BYU Ballroom Competition

This past weekend I went on a little excursion with my mom and grandmother to watch my cousin and her husband compete in Smooth, Latin and Standard ballroom in Provo. Allie has been competing in ballroom for years, and I love when I can go watch. Allie and Kyle did very well, and it was so much fun to watch them and others perform and compete. Three professional couples came and they are seriously amazing. :) One of my favorite things to watch is the formation teams and the cabarets. I unfortunately don't have any photos of Allie and Kyle, but here is a video of the cabaret winners. They were so amazing, and I wanted them to win. Enjoy!

3.141592654

Yesterday was March 14 aka 3.14 aka PI Day.  I was going to do something cool, like make pie or something, but I totally spaced it. I was kinda forgetful all day yesterday.  I was going to work out in the morning, had socks in one hand, was walking towards the back door and realized wearing my socks and putting on shoes would probbaly be a super smart thing to do.  I almost forgot my backpack later that day when I was leaving for school.  Yeah I know, go me.  I hate days like that because usually I have an awesome memory.  Next year on 3.14, I will do something cool. Like make pie or something.

FHE

Tonight I had a really cool experience for Family Home Evening with my college ward.  We went to the Utah Food Bank and helped sort donated food.  At the food bank, a huge box (like quadruple the size of a refrigerator cardboard box) is filled with food, with everything from pasta to cereal to baby food to toothpaste to all sorts of cans.  The food is then organized into categories like peanut butter, canned fruit, baking condiments, dry foods, canned meals, nonfood items, baby supplies, etc. and is boxed up and sent to people in need all over Utah.  It was really cool to see how the Food Bank works behind the scenes.

In the food bank, a lot of the donated food is unfortunately expired.  Food that is expired cannot be given out to those in need and is just thrown away.  So next time you donate to those in need, make sure it's edible and within a certain time frame before being expired.

Doing this service project reminded me of how blessed I truly am.  I've always had a roof over my head, money in the bank and food available to eat.  It truly is remarkable how giving people are and how much small, simple deeds make a huge difference in people's lives.  I'm so grateful I was able to do an awesome service project tonight. 

Yesterday was a REALLY GOOD DAY.  :)

Decluttering.

Usually I'm an empathetic, happy person.  I love listening to people and their problems so I can help them.  I don't know why I've hit a wall.  Every little complaint someone says has annoyed me or has angered me so much lately.  I feel so mean, but I can't take it anymore.  I wish I was back to my normal self but maybe I try to take on too many things.  Yesterday I felt huge burdens on my shoulders, for no apparent reason.  I've felt weighed down for a couple weeks now too.  People, I really do love you and I want to be there for you, but I've had enough complaints for a while.  So... please, be happy?!

Ahhh, glad that's out of my system... Now for the real post.

While at work yesterday, a coworker of mine brought in some magazines for the front lobby.  As I was scanning the covers and ripping out her home address, one in particular caught my eye.  It was Oprah Winfrey's magazine.  A couple of the articles had to do with keeping only the things you need.  Another article was on organizing and the other article I read was about how simplifying your life is healthy.  I have set a goal to declutter my closet and storage drawers in my bedroom.  I don't have much as a college student, but I feel it would be very nice to throw away things I never wear or need.  I'm also looking forward to spring cleaning coming up.  I love cleaning and organizing, it's a type of outlet for me.  It's almost March, warmer days will be on their way.  :)

Quick Thought

If you are reading this,
you are alive.
If that's not something to smile about,
I do not know what is. 

Lean on Me

On Saturday I had the opportunity to go to a baptism of a guy now in my college ward.  It was awesome.  I haven't felt the Spirit like that in quite some time.  It was one of those moments when you are so grateful for listening to the little angel on your shoulder trying to get you to choose the right. 

Sometimes in our lives
We all have pain
We all have sorrow
But if we are wise
We know that there's always tommorow
Lean on me, when you're not strong
And I'll be your friend
I'll help you carry on
For it won't be long
'Til I'm gonna need
Somebody to lean on
Please swallow your pride
If I have things you need to borrow
For no one can fill those of your needs
That you won't let show
You just call on me brother, when you need a hand (Chorus)
We all need somebody to lean on
I just might have a problem that you'd understand
We all need somebody to lean on
Second Verse
Lean on me, when you're not strong
And I'll be your friend
I'll help you carry on
For it won't be long
'Til I'm gonna need
Somebody to lean on
You just call on me brother, when you need a hand (Chorus)
We all need somebody to lean on
I just might have a problem that you'd understand
We all need somebody to lean on
If there is a load you need to bear
That you can't carry
I'm right up the road
I'll share your load
If you just call me
Call me (if you need a friend)
Call me (Call me)
Call me (if you need a friend)
Call me (if you ever need a friend)

The Gospel is always there. The Atonement is real. Christ's love is strong and abundant in so many ways. Prayer works. The Church is TRUE.