Rad Rachel

Internship.

2012-01-26T19:12:00.001-07:00

WELL, it's official. I've started my internship! Finally. The week before I started my voluntary captivity, I went to Ogdizzle and spent a few days with miss and griff. Can I just say I love being an aunt?

Back to my captivity-- It's gone really well so far. Like really well. In fact about a jillion times better than I expected. Having a room I call my 'office' may have something to do with this. I'm working with girls youth and they are always exciting. You never know what you're going to get. They may hate you one day and the next you are their bestest friend on every continent. Keeps things so thrilling. Speaking of thrilling, I'm teaching them the thriller dance in a few weeks (chels I need you here to teach with me!) We get to do so many cool activities with them. Once a week we take the girls skiing, which is pretty awesome. Another thing that's awesome is taking pictures of myself looking like a duck while waiting for the girls to go to the bathroom.

The first week of work I met a sweet girl in my new employee orientation. After we exchanged a bit about each other she asked where I lived. We found out we live just down the street from each other. She then asked how I get to work everyday, I told her I walk and she immediately offered to drive me everyday. Ummm wha?

Can you say biggest tender mercy of my life? I Can. I can't even tell you how much of a blessing it's been to not walk to work in the dark or walk home when I'm exhausted. I think I owe her some sort of a fruit basket or something. Notice the darkness/cold/beautifulness.

At work we have deer everywhere! It is so crazy cool. All the sudden you will look up and around 20 deer will be standing right in front of you. You look at them like what the hay are you doing here! And in their brain they are asking you the same question. It's great until you walk through the grass had have to dodge millions of pellets of poo. Sometimes I take pictures of these herbivores... and then sometimes they run from me. Typical.

Well, that about wraps up my life. Work, work and more work. However, I will admit that I have been attending a few games recently for a certain team that I'm not so certain I want to support. I just don't think my mouth and vocal cords will ever work together to yell the words, "go cougars." Seriously. Such a dilemma.

Do you know what tomorrow is??????

TGIF!

2012.

2012-01-05T22:02:00.000-07:00

New Years Eve.
Fun with Ma & Pa

Let's not hate on the pigeons. It's not like they're seagulls or anything. Feed the birds, tuppence a bag.

How cute are those? Pop saw them first.

I couldn't decide if this fruit looked absolutely delectable/perfect... or fake.

Umm hi can I please put my face in that grease?

KACIE!

How come no one is drinking the obama blend?

Potbellys. Bekah, this ones for you!

Welcome to every single food place in WA.

Goodbye Seattle!
...............................................................................
Quote for the new year:
“This year, mend a quarrel. Seek out a forgotten friend. Dismiss suspicion and replace it with trust. Write a letter. Give a soft answer. Encourage youth. Manifest your loyalty in word and deed. Keep a promise. Forgo a grudge. Forgive an enemy. Apologize. Try to understand. Examine your demands on others. Think first of someone else. Be kind. Be gentle. Laugh a little more. Express your gratitude. Welcome a stranger. Gladden the heart of a child. Take pleasure in the beauty and wonder of the earth. Speak your love and then speak it again.”
― Howard W. Hunter

And now for my new years resolution.
- Pass the NCTRC (National council for therapeutic recreation certification) Exam.

CHECK!!!
Well, that was easy. Guess I'm officially goaled out for 2012. Jealous much?

Ah, tomorrow is Christmas... it's practically here!

2011-12-24T20:38:00.000-07:00

Happy Christmas!!!

Jolly Leavenworth.

2011-12-22T17:41:00.000-07:00

Last week I made it home for Christmas break. T'was quite the adventure, but alas I am home. Hooray hoorah! The day after I arrived home, Marmie, Shib and I made a festive trip to Levenworth! Now when I say this was a festive trip, I'm not kidding. Levenworth, WA has been named one of the top Christmas towns in America. Soo not kidding. It's joyful and triumphant.

Something very unique is the town's appearance. In order to have a business there, you have to support the Christmas-cutsieness-German theme. This includes all the food places, gas stations, hotels, and even post office! The 76 gas station was cooperating adorably. I love it.

found here

The Nutcracker shop was intense! Seriously every nutcracker you could imagine. Including Frankenstein. One of my favs was Moses with the 10 commandments.

Gingerbread bakery.

1st we saw the impostor Clause...

And then we saw the legit Father Christmas.

Father (scary) Christmas asked us if we'd been good before giving us an apple. Of course us children were good, but we were hesitant if mumzie would get an apple....

Don't worry, Granny got a granny.

On our way out of town we had to stop at the authentic German bakery so marmie could speak in her native tongue and so we could eat more carbs- which we didn't think was possible. Pretzels!

To conclude this festiveness, I'll leave you with only my favorite song/music video ev-er.

Can you say 90s?

ps In case you didn't know, I totally got this CD for Christmas when I was 10 and listened to it every second I could until Valentines Day when my family made me stop for annoyance purposes. It still holds a special place in my heart.

SLC & Christmas Spirit.

2011-12-06T13:15:00.001-07:00

I love temple square. Like, a LOT. It really is one of my favorite places on earth. I've been blessed enough to go a few times the past month. First, my cute friend Alyssa got married to her beau FOREVER. I don't know if you know, but that's kind of a long time. They were stinking cute.

On Sunday I went to the Christmas Devotional with my friend Nater. We've had sort of a tradition of going over the past few years. This was year number four! Crazy cool. At Christmas time they go all out and make it the most beautiful place. I love that. I love that they put so many hours of hard work just so we can enjoy it for the few minutes or hours we're there. This time I decided to only take one picture. That way I could walk around and just enjoy the prettiness and not worry about my pictures turning out just right. Good idea if you ask me.

I thought the messages were extra good this year and so applicable. You can listen to them here.

If you're looking for something to get you more in the CHRISTmas spirit, this is a little study schedule I heard about/started last Christmas season and needless to say, it's awesome! If you want to grow closer to Christ, try studying His attributes each week. It will help your understanding to increase and your testimony to grow. Trust me, I've done it.

Ps this was a little plan a mission president came up with. Hence the mentioning of a 'companion.' But hey, if you're married, BAM there's your companion :)

pps. USE Preach My Gospel! It goes over each attribute with definitions, quotes and scriptures. It is such a treasure even if you're not serving a full time mission. Hi, I'm not!

ppps. Yes, the days are last years so you'll have to adjust it a bit. And if I was you, I would start from the beginning. It's cool to start with the foundational attributes and move your way up. Again, trust me on this one.

Now, let's all get ready for Christmas. Yes? Yes!

3 Small Children.

2011-11-22T16:46:00.001-07:00

Want to know what the best combination is?

Fine dining
+
Professional photography
+
Siblings

Miss and Cordy, where are you?!

Hope you all have a Happy Thanksgiving with family and friends. I sure love mine!!

Love, Rachel

Attn: Marmie & Pop

2011-11-14T14:45:00.000-07:00

(love)

Update.

2011-11-11T12:55:00.000-07:00

As of Late. Camera phone/alphabet style.

g.

h.

o.

p.

q.

r.

a. Remember how carrot juice looks/sounds NAST but really it's so good/healthy for you? Thank you DI for the much wanted juicer. Only 8 doll hairs for bliss!
b. Welcome to temple square... why thank you.
c. Can I just say I'll never get over how much I love this place?
d. I cried when these came. Marmie is only the nicest mummy in the whole wide world.
e. When the hay did he get so big?
f. Silk Nog = Gag Nog. Miss you Kirsten :)
g. New fav do
h. Why yes, I am intelligent. And you are?
i. CES fireside. Elder Nelson and his wife are the 3rd and 4th from the left and President Packer and his wife are the 5th and 6th. SO COOL!
j. Ummm remember how the prophet comes and speaks at BYU for their devotionals?? THE PROPHET PEOPLE. So neat and I was so there 2 1/2 hrs early.
k. Naters fun visit/gelato for the first time since Italy!
l. Can he be any cuter?
m. Behind the court chairs, in the blue sweatshirt, walking out.... can you guess who that little star might be? Fredette about it.
n. A kind stranger sharing his umbrella for about 20 min with our wet roommate. How sweet is that?
o. Love this place.
p. HAPPY DAY!! My vote is a girl. Totally.
q. Does this just say perfection? Minus of course the fact that we're celebrating Christmas now.
r. Happy birthday buddy! No I didn't purchase candleS for the cake, but he did blow out a candle. That works right?

I am blessed. This song has been on repeat recently. Enjoy.

Happy Weekend!

PS Congratulations Brent & Janelle ! I am so excited for you three :)

Happy Harvest Day!

2011-10-31T13:03:00.000-06:00

I've decided that Halloween (or Harvest Day as mumzie would say) is wonderful purely because of the apples in season. A few weeks ago I was able to go help pick a gazallion apples at an apple orchard. It was so festive and fun. I loved it and decided I am most definitely having an orchard when I grow up. Orrr at least 1-3 BIG trees. Let's be real.

Then I got to go see this little guy and my fun sister Ashlee - check out her blogland. It's adorable is all!

We put some of the apples to good use. Missy (Ashlee) bakes an amazing apple pie. For reals, we're all jealous of her skills. Luckily she agreed to teach me quite late at night because I was leaving in the morning, hence the jammies. And this was our amazing result!

You're salivating right?

Then I came home and made more scrumptious apple things: Apple Betty.

I forgot to take an after picture of both. But I think it's safe to say this is EXACTLY what it looked like in the end.

Right.

Marmie's Apple Betty is the best. And here's how the magic is done. Am I really putting a recipe on my blog? This is a historical event people!

1+ cup old fashioned rolled oats
1 cup brown sug
1/2 cup flour
1 tea cinnamon
1/4 tea salt
1 cube butter, softened
appies
sugar

Mix all the dry ingredients together. Then coarsely mix in butter, then set aside. Peel, core and cut up about 8 or 9 apples, depending on the size. Pick apples that cook well and have some tartness. Put in baking pan, then sprinkle with a few tablespoons of granulated sugar. The more tart the appies, the more sugar you need. Mix it up a bit so all the appies are covered. Sprinkle the topping on the apples, covering them all. Bake at 350 for about 45 min. Serve warm with vanilla ice cream--you know.

Divine I tell you. Now go make it and give it away to someone! You'll be happy and they will be jumping for joy.

Hope you have a marvelous Harvest!

Recreational Therapy

2011-10-14T13:17:00.007-06:00

Exciting news! CNNMoney just ranked Recreational Therapy in the top 10 for

"Best Jobs for Saving the World." How neat is that?

The article reads:

Recreation therapists get people with disabilities, injuries or illnesses to engage with the world again through art, music and sports. They work in private, commercial, clinical or community settings. The job requires creativity and persistence, but it's gratifying when you see people move away from what they lost and focus on the abilities they do have. Says Shawna Hill, a recreation therapist who works with veterans: "To see empowerment in the individual is what keeps you going."

I Love Conference.

2011-10-05T12:20:00.000-06:00

Seriously, I don't think anything is better than going to general conference in Salt Lake City. For reals. This conference was especially great, why might you ask? Because I only got to see my favorite cousin in the whole wide world!!!

Kacie is my best cuz. We were roomies at school for a few years and then she flew out of my life and went on a mission to Japan and just got back in May. This was the first time I'd seen her since she'd been back and it was so happy. It felt like we had just been gone for summer break. Can you say glorious?

(No these are not alcoholic drinks. I repeat, not. Just the shear appearance of evil.)

Highlights:

Sitting close up plazie seats for the opening session of conference.

Asking Elder Jose L. Alonso (who gave this talk Saturday morning) on the street if he had any extra tickets Sunday afternoon. I obviously didn't realize who it was until after he answered, "I'm sorry, I just gave them away!" and then walked off. Wowww... sometimes I should actually open my eyes.

Finding the perfect photo op place in the family history center of the Joseph Smith building. How could we pass this up?

Driving around to 8 chapels within a 1 square mile radius in Pleasant Grove looking for a chapel broadcasting conference. You'd think that one of them would be open. And when exactly did Utah get so so so many chapels?

Seeing these two in love. Yes, I did use the word love.

Trying and loving Spam for the first time!

Hearing the gasps of the audience when it was announced there will be a SECOND temple in Provo, UT! I drove by the site the night it was announced and saw people had placed balloons and a banner across the fence in front of it that read, 'Happy Day!' So rad.

Watching how excited President Uchtdorf and President Eyring were when the Prophet finally walked in to conference Saturday morning an hour after it started. I literally thought they were going to jump out of their seats for joy.

Seeing my old roomies and friends. Not to mention APOSTLES!

(no, Shawnie was not an old roomie)

Listening to this solid talk by Sister Dalton, this smart talk by Elder Callister, and this sweet talk by President Uchtdorf. Oh, and How could I forget Elder Hales? This was powerful.

I could really go on and on, but I won't. We'll end by listening one of my favorite songs. I truly felt like this was an overwhelming theme this conference.

Until April.

RFTP.

2011-09-29T11:00:00.003-06:00

Rad Friday Thoughts Post. Duuude, be excited!

RFT 1.

Happy Birthday Pop & Court!!!

Hope your day is filled with butterflies, smiles, and fun. And hopefully your cake will look something like this.

or this

RFT 2.

So I live in Provo... crazy. That's really all I have to say. Actually I have a little more... I live in the top bunk of a bunk bed. Which I've pretty much avoided my whole life. All those years of making Shib take the top are finally catching up with me. Did I mention this one doesn't have a bar to stop me from rolling to my death at 3 am? Yesterday in my bedtime prayers I prayed I wouldn't fall to my death in the night. I think this will become a regular plea.

ps making your bed is like ridiculously difficult and dangerous on the top bunk. Shib, I'm starting to understand why your bed is the way it is... starting being the key word. Speaking of Shib...

RFT 3.

She likes to clean the tub in full-on pool gear. That's pretty neat.

RFT 4.

Wanna see something really neat!? Press play.

RFT 5.

Remember when you have a wretched head cold and so when you eat you have two options? One, you can either be gross and chew with your mouth wide open in order to breathe, or two, you can close your mouth like normal humans but then you risk suffocation. Well you see, I have a wretched head cold. And let's just say I've nearly died from lack of air several times already. What drugs help this? And can they be purchased at the BYU Creamery? Cause that's my store of choice. Cordy, this is kind of your department...

RFT 6.

Ms. Heidi is the bomb. She may or may not have posted this ad on the BYU bulletin board.

RFT 7.

Girls think Buddy is hot. What? When did this happen? Pretty sure that's why all the girls I've met so far have been really nice to me. Is it the van?

RFT 8.

I'm Schwinn Cycling certified! I really freaked out about my cert for nothing. Now, let's find a job. Yes? Yes.

And no I did not make them gather around for this picture- the instructor man did! Hence why it's rad.

RFT 9.

Conference is this weekend!! I am so excited it's not even funny. Watch it live here. And if you're looking for a bit of reading material, look no further. Click here. I really love this talk.

RFT 10.

Story of my life.

RFT 11.

"It's Friday, Friday!"

"Fun, fun, fun, fun! Lookin forward to the weekend!"

guess what? GUESS WHAT?

2011-09-22T18:25:00.001-06:00

Wanna hear the best news of my entire life?

I GOT AN INTERNSHIP!!!

Holy junk, you have no idea how long I've waited for this day. Please join with me in jumping for joy. This has been happening all day. Literally.

Now I'm moving to Provo. Duuude. Wasn't sure I'd ever say that one!

Goodwill Fun.

2011-09-10T22:45:00.002-06:00

Story: Tonight I went with Marmie to Goodwill. It's a common occurrence in this household. As I'm looking through the jeans aisle, this older woman (late 60s possibly early 70s) and I cross paths and she says, "Ah! I just want to find another pair of these jeans! (as she tugs on the jeans she's wearing) They're skinny jeans you know? And they're stretchy and they just fit perfect! Perfect I tell you. They're not too tight or anything." I'm just nodding and trying not to laugh that the 70 year old woman likes tight skinnies and wants to express it to the world. You go girlfriend! She continues, "The brand is Blue Bucket jeans... well, I think they are. Is that what it is? Are they?" (as she turns around and sticks out her buttock to me) I stare for a second at her butt in amazement that she's asking me and say, "Umm I can't tell." I have no idea what brand she's talking about. She continues, "Well here can you see?" (as she lifts up the back of her shirt a bit) Ummmmmmm, Wait. a. second. Am I supposed to really check the inside of her pants for her?! Really? She then lifts up the top of her shirt with one hand and with the other pulls down her pants a bit so I can see into her rear end area. I about die. As I'm looking at her lacy underwear I'm trying so hard to see the brand without having to tug on her pants. But with no luck (since she's wearing skinnies you know), I had to violate myself and tug on her pants/touch her lacy undies to barely see a blue b---- tag. I couldn't exactly tell what the second word was but responded as fast as I could "YEP. Blue Bucket! Welp, good luck on your hunt!" As I runnnn away. I found marmie and regurgitated the entire experience and she sympathized with me. Then about 15 minutes later marmie comes up to me and says, "Guess who just talked to me too!?" Yep. It was the skinny jeans granny. As they were playing the song "Whip My Hair" by Willow Smith (which I love) over the intercom thing, she walks up to marmie and says, "WHAT is she saying in this song???" Marmie answers: "I whip my hair back and forth" and the lady responds, "Ohhh.. I thought she was saying I wet my pants. I wet my pants."

We love goodwill. Can't wait to go back.

EFY Finale.

2011-09-05T10:00:00.006-06:00

Remember how EFY is over? Some Sundays I still wake up and think, "Oh shoot! I have so much to do before I leave for EFY tonight. Junk, did I wash my yellow polo!?" Then I remember that I actually have zero things to do because EFY is donzo, and then I'm kinda of sad... and then happy. All is well, my children are all on facebook with nothing better to do. Seriously, they'll leave comments on our group pages like,
"i'm bored. hi guys" or
"want to be back at EFY" or
"marching band = PAIN..................................... and more PAIN..."
I just laugh and sometimes tell them to get off and go read their scriptures or serve someone. I like being their fake mother.

Week 8. Company: Face Friends!

Dare I say, this was my favorite week? Yes, I dare say. I know, I'm a horrible counselor to pick favorites, and in my defense I didn't pick a favorite... until the last week. It was just so so great. My children, the musical program, my co counselor, my girlfriends, the variety show, etc. Did I mention not one of my girls had been to EFY before, and only like 2 of our boys had? Yes, it was the bomb. I will explain three of my favorite things this week:

Cruel and unusual punishment get-t0-know-you game. Hilarious is all.

1. Each week they repeat the same activities and programs for the kids. One of these being the musical program. I loved the musical program every week. It always brought such a sweet spirit into the room. The musical program consists of about 7 songs, 6ish solos, 8 speaking parts, and a slideshow with quotes and pictures playing in the background. Each week the counselors are assigned "duties." Like lunch duty, rover duty, variety show duty, musical program, passion patrol duty (personal fav), class duty, etc. etc. Well only 2 lucky counselors get picked to help with the musical program and until week 8 I had never been picked, but really wanted to be. Let me tell you, when I saw my name on the duty roster listed under musical program for week 8, I literally shouted and jumped for joy! It was that great. I'm probably biased, but I think it was one of the best programs of the entire summer. The kids really understood the importance of the messages they were singing about and brought a special spirit to that week/day. Such a blessing.

One of my shyest (or so we thought) girls majorly rapping.

2. Because I was assigned to musical program, I had to be gone at every lunch and free time. So being the tricky fake mother that I am, I somehow convinced half of my kids to be in the musical program and ALL of them to do an act in the variety show so I could be around them more. I'm proud to announce my children played the perfect Von Trapp family singers.

All the girls wrapped braids all around their heads and the boys rolled up their pants to look like knickers. Cutest/funniest thing of my life.

3. I don't know if you're aware but I love orange juice. Everyday for the entire summer I had at least 1 glass of OJ for breakfast and sometimes lunch too. However, the line for the juice was always horrendously long in the mornings. So everyday I would get my food, eat it and then go get OJ when their was no line 30 minutes later. I just don't have the patience for it. Story: Well Friday morning I was really really hungry/thirsty and I just really really wanted some OJ. So I decided to muster up some patience and waited in line for OJ before I sat down to eat. After waiting what seemed liked 30 min for my juice (probably only 10-15) I made it to the machine! I grabbed two cups, one for water and one for OJ. I decided to get water first and then juice. So as I'm filling up my water some girl from the cheerleading camp cuts the mile long line, (while refusing to make eye contact with me) grabs a cup and starts filling her cup with orange juice. By that time I'm done with the water and so bugged. I just bit my tongue and tried to say nice things in my head as I waited til she was done. Finally she finishes and the second she lifts her finger off the button the juice machine flashes "Out of Order! Refill!" I about died. It took everything in me to not run after that girl, grab her glass of orange juice off her tray, put it on mine and then kick her. However, I refrained because there were too many witnesses. Instead I just sat down and told my sap story to my children. They were kind and sympathetic and then we moved on. Fast forward to free time. I'm on the phone with someone about an internship in Hawaii and my girls waltz up to me and try to get my attention. I smile, wave and mouth Sorry, I can't talk. They give me a thumbs up and hand me a cup and a straw. I look at them confused and they mouth We got you orange juice! (with big smiles) I about started crying. It was such a small act of kindness but I I thought it was darling and one of the most thoughtful things of my summer.

The Girlfriends.

The Guyfriends.

Groupies!

An amazing week to end an amazing summer.

Happy Birthday Missy!

2011-08-18T21:00:00.010-06:00

Recent Random Facts:

I haven't eaten any desserts, candy or pop since July 23. Brinny and I are trying to become healthy or something.
I got a laptop! Hooray. Hoorah. But I think the best part about it is the cover. However, I ordered it thinking it was mint green... and now I'm not so sure.
I am officially a.... LIFEGUARD! I have the pruney fingers, dry skin, and chlorine filled hair to prove the loads of hours I spent in the pool this week. It was totally fun! And yes, I can save your life. Just don't make me resuscitate you on the pool deck, cause I about died every time I had to lay on that thing. Major major majorrrrr germs.
Need a laugh? Well this is great. And this. Oh my gosh and this!
I'm planning on running the best half marathon in the entire world next year (here's the map and info). You run through the castle!! I really can't think of anything happier or better than this. Really. The only problem is the race this year is on Sunday, which makes me think they'll plan next years on Sunday too. But have no fear, I'm sure after I send them a friendly letter saying they shouldn't, they'll change it and even let me pick the day. I'm sure of it.
Shibby is home!! Partyin Partyin Yeah!
AND most importantly: HAPPY BIRTHDAY MISSY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Recent Random Pictures:

I love this picture. I don't think I've ever seen Marmie drink such a sugary thing in my entire life. And she's smiling about it! THIS is history people!

The other night I was walking and discovered MY restaurant. How rad is that? You can start calling me Racha.

This day was bomb. We went jet skiing, wake surfing (I failed at this) and then topped it off with 4 wheeling. Can you say awesomeness overload?

Ikea is heaven. When I saw these I instantly wanted to decorate a ninos room! Missy? Court?

Sometimes the sickly pair and I go to target. Primary to get out of the house and to ride in the not fully charged motorized cart. What a sweet old lady..

Out to the ballgame. This chunky little guy is baby griffy. He's huge!

Geek and I enjoy being festive in Sears.

Tinfoil dinners are literally my favorite thing. Ever.

Shib has a pet rooster that follows her around/loves her/tries to eat her. She looks like she's not scared, but the reality is her heart rate spikes 50 BPM every time she sees that feathery creature.

We like the lake. But mostly the dock.

Have I mentioned it's summmerrrrrrrr?

EFY 7: Choice, Choice, Choice!

2011-08-13T14:24:00.007-06:00

Week 7. Company: The Choice

I'm going to fill you in on a little secret. EFY isn't perfect. Whoa, I just blew your mind huh? I know. It blew my mind too. Some weeks you have really easy youth and great lessons and everything flows naturally and smoothly. Others you have to work really hard the entire week to get that flow going. This was one of those weeks. Of course it always ends great, but that doesn't mean it comes effortlessly. There's a lot of behind the scenes that people don't see. Good thing for tender mercies! Small example: This first picture is probably the best picture I have from the entire summer. And it came from one of my most difficult weeks. I'm in love! Enjoy photo album week 7.

"We can dance, we can dance, everybody look at your hands..."

There's always at least one charmer walking around handing out napkin roses with his number written on the stem. This boy had himself and entire bouquet for the night!

Two of my squirmy cute little guys did the haka for the variety show. Scary faces and all. It was awesome/hilarious!

Week 8/Last week ever coming your way!

Baby Beckett

2011-08-11T23:32:00.011-06:00

Baby Beckett Flynn

(yes, like Flynn Rider from Tangled)

Uncle Buddy

Auntie Rachie

Pop

Granny

Hooray!!!

I was like baby, baby, baby, oooohhh

2011-08-11T10:00:00.006-06:00

So guess what? It's story time: Yesterday my sister Cordy tells me I should come over to help make her blog cutesified, like I know how do that! So as we're blogging away Court says umm yeah... oowwww.. I'm in labor. Of course she's lying since we've been joking all day that the dang baby won't come already! Then 4 minutes later, OOwww.. yeah.. ok I'm labor. Umm alright... so now what the hay do we do? So she tells me to grab a pen and paper and start writing down the pain times. Little do I know that labor actually takes on average 8 hours of just painful waiting before you even have the blessed child. All I have to say is, are you for reals!? Do women seriously put themselves through this? Why yes, yes they do. And thank goodness! Continuing on, so after about 20 minutes Court says the quote of the evening. Not, SHOOT let's go to the hospital! Or CRAP call Taylor! Or DANG IT this hurts! No, no, instead she calmly says,

"Oh great, this means I should probably put on makeup huh?!"

Yes, that is my sister. And yes, she had a baby... while looking hot. They named him Beckett. Auntie Rachie is going to call him Beckham. Here's a little song for you to get you in the baby spirit! I can't stop singing it. Not kidding.

EFY 6: Grove of Forests.

2011-07-24T13:10:00.000-06:00

Week 6. Company: Honorable Heroes

This week started out as one big challenge and ended up being a great blessing. Our company was 38 16-18 year old kids, my biggest group yet. In this group I had a blind boy, a boy that only spoke Spanish, three ADHD friends, and a handful of kids that really needed special attention and one girl on Monday that announced she did not want to be there... and she showed it. On Sunday my cos and I joked that the last time I had a 3 co counselors (in Provo) my girl co got sick and it was pretty much wretched holding down the fort with just two counselors. They all felt so bad and swore to not die on me. The next day my girl co/roommate was deathly ill and Tuesday my guy co got sick. There was literally a pandemic going around the camp and about 75% of the counselors became sick. Luckily, I was not one of them. Though this made things a little tricky, I felt like everything went really smoothly given the circumstances. All the kids were great and really understanding. All I can say is prayer is amazing and the Spirit will always be the best teacher. Always. These two things truly saved us this week.

Please notice the string and pet leaf following behind. "Bilbo" was apart of every activity.

See the second girl in on the left? Black shirt? She was our Taylor Swift lookalike! Not kidding, she was legit. I never used her real name. She was T Swift to me all week.

Mason was our poly. Am I allowed to say that? He always always always had his headphones in. The first day I asked him a few different times what he was listening to and he would quickly grab his ipod, change it, and then show me mo tab. I told him he didn't have to listen to mo tab for it to be efy or church appropriate. After that he would run up to me at different times throughout each day and say, "Rachel, ipod check!" It would always be some sweet Hawaiian ukulele thing. This was always followed with a 5 second dancing session. He was awesome.

(Please notice Cameron in the middle. Epic.)

Welp, that's all for now. I hope your Sunday is fantastic. If you want to watch a sweet mormon message, press PLAY! We watch this every week at EFY and I think it's well said/done.

EFY 5: Tackama 2.

2011-07-23T09:40:00.003-06:00

Week 5. Company: Do Not Perish

One of my favorite parts about this week was the cheer off. We rocked it. My kids came up with a brilliant skit where they would redo death scenes from popular movies and change the scenes so the people live instead of die. Hilarious. They redid the end of Titanic when Jack's in the water, some fighting scene from Star Wars, and Romeo and Juliet. The titanic one ended with Jack being saved by dolphins, the Star Wars one they turned the fighting scene into a joke, and the Romeo and Juliet one was by far my favorite. Juliet tried to stab herself but kept accidentally missing, then Romeo wakes up to stop her and they decide to go out to dinner instead of killing themselves.

This is on the pathway we take multiple times a day. Welcome to the forbidden forest or Twilight. Take your pick.

Cutest girls ever.

This boy's name was Collin. The first day I asked if I could call him Mr. Collins. He had no idea why, but he accepted. It was SO great. At the end of the week I told him to go home and watch pride and pred. He's probably going to hate me after he does.

He might have been my child from another week... hmm. Oh well!

My face in this photo is very honest.

Random cool/brave girls from the dance.

Ok. Does anyone recognize this girl???!??!? Cherie, you've gotta! Story: a month ago I heard that Bree from the Twilight movies came to EFY last year in WA and that it's a possibility she'd be here again this year. DUDE. I was shocked. So I told all the counselors I was with that if she came they would have to tell me (she likes to keep it hush hush and not very many people usually know unless they recognize her) because I'm a total fan! They agreed. Fast forward to this specific EFY week on Thursday night during testimony meeting. Thirty minutes into the meeting, BREE STANDS UP TO BEAR HER TESTIMONY. Holy junk I almost went into fan girl mode and started screaming. No one even told me she was there!! Long story short, I went up to her secretively at the dance Friday night and the first thing she said was "oh shoot, I was nervous you were going to bust me for modesty." Humorous. We had a good little chat about life, Edward, and then I got a happy picture. OH and now we're friends on facebook. Because yes, she is an efy child so that's allowed. Sccooorrreeeee!

And we're not done...

EFY 4: Hogwarts.

2011-07-21T19:45:00.008-06:00

The past three weeks have been super. I've found that each place I've gone to has it's own uniqueness. Whether it's the types of kids we get, the campus, cell phone reception (or lack of), teachers, creepers, food, weather or all the above. Though my stomach wants to die everyday from all the food (especially in Tackama) it's been pretty much the greatest.

Week 4. Company: Works & Wonders.

This first week I had some really really fun kidlets. On Tuesday night at the dance my boys started this joke where they would run up to me literally every 20 seconds to scream 'Rachel!' in my face and hold up their ripped wristbands. At first I told them "Sorry, dudes. I'll get you another one tomorrow, go find some tape or safety pins in the mean time" and then after the 10th time of them running up to me, I took their wristbands and put them in my back pocket. They had two options, 1. shut it or 2. violate me and grab the wristband out of my pocket. Shocker, they didn't pick either option. Instead they continued to throw their wrists into my face and scream Raaaaachel even louder for the remainder of the night. After that night alllll my kids caught on to this funny display and started using "Rachel, Rachel, Rachel" for every team cheer. I felt so stupid at games night when they wouldn't yell our real company name- Works and Wonders. All the other counselors and leaders probably thought it was so low for me to have my kids chanting my name every second. Oh well. By Friday I had bribed them with gum to cheer our guy counselors name too. Which was very good. All the kids in this group grew really close (some a little too close) and it's hilarious to see their comments they leave on each others fb walls now that they're home. They want to have group reunions every weekend. I love em, but I personally find this excessive. Call me a snot if you will.

My wristband boys.

Yes, that is my boy. And yes, he went up 10 notches on the radness scale when he got up on that stage in those tights.

Most weeks I tell all my girlfriends my almost first kiss stories and my "first kiss" story. Their reactions are seriously priceless. This was on Friday night before my first kiss story...

This was Friday night after my first kiss story... ticked and depressed. Funniest thing of my life.

After looking at these pictures do you think this campus looks slightly like Hogwarts? Or a lot like Hogwarts?? Because I feel like the staircases are going to change every time I walk down them. One thing is certain, this campus is not for muggles.

Fahee.

2011-07-20T16:34:00.011-06:00

This week I'm having a break from the ninos. It's been quite relaxing. Yesterday was a fun day. I first woke up and there was a deer outside of my window. Like, literally right outside my window. It was crazy cool. I named it Bambi. How original.

Then marmie and I went to go find some treasures at Goodwill. I found this butte of a bowling bag. Marmie said it was the most hideous thing she'd ever seen. So I bought it.

For family night we decided to be festive! We cleaned out our fire pit in our backyard so we could have tinfoil dinners and roast mallows. The people that lived here before us left some pretty interesting/heavy stuff in that pit. I think my muscles grew 5 inches in 20 minutes. Just sayin. Here's mum preparing our luscious dinners and Bud trying to conjure up a fire. I just kept my mouth shut. Well, for as long as I could at least.

While the dinners cooked, Bud, his friend and I went down to the lake and played for a bit. When I say played, I mean they jumped in while I rode around in the paddle boat. Fish and I don't mix. When we got back the party began.

Bud the thug.

I purposefully made this the most attractive picture I've ever taken. Have I mentioned I like sugar? And doing my hair like a 5 year old? Cause I do. Britt, you're with me right?!

T'was quite festive if you ask me. I think I would be happy doing this every Monday night for the next forever. Minus the stomach ache from all the crapola I ate. Yeah, maybe next time we'll invite more people. That way we won't feel like we need to eat all the junk ourselves. Hmm... or maybe I'll just feed it to Bambi. He needs friends too! Yes to Bambi.

Efffy

2011-07-08T15:30:00.001-06:00

So my children are currently packing and I just found a computer lab in my dorm and am super excited.

1. Because I didn't really use my brain when I packed my clothing for EFY in Washington and have found out from 1st hand experience that if you don't own a raincoat and carry it with you at all times, you're so dumb. Yes, I am so dumb. And after searching online for the past bit, I found out I'm also dumb for thinking I could find a cheap North Face jacket. You know, for under $70. It's so ridiculous. We're talking a simple rain shell people!

2. Because I've been wanting to post this song on my blogland for the past few days. And if no one but Chels enjoys this, I'll still count that as a success. Listen to the words; they're powerful.

3. Lastly, guess where I'm going tomorrow?

Yep. The Portland, Oregon temple. How happy is that? I think this makes my dream count to 11.

Well, time to go and make sure my girls aren't painting ketchup murals all over their walls or making out with boys in the bathroom. Kidding. My girls are so sweet/good this week. Actually, every week. It's the boys you have to worry about....

Happy Friday, Friday.

Love, Rachel

PS speaking of Twilight... I'll have super super exciting news to share soon.
Here's a hint: I've met a celebrity this week!!!

Sunday Study: A Test.

2011-07-03T14:00:00.000-06:00

EFY is still great. No time to really breathe, but so great. I really cannot believe we are now in the month of July. As in, tomorrow is the 4th of July. Whaaat? That's crazy talk. Nonetheless...

(cute random EFY participant)

God bless America!!

I haven't done a Sunday Study thought for a while. Not because I don't have a single thought going through my head, quite contrary, I have about 34 billion thoughts and lessons I've learned the past 4 weeks from EFY. It really is so much to swallow in one weeks time. But something I've learned more on this week and really focused on is that this life is literally a test. I had the epiphany to relate this to the ACT test. Think about it, it's a timed test, it has different sections (some harder than others), sometimes you really want to quit, sometimes you feel like streak of hard questions will never end, sometimes you feel like you're totally owning that test, and sometimes you wonder if all the studying and work during it is worth it. But in the long run, you know that completing that test will help you to move forward to bigger and greater things in college. It's a necessity.

This life is a test. You voluntarily agreed to come down to this earth and follow God's plan. This time on earth is not going to last forever, in fact it really short in comparison for what's to come. At different times in our lives we feel like we're smooth sailing; nothing too bad. Then the science section comes along and you feel like your bad streak is never going to let up. But when we look at the big picture, we can have faith that all our hard work will be worth it. In fact, if we didn't have to work hard to receive blessings after this life, receiving them wouldn't be as sweet.

Alma 34:32-34
Romans 8:16-17

Enjoy one of my favorite songs from the EFY CD this year. It's soo pretty. It's called He Knows Me Better.

Hope you have a glorious 4th of July week and remember you and I are being tested. And that's a good thing.

Let me just start by saying,

2011-06-23T10:25:00.007-06:00

EFY is the bomb. Seriously. What can be better than playing with a ton of kids your own age while strengthening your testimony of Christ for one week? You're right, nothing. This program is definitely inspired and needed in this time and I have been blessed to be apart of it.

As a counselor I have had the cutest/sweetest kids known to man. I sure love them. Below is an overview of the past 3 weeks. Warning: this is an awesome picture overload.

Week 1. Company: Clean Hands Pure Heart.
For our cheer we would walk around and swing our hands above our heads from side to side and sing "I whip my hands back and forth, I whip my hands back and forth." (like we were washing them) The chorus of this song was our inspiration for all cheers.

* Just kidding I took it off because it would automatically start playing and I couldn't change it. Annoying. So go google "Whip my hair" and you'll be excited with what you see. *

I should count the amount of times she says "I whip my hair back and forth." And don't worry Willow Smith, the girl that sings this, is like 10 years old. Not joking. So young to start this nonsense. Even if it does have a sweet chorus.

We parkoured all week long. On the way to every meal, waiting for girls to show up, end even while standing in line for food.

They made me flowers. How presh.

One day we saw the missionaries while eating lunch and I dared my boys to run up to them and just start talking. Of course they did. I was the proud mother running behind them taking pictures.

This was 'Bieber and the boys.' They weren't in my group, but they were pretty much the funniest kids I've ever met. Justin Bieber is obviously the one in the middle wanting to kiss me.

My Co Counselor started this thing with my boys where they would constantly steal my stuff and see who could steal the biggest things without me noticing til it was gone. They got REALLY good at it. By the end of the week they had stolen my water bottle (50+ times), my sweater, shoes, glasses, backpack (I loved it when they stole that heavy beast) and countless other things. He also trained them to attack me at random moments during the day the moment he yelled "NOW!" Yeah... they got really good at that one too. I did a lot of running all week. So naughty. And so fun.

Week 2. Company: Heart Turners.

Please note my co counselor girl's face in this picture. I love it.

These dances were the best. My children rocked it.

Friday breakfast. Best meal of the week. The fruit and the donut cancel each other out, right Mum?

Notice Lily in the dead middle texting. Hilarious.

Cos and Corbin. Shocker.

This week was super challenging for loads of reasons-- but even with all the junk, it was one of the best weeks! My company (boys and girls) was 16-17 year olds and they were soo fun! I must say, my 14 girls were the sweetest and most adorable good girls. In fact, I loved them so much that they were treated with detailed bed time stories every night about my "almost first kiss stories." Then on the last night we gave my bestie a phone call and they about died and went to heaven just hearing his voice. It was hilarious until my BC (building counselor) knocked on the door and wanted to know why my girls weren't in bed. I wasn't about to say "because we're hearing a story from a boy on the phone in Hawaii duh!" Yes, they were wonderful girls. Modesty issues and all.

Week 3. Company: The Heart Lookers.
They begged to be just "The Lookers." You can probably imagine why that name wasn't approved. They were humorous.

This session was a stay-at-home-session, which kind of made the whole be unified thing difficult. All the kids had thousands of friends in all the other companies and just wanted to play with them. Understandable. So after we noticed that the majority of our boys would hang out with our group if their buddy Matt (boy above) could come, we decided to be his "foster parents" and have him tag along whenever he could. He was a fun addition and I enjoyed being a foster mom.

Speaking of creepers... look at the window behind our children. I'm sure this fella just wanted to join in on the fun. He was probably yelling the cheers with us outside his window. Thanks man.

The girlfriends.

I was pointing to her badge that said, "Heeeeey guess what? It's my BIRTHDAY!" She was so adorable and MATURE. I loved her.

Even though I missed the dances at Provo, I will say I had a lot of fun at these dances. 1: They were inside. 2: I figured out how to make boys dance with girls. Just look at them seriously and start counting down from 10. At first they look at you like what the heck are you doing, and then by the time you're at 7 they're running to grab a girl to dance with. What'd they think I was going to do? Slap them?!? It worked every single time, 3: I was the only one that knew a few of the EFY dances that we learned at Provo, so I got to be a star at all the dances. Cheetah girls being my fav. Best moment of my life is all! And finally 4: This little chicka was brushing her teeth with a pre-pasted toothbrush in the bathroom before the dance. I was so impressed with her awesome cleverness that I asked to take a picture of her. She wholeheartedly accepted. Why wasn't she in my group?

And it's a good thing this summer is not over yet or I would cry!

I'm an aunt!!

2011-06-21T19:04:00.010-06:00

Yes, you read that title correctly. This is pretty much the happiest news of my life. I am officially Auntie Rachie to the adorable Baby Griffin Grux- but we like to call him Griffy.

My sister Ashlee's due date was around the 4th of July but instead had him just over a week ago. He was a tiny 5 lb 15 oz. and was/is absolutely perfect. We're talking no cone head or funny marks or anything! He was born with tons of blond hair and all the nurses loved to come and see the 'blond baby' in the hospital. If I can be selfish for a minute, the timing of Griffy being born was so perfect for me! I had just ended my EFY week in Provo and was heading to Ogden to do an EFY session there the next week. It just so happened she had him in Ogden the day before I got there. I had never held a baby so new. He was perfect.

Auntie Shibby

The first 2 days his cry sounded like a squeaky cart rolling down the hall. It was hard not to just laugh. However, the squeaky cart sound has now changed. The other night he had his first bath... and well, he's still getting used to them. I think the flash is what set him off. Right marmie?

Don't worry, he's still the sweetest most perfect thing. Auntie Rachie is Hap Hap Happy!

Mucho Updates!

2011-06-20T14:00:00.000-06:00

I know you're all panicking. But don't! Because yes, I'm alive! I've been working as an EFY counselor the past few weeks and it's been absolutely great. I'm loving it. While I have a short break I'll try and update my life on this blogland. Hooray for blogging!

First things first:
HAPPY BIRTHDAY SHIBBY!!!!!!!!!!

You're pretty much the bestest/coolest/nicest/cutest/prettiest/funnest/raddest little seester ever. Not even kidding. Hope you have the best day ever in Rexy :)
Love, Woogie

Next:
Remember how I went to Hawaii like 3 years ago and promised a post on our hike like 4 years ago? Welp, here we go- I should have known by the hike's name "Crouching Lion" that this hike was going to be a doozy. After I got home, I googled a few different websites and blogs just to make sure I wasn’t a total woosy weenie about this hike. Nope, there were 1,000 foot drops on both side of the trail. I’m not crazy.

Because everything you read online is always 130% true, here is a direct quote from an online source. The hawaiimagazine.com says: “A warning before you go: the Puu Manamana Crouching Lion Trail is not a walk in the park. With a relentlessly steep elevation gain, the trail’s ascent and descent should only be attempted by seasoned hikers. The trail also traces some narrow ridges, with steep drops on either side."

Yes, thank you for the death warning, but you're a little late. And no I am not a seasoned hiker. Here's a play by play of the day.

1:00 Here Julie and I are excitedly walking up to the start of the hike. We had no idea what we were about to start.

The first part of the hike you're wondering for 30 minutes if you're even on a trail. It's just a bunch of bushes and brush you push your way through on your hands and knees. Here cute Vicky and Devin just got out of the small jungle.

Just a little ways past the first jungle was our first stopping point with an insanely cool view. I would have been happy to sit there the rest of the day.

After our picture fest, the real hike started.

These ropes were a total joke and totally saved our lives.

Yes, there were cliffs. I was very very glad at this point that I was not afraid of heights. Julie, I still don't know how you did it girlfriend! You rock.

Though things were very treacherous and crazy, the plants and flowers surrounding us the first few hours were simply beautiful.

Our little wild ivy, Vicky.

Then the second jungle started.

And then around 6, it got dark.

And then it was all downhill... literally. Like bad. I was a total negative nancy the last 2 hours and was just praying one of the helicopters that kept going by would just stop and take pity on us. But they didn't. On a happy note, the views were seriously stunning. I realized on this hike that I could just sit and stare at an ocean for hours and be completely content. Maybe next time that's what I'll do- hike 30 min or and hour and then plan to have a helicopter come pick me up. Sounds like the perfect plan.

I can't remember a time I was so happy to sit on a germie bench waiting for a bus and seeing cars driving by on a paved road. Did I mention this ended up being my first hitch hiking experience? And I didn't even get kidnapped!

8:00 ish The end. Thank goodness.

other updates to come:
I'm an AUNT! &
EFY is so cool

Hap Hap Happy!

2011-05-26T23:12:00.009-06:00

Want to know 2 reasons why I'm soooo happy?

1. Kacie Kitty comes home from her mission tomorrow!!!

And if that wasn't enough, 2. I get to be an EFY counselor next week!!!

(pictorials are AFY adventure. for. youth. last summer)

One of the differences between AFY and EFY is you get to make a Mormon message music video during the week at AFY. But trust me, I'm not heart broken that I don't have to stay up all Thursday night editing these! This video is from my very first group and it explains the hilariousness of my entire summer/week to come. *Note our 2 background dancers in every. single. scene.

Please tell me you're on top of your chair shouting for joy because of all this happiness?

Because I am.

"It's Friday, Friday"

2011-05-20T10:45:00.001-06:00

I hope you're excited because today is going to be a great day! Why you ask? Well first because you are being blessed with a RFTP. Rad Friday Thoughts Post. Coolness huh? Yes, I know. Let's get started.

RFT 1.
I woke up this morning at the nasty hour of 5:00 am and was amazed when I looked out my window and saw the SUN! Insane. Then I went outside at 5:30 and it was glorious I tell you! Just glorious. The sun shinning and there was a really pretty mist over the lake. Just like this:

I wasn't aware of this mystifying experience. Guess I don't get out much at 5 am.

RFT 2.
I tried some new Maybelline eyeliner this week and I don't really like it. It's the new red and black one with a boot on it. I should have known from the odd boot on the package. If you're looking for the best eyeliner ever, look here. It's still my favorite eyeliner by far and it's lasted me 3 years now (but that's probably because I only wear it 2-3ish times a week). However, it's ghastly expensive because you have to purchase the blooming brush too. Don't worry, I lost my brush last summer on some random field at AFY and still haven't gotten over it. Clearly.

RFT 3.
I just found this found this picture and I love it. It's so perfect.
Missy- I hope you're reading this post in b-donalds while eating something fattening and really good. Miss you. Court- What is this sun thing we keep seeing?? Walking and gap soon.

Speaking of the fam, Bud just requested to be on the blog.

Request granted. Sometimes we go to FHE together. I make him drive and I take pictures. Oh wait, that's every week.

RFT 4.
Need something uplifting to read? Try these two talks- 1 & 2. I just read them again this week and forgot how super excellent/happy they are!

RFT 5.
Newly found treasure from Goodwill. I've only wanted them for 10 years now. $5 and barely used. Hotttt.

RFT 6.
Yesterday I went on a date. Crazy, I know. Family, I'll give you a second to catch your breath again. Good? K moving on. So 7:15 comes around and Sr rolls up in this exact car...

And I started laughing when I saw it. Let's just say the rest of the night I felt like a total pauper. And for once, I liked it. I liked being poor! Because let's face it, expensive clothes, toys, and cars don't buy everything. A good reminder for me. Oh, and I'm not trying to be a snoot here-- Sr date was nice. As was his car. The end.

RFT 7.
Have any of you run in these before?? My vote is they're cool and I want to try some on.

RFT 8.
Ummm guess what I bought online this week?

WITH my prescription for a mere 25 doll hairs. This website may be my new favorite thing. Soooo happy.

RFT 9.
Speaking of my favorite things.

(courtesy of this cute girl)

Can we make t-shirts? Shib you in?

RFT 10.
Tomorrow is a very very very special day. Guess why?
BRINNY TURNS 23!!!!!

Hot dang you're cute. (yeah don't worry my computer is in some box in the basement along with all my pictures. Hence the 2 pictures I stole from your mummy's blog).

Holy Hannah you're so cool and so old. But not as old as Jaxon.

See you soon girlfriend!

Yes. Today is going to be a good day. Why might you ask? Well other than because you just read the RFTP... because It's FRIDAY!!

Peace out. I gotta go kick it in the front seat, or should I pick the back seat? It don't matter cause it's Friday, Friday.. fun, fun, fun, fun!

Yesterday/Today.

2011-05-13T22:12:00.012-06:00

So yesterday I mowed the lawn. Now don’t you go dying on me and think, common Rachel, are you really blogging about mowing the stinking lawn? Why yes. Yes I am. And here’s why.

Are you aware that I live in a forest? Oh, cause I do. Have you read/seen Twify aka Twilight? Picture a green damp meadow JUST like that meadow that Bella almost gets eaten in! Minus the pretty flowers that I’m pretty sure were majorly fake.

Can this picture get any more awkward??

Indeed it can. In cake form.

Are you seeing that Bella and Edward are waaay too close on this cake? DUde, her elbow is almost touching his upper arm! False depiction of what really happened. Anywaaays,

so that's where I live. I don’t hesitate saying I fear my life every time I walk outside. But when the moss started to look a little out of control, I took it upon myself to mow that sucker. And look how beautiful it turned out.

Not that I’m trying to be a negative Nancy or anything, but while mowing I ran into a few small problems.

Problemo #1 every time I took a step behind the lawnmower, I sunk into mud and made footprints.

Problemo #2 every time I turned the lawnmower, I made a new mud hole.

Problemo #3 every time I saw a new mud hole in the yard that I created, I felt like a total fatso.

Forget ever mowing that moss again. But if I must be a positive Patricia, which I must, please check out my beautiful view.

Everyday I have this urge to go splash around in the lake so it doesn't look so glossy. But I'm convinced if I did that some freakish lake creature thing would come and eat me. Not kidding.

Now for the "today" part of my post, here are some of my happenins from my rad adventures in Seattle… which happened today. Go figure!

Seeing beautiful flowers at pikes.

Almost having to pay to use the bathroom at Borders. What are we in Europe?!

Seeing the Ballard bridge go up and feeling like we were in Inception and there was a vertical road in front of us.

Buddy humoring me at Trader Joe's.

Randomly running into the 1st Counselors in the General Relief Society, Young Women's, and Primary Presidencies in downtown Seattle! Let me tell you, I was star struck. Can we please be best friends? Here's who they are if you forgot... I almost did!

And realizing I seriously need to learn how to play chess so I can play with these guys on the sidewalk with this jumbo Paul Bunyan chess set.

Well, that's all folks. Until next time, you stay classy San Diego.

And now for the main event. Part 1 of 2.

2011-05-05T13:00:00.005-06:00

The moment you've all been waiting for.....
HAWAII!!!
I know you're all crying from happiness right now.

Yes, this ridiculously amazing trip finalllllly came. And yes, it was ridiculously amazing. Here's the story: This past January my dear friend Julie told me she was planning a sweet graduation trip to Hawaii. She found tickets for $320 or 340 roundtrip and had friends to stay with on Oahu so no money needed for housing. She was recruiting a few close friends and told me I needed to come. Not going to lie, I thought she was a bunch of talk. I really didn't think this trip to paradise would actually come to pass. Not to mention, I haven't had the best feelings towards Hawaii since my last visit two years ago, so I wasn't completely convinced that I, Rachel Elise, needed to go.

The next day I see Julie on campus and she says, "Rachel, are you coming to Hawaii? We're buying our tickets tonight. This is not a joke! You coming?" Ummmm exsqueeze me?? You're actually serious? Tonight? So I told her I'll think about it. Well, it only really took about 1 day in the 15 degree weather with 20 mph winds in a skirt and majorly missing my bestie Jimmy for me to realize I was crazy not to go! So I got a ticket!! Best/worst decision of the semester. Why the worst you ask? Because alllll I wanted to do was go to Hawaii and get out of Rexburg. The whoooooole semester. Not good when you have 12 weeks of important schooling you MUST focus on for graduation. However, I'm happy to report I made it and finished the semester with flying colors! Well, for the most part.... curse Abnormal Psychology.

The few days leading up to our trip were crazy. I thought for sure I would have an aneurysm before I actually got on my vacation. Saturday I literally graduated, changed, ate, said goodbye and left for Portland Oregon to fly out oober early Sunday morning. Though it was all craziness, it was SO fun. Not only do I love being busy, but I was traveling with 4 other extremely excited people- Julie, Devin, Valorie/Vicky and Christina (who just needed a ride to Portland and we were happy to have her)!

Fast forward through the airport

The Rad Crew: Devin, Julie, Vicky, and moi.

When I stepped off the airplane the wave of humidity hit me and I immediately smiled. It felt soo good to be warm. The next 8 days went way too fast. I got to do some pretty amazing things I hadn't ever done before like ride around the entire island on a moped while it rained; drink a pina colada, it was even out of a pineapple; go to the beautiful Laie temple; play soccer along the beach; visit Disneyland in Hawaii aka the PCC; ride cruisers along a highway; hike a beast of a mountain with cliffs on both sides (will be discussed in part 2); kiss Jimmy everyday; visit pearl harbor; eat 4 hot dogs and 1 burger within a 4 day period, still gagging at the thought; take long walks on the beach, not really cause they were on the sidewalk a few blocks from the beach; and eat a shaved ice as big as my head.

Now that you've heard my entire life story, it's time for the photo album.

Monday. Tennis anyone?

Dave was for reals. He did not feel the need to rub in his sunscreen.

This is someones front yard. And these are fake flowers. Why on earth would you plant fake flowers when you live in Hawaii where flowers grow magnificently on their own!?

Tuesday. The blasted hike which you will hear/see in part 2.

Wednesday. Honolulu. Which equals bus, China Town, swap meet, pearl harbor, and more bus. Such an eventful great day!

I was standing while this Sr. was sitting. So I decided to take a sneaky picture of him. He looks like he's texting, but au contraire, he's sleeping! Guess he needed the seat more than I did.

Our driver reading the newspaper while driving us. Alright.

Sorry, but these crepes were actually better than the crepes I had in France. I told that lady that that made them. She was sweet, she smiled, and she didn't have a scary tumor in her cheek. You can see my first crepe experience here if you'd like.

This was in China Town. I was REALLY tempted to purchase some airline tickets at this booth thing. Come to think of it, I don't know why I didn't. I bet I would have gotten a slammin deal. Maybe she would have thrown in a free hair scrunchie too!

Please tell me you are seeing these hands sticking out of this display. Is this Halloween??

Sorry I don't have a ton of great pictures from Pearl Harbor. Though I thought the whole experience was so neat. My mind is still trying to comprehend that oil is still leaking underwater- you can see it in this picture. This definitely felt like hallowed ground.

Dinner. Seriously one of the best pizzas ever. Jimmy got the gross half and I got the good one.

Thursday. Going to the beautiful Laie temple and the humongously cool PCC.

Vicky... what cha doing over there in the distance alone... with that man??

Julie standing next to the McDonald's waterfall. Yes, the nugget super size fry place has a waterfall. Neato.

Friday. Jimmy scored us a moped we got to use all day Friday. We went around the entire island and stopped at all the must see places like Goodwill, Costco, and Walmart. Plus more duh. It was super sunny and we bragged about the weather, then it rained, and then we got hot chocolate. We loved it!! It was a total blast and definitely my favorite activity of the trip.

After our trip we realized we didn't take any pictures on the moped. So I made Jimmy get back on so I could take a picture. Doesn't he look so so cool??!

Saturday. Beach, lookouts, soccer and Kailua! Not a lot of pictures but this was a very good day.

The Pali lookout. Jimmy and I met some new friends here at at dinner. I guess you could say we're pretty popular on the island now. Just sayin.

Does this place look familiar to anyone? Yes, I've been here before.

Sunday. Church and mourning my departure.

Monday. Bike ride to Turtle Bay, more Costco hot dogs and flying home to Aspen.

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

Well, this is the end of the novel and photo album. You're a trooper for reading to this point. Really. Now if this was a real book, I would now give my thanks for all the people that made this possible.... and even though it's not, let's pretend.

Julie. You already know you're wonderful and I'm SO glad invited me for this ultimate adventure!
And I don't know when this was taken, but girlfriend you only needed 1/2 inch more!!

Jimmy's family (aka JIM, Keri, Jimmy, Daryl and Taylor). You were all so kind to let me invade your house for a week. I was so lucky to stay literally right next door to the temple and the BYUH campus! You're wonderful and I miss you all! Oh and Jimmy, I know you love the couch, so giving up your room, bed, and bathroom for 8 days wasn't a sacrifice at all. So I guess what I'm trying to say is... thanks? You know you're the best there is. 100%

Honolulu airport security man. No I don't know your name, but you do. You helped me check in, check my bags, go through security, and make my plane in 12 min. You have no idea how cool you are. Mahalo.
The end.
----------------------------------------

Oh, and if you've been freaking out since the beginning of this post from the "Kiss Jimmy everyday" comment (Cherie, I bet you were), don't worry, that was a fib. Sorry if hopes were up, but not really because that was my intention. We only kissed every other day. Oh wait, I wish. The every other day was a fib too. Right?

So the question is, when can I go back? Tomorrow? Rad.

Coming next: Part 2 of 2- The hike. Oh my.

WA.

2011-04-25T17:00:00.007-06:00

Besides being bored out of my mind, Washington is good. Last week was pretty sunny, which was needed. I kept saying that I brought the sun with me from Hawaii. Too bad it wasn't the same sun. You know, 50 degree weather instead of 80. I went to the bank the day after I got back and the clerk man and I had this convo:

Clerk man: Aren't you just LOVING this warm sunshine we're having?? (BIG smiles)
Me: Actually, no. I just back from Hawaii late last night and I'm quite cold.
Clerk man: (Blank stares and no longer smiling) Oh... Yeah I bet.
Me: Yep. It was much nicer there. (me smiling) But that's ok.
The end.

It made me laugh afterward. Sorry to be such a downer dude. And yeah, I'm still cold 24/7. But I think the real reason is because we don't know how to use the heater in our house. Just saying.

Even though I count the minutes til I have something to do here, I have taken some festive camera shots of the happenins in Seattle for your enjoyment. And here they are.

1. Happy Easter morning.
We're so lucky because the Easter bunny still brings us sugary treats on this holiday... when we request them. Goodness we're attractive.

2. Target.
Please just take in the happiness of the photo.
A. SISTER IS PREGNANT and even has the cute baby bump to prove it (yes BOTH my sisters (not Shib) are prego with boys. I think they both should name them Fabio or something to that effect... affect? Like I know, I've only graduated from college. Moving on).
B. Did you remember this is a Target? And there is a produce section!? Are you seeing this?? We're talking apples, bananas, lettuce, etc! My mind is still spinning at the thought.

This is a cart escalator because don't worry, this Target is two stories. Not kidding.

And this is the Justin Bieber nail polish line. The names were absolutely fabulous. Some of my personal favorites were 'One time lime' and 'I'm a 'belieber.' Still not kidding.

3. Temple.
On Saturday, brother and I went to the Seattle temple. It was my first time at that temple, which was totally cool. I realized while there that I had been to 3 different temples in 3 different states within the past 3 weeks- Rexburg, Idaho, Laie, Hawaii, and Seattle, Washington. Neato huh!? Now I only have about 120 or so to go. Hooray!!

After we walked out of the temple there was a crowd of 8-11 year old little girls handing out cookies with a sweet note attached saying thank you for your service in the temple. It was so so cute and it made Bud and I want to come back every Saturday at 1:00.

4. Lowe's.
Marmie and I use the fun carts at Lowe's even when we just need to get a key copied.

5. Late night trips to the grocery store.
Sometimes you just need to get out of the house. This is easily accomplished on a late Sat night when your mother needs something random at the grocery store for the Sunday dinner. Like corn flakes.

In the corn flake aisle, there is a plethora of tasty looking drinks. Bud and I decided to try out what we thought was delicious sparkling flavored water on sale in a cool bottle. Wrongooo.

It was club soda.

6. Riding in mum's car with Bud.
I pretty much do whatever Bud says since he's my bff in Seattle. And he wanted to go to burger king or gag in the bag or some place to make you sick at 11:00 pm. So I got water. We like to dance and sing to our favorite band: Nsync. Just in case you were wondering, they're just as amazing as they were in 4th grade.

Look Jimmy! It's one of those wave your card to pay thingys!

And that's the end of my festive camera shots of the happenins in Seattle. Hope you thoroughly enjoyed them. Blogland friends, please come and visit soon. Still not kidding.

Easter Sunday.

2011-04-24T11:41:00.009-06:00

I know that Jesus Christ lives. He rose after being crucified and lives today. Because of this knowledge we can have joy every day of our lives. This is the good news. Enjoy one of my favorite scriptures, songs, and quotes on this special day!

Luke 24:36-40

President Thomas S. Monson said,

No words in Christendom mean more to me than those spoken by the angel to the weeping Mary Magdalene and the other Mary when, on the first day of the week, they approached the tomb to care for the body of their Lord. Spoke the angel:

“Why seek ye the living among the dead?

“He is not here, but is risen.”

Hope you have a wonderful Easter Sabbath day!
Love, Rachel

A thumbs up occasion: Graduation!

2011-04-19T23:59:00.001-06:00

What?? I actually graduated from college? Can you believe it? Yeah, me. neither. The whole experience was/is truly surreal. Two Fridays ago ma famille came to Rexy and we had a jolly time playing around one of my favorite towns. Marmie instantly became my chauffeur and took me to the ten places I needed to go that day. It was simply beautiful. That night the crew went to dinner and then to my all time favorite place for cupcakes and hot chocolate: The Cocoa Bean. It was a fun day and I'm glad I got to spend it with my favorite people.

Right after the picture above was taken, Missy saw a random box of diapers in the snowy parking lot of Wally's and took it upon her cute pregnant self to run and fetch them. Too bad the rightful owner of the expensive diapers was running to retrieve them at the same time as her. She was caught red handed. Bum-mer.

Buddy fell asleep early Friday night with his glove on his hand. How presh.

Then Saturday came and I all the sudden found myself in a pretty dress, a really tall cap and a snuggie-like gown in the BYUI Center. Craziness I tell you. I took this picture in the bathroom beforehand to take in my freaking out moment.

The day was broken into two parts- 1st we had our commencement where we heard two great talks from Elder Steven E Snow and President Clark and 2nd was convocation where we walked across the BYUI stage and received our fake diplomas. Don't worry, I was a total dork and forgot to actually grab my diploma when President Clark tried to hand it to me. I said "Thanks so much!" and he said, "Ohh I think you need this" and I took a step back and said, "Oh yeah, I think that's important." Humorous. Here's a picture recap.

Ma Famille:

Mes Amis:

Former roomie/world traveling partner. The adorable and oh so kind and successful nurse: Chelsea.

This is wonderful Lesley. She was also a former world traveling partner and a TR (Therapeutic recreation) classmate. Love her.

All the TR graduates for Winter 2011 and one of our teachers Sister G. These guys became my best buds over the past few years. They are all SO great and I will miss them!

..................................................

Marmie was so talented and actually made me my graduation lei for the special day. It was beautiful and smelled very good. Nanks mumzie!

After graduation my wonderful family packed up my stuff and I flew off to a much needed vacation to the tropical paradise of Hawaii. I actually liked it this time! I'll be posting updates real soon.

Au revoir
Love,
The graduate... Wait, what?

Validation Tuesday.

2011-03-29T22:20:00.004-06:00

So.

Tonight I taught my LAST. CYCLING. CLASS. at BYU-Idaho. Can you say depressing? I really do love teaching. So much that I plan on getting certified so I can teach at a gym or something soon. Not because I feel qualified, cause I don't. Talk about intimidating. Maybe I'll ask to teach the sweatin to the oldies class. That way I wont be so nervous. Oh man. I will get certified, I will get certified, I will get certified! If I say this enough times then I'll actually do it!!

This is my picture they hung up in the Hart hallway for all my lovers to see. Oh wait, who are they???? Please, do tell.

So of course I made my last group all get in a huddle and smile. It was Marmie's smart idea. No, not everyone was in the picture and yes my class was small tonight. Kind of sad. But at least I wasn't teaching a 1 on 3 session. Been there done that. Aren't they cute?

I also went to grad-night tonight where President Clark spoke to the graduates. He did a great job and I felt validated. That's kind of my new word: validated. Lately I haven't felt very validated. But today I went and played lacrosse and I felt validated and then tonight at grad night I felt validated by president Clark and then at cycling I felt validated by my class. So there you have it. Today was validation Tuesday. And I liked it.

Last but not least, I listened to an amazing devotional today by Sister Ann N. Madsen (Truman G. Madsen's wife). It was one of the best I've ever heard on this campus and I loved loved loved her voice. I want to have her soft sweet kind spiritual voice. Can you have a spiritual voice? Well, who knows, but I aspire to have one. Which means I should probably stop being so stinking loud. You can listen to it here when it becomes available in the next few days (in the mean time, the one last week was super good too). I HIGHLY recommend it. Did I mention this was my LAST. DEVOTIONAL? Oh my, I've got to stop it with these 'last' comments or else this may be ridiculous.

Well, hope you all had a grand Tuesday and that you felt validated. If not, I think you're great. PS.

Countdowns:
3 days til we hear conference. AKA the prophet live!! I'm so so stoked. If you're not, click here to become stoked and listen Sat and Sun yourself.
10 days til graduation
11 days til Hawaii

Dude.

A night in the life with Rachel.

2011-03-24T22:49:00.005-06:00

My life has been quite insane this week and I finally kind of/sort of feel like I can breathe now... but a bag or inhaler would still be quite useful.

Last night I was in the library til it closed. That's seriously my FAVORITE time. They always turn on some rad CD and speak in 30 different languages saying the library is closing- just in case someone claims they couldn't understand what was said and tries to camp out. Don't tell anyone.... but I've thought of that. WHY NOT?? There are several different options for bathrooms, lots of mono infested drinking fountains, plenty of reading material, and a whole slew of computers ON DIFFERENT FLOORS to choose from. I don't think I could think of a better place for hide and seek. What else could a girl want? Oh yeah, food. They have vending machines too. Good ones.

So last night when the clock struck 11:15 and the lights turned out, I listened intently for which CD they chose to blast us with. And do you know which one they chose? The Halloween CD which included: It must be Halloween, Ghost busters, Monster Mash, and Adam's Family. For Pete's sake! Really? Can you say bazaaro world? Oh well, it made me laugh. Especially when I was leaving and the security guard boy started singing the part of the Adams Family when they say "Neat, (pause) petite (pause)" under his breath. TOTALLY heard you man. And it was awesome.

I stared taking pictures, because it was something to do other than homie (aka homework) and then I just couldn't STOP! Now I will bless you with my array of eventful photos from my eventful night.

My cute little space... in the dark.

Our sweet lil walkway from the MC to the library. Seriously, I love that thing!

A corner of the BYUI Center... also in the dark. It's my favorite place.

My beautiful shadow where I look like a two-ton-tilly. I promise my buttox is NOT that big. It's called a backpack thank you.

Glad I don't have to push one of these buttons!

Lots and lots of parking spaces available. I bet people wish they could reserve a spot the night before. Like checking into your flight the night before online... except not. Flights you say? Have I mentioned Hawaii recently? Oh, no big. Just 16 days is all.

I love stars. Good thing you can see them so well with raddddd camera phone. Facetious.

WELCOME HOME!
Oh look, a house warming gift- garbagio.

Amber's massive bowl of captain crunch berries. This is a lovely common site.

Oh hi bathroom. Did someone come in and rob us.... errr are we playing find the needle in the bathroom? *Note* I did not touch the bathroom before taking this picture; it's alllll real. As a matter of fact, I don't want to ever touch it.

Towards midnight I start to get hungry. But you see, I made a goal to not eat after 8:30. So last night I compromised with myself and decided that Great Value pitted prunes don't even count as food. In fact, they're more like a medicine. A very GOOD tasting medicine! Just sayin.
Then I started thinking, hmm what else can I consider not a food? I know, oranges! However, not multicolored (green, white, and orange) oranges. Yikes.

Then I vacuumed the floor...

So I could do this!! Let the living room project begin. (Marmie, do you remember when I would do this nightly on the kitchen table and then when I got kicked out of there, the living room floor? Yep, deshavu).

Then Shib did her hair and sang a tune.

Oh, and Brittney. Lovely souls.

Well that was the end of my eventful evening in pictorials format. If you remember that wonderful cornucopia of papers scattered on the living room floor, you will understand when I say I got 3 hours of sleep last night. HENCE why I'm going to bed RIGHT now. Hooray.

I hope you enjoyed a night in the life with Rachel. Stop by again sometime.

Countdowns:
2 days- Katie's hitching
15 days- GRADUATION
16 days- "Oh we're going to a hukilau. A huki huki huki huki hukilau"

Important Update.

2011-03-16T10:38:00.006-06:00

Here's the deal.

Last night I finally updated my wall whiteboard calendar thing and realized 6 massive/humungo/quite large things are coming up:

1. I have a wedding I'm going to next weekend. No, not mine, KATIE'S!
2. I have a therapeutic recreation conference and general conference I'm attending the following week/weekend.
3. I graduate the next week.
4. I go to Hawaii the week after that.
5. I'm going to still be a major zit face and have roots down to my ear for all of this. And,
6. I'm starting to WIG OUT.

Did I mention school/finals/clubs/teaching/internship are all mixed in in there? Oh, cause they are. It's all coming at once!! Where the hay did the entire semester go? HECK, where the hay did the past 4-5ish years go??

Someone please tell me before I have an aneurysm.

This picture is here because

it makes me happy. That is all.

Have a glorious Wed-nes-day. It's Wednesday right???

Love, Ratch

Sunnnns

2011-03-05T16:22:00.004-07:00

A few weekends ago, life was good. But wait, don't think life isn't good now... it is. But I'm currently in the library on a late Saturday afternoon putting off my 8 page paper. And I'm obviously procrastinating because I'm amazing at that. Blogging is definitely a good thing to be doing. ESPECIALLY because I'm a few weeks late. I'm also really good with justification. Anyways Back to a few weeks go-- Oh my lanta. SO great is all. Want to know why??? Because I went to a PHOENIX SUNS GAME!!!! And don't worry, they WON. So rad.

Me and my sweet roomie Shibby :)
(side note: I think camera phones are the best inventions ever created)

Please tell me you know who the Suns are? If you don't, click here. The Thursday before we left, during my cycling class I had people share what exciting things they were doing that weekend (pretty much just so I could bring up that I was going to a Sun's game. let's be honest). After I shared my news, my FHE bro goes "Ummm, what's a sun?" I told him it's an NBA team and he could watch the game on ESPN. He responded with, "What's ESPN?" Then I knew he was just being a punk. Thank goodness.

The Crew: Shibby, Me, Mark, Brittney, Syndrome/Nathan, Amelia (missing our Utah possy- Stephanie and Brocky)

Friday nights game they played the Jazz and the whole first half were trailing behind them. The group of friends I went with were such negative Nancys and thought they would totally loose. But not me. I didn't think for 1 second they would loose. Second half was so fun to watch. My favorite part was screaming every single time the suns made a basket and having people turn and stare at us from every single angle. Seriously, some people can turn into beasts when they step into a sports arena. And yes, I have been guilty of this. But during this game I used major restraint and did not boo once or get mad at someone.... except this one little boy to the left of me that screamed at me to go back to Phoenix. I looked at him with a disgusted look (I'm told I'm good at those) and said good thing I'm not from Phoenix and turned forward. Not even bad. I couldn't help myself. Really, the children are so naughty. For example:

Notice the punk in the back. Love him.

To explain our festivities I'll just tell you our schedule:

Friday 3:00 pm Left Rexy- only 45 min late. The trip down was.... cozy. We smashed in 2 mini trucks and it's a dang good thing I like everyone, because I couldn't have my personal bubble. Probably not the smartest thing to make spray paint t-shirts the night before and wear them in the 4 hour car ride there. MAJOR FUMES and headaches.

Oh Brittney. You are humorous.

8:15 Finally made it to the game. We were planning on being there at least 2 hours earlier to watch them warm up, but don't worry we got in 15 minutes. Next game my goal is much earlier.

FREAKING OUT

Yes, this is THE Steve Nash.

8:30 Game time.

9:45ish SAW DRAGIC!!!! Don't worry, he was injured and not playing. EXTREMELY depressing. Especially since he's not with the Suns anymore. Not even going to talk about it.

11:00 SUNS WON. Wearing our homemade shirts with pride.

Yes, we invited a Jazz fan. Poor thing.

Lovers

Saturday 12:00 am In-n-out. Have you ever been to a Utah In-n-out? I was actually impressed. Though after we were done eating I really really really wanted to walk outside and see palm trees sitting nicely around the parking lot waving in the breeze, not wind! No such luck.

1:00-too late Hot tub and swimming at condo!

11:00 IHOP. And then back to Rexy.

TOP 3 HIGHLIGHTS:
1. Seeing the Suns play in person.
2. Seeing Goran Dragic. My boyfriend. One day he'll accept that he loves me.
3. Being with fun friends duh

Epic. This post took at least 30 minutes longer to make than expected. Paper time.
The End.

Sunday Study: Hope

2011-02-20T15:08:00.007-07:00

I really enjoy continuously learning and studying hope and faith. I think one of the main reasons why is because I don't always understand the difference. Often I will get stuck in the everyday phrases of "I hope (blank) happens" or "I hope someday I'll get to (blank)" even though these things may be good, hope can go so much deeper than this. Often with faith I'll think, yes, I have faith because I'm a member of the church. But then what do I have faith in? And how do I really know I have faith? Does it just come? How does that show in my everyday life?

A talk I highly recommend for understanding the strength that can come to us daily from possessing hope and faith is 'The Infinite Power of Hope' by President Dieter F. Uchtdorf. I heard this the other day at work and was reminded of how much I desperately need to have both hope and faith in my life. Here is a Mormon messages video on some excerpts from President Uchtdorf's talk. You won't regret watching it! (Or reading it for that matter)

Hope your Sunday is simply marvelous.

Rachel

It's official, I am loved.

2011-02-15T23:59:00.000-07:00

So this Gag Day was quite festive. If I do say so. Here's why,

I GOT PRESIES! Please tell me what's better than getting presents on Single Awareness Day? Having a lover??? Don't make me laugh. Please be excited with me about the following packages I received.

From Cordy:
Shib and I got a jolly jolly package of cereal and lovely wally-world special jammies. The package also included a humorous amount of cynical comments we were supposed to say to all our friends and roomies. Here are my 2 favorites: How can I miss you if you won't go away? AND Love is like a box of chocolates... sweet at first and then you want to puke! Oh, how pertinent. Shelby and I will now model all the boxes of cereal and then the combination of cereal + jammies for you.

Cereal + Jammies

One word: Hot.

We are looking forward to our usual late nights while wearing our XL jammies while eating Special K for me and Reeses Puffs for Shelby... and then we'll trade. Can you think of anything more festive? No. No, you can't. Nanks Corderlia. So so wonderful.

Oh, and Shelby decided it would be funny to sit in the box the cereal came in. Here was the end result.

A busted box. Sorry Shib, our hips don't lie.

From Jimmy:
Shib and I got a CD yesterday entitled "All Time Greatest Love Songs" Mix. And here is a lovely sample of what you will find on this CD,

I really don't think there's anything to say besides it was absolutely perfect and I'm currently bawling from the tenderness of this song. Thanks James. How about I come visit Hawaii in a few weeks? Yeah? Ok. But only because you just sent me the greatest love CD that I've always wanted. Cool.

From Marmie:
Last week we got a very festive array of cupids and plates and cups and cupcake decorations and scratch and sniff valentines all that loveliness, and let me tell you, it was lovely. Shib and I blessed many lives this week with these glorious decorations.

Then if that wasn't enough, I got a glorious surprise in the mail yesterday. And it was....

500 Days of Summer!!

I couldn't believe it. Marmie actually read my blog a few weeks ago and then purchased this edited DVD for me. So thoughtful and kind.

I tell you what, I am blessed. Now all I want to do is cuddle up in my festive jammies while listening to my lovers mix with one ear bud in watching 500 Days of Summer and downing a bowl of Kix Berries. That would be the life. Too bad it's midterms this week and I'm totally putting off endless amounts of homework.... yeah, I better get on that.

Peace and LOVE.

Sunday Study: Service.

2011-02-13T13:59:00.007-07:00

Being that it's Sunday, I have a Sunday story. This morning I got up a little early and so naturally I was the first one in the apt ready to leave for church on time- Modern day miracle I tell you. Luckily, Amber hustled and decided to go with me to church as well. My other roomie Brittney gave us her keys to her rad mini truck and said we could drive it and she'd just meet us there. Cool. I can drive stick. Most of the time. Soo anyways we head off to church with no worries and then we pull into the small claustrophobic parking lot that we ALWAYS pull into and there are ALWAYS several open spots. Well, not today. Crap. I have to do a 10 point turn to get out of this little space. I HATE backing up in a stick car. I'm just so bad at it. But I thought, no no Rachel, you got this. You drove the whole .6 miles to get here just fine, this should be cake. As I proceed to turn about, I realize I'm on a slight slope. Grrrrreat. I get to my last turn and what do you know, I start rolling forward. SLAM on the breaks. Take a few deep breaths, push in the clutch and slowly release the break and am about to press on the gas and I ROLL FORWARD! Ok, now I'm freaking out. My FHE bro's Volvo is DIRECTLY in front of me and I'm soooo about to hit it. Really, I'm about to die. I'm turning to Amber for help, but of course she can't drive stick. Of course. All the while I've said probably 4 silent prayers for help and staled 5 times. So then I think ok, you need to get creative. So I try and turn my left foot horizontally so I'm pushing in on the clutch all the while pushing on the break. You know, so then I can gun it with my right foot on the gas. DOESN'T WORK. I'm not able to slowly lift my foot off the clutch without also slowly lifting off the brake. Which leads to more rolling forward. Finally I realize that's it, I can't do this without hitting his hot car. After seriously contemplating how bad it would be if I actually hit his car, and then realizing I'm insane, I get out to check the inches. Too little for me. I'm about to go find some boy that looks competent in driving stick (dont' know how someones looks qualify that one) and THEN all the sudden my roomies pull into the claustrophobic parking lot! They see me out of the car looking at the Volvo in front of me and all their faces drop. They totally think I've hit the car. Brittney puts her hand over her mouth and just when I realize what they think I've done, I start making all sorts of large crazy hand movements to say 'No NO no NO! I didn't do it! I'm not a freak! I didn't hit the $25,000 car! DON'T PANIC!!' That obviously helped because then they all started laughing. Brittney then gets out the car and comes and rescues me. She backed it up without blinking.

Wow.... I look really cool.

Moral of this story is lot's of things. But today we'll focus on service. If Brittany wouldn't have come to my rescue than lots of bad things could have happened. But luckily she was kind and selfless and didn't say, well Rachel, you got yourself into this mess, now get out. Because then she would have had a dented truck and a dented Volvo. But we wont focus on that. We'll focus on the facts that 1. She let me drive her truck to church. 2. She saved me and wasn't ticked at me in the slightest. And 3. She even asked me if I wanted to drive home after church. Are you for real?

When things don't go so well for you this week (especially tomorrow considering it's gag day and maybe not all of you have lovers, or is that just me? Or if your lover stinks at being your Valentine and only gives you a hug), think of who you can serve. Not only will they be happier, but so will you.

Mosiah 18:8-11
"And now, as ye are desirous to come into the fold of God, and to be called his people, and are willing to bear one another’s burdens, that they may be light; Yea, and are willing to mourn with those that mourn; yea, and comfort those that stand in need of comfort, and to stand as witnesses of God at all times and in all things, and in all places that ye may be in, even until death, that ye may be redeemed of God, and be numbered with those of the first resurrection, that ye may have eternal life-"

"[...] And now when the people had heard these words, they clapped their hands for joy, and exclaimed: This is the desire of our hearts."

Happy Sabbath.
Love, Rachel

"You can dance if you want to"

2011-02-08T22:51:00.007-07:00

My roomies/friends are the best. Truly. Last weekend we were walking home from some festive acoustic show thing one of my roomies was singing in and lo and behold there was a hoppin dance in the Hart gym! K all I can say is

I LOVVVVVVE dancing.

Seriously, AFY made me a manic for all dances. And all my friends love it too! So of course we ran home, put on our dancing shoes (black ripped up vans... I can never face the truth that they're shot and part with them... never), and ran back to party for the last 1.5 hours. Got to admit, I was a little hesitant it wasn't going to be rad enough for my presence. However, I was wrong. Like usual. There were only 50 billion people there and we only had to pay ONE doll hair to get in. Can you say awesome?

Apres la dance

After the dance we celebrated the Chinese New Year. Thanks to Nathan (cute Amelia's hus) for serving his mission there. T'was quite festive!

This weekend is going to be soooooo sick, in a good way. You'll have to tune in later to see the awesomeness of it all. BE EXCITED.

PS click the cute sidebar box that says 'I'm a Mormon' to see my profile! It's kind of exciting. Guess what? You can totally make one too! We'll make a party out of it.

PPS I love to see the temple, I tried to go the other day, to feel the Holy Spirit, to listen and to pray, but the temple was closed you see, for carpet cleeeaning, la da de da da la da de da, le de la da de da daaaaaaaa. The end. I hope you just sang that whole thing. I did maybe 32 times trying to come up with that ditty.

PPPS "You can act like an imbecile"

PPPPS Hawaii. Yessssss

Goodnight.

Items of not business.

2011-01-31T18:00:00.002-07:00

item numero 1.
I've felt much better this weekend. Saturday it was a big tender mercy to wake up and feel like I could breathe! So I went and taught cycling. I was a little... no no... I was a lot nervous to do so because heck, people expect the instructor to be a dang Lance Armstrong! And on a regular day I AM Lance, but Saturday... I knew it was going to be sketchy. So I grabbed my large box of kleenex and some lifesavers (prizes some lucky class members won) and went to class. It ended up being quite jolly because I was completely inspired to play group games the whole time. I just told them upfront that for today they could not look to me as the pacer or example of what to do. Not allowed. They had to muster up the guts to push themselves on their own during the moments in the work out when I had to slow it down because the phlegm/flem was coming out my throat, nose, and ears and I was about to die. Sorry t'was a bit gruesome. I'm happy to report that I have the best class members in the world. We had a great workout and I had 3 people tie in Simeon says-- of course on the bikes. I couldn't stump them even in the sudden death round! What is the DEAL?

item numero 2.
I can't handle my blog background/look/format and I don't think I EVER will. Seriously, I think the only answer is to hire a million dollar profesh to meet all my needy needs. Yes. That's IT. Unless of course someone reading this blog has a nerdy cousin of some sort that loves to design free blogs for needy picky people and is dying to redesign mine?! Heavens, I ACCEPT.

item numero 3.
I'm going to Hawaii in the near future and freaking.out. Seriously, I can hardly wait. Which is quite humorous if you know me, because Hawaii and I don't really get along. Long story short, I went 2 years ago, had an awful experience that honestly traumatized me, and now I'm afraid of paradise. But guess what? It's time to get over it! So my good friend came up with this brilliant idea to go with a group of friends and play for graduation. Not to mention one of my favorite persons... people... whatev, is there and we will get to party like it's 1999!! After much coercion by dear Julie, I'M GOING. And I still can't believe it. Every time I see this outside my door, I'm reminded of how lucky I am to go from a whopping 8 degrees

to a glorious 80 degrees!

Yesterday in an act of defiance against the Rexy weather and excitement for Hawaii weather, I totally wore shorts. So now you know why I might randomly drop the word "Hawaii" in every post from now till I leave. FYI... 68 DAYS, but who's counting?

item numero 4.
I love living with roomies. Can I just say it's only the funnest thing ever? HOWEVER, I do have a bone to pick. Can you please tell me why it is SO difficult to find a hair tie (pitchew) every.single.day of my life??? I mean really. I'm pretty sure we all have HAIR since there are globs of it allllll around the apartment. Currently gagging. So if we have hair, why would we not have hair ties? Why do I seem to get jipped in this department every time I desperately need one? You could also substitute the word 'hair tie' with 'bobby pin' every other day.

item numero 5.
Do you know I'm an aspiring Recreational Therapist?? Well I am. Don't know what this is? No one really does. CLICK here to find out! Or google it. But beware, you may all the sudden have a ridiculously strong urge to change your major or go back to school once you see how cool it is. Annnyways... for one of my classes this semester, we get to go do actual rec therapy work with actual patients! And this week (and maybe a few more) we're going to a center with at risk youth. I am SO PUMPED! Bomb.com. Also, I'm still hunting for internship places. I'm so indecisive. It's a problem. COMMENT and tell me where you think I should go and why. Rad? RAD.

item numero 6.
The edited dvd place that I'm pretty sure I would love if I had money to purchase dvds from, is going out of business. Can you say depressing? Show them some love and purchase their last few copies of dumb and dumber. You won't regret it. OR if you don't feel like purchasing a movie for yourself, I will gladly accept (500) Days of Summer. Gracias in advance.

he is so retro and she is so adorable it's not even funny.

THE END.
ps I hope you knew I was kidding about being Lance. I'm really Eddy Merckx.

At least I know I'm living!

2011-01-26T14:18:00.007-07:00

SO guess what? Yep, I'm ill. Yesterday I came down with the flu/cold. Its been mucho sucko. I can't remember the last time I had the flu. However, I will say the timing was quite perfect because today is my work/homie (homework) day and I don't have to miss out on any of my classes. Just work... darn. This morning I woke up to my alarm at 10. Can you say glorious? I know, I shouldn't be setting my alarm when I'm sick, but I had to call into work to tell them I'm dying. They gave me their sympathy. After taking some time to actually wake up, I realized my chills and fever were pretty much gone. So I decided to sit up out of bed and waste time on my computer in my giraffe/cheetah jammies. I am proud to announce I have taken the time to create a 'I'm a Mormon' profile thingy! Hooray. I've been wanting to make one for a while and just haven't had the headache to do so. I guess we could call this a tender mercy. Once they approve that I'm not some anti-weirdo-teaching false doctrine-person, I'll post my link on my side bar or something so you can all explore. Joy.

I have a story: About 1ish months ago, dear Audrey tagged me in a question/answer thing on her blog. However, I hate these, so I didn't complete it. But since I have a guilty conscious and I have nothing important to do right now except hours of studying... I'm completing it! However, there is a catch. I will answer these questions in relation to my current sicky ill situation right now. That way it will be more entertaining. Bon. Let's begin.

4 Shows I watch

I don't watch tv. But movies are different. Last night I watched a plethora of them in and out of sleep in my comfy bed.
1. Persuasion- Only watched the last half and it was the version where Captain Wentworth is NOT hot. I figured I shouldn't be snotty and give him a try... yeah, kind of a let down. Though I will say the kissing scene at the end is Waaaaaaay better than in the newer persuasion with the hottie blond Captain Wentworth.
2. Sound of Music- for some odd reason I've been wanting to watch this recently. Then when I found out my roomie owns it, I HAD to watch it. But only the last half after Florine Maria and the Captain become lovers. Let's be honest, it's just too long if you watch everything all at once.
3. Leap Year- Swooned over the man in this. Accents=hot.
4. Sense and Sensibility (aka sense and sense)- I started it and stopped it after the first 10 min to go to bed. I realized my brain hurt from sensory overload. However, I had to try and watch it because It's just my all time favorite is all.

*Can you see an underlying chick flick theme? I sure can't.

4 Things I am Passionate About

1. Sweats
2. Fuzzy red grandma socks
3. Low sodium saltine crackers
4. BLANKETS

4 phrases I say a lot:

1. Will you hand me...
2. Shib can you get me...
3. (roommate) can I borrow...
4. My feet are cold. Shib will you...

4 Things I have learned from the past

1. Sprite. That is all.
2. Hair in high buns is a must.
3. Clean your room before you decide to get ill. Because then you can't leave the pigsty.
4. Do not have a pancake party at your house the night you decide to be ill.

4 places I would like to go

1. ummm no where other than my bed dur.

4 Things I did yesterday

1. Got sick
2. laid on a pillow on my bed
3. laid with blankies on my bed
4. movies in bed.

Theme?

4 Things I am looking forward to

1. Brushing my hair
2. Heck, brushing my teeth.
That's all.

4 Things on my Wish List

1. HIGH sodium saltine crackers
2. Go to Hawaii. OH wait, I am going!
3. Snuggie
3. Vibrating alarm clock

Welp, donzo. I'll let you guess know if I end up dying from this. Cool? Cool.

Bomb Diggity

2011-01-18T00:01:00.004-07:00

Hey guess what? I start my cycling class tomorrow. Can you say exciting? I can't think of anything better than rocking out to cher, THE spice girls, britney and bieber for a full 50 minutes multiple times a week. Can you??? Of course not. No need to answer.

Though I have been a little nervous starting my class up again, because let's face it, I'm scared of just about everything. Including graduating THIS VERY SEMESTER. Holy weird! I'll elaborate on that another time. But back to cycling. The roomies were kind and let me do a practice class with them tonight at the gym. It felt good. So I don't think I'm as scared for this whole cycling gig. In fact, I think tomorrow will be bueno. But just in case I start to freak out... which is most likely going to happen... Pray pour moi!

Merci,

Love Rad Rachel

Hello Seattle.

2010-12-23T22:53:00.012-07:00

This last weekend was ridiculously good. My friend Jimmy and I drove 50 zillion hours in the car to Seattle to party for a few days. Surprisingly, the drive went pretty fast (after hour 5 or 6) and it was quite entertaining. We thought the odds were better of us dying than living. However, I'm happy to report we beat the odds.

The next few days were an adventure. We only had a short amount of time with Jimmy here, so we had to fill it with things like gingerbread creations, Seattle's gum wall, the retro public library, street poets, and making out.

Let's hope I shook a few people up with that last comment. Yes... I'm being facetious.

Sunday was full of church, candy cane lanes, and gingerbread houses. We met a naughty little girl at church that sat in front of us. She couldn't seem to sit forward or put her legs down out of her feathered Mrs. Claus dress for more than 3 seconds. Wouldn't you know, her name was Rachel. Wearin the name with pride. That night we had a gingerbread 'creation' contest. It started out as a gingerbread house competition, but then after seeing Shib's concoction, we changed the rules a bit. It was a tough call, but I think Jimmy and I won. Shibbers ate hers as she went.

STORY: Monday we headed downtown. On our way to Pikes Market, we were stopped by an intoxicated rookie street poet from San Diego trying to make it to the big leagues. He asked if he could share a 40 second soon-to-be-big poem he wrote with us. We agreed and 2 minutes later, he was asking to share another 20 second poem. He asked Jimmy and I if we were boyfriend/girlfriend, Jimmy said no and I responded with we're engaged. My bad. This made our new creative friend happy. He continued on with his 1-2 minute love poem that could only be rehearsed when lovers stood toe to toe with their eyes locked. This stance supposedly means 'I love you.' Perfect. The videos show it all (sorry if the sound is crappy).

Part 1

Part 2

Jimmy was so good at being serious and just staring. I on the other hand can't remember the last time I laughed so hard. All his lines about eternity, passion, lips caressing, etc. were priceless. So so perfect. Our love for each other grew 10 fold because of this street poet man. We owe everything to him. If our friend doesn't make it big by next month, Jimmy and I plan on supporting him-- because he FIRST supported us. Meaning, we plan on sending him a Starbucks gift card each month. In Seattle we learned that all you need to survive is coffee. But not just any coffee, Starbucks coffee. Hopefully he appreciates this generous offer, but I wouldn't bet on it. We learned bums on the street can be picky/snotty with donations. Interesting.

After being serenaded, we made it to Pikes Market. This place was pretty rad. We walked around and saw their bongs and pipes on display, that was unique. We were also entertained by all the fish being thrown around. That's a skill if I've ever seen one.

But I personally think the highlight of Pikes was the gum wall. It's a nastified wall of legalized graffiti where everyone and their dog has left their mark. AKA their gum. Of course we HAD to participate. Why, might you ask? That's a good question.

We also went to the top of all the tallest building in Seattle. No, not the space needle, the BANK OF AMERICA! Instead of paying the overpriced bill of $18.00 to see most of Seattle and it's wonders, we only paid $3.00 and saw all of Seattle and it's wonders. Boom baby!

It was a very fun/short 2ish days and there were A LOT of things we didn't get to do. Since all the fam can do is talk about you Jimmy, looks like you better get your booty back here very soon! For real.

Donzo.

2010-12-17T20:47:00.003-07:00

Guess what! Guess what!! Guess What!!!???
...................
.............
.......
....

Finals are OVERrrrrrrr &
Brittany graduates tomorrow!

Time to party like it's 1985.

Take that anat and phys!

Booya baby.

SLC

2010-12-12T17:30:00.009-07:00

So remember how this week is finals week and everyone is grossly busy? And how I have a major 20+ page paper/presentation to finish by Tuesday AM and a blessed anat and phys test and 40 scripture description things and 25 scriptures to memorize before Thursday?????? And how this amount of work would normally take me at least 2-3 solid weeks?

And remember how I learned this week to not murmur or complain because 'no misfortune is so bad that whining about it won’t make it worse' (Elder Holland) Obviously still working on this one HA.

And remember how I was crazy this weekend and went to Utah??!!

And remember how I had the BEST time ever and will happily be pulling all nighters this week to finish the homework I didn't do???

Yep. I totally remember.

More pictures and stories to come later. MUCH later.

A&P

2010-12-09T11:21:00.006-07:00

This semester I'm taking the second half of anatomy and physiology aka A&P (lecture and lab). It's pretty much the death of me. I will admit, It's cool to finally learn about why you get colds, or what vaccines are, or all about mineralocorticoids, flucorcorticoids, and androgens. JOKE. But things have been a little hideous concerning one thing. Tests. I've never been a real good test taker, but within the past 3-4 years, I've definitely gotten better. I've taken 3 exams now for the lecture and guess how well I've done? Well, I won't tell you just yet. Let me first say

1. I've never missed one class.
2. I always take copious amounts of notes and try to pay close attention in lecture (sometimes gum is the only thing that saves me).
3. I attend a one-on-one tutoring session for 1 hour each week.
4. I read over my notes outside of class.
And finally, 5. I actually try.

Now, with that said, I'm being extremely brave here and telling you my 3 exam scores this semester:
Exam 1: 57.8%
Exam 2: 52.9%
Exam 3: 56.6%
*no these points are not out of 60.

Can you say EPIC FAILURE!!! I seriously do not get it. Just when I feel a bit of slight confidence boil up in me, I walk out of the creepy testing center, around the corner to the death defying TV screen and look at my score. All the scores are listed by your i-number (which is a specific number assigned to every student). Almost every time I see my score, I have to pull out my i-card to make sure that huge F is most definitely next to my i-number. And sure enough, I have my i-card number down.

Although this stinks beyond all belief, I'm past the crying stage. Now I just laugh. Really, that's all I can do. I've decided it's time to come to reality and realize life goes on even if I get a C in this heinous class. DON'T WORRY, if I'm lucky I'll pull off a C+. It's sickening to say it, but I'll be quite glad. You have to understand, I have NEVER gotten a C in my life. EVER. I know, welcome to the real world.

Well, time to stop putting off endless studying for my A&P lab test today (which is not the same as the lecture tests, I can actually pull of a descent grade with these ones. Usually). It's over all the respiratory, digestive, renal, and REPRODUCTIVE anatomy..... thanks to my P0 health class in high school that was for the weirdos where I learned nothing about anything (everyone else took P2 Health unless your madre didn't sign the paper saying you could learn stuff... about stuff. Needless to say, Marmie accidentally didn't sign the paper)
Yep. I've been having a reallllll special time with this material.

I am so embarrassed to study this stuff at the library. But when I do, I feel like I need to hold up a big sign that says,
NO I am not looking at porn people.
But thanks for being so concerned.

Continue in Patience

2010-12-04T15:59:00.000-07:00

I love this video. Happy Saturday :)

Love, Rad Rachel