to pass my newfound time I did some laundry... incessantly checked the flight status... and watched Tangled with my good friend/my roommate's fiance Mark. I love that movie and it was just what I needed right then :)
Then Scott finally landed!! I was flustered and anxious and all over the place. And then Shannon sent me a picture message with Scott and "Cardboard Holly" as I like to call her. It was the sweetest thing ever - Shannon blew up a picture of me and brought me to the airport on a stick to welcome home Scott with their family! Isn't that the best idea ever? I loved it! I stared at that picture of "us" for a good five minutes at least :)
But the airport was crazy and Scott's luggage was lost, then I guess they were in traffic on their drive back home so it was a while before I got to talk to Scott on the phone. He called me outside the restaurant they stopped at and it was such an awesome 20 minute phone conversation! It seemed unreal!
Then that night after making it back home and getting released from the Stake President, Scott and I got to Skype! After 2 (very long) years I got to (sort of) talk to him face-to-face! I had the biggest smile on my face! I was so excited and so happy! Before we knew it, it had almost been 3 hours.
And since then we have Skyped every day. I'm still getting used to being able to talk to him whenever I want! :) It is so great to have him back!!
We made it!! :D
Friday, June 3, 2011
Life is so happy!
So, the wait is (finally) over and Scott is home!!! I am so grateful for Skype so that we can talk and be sort of face-to-face. He's the best and I am so happy to be able to talk to him everyday!
Scott showed this song to me yesterday and right now I feel like it describes my life perfectly. I love making connections between songs and my life and this one does it perfectly!
Scott showed this song to me yesterday and right now I feel like it describes my life perfectly. I love making connections between songs and my life and this one does it perfectly!
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Because I can't sleep...
My eyes are tired but my stomach is twisted in anticipation and my mind is whirling. 12 hours from now it will be so much worse because 12 hours from now Scott's plane will be about to land.
TWELVE HOURS!!
This is just starting to really hit me and I know that it is only going to get stronger.
I have waited for over 2 years for Scott to come home from his mission. And its happening today.
Wow.
Tomorrow is going to be epic. :)
TWELVE HOURS!!
This is just starting to really hit me and I know that it is only going to get stronger.
I have waited for over 2 years for Scott to come home from his mission. And its happening today.
Wow.
Tomorrow is going to be epic. :)
Monday, May 30, 2011
Best Distraction Ever
So this past week I had TONS of assignments and projects (with a few more this week too...) which kept me pretty busy and helped to keep me on my toes. It was much better to be on my toes than jumping up and down staring at the countdown until Scott comes home.
Then Friday night came and I was left with little to do (aka no more motivation). The down time got me pretty down. My roommate Ashley got engaged that night [Hooray!!] but I was a Debby Downer for sure. And I hate being a Debby Downer. As I was sitting in my room I heard someone knock on the front door. Intrigued, I turned down my music, but didn't hear anyone. Then they knocked on my bedroom door and I was super confused as to who would be coming to talk to me at 10:30. Then in walked my mom! I guess I screamed pretty loud and I was in shock- my mama drove to Utah to surprise me for a weekend trip!!
It was the perfect timing! I loved having her here in Utah with me! I was able to show her around Provo, laugh, visit Temple Square and take fun pictures, spend time with family, enjoy the rain, and it was the best weekend. It was just what I needed right when I needed it most!
She stayed until this afternoon when she drove back to California (and she's nearing the end of her drive as I type this!) I was so happy to have my mom here for the weekend! It was the best distraction I could have asked for :)
Now I have lots to do tomorrow - my last full day before Scott comes home!!! 37 hours to go! :D
Then Friday night came and I was left with little to do (aka no more motivation). The down time got me pretty down. My roommate Ashley got engaged that night [Hooray!!] but I was a Debby Downer for sure. And I hate being a Debby Downer. As I was sitting in my room I heard someone knock on the front door. Intrigued, I turned down my music, but didn't hear anyone. Then they knocked on my bedroom door and I was super confused as to who would be coming to talk to me at 10:30. Then in walked my mom! I guess I screamed pretty loud and I was in shock- my mama drove to Utah to surprise me for a weekend trip!!
It was the perfect timing! I loved having her here in Utah with me! I was able to show her around Provo, laugh, visit Temple Square and take fun pictures, spend time with family, enjoy the rain, and it was the best weekend. It was just what I needed right when I needed it most!
She stayed until this afternoon when she drove back to California (and she's nearing the end of her drive as I type this!) I was so happy to have my mom here for the weekend! It was the best distraction I could have asked for :)
Now I have lots to do tomorrow - my last full day before Scott comes home!!! 37 hours to go! :D
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
I thrive under pressure
In high school I discovered my true nature of completing assignments - procrastinate and then cram. It worked for me. I got used to it. I still follow this method.
This week all of my classes decided to have their major projects and assignments due, including one midterm. So I am thriving in my element. I turned in a big paper and did a presentation for my class last night, I did 2 hours of service for a project due tomorrow (which I'll finish the other 2 hours of service in the afternoon), and now I still have 2 more lesson plans to complete for a big assignment due at 4. Then my late class tonight has a little activity with a handout that I need to complete, which I'll do in my break between classes.
Some people [like Karina :)] would be super stressed out with all this going on at once. But I am realizing that I like the pressure. I do better with a deadline :) This is my element. Here I go!
Plus having all this to do helps distract me from the fact that Scott comes home in 8 days!!!!
This week all of my classes decided to have their major projects and assignments due, including one midterm. So I am thriving in my element. I turned in a big paper and did a presentation for my class last night, I did 2 hours of service for a project due tomorrow (which I'll finish the other 2 hours of service in the afternoon), and now I still have 2 more lesson plans to complete for a big assignment due at 4. Then my late class tonight has a little activity with a handout that I need to complete, which I'll do in my break between classes.
Some people [like Karina :)] would be super stressed out with all this going on at once. But I am realizing that I like the pressure. I do better with a deadline :) This is my element. Here I go!
Plus having all this to do helps distract me from the fact that Scott comes home in 8 days!!!!
Saturday, May 21, 2011
Just some thoughts
If you may not know, I am studying to become an Elementary teacher and my minor is Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages which basically helps prepare me to be an effective teacher for students in my class whose first language is not English. Right now I am staying Spring Term to take a few classes for this minor, one of which is Family, School, and Community Partnerships. For this class I had to visit the home of a family with students who are English Language Learners and I have to write a paper and give a presentation about it. I did my visit yesterday and the father shared some great insights and thoughts with us that really struck me.
He said that he had a great lifestyle and status in Venezuela, greater than he has here now, but that he would not change it for anything. Their family lived in a nice area of the city but they still had many problems with safety and security - like being robbed and their car stolen at gun point. They came to America because they wanted to have a better life for their children. He has a great love for this country and the opportunities it has given him. They are now US Citizens and although he loves his native country of Venezuela, he loves America more.
One of the most impressive things he said to me was that when people question his love for the United States or they comment on his thick accent he says this: I may speak with broken English, but my heart is not broken. It is whole and proud to be an American.
Another thing he said was that many people have esteemed professional jobs in their native countries and they give up everything to come to the United States for their children to have greater opportunities. They leave everything behind and they do menial jobs like cook, clean, and mow lawns when they are doctors, engineers, and teachers in their native country. Just because they speak less English or with an accent does not mean they are less educated.
This man taught me a lot about not judging others and being grateful for the blessings in my life. It was a really great experience for me to spend some time in this family's home and get to know them more, because it is easier to learn a lot more in a real-life situation than in a classroom. I hope that I will remember the things this family told me and I will be able to apply the life lessons they taught.
He said that he had a great lifestyle and status in Venezuela, greater than he has here now, but that he would not change it for anything. Their family lived in a nice area of the city but they still had many problems with safety and security - like being robbed and their car stolen at gun point. They came to America because they wanted to have a better life for their children. He has a great love for this country and the opportunities it has given him. They are now US Citizens and although he loves his native country of Venezuela, he loves America more.
One of the most impressive things he said to me was that when people question his love for the United States or they comment on his thick accent he says this: I may speak with broken English, but my heart is not broken. It is whole and proud to be an American.
Another thing he said was that many people have esteemed professional jobs in their native countries and they give up everything to come to the United States for their children to have greater opportunities. They leave everything behind and they do menial jobs like cook, clean, and mow lawns when they are doctors, engineers, and teachers in their native country. Just because they speak less English or with an accent does not mean they are less educated.
This man taught me a lot about not judging others and being grateful for the blessings in my life. It was a really great experience for me to spend some time in this family's home and get to know them more, because it is easier to learn a lot more in a real-life situation than in a classroom. I hope that I will remember the things this family told me and I will be able to apply the life lessons they taught.
Friday, May 13, 2011
May is the best month
I have always loved the month of May. Maybe it has to do with the fact that my birthday is in May... but there is so much more!
May is just a beautiful sounding word/name.
May flowers are beautiful.
The weather is finally getting so nice!
School is over/soon over.
You get to wear flip-flops and shorts again!
Yellow and pink are big spring colors.
Mother's Day is in May, and everyone loves Mothers!
Summer is right around the corner with all the exciting plans for vacations.
I could go on and on.
Moral of the story: May rocks.
I have always thought these things, but now May is even more exciting for me. May is the last month that stands between me and Scott. He comes home on June 1st! That is less than 3 weeks from now!! Elder Whitclock reported to the MTC on May 27, 2009 and he is finally coming home June 1, 2011.
The best month of the year is the last month before we are back together - I can take that :) It just makes May that much more happy and exciting for me!
May is just a beautiful sounding word/name.
May flowers are beautiful.
The weather is finally getting so nice!
School is over/soon over.
You get to wear flip-flops and shorts again!
Yellow and pink are big spring colors.
Mother's Day is in May, and everyone loves Mothers!
Summer is right around the corner with all the exciting plans for vacations.
I could go on and on.
Moral of the story: May rocks.
I have always thought these things, but now May is even more exciting for me. May is the last month that stands between me and Scott. He comes home on June 1st! That is less than 3 weeks from now!! Elder Whitclock reported to the MTC on May 27, 2009 and he is finally coming home June 1, 2011.
The best month of the year is the last month before we are back together - I can take that :) It just makes May that much more happy and exciting for me!
Friday, May 6, 2011
21 years old
Yesterday I turned 21 years old. Wow. I was talking to my brother and I told him that it doesn't seem right that I, the baby, am now 21. Babies are not 21 years old. Its just weird. But very exciting at the same time. I predict that this will be the most exciting and adventurous year of my life :)
So this morning I woke up and I was a teeny bit miserable. I ended up sitting on the bathroom floor. I was very tired and my body hurt. Does this sound like a typical experience the morning after a person turns 21? Well let me tell you how it came to be:
I woke up around 6 am on my birthday (Cinco de Mayo) and I hiked up to the Y here in Provo with my best friend Karina. We wore sombreros for the occasion and got many stares and laughs, we loved it! We got to the top a little before 7:30 and we were able to see the sun spread across Utah Valley; it was gorgeous. For both of us, this was our 5th time hiking the Y, appropriate for 5.5.2011 no? :)
We took many pictures and laughed and loved it all! We got a few songs stuck in our heads along the way, so at the top we listened to them on my new iPhone. One of those songs was the little music video after the game Plants vs. Zombies that my sister showed me, so we looked it up and watched it. At the end of the video it said that the game was created on 5.5.2009 - so we celebrated the birthday of PvZ too! haha
Then we went home, got ready for the day and had a fun picnic at the park! HACKM [Holly, Ashley, Clarissa, Karina, Mark] enjoyed the sun and the glorious weather and took lots of super fun pictures. Then I had work, then class, an hour break, and another class til 9:30 pm. But my roommates informed me that they were going to pick me up during my break, so at home I was greeted by the delicious smell of burritos. And a gorgeous bouquet of daisies from Scott!! And I got a letter with the memory card in it too! I screamed and jumped and smiled so big. It was PERFECT.
We enjoyed our food and my roommates gave me my presents, including a package from my my mama! I then had a slice of cake and had to rush off for my next class. But it was a birthday miracle because we got out at 8:45! :D That NEVER happens! I got to talk to my brother on the phone as I walked home and then relaxed with my roommates and a few friends that happened to be over. Mark then gave me his present - Tangled on DVD! That is my favorite movie! But the friends had to go and Karina and I played some card games as Ashley and Clarissa did laundry and whatnot. But then out of nowhere I had a blindfold on and I was being directed out to the car! My roommates played really loud music and spun me around and wouldn't tell me where we were going.
I was blind, but singing and laughing and then I was guided through a strange area outside before my blindfold was removed and there was a small group of friends around a fire pit with the fixings for s'mores! It was the best! We laughed and danced and ate delicious roasted marshmallows, I loved it! Then we even got to watch Tangled, a perfect ending to the perfect day. :)
So waking up with a stuffed, and then bloody, nose isn't the worst thing to happen. And being tired and sore from so many adventures and clean fun times is NOT the worst way to spend the day after my 21st birthday. :) I definitely started off this year of my life with a bang and I am so ready for everything else that is coming! :D
So this morning I woke up and I was a teeny bit miserable. I ended up sitting on the bathroom floor. I was very tired and my body hurt. Does this sound like a typical experience the morning after a person turns 21? Well let me tell you how it came to be:
I woke up around 6 am on my birthday (Cinco de Mayo) and I hiked up to the Y here in Provo with my best friend Karina. We wore sombreros for the occasion and got many stares and laughs, we loved it! We got to the top a little before 7:30 and we were able to see the sun spread across Utah Valley; it was gorgeous. For both of us, this was our 5th time hiking the Y, appropriate for 5.5.2011 no? :)
We took many pictures and laughed and loved it all! We got a few songs stuck in our heads along the way, so at the top we listened to them on my new iPhone. One of those songs was the little music video after the game Plants vs. Zombies that my sister showed me, so we looked it up and watched it. At the end of the video it said that the game was created on 5.5.2009 - so we celebrated the birthday of PvZ too! haha
Then we went home, got ready for the day and had a fun picnic at the park! HACKM [Holly, Ashley, Clarissa, Karina, Mark] enjoyed the sun and the glorious weather and took lots of super fun pictures. Then I had work, then class, an hour break, and another class til 9:30 pm. But my roommates informed me that they were going to pick me up during my break, so at home I was greeted by the delicious smell of burritos. And a gorgeous bouquet of daisies from Scott!! And I got a letter with the memory card in it too! I screamed and jumped and smiled so big. It was PERFECT.
We enjoyed our food and my roommates gave me my presents, including a package from my my mama! I then had a slice of cake and had to rush off for my next class. But it was a birthday miracle because we got out at 8:45! :D That NEVER happens! I got to talk to my brother on the phone as I walked home and then relaxed with my roommates and a few friends that happened to be over. Mark then gave me his present - Tangled on DVD! That is my favorite movie! But the friends had to go and Karina and I played some card games as Ashley and Clarissa did laundry and whatnot. But then out of nowhere I had a blindfold on and I was being directed out to the car! My roommates played really loud music and spun me around and wouldn't tell me where we were going.
I was blind, but singing and laughing and then I was guided through a strange area outside before my blindfold was removed and there was a small group of friends around a fire pit with the fixings for s'mores! It was the best! We laughed and danced and ate delicious roasted marshmallows, I loved it! Then we even got to watch Tangled, a perfect ending to the perfect day. :)
So waking up with a stuffed, and then bloody, nose isn't the worst thing to happen. And being tired and sore from so many adventures and clean fun times is NOT the worst way to spend the day after my 21st birthday. :) I definitely started off this year of my life with a bang and I am so ready for everything else that is coming! :D
Monday, April 18, 2011
Over a month later...
I fully survived Practicum [with only a head cold]!
I am done with all classes for my Junior year of college!
I have 3 more finals to take before I am officially a Senior!
I was notified today that I received a scholarship from the David O. McKay School of Education!!!
I get to visit home in 4 days!
Scott comes home in less than 7 weeks!!!
Life is very exciting right now. And busy. I promise I will update fully on everything soon. But as for right now I am trying to keep up with all the things that need to be done ASAP as possible ;) And as I was just told over the phone "We love you Holly, but we know you are a procrastinator..." bahaha. Oh how my family knows me :) I'll get to work to fight the procrastination in me.
Here I go....!
I am done with all classes for my Junior year of college!
I have 3 more finals to take before I am officially a Senior!
I was notified today that I received a scholarship from the David O. McKay School of Education!!!
I get to visit home in 4 days!
Scott comes home in less than 7 weeks!!!
Life is very exciting right now. And busy. I promise I will update fully on everything soon. But as for right now I am trying to keep up with all the things that need to be done ASAP as possible ;) And as I was just told over the phone "We love you Holly, but we know you are a procrastinator..." bahaha. Oh how my family knows me :) I'll get to work to fight the procrastination in me.
Here I go....!
Sunday, March 13, 2011
Week 1 - CHECK!
I can hardly believe that I have already been in the schools for a whole week already. I SURVIVED! :)
I love working in an actual classroom with second graders. I don't always love those second graders... but I love the experience I am getting and how much I am learning as I get to actually put my knowledge into practice. Practicum = Practice. And I am starting to really understand that.
I observed a lot for the first few days, taking notes of how my mentor teacher runs the class and the routine for the students each day. Then on Tuesday I had my first formal observation. I taught a little Guided Reading group about Expression as they read "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day" and it went really well. I got a bit nervous right beforehand because its intimidating to have 2 amazing and experienced women watching my every move and listening to my every word. They were so sweet and supportive though as we discussed the lesson afterward and they gave me some awesome compliments and suggestions.
The end of the week was a bit adventurous as my teacher was out of town at a conference and I was left in the class with a substitute. I felt confident being able to take up a bit more responsibility and helping the sub understand how certain things go in the class. But then on Friday the substitute had to leave at 1:45 and I was left with the class all by myself until the end of the day at 3:15. That was insane. The class is normally very talkative and there are a few problem students who require more patience and supervision, so I was VERY grateful when the bell finally rang and the weekend arrived!!
Now this week I will be teaching more whole-class lessons and then I will have my second formal observation on Wednesday teaching a Whole-Class Direct Instruction Lesson. I am nervous to see how the students will be, but I'm excited to see how I do.
But my mentor teacher is going to be gone again Tuesday-Thursday for knee surgery... I would appreciate any prayers on my behalf that the students will cooperate and my lesson will go smoothly!
Here we go....!
I love working in an actual classroom with second graders. I don't always love those second graders... but I love the experience I am getting and how much I am learning as I get to actually put my knowledge into practice. Practicum = Practice. And I am starting to really understand that.
I observed a lot for the first few days, taking notes of how my mentor teacher runs the class and the routine for the students each day. Then on Tuesday I had my first formal observation. I taught a little Guided Reading group about Expression as they read "Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day" and it went really well. I got a bit nervous right beforehand because its intimidating to have 2 amazing and experienced women watching my every move and listening to my every word. They were so sweet and supportive though as we discussed the lesson afterward and they gave me some awesome compliments and suggestions.
The end of the week was a bit adventurous as my teacher was out of town at a conference and I was left in the class with a substitute. I felt confident being able to take up a bit more responsibility and helping the sub understand how certain things go in the class. But then on Friday the substitute had to leave at 1:45 and I was left with the class all by myself until the end of the day at 3:15. That was insane. The class is normally very talkative and there are a few problem students who require more patience and supervision, so I was VERY grateful when the bell finally rang and the weekend arrived!!
Now this week I will be teaching more whole-class lessons and then I will have my second formal observation on Wednesday teaching a Whole-Class Direct Instruction Lesson. I am nervous to see how the students will be, but I'm excited to see how I do.
But my mentor teacher is going to be gone again Tuesday-Thursday for knee surgery... I would appreciate any prayers on my behalf that the students will cooperate and my lesson will go smoothly!
Here we go....!
Monday, February 28, 2011
Tomorrow is March
Currently, I am terrified of March. March is the month I will be working in an elementary school with a mentor teacher.
I will meet my mentor teacher on Thursday. Then in the afternoon I will substitute a first, second, or third grade class all by myself. ALL. BY. MYSELF.
Then Friday will be my first day in the 2nd grade classroom where I will eventually work up to teaching a lesson a day. I will have certain observations I need to make, assessments I need to administer, types of lessons I need to give, be observed and even recorded.
I have been so excited for this for so long. But right now all I feel is terror.
what if...
what if...
but...
what if...
what do i do...
but...
how...
what if...
This is going to be a bigger adventure than I bargained for.
I will meet my mentor teacher on Thursday. Then in the afternoon I will substitute a first, second, or third grade class all by myself. ALL. BY. MYSELF.
Then Friday will be my first day in the 2nd grade classroom where I will eventually work up to teaching a lesson a day. I will have certain observations I need to make, assessments I need to administer, types of lessons I need to give, be observed and even recorded.
I have been so excited for this for so long. But right now all I feel is terror.
what if...
what if...
but...
what if...
what do i do...
but...
how...
what if...
This is going to be a bigger adventure than I bargained for.
Monday, February 21, 2011
3-Day-Weekend!
This is the last holiday until the end of the semester. Kind of sad that it only happens halfway through the entire semester, but hey- I'm grateful for it!
Friday I ended up working a double shift and covering for a sick friend, so when I got home I rested my legs and enjoyed an episode of Chuck. Such a great show! :D
Saturday I felt sick when I woke up and I was pretty much a bum for a long time, but I started feeling better and was able to drive up to Salt Lake with Karina to hang out with our friend Trent! We hadn't seen him in such a long time, but his birthday was recent so we went up to have a late celebration. We laughed and caught up and enjoyed some goood food at The Pie in SLC. The food was greasy and delicious. The atmosphere was fun and relaxed. The company was hilarious. A great combination!
Then we got some super delicious cheese cake from the Cheesecake Factory and shared those before watching a few episodes of Chuck. Karina doesn't watch the show, unlike Trent and I who are HUGE fans, so we caught her up on the first 2 episodes of the series. True friends share what they love, right? :)
It ended up snowing for about a little bit while we were there and I was able to enjoy the huge flakes in my new coat for the first time! So much fun.
Seriously, the whole night was amazing!
Sunday was great with church and some friends over for dinner. Karina made delicious Best-Friend-Burritos and Ashley made home-made brownies. YUMM
Now its Monday and I finished my homework, did my laundry, and practiced curling my hair. For one of my classes I have to spend 10 hours learning something new, and I have never learned how to curl my hair, so that is what I chose. I have felt unlike a true girl for not having this skill, so my roommates are helping me :) It was a pretty frustrating process, but here is my first attempt. FYI- Karina helped me with a few critical pieces, but here is the finished product:
Now I'm going to enjoy the rest of this holiday with reading and then watching the Bachelor with my roommates [my guilty pleasure]. Have a great President's Day Everybody!
Friday I ended up working a double shift and covering for a sick friend, so when I got home I rested my legs and enjoyed an episode of Chuck. Such a great show! :D
Saturday I felt sick when I woke up and I was pretty much a bum for a long time, but I started feeling better and was able to drive up to Salt Lake with Karina to hang out with our friend Trent! We hadn't seen him in such a long time, but his birthday was recent so we went up to have a late celebration. We laughed and caught up and enjoyed some goood food at The Pie in SLC. The food was greasy and delicious. The atmosphere was fun and relaxed. The company was hilarious. A great combination!
Then we got some super delicious cheese cake from the Cheesecake Factory and shared those before watching a few episodes of Chuck. Karina doesn't watch the show, unlike Trent and I who are HUGE fans, so we caught her up on the first 2 episodes of the series. True friends share what they love, right? :)
It ended up snowing for about a little bit while we were there and I was able to enjoy the huge flakes in my new coat for the first time! So much fun.
Seriously, the whole night was amazing!
Sunday was great with church and some friends over for dinner. Karina made delicious Best-Friend-Burritos and Ashley made home-made brownies. YUMM
Now its Monday and I finished my homework, did my laundry, and practiced curling my hair. For one of my classes I have to spend 10 hours learning something new, and I have never learned how to curl my hair, so that is what I chose. I have felt unlike a true girl for not having this skill, so my roommates are helping me :) It was a pretty frustrating process, but here is my first attempt. FYI- Karina helped me with a few critical pieces, but here is the finished product:
Now I'm going to enjoy the rest of this holiday with reading and then watching the Bachelor with my roommates [my guilty pleasure]. Have a great President's Day Everybody!
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Fantastic February
February is amazing, and this post is dedicated to the awesomeness of this month:
-Valentine's Day! My Math class usually gets out super early so we decided to throw ourselves a classic Elementary School Valentine's Party with candy and to pass out valentine cards to everyone. It was SO much fun! I love my major!
-The main reason I love Valentine's Day though is because its the day that Scott and I went on our first date :) I can hardly believe it was 2 whole years ago!
-Along with February marking the first date for me and Scott it marks a lot of other firsts and great memories together :)
-February is a short month and means its getting close to June- the EPIC exciting month of the summer, of the YEAR! [Scott comes home June 1st :)]
-Another 3-day weekend! I love getting an extra day to relax and have adventures with my friends. This 3-day weekend coming up will be the last holiday of the semester, so I plan on enjoying it!
-My classes are winding down and my Practicum will start in March! I'll meet my Mentor Teacher on March 3rd and then start working in the Second Grade classroom the next day!
Moral of this post: February is an exciting month! :D
-Valentine's Day! My Math class usually gets out super early so we decided to throw ourselves a classic Elementary School Valentine's Party with candy and to pass out valentine cards to everyone. It was SO much fun! I love my major!
-The main reason I love Valentine's Day though is because its the day that Scott and I went on our first date :) I can hardly believe it was 2 whole years ago!
-Along with February marking the first date for me and Scott it marks a lot of other firsts and great memories together :)
-February is a short month and means its getting close to June- the EPIC exciting month of the summer, of the YEAR! [Scott comes home June 1st :)]
-Another 3-day weekend! I love getting an extra day to relax and have adventures with my friends. This 3-day weekend coming up will be the last holiday of the semester, so I plan on enjoying it!
-My classes are winding down and my Practicum will start in March! I'll meet my Mentor Teacher on March 3rd and then start working in the Second Grade classroom the next day!
Moral of this post: February is an exciting month! :D
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Oregon/Washington Trip
I had an amazing time in Oregon/Washington for my cousin's wedding! It was my third annual Winter Semester Wedding Weekend
Freshman: Heather
Sophomore: Jesi
Junior: Lauren
Who's gonna be the bride for my Senior year? ;)
It was great to spend time with my family that I hadn't seen in so long! We had delicious food that my aunt Shelley made, laughed (at each other a lot), and had tons of fun remembering old times.
I am so grateful that I was able to fly out for a quick trip and be with family!
Here is a collage of most of my pictures from the trip.
I also had a good time being a tourist and taking pictures, which made my cousins laugh at me.
The picture on the top right is of my view looking out the plane window when we finally broke through the clouds!
The bottom right is the entrance to my aunt's house- gorgeous!
I wish that I could have had more time there, but it was a perfect little trip.
When I landed in SLC it was the end of the 3rd quarter and the Packers were beating the Steelers in the SuperBowl. I got to watch a few minutes on a TV in the airport as I waited for the Karina to come get me and then won as I drove into Provo! Hoo-ray! A great weekend indeed!
Freshman: Heather
Sophomore: Jesi
Junior: Lauren
Who's gonna be the bride for my Senior year? ;)
It was great to spend time with my family that I hadn't seen in so long! We had delicious food that my aunt Shelley made, laughed (at each other a lot), and had tons of fun remembering old times.
I am so grateful that I was able to fly out for a quick trip and be with family!
Here is a collage of most of my pictures from the trip.
I also had a good time being a tourist and taking pictures, which made my cousins laugh at me.
The picture on the top right is of my view looking out the plane window when we finally broke through the clouds!
The bottom right is the entrance to my aunt's house- gorgeous!
I wish that I could have had more time there, but it was a perfect little trip.
When I landed in SLC it was the end of the 3rd quarter and the Packers were beating the Steelers in the SuperBowl. I got to watch a few minutes on a TV in the airport as I waited for the Karina to come get me and then won as I drove into Provo! Hoo-ray! A great weekend indeed!
Friday, February 4, 2011
"I made it through the wilderness... you know I made it through-ooh-ooh. Didn't know how lost I was until I found you!"
for some reason this is the song that popped in my head when I realized I am finally DONE with this week!! But just so you know, the version stuck in my head is the one from the beginning of the Shrek mash of songs at the end of the first movie :)
I have completed ALL my tests now [the math one took me 2 hours and 35 minutes yesterday... ugh]
My papers have been turned in
My lesson went pretty well
I finished all my reading [even though it got close at the end cause I kept falling asleep...]
I attended all my classes [and even got a famous BYU Chocolate Mint Brownie for attending one of them!]
all in all, its OVER :)
Now I have printed my boarding pass and all that is left to do it pack- since I am a procrastinator and naturally I have yet to do this. But hey, I was prioritizing this week so I think its perfectly acceptable to not have that done yet. The way I look at it I still have 4 whole hours before that is a problem ;)
Have a wonderful weekend everybody! I will be sure to take lots of pictures from my trip!!
and PS- I'll be on a plane when the game is on so I'll just say it now- GO PACKERS!
for some reason this is the song that popped in my head when I realized I am finally DONE with this week!! But just so you know, the version stuck in my head is the one from the beginning of the Shrek mash of songs at the end of the first movie :)
I have completed ALL my tests now [the math one took me 2 hours and 35 minutes yesterday... ugh]
My papers have been turned in
My lesson went pretty well
I finished all my reading [even though it got close at the end cause I kept falling asleep...]
I attended all my classes [and even got a famous BYU Chocolate Mint Brownie for attending one of them!]
all in all, its OVER :)
Now I have printed my boarding pass and all that is left to do it pack- since I am a procrastinator and naturally I have yet to do this. But hey, I was prioritizing this week so I think its perfectly acceptable to not have that done yet. The way I look at it I still have 4 whole hours before that is a problem ;)
Have a wonderful weekend everybody! I will be sure to take lots of pictures from my trip!!
and PS- I'll be on a plane when the game is on so I'll just say it now- GO PACKERS!
Tuesday, February 1, 2011
update:
I have completed 2 of my tests, I'll probably end up taking my math one Thursday
And I have completed my YouTube Digital Story for my Instructional Psychology and Technology Class. I adapted a storybook I drew for my Elementary Music class last semester so it is the song Old Macdonald. Here's a link to it if you care to take a look- Old Macdonald
Today I also met with my group and my teacher to prepare the lesson we are presenting on Thursday so I feel a lot better about that.
I still have a lot to do this week, but its been going really well so far! :)
3 days from now I'll be in Oregon!
And I have completed my YouTube Digital Story for my Instructional Psychology and Technology Class. I adapted a storybook I drew for my Elementary Music class last semester so it is the song Old Macdonald. Here's a link to it if you care to take a look- Old Macdonald
Today I also met with my group and my teacher to prepare the lesson we are presenting on Thursday so I feel a lot better about that.
I still have a lot to do this week, but its been going really well so far! :)
3 days from now I'll be in Oregon!
Monday, January 31, 2011
busy busy busy
This week consists of:
3 tests [math, piano, and phonics]
creating a Digital Story to post on YouTube
Writing a Behavior Intervention Plan
Teaching a recorded lesson in my Educational Psychology class
2 small papers due in my Friday class
Reading for 4 classes
whew.... I've got a lot to do to keep up with all my classes!
But it will all be worth it because on Friday I am flying out to Portland! My cousin is getting married on Saturday in Vancouver. I am so excited to see family members who I haven't seen in years! It will be a perfect way to relax after this hectic week :D
3 tests [math, piano, and phonics]
creating a Digital Story to post on YouTube
Writing a Behavior Intervention Plan
Teaching a recorded lesson in my Educational Psychology class
2 small papers due in my Friday class
Reading for 4 classes
whew.... I've got a lot to do to keep up with all my classes!
But it will all be worth it because on Friday I am flying out to Portland! My cousin is getting married on Saturday in Vancouver. I am so excited to see family members who I haven't seen in years! It will be a perfect way to relax after this hectic week :D
Friday, January 28, 2011
20 Months ago
Yesterday marked 20 months since Scott entered the MTC. WOW! He has 4 months left, that is it. Just FOUR. I can very easily remember when he had only been gone for 4 months and that was so exciting to me. I had just started my Sophomore year at BYU then, but now I'm nearly done with my Junior year. Time is a funny thing that flies and stops and disappears on you.
I am so proud of Scott and the amazing work he is doing in Texas! Just this week he was transferred to Canyon, Texas so he is no longer working in the Mission Office in Lubbock. He is very excited to have the whole day to teach and help people that he comes in contact with. He has a great new companion that he is looking forward to working with and I am so excited for him!
Here is a video that I received from Scott recently. Him and his companions Elder Bradshaw and Elder Cristopherson were on a roadtrip to Roswell, NM to pick up a missionary and they sure had a good time on their way! haha enjoy!!
Oh how I love this boy!! :D He sure is turning into a Texan cowboy don't ya think? ;)
I am so proud of Scott and the amazing work he is doing in Texas! Just this week he was transferred to Canyon, Texas so he is no longer working in the Mission Office in Lubbock. He is very excited to have the whole day to teach and help people that he comes in contact with. He has a great new companion that he is looking forward to working with and I am so excited for him!
Here is a video that I received from Scott recently. Him and his companions Elder Bradshaw and Elder Cristopherson were on a roadtrip to Roswell, NM to pick up a missionary and they sure had a good time on their way! haha enjoy!!
Oh how I love this boy!! :D He sure is turning into a Texan cowboy don't ya think? ;)
PS... this is my 100th post on my blog! :)
Thursday, January 20, 2011
A Rollercoaster Day
Yesterday my new nephew Callen Kenzo Morris was born! He is a BIG boy, 10lbs 12oz and 21 inches long! I am so excited to meet him and to have this new addition to my family! Here is my brother and his newest baby boy:
I can hardly believe that my brother is a father of FOUR children! I am so happy for him and Naomi! :)
After hearing this very exciting news, I heard some other more difficult news.
My sister Jesi is 7 months pregnant with her first child, Kenadie. A few days ago during an ultrasound,the doctors detected fluid on Kenadie's brain and around her heart as well as an inflamed umbilical cord. She had an appointment with a specialist yesterday where Jesi was told that Kenadie most likely has Dandy-Walker Syndrome, which is causing the malformations of her heart and brain. They are going to see another specialist about what will happen with her heart, and it is possible that she could have some sort of mental retardation.
We are all praying for Jesi and baby Kenadie and I would like to please ask for you to add your faith to ours. I know that miracles are possible and that faith is very powerful. Thank you :)
I can hardly believe that my brother is a father of FOUR children! I am so happy for him and Naomi! :)
After hearing this very exciting news, I heard some other more difficult news.
My sister Jesi is 7 months pregnant with her first child, Kenadie. A few days ago during an ultrasound,the doctors detected fluid on Kenadie's brain and around her heart as well as an inflamed umbilical cord. She had an appointment with a specialist yesterday where Jesi was told that Kenadie most likely has Dandy-Walker Syndrome, which is causing the malformations of her heart and brain. They are going to see another specialist about what will happen with her heart, and it is possible that she could have some sort of mental retardation.
We are all praying for Jesi and baby Kenadie and I would like to please ask for you to add your faith to ours. I know that miracles are possible and that faith is very powerful. Thank you :)
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
a year in pictures
I made this collage about a year ago of my life in 2009 and never did anything with it. So now I am going to put it to use along with my updated version of my life in 2010. Its fun for me to look through these and see the progression of my life from the top to the bottom.
2009:
2010:
I'm excited to see what is in store this year and to see its progression through pictures :)
2009:
2010:
I'm excited to see what is in store this year and to see its progression through pictures :)
Friday, January 7, 2011
New Semester
It has been so great to be back in my apartment with my roommates and to get back into school. I am so excited for the year 2011!!! I have so many happy exciting thoughts in my mind for this year. :)
I just finished my first week of the semester and I am SO excited for my classes! This is my first cohort and all my classes are with the other girls [and 1 boy! gasp!] who are all going to be working in the Nebo School District for the next 2 semesters with me. I have some great teachers who are very passionate about what they do and are going to be great supporters for us all.
My schedule is a lot different than what I'm used to. I have morning classes and then breaks that range from 3-5 hours before my afternoon classes start. Its strange to have such a huge gap in the middle of the day, but I'm sure it will come in handy when I have more assignments and work to keep up on. But Fridays I only have a morning class from 8-11 so I'll be done by noon every Friday- yay! :D
I am still pretty nervous for my practicum where I will be working in a school with a mentor teacher for all of March, but we talked a lot about that in my Planning and Management class today and I feel a lot better about it already. This is going to be a busy semester and I am going to learn a lot.
Bring it 2011- I am SO ready for you!
I just finished my first week of the semester and I am SO excited for my classes! This is my first cohort and all my classes are with the other girls [and 1 boy! gasp!] who are all going to be working in the Nebo School District for the next 2 semesters with me. I have some great teachers who are very passionate about what they do and are going to be great supporters for us all.
My schedule is a lot different than what I'm used to. I have morning classes and then breaks that range from 3-5 hours before my afternoon classes start. Its strange to have such a huge gap in the middle of the day, but I'm sure it will come in handy when I have more assignments and work to keep up on. But Fridays I only have a morning class from 8-11 so I'll be done by noon every Friday- yay! :D
I am still pretty nervous for my practicum where I will be working in a school with a mentor teacher for all of March, but we talked a lot about that in my Planning and Management class today and I feel a lot better about it already. This is going to be a busy semester and I am going to learn a lot.
Bring it 2011- I am SO ready for you!
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