the endless summer

Well my friends, we are to the end of another summer under the Idaho sun. (or Idaho roof if you were like me and watched Netflix nonstop) From workouts to family night to having a job, I would say that this summer is officially one for the books. 

Although I did have a lot of fun relaxing and going to Crossfit every day, there were some days where it was all I could do to not scream into a pillow because of how bored I was. I got to the point where I would do three workouts in one day just to keep myself occupied.

So here's the deal...... SUMMER AT HOME ACCORDING TO A COLLEGE STUDENT:

1. Don't be afraid or ashamed to spend time with your family. They're most likely going to be your only friends for three months so let lose and be silly! This includes cousins, grandparents, and aunts/uncles.

Bowling night with my mom's brothers is always a party. With these hooligans, there is no way you can't have fun!

My sister might be the coolest person to ever walk this planet (aside from me).

My dad and I went to the Boise Music Festival this summer. Aside from sweating profusely and all the drunk people, it was a really really really fun weekend with my daddy.

Kylee. Raddest cousin on the planet.

Soccer games and shopping in Utah is too fun when it's with my mom and sister.

2. It's perfectly acceptable to travel. Go see the friends you do have if they are close by, make your mom take you shopping down in Utah (especially get her to pay for everything). It's nice to just break up the routine, even if you go by yourself.

My best pal Uri came to visit for a week so duh we had to show her some good Idaho fun. To to that we went hiking in Wyoming.

Boatin.

True beauties inside and out (at least that's what my mom says)

My other best pal Mac had her family reunion in Bear Lake so I met up with her and Ashley for the day.

These are seriously my favorite girls.

3. Binge on Netflix and nap time while you have a chance. If you aren't busy, and don't have anything else to do, take a nap! They help pass the time anyways haha.

My favorite spot to take naps was on this couch with my sweet doggy snuggled up on my lap.

4. Find a job that you love. The job I had this summer war really really good for me. They were flexible and didn't give me a boat ton of hours so I still had time to do other things. Plus it gave me some great job experience and I learned some very valuable things from it. However, I didn't love it and would probably choose something different for next summer.

Just taking a break from the workplace to grab some lunch. It's whatever.

This is what not fun looks like.

5. Take the time to work on yourself. Evaluate your levels of health and spirituality (and other things of course) and decide if the things you are doing will help you reach your goals. Whatever those may be.

Reading helps you achieve your goals. I did not enjoy this book though.

I also tried to improve myself by learning how to walk in high heels. Let's just say it's a work in progress.

Moral of the story..... enjoy your summer kids. Although it may seem like it's the longest three months of the whole year, they can also be some of the best. So live while you can, relax while you can, and enjoy every minute.

Now enjoy some summer snapshots.....

Longboarding around the river was a favorite.

The view from the green belt.

Hanging out with this spitfire.

Ball games with the family.

Mountain biking like a champ.

Supporting the US during the world cup.

Trying to convince her that I was mom's favorite.

Tubing with Ashley and Mac.

Golfing with rad cousin Kylee.

And eating ice cream before bed with my daddy.

The End

the three B's

Lucky me, I got to give a talk in church right before leaving for SVU again. Chiggity check it out peeps. 

Last week brother Jacobson came to my house and asked me to share some things that I have learned from my family that have helped me throughout my time in college. I immediately thought yesssss this is the perfect topic for me because I love my family and I love southern Virginia university so sweet deal that I get to talk about both amirite?

Alright. My family. I guess I could talk about things like how I've learned it's important to be kind to your family members, and in turn other people, when they beat you in fifa or else you might end up feeling really bad and having to repent for the mean things you say to them because you are a sore loser. Or I could talk about how I've learned to carefully plan my nap schedule in between running errands for my busy mother which translates to carefully planning my nap schedule in between running errands for my busy college self.

But I've decided to narrow it down to one thing from each family member that I've come to learn is crucial in a college setting, and in life in general. I like to call these the three B's

First we'll start with Lyndsey. My sweet and sassy little sister is the zest of our family. If you know her at all, you know that she has so much energy she could easily put the energizer bunny to shame. She is constantly moving and talking and dancing and bouncing off the walls, and sometimes just watching her makes me feel like I need to take a nap. But she has taught me something that has served me so well and will continue to do so. 

She has taught me to BEAR TESTIMONY. 

By this I mean it in the literal way like getting up during fast and testimony meeting to share my feelings about my savior and his great church, but I also mean it in more of an example type of way. 1 Timothy 4:12 says Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

 Lyndsey has taught me the real meaning of this scripture. I can bear my testimony by my words, attitude, and actions, just like my little sister does. Lynds is not afraid to stand up for what she believes in. She knows what's right, and even when she gets pressure from others around her, she is able to stand firm and defend her beliefs.

 She sets the example for me by saying some of the most heart felt thought out prayers that I have ever heard. She isn't afraid to dive right in to discussions about church related topics with our family or friends. She isn't afraid to do her own thing when she notices that some of her friends are hanging out with the wrong crowd. If there is something on her mind, she isn't afraid to say it. Watching her and hearing about her strong will to bear testimony in whatever she does, whether she realizes she's doing it or not, has come in so handy for me.

 Belonging to a school like SVU that is dominantly LDS and has such high standards has made it easier to stick to my beliefs. But there were a handful of times last year that I found myself in certain situations and felt the need to stand firm in my testimony by saying things like, "instead of watching this R rated movie, how about we watch something more appropriate" or "I would love to go up to the fields and kick a soccer ball around instead of sit through three hours of church but I'm going to go to church anyways because I know it's the right thing to do." In this way, I am remembering my sister and bearing testimony by standing up for what I know is right.

Next is my dad. My dad and I are basically the same person. We both like to watch movies, we both have a hard time dealing with incompetent people, we have the same sarcasm, we just get each other. So I try to listen to his advice as best as I can. Last year, as we were hugging good bye and my family was getting ready to fly home after driving me out to school, he said two words that have stuck with me. BE SMART. At first he said this and I thought, "yeah dad sure I'll go to the library and study and whatnot." But after really thinking about this simple yet powerful phrase, I've come to learn that it means so much more than just being a good student. Whenever I make plans I think BE SMART. Whenever I leave my apartment I think, BE SMART. To be smart means to use wisdom and judgement in all that I do. Living 20000 miles away from home, I've had to grow up and really learn about the responsibilities of taking care of myself. I've learned how important it is to eat good food, get the rest that I need, and plan adequate time for homework and studying. I've learned about being smart with boys and staying away from the type of people that I know wouldn't have a good influence on me. I've learned that being smart means being a safe diver and not being careless about things that should be taken seriously. So basically, to be smart is to be responsible. I've applied this phrase heavily towards my physical and temporal needs while at school. But I've also learned a little about being smart when it comes to my spirituality as well. As members of the church we all are all responsible for seeking our own salvation and the salvation of others. During General Conference last spring, Elder Jorge F. Zebellos of the Seventy said these two responsibilities that have been trusted to us, which we freely accepted, must define our priorities, our desires, our decisions, and our daily conduct. We must press forward by learning our duty, making correct decisions, acting according to those decisions, and accepting the will of our Father. In other words, we need to be smart.

 BE SMART covers just about anything and everything. It's a short and sweet phrase that I have adapted to every aspect of my life and will continue to use until the day I die. And I'm so thankful that I have such a sweet father who knows how to give me direction. 

Last but certainly not least is my mom. I've learned so many things from her over the years I could probably write a book about it all. She has taught me how to have a good work ethic and how to laugh at yourself when you sing and dance in the car. She is like the coolest mom ever so it came as no surprise when my friends wanted to hang out with her as much as they wanted to hang out with me. My best friend Rose would come over to my house and say, "Michele I need your wisdom." So the three of us would sit in our kitchen for hours and talk about everything from boys to school to jobs to just about anything else you could think of. One of these special therapy sessions stands out to me in particular. Rose and I were in the midst of our teenage years and getting ready to go to high school, so of course we needed all the motherly wisdom we could get. I don't remember the exact context of the conversation, but I do remember one very powerful thing she taught us.
BUILD YOUR FOUNDATION ON CHRIST.  

She very strongly impressed that we were at the time in our lives when building this foundation was crucial. She promised that if we were steadfast in our testimonies of our Savior and built ourselves up on him, then we would be able to handle anything that the adversary would throw in our paths. Going to college can be a scary thing. There are so many temptations that can potentially throw anyone off balance and cause foundations to crumble if they aren't built correctly. Scripture study, prayer, weekly church attendance, and institute are all good things but the one thing that can withstand any storm or temptation is a sure belief in Christ. 

Helaman 5:12 says And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you,it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation wherein if men build they cannot fall.

My mothers words and this scripture have definitely helped me at school. I know that because my foundation is built on Christ, I don't need to worry when a trial comes my way. And my relationship with my Savior has only grown since being at school. I'm so thankful that my mom taught me this lesson because I know that without my sure foundation in Christ, I would not have had such a wonderful college experience.

Families are one of Heavenly Father's greatest gifts and they are essential to his eternal plan. I'm so thankful that he has blessed me with such a wonderful family that supports me and loves me unconditionally. This summer I've learned just how precious spending time with them is. And while I'm certainly going to miss them when I go back to school, I'm also thankful that I have found a family in my soccer team, coaches, and friends 2000 miles away so that I can continue to receive the blessings that come from families.

the rain jacket

When you're a collegiate athlete, there's so much to get excited about. Home games where all your friends are there to cheer for you, repping the uniform with your school name on it, a full intense 90 minutes, and of course the swag. Now I don't mean like personality ego swag (which can be part of it too), I'm talking about swag as in stuff. There's cleats that are your school colors, warm up shirts, practice outfits, sweats, socks, and of course.... The rain jacket. I know what you're thinking. What's so great about a rain jacket? Which was the exact thought I had when I learned we had rain jackets in our player packs and all the returners were getting excited about them. It keeps you from getting wet. So what? 

Well I'll tell you what. That rain jacket is the most comfortable, stylish, good looking rain jacket I have ever worn in my life. Which is saying a lot because I've worn a fair number of rain jackets. It's long so it doesn't get bunched up behind a backpack. It's lose and a little baggy so it's mega comfortable. It's light so you can wear it by itself if it's hot or layer it with a sweatshirt underneath if it's cold. And you can stuff it into any bag so it's the perfect jacket to bring anywhere you go. Seriously people. I'm obsessed with this thing. 

We were supposed to give them back to our coach, along with all the other gear we couldn't keep, at the end of the season. But we all begged him to let us keep our stuff until the end of the school year. Mostly just for the rain jackets. I wore that thing almost every day. It was like I was going to a funeral when I had to finally give it back! That jacket and I have been through a lot together and we share a very special bond. 

I can't wait to go back to school in just 5 weeks. I can't wait to have another amazing season of soccer with some of my very best friends. And I can't wait to get that rain jacket back. Trust me, if you could wear one, you would understand. 

hey rain jacket

hey rain jacket

hey rain jacket

hey rain jacket

hey rain jacket

hey rain jacket

hey rain jacket

hey rain jacket

hey rain jacket

hey rain jacket

hey rain jacket

hey rain jacket

hey rain jacket

hey rain jacket

Love you long time rain jacket. Don't worry, I will be reunited with you soon, my precious.

the time i almost lost the ability to have children

This is the tragic tale of the time I almost lost the ability to have children. A heartbreaking yet hilarious tale that I am now prepared to share. Brace yourselves.

During the fall semester of last school year, all the athletes were required to go to study hall. A magical land where no cell phones, no music, no nothing except homework was acceptable. So me, being the studious student-athlete that I am, was in this magical land late at night. When it was time for me to leave and go back to the real world, it was dark out. Not a problem. I knew where I was going. Because you know, muscle memory and stuff. Or something like that.

So off I went in the direction I needed to go. I was minding my own business, texting. I was texting and walking. And for those of you who know me, mainly my mother, multitasking is not my strongest quality. Especially when I try to combine walking and texting. When people say don't text and drive, listen. And I think this could be applied to walking also. Don't text and walk people. By doing this you could save lives.

So as the story goes, I was walking and texting along the road/sidewalk when BAM!!!!!! My general crotch region ran right into a waist high pole. You know how in cartoons when the person runs into a pole and all four of their limbs keep going but their body is flattened by whatever it is they just so happened to cross paths with? Well that's exactly what happened. My books, phone, and water bottle that I was carrying in my arms went flying, and I bent over that pole because it was stuck right where my "goods" were. Oh sweet mother of mercy, I thought. The pain was agony! Am I dying? Is it the second coming? DONT GO INTO THE BRIGHT LIGHT AT THE END OF THE TUNNEL. Okay yes I'm a little dramatic, but believe me when I tell you this hurt like a mother. I just stood there for the next few seconds, curled over, cradling the spot that I thought for sure was broken (if you can break that part of your body). 

When the pain finally subsided enough for me to stand up straight, I slowly started moving to gather my strewn items. Then it hit me (not physically like that pole did but emotionally). I burst out laughing uncontrollably. Did that really just happen to me? And was I really all by myself? No one saw how ridiculous that just was. And I was kind of bummed about it haha (literally). I turned to look at that pole one more time and continued to giggle as I went on my way. 

And that, my friends, is the time I almost lost the ability to have children. If I was a dude, no doubt I would be ruined. This day can now go down in history as one of the most ridiculously hilarious moments I had with myself. And lesson learned? If you're going to do something embarrassing and potentially detrimental to your future posterity, make sure to bring a friend along to laugh with you. 

The end. 

be aware

As I sit in my quiet corner of the world, examining the beauty all around me, one single thought keeps running through my head. 

GOD IS AWARE.

Just think about it. 

He knows I love the time of night when the sun is setting and everything is still.

He knows I love the smell of freshly cut grass.

He knows I love coconut ice cream. 

He knows what makes me laugh till I cry.

He knows how sad I get when I feel alone.

He knows how afraid I am of the future.

He knows when to send certain people into my life at just the right time.

He knows every part of me!

It's a little bit of an intimidating thought. But it's oh so comforting at the same time. It gives me peace knowing that I am so well known. Knowing that there is purpose for my life.

A few months ago I was in a really bad car accident. I was driving south on the free way in pouring rain. My truck started to hydroplane and I ended up hitting the median, rolling my truck, and coming to rest on the opposite side of the northbound lane. It was the type of accident that I probably shouldn't have walked away from. At least without some major injuries. All I had to show for it was a gnarly seat belt burn and a few cuts on my hands (and maybe a little bit of a bruised ego). I think about this experience all the time. Not because it's a horrible thing I can't let go, but because it reminds me that God is aware. He knew my mission here on earth isn't over. He knew I was going to need extra protection that day. He knew what to do.

So many times am I reminded that God is aware. I see little miracles every day proving that He knows what I need when I need it. And I think that is a pretty special thing to recognize.

CLICK HERE

missionary status

This is my best pal, Rose.

She's going to be a missionary in 10 days. 

While I'm over here crying selfish tears of sadness because I won't get to see her or send her ugly pictures of myself for the next 18 months, I'm also crying happy tears of pride for what an outstanding sister missionary she will be.

Brazil doesn't know what's coming.

Maybe when you get back we can work on our high five skills.

XOXO

freshman year? check

Guys. I did it. I made it through my first year of college! 

Second semester was a whirlwind to say the least. So much happened within four short months. Some of it was pretty ugly. Some of it I look back on and think, "How in the world did I survive that?". But I did it! And if Zac Effron was to walk up to me today and ask me to marry him on the condition that I go back to the beginning and not go to SVU, I would only slightly hesitate before saying no way Jose. Plus also, true love shouldn't have any conditions. Sorry Zac.

Anyways.... don't ask me to summarize my first year/second semester of college because you'd be listening to me ramble on for hours. 

So here's the shortened version:

 I made lifelong friends who love me unconditionally. We can talk about the quality of our poop one minute and then discuss the purpose of our lives here on earth the next. My squad is my family and I would've died this past semester without them.

I have really attractive best friends. Just sayin.

I learned that it is indeed possible to function on three hours of sleep a night for several weeks in a row. Thank you Ryan for giving the 6am weight training slot to the women's soccer team. Thank you Dr. Schramm for making me lose sleep over cramming for your ridiculous tests. Thank you Masen Fenn for making it so hard to be responsible when there is fun to be had at 2am. Thank you Netflix for playing the next episode in just fifteen seconds when I am so desperately trying to go to sleep.

These pictures speak for themselves.

If it's a Friday night and we're slightly hungry with nothing to do, WE'RE GOING TO CHIPOTLE. This place was sent to Earth by the Gods. It's heaven wrapped in a tortilla. Or mixed in a bowl. Whichever you prefer. But really..... Chipotle is always a good idea.

Sometimes we would even go to chipotle twice in one week....

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All this stuff is good. And I could say so much more. But I think the biggest thing that I took away from this past semester, and from the year in general, is that I CAN DO HARD THINGS. I can stand up for myself. I can pass challenging classes. I can be a starter on the soccer team. I can live 2000 miles away from my family. And really? No big deal.

I LOVE YOU SVU!

*drops mic. walks off stage*