bree lena

Grammy's + Emily

2012-02-15T19:18:00.000-07:00

Just a shout out to my girls..

My lovely Emily got her engagement pictures taken! Congratulations Emily and Matt!! Here are a few of my favorites!

Valentine's Day Wish-List

2012-02-12T18:40:00.004-07:00

In my dreams: I would LOVE to be able to design/make/wear a formal gown out in the city to a restaurant or an event....the ONLY reason I wish I were famous is because I WANT TO BE ABLE TO WEAR FORMAL GOWNS!!!!! I am so jealous. This is a dream of mine. Wear a gorgeous gown to dinner with my Valentine and then come home, have home-made dessert (still dressed up) and then dance around the house...with candles and music... ah I am such a romantic.
My non-romantic side: Shopping spree at J.Crew (I just went through their website and somehow ended up with $2000 of clothes/shoes/jewelry in my wishlist..)
Currently, my ideal night would be: NOT doing homework, cuddling up on the couch to actually relax and fall asleep watching a movie with my sweetheart. With a nice warm blanket, guru's sweet potato fries, some chocolate (in any form-since it is snowing I wouldn't mind the hot liquid form) and maybe pass a couple love notes...
In reality: I'll be teaching Jazz in the a.m., then going to work, then going to class, then doing homework all evening. The library is my Valentine. Maybe I'll buy myself some chocolate covered cinnamon bears....

I'd be SO good at this holiday. Once I am married, my husband better watch out!! I love everything about LOVE so this holiday has my name written all over it. Showing people that I love them is literally my favorite thing. I love pampering those I love with goodies and kindness..

One day February 14th will be an amazing day. People hate this holiday but not me. I think it is wonderful. Yes we should show our love everyday but why not dedicate a day just to LOVE? I think it is perfect.

Pamper the ones you love this season!

xoxo

love.

2012-02-07T22:23:00.003-07:00

Marriage and Family reading assignment for this week..

Marriage and Divorce - President Spencer W. Kimball (speeches, 1976 (don't let the date fool you, it is all still VERY applicable!))

WONDERFUL talk. So many good topics discussed.

It's Valentines Day soon-read this with your sweetheart and see how you can make your marriage/relationship even better, filled with more happiness and love.

a couple quotes from the talk ...

Formula for a happy marriage:
*work hard
*be selfLESS
*keep courting/keep love alive
*live the commandments

" 'Soul mates' are fiction and an illusion; and while every young man and woman will seek with all diligence and prayerfullness to find a mate with whom life can be most compatible and beautiful, yet it is certain that almost any good man and any good woman can have happiness and a successful marriage if both are willing to pay the price." ((My teacher added- "Once you pick your partner, once you seal yourself to each other across the alter-they ARE the 'right one', they are then your soul mate"))

"Love is like a flower, and, like the body, it needs constant feeding ... And so love, also, cannot be expected to last forever unless it is continually fed with portions of love, the manifestation of esteem and admiration the expressions of gratitude, and the consideration of unselfishness."

a few more quotes (P.S. the Eternal Marriage manual is AMAZING-I recommend it (can be found at the BYU bookstore-and I'm sure-online..

"If one really loves another, one would rather die for that person than to injure him."-Elder Spencer W. Kimball

" ... the kind of respect that regards one's companion as the most precious friend on earth and not as a possession or a chattel to be forced or compelled to suit one's selfish whims ... This respect comes of recognition that each of us is a son or daughter of God, endowed with something of his divine nature, that each is an individual entitled to expression and cultivation of individual talents and deserving of forbearance, of patience, of understanding, of courtesy, of thoughtful consideration. True love is not so much a matter of romance as it is a matter of anxious concern for the well being of one's companion." -Elder Gordon B. Hinckley

"True love is a process. True love requires personal action. Love must be continuing to be real. Love takes time ... Love demands action if it is to be continuing ...." -Elder Marvin J. Ashton

"Be quick to say, 'I'm sorry.' As hard as it is to form the words, be swift to say, 'I apologize, and please forgive me,' even though you are not the one who is totally at fault. True love is developed by those who are willing to readily admit personal mistakes and offenses." -Elder Joe J. Chirstensen

"First and foremost, nothing except God Himself takes priority over your wife in your life-not work, not recreation, not hobbies ...." -President Ezra Taft Benson (here is a link to the entire talk 'To the Fathers in Israel')

"How Do I Love Thee?" -Elder Jeffrey R. Holland (another GREAT great talk!)

"... I believe that second only to your membership in the Church, your "membership in a marriage" is the most important association you will have in time and eternity..."

some notes from class...

(Journal entry) I love that we are talking about revelation right now because,like we discussed, it is a blurry topic. It is essential to know thatrevelation rarely gets you into an easy situation. Satan is there, heintervenes with revelation. Doubting and fearing are scaring things, and it ishard not to think of them as a “wrong answer” sign. It is important to rememberthat doubt and fear of from Satan and not God. Revelation will never come asfear. We also must remember that revelation does prompt us to do difficultthings.

We also learned the formula for distinguishing the Holy Ghost;

1. Test of Receptivity: How am I doing with keeping the commandments? How likely am I able to hear the Lord if He IS trying to tell me something? Am I fasting, praying, worshiping (church, meditation, temple)? How is my mental alertness? Am I serving? Do I ever have time where I am free from distractions (lust, anger, greed, noise, confusion, etc.) and available to listen?

2. Test of Bias: Do we ask for guidance to do God's will? or for approval of our will?

3. Test of Content: Is our revelation in line with what has been revealed to the prophets?

If the process is broken-we won't get revelation

Happy loving.

And remember..all the things you did to catch your sweetheart-you need to continue to do in order to hold on to them.

There is no "falling out of love." -Brother Dorius (my teacher)

autobiography

2012-02-06T13:18:00.000-07:00

My name is Bree LenaWoolstenhulme, I will be twenty-two this month and I spent the early years ofmy life in Commerce Twp. Michigan. When I was three my family moved fromOklahoma to Michigan and we lived there until I was ten. Growing up I spent mydays doing gymnastics, by the time my family moved to Utah I was in level eight(of ten.) Due to many injuries, one being too permanent and painful, I had toquit. I started competitively dancing when I was in junior high and did sothrough-out high school (at the same studio that my sister currently dancesat.) I was on my high school dance team and was the Sterling Scholar for Dance.Another major aspect of my life developed in high school, sewing. I realized mylove for designing and creating clothes, especially formal dresses. I designedand sewed almost all of my formal dance dresses as well as some for friends. Itbecame my passion. I decided when I was a junior that I wanted to go to schoolin Manhattan, The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), to study fashiondesign.

I graduated fromOrem High School in 2008 and was accepted to Brigham Young University. Idecided to start at BYU rather than heading straight to New York City becauseFIT had a one-year accelerated associate’s degree program that I was planningon applying for in the fall of 2008. In order to be accepted, I had to takemany liberal arts classes here at BYU that would transfer to FIT; I applied inNovember and received my acceptance letter in March. The application processwas intense and I was technically supposed to already have a degree in order todo the one-year program, but somehow I was one of fifty chosen for theaccelerated program and one of 250 who are accepted into the fashion designprogram out of 2700 applicants. God knew that is where I needed and wanted tobe. I completed Fall, Winter, and Summer semester here at BYU and while goingto school I worked at a retail boutique and started my own company headbandbusiness, selling on consignment to boutiques, on etsy.com, and through houseparties, to earn money for Manhattan.

The Fashion Designprogram was the hardest thing I have ever done, but it was amazing! I learnedso much, not only about fashion, designing, and sewing but about myself. It wasthe most rewarding and satisfying experience I have ever had and though I sleptan average of only five hours a night I would not have given up the experiencefor anything. I learned how to be independent and rely on my Savior. I met twoof my best friends that year at FIT, we all attended the same singles ward, andwe all live here in Utah now which is such a blessing. I graduated Magna Cum Laude from FIT with myAssociates Degree in Fashion Design in May 2010.

That summer I hadthe opportunity to do a Study Abroad with FIT to Paris and Milan. The purposewas to study the specialization of your choice, for me that was wedding gowns. Igot to travel the cities admiring wedding gowns and fashion-that was myhomework! It was during this program that I designed my first modest weddinggown collection. It was there that I decided that I wanted to design and createfashionable wedding dresses for our unique Latter-day Saint market (because weneed it badly!) I returned home for my brother’s wedding and continued makingheadbands before heading back to NYC for one last semester.

I was not quiteready to leave the city so I took a couple extra classes at FIT while working abouttwenty-five hours a week at J.Crew (J.Crew is my favorite company of all timeand if I decided to do fashion in the industry that is the only company I wouldwork for.) While I was living in NYC I also had the opportunity to intern withAvenia Bridal at the Fall 2009, Spring 2010, and Fall 2010 Bridal Market.

I moved homeChristmas of 2010 and started back at BYU Winter semester of 2011, a Bachelor’sDegree in Business Management was next on my agenda. Since I have been back inUtah I was hired at Avenia Bridal (who I interned for in NYC) as abridal/design consultant (seamstress when needed) and blogger. This summer Iwas asked by one of my best friends (one of the girls I met in NYC actually) ifI would make her wedding dress and I definitely agreed to it! It turned outperfectly and I cannot wait until I get the chance to make more.

During Summer semester I was hired as a Teacher’sAssistant for Jazz 131 here at BYU and starting Fall semester I began teachingJazz 131 and 231. I am on scholarship so I am required to take at leastfourteen credits and I work two jobs (ten to twenty hours a week at AveniaBridal and currently I am teaching three jazz classes) so I am extremely busy. Iam applying this semester for the Business School and will be graduating inApril 2014.

* I had to write this for my Marriage and Family class-so I thought I'd share.

weekend with the family

2012-02-05T19:10:00.001-07:00

Seth and Jenn were in town this week..so we had some fun.

Friday at 7 a.m. we all went to the temple. It was the first time my whole family went together, it was also the first time I had the opportunity to do family names. My mom did a little family history work and was able to find some of her ancestors who have not had their temple work done. It was such an amazing experience to be with my whole family at the temple and to perform baptismal ordinances for our family (including my mother's grandma, my great aunt (who I have inherited some amazing clothing/fur/jewelry from), and my mother's grandpa who Sy's middle name is named after (Emmett).)

We went to Magleby's after (the breakfast burrito is SUPER delicious, and so is their new french toast that comes with banana's and strawberries. Yum)

I then got my hour massage... lovely.

Seth, Jenn, Mom, and Dad were going bowling at BYU-so I decided to play 1 game before heading to the library.

After 5 hours in the library...

We went to watch Bain perform at her high school's basketball game.. she did good, they won.

I introduced Seth and Jenn to Guru's sweet potato fries!! AMAZING. Then we got a cup-shake and cake-bites from the Sweet Tooth Fairy.

After I caught up on my One Tree Hill watching (it is the only show I make time to watch-I was 2 episodes behind).....last season. depressing.

On Saturday I did homework, then went to work.

I bought myself an early Valentines/Birthday present. Michael Kors.

I'm in love

I got my Valentine's weekend date-for Saturday. with Bain. We are going up to SLC to watch Romeo and Juliet performed by Odyssey Dance Theater.

Then I hung out with Talyn and her friends (here is the picture I was talking about earlier)

meet Colby (Talyn's BF). He's tall, I'm not. haha. by a lot.

Now it is Sunday. and we are currently watching Madonna ROCK the halftime show. and eating. lots of food! yummy!!

AMAZING fruit dip, Vernors (a Detroit favorite), Mama Gwen's Salsa, Veggie plate, our famous Rice Crispy Treats, Jenn's 7 layer dip and guacamole.

Little sausages, wings, and ribs.

Chocolate Brownie Trifle

and to end this post... two outfits.

Outfit 1: Thursday (school)

Sequin shirt, cardigan, and shoes: J.Crew

Pants: Banana Republic

Earrings: Nordstrom

Outfit 2: Saturday (work and play)

All J.Crew

and here is another picture of my gorgeous watch

and a little spiritual quote since it is Sunday-
(my mom found it floating around FB)

dang straight!

(I will add woman OR MAN to this quote)

...

2012-02-04T12:02:00.002-07:00

I actually enjoy doing my Econ and Finance homework..

Maybe it's because it makes me feel smart.

Hopefully I continue to feel this way all semester!

love my siblings..

2012-02-03T18:12:00.000-07:00

Sy is legit-he is on a huge poster at OHS.

Bain is awesome too...

Just Jenna..and J.Crew

2012-02-02T11:07:00.003-07:00

perfect.

inspiration.

(p.s. the J.Crew February catalog is GORGEOUS! so bright and colorful)

love. love. love.

gorgeous colors!!!

I want every color-trying to decide which to get for my bday

love button-ups. love these bright colors. and the new model

sequin top, bright pants, stripes, heels, cardigan.

love the necklace and the stripes

sleeved dress, veil with a swim suit. suit jacket and shorts.

one word: adorable.

cutest shoes EVER

The site I got all these pictures off..
a) did not have good resolution
b) did not post the most important section-menswear. lame.

Scored again J.Crew
(p.s. please let me design/work for you)

Marraige and Family-Jan 31

2012-02-01T13:58:00.001-07:00

I have to write a journal as an assignment in Marriage and Family ... maybe I'll start posting them here. I love this class. It is, so far, the most inspiration-filled religion class I have taken at BYU. It is so personal and modern and essential for everyone. (I recommend my teacher as well, Brother Dorius.)

Excerpts from my Class Notes:

Baseline revelations.

We all receive revelation on the one we will marry … if itdoesn’t seem like we are receiving answers … we are-they just may not seem likeit because they are “no-brainer” revelations. When searching for a spouse thereare 6 things that we should look for-and if the girl/guy have these things …then God is pleased. That is the revelation.

Prayerful

If you report to Heavenly Father daily then youtend to be more humble and grateful

Loves the Scriptures

Feasting upon scriptures opens up the doorway toHeaven, its revelatory power

Observes the Sabbath Day/Church activity

(church callings/duties in general); e.g.,callings (without complaint), temple attendance, serving (gratefully andcheerfully.)

Nice dress and grooming

Represent the Lord, look the part

Thoughtful and loving towards family

(but also willing/able to create own family, cut offthe umbilical cord when needed)

Keeps the commandments

Remember, “You are not desperate.”

Revelation is not an event, it’s a process-it is not linear,God is non-linear, He is infinite. He answers in a process of living ratherthan by a single event.

Satan makes war with the Saints. Once you make the decisionto head to the Temple of the Lord, Satan tries ten-fold to get you to back downand say it’s too hard, it’s not right. Doubt and fear are of Satan. My teachersaid, “Once the potential starts, all hell breaks loose.” (I think he meantliterally!)

If you’ve felt good once, if you’ve made the decision thereis no need to doubt, IT IS RIGHT, Satan is just in the way. The revelationalready came. Remember the revelation. D&C 6:14-24, it is applicable to usnow … so key excerpts

:14 “… as often as thou hast inquired thou has receivedinstruction of my Spirit. If it had not been so, THOU WOULDST NOT HAVE COME TOTHIS PLACE WHERER THOU ART AT THIS TIME.” –Remember revelation. The Lord is onyour side.

:20 “… Be faithful and diligent in keeping the commandmentsof God, and I will encircle thee in the arms of my love.” –I LOVE thosepromises, the simple promise of comfort that at times is SO essential forliving

:23 “Did I not speak peace to your mind concerning thematter? What greater witness can you have than from God?” –Feelings of trust,respect, hope, peace are of God, they are revelations. Remember them and listencarefully

My Thoughts/Journal Entry:

It comforts me to know that sometimes it is simplerthan we try to make it seem. God wants us to be happy; Satan wants to bring usdown. I love the idea of a revelation process rather than an event, it is justhard when we’ve been taught our whole life to "ask of God and do His will"because it almost makes it seem like we should expect a direct answer-and yes, attimes we do, but other times if we are doing what is right-that is our answer.We don’t always need to look deeper. God is in every decision but He doesn’t desireto be the one making every decision. Come to God, inquire of Him, trust in Him, listen for His promptings-but do your best, keep the commandments and you'll be on the right track. Remember revelation.

My professor also shared a story of a girl who was putting of getting married, she had been dating this guy for years (both waited for each other on missions), she knew she should marry him ... she just said "I'm not ready to give up having fun yet." To which my professor replied...“Fun begins with marriage!” (Which I believe 100%!!!)

FYI: GREAT scripture-Mosiah Chapter 4 (it's even a link, just click on it!) It is FULL of good things. (especially vs. 6-7, 9, 11-12, 19-21)

Well ... now I am done with the fun homework. On to Econ and MCOM for the rest of the night. 2-12 holla!! (I will take an hour nap break hopefully and quickly stop by Talyn and Emily's place for some fondue-gotta live a little sometimes right?)

a weeks worth of ideas-thoughts-etc..

2012-02-01T10:38:00.002-07:00

Well I have a little time to catch up.. I finished my exam earlier than I thought I would (MCOM 320 grammar exam, got a 79% woohoo!! It was a rough test, so I am proud) and am home in sweats in my bed before 10 p.m. I cannot honestly remember the last time I've been able to do that. Good thing too because I am so exhausted and it is only Monday... Tonight's plan, bed by 11 (got to make this a fast post), wake up at 7.. finally 8 hours of sleep!!!

This will be a random post of recent thoughts and activities...

Gorgeous picture of the Manhattan Temple, now my background on my computer. LOVE it!!

I love church.
-"Scriptures are intended to be a help-it's not an assignment, it's an opportunity to receive help each day."
-"Your mind is powerful-your belief has huge physical power and affect on your body. Your attitude is powerful. Believe in yourself, believe in your spirituality. Let yourself believe you can."
-"Pray like everything depends on Heavenly Father-work like everything depends on you."
-"You have to prepare to be changeable."
-"If we do good things-good things are returned to us."
-"God is amazing, He so greatly knows our needs."

I got my first..."How are you? You look tired." Crap.. it was a Sunday, I slept in...and it's only the 3rd week of school. ouch. haha.

But I also got my first, "Wow, you're happy!" -From Bain tonight haha, I'll take what I can get.

Here are some outfits from the past week..

Outfit 1 (Saturday/Work)

All J.Crew

Necklace: Street in NYC

Outfit 2 (School)

Vest/Pants: J.Crew

Sweater: Gap

Boots: Steve Madden (Nordstrom)

Earrings: Nordstrom

Outfit 3 (Church)

Sweater/Tights/Bracelets: J.Crew

Skirt: Banana Republic

Shoes: Target

Earrings: Nordstrom

Bain had to take some pictures for her photography class..

This weekend was fun-I've started hanging out with Talyn and her friends, they are super fun. I am waiting on the best picture ever!! haha-hopefully I'll get it soon. You'll see why it's awesome... as soon as I post it. We tried to play miniature golf but it was really busy so we went to Talyn's house and made cookies and watched a movie. (Last weekend, which I have pictures from, we went ice skating (no pictures) on Friday, then on Saturday we went to the BYU men's Volleyball game then played poker.. (Talyn won, I came in second! Holla!! (granted I did have quite a bit of help.. I've never played before haha))

Colby, Talyn, Corey, Cory, Adrian, and me

On Saturday I took Taylor out for his Birthday Breakfast at Magleby's-yummy!! YAYAY Happy TWENTY-SECOND Birthday Tay!!!!!! (here is his lovely (if I do say so myself) birthday present)

Then we went to the library to study.... Later I had work, then I met up with Emily for dinner and dessert (I highly recommend the Sweet Tooth Fairy's red velvet cup-shake and their salted caramel cake bites-HEAVENLY!!!)

Well it is now 10:50pm, I need to go to bed-I'll hopefully finish this tomorrow..

Now is it 4:20 on Tuesday. I just finished an assignment and don't want to start on my next one when I have to leave in 20 minutes to head to my next class... even though I should start it........ I will write a little more instead.

A smart friend was talking to me about my future, what my plans are.. I guess I've always wanted to do so many things with life but I've never set anything in stone (probably because I always expected to get married before I graduate college (in 2 years (I'll be 24 years old)) and by then... I kind of have to follow my husband around and figure it out then depending on where I end up).. Well.. enough of that-I'll make my plan anyway and then adjust if I need to. So... here it is

1) While finishing up at BYU-build my portfolio by sketching, sewing, designing, and making custom dresses. Look for internship with J.Crew for possibly next summer...get married (I REALLY don't want to move back to NYC single... eh.. I saw way too many sad lonely single adults and I DON'T want to be one of them)

2) Once graduated, move to NYC, get a job at J.Crew-in their design department (or anything corporate to work my way up)-make contacts, understand the industry better, gain experience...

3) After a few years (have little children) - possibly stop working at J.Crew (unless I take Tom Mora's place as wedding designer or I'm the new Jenna Lyons! ha) so I can be at home with the kiddos.. Start my own wedding dress line (have enough $ to hire people to do the hard stuff..haha I'll just design at home, pick fabrics, and enjoy life! (...super unrealistic but that would be ideal...)

4) Once I have had enough of that I can move on to wedding designing. By then I will have a big name, expereince, and clients...I can chose when I work and how often I work

5) Retire and travel the world with my husband and (grown) children

It is SUPER important to me to be at home with the kids though... That is something I have always been grateful for. I don't want a Nanny, I want my kids to know their parents...so.. this will only be my plan if it is possible to be home as much as possible so I can raise and be a mother to my children.

And that is my plan.

I read an AMAZING talk recently. Like AMAZING. It is short and absolutely wonderful! PLEASE read.

It Is Better to Look Up-Carl B. Cook

Now it is Wednesday at 10:00am. I got 5 hours of sleep last night... It stinks when you are up late doing homework that is due...especially when there was no time to do it earlier-it's not like you procrastinated... there is just way too much to do. WAY TOO MUCH this semester. I am so overwhelmed. I had my first minor breakdown of "crap, there is just NOT enough time for me to get everything done and STILL sleep." But I'll survive. Somehow I always do. I normally take the Jazz 331 class right now but instead I am using this time to catch up on personal things before my long day starts.

So..here are some of my favorite quotes from the talk mentioned above-they'll help lighten the mood and make me remember how important it is to take time everyday, no matter HOW busy or stressed I am, to remember God, to study His words and pray to Him. He helps!

-“Believe in God; believe that he is … ; believe that he has all wisdom, and all power, both in heaven and in earth.”

-Rely on the Lord for strength

-"...exercise our faith and look to God for help, we will not be overwhelmed with the burdens of life. We will not feel incapable of doing what we are called to do or need to do. We will be strengthened, and our lives will be filled with peace and joy. We will come to realize that most of what we worry about is not of eternal significance—and if it is, the Lord will help us. But we must have the faith to look up and the courage to follow His direction."

-"As we remember Him and trust in His power, we receive strength through His Atonement. It is the means whereby we can be relieved of our anxieties, our burdens, and our suffering. It is the means whereby we can be forgiven and healed from the pain of our sins. It is the means whereby we can receive the faith and strength to endure all things."

-"We must look up and step up. And as we do, I know we will cheer up, for God wants us to be happy."

-"We are Heavenly Father’s children. He wants to be a part of our lives, to bless us, and to help us. He will heal our wounds, dry our tears, and help us along our path to return to His presence. As we look to Him, He will lead us."

And a scripture from Mosiah. Be thankful. Chapter 2:20-21

20 I say unto you, my brethren, that if you should render all the thanks and praise which your whole soul has power to possess, to that God who has created you, and has kept and preserved you, and has caused that ye should rejoice, and has granted that ye should live in peace one with another—

21 I say unto you that if ye should serve him who has created you from the beginning, and is preserving you from day to day, by lending you breath, that ye may live and move and do according to your own will, and even supporting you from one moment to another—I say, if ye should serve him with all your whole souls yet ye would be unprofitable servants.

Seth and Jenn came into town on Sunday!! Yay! They are here for a whole week. I don't think I'll get to see them much but it is nice that they are here!

and there it is... the long post. Completed Wednesday at 10:30am

busy busy busy

2012-01-29T22:08:00.004-07:00

It was a long hard week...

This week will be as well

I'll post when I can

I hate when I don't have time to write down my thoughts and feelings...

Hopefully more to come soon

Feast Upon His Love

2012-01-23T13:25:00.000-07:00

Jacob 3:1-2

"...Look unto God with firmness of mind, and pray unto him with exceeding faith, and he will console you in your afflictions, and he will plead your cause, and send down justice upon those who seek your destruction...lift up your heads and receive the pleasing word of God, and feast upon his love; for ye may, if your minds are firm, forever."

Excerpt from the For the Strength of Youth booklet

"To help you become all that the Lord wants you to become, get on your knees each day and express to Him the desires of your heart. He is the source of all wisdom, and you need His help. He will hear and answer you...the Lord will make much more out of your life than you can by yourself. He will increase your opportunities, expand your vision, and strengthen you. He will give you the help you need to meet your trials and challenges. You will find true joy as you come to know your Father in Heaven and His Son, Jesus Christ, and feel their love for you."

a few things..

2012-01-20T19:30:00.002-07:00

1. Sorry for the non existent outfit posts (I'm sure no one really cares, I don't take cute pictures or anything..) but here are the reasons they have been lacking

I lost all creativity in outfit picking lately-no desire to search through my clothes and mind for cute ideas
I have to be to school at 7:30am.. for dance class
It's too early to care or try to think
I just want to crawl back into bed so I go to the most comfy options I have
I am chronically freezing all the time so I choose the warmest clothes I can find and layer them all on (and I only wear boots-no bare feet/legs anywhere
I've lost a lot of weight lately (not on purpose) so I only have a few pairs of pants that fit (which limit my options to: white jeans, regular jeans (3 pairs-2 have patched holes in the crotch so I limit myself to wearing those only when necessary), and 2 legging-ish pants (my dark grey pixie pants and a light grey pair) and I get way too cold to wear skirts/dresses except for at church or maybe work....
So... I wish I picked out cute creative outfits like this... (gorgeous Rachel - Pink Peonies)

But instead I go with the warmest and comfiest (is that a word?)... like this.

Outfit 1:
Chambrey shirt, jacket, pants, boots: J.Crew/(Sperry Top-Sider)
Sequin sweatshirt: Target

Outfit 2:
Cashmere sweater, cardigan, earrings: J.Crew
Jeans: Hudson
Boots: Steve Madden

Outfit 3:
Shirt, cardigan: J.Crew
Jeans: Hudson
Boots: Sperry Top-Sider

my floor..notice the trend in colors.. haha

2. This week I've been able to see many of my friends and spend time with people I love (which sadly doesn't happen much while I'm in school)

Monday night my dad, mom, Bain, her friend Liz, and I went to the UVU basketball game then went out for crepes
Wednesday I got to see an old friend from NYC who was in town recruiting BYU students for her job. We met at the BYU creamery (which I sadly haven't even been to as a student here. I got Butter Pecan ice cream and it was delicious.) It's amazing how connected you feel to people who may not be your closest friends but it feels that way due to similar experiences. It was SO fun to catch up! (it made me miss NYC, but it also reminded me how grateful I am for the experience and opportunity I had to live there and meet so many amazing and influential people.)
Tonight I get to see my dear Talyn! A big group of her friends are going ice skating tonight and they invited me to join-I've never gone out with them before, it should be fun. Plus it will be great to spend time with Talyn!
Tomorrow I get to hang out with my other besties Emily and Katie (we haven't all been together for about 3 months)-so it is a much needed and exciting reunion.

3. School is getting overwhelming. I am here on campus from 7:30 to at least 9 or later every night. 2 tests next week...let the fun begin!

4. My scripture theme for the year, 2 Nephi 31:20 "... ye must press forward with a steadfastness in Christ, having a perfect brightness of hope and love of God and of all men. Wherefore, if ye shall press forward, feasting upon the word of Christ and endure to the end, behold, thus saith the Father: Ye shall have eternal life."

5. And something to always remember, 2 Nephi 32:3,5 "...feast upon the words of Christ; for behold, the words of Christ will tell you all things what ye should do...enter in by the way, and receive the Holy Ghost, it will show unto you all things what ye should do.

6. This week I have come to recognize the need for Heavenly Father in my life. I was talking to Taylor about how one week you can be so determined to fight off Satan-with such a desire to do good and be happy-then all the sudden drop so low and just want to disappear-like it's not worth it to fight anymore because Satan is too strong... He responded with an insight I hadn't considered before, he said that when we feel good it is God's pure love, He is there telling us that we are forgiven, that He is here for us to lift us up and help us fight off Satan...but after He shows that He is there, once we feel His love and comfort, He lets us try again on our own, so we can learn to fight Satan off.

Taylor related it to a test, teachers help prepare you-they give you study guides and lectures to aid you but...you have to take the test alone, they won't be there giving you the answers. Which is what God is doing-He will give us the tools but ultimately we also have to learn to fight Satan off or we'll never win.

After Taylor told me that, I came to my Heavenly Father and begged Him to come back because I wasn't strong enough yet-I still needed His help, His strength...the second my prayer was over I literally felt His arms back around me, supporting me. I know I'll need to do it on my own again, but with God's strength aiding me now, I know that next time I will be strong, probably not strong enough...but stronger.

The bottom line is...we need God. The talk I referenced yesterday "You Matter to Him" President Uchtdorf reminds us "that man is nothing...always retain in remembrance, the greatness of God, and your own nothingness...man is nothing; yet we are EVERYTHING to God...you are not invisible to your Heavenly Father. He loves you." The other talk that I referenced yesterday "His Grace is Sufficient" also re-emphasizes this principle, that God makes up the difference.

7. Some gorgeous pictures of my co-worker/model Ashley in one of our Avenia gowns!! Check out the full shoot here!

LOVE the scarf with the wedding dress! and her HAIR!

two feel good talks. worth reading.

2012-01-19T21:58:00.001-07:00

You Matter to Him - President Uchtdorf

"Man is nothing; yet we are everything to God."

"What you see and experience now is not what forever will be. You will not feel loneliness, sorrow, pain, or discouragement forever...He will neither forget nor forsake those who incline their hearts to Him. Have hope and faith in that promise."

"the most powerful Being in the universe is the Father of your spirit. He know you. He loves you with a perfect love...He sees you as the being you are capable and designed to become. He wants you to know that you matter to Him."

WOW.

okay, and I know I have recommended a lot of talks lately.
BUT SERIOUSLY PLEASE PLEASE READ THIS ONE!!
It is truly what everyone, no matter what circumstance, can always be reminded of.

His Grace is Sufficient - Brad Wilcox (currently in the Winter 2012 BYU magazine)

White Blank Page

2012-01-18T19:53:00.001-07:00

Thank you Jen who brought this song into my life. It is AMAZING!

(I take her 331 Jazz class here at BYU and we are doing a dance to it right now-I am substituting her class while she is off being AMAZING in California doing a show-so I have just been listening to this song constantly ever since)

My two favorite lines...
"Tell me now where was my fault, in loving you with my whole heart?"
and
"Lead me to the truth and I will follow you with my whole life"

ENJOY

it is perfection.

his voice.

his passion.

it is so beautiful!

and because I love Taylor Swift

now-back to business finance homework.

perfect.

2012-01-18T18:06:00.001-07:00

It's amazing what perfect timing the Lord has.. my "talk of the day" was Counsel to Youth by President Packer. Just what I needed. READ IT! It's wonderful.

"He [Lucifer] is determined to disrupt our Heavenly Father's plan and seeks to control the minds and actions of all...But despite the opposition, trials, and temptations, you need not fail or fear."

"Every living soul who has a physical body ultimately has power over the adversary. You suffer temptations because of your physical nature, but you also have power over him and his angels."

"The gift of the Holy Ghost, if you consent, will guide and protect you and even correct your actions."

"If the adversary should take you prisoner due to misconduct, I remind you that you hold the key that will unlock the prison door from the inside. you can be washed clean through the atoning sacrifice of the Savior Jesus Christ."

"Only repentance can heal what hurts."

"You are never far from the sight of your loving Heavenly Father."

"I testify that the outcome of this battle that began in the premortal life is not in question. LUCIFER WILL LOSE!!!!!!!" (emphasis added)

"You must learn to 'trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.'"

"..You will be watched over and protected and you yourself will know by the promptings of the Holy Ghost which way to go, for 'by the power of the Holy Ghost ye may know the truth of all things.'"

and here are some of my favorite pictures floating around pinterest..

literally the most gorgeous dress/photo. PERFECT.

Again.. UNREAL!! The dress is flawless-LOVE

the SKIRT of this gown. WOW. I want it.

so me. I am in love.

So there.. some spiritual and some fashion inspiration (I am pretty much only inspired by J.Crew and evening/wedding gowns... and gold, and anything sparkly, and stunning jewelry... yep)

random thoughts/feelings/etc..

2012-01-17T20:30:00.002-07:00

Personal Revelation and Testimony - Barbara Thompson

"The Holy Ghost satisfies and fills up every longing of the human heart, and fills up every vacuum."

"As you appropriately seek for and apply unto the spirit of revelation, I promise you will 'walk in the light of the Lord'...the light it provides will illuminate and enlarge your soul, enlighten your understanding, and direct and protect you and your family."

"The Lord desires to bless us with guidance, wisdom, and direction in our lives. He desires to pour down His Spirit upon us."

I LOVE my Marriage and Family class by Brother Dorius-EVERYONE at BYU should take it!!! (and it's only the second day!)

This was especially applicable to me..

The Joy of Living the Great Plan of Happiness - Elder Scott

How can you receive the greatest happiness and blessings from this earth experience?

Learn the doctrinal foundation of the great plan of happiness by studying the scriptures, pondering their content, and praying to understand them. Carefully study and use the proclamation of the First Presidency and the Twelve on the family.It was inspired of the Lord.
Listen to the voice of current and past prophets. Their declarations are inspired. You may verify that counsel in your own mind and heart by praying about it as it applies to your special circumstances. Ask the Lord to confirm your choices and accept accountability for them.
Obey the inner feelings that come as promptings from the Holy Ghost. Those feelings are engendered by your righteous thoughts and acts and your determination to seek the will of the Lord and to live it.
When needed, seek counsel and guidance from parents and your priesthood leaders.

Don't be afraid to act on the feelings and promptings you receive. I know it's scary but, they are from God, they are what God is telling you to do in order for you to receive his fullest blessings.

I challenge everyone to write in a journal. I was SO overwhelmed by this challenge when my therapist told me to.. but it has been such a learning experience for me. It takes a while to start but... don't worry about catching up on the past-I tried, and failed. Just write. Write your unedited feelings, your thoughts. Whatever comes to you, anything and everything. 1 line or a whole page. The good and the bad. You would not believe how many things you find out about yourself. It is really amazing. (if you add constant prayer, reading the Book of Mormon, and reading conference talks to it, the Lord will be closer to you and I promise revelation will come (even if its not what you necessarily want to hear.))

a few things I've learned about myself (and life..and it's been less than a week of writing in it)

I am scared of the unknown (hence the theme of this year-FEARLESS)
My favorite word is WHY? (I literally wrote a whole page asking WHY questions)
Sometimes I just need to lay in a ball on my floor crying-it helps
I've seen steady patterns in my life (good and bad)
I know better what makes me feel sad
I also know better what makes me feel good
Sometimes I don't want to wake up and get out of bed... and that's okay (for a little bit)
I need to "come what may and love it"
Anger is a choice (I have a hard time controlling my emotions, I forgive very easily but I am quick to take offense and be hurt)
The devil is REAL, he is sadly in my life WAY more than I would like, realize what tools he uses against you.. you only will by writing them down.. they again are a pattern
Life is painful, it is meant for mistakes BUT it will be worth it
Satan will always try to convince us that our righteous thoughts and desires are wrong
"He makes me mad" is a false statement (still haven't learned how to break that habit..but I am really good at letting other people effect me)
and the big one that I have been pelted with on 3 occasions (talk I read on Sunday, Relief Society lesson, and today in Marriage and Family class) and it finally stuck and made sense... I AM SELFISH. SO selfish. (and that is a crappy realization..it's sad when you don't really realize it to..)
Satan wants me miserable (and sadly he has succeeded, I've let him win)
Satan uses fear, deception, doubt and even logic-BEWARE (this is hard for me, I believe it...but how do you go through life not fearing and doubting.. If you are seeking an answer from God, how does He tell you it's wrong if it's not be having a doubt) UGh... so frustrating
When you keep the commandments YOU RECEIVE BLESSINGS
I'm super bad at REMEMBERING..(which is why that word is stated in the Book of Mormon over 160 times)

I'll save the more personal thoughts and realizations that hang on to most of those bullet points for my own journal.

Please start on yourself (and future self when you read this, if you've stopped...start again!) Don't even necessarily just write about your day... write you intimate thoughts-it feels good to get them down on paper.

(sorry, another post without pictures..)

probably too personal..

2012-01-16T12:33:00.001-07:00

I've been debating whether to share this with the blog world... but I feel like it will make things make more sense for everyone. Plus-my word for the year is FEARLESS... so here it goes.

-I am suffering with depression. I have been for a long long time, I just didn't realize exactly what it was or what my sadness meant until now. It is really hard to admit that, to realize that you are one of those unhappy people that people don't want to be around.. so. I am trying to overcome it now, to fight with God for joy and happiness. To fight this battle of negativity and depression against Satan. It is hard. and miserable. haha... but I know that my Heavenly Father loves me and that he has a plan for me. He knows what I need in my life to provide happiness and strength and I have faith that with my patience and on His time I will overcome this depression. I know He will provide a clear path for me, a path to happiness. ((It's amazing how much harder everything gets when you are trying to do the right things...but I also know that I have felt God's loving arms around me so much these past few weeks-it's a war-it's not easy. But I know I can win as long as I have the Lord on my side.

and...

-Taylor and I decided to break up.

This is how I've welcomed in 2012...
I can only hope that it goes up from here.

weekend.

2012-01-15T11:13:00.000-07:00

Friday:

Jazz Class

Temple

Homework

One Tree Hill

Brother/Sister Swap.

(Sy and his friend Brennan thought it'd be fun to take each others older sister out, it was fun, I don't know the last time I've hung out with my brother-sad huh?)

MI2 and crepes!

(best crepes EVER- ME Crepes, Alpine Village)

Saturday:

9:30am-8:30pm.

Bridal Show at The Grand America

White Collar

Sleep!

my college timeline.

2012-01-15T11:00:00.003-07:00

BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY

Summer 2008
(worked 15-20 hrs/week at Kaleidoscope)

Fall Semester 2008
-Ballet Technique 3
-Healthy Living
-1st-Year Italian, Part 1 (for a FIT study abroad that I ended up not doing)
-Introduction to Calculus
-The Book of Mormon (1st half)
-Intermed Clothing Construction
---SEM HR ERN 16.00

Winter Semester 2009
-Principles of Biology
-Jazz Dance Technique 2 (Advanced)
-Ballet Technique 3
-Introduction to the Humanities
-The Book of Mormon (2nd half)
-Introductory Sociology
---SEM HR ERN 15.00

Summer Term 2009
-Introduction to Art History
-World Civilization Since 1500 (Art History)
---SEM HR ERN 6.00
(worked 20-30 hrs/week at Kaleidoscope/aBree Original-headbands)

The FASHION INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY

Fall Semester 2009
-LIFE DRAWING (nude people...)
-APPAREL DSGN/STRUCTURED SILHOUTTES (draping coats/jackets)
-APPAREL DSGN/SOFT SILHOUETTES (draping dresses/skirts)
-FLAT PATTERN DESIGN I
-SEWING TECHNIQUES I
-FASHION ART & DESIGN 1-YEAR (fashion drawing)
-INTRODUCTION TO COMP DESIGN (Photoshop and Illustrator)
---SEM HR ERN 17.5

(during Christmas break - aBree Original-headbands)

Winter Semester 2010
-FACES & PLACES IN FASHION
-DRAPING IV:ADVANCED TECHNIQUES
-FLAT PATTERN DESIGN II
-APPAREL PRODUCT DATA MGMT (computer program-PDM)
-MODEL DRAWING I FOR FASH DSGN (clothed models)
-FASHION ART & DESIGN IV (fashion drawing)
-DIGITAL FLATS AND SPECS (computer program)
-INTRO TEXTILE FOR FASH DSGN
---SEM HR ERN 14.5

Summer Semester 2010
-COMPARATIVE INTERNATIONAL APPAREL (Study Abroad: NYC, Paris, Milan)
---SEM HR ERN 3.00

(during summer break - aBree Original-headbands)

Fall Semester 2010 (somehow I don't know where my transcript is for these classes)
-Textile Lace and Technology
-Professional Speech Communication
---SEM HR ERN 4.5
(worked 20-30 hrs/week at J.Crew Columbus Circle)

BRIGHAM YOUNG UNIVERSITY

Winter Semester 2011
-Principles of Accounting
-Social/Cultural Anthropology
-Ballet Technique 4 (Advanced)
-U S Through 1877 (History)
-Spreadsheet Skills (Excel)
-Computer Presentation Skills (PowerPoint)
-The New Testament
-Jazz Dance Technique 2 (Audit)
---SEM HR ERN 14.50

Spring/Summer 2011
(started working 20-30 hrs/week at Avenia Bridal in April)
(TA beginning Jazz Summer semester)

Fall Semester 2011
-Entrepreneurship Lect Series
-Intro to Mgt Info Systems (ISYS 201-computer programs/html)
-Physical Science
-The Doctrine & Covenants (2nd half)
-Human Development
-Principles of Statistics
---SEM HR ERN 15.00
(worked 20 hours a week at Avenia Bridal)
(taught Intermediate Jazz at BYU)
(made first aBree Original Wedding Gown)

CURRENT ENROLLMENT
Winter Semester 2012

-World Civilization to 1500 (Art History)
-Financial Management (BUSM 301)
-Econ Principles & Problems
-Commun in Organiztnl Settings (MCOM 320-business writing)
-LDS Marriage & Family
---SEM HR ERN 14.00
(working <15 hours a week at Avenia Bridal)
(teaching 2 beginning Jazz and 1 Intermediate Jazz at BYU)

----------------------------------------------------------

TRANSFER CREDITS ACCEPTED

ADVANCED PLACEMENT

ENGLISH LANGUAGE & COMPOSITION Score = 3
AP 100R AP Credit 3.00 P
ENGL 115 College Writing & Reading 3.00 P

PSYCHOLOGY 85 Score = 5
PSYCH 111 General Psychology 3.00 P

-AP HR ERN 9.00 HR GRD 0.00

---------------------------------------------------------

TOT HR ERN 110.50
GPA 3.71

THAT IS A LOT OF SCHOOL!! over 100 hours

You'd think I'd be graduating soon....
nope. 2 more years.

See why I am burnt out?? 46 classes: 17 A, 12 A-, 7 B+, 3 B, 2 B-, 2 pass, for the 2 classes for FALL 2010 I don't know where my grades are, and 1 audit.

AND why I hate that I still have 2 generals left (1 more after this semester). Ya... FIT and BYU don't mix well. NOTHING transferred from FIT, and BYU has a completely different set of generals than the Liberal Art classes that I needed so that I could be accepted to the FIT's accelerated Associates Degree program... Thank you BYU and FIT. I have taken more classes in humanities and art history than I have in dance or business... I might as well change my major.

...

2012-01-11T18:42:00.001-07:00

Well... I don't really know where to start.

School is fine.
I love teaching my dancers.
It has been AMAZING taking class from Jen again.
and.... life has been a little difficult lately.

On the up-side, I am re-committing myself to my Savior
SO.. heads up, this blog may turn into my little inspiration/spiritual release for a little while.

Recently I read a talk "The Power of the Scripture" by Richard G. Scott, and it brought me much comfort. I have started reading the Book of Mormon daily, multiple times daily. The blessings are real. Here are a few of my favorite quotes:

" Scriptures are like packets of light that illuminate our minds and give place to guidance and inspiration from on high. They can become the key to open the channel to communion with our Father in Heaven.."

"Scriptures can calm an agitated soul, giving peace, hope, and a restoration of confidence in one's ability to overcome the challenges of life. They have potent power to heal emotional challenges when there is faith in the Savior. They can accelerate physical healing."

"Trust in the Lord with all heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all they ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct they paths. Be not wise in thine own eyes: fear the Lord, and depart from evil..." (Proverbs 3:5-7, i believe)

I am also taking a Marriage and Family class here at BYU, cliche, I know...but you know me and love/weddings/marriage..etc. It's kind of my thing. If I could major in all things "Wedding" I would. Anyways, we are assigned many talks and I just read one by President Hinckley titled, "What God Hath Joined Together." There was an amazing story about a single mother who had 7 children all crying out for her one evening, she said:

"I remember looking through tears toward the sky, and I said, 'O my Father, I just can't do it tonight. I'm too tired. I can't face it. I can't go home and take care of all those children alone. Could I just come to You and stay with You for just one night? I'll come back in the morning. "

"I didn't really hear the works of reply, but I heard them in my mind. The answer was, 'No, little one, you can't come to me now. You would never wish to come back. But I can come to you."

-AMAZING. For so many reasons. 1. If we saw Heaven, we'd never return here. It is amazing there and just remembering that is enough to recommit myself daily to live better and be better, to make it my NUMBER ONE priority to return there, to Heaven with my Heavenly Father. and 2. We just need to ask, God wants to come help, and he does!! He will come to us. THAT is simply a beautiful concept.

Well..that is my spiritual overload for the day. I hope that maybe it was what someone needed to hear-it sure helped me today.

God is on our side.

School: Day 1 and 2

2012-01-06T22:17:00.002-07:00

My two outfits this week (Wednesday and Thursday, I don't have class on Friday)

Day 1:

Shirt, Vest, Belt: J.Crew

Jeans: Hudson

Boots: Steve Madden via Nordstrom

Day 2:

Shirt, Sweater: J.Crew

Jeans: Hudson

(yes I still wear white jeans even though it's winter)

Boots: Sperry Top-Siders via J.Crew

I'm still trying to get things worked out in my schedule but it seems like it will be a hard long semester. I finally got to dance today for the first time in like 9 months (teaching dance doesn't really count as dancing) and it felt SO SO SO incredibly good. I am out of dancing shape that is for sure and I will be extremely sore tomorrow but it was WORTH IT in every way. Today was also a good day because I got my massage (by Amber at Remedez) and that always helps me feel better!

simply perfect.

2012-01-06T21:58:00.000-07:00

David Archuleta

"I'm Trying To Be Like Jesus"

Happy Birthday

2012-01-05T15:20:00.002-07:00

Mrs. Katie Sarah Agle Lifferth

(she is currently celebrating with her hubby in Disney World)

((honeymoon/birthday))

I love you sweet Katie. Happy 21 years!!

Winter Semester

2012-01-03T20:34:00.001-07:00

The time has come, back to school.

I get to start my days bright and early, 7:30 on Monday and Wednesday (teaching Jazz), and 8 on Tuesday and Thursday (teaching Jazz). Good news is I don't teach or have class or work on Friday!! (which means I will hopefully be able to take the Advanced Jazz class at 9 (one of my favorite teachers, Jen, is teaching this semester!))

My classes this semester are:

BUS M 301-Financial Management

M COM 320- Communication in Organizational Settings

Econ 110

Rel C234- LDS Marriage and Family

Arthc201- Art History World Civilization to 1500

and I am teaching:

2 beginning Jazz classes and 1 intermediate Jazz class

---------------------------

As my sister and I were cleaning/organizing our rooms during the break we came across something that we thought was awesome! haha

Our combined collection of J.Crew button-ups

and our combined collection of Sperry Top-Siders

-------------------------------

I have a new addiciton. Which is not good now that school is starting...Talyn introduced it to me a while ago, it's on instant watch on Netflix now and.... yesterday I watched way too many episodes when I should have been doing so many other things. It is so good because there is hardly any violence, cursing, sex, etc. (at least not in the first 10 episodes). It is just a good wholesome AMAZING show. I highly recommend it. (you will get addicted)

--------------------------------

I still havne't taken a picture of the other skirt I made over the break..

I am also in the process of making 2 dresses, we'll see if they get put on hold for 4 months or if I can whip them out this week before homework gets too crazy..

----------------------------

Happy Schooling.

2012

2012-01-01T12:03:00.000-07:00

This year flew by.
I'm not big on resolutions.
and this year didn't end as perfectly as I would have hoped.
So it's not necessarily a good day for me to reflect.
Hopefully this new year will bring more happiness and love.
to me. to my family. and to all.
Here are some pictures from the week.

On Bain:

Shirt, Scarf, Shoes: J.Crew

Pants: Banana Republic

On Mom:

Shirt and Jeans: J.Crew

Cardigan: Macy's

Shoes: ?

On Me:

Sweater and Vest: J.Crew

Jeans: Hudson (Nordstrom)

Shoes: Steve Madden (Nordstrom)

Here is one of my new skirts I made this break!

Shirt and belt: J.Crew

Skirt: aBree Original

Taylor set up a candle-light dinner for us

SY turned 19!!!

Happy Birthday!

a little J.Crew Factory shopping

On Bain:

All J.Crew

On Me:

All J.Crew

Dinner at Zermatt

5 course meal!

this one dessert was SO HARD, it was funny to see everyone try to eat it! (some even tried soaking it in water.....haha)

more Christmas..

2011-12-29T17:28:00.001-07:00

I have other things on my list

(finishing up the sewing of my 2nd skirt of the break)

(reading the 6th book in the Blue Bloods Series that I finally bought)

(picking up my room)

(etc)

But if I get too behind I will never catch up and with school starting soon... things get busy.

Grades are posted. Yes, taking 15 credits and working around 20 hours a week does put a little damper on grades.. It was my worst semester at BYU. (but considering I have never worked while going to school and I still took the same amount of credits that I always have.... I think I did pretty well). Next semester I am taking 14 credits, but instead of teaching only 1 Jazz class I am teaching 3 and I am still taking the same work load at Avenia... not sure how it's all going to work out but... it won't be easier than last semester... that's for sure.

And oddly.... I am kind of excited to get back into school-I'M SO BORED!! Even with working everyday and sewing and watching movies and playing games... It's not enough (it doesn't help that practically ALL MY FRIENDS are out of town/unavailable during most of the break)... I think I'm just a girl who likes a schedule, who likes being TOO busy-too busy that I don't have time to miss my friends and be lonely. I think that's the truth, I like being so busy that my emotions are pushed away and all I have to focus on is getting through the day. (is that bad?... it kind of sounds bad, but I think it is the way I work best)

Well... no more talk of school-back to CHRISTMAS!!

stockings

yummy breakfast

getting ready for presents

you can call us the creepers...

granny and grandpa

present time!

After all the Christmas festivities at my house were over I went over to the Wilkins' house. Sweet Debbie gave me..

NYC ornaments and a GORGEOUS gold and pearl necklace!!

and I told Taylor all I wanted was a new water bottle filled with Tootsie Rolls....


old (cracked and duct taped) vs. NEW and perfect!

BUT I was surprised by another gift... a big wrapped box.
inside was another wrapped box...
and another..
and another...
and finally another which held...
the most gorgeous and perfect present I could ever have hoped for

gold, diamond, and amethyst (my birthstone) necklace

Mr. T also took me on a nice date up to Temple Square, to an amazing Mexican restaurant Z'Tejas (best guacamole ever!), and to Mission Impossible 2.

on Him:
Shirt and Sweater: J.Crew Factory
Jeans and Scarf: Gap
Coat: Target
Shoes: Guess

on Me:
All J.Crew (all new except jeans)
Sweater, Vest, and jeans: Factory

I've been spoiled by such amazing people-my family and friends are perfect.

Thank you!

And just for fun, my mom did the window displays at Avenia this winter and she came and took some pictures while I happened to be in the window doing inventory..

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T22:54:00.001-07:00

This year doesn't really seem like Christmas for some reason... maybe because there isn't some big event (like me coming home for the Holidays) or maybe because there is NO SNOW ON THE GROUND or the fact that Seth and Jenn aren't here...either way, it was Christmas Eve none-the-less.

(Here is my post from last Christmas Eve, which includes all of our gorgeous decorations and our complete list of traditions!! Christmas Eve 2010.)

Last Christmas Eve Eve Eve -I miss NYC

December 2010

This Christmas Eve we made the best homemade caramels (one of my favorite traditions), finished last minute presents, sang along to Christmas songs, watched Elf, cooked and ate delicious food, opened a few presents, and are now watching The Help.

We also started our new tradition. Festive Sweaters on Christmas Eve! YES!

best Christmas movie EVER

Traditional dinner: Clam Chowder, Crab Legs, and Rice Pudding

Interesting dinner conversation. Thank you Granny!

Presents: Kid to Kid

we like presents... and we are weird. welcome to our lives.

Holiday Fun..

2011-12-24T00:45:00.003-07:00

I've been busy (and lazy) during the break so far and have not felt up to blogging...

BUT I have some catching up to do.. outfits, life, Christmas/family stuff, pretty inspirations... etc.

Outfits... (no time for pictures most mornings so.. I only have a few..I wish I had more time during finals, I lived in J.Crew weekend clothes and would have loved documentation)

CLOCKWISE:

outfit 1 (church)- shirt: J.Crew factory (this year), skirt: a vintage shop in Provo that no longer exist.. I can't remember the name (2008), necklace: Anthropologie (2009), belt: Flower Basket (2008), tights: J.Crew (2010), shoes: Seychelles -Nordstrom (2010)

outfit 2 (school)- shirt: J.Crew factory (this year), cardigan: J.Crew (2009), pants: J.Crew (2010), boots: Steve Madden -Nordstrom (2008?)

outfit 3 (school)- shirt: J.Crew (this year), sweatshirt: Banana Republic (this year), pants: J.Crew factory-crewcuts (this year), boots: Ugg's (2008?)

outfit 4 (school)- silk blouse: J.Crew factory (2009?), cardigan: J.Crew (2010), white jeans: Hudson (2009), shoes: farylrobin -Kaleidoscope (2008), earrings: Nordstrom (this year)

outfit 5 (church)- turtleneck: J.Crew factory (2009), dress and earrings: J.Crew sample sale (2010), socks: J.Crew (2010), shoes: farylrobin -Kaleidoscope (2008), sash: Gap-off of a dress (?)

outfit 6 (school)- sweater and pants: J.Crew (2010), boots: J.Crew sample sale (2010), belt: ? (?)

AND.. since today was my last day of work until Christmas (I get tomorrow off), I decided to wear something a little Christmas-y and red... which I don't do often

my mommy's pretty tree

tank: J.Crew (2009), shirt and tights: J.Crew (2010), belt: J.Crew factory (?), skirt: Savers ? (?), shoes: (same as above), earrings: gifted from miss Katie (Cherry Lane ?-this year)

Since finals I have...

slept

worked at Avenia Bridal

blogged at Avenia Bridal-check out our Holiday Inspiration post

gone to Zermatt

played Ticket to Ride with my Mommy

gone Christmas shopping

wrapped presents

made necklaces with Bain and Mom

given presents (12 days of Christmas (which I sadly have not been good at taking pictures of) for Mr. T)

made goodies (pumpkin bread, oreo marshmallow bars, sugar cookies, honey taffy)

only thing I have pictures of-Oreo bars (via)

ate goodies

talked with Talyn about secret things!

taken an afternoon to design and sew a festive skirt

here is the material-finished product to come (I forgot to take a picture when I wore it that night)

gone to Brandon Harvey's wedding

photo booth at wedding

helped T organize

relaxed and laughed and smiled

celebrated the lovely EMILY CARR's engagement!

given more presents

warmed up by a fire

cuddled

eaten at the Pizza Pie Cafe with my girls (pictures on Talyn's camera)

fallen asleep watching the Grinch

realized how legit my brother is... Turtle-Nog

gone back up to Zermatt with my family and friends

listened to Christmas music

played Canasta, Outburst, and Scattergories

eaten my favorite Crab Meat Pizza

sipped hot cider and hot chocolate

eaten pumpkin bread

watched Star Wars 3

gone hot tubing (in the cold hot tub)

napped on the nice huge soft bed

eaten yummy chili, corn pudding and gingerbread pudding cake

watched part of the Santa Claus 2

cleaned my room

worked some more at Avenia Bridal (and had a nice surprise visitor)

done some last minute Christmas shopping

and blogged. finally.

I'm sure I did much more in-between.. I just don't remember right now

AND here is some inspiration I have saved to my desktop lately...

I might have posted this before, I don't remember but I AM IN LOVE WITH THESE FLOWERS AND THAT DRESS!!!

greenweddingshoes.com

This is currently my favorite Wedding dress (well.. aspects of it are my favorite)

I came across some old wedding dress sketches (2010)

I miss sketching

I miss designing

I miss sewing

LOVE the dress and the CAKE!!!! I want it

greenweddingshoes.com

it doesn't matter what season I get married in- I WILL HAVE HANGING MARSHMALLOWS! I love it!

and these candles -love this wedding shoot

more here

Gorgeous Neutral Flowers! love.

and if you didn't click the link to Avenia's blog..here are some of the inspiration photos I posted there

I think this is ADORABLE

I'm IN LOVE with EVERYTHING about this photo

beach, fur, wedding, dress, gold sequin pillow, cozy cave...

anything with hot chocolate is a winner in my book

Love. Love. Love. Everything.

Well.. that's all for tonight.

Merry Christmas EVE!

it's been so long..

2011-12-18T19:02:00.003-07:00

I don't even remember how to blog anymore.

Hopefully inspiration comes soon.

For now, I am done with school for 2 weeks.

and it feels so good.

slowly but surely...

2011-12-14T19:09:00.001-07:00

3 down

-Human Development

-Entrepreneurship

-Statistics

3 to go

-Physical Science

-Doctrine and Covenants

-Information Systems

finals = hibernation = MIA

2011-12-08T00:05:00.001-07:00

I am so grateful for my best friend Taylor.
He makes studying for 15 hours a day in the library bearable...even enjoyable at times!

Classes DONE! (no more HTML projects or Physical Science Midterms EVER AGAIN!)

Hallelujah!

Hibernation in the library continues until next Friday at 10pm! (with obvious breaks in the JSB Auditorium where I will be crammed, bumped, and claustrophobic while taking my 4 finals (the other 2 are THANKFULLY online!) and at Taco Bell-where I'll be eating all my cheap meals because I can't make a lunch that will last from 8am-1am)

Again... this is where I am grateful for Taylor.
and hot chocolate.
and Christmas Cadbury chocolate balls.

6 finals + administering/grading the final for my Jazz Class

Then CHRISTMAS! and cookies. and cuddling. and warm fires. and no hard library chairs. and no homework. and sleeping in. and hopefully sewing/designing something. and relaxing. and gift giving. and movies. and friends. and family. and recuperating. and simply a much needed (not long enough) break.

Next semester doesn't get any easier...

Happy December

2011-12-01T00:19:00.001-07:00

I am celebrating the first minutes of December here in my favorite place...
The BYU Library.
Lovely.

I'm on the verge of a breakdown.
I am tired.
I am sick of school.
Almost done.
2 weeks.

It'll be over before I know it.

Happy December.

Gorgeous Winter Palate

In LOVE with this dress

The cake is adorable and so is the ring

Pie Fest #2

2011-11-26T22:58:00.001-07:00

Snickerdoodle

Walnut

Banana Cream

Pumpkin Chiffon

Fudge Brownie

Berry Lattice

Coconut Sweet Potato

Berry Patch (Granny)

Millionaire -not pictured- (Taylor)

Pumpkin -not pictured- (Carol and Larry)

MMmmmm....

So DELICIOUS!

movies.

2011-11-26T18:31:00.001-07:00

I finally saw Breaking Dawn and loved it.

I am a HUGE fan of the books. I've read them all 3 times or so. I am not a huge fan of the movies, but I really liked this one! (probably because it had to do with a wedding). I loved her dress, and I want her wedding! It was gorgeous.

A "mock" of Bella's wedding dress (apparently it's for sale)

Loved the long sleeves

This is the first movie I've seen in the theaters since August... it was nice. I went with Bain and Mom. I'm also excited for some upcoming movies (that I probably won't have time to see...)

The Vow.

2 of my favorite people.

Rachel McAdams and Channing Tatum

Hunger Games

BEST BOOK EVER!

"Black Saturday" at Avenia Bridal

2011-11-26T10:23:00.001-07:00

If you are getting married

COME

If you know someone who is getting married

TELL THEM

20-75% off designer gowns

(literally almost every gown is reduced)

AND a free veil ($150) with the purchase of a gown!!!

Avenia Bridal

www.aveniabridal.com

228 East University Parkway Orem UT

Happy Thanksgiving.

2011-11-25T13:46:00.001-07:00

Gratitude Day 23 (Wednesday)

I am grateful for my job.
I am grateful for my haircut. (3 inches.) (Jared at Remedez)
I am grateful for Seth and Jenn who flew in today.
I am grateful for Magleby's Chocolate cake.
I am grateful for my AMAZING family.
(We are awesome! and have so much fun together.)
I am grateful for soft sweats and comfy sweaters.
I am grateful for Star Trek.
I am grateful for Taylor.
I am grateful for fashion/clothes/style.
I am grateful for my body.
I am grateful for today.
I am grateful for my life.

Gratitude DAY!!! HAPPY THANKSGIVING. Twenty fourth day. (Thursday)

I am grateful for Thanksgiving. My favorite holiday.
Here are some pictures that prove why today was wonderful.

family Christmas card picture!

THE FEAST!

my plate. ate every bite! DELICIOUS

pie fest #1

REAL family pictures...

the cute boys

Granny and Grandpa

I can't stank face...


such proud parents

We also did black friday for the first time.

(Mom, Jenn, Bain, and I)

well actually... 10pm Thursday

only for J.Crew Factory

LONG line of cars

long wait. it was cold.

(the sales were the same as Tuesday.. so it wasn't as worth it as we were hoping)

I am sad this grateful challenge is over. Maybe I'll keep it going. It is nice to remember how many things there are to be grateful for. The little everyday things that make life worth living. It is SO easy to dread and worry and be consumed with the hard things in life when in reality there is SO much to be thankful for.

Life in general is such a blessing.
to live.
to breath.
to be on this Earth.
to have a family.
to believe.
we are blessed.
we owe everything to our Heavenly Father.
He is the reason we live.
He is the reason we breath.
He is the reason we have this Earth.
He is the reason we have our families.
He is the reason we believe.
He is the reason we are blessed.

I am grateful for my Heavenly Father.

Food list.

2011-11-23T10:48:00.001-07:00

Thanksgiving Day Feast

Turkey
Green Bean Casserole
Cranberry Waldorf Salad (MY FAVORITE)
Indiana Corn Casserole
Cranberries
Sweet Potatoes (with marshmallows!)
Mashed Potatoes
Green Salad (oranges and grapefruit and pomegranates and poppy seed dressing)

PIE

Pumpkin Chiffon (one with graham cracker, one with gingersnap)
Banana Cream (graham cracker crust)
Walnut
Snicker-doodle
Berry (coconut crust)
Coconut Sweet Potato (gingersnap crust)
Brownie

Yes, be jealous.

Gratitude month is ALMOST over...

2011-11-23T09:30:00.001-07:00

Gratitude 21 (Monday)

I am grateful for the fact that I was home before 9pm or later on a school night. AND that I didn't do any homework today (granted I was feeling really sick so that is why I came home). I took at nap from 330-5, had a meeting at work from 5-630, showered, then went to Tay's to watch Star Wars (which I have NEVER seen before). We started with 1 and are working our way through them all (they are actually pretty good!).

Gratitude 22 (Tuesday)

I am grateful for J.Crew Factory SALES!!!!!!!! Tay and I went up after I got off of work today.

40% off practically everything in the store

20% off when you spend over $125 (print from Tanger Outlet website under J.Crew)

15% off for being a college student (bring your ID, you also get the discount if you are a teacher)

I spent $197.32 and SAVED $298.96!

I got a cable knit sweater, 2 button up shirts, 2 sweatshirt/knits, a jeweled T-Shirt, and gold hoop earrings, along with a present from my mom and sister ALL for under $200! Thank you J.Crew Factory! 9 items

I was happy. I am happy. I want to go back and get more because it was SUCH a steal!

I am so grateful it is THANKSGIVING BREAK.

I just have one exam to complete online, then no homework til Saturday. It's going to be a good week.

PIE. PIE. PIE. PIE. PIE. PIE. PIE. PIE. PIE.

Today's (Tuesday) Outfit

Cashmere Cardigan, Necklace, Bracelets, Belt: J.Crew

Shirt, Earrings: Banana Republic

Jeans: Hudson

Boots: Steve Madden (Nordstrom)

so.....

2011-11-21T12:13:00.001-07:00

I think I'm ready for break..
I don't think I've fully listened to anything any of my teachers have said today.
homework?
ha..
good luck.
bring on the pie.

odds and ends. Gratitude Day twenty.

2011-11-20T17:55:00.001-07:00

-a lovely song. I am grateful for music.

-some favorites from this season. I am grateful for J.Crew.

-my cute Grandparents came in to town today for Thanksgiving. I am grateful for them. They are so kind and giving. They do SO much for us, they are so generous and loving. I am so happy they are here!

-I was given (my favorite) symphony chocolate bar today in Relief Society. I am grateful for inspired loving people. and chocolate.

-Gorgeous (NON-STRAPLESS!! well..yes strapless but with a little more cover) wedding gown. I am grateful for beautiful creations. ((apparently the groom above is Ralph Lauren's son... Obviously he designed his son's fiances dress!! INSANELY AMAZING!!!!)

-The man that I get to spoil one day will dress like a saint. I am grateful for J.Crew sweaters for men. My favorite.

-another gorgeous gown. with sleeves. I am grateful for beautiful (modest) wedding dresses... they are sometimes very hard to find.

-basically today I am grateful for the time I got to spend laying in bed browsing inspiration online and NOT doing homework!

Gratitude day 19

2011-11-19T19:11:00.001-07:00

I am grateful for my sweet sister Bain.

My room has gotten out of control messy.

Sunday is my pick up day and last Sunday I was so busy that it didn't happen.

It was DRIVING ME CRAZY but I did not have time to clean it up at all the past two weeks.

I came home from work at 4 and I was not looking forward to cleaning my room....

I walk upstairs to this!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Out of the kindness of my sweet sister's heart
she woke up
saw my room
and decided to clean it for me

She picked up, she vaccumed, she dusted, she made my bed, she even organized my closet.

Best sister ever????
I think so.

Thanks BAINY-I love you.

P.S. I may or may not have cried when I saw my room......

and just for fun, some cute pictures my mom found from when she was young

1962 (look at my cute Granny!)


1974

look how cute and little she is!

2010

2 outfits..

I couldn't decide which one..

Outfit 1:
Pants: Anthropolgie
Everything else J.Crew

Outfit 2:
Shirt, Pants, Belts: J.Crew
Blazer: H&M
Boots: Steve Madden (Nordstrom)

P.S. NORDSTROM IS LEAVING UNIVERSITY MALL
depressing.
not only is there no more shoe shopping
or jean shopping
or jewelry shopping
but there is now less hope then ever of an
Anthropologie
or
J.Crew
ever coming to Orem...
If Nordstrom can't make it...no one can.

(apparently they want to make Nordstrom more high end and ... Utah County doesn't cut it)

and because I never posted my favorite J.Crew cover...I will now.

pure perfection

more thanks

2011-11-18T22:06:00.001-07:00

Day 17. Thursday.

It would not be a gratitude month unless there was a post about my best friend Taylor.

We spent the night doing homework in the library-like we do every night.

To put it simply...He amazes me.

(I am not going to make this too personal for courtesy sake but..)

When I look at Taylor I am grateful for..

His dedication to school/career/life
The fact that he knows me more than anyone else
His ability to make me smile under ANY circumstance
His strength and how he lifts me up and keeps me going
The fact that we are VERY similar yet EXTREMELY different
His patience and forgiving heart
The trust that we have in each other
The past 6 years and 3 months that he's been in my life
His growth and love of the gospel
The mission he served for our Church
His amazing family and the love that he shows them
His friendship-through the ups and downs

--I could go on forever

Thank you sweet Tay Tay, for everything.

from then...2005


to closer... 2008

to now.. 2011

Day 18. Friday

I am grateful for

SNOW SNOW SNOW SNOW SNOW SNOW SNOW SNOW SNOW SNOW SNOW SNOW SNOW SNOW SNOW SNOW SNOW SNOW

**************************

so pretty.

--------------------------------------------------------

and I'm also grateful for the nice dinner my dad took me to tonight in honor of Lavell Edwards.

I met some awesome people

(who were interested and encouraging in my dream to start a stylish modest wedding line-looks like I'll have some support to make that dream a reality!!)

Let's just say my daddy likes to brag and talk..

He sure knows how to network and spread the word.

Thanks Daddy!

and thanks to the amazing women I met tonight.

I left inspired to be better and to do much with my life.

to love and support unconditionally.

to never give up on fashion.

and to be exceptionally kind and sincere to others.

currently..

2011-11-18T07:21:00.001-07:00

ugh.

this library.

BYU.

I've been on this campus too much this week.

Monday 8am-10:45 pm

Tuesday 8am-11:45 pm

Wednesday 9am-11:45 pm (off campus: Avenia from 2-7)

Thursday 9am-11:45 pm (off campus: Avenia from 5-7)

Friday 7am-hopefully no later than 6 pm (off campus: Avenia from 10-2)

I cannot wait until tonight when I just get to relax, cuddle up, and do nothing!!!

and sleep. I miss sleeping.

Almost done! I am SO excited for the 3 day break!

catch up

2011-11-15T19:56:00.001-07:00


flowers and dress!!! AH, in LOVE!

green wedding shoes.com

Day 12 (Saturday)

I am grateful for my massage therapist Amber (Remedez Salon). She is the best person in my life sometimes... she fixes me and I always leave refreshed and rejuvenated. I HIGHLY recommend if you love massages that you buy the 6 month wellness series. 6 massages for $300! It is a GREAT deal. Plus if you pre-book with Amber you get 15 extra minutes, so you are receiving a $65 1-hour massage, plus and extra 15 minutes for only $50. It is the BEST place to spend my money.

I am also grateful for all massages I receive, either by Amber or others who know that they are my favorite thing!!

Day 13 (Sunday)

I am grateful for my testimony. I know that Heavenly Father loves me and answers my prayers. I know that trials only make us stronger (no matter how much they hurt). I know that the temple is the greatest place on Earth. I know that having daily scripture study improves your life. I know that we receive personal revelation today, and that I receive it on a daily basis. I know that God knows everything, He knows what is best and that I need to trust in his timeline. I know that hard things will be worth it in the end. I know that this gospel is what keeps me surviving. I know that God lives, that Christ is my Savior, that He lived and died for me. I know He knows my pains and sufferings. I know He has forgiven me and that He will always forgive me through the Atonement. I know that I will be with my eternal family (my current family as well as my future family when I get married and have kids). I know that it is only through Christ that we can receive all blessings that we are entitled to. I know that we have a living loving prophet today and that his words along with the words of past prophets are from God. I know that the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints is true, and I love it.

It is MUCH harder to stay up on reading, studying, praying, etc. while living here in Utah going to school. That may sound weird but when I lived in NYC I RELIED solely on this gospel and my Savior to make it through each day. I LIVED for the hour that I spent studying and growing closer to Christ. I had no other support, no one else to turn to except my God. I miss those days. I miss that feeling of constantly being wrapped in my Heavenly Father's arms. My goal is to try to get back to where I once was. I do not have an hour each day to dedicate to reading the scriptures (unless I go to sleeping 5 or less hours a night instead of 6) but I know that there is still more I can do. I am busy, I am stressed, I am pressed for time, BUT it is only through God that we can manage these things. God only wants to help. If we give Him our time, He will pour out His blessing to us.

I am grateful for my Savior, for His Atoning sacrifice. I am grateful that He loves me enough. I am grateful that He knows me by name. I am grateful that He knows what I need. I am grateful to know Him.

"I stand all amazed at the Love Jesus offers me, confused at the grace that so fully He proffers me. I tremble to know that for me He was crucified, that for me a sinner He suffered He bled and died.

I marvel that He would descend from His throne divine, to rescue a soul so rebellious and proud as mine. That He should extend His great love unto such as I, sufficient to own to redeem and to justify.

I think of His hands pierced and bleeding to pay the debt, such mercy such love and devotion can I forget? No, no I will praise and adore at the mercy seat, until at the glorified throne I kneel at His feet.

Oh it is wonderful that He should care for me enough to die for me, Oh it is wonderful, wonderful to me!"

Day 14 (Monday)

I am grateful for...

Zupas (my Mom took me to lunch) their bread is MY FAVORITE ever AND their soups are incredible. (I tend to get the Thai Peanut Chicken Salad and the Mushroom Soup! delicious!)

Pumpkin Bread-I made the first batch of the season on Sunday and got to devour it while I was in the library slaving away.. made things much better!

My bed. I wish I could spend more time in it.

Day 15 (Tuesday)

This quote I read in my Doctrine and Covenants student manual

D&C 117:6-7

'Those who ally themselves with the Lord will ultimately prosper. God has power over all and will cause all things to work together for the good of those who walk uprightly and follow His counsels (D&C 90:24)'

"In relation to events that will yet take place, and the kind of trials, troubles, and sufferings which we shall have to cope with, it is to me a matter of very little moment; these things are in the hands of God, he dictates the affairs of the human family, and directs and controls our affairs; and the great thing that we, as a people, have to do is seek after and cleave unto our God, to be in close affinity with him, and to seek for his guidance, and his blessings and Holy Spirit to lead and guide us in the right path. Then it matters not what it is nor who it is that we have to contend with, God will give us strength according to our day." -John Taylor

sweat pants

I wore big dance sweats, a big NYCDA sweatshirt, and my big puffer coat to school today. First time all semester. I felt like a bum BUT when you are at school from 8am-11:50pm it is SO worth it. I was comfy. It was nice. (hey, I'm a dancer, I am entitled to wear my dance clothes every once in a while right??)

AND the HOLIDAY J.CREW CATALOG!!!!!

finally.

LINK to ONLINE CATALOG!!

There are SO many things I am DYING for... DYING!!

I. LOVE. J.CREW. FOREVER.

(I'll post my wish list...after this week is over)

Day 16 (TODAY/Wednesday)

I am grateful for Gavin DeGraw.

His voice.

unreal.

I listened to his album "SWEETER" full blast in the car today...

HIS VOICE!!

ah. it kills me.

I also just realized that my favorite holiday is in a week!!!

(where did November go?)

Not only is it my first Thanksgiving home for 2 years but it will also be the first Thanksgiving with my WHOLE FAMILY in 4 years!!!

2007 and 2008 Seth was on his mission

2009 and 2010 I was in NYC

Now we're all going to be home.

Including Jenn and the grandparents.

I am grateful for holidays! Especially Thanksgiving.

Oh and fun news...

Remember Brandon Harvey, my dear from since Jr. High

HE'S GETTING MARRIED!!

He are some of the cute engagements I stole off FB.

Long post-I apologize.

I just needed to catch up it was driving me crazy!

I'll end with some outfits...nothing too exciting, it is definitely the season for comfy and putting hair up (my hair gets SO static-y in the winter...no bueno. Plus I need a haircut-BAD. I get one next week (since I'll have time-no school)

Comfy Casual

Outfit 1: Saturday at work then the library

All J.Crew

Necklace: Anthropologie

FAVORITE pants, they are like dressy sweatpants. They are basically "me" in a pant. I love being comfortable while still being fashionable. Currently I LOVE dressing up my comfy with a heel (especially these booties, they go with everything!) This sweater is another one of my FAVORITE purchases for last season. SO warm and comfy, and such a gorgeous design.

Outfit 2: Bain going to Church

Dress: Banana Republic

Cardigan: J.Crew

Scarf: Urban Outfitters

Socks: ??

Boots: Nordstrom (I think..Steve Madden)

Outfit 3:Wednesday at school then work then the library

Sweater: Taylor's closet.. it shrunk so I took it when he cleaned out his closet post-mission (unsure of brand/store)

Everything else: J.Crew

Felt like adding some neon in a scarf and a belt (hidden in picture). I also wore my bright yellow J.Crew coat.One of those days where I thought color may brighten the mood of myself and others.

Bain came into my room as she was getting ready and somehow we managed to wear the same colors without even planning to.

Two ways of wearing Black and Teal

Bain:

Blazer: H&M

Dress: Nordstrom

Socks: Forever 21 (thanks Seth and Jenn)

Boots: Target

Me:

All J.Crew

Earrings: Nordstron

Bow/Belt: off of an Anthropologie dress

Watch: Michael Kors

I'm a little behind. Day 11.

2011-11-13T16:32:00.001-07:00

Gratitude Day 11 (Friday)

Today I am grateful for FAMILY.

First off, it was Seth's 24th BIRTHDAY today (Friday)!!

Happy Birthday SETHY!

I am grateful for Seth and Jenn: They make me laugh SO DANG MUCH! They are definitely two of the best people I know! I CANNOT wait to see them over Thanksgiving! They are perfect for each other, hard working, and so in love! I look up to them and am so happy to have them in my life. I love you both!

New Years Eve-2010

I am grateful for Sy: He is probably one of the sweetest and most thoughtful people I know...even if I don't always act like I appreciate it..I'm not a very touchy person, but I do know that his hugs and kisses everyday are coming from his sweet heart. He also dropped everything the other night (hanging with his friends in the basement) just to make his starving sister (me) a quesadilla at midnight after getting home from a long day at school. Such a stud. I love you.

Talyn's Birthday Party-Sept. 2011

I am grateful for Bain: She is now in high school and I LOVE that we share clothes, talk about boys, and chill on my bed pinning on pinterest and laughing whenever we are both home (usually this happens at 11:00pm or so). Tonight The Dance Club had their annual benefit concert called Art with Heart for Shriners hospital. Have I mentioned how amazing my sister is at dancing?! Well she is! She did SUCH a great job. I love you.

after Art with Heart-Nov. 2011

I am grateful for my Mommy and Daddy:

Katie's Wedding-Oct. 2011

Mom, you are hands down the BEST MOM EVER! You do SO much for me, and you know it! haha, sorry I still have to bum rides off you to school and work, but even when it's midnight you still do it with a smile on your face. You have always helped with homework (for all 4 of your kiddos), and you stay up late and wake up early to make sure we are on top of things. You are completely SELFLESS and I love that about you. I hope to be like you when I am a mother. Thank you for making us breakfast, and lunch, and dinner, and snacks, and treats, and doing the laundry and running errands, and loving us all unconditionally. I think I can speak for all when I say that you are an angel and you bless many lives, our family knows it, and so do all of our friends. You are everyone's favorite. I love you.

FIT dance concert-May 2011

Dad, you are the most hardworking and innovative man there is. No matter how much your back is hurting, how tired you are, etc. you go to work everyday-using all that you know to provide for our family and I admire you. You have never given up hope, you have never taken a day off just because you couldn't take things any longer. You are also extremely SELFLESS and I know that everything you do is for your family. You are so smart and educated, you have worked your whole life to get to where you are. From an Idaho farm boy to an expert in Real Estate (and all the other fields you have succeeded in) you are a prime example of a hard working, motivated, dedicated man and father. You spend your free time helping others, bringing them to truth and knowledge. You are a helper and a problem solver. I love you.

4th of July-2011

I am so extremely grateful for my family.

Family Picture-Aug. 2010

random moments of gratitude..

2011-11-10T12:33:00.001-07:00

on day TEN I am grateful for....

split toes and bleeding feet. It means I got to dance today! Here is the dance I choreographed for my Jazz class...

(I'm the one in the green shorts)

and also..

I am grateful for Christ and Christ-mas.

I just received this sad email today...

-------------------------------------

White House will not do Christmas!

Thought you might be interested in this information from the White House.. This isn't a rumor; this is a fact. A very talented artist for several years has painted ornaments to be hung on the various White House Christmas trees.

The WH sends out an invitation to send an ornament and informs the artists of the theme for the year. She got her letter from the WH recently. It said that they would not be called Christmas trees this year. They will be called Holiday trees. And, to please not send any ornaments painted with a religious theme.

She was very upset at this development and sent back a reply telling them that she painted the ornaments for Christmas trees and would not be sending any for display that left Christ out of Christmas.

Just thought you should know what the new residents in the WH plan for the future of America .

If you missed his statement that "we do not consider ourselves a Christian Nation" this should confirm that he plans to take us away from our religious foundation as quickly as possible. Just another step toward turning America away from Christianity!

We should shout to the highest hills that the White House is ours - not the Obama's, and 85% of Americans believe in Christ (Christmas)

-----------------------------------

on a lighter note...here is a lovely picture from the J.Crew Holiday catalog. It warms my heart and makes me want hot chocolate and a nice cozy blanket snuggled up in a cabin in the mountains.

J.Crew

and also..
Excedrin Migraine,
Mountain Dew (which I haven't had in FOREVER...I used to live on it in high school...now I hardly EVER drink carbonation or caffeine. This week I needed a little boost though)
and

the fact that I now have 3 out of 5 Physical Science Exams (yes you read right, FIVE total-absurd!!) out of the way.

AND this gorgeous wedding (Dress-Avenia Bridal Custom Creation!)
Real Bride Carly featured on Green Wedding Shoes
really though GO TO THE LINK. adorable!

(She is also the cover girl of BYU's Bridal Guide magazine!)

It's seriously perfect.

The other wedding on the link is also an Avenia Bride. Dress Vineyard Collection.

Today I am grateful for...

2011-11-10T00:12:00.000-07:00

My job.

My love of weddings.

My love of fashion.

My love of designing.

My love of beauty.

My talent of fashion design.

(designing, creating, sewing, imagining)

Today at work I got to be the pretend model for a photoshoot that is going on next week. I was about the same size as the real model so I got to put the dress on, the veil (which I've never tried on before), all the jewelry, the winter cape, etc.. It was all so fun! I've never tried on wedding dresses before (yes...even though I work at a Bridal Store... actually I've tried on one, years ago, the first time I visited Avenia in 2009.)

Here are some holiday outfit tips from J.Crew Designer Tom Mora

Love him. and his advice.

and here is my cute brother (I think the love for fashion runs in the family)

twiners..

on him:

Hat: Urban Outfitters

Shirt: IZOD

Pants: gifted

Shoes: Forever 21

on me:

Cardigan: Express

Chambray shirt and belt: J.Crew

Jeans: Seven's (Bloomingdale's)

Shoes: Sperry Topsiders

-----

too much school = constant headache, tense muscles, burning bloodshot eyes
from too much studying/reading, too many tests (that are SO hard/time consuming (memorizing 100-300 pages of textbook...tell me how that is beneficial...), and not enough sleep.

I think I need to wear more make-up.. I look dead.
haha.
but I'm serious.

P.S. sorry to all my friends who text me and I never respond. My head is too full to remember when I have cell service... I usually remember when I am in the library with no service, taking a break from Physical Science. Like right now. I apologize, please forgive me. I do love you.

On day 8 I am grateful for...UPDATED

2011-11-08T20:36:00.002-07:00

My sweet Talyn.

I woke up to the most inspired and lovely text from my bestie and it warmed my heart. No Talyn, I love you more than you know!! Thank you dear, you always know what I need.

and since I'm already on the subject of Talyn... Here is a lovely picture Talyn "HAD" to take of me... I was hungry and this is what I found.. hahaha LOVE YOU TAL! (and thanks Ki for the food!)

UPDATE: to complete the day I came home from school at midnight to this lovely present from Talyn

a coupon for making S'MORES!

AND I was informed that my sweet sister Bain found my ipod that was lost this morning when I needed it for Jazz class. I am grateful for her and for my ipod being found!!

Thanks Bainy, and thank you Talyn (and Colby)!!

gratitude day 6 and 7

2011-11-07T18:45:00.002-07:00

Sunday November 6th, I am grateful for..

1. Prayers, and unexpected answers
2. Quotes like this one...

"God loves us, so He makes us the gift of suffering. Through suffering, we release our hold on the toys of this world, and know our true good lies in another world. We're like blocks of stone, out of which the sculptor carves the forms of men. The blows of his chisel, which hurt us so much, are what make us perfect. The suffering in this world is not the failure of God's love for us; it is that love in action. For believe me, this world that seems to us so substantial is no more than the shadowlands. Real life has not begun yet." ("Shadowlands," p. 1) C. S. Lewis

3. Church and inspired words

"Don't give up, don't give in, be stronger. We all have to overcome these weaknesses, we all have to overcome this world. We can't overcome the natural man without miracles, without help-Ask flat out for miracles. He is alive and He does live, He grants us miracles. We NEED the help of the Savior."

Day 7 I am grateful for...

1. Information Systems 201 TA's. Without you I would fail my flowcharting project. Thank you. Yes, I wrote this VBA code in Excel (I feel pretty darn cool)!!

---------------------------
Option Explicit

Sub UtahValleyTours()

'Bree Woolstenhulme Section 6'

Dim P, NS, NL As Integer
Dim H, SBP, LBP, EHP, ECH, SE, LE, SEHC, LEHC, STP, LTP, TP As Double

P = Range("D6").Value
H = Range("D8").Value
SBP = Range("E30").Value
LBP = Range("E31").Value
EHP = Range("E33").Value

If H > 5 Then
    If H > 9 Then
        ECH = 4
    Else
        ECH = H - 5
    End If
Else
    ECH = 0
End If

If P > 35 Then
    If P > 55 Then
        If P > 70 Then
            If P > 90 Then
                NS = 0
                NL = 2
            Else
                NS = 1
                NL = 1
            End If
        Else
            NS = 2
            NL = 0
        End If
    Else
        NS = 0
        NL = 1
    End If
Else
    NS = 1
    NL = 0
End If

SE = NS * SBP
LE = NL * LBP
SEHC = ECH * EHP * SBP
LEHC = ECH * EHP * LBP
STP = SE + SEHC
LTP = LE + LEHC
TP = STP + LTP

Range("D12").Value = ECH
Range("C16").Value = NS
Range("E16").Value = NL
Range("C18").Value = SE
Range("E18").Value = LE
Range("C20").Value = SEHC
Range("E20").Value = LEHC
Range("C22").Value = STP
Range("E22").Value = LTP
Range("D24").Value = TP

End Sub
-----------------------------

and

2. The Symphony Bar I'm currently enjoying. I needed you.

day five.

2011-11-05T21:09:00.001-06:00

hmmmm....

Today was hard and long.

I had work.

Then homework in the library.

Now...more studying at home.

Have I ever mentioned that I may be the only person in the universe who absolutely HATES the weekend.

I am grateful that there are only

21 days left of school.

26 counting finals week.

I need a break from here....

Herold B. Lee Library-BYU Campus

OH... I actually have another thing I am grateful for. My mom just informed me that my power cord for my laptop arrived!!!! It stopped working on Monday, I went to Best Buy and the guy sold me another one which he promised would work. It doesn't. Well it keeps my computer on but it doesn't charge it so it has been rather frustrating. I am grateful for the fact that my laptop can actually charge again-that makes life so much easier.

2011-11-04T21:24:00.002-06:00

Gratitude Day 4.

I am grateful for Emily Carr and Avenia Bridal.

I love helping my friends find gorgeous perfect wedding gowns!

(I live vicariously through them...)

We also sold my FAVORITE Avenia Bridal gown today.

Matisse by Junko Yoshioka

I am happy for the store.

and depressed for myself.

I miss it already.

I never even got to try it on.

(it did look amazing on the bride-so that's good)

GORGEOUS DETAIL!

and today's outfit. (new clothes)

I thought I'd try mixing comfy with structure

All clothes: J.Crew
(navy sequin sweatshirt and red sweats (best purchase ever!!) new)
(blazer...not so new, Holiday 2008)
Shoes: Farylrobin @ Kaleidoscope
Earrings: Banana Republic

November. Gratitude Month.

2011-11-03T22:04:00.000-06:00

So.. my mom is doing a GRATITUDE countdown on facebook until Thanksgiving

I've decided to do the same, only on my blog instead.

It may be hard because I am at the point in the semester where

I CAN'T TAKE IT ANYMORE!!!

I am SO over homework.

and the library.

and not having a life.

The next 2 weeks include 4 exams and a 8 page paper.

THEN IT'S THANKSGIVING!

then less than two weeks of school.

finals week.

THEN CHRISTMAS BREAK!!

hallelujah.

Gratitude day 1: I am grateful for President Monson. He gave our BYU devotional and reminded me that in order to have FAITH you must not have DOUBT. I thought I had faith, but I do doubt quite a bit too... something I am now working on. Fear not, doubt not.

Gratitude day 2: I am grateful for Dance. My sister was watching some of her dance videos and it inspired me to find some of my old dances and watch them. I miss it. I want to DANCE again. Like really dance. on stage. I do love teaching though, a ton! and am SO grateful for the opportunity I have to teach at BYU. I just wish I could go back sometimes..... I have been so blessed. (picture from my trio rejazz... which was amazing, I wish I was able to upload the video)

Gratitude day 3: I am grateful for J.Crew packages. (and a job that allows me to buy new clothes every once in a while) Pretty new clothes. Much needed. it feels good. lots of sequins, lots of comfy, some fur, and the winter Sperry Topsiders that I wanted SO badly last year (J.Crew sold out, but it's okay...this season's style is even better!!)...now I'm just waiting for Christmas so I can wear them.

and here is an outfit from this week..

Shirt, Belt, Booties: J.Crew

Sweater, Pants: Gap

Earrings: Banana Republic

Happy November.

This may be my FAVORITE month. The crisp air, the light snow, the comfy clothes, the food. MMMmmmm. I love it.

halloween.

2011-10-30T22:55:00.001-06:00

Well... the whole "having a life outside of the library" continued the rest of the week (Thurs: relax time with T, Fri: dinner at Guru's (BEST SWEET POTATO FRIES EVER) with Brick, Sat: 8-3:30 library then Rumbi (again with the sweet potato fries) with Emily and road trip to SLC to see Mrs. Katie Lifferth!)....but it probably shouldn't have... this week, no more fun for Bree... I'm not behind, but I am certainly not ahead. I have a feeling it is going to be a LONG hard week. (3rd set of midterms start this weekend and go through Thanksgiving) I did really need a break though so I am glad I got to be with all my friends this week and do something fun EVERY night. That really hasn't happened in SO LONG! I forgot what it's like to have a life....

Did I mention I am NOT a fan of Halloween. Such a strange day, I don't really consider it a holiday because there is NO purpose for it.... I do like candy though.

and J.Crew

this is as halloween-y as I get..

fall treats, fall outfits

2011-10-30T22:44:00.000-06:00

More yummy fall treats! (best cookies ever)

and since it's been awhile...

Outfit 1

Necklace, Cashmere Sweater: J.Crew

Wide leg denim: Banana Republic

Outfit 2

Sweatshirt, Belt: J.Crew

Skirt: Urban Outfitters

Tights: Nordstrom

Shoes: Kaleidoscope

Outfit 3

Shirt, Belt, Jeans, Shoes: J.Crew

Vest: My great aunt Maria's

Outfit 4

Sweatshirt: Banana Republic

Necklaces: J.Crew

Jeans: Hudson

Boots: Steve Madden, Nordstrom

Outfit 1

Shirt, Tank, Belt, Shoes: J.Crew

Pants: Banana Republic

Earrings: aBree Original

Outfit 2

All: J.Crew

Headband: aBree Original

Outfit 3

(see I'm not dressed up ALL the time)

FIT sweatshirt

Jazz/Yoga pants: Jo and Jax

Socks: J.Crew

Boots: Ugg

Outfit 4

Shirt, Cardigan: J.Crew

Pants: Hudson

Boots: Steve Madden, Nordstrom

Scarf: Present (H&M maybe)

currently

2011-10-26T23:30:00.005-06:00

It's weird...

I actually have a life outside of the library this week.

First time all semester.

Yesterday I made yummy treats with Talyn

best marshmallow caramel corn EVER!

caramel chocolate covered pretzels

caramel, white chocolate, cinn. & sugar.

fun goodies for friends!

Today I spoke with the newly wed on the phone.

Had dinner with Emily at Zupas.

Went for a long over-due trip to the temple.

and remembered why I love the Book of Mormon so much.

Ether.

2:25 (Lord speaking) "And behold, I prepare you against these things; for ye cannot cross this great deep save I prepare you against the waves of the sea, and the winds which have gone forth, and the floods which shall come, Therefore what will ye that I should prepare for you that ye may have light when ye are swallowed up in the depths of the sea?"

-this is exactly how I feel these days-

3:2 (Brother of Jared speaking) "O Lord, thous hast said that we must be encompassed about by the floods. Now behold, O lord, and do not be angry with they servant because of his weakness before thee; for we know that thou art holy and dwellest in the heavens, and that we are unworthy before thee...nevertheless, O Lord, thou has given us a commandment that we must call upon thee, that from thee we may receive according to our desires..(:4) I know...that thous hast all power, and can do whatsoever thou wilt for the benefit of man; therefore touch these stones, with they finger and prepare them that they may shine forth in darkness...that we may have light while we shall cross the sea..(:5) thou canst do this. We know that thou art able to show forth great power."

-pure faith. God will get us through, he will provide an answer if we ask with FAITH and listen for the answer. this is something I need to work on. I want to have faith like the brother of Jared-

3:6 "..The Lord stretched forth his hand and touched the stones one by one with his finger..."

-the Lord answered, He always does-

3:26 "..If he (Brother of Jared...aka US) would believe in him (the Lord) that he could show unto him all things-it should be shown unto him; therefore the Lord could not withhold anything from him, for he knew that the Lord could show him all things."

-the more we believe, the more faith we have, the more light we can receive, the more we can know, the closer to God we will become-

Basically...

It's fall.

This means

Hot Chocolate.

Warm fires.

Cozy blankets.

Wool coats.

Fuzzy socks.

Yummy sweets.

and ONLY 4 weeks til Thanksgiving!!

(remember, it's my favorite...and I've been away from home for the past two so I am SUPER excited......PIE FEST!!!!!!!)

A couple weeks ago I was stopped on campus so I could get a picture taken...

CHECK it out HERE.

Happy fall.

another wedding.

2011-10-24T10:00:00.001-06:00

A gorgeous friend of mine got married a couple weekends ago and I AM IN LOVE WITH HER WEDDING! It was absolutely gorgeous and perfect. I knew Lindsey when I was a sophomore in high school, she was a senior, and we danced on Orem Dance Company together. She went to a school dance with my brother. Then years later we ran into each other in NYC at the singles ward. I was just leaving for the summer on my study abroad, and she was just coming for an summer internship.

Now she is married.
Check out her LOVELY wedding HERE! Photography by: Alixann Loosle

Rooftop. Gorgeous Flowers. S'mores. Hot Chocolate. Stunning Bride and Groom. Lovely gown. Perfect Colors.

quote of the day

2011-10-24T09:50:00.000-06:00

"Forget not to be happy now. Don't fail to notice theblessings we do have. Don't wait for the golden ticket. If we spend our dayswaiting for fabulous roses, we could miss the beauty and wonder of the tinyForget Me Not's that are all around. Never lose hope, never stop striving, butdon't close your eyes to each days beautiful moments." (it may be slightly paraphrased)

-Dieter F. Uchtdorf

Read the whole talk HERE.

It'll make your day better-I PROMISE.

Katie Agle Lifferth

2011-10-23T11:18:00.000-06:00

happy Katie. Earrings: aBree Original

Wedding Festivities

Dinner: the night before...

entertainment for the evening

Daren and his brother resurrected a little dance they did at their sisters wedding about 15 years ago. "When you hold my hand, you hold my heart." ADORABLE and HILARIOUS!

ALSO, Daren set up hidden cameras when he proposed to Katie so we were able to watch the whole proposal and literally it was hands down the sweetest thing I have ever seen. (good job Daren-you rock). I'm trying to get the video to post....

The dinner was awesome-prime rib! Yummy.

and cake.

haha

sweet Katie recognized the special women in her life, my cute mommy was one of them

my skirt: aBree Original

"I love to see the temple, I'm going there...TODAY!"

October 20th, 2011

Mr. and Mrs. Lifferth

Dress: aBree Original

The Agle Family

Friends

Katie and her sweet Mother

my skirt: aBree Original

PARTY TIME! Reception

favors-tins of hot chocolate

Cake: aBree Original

FRENCH TOAST! amazing! and hot chocolate

all of my cute family came!

bye bye Katie

Congratulations Katie!

You are the most beautiful bride in the world.

I love you.

Thank you for having faith in me and letting me make your dress.

It turned out perfectly.

The process was a blast and I am so happy I was able to be a part of your wedding.

xoxo

The day has come....

2011-10-20T14:50:00.001-06:00

mrs. katie sarah agle lifferth-october twentieth two-thousand eleven

long overdue update of pictures...

2011-10-16T11:18:00.000-06:00

Talyn's 21st Birthday (September 2)

Birthday Girl

Talyn's family...and Chris... with a gun... haha a fake gun

Katie and Daren

Talyn, Katie, and Sy

My besties!

the lucky men

cute Tal opening presents

the whole party!

Yummy General Conference Goodies... (sorry I haven't been able to transfer my notes from conference and make a good post) (October 1-2)

Tradition: Sat. morning Cinnamin Rolls, Sun. morning Crepes. It was also Dad and Brandon's birthday on Sunday so we had yummy fruit cake!

Katie's Bachelorette Party (October 4)

My NYC lovlies

She'll be married in less than 100 hours!!

Sy's MISSION CALL to Lima Peru North Spanish Speaking (October 12)

the call came October 12, 2011, he departs Feb 29, 2012

Seth and Jenn on skype-Tal, Bain and me

Sy's friends!

Oh! and if you haven't taken my advice yet.... BUY THE NEW GAVIN DEGRAW CD. It is his best work. Every song is PERFECTION. Literally, I've never been able to not pick a favorite or a least favorite on an album... all 10 songs are pure genius.

meeting Gavin in NY at his concert, summer 2008

2011-10-13T23:48:00.000-06:00

Well it's been a lovely day.

17 hours on BYU campus.

7am-midnight

Test #2 tomorrow

Human Development

just one of those days..

2011-10-13T08:38:00.002-06:00

tired
blood shot eyes
stomach ache
getting a cold
printer broken
running late
mental/physical breakdown
headache
hungry
did I mention tired....

and I haven't even taken my first test yet....

So.. I try and remember this

“Even when you feel the truth of [the] capacity and kindness of the Lord to deliver you in your trials, it may still test your courage and strength to endure. The Prophet Joseph Smith cried out in agony in a dungeon:

“ ‘O God, where are thou? And where is the pavilion that covereth thy hiding place?’(D&C 121:1–2). . . .

“The Lord’s reply has helped me and can encourage us all in times of darkness. Here it is: ‘My son, peace be unto thy soul; thine adversity and thine afflictions shall be but a small moment; And then, if thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high; thou shalt triumph over all thy foes’ (D&C 121:7–8).”

-Henry B. Eyring, “Adversity,” Ensign, May 2009, 24–25

('thine afflictions shall be but a small moment....peace be unto they soul')

“Our challenges, including those we create by our own decisions, are part of our test in mortality. Let me assure you that your situation is not beyond the reach of our Savior. Through Him, every struggle can be for our experience and our good (see D&C 122:7). Each temptation we overcome is to strengthen us, not destroy us. The Lord will never allow us to suffer beyond what we can endure (see 1 Corinthians 10:13).

“We must remember that the adversary knows us extremely well. He knows where, when, and how to tempt us. If we are obedient to the promptings of the Holy Ghost, we can learn to recognize the adversary’s enticements. Before we yield to temptation, we must learn to say with unflinching resolve, ‘Get thee behind me, Satan’ (Matthew 16:23).”

-Robert D. Hales, “Becoming Provident Providers Temporally and Spiritually,” Ensign, May 2009, 7

Fear and discouragenment, lack of faith and frustration.. Those are from Satan.

“My message to you today, my brothers and sisters, is simply this: the Lord is in control. He knows the end from the beginning. He has given us adequate instruction that, if followed, will see us safely through any crisis. His purposes will be fulfilled, and someday we will understand the eternal reasons for all of these events. Therefore, today we must be careful to not overreact, nor should we be caught up in extreme preparations; but what we must do is keep the commandments of God and never lose hope!”

-. Russell Ballard, “The Joy of Hope Fulfilled,” Ensign, Nov. 1992, 31

('today we must be careful to not overreact, nor should we be caught up in extreme preparations...never lose hope!')

I also noticed that listening to quiet instrumental hymns while doing homework REALLY calms me down. It's now my new favorite thing! Try-it when you're having a long hard day. You'll feel better. I promise.

a plethora of goodness...

2011-10-13T00:03:00.002-06:00

hahahahaha.. oh wow.. some people.......

Just to clarify, I belong to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. No, I am not a member of a cult.

and now I'm confused... and amused... aren't these the same church??

Robert Jeffress' Church (First Baptist Church)
try it and let me know how it goes

mormon.org

I am a Christian

I am not a Democrat

(I hope no one is offended by this... I think it's hilarious!)

Thanks Amber for posting this

and.... though this is rather impressive... I still hate science

wish me luck on my FOUR tests that I have to take between tomorrow and next Tuesday. Thank you midterms-you are practically like finals week only... I still have to go to classes and I don't have any reading days. Information Systems 201, Human Development, Physical Science, Statistics. Lovely.

oh, and it AWESOME news (legit post coming soon)

MY AMAZING LITTLE BROTHER SY GOT HIS
MISSION CALL
(read more about what that means here)

TO THE LIMA PERU NORTH MISSION

HE DEPARTS FEBRUARY 29TH, 2012

(yes on the leap year day which I think is cool)

one more awesome 'good news minute'
MY LOVELY KATIE GETS MARRIED IN ONE WEEK!!!!!
her dress is perfect
pictures coming soon (well after next Thursday)

well that's all for tonight
I just printed off my 8 page paper for Human Deveolpment and I'm off to another 4 hour night of sleep. Thank you BYU. and education. It's all worth it in the end right?!

Taylor Swift Concert aka best night of my life

2011-10-08T19:57:00.001-06:00

Tal and I at the Taylor Swift Concert

-literal sparks flying-

1.Sparks Fly

2.Mine

3.Story of Us

-tap dancer-

4.Our Song

"You guys are nice people, I like you alot, I really really like nice people"

5.Mean

6. Back to December

(added Apologize in the background and ended with You're Not Sorry)

7.Better Than Revenge

8.Speak Now

-walked through the crowd to this tree-

9.Fearless

(played on ukelele) with I'm Yours added to the end

10.Last Kiss

11.Neon Trees-Animal Cover

-walked back to stage-

12.You Belong With Me

-sat on steps and had more fireworks-
"I'm shining like fireworks.."

13.Dear John

-Ballet pas de deux to instrumental Enchanted-

14.Enchanted

-notice the acrobats from the bells-

15.Haunted

16.Long Live

"The crowd you've been tonight, that's the crowd we wish for."

Encore

17.Ours

18.Fifteen

-flying balcony, more acrobats and gold confetti-

19.Love Story

Talyn and I were a little excited!

Oh, and if you are a smoker...think twice (thank you bathroom stalls haha)

and if you plan on stopping at McDonald's for fries, a McFlurry, and a yogurt parfait....
They may be out of ice creams and yogurt parfaits...
and call you hun.
no bueno.

fyi most images found online through google images...

remembering...

2011-10-08T12:44:00.001-06:00

As I was looking though my archives for something about FIT I needed for a paper I am writing I stumbled across this post that I wrote....

I actually amaze myself sometimes....
I did not realized how much fun I used to have and how happy I was..
I did not realize how close I was to the Spirit and how much faith I had.
I am glad I was reminded.
I need it back.

haha well now that I sound depressed... I will just link to that post and you can read for yourself some uplifting material that sadly I have not made time for recently on this blog....

the LORD is my light. by bree lena September 2009

rainy days...

2011-10-06T20:22:00.000-06:00

Today is the BEST DAY OF THE YEAR.

If you know me, you know that for me to sing and dance in the car on the way to school at 8am is a rare occasion...but today that is what I did.

IT'S FINALLY COLD.

and rainy.

and it snowed!

I am happy.

I love it.

sweaters.

boots.

coats.

scarfs.

layers.

It makes me just want to cuddle up on the couch with a big blanket, a fireplace, and some hot chocolate. I know many hate today. but I find it refreshing and perfect. I am in a much better mood and I love the dreary, stormy weather.

It is perfect.

BYU Campus (picture stolen from Emily's blog)

and this is outside my window

Rainy day outfits from this week...

Tuesday:

Shirt and Cardigan: J.Crew

Jeans: Hudson

Boots: Sperry TopSiders

Watch: Michael Kors

Wednesday:

Sweater: Gap

Boots: Sperry TopSiders

Glasses: Forever 21

Sparkle Tank and Pants: J.Crew

Watch: Michael Kors

Thursday:

Shirt: Gap

Pants and Necklace: J.Crew

Sweater Jacket: Free People @ Flower Basket

Belt: I've had since I was a little girl.... probably The Children's Place haha

Shoes: Sperry TopSiders @ J.Crew

Watch: Michael Kors

AND my new pair of Sperry's!!!

my Sperry's: 2/2008, 8/2009, 12/2009, 6/2010, 5/2011, 9/2011

I tried to spend the first snow fall day of the season getting a bread bowl of Cheese and Broccoli soup from Kneaders...but they were out of bread bowls... so I had my sourdough bread on the side. I was sad. But it was good. Along with their amazing raspberry bread pudding. I think I'll end the night with apple cider and start tomorrow with hot chocolate.

actually I never actually saw snow fall... I just knew it happened. I was locked up at class, in the library, or at work when it snowed/hailed. I was caught in the rain though-which I love!

I am so excited for the yummy goodies that come about this season.

Love you Emma!

2011-10-06T11:32:00.000-06:00

"I find the whole concept of being ‘sexy’ embarrassing and confusing. If I do an interview with photographs people desperately want to change me - dye my hair blonder, pluck my eyebrows, give me a fringe. Then there’s the choice of clothes. I know everyone wants a picture of me in a mini-skirt. But that’s not me. I feel uncomfortable. I’d never go out in a mini-skirt. It’s nothing to do with protecting the Hermione image. I wouldn’t do that. Personally, I don’t actually think it’s even that sexy. What’s sexy about saying, ‘I’m here with my boobs out and a short skirt, have a look at everything I’ve got?’ My idea of sexy is that less is more. The less you reveal the more people can wonder. - Emma Watson