Sambodet

Update for the Year

2011-08-07T22:44:00.001-07:00

Probably, right? I guess it's time for me to update the cyber world about my life these days.

Crazy. Changing. It's been good and bad all rolled together. Here's what's gone on for the past six months:

*Finished my first semester back in school (finally!) - and just about to start my second. It's about time I grew up ;)
*My sister-in-law, Mandy, passed away a couple of months ago and I gained such an amazing testimony for our Savior because of her. So blessed for that.
*I was built up, only to be torn down and rebuilt to be stronger
*Had probably the craziest month in my working life. Our manager had twins and we had one teller leave and I had to play boss for a while. So hard, and so glad we have help and it's calmed down!
*Took an adventurous Bahamas Cruise/Orlando vacation with Marne' and KayCee (post of its own coming later)
*Spent a fabulous weekend in St George with my nieces and nephews. I need to go down more often!
*My dad had a motorcycle crash that nearly ripped my heart apart (all is well now...I just don't handle it well..Daddy's girl)
*Made the decision to move back to Bountiful the weekend after our vacation and it took me totally by surprise. The three of us are moving on.
*Found out a little boy is joining our family in December. Can't wait for the little guy.
*I get to live with the sweetest kid in the world again.
*Heartaches
*I've had my front tooth chip three times now (for the love Sammi, stop grinding your teeth at night!)
*Been surprised at myself a LOT this summer with a lot of things changing!

Anyways, lots more and of course, there are stories with each of the bullets. All in all, life is great. It's wonderful and I'm so blessed. I have a lot of things racing through my mind that I want to figure out, but I am so lucky. I've laughed a lot, played a lot, and I've learned a lot. There's not much more I can ask for!

Easy E

2011-02-09T21:22:00.000-08:00

Back in August, my cousin Eric passed away suddenly. I hate to admit, but we weren't as close as I am to some other cousins, but I looked up to him and loved him the same.

Not a day has gone by since his death that I haven't thought about Eric.

Eric and I are only a month apart, so we grew up going through the same things, but ultimately changed paths the older we got. He made a name for himself and lived life fully. He has completely changed my outlook on life. When I went to his funeral, I was stunned at how amazing his funeral was. Seriously, I had never felt a more powerful, wonderful, and beautiful love and admiration for someone than I did during those two hours. I listened to the many kind things people said about him and the wonderful things he did and the life he lived. He chose to be happy and accomplished just about every dream he put his mind to. He was successful, funny, talented, well-rounded, and terrific. I made a conscious decision then and there that I would strive to be as happy and successful as he was. (you can read his obituary/life story HERE)

I want to feel as happy about life and accomplishments as Eric did. I want my happines to radiate and touch others like his did. I don't ever want to take my life for granted. I want to finish school (which I've already started again), I want to see the world (more of it), I want to be educated, charitable, civil, polite, sympathetic, religious, and successful.

On that note, I'm adapting a new theme song. This song was used (among others) for a medley composed for Eric by Kurt Bestor.

Feelin' Groovy

I re-dedicate myself to living life! Here's to you, Easy E, and for the influence you've had on me. Until we meet again!

~S

Christmas

2010-12-26T20:49:00.000-08:00

This Christmas was good. Special, in fact. I don't know what made it more special than other years, or if it just gets more special the older I get. This year, unlike last year, we had everyone there. It was fantastic.

This was my first year out on my own so starting a new tradition for myself was interesting. I made sure to keep my heritage in mind and made sure St. Nick came for my roommates earlier this month. In return, KayCee made sure Santa returned and I got to experience having a stocking for the first time in my life! We just did friend presents this year and nothing more or less but that was fun. I tried making it a point to wait until at least Christmas Eve to open presents (which I did just fine...) but some couldn't wait and opened theirs days ago.

Since Christmas Eve fell on a Friday this year, the Credit Union closed for the weekend, which was a nice change! I enjoyed my Christmas Eve morning by sleeping in and lounging the day away. Then it was time to meet up with my family for our traditional Christmas dinner at the Sizzler. We've been going there for as long as I can remember, and I think I love it more and more each year! It was great having Doug and Casey back this year along with my other siblings and the kiddos. After our delicious dinner, we headed back up to my parents' house for a traditional sing-a-long/story of the birth of Christ - complete with stick puppets for the grandkids. It's so great to have such a wide range of people participate and sing and the true meaning of Christmas was really there.

Time for gifts. Each year we, as siblings, draw names for Secret Santa. This year I got the Burkhards (my sister and her family). We had a $25 limit to spend. I decided to get them a "Family Night" gift complete with a movie, game, and treats. They seemed to like it! Casey, my cute returned-missionary brother drew my name this year. The kid has always been able to make me laugh and he didn't cease this year with my gift. I immediately knew it was going to be good when I saw my family whip out cameras for my reaction. I open my gift and there is a plush, leopard-pring Snuggie. But...nestled inside the Snuggie was a gift certificate. I turn it around and it says, "Gift Certificate for a Date with {guys name}, Love your Baby Brother." I about died. I was laughing uncontrollably and completely embarrassed. I joke to friends daily that "I need a man" and Casey delivered this year. Casey has a good friend a year older than me or so that he is having take me out - the guy even signed it (I'll post a picture a little later..maybe..).

After the sibling gifts, my parents gave theirs to us. This year they each gave us a TomTom GPS along with tickets to see Jeff Foxworthy, Bill Engval, and Larry the Cable Guy this March. I was so excited I had goosebumps. I grew up listening to Jeff Foxworthy with my dad like they were nursery rhymes. I'm a big fan of the Blue Collar Comedy group. The grandkids got little kids' laptops and dolls/trucks from their Nana and Papa and we as kids gave my parents an overnight stay at some fancy place. It was great!

Because my sister and her family have moved to St. George earlier this year, they were able to spend the night at my parents' house as well. Santa caught on that they were up north this year and delivered to the kids and Doug's son, McKay (who also spent the night). Bright and early the whole family was up watching the kids in excitement over their new gifts from Santa. Kids sure make Christmas special. It was so much fun to see how elated they all were all morning. After presents, my sister, my mom, and I made breakfast and we relaxed, played games, dosed, and laughed the early morning away. The Burkhards had to leave around noon to go to Dan's family's house and Chad and Kendra were at the McAlister's that day. My parents, Doug, Casey and I lounged a while longer, watched Jurassic Park, then finally got ready. We headed down to the Gateway and saw "Unstoppable." Definitely a good movie!! By that point, we were all partied out and called it a night. I headed home to enjoy the rest of the evening in peace and quiet (lots of kids = lots and lots and lots of noise!).

I hope your Christmases were just as merry as mine! Here's to the new year coming and goals on improving!

2nd Annual Thankfuls - detailed (and long!)

2010-11-28T21:20:00.000-08:00

I know I'm a few days late on this, but better late than never. I've thought a lot this month about what I'm especially grateful for and even thought about doing a "blessing a day" type of post daily, but let's face it...I'm a horrible blogger. So without futher ado...

*My mother. I can't even begin to explain how much I love her and appreciate her. Since I've moved out, I have grown to love her more than I ever thought possible. It's true that distance makes the heart grow fonder. I miss her daily. I've thought a lot about my life and specifically the struggles I had as a child with fears, depression, etc. I wasn't an easy child, but she was always there. The nights she slept in my bed, or in my parents' bed. The times she'd hold me during my worst times (she still does!). She never once made me feel less than her number one priority. I don't know how she did it. As I got older, she became more than my mom. She became my best friend and the funniest person I've ever known. No one can make me laugh harder than she does. We laugh all the time. We couldn't sit together at church without giggling uncontrollably. She knows me inside and out. I don't get it, but she can 'sense' what is going on without me telling her. Strange, but true. I could go on and on, but it would never fully express my gratitude for her. I thank my Heavenly Father and lucky stars for her specifically.

*My dad. I could have put them together and say I'm grateful for my parents as a whole, and while I am, it doesn't do them justice individually. My dad is my numero uno. Always has. I have been a daddy's girl my whole life. He is my biggest fan. He always seems impressed with me and my life regarless of how I feel about my own self and accomplishments. He worries about me, he cheers for me, and he supports me in all of my decisions. He treats my mom like a queen and my sister and me like princesses. He is my brothers' favorite guy and it's a no wonder. He is a special, special man and I'm just as thankful for him as I am my mom.

*My siblings. I am SO grateful for each of my siblings invididually. I have such a good relationship with each of them, and their spouses. I'm SO grateful for the gospel and adoption for allowing my sister and brother to be part of our family forever. I can't imagine how I'd be without them. And over the last year, events have brought us closer together. I'm grateful we love each other and spend time together. Movies, midnight 7-11 runs, lunch dates, etc. They're terrific. I am so grateful for the kids they have. I think I may love them more than my own siblings! :) Emily, Rachel, Nick, McKay, Eva, Kara, Adam, and the sweet baby we miss and baby to come.

*My job. I've said it before and I'll say it again, but I'm so lucky to work where I do. The values the company stands for and for the people I've worked with and work with today. Right now, in this period of my life, I couldn't ask for a better team than my branch. We are a branch of girls, but we all get along great, we laugh hard and work hard. Each one have been an inspiration to me and help me see the better in myself and encourage me to be better. I'm fortunate that management appreciates me. I try to work hard and earn trust and responsibility. I'm glad for an opportunity to get to know and help at another branch for a bit.

*My roommies. KayCee and Lidia. These two ladies have become more than best friends, they've become sisters. I couldn't have asked for better roommates and we have had a lot of fun. We love and respect each other and we all get along extremely well. I owe them a lot for things they've done for me.

*The gospel. Now that I'm out on my own, I've had to be better at getting myself to church and put myself out there in a *gulp* singles ward. Man, that's hard. I'm glad I'm in the ward I'm in. It's been a lot of fun and the bishopric is terrific. There are two people there who have been the sole reason I have stayed in the ward slowly getting to know people. Dana and Duane. Apart from the going to church aspect, the gospel in itself is the biggest blessing. This year has posed some hard times towards the Church and our leaders. I'm grateful and honored to say that I support them 100%. I have felt of the gospels truths and I'm a better person for it. I need to be better with all activities, but I know the Church is true.

*The opportunity to provide for myself. All things. I'm grateful for the means to pay my bills - and on time - each month. For the ability to buy my own groceries, gas, utilities, car, rent, etc. Especially in this economy, I'm so grateful.

*My experiences. I've experienced quite a bit the last few years that have dramatically changed me. I am such a different person now than I was 5 years ago. Obviously there's a lot I want to do and fix, but ultimately, I'm happy for the places I've been, the adventures I've had and the wicked trials I've conquered.

*Music. I can't live without it. It's the best way for me to feel and express emotions, my life's events, and there's just something about karaoke-ing in the car on a nice commute/drive!

*Technology - specifically my phone and laptop. I am always a second away from chatting with my family whenever I want/need and keeping up on the lives of my friends. Facebook and blogs have been a lot of fun to stay connected to people I haven't seen in years but I still know them daily.

*My car. Ah, it's a wonderful car. I got a new(er) car earlier this year and it has been such a champ.

*Prayer. I need to be better about this, but I love knowing help is just a prayer away.

*My calling. Quite a difference from my last few callings, but I love the opportunity to help and serve regardless of the "magnitude."

*Laughter. I laugh a lot. I live to laugh. I feel it's the way I survive. I laugh at the stupid things I do (I'm so awkward sometimes) and life is always funny.

I could sit all night and list every thing I can think of that I'm grateful for, but I had to express my greatest blessings. I can't go without saying it. I am such a lucky person and I don't realize it enough and I more often than not take it for granted. What a wonderful year it's been and hopes to creating more blessings in the year to come!

So, how've you been?

2010-11-01T19:12:00.000-07:00

It's been too long. I've thought about blogging for over a month now but the longer I put it off, the more things I need to blog about and the more I don't want to spend time blogging. Vicious cycle.

I turned 24 last week.

I am ancient. At least that's how I feel. It is so crazy to think how fast time flies and how much and how little things have changed and gone on in my life. This time last year everything was changing and happening and I could barely keep up. This year has been low-key. With that being said..I have decided to change that in my 24th (technically 25th) year of life. It's more like my New Year's Resolution, I guess. I promise my 24th will be awesome. I don't know how yet, but I've got some ideas and hopes brewing upstairs. We'll see..

As for life otherwise, I'm still figuring out where my feet belong on earth. I've gotten past the frustration part to now where it's funny. I am so not who I thought I was or who I was going to be at my age and I'm good with it. I laugh often. I play often. I think that's pretty good. It makes it easier to decide what fun thing is next.

I have a good job and work with some of the greatest people. I'm extremely grateful I'm where I am. I didn't know why it felt right to transfer when I did, but I now know. I'm impressed I've been able to make it on my own so far. I'm sure my parents didn't think I'd last :) but I have. It's been hard to give up traveling on a whim and shopping, but it's been so much fun living with my roommates. They are my best friends. My sisters. I have a place of my own and I love it. I'm happy. I choose to be happy.

Not much of an update, but I hope to be a bit more proactive and keep things updated more often.

Meet Rob Schneider. Check.

2010-08-15T19:59:00.000-07:00

This past Friday, the opportunity came and with some coaxing and bribing to KayCee to come with me, I crossed this off of my bucket list! I was beyond ecstatic and giddy. I absolutely love this guy. I love his movies and his stupid humor and when I found out he was coming to Utah, I jumped on the chance! I have wanted to meet him since I saw him on "Hot Chick." He is so friendly and as funny in person as he is on the big screen.

Yeah it's pretty much my new favorite shirt.

Time of my life

2010-07-11T12:10:00.000-07:00

The phrase has been on my mind so much lately. It's like it's become my motto. My creed. For the good and the bad. I've pondered what this could mean in all sorts of aspects of my life and I've discovered it means all that it entails.

My young adult life has been the time of my life. This is the time where I can be whoever I want to be. Make my life exactly what I want. I don't know what I want...Last night, I prayed until I fell asleep. Granted, it wasn't while kneeling, but as I lay curled up warm in my bed, I poured out my heart and feelings. I have never felt more open and honest to anyone than I did at that moment with my Heavenly Father. It felt so good. I'm not meaning this post to take a Spiritual turn by all means, but it put me in a reflective, mellow mood today. I prayed for help on where I want my life to be. I thanked Him for the millions of blessings I've been given, but knowingly take advantage of, unfortunately. I've experienced numourous things I never thought would ever happen, overcame trials that seemed impossible, and I've done things I never thought I would, and it has been awesome. The time of my life. But, I feel empty inside. I am not completing something and I cannot figure out what it is. I have gone through every possible option in my mind to fill that void and I can't tell what it is. Will it be filled when I'm married and start a family? Is it just some depression I'm feeling? Is it because I've been complacent for so long? Or am I honestly going through a "quarter-life crisis?"

I need China. Or a China-like experience. I was able to clear my head and figure out what I wanted in life and I felt rejuvenated. I have forgotten what it was I wanted to do. Or I did it and it's time for a new phase and step in my life. I can't keep running away though. I have to be able to figure out how to work things out as an adult!

No worries, I'm not posting this as a Debbie Downer, but more to "think outloud." Believe me, I am making some adjustments in my life right now that I can already tell are significantly helping, but I'm still missin' something. Any of my other young adult (single and not single) friends feeling this way?

For.The.Love.

2010-06-27T21:17:00.000-07:00

My grandma Roma is up in heaven laughing at me. I can feel it. She was once a shoe collector herself and warned me in her dying days that "your feet'll turn out like mine and fall off." She adored heels. I adore heels. But this weekend, I wanted to take my PRECIOUS, new, flirty heels and hit me in the head with them. Hard.

I was beyond stupid this weekend.

You would think I would have learned my lesson already from this experience last year.

No, no. No.

Friday night Lidia and I headed out to Target to do some shopping and browsing. I found a few cute shirts, and left happy. We then hit Ross. Love that store. And I found a darling pair of heels. I just couldn't leave the store without them!

Saturday rolls around and I decide to wear my new shoes and new shirt to an activity Lidia and I had signed up for a couple weeks ago {we tried getting KayCee to go, but she's been sick this weekend}. Our ward was heading to the Manti Miracle Pageant. I hadn't been since I was really young and Lidia hadn't experienced it yet. I didn't think it'd be a big deal to wear heels to the day activity since we'd be sitting to watch the program. I was a bit embarrassed to see I was the only one wearing heels though..

We left around 3 on our buses and headed down south for the long drive. When we finally approached Manti, our buses turned and parked a good block or two away from the area. No biggie, we'd walk. We get off the bus and start walking, but since they were new heels I didn't wanna fall behind and walk slow, so I slipped off my heels. I grew up going barefoot. I prefer it. Asphalt, dirt, grass...doesn't bother me. So I walked on the streets with my group for a minute before realizing the asphalt must've been 410 degrees {afterall, the temp outside was close to 100}. I kept walking. I got to a crosswalk and couldn't handle the burning and smell of burning flesh anymore and finally put my heels back on. I took two steps and could feel my skin sliding against the heel. I knew then, at 5 pm, that my night was shot. We spent a good hour on the grass waiting in line for good seats and I stood barefoot in every ounce of shade I could find to relieve the stinging burn. I dreaded walking across the street let alone anywhere else. Against my avail, we were to have dinner at the Manti Tabernacle. Five blocks away. Lidia and I didn't have lunch so we were starving by then. I knew we'd have to walk, so I begged her to use her iPhone and order pizza. I'd leave a generous tip. Somehow, I agreed to go with her to the dinner {afterall, I didn't want to ruin this experience for her because of my lack o'knowledge}. It hurt worse to have the heels on my feet than to walk barefoot, so I limped and waddled the entire city of Manti barefoot yesterday. Again, on the hot ground. I was shaking and sweating so bad by the time we had reached the tabernacle. Lidia was so kind to let me borrow her shoes for the last block or so while she went barefoot and burned her foot, too. I told her I felt blood might be getting in her shoe and that was the last second I had them on my feet.

Anyways, I, by some miracle, made it back to the temple grounds alive {with the help of some new friends willing to give piggy backs for 4 steps before we fell over laughing hysterically} and had a lot of fun with new friends, dares {I had to pour a whole pouch of blue Fun Dip in my mouth all at once - and inevitably spent the night with a blue/green face}, laughter, and the wonderful Pageant. The highlight was finally talking to and meeting my ward crush for the first time. He is SO cute, but SO out of my league. A girl can day dream though, right? The pageant ended sometime after 11 and we didn't make it back to Sandy until close to 2 a.m. By then my feet had hardened, blistered and road burned so much I walked on the sides of my feet into the house.

Oh, and happier updates/notes: I DID buy a pair of flats that same night too, ironically. And I feel some changes in the air coming soon!

~S

Until I Blog an Update...

2010-06-20T19:15:00.000-07:00

I just thought I'd share this darling picture of my sweet niece.

The girl loves food. Licked her plate clean.

I've been shocked

2010-05-02T22:26:00.001-07:00

I'm embarrassed to admit this, but what the heck. A couple weeks ago, I borrowed the Book of Mormon Reader from a fellow co-worker. It's basically a picture book that explains the Book of Mormon in layman's terms. I desperately needed it. I have never completed the Book of Mormon. I've tried, and I've failed. I just don't understand what happens after Nephi. I thoroughly enjoyed the book and finished it in two sittings. One thing that caught my attention was how much the Lord told the people to repent. I mean, I've always known that I suppose, but I was surprised! I often found myself wondering while I read, "What are they doing? What sin can they not stop committing? I mean, it's like 200 B.C., they don't have pornography, they don't have as many idols, they have rocks and sand and forests...hmmm.."

Well, this weekend I've figured it out.

This past week I got rid of my Satanic car (beside the point...and a whole different blog post) and before I left the dealership I cleaned out my car. I found my most recent journal in the trunk. I was ecstatic. I have been wondering where it has been and I was sad because it had some final memories of my high school days and my days in China. I read it yesterday morning...

Man, I was an angry teenager.

I was floored. I was so angry with God. For reasons I will not post-they are useless now. I never knew how angry I was, and I don't think I knew back then either. The saddest part is I think I've still been holding a grudge against Him. And I. Am. Ashamed. I'm embarrassed, I'm hurt, and I feel so low. I keep thinking of that story of the man close to drowning in the ocean and he has total "faith" that the Lord will save him. Well, a large piece of rift-wood floats by and he doesn't climb aboard it thinking, "The Lord will save me." A boat comes by and the passengers throw out a life saver and he declines saying, "No, no, the Lord will rescue me." Then later a helicopter comes and rolls out a ladder and still the man declines, "No No! The Lord will rescue me!" The guy drowns. This guy was waiting for the Lord to come down and physically lift him out of the ocean, yet He gave the man three options to save his life, despite his ignorance.

It occured to me tonight as I was getting ready for bed that this is what the Lord begs the Nephites and Lamanites to repent for. Doubt of the His blessings and Plan for us. I grew up knowing some stories of the Book of Mormon, particulary the story of Laman and Lemuel and how doubtful they always were. And I kept thinking, "How many times does God have to let them know He is real and his entire Plan? And they still doubt?! Angels appeared, prophetic moments from their own father and brother, and even a physical shock!"

Enter Sammi. I've always had a testimony of my Heavenly Father. I have had some very private moments where I know He is there. Moments only my parents really know about. To the point where they could ask me why I doubt? I've been angry and doubting His plan for me, because it's not going according to MY plan. I had this idea of what my life would be like and it would all be handed to me on a silver platter. Yet the Lord has thrown me life supports to keep me on my way to learn and grow even if I'm not doing it myself. I've been just as ignorant as that man. I guess I've continually thought that if He wanted me to go somewhere, He'd make it happen. I just didn't realize that He would, but I get to decide what to do with my life in the meantime.

Knowing this now, I have so many ideas of what I want to do and who I want to become. I feel like a burden has been lifted and I'm so emotional and humbled. I don't know exactly what I'll do, or where I will go, but I KNOW the Lord will guide me if I finally accept His kind of help. I know I will be happy again. Happier than I've been in years. I can now see the light as to how to become the woman in my patriarchal blessing. The woman the Lord wants me to become.

I love the Lord.

I love His Son.

I love the Gospel.

I love me.

A bit of Mail this weekend

2010-05-01T23:38:00.000-07:00

Dear Daughter,

I remember well the day you left my side, wandered through the veil and ventured forth to fulfill your earthly mission. I had a tear in my eye as I clothed your spirit in a cloak of love and sent you off to school. Be assured that my thoughts are with you now, as always.

I love you with all of my heart. I know your life, the good, the bad, your grief, your disappointments, your unrewarded efforts, your frustrations. But always remember--all that I have is yours if you will only come home again.

Daughter, realize that in you I have placed a bit of heaven. No one was exempt. I love all of my children. You have some blessed gifts, some talent, some little part of me in you. Search for it, develop it, use it, and most importantly, share it with others. If you really love me, then help others find themselves and lead them to me. Show your love by serving others.

Repent of your failings and humble yourself. Make yourself ever teachable and continually strive to improve. I gave you weaknesses to help you be humble. Dont condemn me for that. I did it because I love you. Be full of hope. Don't let discouragement engulf you. I'll come if you need me.

Daughter, cease your idle contentions. Be a peacemaker, for it breaks my heart to see so many of my children fighting. If they could only see what I have hoped, planned and desired for them. My heart breaks as I watch them. But you, faithful daughter, are my hope. It is through you that my work must proceed. You haven't much time and there is so much work to be done. I beg you to get started. Accomplish the mission I gave to you before you left me. I'll help you. I'll never be too busy or too far away to come to you. I'm nearer to you always than you might suspect. I have so much I would like to tell you, but I can't here.

Come to me often in prayer. I love to talk to you, my beloved daughter. Be diligent in my work and my kingdom shall be yours. I'd love to take you in my arms, but I too, must wait patiently: that time will come. Till then I leave you my peace, my blessing, my love, and never forget I am nearby whenever you need me.

I love you and miss you so very much and, oh, how I am looking forward to your return to me.

All my love,

Your Heavenly Father

Musings of this week

2010-04-12T22:40:00.000-07:00

~ Got my wisdom teeth out.
~ Kinda liked-no loved, actually-being completely sedated. Trippy feeling!
~ Flirted with the chaplain of St Mark's hospital. My mom says I'm friendlier "under the influence"
~ Panicked thinking the oxygen I wore was my dead grandmother's..
~ I learned that wisdom teeth swelling isn't so much swelling as two big, hard lumps on your jawline
~ Advil was my best friend and constant companion this week
~ Sushi tastes MUCH better deep fried. *try the Mexican Crunch, SO good*
~ Squid sushi on the other hand, will never be good.
~ Misery loves company. Heartbreaks bring back tender emotions
~ Milkshakes can cure a teeny-tiny bit of heartache!
~ So do long drives around the valley singing along with Cyndi Lauper
~ $2 won free from Karl Malone Toyota bought the most delicious Diet Coke
~ They've made some pretty good movies lately
~ I love Duff on Ace of Cakes. Don't ask why... And Uncle Jesse...
~ Never trust a tie around dress on a windy day. It's a good thing I wore underwear!
~ Been thinking a lot about the past, present, and future.
~ Challenged to be accepted to school by my boss. This month.

Well, that sums of the week in a simple blog post. Happy April Showers.

Love it

2010-04-01T21:50:00.000-07:00

A friend shared this with me last week sometime and I laughed. So. Hard. I absolutely love Asians. Always have. And the fact that I love nail salons is even better. And I love that this lady hit it dead on. Hope nobody is offended.

Enjoy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SsWrY77o77o

Good weekend!

2010-03-21T21:11:00.000-07:00

This weekend was a weekend that finally felt like a good, deserved weekend! Saturday was filled with a lot of fun. I slept in a bit, cleaned my place and got ready for the day. KayCee decidedit was a day for Nielsen's so we headed up to Bountiful. We went seperate since she was bringing her sister and brother and law, and I wanted to visit with my family. We enjoyed a good hour of delicious custard and french fries and good conversation.

Seeing my parents was probably the highlight of the weekend. It was really good to see them and laugh and catch up. My mom is doing awesome in her business endeavors and took me to see her new office space! I'm really excited for her to launch her dream and see how it goes! We then went to see my brother and sister in law and my adorable nieces. They both had just gotten over terrible ear infections, but were so fun to play with and visit. I've said it once, but there is something about those girlies that just makes me so happy. I got my Eva dose!

I headed back down to Sandy to change clothes, then KayCee and I headed downtown to meet some friends for the Jazz game. The game was an instant win, so we spent most of our time laughing, joking and eating half-way frozen churros.

After the game the gang headed to Shelley's for some good ole Rock Band! We had about four more friends join that night and we had a room full of tear-forming and gut-wrenching laughing.

Today was church. We made it through sacrament meeting, but KayCee wasn't feeling well (and she was my ride), so we headed back home for rest. We spent the rest of the afternoon lounging and napping.

All in all, I feel pretty rejuvenated for the next week! (And only like, two more weeks til Lidia moves in!)

I have a problem..

2010-03-15T23:06:00.000-07:00

Everytime I get into a rut, I plan a "what's next" step in my life. You know, your whole life you await those big monumental moments and checkpoints and then look forward to the next phase of life. Turning 12 to finally leave Primary and become a Young Woman. Turning 16 to date and drive. Turning 18 to rebel and graduate. Then the guaranteed checkpoints stop. What next? Life throws curve balls where you can choose your checkpoints. College. Missions. Marriage. Well, what happens if you don't have any of those for some reason or another? So, I picked another one. A right step. I moved out. Well, checkpoint accomplished. Now what?

I told KayCee my dilema today and she simply stated, "Um Sam. Enjoy it." It dawned on me then that I've never actually enjoyed my phase of life, but I worry about achieving the next. When that has happened in the past, and I can't get to my next phase soon enough, I create my own. Flee the country on some wild adventure. Pick up extreme sports to get that adrenaline rushing.

Last night I found myself seriously researching skydiving.

Don't get me wrong, skydiving is a sport I most definitely want to try. And to be honest, I more than likely will in the near future. But why can't I find college to be a "heart-pumping" phase, too? Why am I looking to postpone it (even if I've been unaware of this!)? I crave a college education! But I'm lacking the motivation to finally get started. Once I get pumped, I realize it'll take me three years to get a degree and I'm depressed. Do I really want to be working on my degree still at 26? Yes!

Somebody help me get my tush in gear! And remind me to enjoy my phase of life I'm in. Until then, I'm mentally preparing myself for a 12,500 ft. freefall going 120 mph!

PS Pictures of the place are coming soon, I promise!

I'll Miss..

2010-02-26T21:49:00.000-08:00

Tonight I'm packing. Well, sorta. Attempting would be the better word. But I can't help but keep thinking I will really only have a few more nights in my home. I can't believe I'm actually moving out. It's all surreal. When I moved to China for a semester, it didn't really affect me much since I knew I'd be coming back when I was done there. Now that this is more permanent, it's hard to express the feeling. I realize I'm a late bloomer for leaving home and that kids these days do it at 18 for college. But living at home has given me a relationship with my parents and siblings that many may not have. I went through those especially hard times figuring out myself with my parents and brothers and sister(s) by my side rather than solely relying on roommates.

I'll miss my parents. I can't even explain how much I will miss the friendship and the support I have from them. I will miss having them have my back 24/7. I'll miss laughing with them late at night or Sunday afternoons. I'll miss my mom's cooking. My dad's popcorn. I'll miss my mom's alzheimer moments in Church. I'll miss talking to her everyday and her hugs. I'll miss my late night runs with my dad. I'll miss them whipping me into gear to be a better person. I have truly been blessed with the most amazing people as parents. I love them more than anyone could understand and because of them, I have a testimony of eternal families.

I'll miss living so close to Eva and Kara. I'll miss coming home from work when Nana and Papa are babysitting and I hear a little voice scream, "Ah Sammi!" I'll miss their tight squeezes when I need them and the kisses on the cheek. I'll miss the easy opportunity to hang out with Chad and Kendra when we want to see a movie or chill at home.

I'll miss my sweet McKay. A few unfortunate circumstances led me to have the most fortunate opportunity to have that little boy in my life daily where he became closer to us than "nephew." I'll miss him wanting me to cuddle him before I tucked him in. I'll miss him eating with us and laughing. I'll miss watching him study a word search and tell me, "Three F's!" or hearing him learn with the educational cartoons, "B-B-B-Boy." I'll miss Mandy. I'll miss Doug.

I'll miss the "me-time" I get daily with the long commute. Believe it or not, I'll miss the construction! I'll miss not watching it change daily. I'll miss Bountiful and the fond memories I have there. I'll miss Nielsen's not being so close! I'll miss my home ward almost as much as I'll miss my parents!

I look forward to growing and becoming more independent. I look forward to finally learning how to cook other than soup and macaroni and cheese. I look forward to a quick commute! I look forward to "my own place" and having great friends there. I look forward to a new ward and new friends. I look forward to Sandy and making fabulous memories there!

There. I feel better. Now to packing........

I wanna grow old with you

2010-02-19T23:28:00.000-08:00

I love this movie and I stumbled upon it this weekend. Someday I hope the man of my dreams will think this is fitting for me:

I Wanna Grow Old With You

Sammi: 101

2010-02-15T20:18:00.000-08:00

I wish with all my heart I had long, thick hair down to my bottom
If I could get away without any makeup, I'd never wear it
I've never had a visible six-pack, oh but some day I will!
I am an adrenaline junkie!!! But rollercoasters scare me..
Cello music is one of the most beautiful sounds
I love classical piano pieces, it's therapeutic
A man who isn't afraid to get a little emotional in a testimony is the most attractive thing ever.
I secretly hope "plump" is the perfect body in the next life
Popcorn is my most favorite food in the world.
I would like to someday complete (not just run, but complete) a marathon
I think my dream job would be a private investigator
I am the ultimate people watcher
I HATE HATE HATE tension
...but I can duke it out if I needto...
I'm classified as a "co-dependent" but I love to feel and act independent
Cuddling is the BEST feeling in the world
I am super annoyed with stupid license plates (i.e. PRINCSS, AGENWEL...) {no offense if anybody has these license plates, please}
Working at a financial institution can be the most fascinating, difficult job at times
I want the hobbies of oil painting, glass blowing, and pottery
My dream home would be a 21st century "Swiss Family Robinson" treehouse
I want to re-learn Chinese and learn Spanish, French, and German
If I could afford as much schooling as I'd like, I'd get multiple degrees: Law, costmetology, Business/Finance, psychiatry
I would love to be in a popular movie or sitcom once. Just for a little while
I wish I was brave enough for singing lessons
Biggest Loser and Bachelor/Bachelorette are guilty pleasures...
I LOVE to travel. Biggest passion.
My dream vacation would be a full-on European tour
My dream adventure vacation would be an African Safari (so expensive!!!)
I love my nieces and nephews SO much it's hard to imagine a deeper love
I could spend hours watching gymnastics, ice skating, diving competitions, and dancing.
Country music is the best
I am 100% completely addicted to FRIENDS
I am extremely shy when I'm intimidated
I'm silent when I'm upset or hurt
I don't like exercising, but I love the feeling of sore muscles.
I love Spider solitaire and can play for hours
I'm kinda afraid of cruises, but I'll try one someday
Park City is my favorite city in the world
I'm happiest when I'm laughing and my life is fulfilling
I love looking at people's photography
I enjoy hypnotherapy
I don't like juice.
I would love to someday adopt an orphan from China
I love to read
I REALLY want to drive a Monster Truck someday
I want a Shar Pei dog someday (aka Wrinkle Dogs)
Someday I'll go on a date with my dream boy!
I love hidden meanings
I always wear a ring from a country I've visited on my right hand
On my left hand I wear a ring with my motto: "Laugh Often"
Jellyfish absolutely terrify me
My mom has all-knowing power when it comes to me
I LOVE breakfast foods: cereal, hot cereal, crepes, waffles, pancakes, you name it
I love museums and historical sites
I'm convinced the most beautiful flower on earth is the one I witnessed bloom in Guatemala: Gentleman of the Night (haha)
The way to love your family more than you can imagine is through a terrible trial then honest forgiveness
I LOVE musicals and plays, especially Broadways (Wicked is my favorite!!)
I am so ticklish on my left side of my neck up by my hairline, it's ridiculous to even get a haircut
I sometimes shower with hotter water than hot-tubs
Celebrity gossip magazines are another guilty pleasure
Diet Coke. Enough said...
If a public tour of Space becomes possible without extensive training, I'd be one of the firsts to sign up!
I wish I could sing like Regina Spektor
Sandra Bullock is my all-time favorite actress
NieNie is my inspiration. I well up when I read her blog. Love her.
I love to daydream
I constantly compare myself to others
I have a LOT of determination, but sometimes lack motivation
I would love to work and live in NYC
It would be a dream to be a member of the Mormon Tabernacle Choir
I really like to paint. Just paint. A wall, ceiling, house, whatever.
Michael Jackson, Josh Turner, Shania Twain are my favorite musical artists
In the next few years, I want to become an avid skiier and snowboarder
I have two left feet unfortunately
No matter how hot it gets, I always have to have a blanket covering me to sleep
I wish I had a southern accent
I sucked my thumb until I was 8
The girl I envied and looked up to the most in High School, is the girl I still look up to
I will never fully get rid of the travel bug
I feel the Spirit most through music
I would love to learn how to play the organ, guitar, harp, and violin
Whenever I go somewhere I always have to make sure I have my phone and work keys (I'm paranoid I'll lose them!)
I'm a sticky note queen at work. It's a good thing I don't have them at home
Hand-me-down treasures make me SO happy
I love Chinese food, yet the 2 authentic Chinese foods I miss most is the yogurt (I froze mine) and the Unknown-meat-in-a-biscuit-and-spicy-bbq-like sandwich. Yum-my
My "happy" place is anywhere with a hammock (Cancun or Posada de Santiago will do!)
When I get past the point of "tired" I say things that don't make sense. It's embarrassing
I am a member of the Lambda Delta Sigma sorority
I love snakes and chameleons, but HATE spiders and bugs in general.
I hate to see old people alone.
I am fascinated with WWII, Titanic, and Chinese history (Geeky, I know)
I'm a whiz at Google!
I love snuggling in my sleeping back, in a tent, up in the mountains, during a bad thunderstorm. Everytime I go camping, this happens.
I don't like pig meat. Occasionaly I'll have a few pieces of a pork chop, bacon or sausage, but rarely and absolutely NO ham.
I love tropical fruit, but not so much with apples and bananas
I'm addicted to KSL classifieds
I've always been a true Team Jacob fan - long before the movies. Just sayin'
Channing Tatum is my celebrity soul-mate
I have had a Bucket List for years and it continually grows
I have a shoe and purse fetish
I hate the unknown

I'm a big kid now!

2010-02-11T21:49:00.000-08:00

It's official! As of tonight at 7:10 pm, I now have a new place of residence. I signed the contract and I begin my next big adventure with two of my best friends in just a few short weeks! We will be moving down south closer to our work locations. I'm really excited and definitely nervous! But, our landlord is the brother of a terrific friend and the condo is beautiful. I will miss my parents, and particularly little McKay, but I am ready to begin this new life with a new ward, new friends, and new responsibilities!

Pure Happiness

2010-02-08T20:53:00.000-08:00

Thanks for the pics, Mom

2010, New Year, New Decade ~ Bring it!

2010-01-03T20:53:00.000-08:00

I am happy to be closing my chapter in 2009 and the past decade. I'm excited for a new opportunity and a new decade to look forward to!

This evening I opened up a Time Capsule my sweet Young Women leaders made for us when I was a Beehive in 1999. They included pictures, some letters from our parents, our leaders, and our favorite things from back then. In there was this list:

What I hope to accomplish by 2010

1. Graduate from High School w/scholarship for BYU {hahaha..ahem}
2. Go on a mission (if not married)
3. Get all of my Y.W. Medallions
4. Get married
5. Have kids
6. Have reunion with my friends
7. Meet Brad Robbins and get a date with him {this was my Beehive leader's nephew, ha!}
8. Go to Senior Prom
9. Go to Germany, France, Hawaii & Florida
10. Meet someone famous
11. Asked out a lot!
12. Go to college (BYU or U of U)
13. Make a million more friends
14. Become rich
15. Get a nice, nice car - VW Beetle Red {oh how I want to kick 12 year old Sammi..}

There you have it. From the very hand of Sam back in 1999. Obviously most of these things have not been accomplished, but I have done a bit in the past ten years I'm rather proud of...

Graduated from high school
Graduated from Seminary
I did earn my Young Womanhood Recognition/Medallion
I served as class president in every YW class
I did make "millions" of more friends. Some of the best I may say!
Learned to work at an early age
Quit lessons after 8 years of piano ~ still love to play, but not often enough.
Bought a VW. Enough said.
Taught English in China
Participated in Extreme Homemakeover for some valuable neighbors
Served the entire American Idol cast from Season 2 (Clay Aiken, Rubben Studdard..)
Served as a girls camp assistant director for 3 years.
Served as the Stake Primary Secretary
Spoke in Stake Conference
Became an aunt for the first time
Robbed at gunpoint
Witnessed the first black man to become president
Experienced 9-11 with the world
Survived Swine Flu
Vacationed in Hawaii, Guatemala, Cancun, etc
Received my Patriarchal blessing
Went to President Hinckley's viewing
Met President Thomas S Monson
Had my first kiss
First dates
Bought two cars
Gained a brother in law and two sisters in law
Been in love
My sweet nieces and nephews; Emily, Rachel, Nick, Adam, Eva, Kara, McKay and one on the way; changed my life
3 brothers faithfully serve missions
Fell in love with extreme sports..parasailing, zip-lining, skydiving (only indoor so far, outdoor is next!)

...Many many more. I am so happy and blessed for the life I have. Truly. The past decade has been good to me. I hope the next decade will bring my next goals! (Some still the same!)

Get married
Have kids
Finish school (doesn't matter the school this time!)
Live within my means
Be happy

Happy New Year everyone ~

Cancun

2010-01-02T18:58:00.000-08:00

Cancun was probably one of the biggest highlights of 2009. I totally and completely fell in love with Cancun. I loved the food, the people, the activities, you name it. I highly recommend going there at least once in your life!

http://www.scrapblog.com/viewer/viewer.aspx?sbid=2435865

Thankfuls

2009-11-26T17:51:00.000-08:00

(This Thanksgiving was just me, my mom and dad. Cute huh?!)

Tonight as I was helping my mom with dishes, I was recounting to her some memories of my China days. Four years ago while living there, I had the rare opportunity to have a Thanksgiving there with some new friends and my cousin Bryce. Bryce and I took a sān lún chē (Chinese pedicab/rickshaw) to Krissie's apartment at her school where she had kindly prepared a Thanksgiving dinner. We had a "make-shift" glazed ham (Turkey wasn't an option there with the Bird Flu in those days), huge shrimp, green mashed potatoes and stuffing. It was delightful. Krissie had invited one of her students and a new friend to join in a tradition all Chinese were curious about. I watched as this student attempted to use a fork for the first time. I watched as her eyes lit up in the amounts of food that were on the table. It was clearly more than she'd ever had before. And she seemed to thoroughly enjoy herself and express her gratitude and blessings with us. That evening as I got back to my apartment I looked around at what I had. I lived in the Physics Preparation Room 1 where I had a type of pig trough as a sink. The "faucet" was a hose that only gave ice cold water certain hours of the day. When I did dishes, I then quickly had to take the hose and attach it to my teeny-tiny washing machine for one load of laundry before the water went out. I didn't have a toilet in my apartment, in fact, it was a hole in the ground outside of my apartment in the "public bathroom" section of the school grounds. I had a little electric stove and a tiny refridgerator PACKED with eggs. The apartment was freezing, had flies, millions of them, crickets, spiders and bugs. Yet I sat there on my bed and was overcome with blessings, and I thought back on a year before that, my senior year, when I was in Brother Hadley's seminary class....

Before that year's Thanksgiving, he did a lesson on gratitude and blessings and had us write on a piece of paper all of our blessings we were grateful for and he gave us ten minutes or so. Of course the usuals appeared on everyone's list: Family, friends, food, water, the Gospel and a home. Some student's had more on their lists, but for the most part that was it. Brother Hadley asked us to share some of them and after we were done he stared at us for a long moment with an almost hurt expression on his face. Then he said these words that forever changed my outlook on things:

"That's it?"

He went on to say, "Of all of the things in the world, that is all you're thankful for?" He asked us why we weren't thankful for modern restrooms. Or a soft bed with a good mattress. The ability to turn on a faucet in our home and have drinking water there. Airplanes to visit around the world. Modern technology to save lives. Hospitals. Doctors. Cars. The education system. He even got down to the little things of even staples, paper clips and things we often look past that other countries consider a luxury. He had us write a new list after that. It was amazing to see the pages and pages of blessings we had after that.

I thought of this lesson as I sat in my cold classroom apartment in China. I had visited some actual homes of my students while I was there and they lived in literal holes in the wall with dirt floors. I had tile at least. They kept food outside buried to keep things cold. I had the fridge. They couldn't afford eggs. I had them stuffed in my fridge because the Chinese wanted to gift us every week. They didn't even have holes outside for restrooms in a room. I had one twenty feet away from my apartment. They cooked over fires. I had the stove. They eat so little, because they have so little. I had just come from a Thanksgiving dinner. I was SO blessed.

So, tonight, as I am here, lucky to be living in the United States, I will list some luxuries and blessings I have. Because I need to recognize the millions and millions of things I have:

A home. I live in a mansion compared to what the rest of the world lives in.

Having been born in the USA, in Utah, into the Gospel, to parents who still love each other and an eternal family.

My ward.

My job.

The ability I have to make a living for myself.

A car (seriously, a HUGE luxury - even if it is my Satan car :) )

Having temples everywhere

A church in walking distance, instead of a three hour train ride, and and hour taxi to my one hour sacrament meeting in China.

A Western toilet (hey, you can only squat for so long :) )

Carpet. Seriously, I had NO idea how much this was a blessing, until I missed the soft feel on my feet!

Good, um, toiletries. They don't have the same stuff as we do!

The ability to afford once in a lifetime experiences of traveling to different countries, when those I've met around the world think it's a luxury to go to the next city or province.

Even though I am not in school, we have excellent schools where people work their entire lives to get to and a very select few actually get here.

Computers

Internet

Freedom

A piano

iPods

Freeways (no toll-booths are a HUGE HUGE blessing, I promise!)

Being SO close to the headquarters of the Church

The extremely rare opportunity to meet our Prophet.

Cellphones

Heaters and A/C's

And so many more. I could spend hours listing blessings. This year, especially recently, I've found my biggest blessing. The Atonement. I'm so grateful to a loving Savior who atoned for everyone's sins. And to help us forgive and love. I'm grateful it can heal me of a broken heart and even a damaged testimony. What a beautiful thing.

Happy Thanksgiving to all ~

I Will Try To...

2009-11-13T22:11:00.000-08:00

.... Fix You ....

Kendra

2009-11-10T22:47:00.001-08:00

Random post, but...The other night at dinner, Kendra and I were talking about cheesy love songs and the ultimate love song that our family knows well and {I'll admit it...we, well I, LOVE} is "Masterpiece" by Atlantic Starr. I was about floored when she hadn't even heard of the song! I have taken the liberty to add it to my Playlist Below {along with my parents' song "Nothings Gonna Change"} and I now dedicate it to my dear sister in law.

PS Kendra, to ensure you love it as much as your hopeless romantic sister in law does, pretend Chad dedicated it to you. In the '80s.

Dear 2009...

2009-11-05T19:15:00.000-08:00

I just thought you should know, I am TOTALLY ready for you to be gone. I guess I could end at that, but no, no, I will explain why I am ready for you to disappear:

Breakups - Yeah it was due to come, but WHY did it have to hurt so so bad? And WHY did it have to linger for months? Plus it was a FANTASTIC way to start out 2009. Just sayin..

Parasites, Travelers Diarrhea, whatever you wanna call it. I will not go into detail about that one!

"Satan" broke down. (aka my car)

Taxes. This year my electronic filing didn't go through, so I had to pay a penalty (Ok, not your fault, but why in this year?)

IRS Tax Audit - I am young! Why so early?! And why did I have to pay for that???

"Satan" broke down. AGAIN.

Swine Flu. Whether I've had it or not it still sucks.

Robbed at gun point. Not just me, but my entire branch had their lives threatened!

Passing kidney stones. Worst. Pain. In. My. Life.

The passing of Grandma (blessing in disguise, but still hurts)

"Satan" breaking down for the third time now costing over $2K to fix.

Siblings in trials.

Now, 2009, you have brought some great things this year and I'd be too negative and completely ungrateful if I didn't recognize them:

A beautiful niece born earlier this year who just lights up everyone.

A handsome nephew who couldn't have been born at a more perfect time. What a beautiful way to end a horrible day (the day of the robbery..) and he just completes my sister's little family.

My wonderful brother faithfully serving the Lord continually and loving every moment of it.

A trip of a lifetime to Guatemala. Granted, this resulted in illnesses, earthquakes, slight fears; however, it brought serenity, peace, love, strength, friendship, fireflies, flowers, adventure, laughter and fun to this year. I reflect on a particular moment there every day.

My family. I am SO BLESSED to have them every year and to be sealed for eternity, but this year, in it's trials, have brought me SO close to them. My mother is my best friend. She makes me laugh and I trust her with all my heart. My father is my biggest fan and greatest supporter. My siblings. I have so much fun with them. They are my favorite people to hang out with and I'm excited for Casey to return to the fun next year!

Finding out another beautiful baby will be coming to our big family!!!!

My job. Despite this economy, I have been very fortunate to work where I do and still have a job.

The gospel. I haven't been the best at prayer or scripture study or even my callings, but how I love the Lord and this gospel. It has been such a strength.

And now, 2009, I hope to "book-end" this year with a great bang...... Please let it be fantastic!!.....

CANCUN ~ Coming December 6....

(Picture Courtesy of Google)

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-30T16:51:00.000-07:00

September has come and gone...

2009-10-12T09:28:00.000-07:00

...and October started with a bang. Not a good bang, but a bang.

October 2, my beloved Grandma Roma passed away (to me, it was rather unexpected - I thought she'd live longer than me) and she's in such a more beautiful place. I miss her more than she could know. Her funeral was beautiful and I'm so proud to be her granddaughter. I had the honor to give her life sketch/eulogy with my sister, Debbra, and I am in awe at her life she had. She was so funny, so determined, so mischevious, giving, and willing. I love her so much.

Earlier that week, I started my new position at the Jordan River Branch. It was a big adjustment, but it's been good. I enjoy the people I work with and the atmosphere of the branch. I just hope I can continue working hard to meet the expectations given to me!

Other news, the son of a gun who robbed us at Murray was caught. I will forever thank whoever the guy is who tipped the cops. Turns out, the same robber robbed a different Credit Union three weeks later and when those pictures came out, I KNEW it was the same guy. I wish he'd understand the stress and emotions he put us all through.

My wonderful baby brother has been out for over a year and is fully enjoying his mission experience. He has been so busy going back and forth between Germany and Austria and loving every minute of it. He's such a fantastic young man and a great missionary. I'm very grateful for him and the blessing he is to our family.

Rho (the sorority) has become a fun thing in my life. After a few awkward weeks, I finally feel like these girls have really become some great friends. We've had some fun activities, fun group dates with some terrific guys and lots of laughs. I'm happy about the decision KayCee and I had in joining and giving it a shot. I recommend it to anyone out there single and adventurous!

I have a feeling my 2009 will be turning around for a GREAT hit for 2010. I have some exciting plans coming up (no I'm not getting married, or pregnant) and I hope to be accomplishing them before the new year comes. We'll see!

~S

Dear Sammi,

2009-09-13T16:55:00.001-07:00

Today as you were sleeping and resting, I internally watched you. I understand you're not feeling well and that you've had a rough 2009 - particularly the last few weeks, but there are a few things I should remind you of:

First of all, the Lord loves you. You've never doubted that, but it's never a better time to remind you. Remember D&C 84:88.

Second, you have GOT to stop comparing yourself to others. More than likely somebody compares your life to their own. Besides, if we compared apples to apples, you'd probably get some terrible trials you wouldn't want. Leave it be.

Third, you're beautiful. Stop telling yourself otherwise. Yeah you're not who you were in high school, but really, who is? I personally think you've become more beautiful because you've learned so much that the only place to put everything you've learned is in your tummy, bum, face, etc. It's not worth what you've learned and become just to become something else physically.

Fourth, with that said, I'm not disregarding health. You can be healthy. You should try to be healthier - just a thought.

Fifth, remember your personal mottos: Live, Laugh, Love; Laugh Often; and "Life is to be Enjoyed - not endured." Right now, you're only enduring it. Gotta admit, Sam, through 2009's trials, you've had some awesome things happen and some interesting memories, right? Keep living your dreams. Just because you want some dreams now, doesn't mean they'll come now. Sometimes you have to have a different dream come true for the other dreams to follow.

Sixth, count your blessings. Over and over and over. I know you'll never forget what you saw and experienced in both China and Guatemala, so before you feel harsh about life, put your mind there for a minute. That'll humble you. You've got a great life, and you're taking it for granted.

And last but definitely not least, love yourself. For heaven's sake, it shouldn't be too hard. I love you. The Lord loves you. Your family and friends love you. Continue serving, loving others, setting and accomplishing goals and dreams. Make every day, week, month and year count so when you reflect back, you can say, "Dang that was fun." Once you get there, then the rest will come. You know the only way to experience joy is to experience hardship. Put it this way, with the things of 2009, you've got some joy coming!

Remember who you are..

Love,

ME

Tie Mega Tampon

2009-09-10T22:12:00.000-07:00

With all of the hustle and bustle of this past week (including an armed robbery and passing of kidney stones), there has been one slight highlight: I have joined a Sorority.

Yes it's true. I never thought in a million years that I, of all people, would join a sorority. But alas, I have - The Lambda Delta Sigma Chapter Rho. I figured my life hasn't gone in any direction I ever thought it would, why not make it fun so my friend KayCee and I decided to do it. Fortunately, this is an LDS Sorority so it's not as creepy or wild. We've still been in the Pledge and "Rushing" stage, but so far we've really enjoyed it! It has definitely pulled us WAY out of our comfort zone and we're still not quite there, but we've met some great, new girl friends, some fabulous Frat boys and had some fun. I'm excited to see how this will pan out!!

~S

"Today's test is tomorrow's testimony"

2009-09-05T10:06:00.000-07:00

Today as I sit at work and ponder upon the last few days' events, I can't help but post this post. This past Tuesday (September 2, 2009) brought a day of emotions and fear to me due to a terrifying experience I cannot or willnot openly discuss (you can read it on http://www.ksl.com/?nid=148&sid=7780567), however in times like this, many blessings come to pass and I have so much gratitude I need to express:

I can't imagine experiencing what I did with anybody else but my terrific friends and co-workers.

I'm glad the entire security video is not posted for the public

I'm so grateful I work for the institution that I do where we share religious beliefs

I'm grateful each one of us were in the right places at the right time

I'm grateful for our safety

I'm grateful it wasn't worse

Most of all I'm grateful and humbled at the members we have.

I wonder about the people who wake up in the morning and think to themselves, "Wow, my credit union was robbed yesterday. I should take them a treat." or "I know my teller loves Diet Coke, so I'll bring her one and a fresh lime because she sure needs one." or "It's three days since the robbery, but these two tellers are working so I'll swing back around and give them Sausage McMuffins for breakfast through the drive-through." It just amazes me that they take the time out of their hectic schedules and care for people they hardly know when their own families may be going through more than their tellers are. The robbery opened my eyes to the love of God and the wonderful people who have the desire, not just need, but desire to help others. I will strive to be more like them in every way, and I thank my Heavenly Father to be blessed and influenced by such wonderful people.

Wake me up when September ends..

2009-09-01T16:03:00.000-07:00

Yes, this month will be a crazy one. As you may notice, I have accepted a new job promotion that will require me to relocate to a new Branch. I am honestly petrified.

I've been at my Murray for so long that'll it'll be hard to leave, BUT this leaves good

opportunities for me, so I've gotta advance forward, right?

No worries on the teeth thing, it's not like I'm missing any or anything crazy like that. I'm just one of those who's willing to let them sedate me and have at it at my teeth. Kill 80 birds with one stone. That has got to be finished. ASAP.

I need a home. Well, I have one, but I need a new one. With my new job, the commute will be a bust so I'm looking for a place to live down south. Any tips and hints would be greatly appreciated!

With all that said, I am B.R.O.K.E. for a while! Pray it all works out!

Peace and love to all~

What $658.19 will buy you

2009-08-30T18:17:00.000-07:00

It's no secret how I feel about my car. The Little Bugger (Bugger not Booger...) and I have been going on for almost 3 years now and it never stops giving me grief. It's a hate relationship, really. In fact, I like to compare my situation of my car with a series of bad blind dates. You know, they make for good stories. Laughs. A topic that never looses its humor. The Little Bugger has really shown it's true colors - black. I've lost two front lights (like the socket and all on the freeway..), transmission, oil leaks, axle rods and a bunch of other blah blah blahs I don't understand. This week was no different.

I knew my registration was coming up the end of October, and knowing my history with the Little Bugger, I decided to get a jump start on things so I'm not procrastinating and spending every last penny I have this fall. I took it up to good ole' Cutrubus (still FANTASTIC) fully aware of work to be done on it. I dropped it off Thursday night and I knew it was bad when I was the first call they made the next morning. My mechanic said, "{Long Sigh}...It's pretty bad Samantha, I'm not going to lie." Crap. He proceeded to explain what was wrong in a language harder to learn than Mandarin Chinese and I just put my trust in him that he'd fix whatever the heck was wrong. Then he said something clear in every language, "That'll come to approximately $1346.00." WHAT?! Are you...are you KIDDING me? Little Bugger had done it again. For the sake of my wallet (not...haha, purse), I worked out a plan to where I fix half the problems now and I'd take it back in next month for the rest. This time I settled on fixing my oil gasket engine leak (whatever) and my left front signal light (Hallelujah!).

Saturday morning I went with my mom to pick up my car. I went in, paid for the work done, a whopping $658.19 and met my loyal and handy mechanic, Troy. He was gracious, sympathetic and helpful as he handed over the key to my car. I walked outside, opened the door, stuck the key in and ignited the engine.....I waited. I listened. No grinding, no airplane engine noises...in fact...Is it purring??? It was PURRING. Words cannot describe this feeling. It was like meeting 'The One' after the bad blind dates. I was not embarressed to start my car, I was not embarrassed to accelerate the airplane noises. I about shut my engine off, marched right back into the shop and kissed that Troy man. I was SO impressed with how my car ran on the way back to Bountiful. I kept thinking, "Is this how it feels when people love their car?!"

I know I have much more extensive work to be done, and I've had my thousands of dollars of work done, but whatever this particular problem was, was it. I have a new found respect for my little car...

{Please pray I didn't just jinx myself with this positive car post..}

True Love

2009-08-20T08:28:00.000-07:00

The other night I caught this tender moment... My dad was painting my mom's toenails.

Confession- I'm a Tween

2009-08-11T14:19:00.000-07:00

I had an interesting weekend.... Seriously. I haven't had one quite like it! I spent the weekend with KayCee and her cousin (a new friend!) Mallory. We decided to all head over to the Salt Lake County Fair to play that evening. We only went on one ride because Mallory isn't a huge fan of rides and KayCee wasn't a fan of the Scrambler. After, we headed to have some fine fair food (sweet corn, baked potatoes, funnel cake...Yum)! We'd heard about a show the fair was putting on with a hypnotist so we headed that way. Mallory and I were lucky contestants. KayCee was kind enough to take pictures and film our stupid scenes while we look like fools. It was the most interesting experience I've had in a long time. Towards the end of the show, the hypnotist made some interesting points. In addition to the fun, crazy hypnotism, he also teaches hypnotherapy - something I'm so fascinated in. Now, I'm not saying the ridiculous hypnotism stuff works, but I do believe in the power of the mind. I believe people can control their own feelings, thoughts, etc. It's a state of mind. Well, he had us think of something we REALLY wanted and to picture it. I did. Boy did it open a can of worms!!

I spent the rest of the weekend re-evaluating my life and what I feel and what I can do to make myself happy and succeed. I'm still going through a rough patch, and without too many details, it seems like my heart keeps crushing further and further each day. I asked my dad for a father's blessing and he said some powerful things that have enlightened me. I thought I'd been uplifted as much as I could this weekend.

Well. Then it occured. I heard a song at work and I'm ashamed to admit it because I am Not a fan of her, but it has become my theme song...

The Climb - Miley Cyrus

I can almost see it
That dream I am dreaming
But there's a voice inside my head saying"You'll never reach it"
Every step I'm taking
Every move I make feelsLost with no direction
My faith is shaking
But I gotta keep trying
Gotta keep my head held high
There's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be a uphill battle
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose
Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb

The struggles I'm facing
The chances I'm taking
Sometimes might knock me down
But no, I'm not breakingI may not know it
But these are the moments that
I'm gonna remember most, yeah
Just gotta keep going
And I, I got to be strong
Just keep pushing on'
Cause there's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be a uphill battle
Sometimes I'm gonna have to lose
Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb, yeah!
There's always gonna be another mountain
I'm always gonna wanna make it move
Always gonna be an uphill battle
Somebody's gonna have to lose
Ain't about how fast I get there
Ain't about what's waiting on the other side
It's the climb, yeah!

Keep on moving, keep climbing
Keep the faith, baby
It's all about, it's all about the climb
Keep the faith, keep your faith

There you go, laugh and make fun of me all you want.

These Are a Few of my Favorite Things..

2009-08-05T13:13:00.000-07:00

With life still down, I have been able to recognize the little things in life that make me so darn happy! I'm grateful for little gifts and blessings like these to make my day brighter and a bring a smile to my face!

Planning my next wild vacation with friends * My nieces and nephews..Eva Mae (I see Eva & Kara the most {they live close} and she is the funny, sassy, cute girl who is always there just when I need her 'loves' the most), Emily (her sweet, mature, caring nature that always holds that one special place in my heart as my first niece), Rachel (with her spunk and active, smart nature), Nick (his contagious laugh, mellow 'Everything is alright' attitude), McKay (biggest heart, sweetest child who is just a miracle), and Kara (how her precious little spirit lights up everyone) * My friendship with my parents * Peanut-butter chocolate chip cookies from Mrs Fields (a kind co-worker brought me some when I was sick) * Blog-stalking * KSL Classifieds! * A good Diet Coke * Saving for my mouth makeover * Homemade popcorn with my Dad * My mother's hilariously contagious laugh * Pedicures * Country dancing until I fall down * Laughing uncontrollably * A good movie * Brisk walks listening to my iPod * Meditation time in the mornings on my way to work, and at night, just before falling asleep * Making someones day * Blankets * Cornbread * My friends at work * Tanning * My calling(s) * the Temple * Crushed Ice * the Bubble Game on my phone (passes time on lunches) * Texts from cute boys * Nights with friends * Great advice * Thunderstorms * No more parasite sickness * An accomplished goal * Working on my China scrapblog *

Guatemala Vacation Scrapbook - As promised!

2009-07-24T23:16:00.001-07:00

Tender Mercies

2009-07-12T20:16:00.000-07:00

What an incredible week this has been. I cannot believe how blessed and fortunate I am to have had the experiences I have had. After my last post, I felt I needed to post this one because it is something I never want to forget. This is a part of my letter I just wrote to Casey this evening. (Sorry this is long)

"So I've been feeling really down the last few weeks because I'm completely stuck in a rut. I feel like I don't have a sense of direction to go. I have lots of ideas and hopes, but none of them have fallen into place. I want to move out and hopefully buy a condo - but that hasn't worked out. School is difficult to figure out. I feel lonely and ready for a husband and to start my own life and family but that's hard to figure out too. Anyways, I felt very down this past week and I've learned a great lesson and it bore a new little testimony for me and for that, I'm forever grateful. I'm so touched by how much our Heavenly Father loves us. It's incredible that He's answered some "unasked" prayers of mine. Despite my lack in prayer for help, He STILl chose to reach down through others to make sure I knew I was loved.

This past Thursday (a day after I probably felt my worst), a member came in to me. Her name is Jovita, but we call her Jovi. She is from the Phillipines and the kindest old woman. She doesn't understand finances too much so it's required some "special attention" from me to help her out. Well, her problem only took a second, but we started chatting and she began telling me amazing experiences she doesn't share with many people. She told me when she lived in the Phillipines she was known as a "Healer." She was a massage therapist who helped a lot of people that way, but had a sense to know what the physical needs, mental needs, etc was of those who visited her. At this point I was a little bit wary wondering where this was going to go, but it didn't take long until I felt emotional and had goosebumps on my arms (in the middle of the CU lobby at my desk!). She told me she doesn't know why people came to this assumption that she was a "healer," but she made sure she told everyone that she was not the healer, but that she was a tool in the Lord's hand. She bore testimony to them that God has control - not her - but that she would help them understand that. Through her experiences, brought many others seeking her counsel that she developed experiments to demonstrate this. She then told me how this brought her to the Church. She said she had been a member of seven other churches who would teach her and confirm to her what she already knew that a God lived and that He loved each one of us. She hadn't found an exact one, but had settled on being Baptist. It was then that her sister came to her one day and said, "Jovi, youneed to meet these young men." Jovi told me she literally ran and hid from the missionaries trying to escape them, but ended up bumping into them while trying to run away! She agreed to listen and she said from the moment the Elder started speaking she began weaping and couldn't control the tears. This is what she knew and was looking for. A gospel that testifies that God loves us so much that He sent His son to die for us, and that the Church was restored in Christ's name today. It was sucha beautiful experience and she even welled up with tears re-counting the experience to me. It was then that she said, "I don't know why I feel I needed to tell you all this." I told her I did because I knew God needed me to hear that He loves us and that He has a plan for us - even when we don't see the answer or direction to go. Like her trying to RUN from the missionaries, and ended up getting caught! She then asked me to go get two cups of water. She wanted to show me her experiment. I was a little hesitant obviously, but I did. I watched her after I brought out these cups of water that she had said a prayer for me! I felt she did! She told me to sip out of one cup, then out of the other and see if I tasted a difference. I was a bit embarrassed but did as I was told. Nothing was different. She instructed me to try again. This time I only noticed that one water seemed "softer" but no difference really. I told her, "I guess I don't believe." and she said, "It doesn't matter - it's my faith that matters in this, but it seems to me you are confused in life. You are in need of answers for your life, and that will come Samantha. That is why you tasted no difference in water - you can't decide or tell." She told me that in the past when she'd conduct this "experiment," most people would tell her that the first sip of water tasted "bitter" and the other water "sweet." She would then tell me that yes they were sick or suffering with something, but that it was up to them and the Lord who would help them and heal them if they would believe. For the water is the same in each cup. She then used the water as an analogy and said when things are bitter in our lives, we tend to focus on the bitter and believe it's bitter when its really not. She said that we'd be healed by Heavenly Father and once we know we are, the water will then taste as "sweet" as the last cup does. It was her special way of teaching that it's not her who heals, but the Lord. If we set our minds so much on the world or ourselves, we create a bitter tast when in reality, it can be as sweet as the second cup. The Lord will make it that way.

Then today, I met with the others of the Primary presidency for our stewardship meeting with Pres. Murdock. Towards the end of the meeting, he as Tammy if we were having a meeting as just the presidency. She told him no, but that she would hold one if he felt we needed to. He said no, but that he was curious because he needed to visit with me privately for a few moments and didn't want to take me away from another meeting. We closed our meeting and the others left. Once they left, he asked how I was doing. He said he sensed that I was down and confused. We talked about my dreams, goals, and aspirations and he gave me a lot of advice to consider on. Of course we talked about a mission, but he also talked about school, and student/singles wards, etc. No direct direction was given, but that didn't matter. The only thing he said was, "Just stay close to the Lord and have faith and ask Him where He wants YOU." I felt emotional again and I said, "Thank you for being so in tune to know exactly what I needed to hear. I have sucha testimony now that God loves me because he's provided me with answers to unasked prayers."

I'm amazed little brother! Just amazed! How come I am so blessed in my life to deserve this? To have the life I have and to be complaining that nothing is falling into place?? Yet here comes Heavenly Father still sending people and blessings my way even though I'm complaining that I don't have enough (ansers or direction that is). I regret to tell you this, but I didn't ONCE offer a prayer to Heavenly Father last week asking for help. What a testimony to know He is STILL there and hears our heart of hearts and blesses us."

Thank you to those who prayed for me because your prayers sincerely helped. While I still don't have "direction" to go, I know that the Lord will put me where I need to be!

Stuck

2009-07-06T14:30:00.000-07:00

I am in dire need of change. Seriously. My life is so monotonous lately I am dying of boredom inside. I've gotten to the point that I'm stuck in a rut. I thought I've been in a rut for years, but not this bad. I'm right there at that age, where the majority of my friends are married with a child and I obviously don't fit in there and the other friends I have that aren't married are fulfilling lives. I guess it's partly my fault for not getting completely involved in school or student wards earlier, but hey, can't go back right? Don't get me wrong, I've had some awesome experiences in my life. I've done some things, and gone through some things my friends never have, but it's not where I saw myself being at this age I'm at.

I had hoped that by now I'd had accomplished many things, but the last four years... I've only worked and traveled a little. Most people in my stage of life have graduated college and started their careers. Or they're married. Or even have two kids. I'm no where near that! The other option I get hounded on a LOT is a mission. Believe me, a mission has crossed my mind multiple times the last few years, and I wish so bad I could say it's the right thing for me to do, because then something would be coming of my life other than just working.

I was so ecstatic the beginning of this year to shake things up, but none of my dreams/ambitions have come yet. I've been wanting to buy a house this year and the 'right one' hasn't come along, or things have fallen through. I'm completely ready to start a new ward, but I want to wait until I find a house/condo or even apartment before I make the change. I'm still in the home ward - which isn't bad - but I don't belong there at my age and stage of life. School is still on a high priority, but with me needing to work full-time, it makes going to school really difficult. I've found a great option for school, but I won't have the 'social experience' which I looked forward to. I'm ready for a change and don't know how to begin! I'm open to suggestions, prayers or even a few lucky pennies to shake me out of my rut!

The Adventure of Jessye

2009-06-29T13:40:00.000-07:00

This past weekend I just returned back from Girl's Camp. I have been going to girl's camp for about 10 years. Minus one year after I graduated and I was living in China during the time. After I returned I got called in as an assistant camp director and I've been at it for three years now! Well this year was a little different. With the two other directors being pregnant and not able to go, I was it. Poor girls. I had to take care of them, make sure everyone certified, was safe, ate, didn't throw up (that seems to be a Barton Creek tradition each year), and had fun. We did pretty good this year as not ONE girl got sick (miracle!), the girls kept busy, I paid all the fees, girls were safe, etc. We enjoyed high-adventure activities like rock-climbing, 200 ft rapelling, COPE (some zip-line and high tasks to accomplish), canoeing, and hiking, but the best part of camp for me? The adventure of Jessye.

Jessye is the coolest girl. Hands down. This girl is like my little sister. I babysat her and her two younger sisters for 7 years and have watched her grow up. She was always adventurous and mischevious. Always getting into trouble and loving it. Well she got hers on June 25, 2009. The day started early and we made it to our campsite safely. After all of my girls had unpacked, we headed to the bowery for our first activity. I was walking down the hill and heard girlish screaming. I thought to myself, "Great. Three days of this." I turn the corner to find the screaming is coming from MY girls! I see Jessye in the dirt with tears streaming down her face in hysterics. She was also laughing uncontrollably. I was confused to her emotions and saw the three other girls only laughing. I asked what had happened and Becca took me to the bathroom where they had come from. I was very hesitant and cautious as Becca led me into a stall to peek over the wall to the other stall. When I stood on the toilet and looked over, I lost all control to laughter. The story is, Jessye used the restroom and when she got up to button her pants, she heard hissing and saw a full-grown bat hanging from the rim between her knees. She obviously screamed and tried to leave the stall, but then got stuck in the stall since the door wouldn't open. The bat continued hissing until she was able to fling the door open. Suprisingly, when I went to look at the toilet a few minutes after the incident, the bat was still in the toilet! We found a staff member and he fished the bat out of the toilet and it eventually died, but poor Jessye's heart took hours to completely calm down. It was a moment like this that made all of the camp work and preparations completely worth my calling. It could not have happened to a more perfect girl than Jessye. I am so glad I was there at the moment she stumbled out the bathroom into the dirt, because this was an expression and sight I didn't want to miss!

Update!

2009-06-12T09:49:00.001-07:00

I have been meaning to post for so long now but I never get around to doing it! Life is insane, especially the last month, but good! I've enjoyed taking advantage of summer coming now and I've already been four-wheeling, traveling, sun-bathing, etc!

May was my big month I'd been waiting for. The time finally arrived for my Guatemala trip I'd been long waiting for! I am putting together a scrapbook for more details and pictures, but here's a rundown of the week long trip in a nutshell:

Survived the most dizzy-ing, sickening and frightening flight and landing in my life, due to Guatemala's mountains and cliffs at the end of the runway..
Experienced my first earthquake
Killed the biggest spider I've seen in my life - all for a free diet coke :)
Zip-lined on the most exhilarating and scary 8 lines over the jungles and volcanoes of Guatemala.
Hiked my way around Solola's beautiful volcanoes, jungles and wild-life.
Survived my first parasite
Survived Guatemala's biggest political quarrel and murder conflict in a while
Saw my first firefly
Ate some of the freshest, yummiest foods
Enjoyed scenic boat rides along the Waters of Mormon (Lake Atitlan)
Bought two original, exquisite paintings
Listened to a full story in Spanish from a parrott
Had the best churro
Saw the prettiest places on earth (even over any places in China or Hawaii I've seen)
Met and loved a new grandfather figure
Made friends
Met a celebrity drummer (oh yeah Lidia!)
Was able to hang out with Lidia again!
Watched KayCee survive a third world country - and without real diet coke

Anyways, there were tons of memories and laughs and definitely an adventure. I came back to hussle and bustle of life and work and illnesses. We've had quite the illnesses spreading around the branch and required quite a bit of extra work and effort. I'm still in the market for my home and my realtor is fantastic at finding me some good places to consider - I'll keep you posted on if anything comes up. I'm still planning on school and I'm really excited to FINALLY getting started! Life is good, life is hectic, life is ready for adventure! Until next time, with a more detailed blog..

Stoopidity Hurts

2009-04-24T12:33:00.000-07:00

This will be something I will never live down. This is the latest in Sammi's Daily Adventures, but this sure takes the cake recently.

At work, our HR department promotes healthy lifestyles and therefore implements what we call "Active for Life." We usually do about three rounds of it a year or so, and we just concluded one this last month. As a last hoop-la, they decided to start an annual 5K. I sincerely was thrilled. I wasn't planning on running it, just walking, but I'm good at walking. Walking is something I can easily do, and do for a good long time and I enjoy it - I did three miles a day with Lidia. No problem right?

Anyways. The day of the event arrives. I was in charge of breakfast for the morning meeting and as I was in a hurry to leave my house, I forgot my "walking" shoes. I get to work and the day proceeds, well I get the brilliant idea to still do the 5K without the proper shoes. I don't know what was wrong with my brain that day, but it seemed logical. After all, it was just walking. After work, I drive to the center where we are meeting to begin the meet. Seeing the face of one of the HR managers should have been my clue that wearing HEELS to a 5K event was not the brightest idea, but NO my pride clouded my already dimmed mind and I waved off the warnings and decided to do it.

The event begins. I'm off to a great start. I'm walking and talking with some of my favorite work people and thinking to myself, "This shouldn't be too bad. I wear heels all the time. Besides, my feet function better in heels than flats." We round mile one and all I'm feeling is the blasting sun on my dark brown work pants. Let me tell you, that should have been a sight for the cars driving by - girlwalking in business attire with high heels in a 5K event surrounded by people in their sweats, running shoes and pushing cute running strollers. Oh well. Nothing embarrasses Sammi. I am She-Rah look at me accomplishing a 5K and all - in heels.

Then fate has a wicked sense of humor. Time seemed to slow at this point. I round the corner to Mile 2 and I'm still kicking it and in good time too! Even compared to the runners! Ah, but as luck would have it, I step slightly off and a piece of devil-ish gravel slips into my brown high heel. I take one glorious step and *SOUND OF BANGING DRUMS!* Nature's little rock made a literal imprint on my foot. I immediately stop bear a tough grin to my walking-mates and tell them to keep going and that I need to "clear the gravel from my shoe." I took off my shoe and shook out the rocks - including the one that nearly killed me. West Valley isn't dangerous, the roads are. By this point, I'm in pain from the slice in my foot, but what the hey, I only had a mile left right? WRONG. I blame my next mile's decisions on my blinding pain in my right foot. I decided to keep going and I continued WALKING IN MY HEELS! All that proved to do is rip my skin even further. When I got to the point of only half a mile left, I couldn't take it anymore and I took my heels off. I turned the corner to head back to our Center and I see grass! GLORIOUS grass!!!!! I skip to the grass and let me foot enjoy the damp, cool feeling. *FIREWORKS IN MY EYELIDS!!!* I stumble and look down to notice a pine needle lodged in the wound. What is the matter with me?!?!

Get this...this is my "brightest crayon in the box" moment. A fellow employee passes me at that moment and offers me a ride to the end. What do I do? I DECLINE!!!!! I decide to finish the 5K, because it's not like my foot can get any worse at this point. I could have sawed it off and it would have relieved the pain. I saw the laughter in his eyes as he drove away.

Anyways, I finish the 5K! Yay me! But only after 55 MINUTES! Which is humiliating considering I can usually WALK one in 35-40 minutes! I was in so much excruciating pain that I walked through the finish line and to my car and drove home. Once I got home I stuck my swollen dirty foot into an ice cold tub of water where I notice that I lodged a ROCK under my skin far up from the cut. My wound wasn't done developing yet... Time for some boy-scout surgery...

***** GRAPHIC PICS *****

This is me cutting through my skin to that black PEBBLE lodged in my foot...

And after the surgery....

I know...it may not seem bad, but it does prevent me from walking and it still stings. I cried to my mom about my pain and suffering and all she can do (understandably) is laugh and spread the story.

Inside of me lives a skinny girl dying to get out!

2009-04-04T19:01:00.000-07:00

It has been such a long time since I've blogged! But I haven't because nothing too exciting has happened lately in my life! And in all honestly, I've been really down lately. This is normal I've noticed for me whenever seasons change...especially when the weather is bi-polar! Oh well, regardless of how I feel, life is great and I need to pick back up and realize it!

With me being down however, it has had it's rewards...I've had a LOT of time to think and re-analyze my life and what I want to do with it. I'm in a very fragile stage of life where one decision permanently affects my life so I need to be careful, but the only things I can think of decision-wise, are how I feel inside and how my decisions will reflect how I want Sammi to actually be. Like the popular quote I've heard, "Inside of me lives a skinny girl dying to get out..." I have realized I have a few of those!

Haha! Inside of me lives a skinny girl DYING to get out! And she will!

Inside of me lives a successful girl waiting for an opportunity to get out.

Inside of me lives a confident girl waiting to finally accept herself.

Inside of me lives an extremely heart-broken girl waiting for her real chance at love!

Inside of me lives a smart girl wanting to know everything.

Inside of me lives an adventurous girl planning a world-wide vacation.

Inside of me lives a brave girl attempting to conquer her fears.

I want what I desire and yet I haven't figured out a way to actually accomplish them... And I'm impatient so I want it now!

I am grateful, inside, that I am going through this temporary trial, because I already can see it defining me, but I must admit, I am excited to escape life for a bit next month when I head to Guatemala. I need to clear my head and re-focus on what is really important in life. I need to be happy first, and settle my life the best way I want it to be, and the rest will fall into place. I'm so grateful to my supportive friends who have given me encouragement and endless love! Thank you, you'll never know how much I love you!

PS I swear I'm okay! Just stuck in a rut!

Watch out world, because here I come! :)

Economy's REAL effect on financial institutions...

2009-02-26T19:13:00.000-08:00

In this economic turmoil, many are under the impression that financial institutions have been hit only with financial problems. The following is what we do to really serve our members to get through this current recession:

1. We now offer free psychiatric sessions.

Example: A member approached me yesterday requesting a debt consolidation loan. He didn't speak much English (that's not the point..) and his business was, unfortunately struggling. His loan couldn't go through and I told the member this. He then says to me, "I jump cliff now." Let's just say after a few encouraging words, he left a happier and more confident man. Best of luck to you, sir.

2. We are your BFFs.

Example: People seem so uptight these days (understandably), especially women, that it requires a lot of Twilight talk, complimenting their babies and offering free checkbook registers before you can successfully get anywhere and satisfy the member before they leave with our full trust.

3. We now function as a food joint.

Example: One day I happened to work the drive-up window not long ago and a kind lady pulls up in her large Dodge Sprinter and hands me her driver's license. She says, "Hi can you please tell me how much I have in my account?" I proceed to pull up the account and tell her the amount. She then replies the following, "Thank you that's all I need. Oh but do you mind giving out some candy? I have a few kids in the car." I tell her, "Sure!" (Because you can't go to ANY bank or CU and not get candy. I totally agree with this, I do...but...) She then looks in her rear-view mirror and I see her count to herself. She turns to me and says, "Ok..IneedsixSmarties,fourcaramels,eightcinnamonbears,andtwoDumDums." So fast that her children couldn't argue.

4. Free Anger-management Annonymous classes:

Example: Opened an account for a sweet 95 year old man. Two days later he called furious and yelling about a mix-up he had between a "credit card" and a "debit card." He continued to insult me personally and throw himself into a rampage about financial institutions these days and demanded to close his account. After he yelled until his oxygen buzzed in the phone, I calmly said to him, "Sir? I'll be glad to help you. Please tell me what I can help you with." He then calms and starts talking about a minor home issue he'd been facing. There it is. We found the source of anger.

5. My personal new favorite...we are the new and improved payphone.

Example: Like most public places, a courtesy phone can often be found. With that said, and with street smart people around, they come in asking to use the phone. Of course, they use it and I eavesdrop. A recent conversation took place between a mother and someone I'm assuming is her grown child. "Ok dear, so Olive Garden at noon? Definetly. I can do that. Mm...their new shrimp dish looks fabulous."

6. Free Finance for Beginners 101 classes.

Example. I offer a terrific product to a member not long ago and throw in the ever-so-comforting "AND it will still be insured up to the $250,000.00!" She then brushes her hand towards me and says, "Oh I don't care about that. I'm already insured through State Farm." Blink blink. Ok.

I hope everyone can pull through this economy and successfully! Best of luck to everyone!

Here I Come!

2009-02-12T19:28:00.000-08:00

I am so excited! Today I made it official that I will be going to Guatemala May 23rd through May 31st!

Nielsen's Crew Reunion

2009-02-08T21:03:00.000-08:00

About two weeks ago I receive this Facebook Event invite things I always get. Usually I click "Maybe" to make people happy but never go, but this one captured my attention immediately. It is for a "Nielsen's Crew Reunion." Now, I absolutely loved my time at Nielsen's, I really did. It was the best job I could have had in high school and I made so many friends there, but I immediately wanted to take my cursor thing and click "NO!" for once. I have nothing against seeing my old friends, but I am not one to enjoy any type of reunion. I guess I figure once that lifetime has come and gone, I don't want to re-live any of it. I was interested in seeing a select few of those old co-workers, but still wasn't fully into it yet, so I clicked the infamous "Maybe" button.

Well February 7th rolls around and I am feeling guilty for not giving a solid RSVP (I did get a few threatening emails too..) and I even tried to avoid having to go by seeing a double movie with Mariah that day. We went to three different theaters to see if a movie would cover the time I'd have to go but none did! A movie theater! Anyways, so I dropped Mariah off and text my friend Krista (one of the few I wanted to see) and I'm not kidding, TWO minutes later she and her husband are in my drive-way to pick me up. I had told them I didn't want to go, but I had no choice now. I was heading to Nielsen's!

We get there and I was surprised at who showed up! Everyone that could come, did (Mal! I missed you there!!!!!) and it was nice seeing everyone from SEVEN years ago when I first started working there. I was still distant and out of my comfort zone as I am a completely different person (as we all are), but still made it a point to have a good time. We ate at Nielsen's and visited for a couple of hours while people came and went. Finally at about nine, the ten of us or so left, decided to go back to Krista and Brooklyn's house for a movie. I won't expand, but those of you who know me well, know that I have "history" with a few of them and I wanted to act casual and confident...I'd made it pretty gracefully throughout the night until we had to go downstairs for the movie. I felt proud of myself for holding myself together as the more mature, refined woman I am. I am not kidding, I take ONE step down and biff it. Six steps later and my vision returning I realize I had been in the front of everyone when I fell down the stairs. After an awkward short silence, Tad pipes in simply stating, "Sammi, you haven't changed a bit." The ice was officially and finally broken.

The rest of the night went fine. The boys still instisted on sitting "boy girl boy girl" on the couch so we stuffed seven people on the couch to watch Wall E and I spent the rest of my evening smashed between Tad and Zach eating the infamous Dots and Junior Mints.

In hind sight, I'm really glad I went to catch up. I saw a few people there I only worked with for one year when I was fifteen so it was really good to see them. We all seem to be the same friends we've always been and it sorta felt like we all picked up from where we left off.

NFC&D scoopies forever I guess!

Musings as of now..

2009-01-30T13:25:00.000-08:00

I have so much to blog about but I don't want to write tons of posts, rather, I am avoiding some altogether, so I'm just going to post my thoughts as of recently..

I'm surprised at the high demand of loans these days! It's ridiculous! I cannot remember a time where I was working on more loans alone now than I have in my entire time being in banking. And I love every minute of it.

I'm typically more conservative and "Republican" if you must label, but I am excited about President Obama in office for history sake and I am very hopeful for him.

My Guatemala trip is finally coming along and I think I have a set date! Details to come!

I'm highly impressed with Primary these days! It's been Ward Conference times in our Stake and has required me visiting all of the wards and speaking at some and the children are outstanding! They are smart, funny, and so happy!

I am still in YW's as the Asst Camp Director and this year will be a blast! I've realized I've been going to Camp since I was 12, minus two years (I had to miss last years, but I was still the leader!). I'm slightly disappointed in the attitude of the girls these days and how it's not "important" or "cool" anymore. Some of my greatest lessons were learned at Girls Camp!

I learned that praying out loud on a long drive home can heal a broken heart.

I am addicted to Wii-Fit Boxing. I can see myself enjoying boxing for the rest of my life!

I am SO grateful Jon and I are still friends who talk everyday. He is so important to me.

I took my "Placement" test at SLCC a few weeks ago and I'm embarrassed to say I scored a 105 in English, a 103 in Reading Comprehension and a 39 in Math. How pathetic!

I am sick and tired of the snow and cold.

My current, favorite past-time is hanging out with my Mom on Monday's eating chocolate ice cream and watching The Bachelor.

I've decided that parents who disrespect people in front of children, teaches them that back talking and insulting is ok and it repeats the process. No wonder society is awful these days.

I will skydive this year. I went indoor skydiving a while back and had so much fun with that, it's time for the real deal.

I work with the BEST people ever. Always have.

I feel like a loner these days!

"I'm 80% happy for them and like.. 20% jealous"

I secretly want to be a mail-woman because they walk all day (love it) and the money is awesome!

I really, really miss my brother, but I'm SO happy he's doing well and we still "talk" every week even if it's via an email.

I'm anxiously waiting for what I'm secretly calling "My Great News!"

Anyways, I'll get around to actually blogging soon enough when life picks back up again, until then...

The Curse of my Veh -...W!!!

2009-01-16T10:04:00.000-08:00

I know the most of you who follow my blog know I drive a 2000 VW Passat. Yeah, they're cute right? Ah..my friends, the are the little minions of the underworld... I'll give the cars some credit, they are cute, and they tend to get good gas mileage. That's where it stops. For me at least.

I bought this car in October of 2006 as a lemon. Terrible. And by some calendar events, I couldn't exchange the car. Fortunately, the dealership I bought it through was FANTASTIC and paid for everything that could and did go wrong. I was really impressed, as I still am. But I have had nothing but problems with it since the very beginning! The first week I had it, there was a leak of radiator fluid in my car. When that was fixed, my electrical of my dashboard went out. When that was fixed, my odometer was reset (it says I only have 30K on it, when really it's now over 100K!). When everything was hunky dory and fixed, I was ecstatic! Then TWO DAYS LATER, my car died in the middle of an intersection exiting I-215. That was fixed by the dealership for free (I think it was transmission??). By then I think my entire car was restored and I didn't have a problem with it until the next year when I needed to register it. Any and all shops weren't able to get an emissions reading on it because the wiring was done wrong from the previous owner! I had to get that fixed just to get a stupid emissions test! Finally it passed and I registered my car.

6 months go by....I'm driving on I-80 West towards Tooele with Shelley and we hear a shattering noise. She immediately asks, "What was that?!" I calmly look in my rearview mirror and see a large object bouning on the freeway breaking with each bounce. I turned to Shelley and said, "My right headlight." Yes, the WHOLE SOCKET OF MY HEADLIGHT! It literally fell out on the freeway! Bulb, reflecters and all. Because it is a VW and any thing wrong messes with the electrical system of the car, my back lights go out and I'm light-less. $192.00 later, it is fixed and I'm great!!!

Ah...this year's registration comes along a few months ago.... My car has squeeks and tweaks and I took it to Cutrubus in Layton (Fabulous! If you drive a VW, take it there! They're great!). My turbo plug was ruined. It cost me over $500.00 to fix that and I still have $400 of work left to do. I had to pay to get my turbo fixed, just to, again, get my car to pass emissions. I then have to buy new tires to pass safety. It finally passes and I'm good to go (until I get the remaining work done!).

Well, my friends, I write this to fill you in on the drama because I had another incident yesterday. I'm on my way to work, minding my own business and singing at the top of my lungs to the radio, when I hit something. I look in my side mirror and see what I've hit. I couldn't tell and it seemed like one of those half ice snow balls you hit on roads, so I pushed the thought away. It wasn't until I exited and put on my left blinker and heard that possessed blinker noise that I realized what it was. I'd lost my RIGHT light now! Same thing. On the freeway, and out it comes. Bulb, reflecter and all.

By now you're probably wondering why in the world I haven't sold this car yet! Well, I'm what lenders call "upside down" in it. With my odometer being off, and the work that still needs to be done, I'd have to sell it for almost $3000.00 less than what I owe! I'd only wished I'd been a loan officer BEFORE I bought this car, so next time you're looking to purchase a car, give me a call to find out if you'll EVER be upside down!

New Year's Resolutions

2009-01-05T16:18:00.000-08:00

A wise member told me that the secret to accomplishing New Year's Resolutions is to see them everyday. I figured since he's successful, wealthy, and happy, I should believe him, so I will post them publicly here and strive for them everyday:

1. Go back to school
2. Get back to my high school weight by April/May and keep it off!
3. Take two vacations.... One to Guatemala in six months Lidia!
4. Build a large savings account back up!

There you have it! I have a bunch of smaller ones, but these are the biggies I want to accomplish!!

2008: Great Year!

2008-12-31T10:28:00.000-08:00

Wow! I cannot believe it's New Year's Eve! I am really excited to begin 2009 with a bang! I'm hoping 2009 can be just as good, if not better, than 2008! I've had a fortunate year filled with great things: trip to Hawaii, promotion at work, meeting a very special someone, adventurous and spontaneous trips to St George and Vegas, late nights with friends, Desert Star Theatre productions with my family every month, a new niece, finding out another new niece will be arriving, making new friends, accepting my stake calling - it has really taught me responsibility, Casey leaving on a mission after 19 years of dreaming, and many, many more. I'm excited to see what 2009 will bring and I've already started working on my New Year's resolutions! I hope everyone had a great year and Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-21T19:46:00.000-08:00

I wanted to post this early since the Holidays tend to get crazy! As they already have been! I'm grateful for this time of year where we can really reflect on the true meaning of Christmas. I've been bad about not focusing on Christ as much as I should or wanted to the last few years but I've regained a strong testimony of our Savior Jesus Christ. I'm thankful for who He is and what He's done for all of us. I'm grateful I can freely bear testimony of Jesus Christ. I know He lives, I know He loves us and that He died for our sins. He understands and carries our burdens when they are heavy and I take advantage of this greatest gift all the time. I want anyone and everyone to know I love Him and will continually work hard to show Him I appreciate and love Him with all of my heart.

As a gift, I want to share these two links that have really touched my heart and spirit this Christmas time. The first is the website of the artist who created Reflections of Christ. My new favorite book.

http://mabrystudios.typepad.com/reflections_of_christ/2008/03/reflections-sli.html

Merry Christmas!!

A Tribute to Lidia

2008-12-17T11:58:00.000-08:00

One of the greatest girls known to me and on earth moved here to Utah last year and I was privileged to work with her for a year. During that year we became (I would consider) great friends. We worked close together and developed a great friendship. Last week, after a lot of consideration and prayerful decisions, she broke the news that she is moving back to Texas to be with her family. I will REALLY miss her as she has been a HUGE strength to me that only she can understand. I am forever grateful for her influence in my life and her outstanding friendship. As a tribute to you, Mango, I want to list my favorite memories I've had with you!!

1. Remember that night in Tooele out by Jason's in the summer? Oh yeah! Only you would join with me in such an adventure!!
2. Our nightly walks to improve our health that only lasted a month. I loved that we'd walk the track behind my house for three miles every night while listening to our Ipods and singing. Me my Kosy songs, and you, your Latino specialties!
3. Watching Will and Grace together!
4. Our FUN trip to St George and Vegas with Shelley and Summer and we were both so fascinated by the fancy toilets we took our pictures on them!
5. Going to the aquarium for your birthday only to try and convince KayCee to pet the sting rays!
6. Me falling down the stairs and you laughing for hours while I was attempting my Spanish.
7. Watching you try to stomach Hunan!
8. Being the first person, with Shelley, to witness your reaction of your first time seeing snow!
9. The day you told us the story about the accident you passed. You know, the "behicle that carries dead bodies?" and the flowers were strewn all over the freeway! LOL!
10. Our three movies in one night...same theater!
11. Us shopping at the Asian market!! Haha! And those nasty fluffy frozen things.
12. You stealing my Spencer away from me! Although, dang we both love that little guy!
13. You and me entertaining ourselves all night in the emergency room with Shelley. We played with the gloves, the bed, the chair and even the hospital gowns...
14. Making my grandma pee her diaper with your stories about you and your grandma. Haha!

Amiga, never a dull moment when you're around! Although I'm totally bummed you bailed as my roommate, and our Guatemala trip, I'm SO THANKFUL you were my friend! And that we'll be friends forever! I'm excited to visit you in Texas then catch the plane over to Guatemala! Remember amiga.... Alotra latho de rio aveo una garca greefa con sinco Home Depot. Saluthe. Diamo. Amor! Ciao!

Count your many blessings name them one by one..

2008-12-12T20:10:00.000-08:00

I had a really bad day today, so I've always been told to count your blessings in those times when you feel it's not enough. Besides, what a great season to list your thankfuls:

* My family of course. I have been so blessed with the best family. Not much more I can say about them as a whole other than they are wonderful.
* My mom. Yeah this can technically count as 'family' but she's my hero and definitely knows me inside out and is a HUGE support.
* My Dad. He's my number one man and one of my number one fans. He is always thinking I can conquer the world and views me as someon special. I've been really lucky to have a father with such a humble nature.
* My friends. What in the world would I do with out you? Whether I see you everyday or those I went to high school with. You'll never know your impact on me.
* Maren Halverson. What an influence she has been on me growing up. Her testimony was beyond profound and I always felt I could sense exhaltaion with her around. She certainly blessed so many lives. Click HERE to read about Maren.
* Food. 'Nough said.
* Living where I am, who I am. I heard a lesson in RS once about the chances of someone being born a female, in the United States, in Utah, to parents still together, and in the covenant. Very slim is all I can remember. Dang I'm lucky.
* My job. I've been really lucky despite missing out on furthering a degree that I've really progressed in my job. I've come to really love it and it's opened many opportunities and learning experiences for me.
* My calling. It is so intense but has taught me to be more responsible and that procrastination doesn't work well in the Church!
* Alma 26. My favorite chapter in the Book of Mormon. Having been someone who has fought depression, this has been a sacred and hopefelt chapter for me to refer to.
*Speaking of Relief Society, I have the BEST Relief Society! It's my home ward and I will never part from it! These ladies are the ladies I look up to most!
* Financially independent. Sorta. Yeah so I live in my parents' basement apartment, but I can afford my own clothes, car, bills, etc. My parents taught me at a young age at the importance of financial obligations!
* Having a car. Living in China, I've learned this is a luxury.
* Music. Ah, music. Nothing makes me feel the spirit stronger than Church music, and they types of songs I listen to can express my mood.
* Laughter. I love to laugh. I love to make people laugh. I love to laugh at myself.

Last but not least

* JOY. Jesus Others and You. I learned once that the difference between happiness and joy is one is temporarily euphoric and rather worldly while the other is everything good AND happy all together; love, hope, Christ, family, friends, knowing who you are.

Heartache

2008-11-24T15:06:00.000-08:00

I hope she'll forgive me for this, but I figured because I treat this blog like a journal, this is something I would normally do in a regular journal entry.

Yesterday I got news from a family in my ward concerning a really close friend of mine I grew up with, Abby. She and I have drifted apart the last few years due to lives changing since high school. We've kept in contact and I found out she was pregnant and so excited for her baby girl to arrive! I knew she was due any day and I've been waiting for her to message me about it. Well her family called to tell me she did have her baby, but it died during labor. Of course, she is heartbroken, but she has kept up good faith in this difficult trial. I hope that despite what she's gone through (not even with this pregnancy) that she decides to draw close to the Lord and the Gospel of Jesus Christ. If she does and makes right choices, she will be able to raise this beautiful baby girl Olivia. Please, especially if you know her, keep her and her family in your prayers.

Have you..

2008-11-17T10:59:00.000-08:00

Here's how it works: Bold and color all the things that you have done in your life. (this was given from Mindi's blog!)

1. Started your own blog 2. Slept under the stars 3. Played in a band 4. Visited Hawaii 5. Watched a meteor shower 6. Given more than you can afford to charity 7. Been to Disneyland 8. Climbed a mountain 9. Held a praying mantis 10. Sang a solo 11. Bungee jumped 12. Visited Paris 13. Watched a lightning storm at sea 14. Taught yourself an art from scratch 15. Adopted a child 16. Had food poisoning 17. Walked to the top of the Statue of Liberty 18. Grown your own vegetables 19. Seen the Mona Lisa in France 20. Slept on an overnight train 21. Had a pillow fight 22. Hitch hiked 23. Taken a sick day when you’re not ill 24. Built a snow fort 25. Held a lamb 26. Gone skinny dipping 27. Run a Marathon 28. Ridden in a gondola in Venice 29. Seen a total eclipse 30. Watched a sunrise or sunset 31. Hit a home run 32. Been on a cruise 33. Seen Niagara Falls in person 34. Visited the birthplace of your ancestors 35. Seen an Amish community 36. Taught yourself a new language 37. Had enough money to be truly satisfied 38. Seen the Leaning Tower of Pisa in person 39. Gone rock climbing 40. Seen Michelangelo’s David 41. Sung karaoke 42. Seen Old Faithful geyser erupt 43. Bought a stranger a meal at a restaurant 44. Visited Africa 45. Walked on a beach by moonlight 46. Been transported in an ambulance 47. Had your portrait painted 48. Gone deep sea fishing- 49. Seen the Sistine Chapel in person 50. Been to the top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris 51. Gone scuba diving or snorkeling 52. Kissed in the rain 53. Played in the mud 54. Gone to a drive-in theater 55. Been in a movie 56. Visited the Great Wall of China (close enough) 57. Started a business 58. Taken a martial arts class 59. Visited Russia 60. Served at a soup kitchen 61. Sold Girl Scout Cookies 62. Gone whale watching 63. Got flowers for no reason 64. Donated blood, platelets or plasma 65. Gone sky diving 66. Visited a Nazi Concentration Camp 67. Bounced a check 68. Flown in a helicopter 69. Saved a favorite childhood toy 70. Visited the Lincoln Memorial 71. Eaten Caviar 72. Pieced a quilt 73. Stood in Times Square 74. Toured the Everglades 75. Been fired from a job 76. Seen the Changing of the Guards in London 77. Broken a bone 78. Been on a speeding motorcycle 79. Seen the Grand Canyon in person 80. Published a book 81. Visited the Vatican 82. Bought a brand new car 83. Walked in Jerusalem 84. Had your picture in the newspaper 85. Read the entire Bible 86. Visited the White House 87. Killed and prepared an animal for eating 88. Had chickenpox 89. Saved someone’s life 90. Sat on a jury 91. Met someone famous 92. Joined a book club 93. Lost a loved one 94. Had a baby 95. Seen the Alamo in person 96. Swam in the Great Salt Lake 97. Been involved in a law suit 98. Owned a cell phone 99. Been stung by a bee

8 Tag

2008-11-12T08:36:00.000-08:00

I've been tagged by my cousin Michelle, so here goes!

8 TV SHOWS:
1. FRIENDS
2. Will & Grace
3. The Office (when I watch it..)
4. The Price is Right
5. Deal or No Deal
6. Extreme Makeover: Home Edition
7. GSN
8. GSN

* I love game shows and I don't watch much TV so don't laugh*

8 THINGS THAT HAPPENED YESTERDAY:
1. Didn't have to work
2. Went bowling
3. Went to the Asian Market and bought crazy food with Lidia. YUM!
4. Went Visiting Teaching
5. Ate Cafe Rio
6. Finished the last season of Will and Grace with Lidia waiting for her car to be done (pathetic, I know)
7. Cooked authentic Chinese dumplings to which no one liked except me
8. Slept in a little

8 FAVORITE PLACES TO EAT:
1. Pawitt's Royal Thai
2. Joy Luck
3. Lonestar
4. Spaghetti Factory
5. Outback (yes..I love steak)
6. Joe's Crab Shack
7. Subway
8. McDonald's (gross huh?)

8 THINGS I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO:
1. Christmas
2. Summer (I hate snow and winter!)
3. Guatemala!! (Yes Lidia..I've blogged it! It's official!!)
4. Getting down to a size 6 again
5. Possibly starting school again
6. A new year with new goals
7. Selling my car
8. Getting a newer, better, durable car!

8 THINGS ON MY WISH LIST:
1. A new car
2. Be skinnier
3. Traveling
4. No loans and more money!
5. A new phone
6. A husband! Eventually... :)
7. My own place
8. A diploma from school

I now tag all of my friends and family!

Urban Dictionary...This is great!

2008-11-09T21:18:00.000-08:00

So my infatuation with www.urbandictionary.com began a few years ago when I accidently let the word "Wenis" slip at work. Boy was I razzed until I could prove through this hilarious website that a definition of the word exists! Well, today, out of boredom, I looked up my name just to see what would come up.

First I tried "Sammi:"

*I apologize about some of the words/language used*

1. Sammi

A Girl That Is Funny, Likes To Drive Around And Acts Like A Kid. Very Sexually Driven.
"Did you see that Sammi girl today?" "Yeah she was driving like a right twat, must have been sexually frustrated!"

2. Sammi

If you see a chick that looks like she robbed Hot Topic and is wearing everything all at once, she's a sammi. Sammis are always girls. Usually they look like they have no idea if they're goth, emo or punkrawkers, and most of the time they just look like posers. If you see one, try not to laugh. Also name of a Japanese pop star. I think.
"Ohmigod, girlfriend, she's such a sammi. Let's laugh."

I literally laughed out loud and my first thought was, "When Lidia reads this..I will never live this down." So I decided to take a more feminine, mature approach and try "Samantha:"

1. Samantha

Usually a name for a person that is a walking Goddess. Gorgeous to the maximum, fun to talk to, easy to befriend with a sexy booty. Often pulls off the innocent act but she gets around.

"Damn, that Samantha is too cute for words."

2. Samantha

A sexy female who if you are not currently dating you should get with. Samanthas are women of beauty and booty and usually a gorgeous blonde. They are all you wish you had and the best choice for a girl friend. (unless you know a samantha who is a man) If you date or dated these gorgeous Samantha's you have all you'll ever need or you are mental and let the best thing you had go, without realizing it. Samantha's are the best in bed even if they appear they aren't. Get to know your Samantha because studies show many grow up to be nude models just out of the blue.

boy 1: i cant believe i let samantha go boy 2: yea dude you're such an idiot. do u not know how awesome she REALLY is? you didnt even give her a shot boy 1: im an idiot.

Now this is more like it!!! I'm officially ONLY Samantha for the rest of my life!

Seven Addictions Tag

2008-11-05T10:56:00.000-08:00

I now tag Marne', Summer, Lidia, KayCee, Brenna, and Mallory.

List Seven Addictions:

1) ICE: Oh my gosh. This is an addiction for me. I'm crazy about crunching ice. Especially the kind that comes from those fridges. Yum!

2) HERSHEY'S WHITE CHOCOLATE COOKIES AND CREAM: I love those candy bars. Hands down. They are my guilty pleasure. I award myself one at least once a week.

3) CELL PHONE: Oh yeah..it shows the generation I belong to, but I live to have my phone for two reasons: texting and Solitaire.

4) EMILY, RACHEL, AND EVA: These are my favorite girls I know. My three beautiful nieces are the best and I can't stand to be away from them long. Emily is my first niece who is becoming brilliant, Rachel is my drama queen who just adores me back, and my sweet Eva is my kindred spirit in a baby. I swear she's mine but since God said I'm taking too long, He sent her to my brother :) These girls are perfection!!

5) DIET COKE AND FRIES: Oh yeah...I've fallen in the trap of Diet Coke, but I LOVE this stuff!! Fries have always been my weekness. This is the sole reason I am not losing weight as fast as I hoped!

6) CUDDLING: A very typical girl thing, but I cannot have enough of it. There is nothing better than cuddling with your special honey and smelling the cologne. Yep. Addicted.

7) ACCESSORIES: Of all sorts. I hate clothes shopping because I'm fluffy and it depresses me to shop, but I LOVE LOVE LOVE shoes, jewelry and makeup. I would be fine wearing pj's as long as I had some amazing shoes to go with it!

Well there you go...seven addictions of Samantha Wright...sad to say that a lot are foods and not so healthy ones....

Update!

2008-11-01T10:26:00.001-07:00

I feel like this should be one of those "Dear Diary...Sorry I haven't written in forever!.." type of an entry. Life has been good. I have an amazing life and I'm so lucky for that!

Lets see the last month or so has been pretty full and fun! At the beginning of the month, I took Jon to a Jazz game for his birthday. Granted, it was only pre-season, but I did manage to get sixth row tickets at a decent price. And lets face it, any price is worth being that close to Kyle Korver! We had a lot of fun there and definitely something I'm glad I did!

In the middle of October, Shelley, Lidia and myself decided to randomly take a mini road trip down to St George to visit Summer for the weekend. So we packed up and left straight after work one Friday night and made it to St George in a short three hours. Shelley drove as you can tell :) While we were there, we decided to book it to Vegas for a day. I have never been to Vegas and have always wanted to see what it was like. I felt that as the time of day gets later, the trashier it gets. I haven't breathed in that much smoke since I lived in China and I had the worst headache that night. None the less, we did manage to have a blast and steal a few pics..

This is us later in the afternoon ready to get some food and order a virgin drink, just to say we did :)

Below is me and my favorite Summer!

This is me at they Wynn Hotel's public bathrooms. Seriously, have you ever seen a more amazing toilet?! I just had to have Lidia take one!

This is the floor level of the Wynn Hotel where we briefly wandered around... If you can't tell its the Casino....seriously, maybe its just because I always go to Motel 6's and this was the first place we stopped, but I couldn't get over how incredible this hotel looked! We parked right outside of it and we walked through the doors and immediately to our right was a room full of Ferrari's. Tell me that isn't amazing.
And last but not least, a view of the Venetian Hotel. This was, by far, the prettiest part of the strip. They architecture here was out of this world. It was so beautiful!

All in all, the short trip to Vegas was fun, but something we were glad we did for only a few hours. We now know, first hand, why it is called Sin City.

A last update to give is my birthday! I turned 22 this past week and celebrated for a full week it seemed like! My friends were so good and made sure my birthday was something special. Lidia and KayCee took me to get a makeover and then helped me splurge on the makeup! Saturday was completely scheduled out for Jon. He made sure the whole day was filled with things I wanted to do. He picked me up around 9:30, we made breakfast, spent the morning in Snowbird (which I love!), then had lunch, a short nap for Sam while he watched the Hulk I think, then to Massage Envy! I had told him a while back how much I had wanted a massage! I had never had a professional one and he remembered and bought me an hour long massage. Right after that was dinner. Since he knew how much I love all kinds of Asian foods, he took me to Bonsai. We sat with two other really fun couples and had a blast. Despite having the cook literally toss a shrimp into my eye, the food was terrific! Last but not least, to end the night of with a kick, we hit Nightmare on 13th! I LOVE haunted houses, anything scary, but I don't deal with them well. I woke up at three in the morning with a horrible sore throat. Sunday my whole family came over for dinner and to hang out for my birthday. I had spent the afternoon rushing to Tooele and going to a Homecoming there. That is a story in itself.. so by the time I got home, I had missed my own birthday dinner! My mom had made a delicious cake (even though she put an extra candle on it..) and the night was fun. Monday, my actual birthday was spent with my number one man...my dad. He and my mom took me to dinner to Texas Roadhouse. My dad is so sweet, he even got a kiss!

Well, that about sums up my life the past month... Thanks Lidia for the Vegas pictures I stole.. :)

Happy Halloween!!

2008-10-31T15:51:00.001-07:00

Yay! I love Halloween!! This year, since our branch have been duds the last few years at this, we have decided to go out and be something outrageous. We decided we should all be a Redneck/Hick family. I, fortunately, got to play the part of Ronald McMillan and Shelley was my wife LaFawnda with the rest of the staff as our children. More pics to come later!

Happiness Begins with Me!

2008-10-03T17:26:00.000-07:00

I have had this thought on my mind a lot the last few weeks. I had to post a few thoughts about it. I have wondered if I'm happy and what makes me happy. What actually defines ones happiness? I was grateful to go to Women's Conference this past weekend. It was beautiful and uplifting! I especially enjoyed Elder Uchtdorf's talk. What a happy man he is! The things he talked about really made me think that I am special woman and I deserve to be happy! So, with much thought to this, I realized that much of our happiness depends on our mood and attitude, not our circumstances. I realized that true happiness is how I view life and what I see as joyful, not things or situations that come. So, with that said, here is a list (yet another one!) of some simple things I have learned to take joy in and realize I am happy!

Being healthy is really important to feel mentally happy, so I have really taken a liking to walking at night with my iPod blasting and staring at the sky.
Laughing at simple mistakes and trials! Life throws twists and turns...go with the flow and it's a fun ride!
Knowing you always have something to work on to continue being happy.
Being righteous.
Continue finding ways to become even closer to the Lord and our Savior
Being a citizen of the United States with a right to vote! I have a say!
Meeting a veteran of the military. I was privileged to meet Gordon Ewell (Google him!) the other day and I felt very humbled and fortunate that I have people like him serving our country!
Having a difficult calling and working hard to fulfill it and actually accomplishing it!
Being privileged to see baptisms each month as these young kids make a huge step in life. They have the most amazing, simple testimonies.
Primary programs! I feel the spirit so strongly at those! No wonder God asks us to become like little children. They are so happy and grateful!
My family of course. I have been so lucky to be blessed with such a great family!
My friends. Each one of you who reads this, you have impacted my life enormously! I have such special friends!
Strangers I meet at the Credit Union...I met a family with 6 Autistic children(www.autismbites.com) who have such a beautiful view on life. Thank you Kirtons for showing me how life can be despite the challenges.
Being a good example to try to impact peoples lives for the better.
Being in Church.
Expanding your horizons by placing yourself in difficult situations and taking every good opportunity you can.
Accomplishing goals.
Diversifying your life.
Traveling and experiencing culture shock!
Recognizing that you have control over your life and happiness!

Auf Wiedersehen Elder Wright!

2008-09-10T15:41:00.000-07:00

Today Casey left for his mission to Munich Germany/Austria! I was privileged to be the only sibling who went to the MTC with my parents. It was a beautiful experience, one that Casey desperately needed today. He couldn't have started his mission in a more spiritual and accepting way. Hats off to the volunteers, missionaries, workers, etc there who make it a smooth transition and a positive experience for the missionaries and families.

Casey is a remarkable kid! I couldn't be more proud of my baby brother!! He has been one of my best friends and confidantes in my life and I am so blessed to have him as my closest sibling and friend. We have been through a lot together, and a part of me feels like I've left! I already have a huge hole in my heart and I will miss him so much. He is more than well prepared to serve the Lord and the people of Germany and Austria. He is dedicated and excited to fulfill his dream and spread the Gospel. I'm grateful to his testimony that he has born to me both in Spirit, actions and words that thy Gospel of Jesus Christ is true. Heavenly Father loves us and wants nothing but the best for us. I'm so proud of Casey and the example he is and the brother he's always been.

Best of luck!!

Intro continuation... 50 Things About Me

2008-09-02T19:40:00.000-07:00

Again, a stolen idea. But hey, in my defense, I'm new to this "blogging" stuff! Here are some random, possibly unknown facts about Moi:

1) I think olives and mushrooms are the grossest things ever. Period.
2) I love thunderstorms and I think I'm backwards..the sun depresses me.
3) Ironically to number 2, I love to tan. Haha. Guilty pleasure, I know.
4) I LOVE to be stressed and overwhelmed. I may be a witch during it, but I enjoy it!
5) I'm obsessed with wanting to travel to not-so-common places!
6) I'm deathly afraid of vomiting. Truth.
7) I have a mysterious talent of flooding every toilet I use as a "guest."
8) I fight the urge to play in mud more often than not..
9) I actually kinda like the smell of mildew..yeah I know
10) My dream pet would actually be a chameleon.
11) I prefer mountain life over beach anyday.
12) I hate snow and being cold.
13) A car I've always wanted wouldn't be a Mercedez or BMW or even a Lamborghini, oh no, but a Dodge Sprinter! Imagine pimpin' that baby out!
14) Google is my number one visited website multiple times daily.
15) I would love to travel space someday, if I could get over the shooting at a million miles an hour towards outer nothingness.
16) I crack myself up. Sad, but true.
17) My mom is the only person who can truly embarrass me.
18) I do a GREAT impression of the T-Rex from Jurassic Park.
19) I don't know how to flirt.
20) I secretly still enjoy teen films :) They make me laugh
21) I have peed my pants twice - both over the age of 15.
22) I have stapled my finger at work. No bueno.
23) I am a daddy's girl.
24) I still love sitting in front of fans and making my voice sound funny.
25) Ross is my ONLY weakness for shopping.
26) Shoes are my passion!
27) I can type extremely fast...one of my few, raw talents..
28) My mind is a Spell Check. Bad spelling bothers me a little.
29) My two favorite cities in the world are Qingdao and Park City.
30) I love hot water. The hotter on my skin, the better.
31) I have never had stitches
32) Never been on the Collossus at Lagoon. No desire. And NO Wicked! I'm a chicken alright?!
33) Rockband and Guitar Hero are the best games around.
34) I love country music
35) I wanna be a cowgirl
36) I am almost 22 and still don't know exaclty what I want to do when I grow up. Only ideas.
37) I dream of being an author and motivational speaker on Oprah.
38) Judge Judy is a secret favorite TV show. So is the Cosby Show!
39) SnoCones are incredible!
40) I am fascinated with WWII and the history behind it all.
41) I enjoy culture shock
42) I have my own 'Bucket List' already.
43) I actually really enjoy what I do for my work...loans, money, tellering, IRA's, etc. I pretend I don't but I actually do!
44) I'm a game show freak and desperatly want to win Deal or No Deal.
45) I'm addicted to FRIENDS and wish my life were like that sometimes.
46) The dream of being a soccer mom is big for me..with 12 little ones!
47) I love hicks/red-necks
48) I find humor in places I probably shouldn't. Everything is funny to me..
49) I'm more attracted to hilarious, weird guys like Rainn Wilson than I am the Gerard Butlers. Don't get me wrong, Gerard Butler's are almost perfect, but can they make me laugh like the "Naked Drummer"?
50) I LOVE filling out surveys.

TFCUM - continued!

2008-08-28T10:12:00.000-07:00

This post idea comes from my wonderful friend Marne' (www.marnitzzle.blogspot.com) who just so happens to be in the Financial Industry as well. My fellow co-workers and friends of mine all joke that we are "Bitter Bankers" and the list that Marne' has given and ones I will add on will only show why that statement is actually true! So those of you who who bank with a Credit Union particularly, listen up. TFCUM - Tips For Credit Union Members:

Tip 12: We do not babysit accounts. Do not expect us to call you every 1st and 30th of the month to let you know your Social Security deposits have come.

Tip 13: If you request a full year's worth of account statements and it takes the teller/personal account representative more than 10 minutes to research it and print it out, do not ask us to staple it, then briefly glance at it, make highlights, then ask us to shred it when you're done. There is a reason we are now charging to print statements.

Tip 14: Do not complain about the systems we run off of. We all know computers give grief. Especially when we get a new system. Its not like WE made the choice! We hate it just as much, if not more, than you guys do!

Tip 15: Never, ever assume that just because you have a pad of checks left, you have plenty of money in your account. We will not waive the bounced check fees for your stupidity.

Tip 16: When applying for a loan, and you're denied because of credit delinquency, do NOT come back to me in three weeks stating you've paid them, because I guarantee that the reports have not updated and I hate pulling them again!

Tip 17: Also on the showing ID for cash back, a Costco card does NOT count as valid identification. Nor does a Temple Recommend!

Tip 18: If you develop bitter feelings toward your banker, chances are so have we and we talk about you too.

Tip 19: Never write a check to someone, then come in the next day to put a stop payment on it because you found a chip in the paint from the painters work. It defeats the purpose of the "negotiable instrument!" It is now the painters money!!

Tip 20: Hey, we're only young college students only working to get by, do you REALLY think we're experts at your IRA distributions? Contact your accountant! Thats what you hired them for.

Tip 21: Don't complain about our Soft Hits During the Work Day. We don't like the music either.

Tip 22: Don't request we get candy other than Smarties or Tootsie Rolls. If we gave out Hershey Kisses or delectable chocolates, we'd be asking to see you more often!

Tip 23: Don't come in assuming you're our favorite member. Those with that attitude, news flash, you're the ones we hate seeing the most.

Tip 24: Be civil. There is no need to take it out on a TELLER!

Tip 25: Do not expect us to bend the rules by approving a loan through the drive-up on a Saturday. We have rules for security purposes, and we get fired for breaking them! Have respect that it's our job on the line, not your convenience.

Tip 26: A personal request...if you are a construction worker, or you are just feeling a little too hot, please, please, PLEASE do not carry cash in your back pocket then bring it in on your lunch hour to deposit it. The sopping, stinky bills makes us lose our lunch.

Tip 27: When a teller or loan officer tells you there is something they can't do, do NOT just shimmy down the teller line or to a desk for a second, third, fourth, and fifth opinion. We stick to our guns.

Tip 28: Do not hit on us. We do reserve the right to close your account...

Tip 29: When we ask, "Is there anything else we can do for you today?" it is an invitiation for you to leave our station or desk. Do not spit out, "Nope. Not unless you're giving out Zeros today!" or "How about a large fry with that!" Its really not funny.

Tip 30: When we close our lobby and five minutes later you come screeching around our drive through demanding $5000 and we say, "No, sorry, you'd have to come into the lobby tomorrow" do not scream at us that we closed early. No we didn't.

Tip 31: Do not try to get us to cash pay-stubs, or merchant coupons. We may be unfocused and take them, but you'll be charged a fee and we won't waive them.

Tip 32: When we ask how much you gross per month in income for a loan application, give us the actual amount you make. We know that cashiers at Seagull Book and Tape do not make $8000 a month. We do verify your income. Save yourself the humiliation.

I'll stop there, its all common sense! Thanks Marne' for the urge to vent as well!

Wo Hen Ai Ni Changle Er Zhong!!

2008-08-25T08:39:00.000-07:00

Today marks a significant day in my life!! Three years ago this very day I took off for the greatest adventure of my life! At a young (and crazy..) age of 18, I hopped on a plane with my cousin and we flew around the world to begin a new, short life in the beauty of China! Never, ever did I expect to enjoy it as much as I did. Never, ever did I imagine I would learn as much as I did. Never, EVER would I have thought I'd miss the place, my friends, students, and my life there. Not a day goes by that I don't think about my life over there and the incredible happiness it brought me. I am still growing and learning from that amazing experience I had. It's days like today that humble me and make me proud to have lived my life the way I have. Sure, I'm WELL behind every single one of my friends in school (all of you are graduating soon!!), but I am SO grateful I didn't choose to start college immediately and take some time out for myself to broaden my horizons and change everything about my core beliefs! I gained a testimony that only China would have brought me. I learned a new language (in which I have mostly forgotten), made new friends that will have a great place in my heart (Krissie, Amy, Bryce, Mandi...all of you!), and I taught and was taught by the most amazing 3000 students!!!

I need to document some of my most favorite memories I had there (mainly for me to always remember, but hopefully you'll enjoy!). I'll never forget that first night there...I was so so tired from flying over 18 hours total, finally getting to Beijing at midnight their time only to BREAK MY TOE!! I had to waddle to my next flight with Bryce and catch it to Qingdao to meet our school. They picked us up and we had a two hour drive to the little village I was to spend the next 5 months in. It took forever!! After what seemed like forever (and Bryce requesting to pull over to pee :) ) we pulled up in front of a school. It was glorious. Not because I was excited to live there, but because it was nearly 4 am and I was beat. They took us to our "apartments" which ended up being a CLASSROOM (Yes, I lived in the Physics Preparation Room 1)!!! It was HORRIBLE accomadations compared to what we were told we were going to live in. It had been changed as much as they could to an apartment and it really wasn't too bad. Just the kitchen/laundry room/bathroom. Wait...I didn't have a bathroom in my apartment!! That was the first thing I asked! River (our Savior in China) showed me my bathroom. It was outside...across my apartment and a hole in the ground. No way. I quit. I was catching the next flight out back to the US the next morning. But I needed sleep before I planned it. :) I knew my parents would be anxious to hear from me, so I grabbed my phone and it wouldn't dial out of the school. Crap. So I turned on my computer to email...all in Chinese. Crap. I don't know how, a miracle perhaps, but I was able to find Hotmail and I sent a short message to my dad: "Dad, Save me. I'm here. And its awful" Something to that effect :) Needless to say, it scared him to death. I crashed immediately after (not even unpacking or even changing clothes!) and the next morning, my life in China seemed to be much better looking after that night. I know that wasn't a great memory, but it is fond now!

Another few favorites, I loved starting classes and hearing the gasps and wow's from all of my students as I walked in the first time. They were almost as excited as I was! We quickly developed friendships and had many fun memories and class sessions together. The first classes we all had I taught them "Popcorn Popping on the Apricot Tree" and I have pictures showing them playing along. I remember the gifts they graciously gave to me all the time. Homemade gifts, old hand-me-down gifts, one of them being my all time favorite. It is a little stuffed pig key-chain that I named "JOOOOOO!!" Or "PIGGGGGG" in Chinese. I still cherish that ugly, little thing today :) I remember traveling with Bryce and our friends to Beijing (that is a story in itself I'll share later...still a little personal) and Qingdao. We stayed in hostels, traveled, shopped and dined. We emmersed ourselves in the culture and enjoyed it to the fullest. I loved going to Church there, our small "branch" of 10 members and traveling two hours to get there. I loved looking forward to the weekends to get our "Chinese Hamburgers" from a street vendor across from our school and taking "sanluancha's" into town. I loved visiting the most beautiful parks and spending hours playing and rock-climbing there. I loved developing a better friendship with my cousin during the short time we were there. I loved going to our little shop on campus and buying popsicles and yogurt (things we literally survived off of!) and going to Weifang to visit our friends who ran a pirated DVD shop! I miss the food, the smells, and the rain of China. I miss being humbled and loved, I miss hearing a completely different language all the time, and I loved when Bryce and I spoke English and everyone shushed in awe to hear a different language. I miss being there most of all...

Thank you to all of you friends and family who supported me through that time. Those who knew me then and faithfully emailed me to keep me sane during those difficult times of China and cheered with me during the great memories! It will be an experience that I will never forget or regret!!!

PS If anyone is interested in checking out the company I went through check out China Horizons on my Links page!

Initiating a Blog!

2008-08-21T18:51:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to start a Blog! I know, it sounds totally lame, but I have a goal to keep a "journal" and I love to read my friends' blogs, so I decided to join the crowd and keep up with the times and pace of life!

A little introduction to me: My name is Samantha Wright and I grew up here in the Wasatch Front of Utah! I come from a great home and community and have a fantastic life! I currently work at Deseret First Credit Union first beginning as a teller and worked my way over to the loan side of banking. I've been in the financial industry for two and a half years and before that I taught English in Changle, Weifang Shandong China. I learned my real passion for work (haha..) at Nielsen's Frozen Custard where I scooped and flipped for three years! I love music and playing the piano, I love the Twilight Series, I hate snow, I love to eat ice, pickles, popcorn, and nuts. I love to play outside, mow the lawn, and I hate weeding. I like to travel and I want to be rich someday! I laugh a lot and love to be spontaneous and be happy! I have one sister, three brothers, two sisters-in-law and one brother in law. Lucky me, I'm the favorite Aunt to three nieces and two nephews! I have three calls in Church! I currently work as the YSA Rep in the ward, girls camp assistant director and Stake Primary Secretary. I'm kinda hoping I get released in the first two as the last one is brand new!

Enough about me for now! Ciao!