Christyn Costley

Thank You Sevilla

2011-12-07T14:52:00.000-08:00

For handsome matadors

For the discovery of a new world and the man who died in poverty in to find it

For churros dipped in melted chocolate

For a failed worlds fair

For ancient egos and proving power through architecture

For men in tights and capes with ribbons

For nuns who bake

For exuding passion through every pore

For flamenco

Thank You Granada

2011-12-07T10:32:00.000-08:00

For snow capped mountains and olive soaked air

For chocolate breakfasts

For Moorish palaces with endless corridors

For cave-dwelling gypsies

For Isabelle and Ferdinand

For white stucco, green doors and blue plates

For Morrocan hot pockets

For the beauty of trans continental friendships

For chocolate, spearmint tea

For the Alhambra.

Thank You Barcelona

2011-12-02T10:58:00.000-08:00

For tumultuous rivers of cars that serenade me to sleep

For photographic memories after all is lost

For untamed beaches and untamed hearts

For Christmas lights and unearthing simplicity

For a maze of ancient cobblestone

For Gaudi
--
For a world wide church

For Christmas lights strung across charming balconies

For small food and deep conversation

For wandering solo

For Picasso
--
For energetic street music

For magical fountains

For colorful mosaics and arched catacombs

For humans diverged on one city street

For inspiring trees, leaves and python skeletons

For Gaudi

Unexpected...

2011-10-16T20:20:00.000-07:00

New happenings in my life:

1} I moved to an adorable apartment in SLC with a wonderful roommate

2} I am attending graduate school at Westminster College studying Non-Profit Management and I absolutely LOVE it- far more than I ever did my under-grad.

3} I am working as a waitress at a quaint French cafe which is a completely new line of work but I am slowly getting the hang of it (slowly being the key word)

4} I am traveling through Spain and Morocco in December

5} I am happy

The new happenings are so wonderful and so different from anything I had anticipated doing this fall but everything has turned out perfectly. I have spent the Autumn in my garden and among the leaves. I have made countless memories with my family. I have rediscovered why I loved Salt Lake and my new friends are inspiring.

Cheers to unexpected adventures!

National Park Service Life

2011-04-27T21:06:00.000-07:00

I am currently living in the Presidio of San Francisco which is an absolute dream. I live in dorm-style housing with 12 other people. It is an excitingly social atmosphere and everyone has a story to tell; a beautiful personality to share. We have access to so much here with such a perfect location and I can't wait to explore it all with my friends and adventurous spirits.

Work has been fantastic. All we did the first day was drive and hike throughout the park which took us to Muir Beach, Rodeo Beach and Conzelman's Peak in the Marin Headlands which were breathtaking.

Day two I worked with all of the power tools in the shop and built 30 signs to be placed as trail markers throughout the park in the morning and in the afternoon we hiked all over the Hawks Hill trail doing sign assessments, but I was mostly just consumed by the fantastic view it afforded of the entire bay with the Golden Gate Bridge in perfect view.

It is not very often that you can find a job that will let you hike and explore all day, take naps on the beach during lunch and allow you to play with power tools. I'm only a few days in, but I have a feeling that I could get used to this life.

Rice-a-Roni

2011-04-27T20:40:00.000-07:00

I made it to the beautiful city of San Francisco!

Cam and I started our caravan with a wonderful breakfast of fresh pancakes and fruit with most of the family. We then started up our engines, turned up the tunes, synced our walkie-talkies and took off for the Golden State.

We were making great time when Cam told me to get off at the airport, however I had no idea why. Turns out he forgot his tool belt in Ogden which is essential when installing security systems. So he drove back to meet Mom for the tools while I listened to Ted Talks in the Park-n-Wait lot at the airport. Don't you worry though, he didn't forget the treats grandma packed for him ( way more important).

Once we finally got on the road we raced to Reno.... literally. As we sped through the most mountainous state in the lower 48, we kept each other entertained by finding animals in the clouds, asking random trivia questions over the walkie-talkie and making friends with fellow commuters.

Soon we made it Reno, dropped off Cams car and headed over the Sierra Nevadas to grab some dinner in Tahoe. We stopped at Squaw Valley and we drooled over the beautiful landscape, epic mountains and beautiful homes dotting the mountainside. Once we made it down to the lake we took a long drive all the way around, stopping at Sprouts a wonderful organic cafe that had just what we were looking for - Ugly Gooey Loaded Nachos.

Another trip over through intense mountain passes, filled with conversations on all things under the sun, we made it back to Reno to crash on the floor of an empty apartment for a few hours before heading to California to stay.

Easter morning was white-knuckled snow driving down to the sun-drenched valley bellow. Once in the valley, we took small highways out to Point Reyes National Seashore which was filled with many adventures to picturesque lighthouses, hikes to daunting cliffs overhanging the sea and racing Indian boys up 300 steep steps.

After that we were on our way to my favorite part of the trip... California One. We took the historic highway through sweet-smelling Eucalyptus forests, quaint fishing towns and towering cliffs rising high above the vast ocean only to top it off with a cruise over the Golden Gate Bridge. That will be a drive that will forever stay engraved in my memory as a highlight of my life.

Cam helped me get settled in after which we ate some delicious Thai food in Haight and then in what seemed like an instant he was gone which left me feeling a bit empty inside. Empty and overwhelmed.

Looking Back...

2011-04-08T14:19:00.000-07:00

I recently was telling a friend about some of the funny things that happened to me while working at Disney and I wanted to share them with the other four people who read my blog :)

A boy about 7 years old…

Me: Oh my, aren’t you a brave dragon slayer! I see you have a sword of truth just like my Prince Phillip.

Boy: Yeah… you know I’ve seen your movie?

Me: You have heard of my story? Isn’t that wonderful! What was your favorite part?

Boy: The part where you die!

Me: Oh dear, I never died. I just fell asleep until my handsome prince came and gave me loves first kiss to wake me up (wink)

Boy: GROSS!!

Me: Well might we have a picture together so I can tell my Prince Phillip all about you?

Boy: Sure, I guess

And I gave him a big, pink kiss on the cheek for the picture to which he freaked out and the family LOVED.

A boy about 6 years old…

Me: Well look at what a brave prince I see!

Boy: I’m not a Prince!!

Me: Oh my, well what are you then?

Boy: Guess!

Me: Are you a King? Pirate? Dragon? Monster? Wizard?

Boy: I am a Jedi! Look at my light saber! (whips out a plastic light saber from his little sister’s stroller)

Me: A light saber? Oh how brave you must be to use such a weapon! Do you think Prince Phillip could use it to slay dragons?

Boy: No, they only work for Jedi’s. Tell Prince Phillip sorry.

A little girl about 5 years old…

Me: What is your favorite thing about being you?

Girl: I like everything about being me!

Me: What wonderful confidence you have! Do you know how important that is for all Princesses to have? And how fantastic that you have mastered it!

Girl: What is confidence?

Me: It is believing in yourself and not letting anyone or anything change your mind.

Girl: Oh! Then yes, I have confidence!

A mother starts to shove an infant into my arms ( which I’m not supposed to hold) so I kneel on the ground to follow protocol if a child is forced into my arms. The child is screaming and drooling all over me and I smile to get the picture over with. The mother exclaims, “ No, no that picture won’t work. Ya know, would ya mind just putting yer arm across her stomach to cover up all of that throw up on her shirt?” SICK! And I did it….

A 2 year old girl…

Me: Would you like to come sit on my special bench?

Girl: I have poop!

The mother steps in, embarrassed and states that it happened in line and she can’t sit down because of it

Me: ( Trying to control my laughter, as my photographer is laughing uncontrollably, I kneel down on the floor) What is your favorite color? Is it purple like your beautiful dress?

Girl: I have poop!

Yep that went on the for the rest of the conversation and through the photo as well…

Little girl about 4 years old (one of my favorite memories)

Girl: Princess Aurora, where have you been? I have been looking all over the kingdom for you! ( very distraught)

Me: Oh dear, I am so sorry sweetheart. Where did you look?

Girl: I climbed to the tallest tower, I swam across the lake with lots of scary alligators, I got really scared but my dad was there and my mom grew very tall, taller then my dad even and she scared the monsters away. Then we walked a lot and there were lots of pretty flowers in the fields and look I picked one for you! ( she brought me a beautiful gardenia)

Me: How did you know these were my favorite flowers? Don’t they smell magnificent?

Girl: The troll told me.

Me: Oh yes, which troll was it? I have many friends that are trolls

Girl: The one I met while I was flying. We were flying high up in the clouds and when I met him, he told me to be sure and bring you this special, magical flower cause it is your favorite and it was really hard to find. Just like you were hard to find.

Me: I’m so sorry I was hard to find. But I am certainly glad you finally found me! Now that you know where I am, will you come visit me again?

Don’t you just love that imagination?!

Girl about 12…

Me: What is your favorite thing about being 12?

Girl: Nothing

Me: Really? Nothing at all?

Girl: Yeah, I just don’t like getting older

Me: Well then what was your favorite thing about being 11?

Girl: Nothing

Me: Well unless you are like my friend Peter Pan you will have to keep growing up… What don’t you like about being 12?

Girl: I don’t like that you can’t trust adults

Me: Trust can be a very difficult thing, especially if someone wrongs you. However, you must always keep in mind that not all adults are the same and there are some you can trust.

Girl: Yeah

Here comes the grand finale!

A couple in their mid-twenties, with the whole family in tow…

Me: Oh what a beautiful couple! I see you found your dream Prince!

Girl: (embarrassed) yes he is my dream prince

Me: and is she your dream princess?

Guy: Yes she is

Me: Wonderful, shall we have a picture together?

Guy: Yes, can I just pose like this? ( gets on one knee)

Me: Oh my what a charming prince we have here, but I think Prince Phillip might get jealous.

Pulls out a RING… and I soon realize that I am in the middle of a proposal. Completely caught off guard, I step as far back as I can and hope I don’t get in all of the pictures.

Guy: Something cheesy

Girl: Crying... yes!

Family: Ohhhhhh, ahhhh, cheers, clapping, excitement

Then someone yells from the group: You were supposed to do it in front of Cinderella-her favorite Princess!

Guy: I thought you were Cinderella…

Me: Sorry handsome, we look similar but I just fell asleep while she ran from her Prince…

Guy: huh?

Me: She is right there, why don’t you go introduce your beautiful princess to her…

My Next Adventure...

2011-03-31T17:07:00.000-07:00

I was just offered a job working for the National Park Service at Golden Gate National Park. I am so excited to be able to spend time working in nature, swimming the sea and living in San Francisco rent free! In doing my research, I had no idea how massive Golden Gate Park was; I cannot wait to explore from Pacifica to the Marin Headlands ( here is a map)
Yep, that is where I will be living a beautiful, nature-filled life for the next 6 months. Anyone want to come visit?

Life is Beautiful

2011-03-27T18:39:00.000-07:00

Oh what a world my parents gave me....

The most darling girls who share their Bhutanese beauty with me each week

Celebrating Fat Tuesday with the Carrier family. Lisa was king for the day!

Visiting my dear friend Mallory in Rexburg to help with wedding plans... Congrats Mal!

Julie and I embracing the snow by snowshoeing the Cottonwoods

The beginnings of my wonderful garden. I can't wait for summer!

A proper send-off for Christopher driving solo back to Seattle

Julie and I ringing in the colors of springtime with the Krishnas

And the happiest news of all.... drum roll please... my best friend Lindsey is expecting her first little babe! I'm so excited!

Spring Tease

2011-03-25T13:57:00.000-07:00

Well hello again winter,
I thought you had left us, instead, you decided to surprise us with an extended visit. Thanks for keeping the tourists happy. However, if you need to leave again soon that would be alright. What happened to Phil miraculously not seeing his shadow this year? I had high hopes for an early spring and it was all just a big tease.

I am so hopeful for spring. I have a feeling it will be grand, as almost all spring seasons are. What a fantastic feeling of renewal, happiness and hope (not to mention, adorable dresses) that the one and only spring can bring about. I can't wait to trade in my boots for peep-toes, my chocolate truffles for fresh fruit and my snow tires for an open sun roof. This spring will be grand indeed.

I am also anticipating a change of scenery coming with the change of weather. It may be working in Golden Gate Park, an office in L.A., a foreign country or moving to the SLC- no matter the place, I am ready and excited for a new adventure. Resume's are in; fingers are crossed.

Until then... happy spring!

John Muir's Backyard

2011-03-23T19:49:00.000-07:00

I just happened upon this beauty and I cannot wait to relish in this once the weather warms...

We took a walk recently
in John Muir's backyard,
Wordsworth in celebration,
Milton in meditation,
and myself
bent on a few days' discovery
deep in the Range of Light.

Step by step,
strive and sweat, yet
caught in wonder at every turn.
Now and then drinking in the
magnificent lines of my companions--
already drunk on the fine wine
of fir and pine.

The wilderness ethic is
to leave things as they are;
and so it was, no scars,
nothing changed,
other than myself.

Crooked Teeth

2011-03-21T17:28:00.000-07:00

It was one hundred degrees
As we sat beneath a willow tree
Whose tears didn't care
They just hung in the air
And refused to fall

And I knew I'd made a horrible call
And now the state line felt
Like the Berlin wall
And there was no doubt
About which side I was on

I built you a home in my heart
With rotten wood, it decayed from the start

I braved treacherous streets
And kids strung out
On homemade speed
And we shared a bed
In which I could not sleep at all

That night the sun in retreat
Made the skyline look
Like crooked teeth
In the mouth of a man
Who was devouring, us both

I'm a war of head versus heart
And it's always this way
My head is weak, my heart always speaks
Before I know what it will say

And you can't find nothing at all
If there was nothing there all along
There were churches, theme parks and malls
But there was nothing there all along.

Happy Anniversary!

2011-03-14T19:25:00.001-07:00

30 years ago today...these two beautiful people decided that after two years of dating and no fatalities, that it was probably about time to move forward. Thank heavens! Through thick and thin (and endless bickering) they have been there to support each other, care for one another and laugh together.

Here is to another 30 years filled with as much love and adventure as the last.

Love you!

Cheers, to vulnerability...

2011-03-14T13:46:00.000-07:00

For acting within the living present.

For the chill of a new adventure.

For being strong enough to not hold back.

For being brave.

For failing.

For emotional sickness.

For a new beginning.

North by Northwest: Portland

2011-02-24T09:54:00.001-08:00

*Powells Books and Hollywood Theater pics from Flickr... I forgot my camera

North by Northwest: Highway 101

2011-02-23T10:44:00.001-08:00

North by Northwest: Seattle

2011-02-23T10:16:00.001-08:00

Happy Hour

Who is that walking over my Aurora Bridge?

Waiting for the trolley that never came...

Lago

Boat Elevator

Chocolate pasta, flying fish, magic shops and j-walking

Industrialized Mt. Rainier

The perfect place to read

Vulnerability

2011-02-23T08:21:00.000-08:00

I listened to this talk while traveling through the Columbia River Gorge. As I passed through thick forests, cascading waterfalls and beautiful bridges I was moved to tears at the insight Brene Brown gives about vulnerability. Enjoy!

Happy Groundhogs Day!

2011-02-02T14:09:00.000-08:00

One year ago today, was spent relaxing surrounded by 10 of my dearest D.C. friends and watching the film Groundhogs Day while eating chocolate dirt adorned with groundhogs glued to Popsicle sticks. This night was one of the first that my Jewish friend Katie had been truly introduced to how Mormons "party." Afterwards she dedicated an entire blog post about her experience and I wanted to share it with you while I reminisce about the good ol' days.

Being the social butterflies that they are, Mormons love any excuse to get together and celebrate, and give a toast to a random holiday with a nice cold glass of apple juice.
Take Groundhogs Day for example. For most of us, this day means nothing more than a reminder that it's cold and miserable outside, and will be for weeks to come (has he ever not seen his shadow?!). Perhaps you'll have a moment of sympathy for a poor little animal kept in captivity year round, and maybe, just maybe, you'll chuckle to yourself as Billy Murray briefly crosses your mind.

For Mormons, this day calls for much more. A simple throwback to the movie isn't enough. They must all get together and watch the movie, beginning to end. Inevitably, the discussion of whether or not Punxsutawney, PA is a real town will come up, and most likely plans to outdo the holiday celebrations the following year will ensue with talk of taking a road trip there to see Phil in person. Yes, that's right. Mormons would go out of their way to see a formerly respected member of the community dress up in a top hat and claim to talk to rodents.

Groundhogs Day is just one example of these well known but lesser celebrated holidays that the Mormons cannot get enough of. And you know what? They can have it. Because if they took Saint Patty's Day or Cinco de Mayo from the rest of us beer and tequila drinking heathens, we would throw a fit. Let them have Phil.

Oh, and extra points if the holiday celebration includes arts and crafts. Like, say, little groundhog faces made out of envelopes and googly eyes.

P.I.B. / P.I.F.

2011-01-23T15:06:00.000-08:00

It is time for that beautiful love/hate relationship to be rekindled yet again. Welcome Sundance.

Love the films. Hate the traffic.
Love the monetary support as these tourist dump money into the city. Hate how slow they walk in front of you.
Love meeting people from around the world. Hate how you have to pay for your normally free parking space.
Love people watching/ celebrity stalking. Hate the people that don't know how to drive their fancy rental SUVs.

The locals like to call the people who fly in for the two week affair, P.I.B, which is short for "People In Black". However, while sitting next to my beautiful window overlooking Main Street I think the more appropriate term is P.I.F. - People In Fur.

Although I have practically lived in this beautiful state for my entire life, I have never once participated in this annual ritual, in fact, I usually try my hardest to avoid it. This year, that pattern has changed. I have already seen two incredible films and have a few others I am excited to see. I have frequented the bar scene that are filled with PIFs and have plans to attend a few exhibits. I am quite fond of this new tradition. It makes dealing with these crowds, parking prices and high maintenance people much less dramatic because I'm actually taking part and enjoying the beauty of independent film making as well.

The Holidays

2011-01-23T14:59:00.000-08:00

Excerpts from another letter written to the same wonderful friend...

The holidays were unique this year, yet they were nothing more than typical. I had many friends fly in from all directions on the compass which was a pure delight to spend time with them. We drank lavender tea, laughed for hours on end and spent sleepless nights catching up on our non-existent love lives. I want to tell you about a few of the reunions I embraced.

First, the girls that grew with me. There are about 10 of us and it has become the only event during the year which we see each other. All of them are either married or engaged so it can become quite different conversation than I am used to. We spent time going around the circle having each girl give an update on her life and since we are all a bit detailed it can take an immense amount of time. I marveled at all of the growth and accomplishments that have taken place just within this small circle, especially since our rambunctious teenage years. To give you an idea- we used to call ourselves W.E.L.L. - We Enjoy Lots o' Lovin (consider yourself privileged because that is information we don't just tell anyone). Being surrounded by such strong, inspirational women it gave me hope for the future, especially since I know they will be phenomenal mothers.

The next reunion was between my dear friends from my Washington D.C. days. It was nowhere near the size of the last one but no less inspiring. I was able to see them several times throughout their stay and each time was a pleasure. From Fiestas to Frat parties, we painted the town. As you know, parties and the like are not really my thing, but it was fun nonetheless because of the company I was in. New Years particularly took me far out of my comfort zone. We decided to ring in the New Year Mormon style... picture this...thousands of young, single Mormons, a bounce house, sumo wrestling, dancing, stink bombs and all-you-can-eat ice cream. Remind you of elementary school yet? Maybe not in Georgia. Needless to say, it was a far cry from a great New Years Eve, however, the people watching was extraordinary.

Christmas was spent with family. Traditionally, on Christmas Eve we eat a classic Swiss/German meal called Raclette which is delicious and spend the rest of the night trying to digest. Christmas Day has changed a bit since we have to cater to many different schedules. On Christmas day I slept in until noon and then waited for four hours to open presents. Presents that we braved freezing weather and long lines to purchase on Black Friday. To explain, I will digress for a moment.

On Thanksgiving night, after going through all of the newspaper adds, I convinced my mom and brother to trek to the outlet mall for some door-busting fun. We threw on all of our warmest attire and drove an hour to the outlet mall and shopped until 4:00 AM in sub-zero temperatures. Needless to say, we were useless the next day after I finally woke up around 3:00 in the afternoon.

Throw in working every evening and you have my entire holiday season in a nutshell. Hope yours brought you closer to finding love, peace and discovering the beauty of humanity.

2010

2010-12-30T15:45:00.000-08:00

Dear 2010,

Don't let the door hit you in the butt on the way out.

Love,
Christyn

Quote

2010-12-20T16:09:00.000-08:00

I believe that imagination is stronger than knowledge - myth is more potent than history - dreams are more powerful than facts - hope always triumphs over experience - laughter is the cure for grief - love is stronger than death. - Fulghum

Amen.

Failure to Launch

2010-12-14T23:37:00.000-08:00

Excerpts from a letter I wrote to a dear friend of mine...

Life in Utah has been far from what my dreamy expectations led me to believe. Although nothing bad has happened to me, nothing really great has happened either. My emotions are as unreliable as the weather. Yes, let’s talk about the weather, isn’t that something that should come up in every abstract conversation?

My father and I were welcomed to Utah by a parade of snowflakes that were dancing in our honor. The flakes had so much fun parading about that they decided to stay for a while and partied for three days. Once they sobered up, it made for quite the mess to clean up. The most beautiful mess you could imagine. In that brief moment, I was completely content snuggled next the fire with the latest edition of Nat Geo, watching the entertaining snow. The next moment, I had the Ghost of Christmas’ Past knocking on my door. Only I didn’t have the advantage of dreaming it and there were no happy endings in sight. I may need to speak with Charles Dickens about revising his beloved classic.

Mother Nature soon decided to unpack her winter blanket and melt away all of the beautiful snow. Just as the snow, my emotions were weak and unstable- trying to sort through and glue their mismatched shapes back together again. It creates a very interesting dynamic having to move forward and forget the past all the while being physically surrounded by it.

I needed to run away… somewhere far… a place where no one would know me. I became anxious. I started planning trips, looking at my bank accounts and frantically trying to plan something… anything. I went for a drive. I drove far into the canyon and cried as loud and long as I could. I went for a walk. I walked aimlessly trying to get over my fear of this place. I survived.

As the green grass over took the snow, I’m not sure what happened next. After some reflection, contemplation and divine-intervention, a new emotion pieced itself together- acceptance. I accepted my family, my situation, myself, but most importantly, my past.

Hallelujah!

As the sun shines outside and my coat stays cozy in my closet, I have discovered new sights, smells and sounds in this old town of mine. I have explored a place that I thought would never alter. Just goes to prove that cheesy saying “ The only thing that’s constant is change.”

Christmas Lights

2010-12-06T10:22:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas. I love Coldplay. What a perfect combination. Merry Christmas everyone! (Thanks Lauren)

Truth

2010-11-30T17:10:00.000-08:00

I've found almost everything ever written about love to be true. Shakespeare said "Journeys end in lovers meeting." What an extraordinary thought. Personally, I have not experienced anything remotely close to that, but I am more than willing to believe Shakespeare had. I suppose I think about love more than anyone really should. I am constantly amazed by its sheer power to alter and define our lives. It was Shakespeare who also said "love is blind". Now that is something I know to be true. For some quite inexplicably, love fades; for others love is simply lost. But then of course love can also be found, even if just for the night. And then, there's another kind of love: the cruelest kind. The one that almost kills its victims. Its called unrequited love. Of that I am an expert. Most love stories are about people who fall in love with each other. But what about the rest of us? What about our stories, those of us who fall in love alone? We are the victims of the one sided affair. We are the cursed of the loved ones. We are the unloved ones, the walking wounded. The handicapped without the advantage of a great parking space! Yes, you are looking at one such individual. I've been cursed by being in love with a man who does not and will not love me back for the past four years.

I understand feeling as small and as insignificant as humanly possible. And how it can actually ache in places you didn't know you had inside you. And it doesn't matter how many new haircuts you get, or gyms you join, or how many nights out with your girlfriends... you still go to bed every night going over every detail and wonder what you did wrong or how you could have misunderstood. And how in the hell for that brief moment you could think that you were that happy. And sometimes you can even convince yourself that he'll see the light and show up at your door. And after all that, however long all that may be, you'll go somewhere new. And you'll meet people who make you feel worthwhile again. And little pieces of your soul will finally come back. And all that fuzzy stuff, those years of your life that you wasted, that will eventually begin to fade.

*The Holiday

Someday my prince will come....

2010-11-26T16:54:00.001-08:00

Hocus Pocus

2010-11-26T16:43:00.000-08:00

My fabulous friends from D.C. came to visit during my last few weeks at Disney. We had the most epic Halloween weekend complete with witches, wizards and haunted houses! It was so wonderful of them so come and spend time with me. It truly meant so much and I am so grateful for their friendship. Instead of going off on so many details, I will let the pictures do the talking...

Hogwarts

Butterbeer

Block Party Bash- Disney's Hollywood Studios

Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

Chaos and Curve Balls

2010-08-16T17:54:00.000-07:00

Life has seemingly been infested with chaos lately, therefore, my apologies for my lack of blogging. There are few, if any, that even noticed my hiatus but I'm glad to be back for the fact that I have so many stories to share that I know I won't remember unless I write them. Isn't that a scary thought? If for some reason blogger decides to disappear, there goes two years worth of my life and memories in written form. Someday I will archive my entries... but there is that all illusive someday.Someday I'll finish all those projects I have been working on. Someday I'll go to the gym. Someday I'll study. Well the someday to update my blog is today.

The month of July was a roller coaster of emotion.

July 2.

Gator Shining.

The tales to be told from this experience will be a separate blog post.

July 4.

I spent America's Independence Day working in a restaurant in Norway. For the first time in years that I have been in the states to spend the 4th, I end up working amongst foreigners all day long. After greeting each table I would end my conversation with "Happy 4th of July" to which most where unresponsive either due to a language barrier or pride. However, I did buy myself a watermelon which I cut up and took to work so that I could have some sort of classic Americana semblance. Also, I was able to watch the firework show in Epcot after work which was spectacular.

July 14.

Took a big leap and decided to go shopping at the numerous outlet malls around town. I don't like to shop unless I have a purpose and I have the money. I, of course, don't have the money but I know I needed three things:

1. A new swim suit

2. Tank tops

3. A new hat

I spent the day driving around town and getting lost. However, I not only got lost, I was lost on toll roads which adds up quite quickly and gets ridiculous the longer you drive. After finding the tank tops and hat, I was off to find my swim suit; saved the best for last... not. I found a suit I liked at Target but they didn't have it in my size so I have to drive around to not one, two or three stores, it took four stores until I finally found it.

My head was throbbing after such an expensive day and all I wanted to do was lock myself in my room and vow never to go shopping again. Life has a sense of humor and decided to throw another curve ball my way- a speeding ticket. A speeding ticket for the amount I just spent on clothes and gas. My expenses just doubled. After such a rotten day I decided I was going to make the next day epic and that it was...

July 15.

I took my adventurous friend Kim to the climbing gym with me, where we spent a perfect day climbing, relaxing and solving all the worlds problems. After I dropped her off for work, I went to the temple and joined a youth group for baptisms. I was surrounded by beauty, peace and temple workers telling me that I look like I am 14 years old. The Orlando temple is gorgeous and so I spent an hour so just wandering the grounds trying to resolve the tension that had wound around my life. After that, a stop at my favorite store, Whole Foods. Bliss.

July 19.

My wonderful cousins from St. Louis came to visit me! I set them up in the Animal Kingdom Lodge (my very favorite Disney resort) and apparently I charmed the reservation agent because not only did they get an amazing rate but they were put in the presidential suite! It had everything from an office to a dining room, a fire place to a jetted tub, plasma screens in every room and a balcony that overlooked the entire savanna. It was a treat to say the least and was so much fun to see my cousin so excited. They though I was the coolest cousin and that I always have those kinds of connections... I'm just going to let them keep thinking that.

They spent time exploring the parks and came to visit me while on set, then the took off for Clearwater beach. I joined in the fun and we had a great time in our "girls only" room where we stayed up late watching Hannah Montana Forever. The next day we drove to Fort De Soto beach which is incredible natural beach with warm, calm, crystal clear water and sugar-white sand. We spent the day diving for sand dollars and catching crabs. That night the girls got their hair braided on the boardwalk and I got a tattoo. (henna) I taught Emily how to long board on the way home. Then we played an intense game of miniature golf that lasted late into the night.

It meant so much to have them come visit me. It had been years since I had seen them last and we had some catching up to do. I just wish they could have stayed longer!

July 28.

Here comes another curve ball-heard back from Graduate school and because my Math score on the GRE was just barely too low they couldn't accept me this semester. However, I can retake the exam and reapply which I plan on doing in the winter. For now, I decided to stay in Florida and save money. This was an incredibly difficult decision because I truly had my hopes set on being in Utah this fall. I miss my family.

I took the opportunity to drive my frustration out by taking a trip to St. Augustine. I cried the whole way. My disposition was brightened once I saw this adorable, history-filled town. I ate cupcakes while strolling used book stores (my favorite type of store) I explored the old fort and paid my respects at the oldest school house in America. I ate a falafel at an adorable Greek cafe on the river and climbed 219 steps to the top of a magnificent lighthouse. I spent time contemplating my next steps in life while amongst the clouds and while up there a little 9 year old girl with one leg joined me. She had climbed all of those steps with her crutches and had such enthusiasm that she wanted to do it again! I was inspired by her charisma and fortitude and after that divine intervention I realized that my life is far from over. She was my inspiration.

July 31.

Moved out of my house and officially became homeless. I perfected the art of couch surfing and mooching off of friends until I found the place where I am currently. However, turns out I have to move again come September 1st. That makes 4 moves in the 5 months I have been here. Blah.

That wraps up July. Stay tuned for August....

Give Kids the World

2010-06-24T10:59:00.000-07:00

"We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give." -W.C.
Two days ago I had the pleasure of being introduced to Princess Zoe. She was a beautiful princess with curly blonde hair and eyes as blue as the sea. Any outsider viewing her from a distance would see her beauty and grace and would never believe her incredible story, especially me. While at work, I had noticed her special " Make a Wish Foundation" button securely fastened to her shirt and knew to spend as much time with her as she would like, however, I didn't know that I was her wish. Upon meeting the family I greeted the girls and parents to which her mother told me her heroic story before I even had a chance to sit down with the children. Zoe was diagnosed with cancer last year and her only wish was to go to Disney World to meet Princess Aurora- her favorite princess. They had been at the parks for four days and even though they had done the princess dining and seen the shows, Princess Aurora was no where to be found... until now. Instantly my eyes began to fill with tears as I humbly took on the role to fulfill this girl's dream. It took me a minute to collect my thoughts and I didn't know what I could do that would make this experience special. I felt entirely unworthy of such an immense moment. After talking to her about her kingdom, her good fairies and all of the wonderful adventures she had been on I sent her on to see Cinderella and Belle. I would choke up every time I saw her out of the corner of my eye and as she was leaving the room and stopped my line and ran to give her a big hug only to find out that through her treatments, she had lost most of her hearing, so she wasn't able to hear most of anything I had said to her earlier, but she was so excited to just sit with me. My heart sunk as I watched her leave the room, I wish that there was more I could have done. Even though I have seen so many children in her same situation since I have worked here, this one was the most powerful.

I have been blessed to be able to volunteer at the most beautiful place on earth called Give Kids the World Village. It is non-profit organization that provides a vacation of a lifetime for terminally ill children and their families. It is a place where families are able to come completely cost free for an entire week and get to see and do everything central Florida has to offer while staying at a beautiful resort built just for kids. There are 140 villas where the families stay, each can sleep 8 people and comes with a fully stocked fridge and gifts for the children are delivered every night. The villas are more than just a hotel room, it is a home complete with a driveway, front porch with rocking chairs and a mailbox. At the resort there are activities every night from American Idol to Santa and Mrs. Claus visiting a Winter Wonderland. There is an ice cream palace that is open all day long which many of the kids line up at 7:00 AM for a banana split breakfast, playgrounds created after the Candy Land board game and a swimming pool that has special wheelchairs for the kids to use so that they can play in the water as well. Give Kids the World has provided lasting memories for over 100,000 families since it's opening in 1986. As I walked around the village today, tears streamed down my face as I noticed so many details that make it such a peaceful place for those who deserve it most.

Pepsi is having a contest to give away $250,000 to any charitable organization that has the most votes. Give Kids the World is in the running to use the money towards refurbishing the villas. Everyone can vote once a day for the month of June. Since June is almost over they need all the votes they can get. Please take ten minutes out of your day and vote for Give Kids the World here... www. refresheverything.com/givekidstheworld. Please vote everyday throughout the rest of this month. I have witnessed what a difference this organization has made to the lives of so many families and I will never forget the last impressions it has made in my life.

Papa Cost

2010-06-19T21:19:00.000-07:00

( This picture is classic dad... goofy hat, shades,cargo shorts,a t-shirt under a life jacket that's too small and tevas. Perfection)

My daddyo always taught me:
- Pickle juice will always be served whenever you ask what is for dinner
- There is no sweeter sound than an elk bugle
- Everything you could ever need out of life can be found in the isles of Home Depot...not Lowes...Home Depot
- Commuting during rush hour is an art form
- There are plenty of fish in the sea, all you gotta do is go fishing.
- You are never too old to do anything... SCUBA Diving, Wake boarding, Backpacking through Europe etc.
- Spending time in nature can bring immense peace
- Patience is something we all could use a little more of
- The light of Christ lives within everyone, so we must never judge off of shallow reasoning
- Family is most important and will take precedence in all aspects of life
- Reading a good book on the front porch while the sun sets beyond the mountains is ... perfect bliss

The lessons taught are vast and the memories behind each one are priceless. My gratitude for each lesson is not able to be constrained to the written word, but thank you will have to suffice for now. I love you daddyo! May this Father's Day be the best yet!

Inspiration

2010-06-16T20:12:00.000-07:00

Cherish your solitude.

Take trains by yourself to places you have never been.

Sleep out alone under the stars.

Learn how to drive a stick shift.

Go so far away that you stop being afraid of not coming back.

Say no when you don't want to do something.

Say yes if your instincts are strong, even if everyone around you disagrees.

Decide whether you want to be liked or admired .

Decide if fitting in is more important than finding out what you're doing here.
-E.E.

Sold my Soul

2010-06-16T17:14:00.000-07:00

May is finally over... thank heavens. June has flown by.

It felt like May lasted a lifetime, probably because my latest wound is still fresh and painful. I have discovered that there are moments in your life where it's a struggle to even get out of bed in the morning, to breath, to live. I couldn't have made it through without Heavenly Fathers divine help.

I have officially sold my soul to Disney. 10-14 hours a day, 6-7 days a week. It has been good to keep busy but exhausting.

Studied my brains out every night and during every break for the GRE.

My incredible best friends came to visit me! it was the most perfect trip ever. It had been years since we had spent time together and we definitely made up for lost time :)

I took the GRE and have applied for graduate school. Fingers crossed!

Have been making many new friends. John took me sailing and stand-up paddle boarding which was incredible cause we saw dolphins and manatees. I discovered a new love- paddle boarding.

Got kicked out of my house by my landlord cause she was selling the house. Had to move in the midst of an already stressful life.

My wonderful parents came to visit and I was able to take a whole week off to spend with them exploring the parks, resorts and spending four perfect days at Vero beach. Highlight: We rented a catamaran for an afternoon and went sailing surrounded by sea turtles. I love sailing.

Had to go to the hospital...first time in a long time. Strep throat, upper respiratory infection and pink eye are a bad combo.

Now I am just trying to get feeling better and get back into the swing of working since I have been out of the loop for a bit.

Things to look forward to:

Hearing back from graduate schools

My Washington D.C. friends coming to visit me in July

Road trip across the country

Moving back to beautiful Utah in July for the first time in almost 2 years

Adventures Around the World

2010-06-13T18:30:00.000-07:00

Adventures Around Town

2010-06-13T18:25:00.000-07:00

Rock Sale!

2010-05-21T19:59:00.000-07:00

This is the BEST song ever created! Everyone must listen to it but... you first have to understand why it's so amazing.

Maren, Lindsey and I have been best friends since we were three years old. We were somewhat odd but very creative children. This past week has been spent laughing about all of the ridiculous games we used to play that were insanely imaginative. We also laughed about all of the predicaments we used to get ourselves into because of our awesome imaginations. One of the things we are best known for is our "Rock Sales"... that's right ladies and gentlemen; we used to sell rocks from my garden on the side of the road just like most children sell lemonade. We never thought twice about it doing it because we thought everyone loved rocks as much as we did. I mean who wouldn't want hand polished garden rocks? We didn't realize that the people who actually stopped to buy the rocks probably just felt bad for us and our poor situation, while we were thinking about how genuis it was.
Anyway, we had an amazing childhood filled with stories much like this one, but this one tends to be the tipping point and sets far apart from the rest of the world.

Princess Pics

2010-05-11T20:15:00.000-07:00

Drum Roll Please....

2010-05-11T19:58:00.000-07:00

After 2 years of marriage-hood my bestest friends are back from the dead and they are coming to visit me so we can be three peas in a pod for an entire week of perfect bliss!!

Ok, so that may have been a bit dramatic but I can't contain my excitement with the thought of them coming because it truly has been years since we have spent longer than a few hours together! I already have plans for beach excursions, Disney Days and lounging by the pool for some amazing relaxation. I am so amazed and humbled by how truly perfect my friends are to me. In times when I need them the most they are always there for me and now not only emotionally but physically. I can't believe that my best friends since I was three years old are still my best friends at age 22 and I am overwhelmed with gratitude for all that they have done for me. I love them so much and I can't wait to see them!

Mama Launa

2010-05-09T20:40:00.000-07:00

My mama always taught me....
- Cleanliness is next to godliness
- You must always rinse your dishes before you put them in the dishwasher
- You are to dress in your nicest attire when going out in public especially when Grandma is coming as well
- All food groups must be represented in each meal
- Guests are to be treated as kings and catered to on every level
- All parties must be well planned and food must always be served
- Education is to be taken seriously
- You can always trust in children because they are incapable of lying
- There is no dream too big
- Family will never abandon you, even if at times they hurt you
- Heavenly Father knows our needs better than we do

Thank you Mom for your countless words of wisdom! Here's to you on your special day, may your teachings live on throughout the generations... I love you!

My Life in Pictures and Movies

2010-04-20T08:26:00.000-07:00

Better Late Than Never!

2010-04-17T06:29:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my favorite big bro Cameron on April 14th!

Cameron...
- Always makes me laugh, even when I'm trying to be really upset
- Is the best story teller in all of the land
- Has the most adventurous spirit than anyone I know
- Loves the mountains more than anyone I know
- Gets what he wants when he puts his mind to it... like when searching for an extremely specific truck in an extremely specific price range :)
- Has the most unwavering testimony
- Is moving to Boston! And I'm so sad I don't live in D.C. to come and visit him!
- Mostly, he is the best big brother Cameron ever and I miss him very much!!

Happy Birthday bro! May this year be the most epic yet!

I Made It!

2010-04-17T05:47:00.001-07:00

After 5 days straight of intense training, I finally made it through and graduated with 100% on my assessment! It is quite a workout and proved very difficult most of the time, but the children's excitement makes it all worth it. I have found that my favorite part of my job is watching the parents return to their childhood and show just as much joy in seeing Mickey Mouse as any child does. I wish there were more moments in life that brought us back to that mindset. The mindset where the smallest, simple things bring the most happiness. I feel like lately it has been difficult for me to find joy in any good thing that happens to me no matter the size. However, even when I am having a particularly bad day, being able to make someone else happy through who I portray is amazing. I wish I could say that it was genuinely me bringing that happiness into their lives but there is no way I could take credit for Walt's imagination.

I am still adjusting to life in Florida. Here are a few things I still have yet to get used to:
- Allergy season... My allergies have never been this bad before
- Humidity... Waking up each morning to a car covered in dew and pollen
- Animals... This week while driving home from work I saw an Alligator just sunning himself in the road. The next day I had to stop for two HUGE cranes to walk politely across the cross walk. Where am I?!
- Mornings... Every morning there are hot air balloons filling the skies and I am just awe-struck with how graceful and beautiful they are
-Fog... I feel like I am in some eerie horror film every morning with the fog looming all around me
- Disney Discounts... Almost everywhere I go around here offers Disney Cast Member Discounts and it is AWESOME!
- Southern Lingo... Who calls canker sores, mouth ulcers? I finally learned what a crawfish "bowl" boil is and what a crawfish actually looks like
- Beaches... I forget how close I am to beach and can't wait to take off for one today! I love the ocean!

Bowled Peanuts

2010-04-09T08:35:00.000-07:00

Upon leaving for my Florida adventure, I spoke with my friend William who is from Georgia to get some insider information about Savannah and the south in general. He gave me some great tips and one he showed extreme excitement for was " Ya'll have to get some bowled peanuts!" Bowled peanuts? What in the world? He then went on to explain that it was much like edamame- which is basically boiled soy beans. So after some translation I came to find he meant " boiled peanuts".

During the road trip we kept our eyes peeled for boiled peanuts and only saw one stand that offered them, however, we didn't stop, thinking we would see them everywhere. We didn't. Yesterday I was driving around town, trying to get a feel for what is close by and I drove past a stand selling fruit and boiled peanuts! I was so excited that I finally found one, so I pulled over and bought a cup. The man selling them wasn't very reassuring. I told him that this was my first time trying them and I'm not sure how many I should get, to which he replied " You probably won't like them. Not many people do."

His reply made me nervous as I sat in my car eating the peanuts shell and all! After about twenty minutes of chewing, I finally realized that probably wasn't the way I was supposed to eat them. The next one I tried, I cracked open the shell and ate the greasy, hot peanut inside. It was fine, but it was not as good as I hoped. It just tasted like a hot peanut. I don't know what I was expecting, but apparently I was expecting more then the name description. They might as well put on the sign " Dull, dumb hot peanuts for sale"

I drove away bitter about my peanuts and how bad they were making my car smell for nothing. When I got home, I put the peanuts on the counter and didn't think a thing about them. My housemate Caitlin from Lousianna came home and exclaimed " Where'd y'all pick up some bowled peanuts?" I could not contain my laughter and amazement at how this really is a southern thing! I told her my story and she was shocked that I had never heard of them, let alone not have them at every football game in Utah. I then told her to eat the whole cup cause I thought they were disgusting. She tried one and told me they were not very good and to try the " Cajun Bowled Peanuts" sometime. She also told me that when she is trying to describe edamame to her friends she tells them that it's just like boiled peanuts, and I found that hilarious. Different worlds.

A few hours later, my other housemate Taylor Ann from South Carolina comes through the door and says " Are these bowled peanuts?" Caitlin and I started rolling with laughter, and Caitling replies, " Christyn has never had them!" We told our stories and Taylor Ann tried a few while reiterating what Caitlin said ... apparently I picked the wrong stand to try my first batch of boiled peanuts.

At least I know now that not all boiled peanuts are dull and gross and now I have a team that is on the lookout for a good stand so that I don't have another bad experience. Who knew there were multiple ways to boil peanuts??

Disney Days

2010-04-07T09:42:00.000-07:00

My mom was able to fly in for Spring Break to help me get settled in my new apartment and help with many other things. It was really wonderful to have her here for a week and we had a great time. We were able to get much accomplished and had lots of fun while were at it. Mom and I spent time in the Magic Kingdom and I made her go on every ride with me, she was a good sport- I even took her for a spin on the Wild Teacups. Then we spent a day getting my apartment cleaned and scrubbed from top to bottom, it was a lot of work but the end result is fabulous and so worth it. I'm so grateful for my clean, beautiful room.

We were also able to watch the shuttle launch which was amazing. I never thought it would be so cool but I am so glad we woke up in the wee hours of the morning to do so.

My apartment is really nice. I live with 3 other girls that work at Disney as well, two of them work as Mickey and Minnie and the other works at Planet Hollywood. They are all very fun and have lots of insider tips that I am already benefitting from. We have extra couch space and really nice swimming pool... anybody want to come join?

My first official day at Disney was yesterday.It was a training class that was unlike any other I have been through. The material was much the same- safety first, work efficiently and be courteous to guests but with presentations by Mickey Mouse himself and backstage tours of the Magic Kingdom theme park it ended up being much more entertaining. Disney World is built over a series of underground tunnels that help employees get from one end of the park to the other without having to be seen. I had heard about these but I was finally able to go through them yesterday. It was exciting. It was not quite as glamorous and I had hoped, especially since the whole time you are walking there is trash being transported across the park through giant tubes above your head, traveling at 60 miles per hour- pretty noisy. The day ended with a schedule and info on what I will be doing for the first few weeks. Apparently I fit the height range of Mr.Smee, Goofy, Buzz Lightyear and few other characters so I will be training for that before I can move onto my Princess training :) This all so bizarre and strange to me, I truly am in a different world and I can't wait to have hilarious stories to share. Until then... have a magical day! haha

Road Trippin' USA!

2010-04-06T13:47:00.000-07:00

I clearly wasn't thinking straight when I bought my 2-door coupe because somehow I forgot entirely that I might actually NEED trunk space. So after many restless nights thinking about how everything was going to fit the day finally came that I could start packing it. It was quite an endeavour especially considering the lack of a luggage cart, man power and arm strength and I had to take each box individually down 12 floors and out to the car. On one trip I was taking my heaviest box, filled to the brim with books, out to the car when I realized that I didn't have my car keys.... my room keys...or my cell phone- nothin' and the door was locked. It also happened to be on the day that all of the maintinence people were at a conference in a city 2 hours away. So after waiting in the lobby for two hours and pathetically attempting to read and relax; Maurice came to the rescue.

On Thursday, I packed up the car, cleaned the apartment and headed to downtown to meet Julie and Shannon for Baked and Wired cupcakes for the last time. ( Oh how I miss them already.. the cupcakes, not the girls.... kidding) It was fun and I was grateful for time with them and that I was able to relax for a bit. The cherry blossoms were beautiful around the monuments and the weather was perfect.

The next day was moving day! Jacob and I took set off for Wilmington North Carolina- a quaint beach town that just so happens to be the home of Dawson's Creek. haha. We stopped in Fayetsville and Elizabethtown on the way.

After that we headed to Charleston South Carolina with a stop in Myrtle Beach. Myrtle Beach was filled with mini golf courses and gift shops but the beach was beautiful. Charleston was extremely charming with beautiful shops and beautiful houses.

Then we were off to Savannah Georgia with a stop in Beaufort South Carolina. I absolutely loved Savannah. There were gardens in every intersection, spanish moss hanging from the trees and beautiful architecture.

Next stop... Lake Buena Vista, Florida!

It was such a wonderful road trip filled with adventure, fun and a great start to a new journey.

As of Late...

2010-03-18T21:16:00.000-07:00

Got snowed in during the most epic snowstorm of all time... absolutely beautiful and SO much fun!

Have you ever seen grocery isles like this before?? Who knew... don't you worry though, there were plenty of Oreos and E.L. Fudges to keep me fed-apparently Marylanders like the boring healthy food.

Explored Anapolis the capitol of this great state of Muuurrrryland

Worked crazy long hours and actually saved some money for once.

Spent time with my wonderful friends at Lake Anna for one last time.

Gave work my two weeks notice

Sold my contract to my apartment :(

Bought my first sweet ride...( which was quite possibly the biggest hassle of my life thus far)

And am moving to bright, sunny, warm, FLORIDA next week! Here I come!

I am extremely sad leaving my incredible friends that I have here in D.C. but I am excited for the new adventure! Anyone want to play on the beach? Give me call :)

22

2010-01-22T17:42:00.000-08:00

The number on my middle school basketball uniform
The number of cousins I have on my Dad’s side of the family
The number of my mom’s homemade oatmeal cookies I can eat in one sitting
The number of times I have almost choked to death due to drinking and laughing at the same time
The number of people at my current job who think I am a strange, opinionated Mormon
The number of times I have said the word “rad” thinking I was cool but realizing soon thereafter that I was far from it
The number of times I have asked my grandma for her famous cake recipe even though I always say I will write it down and not have to ask again
The number of proposals I received daily while living in Ecuador
The number of countries I have been blessed to have traveled to in my life thus far
The number of items I still need to add to my “ 100 Things to do Before I Die” list
The number of items I have checked off of my “100 Things to do Before I Die” list
The number of years I have explored, studied, risked and lived to tell about it.

Even though I am dreading the thought of telling people I am 22 years old, I am excited for the chance I have to live another year. Who knows what it will hold? If someone would have told me when I had just turned 21 that I would live in Washington D.C., explore the dusty roads of East Africa, work for two prominent NGOs, create lasting friendships, spend the summer weekends basking on the shores of Lake Anna- If someone would have told me that in one year I would be tested and tried more then any other year in my life, that I would find strength I never thought imaginable and that I would learn one of the greatest lessons of my life which is that there is no greater love then the love of my family- I would have brushed them to the side thinking they have no idea who I am and where my life is headed.

Now, more then ever, I have realized that I just have to ride this roller coaster of life and let things happen as they are presented. Opportunities will come and opportunities will go, happiness will consume me and sadness will overtake me, my heart will grow and my heart will break; yet, somehow, I just have to stand still in the midst of this beautiful chaos. This is my life and I am excited. Another year, another chapter and I can’t wait to fill the pages.

Big Changes

2009-11-17T18:21:00.000-08:00

Big changes have consumed my life lately and it has proved that my life is anything but normal. It has been an exhaustingly exhilerating time and I have discovered strength I never thought possible through an incredibly loving Father in Heaven.

Change #1- My job was taking a toll on my mental, physical and spiritual state. It was somehow not the right fit for the moment, therefore I found the need at the end of October to resign.

Change #2- Flew to Utah for some much needed rest and mental stability for a week over the Halloween weekend.

Change #3- Upon returning to DC I found a new job working at a Spa- I absolutely love it and the people I work with. Meanwhile, I am keeping my eyes open for more career building opportunities.

Change #4- Most excitingly (drum roll please) I am flying down to Florida in two days to take a chance at becoming one of these lovely ladies...

I'm not betting too much money on this superficial lottery, but I thought it was at least worth a try:) Wish me luck!

Extraordinary Machine

2009-11-04T11:30:00.000-08:00

I certainly haven't been shopping for any new shoes
I certainly haven't been spreading myself around
I still only travel by foot and by foot, it's a slow climb,
But I'm good at being uncomfortable, so
I can't stop changing all the time

I seem to you to seek a new disaster every day
You deem me due to clean my view and be at peace and lay
I mean to prove I mean to move in my own way, and say,
I've been getting along for long before you came into the play

If there was a better way to go then it would find me
I can't help it, the road just rolls out behind me
Be kind to me, or treat me mean
I'll make the most of it, I'm an extraordinary machine

-Fiona Apple

I love this song... if you haven't heard it, check it out - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YsMZkCLxfkM&feature=related

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-29T10:02:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone has a wonderfully festive and spooky Halloween!

Check out how Lisa and I decorated our apartment for this fantastic holiday...

My favorite time of the year

2009-10-29T09:43:00.000-07:00

Autumn is the eternal corrective. It is ripeness and color and a time of maturity; but it is also breadth, and depth, and distance. What man can stand with autumn on a hilltop and fail to see the span of his world and the meaning of the rolling hills that reach to the far horizon? -Borland

Time Travelin'

2009-09-28T08:02:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I found an absolute treasure while exploring. Upon entering Kensington Maryland, it seems much like a suburban neighborhood with adorable houses, but not much else. Somewhere in the midst of this neighborhood I fell through a tiny crack in time and was transported back to the 1940's. I found myself in the middle of a picturesque, town-square; complete with a small train station and tea room. Antique shops filled the old victorian mansions and red-brick buildings while children skipped around old men playing chess. The gas station hadn't changed either with pumps that were far from being self-serve; had it not been for the 2009 Honda Accord getting gas I truly would have thought I was in some sort of time-warp.
While exploring I also found the Noyes Children Library, established in this incredibly restored school house. Does this not just take your breath away and make you long to be 5 years old again?

Another stop on yesterday's treasure hunt and gem of Kensington Maryland is the temple.... could this town be any more perfect?

National Book Festival

2009-09-28T07:29:00.000-07:00

On Saturday I woke to clouds that looked like this...

So I packed my umbrella and grabbed the list my mom sent me and made the trek downtown for this...

There I was greeted by thousands upon thousands of people waiting in lines the length of football fields. I hurried to the purchasing tent and tried to find the books my mom wanted autographed, and waited in line for 40 minutes just to buy them.

Then I rushed back out to take a chance at waiting in line only to find that once I got within sight distance of the author, his signing time was up.

So I moved onto the next- having no idea what chaos I was getting into. Who knew Rick Riodian was so popular? Especially since I hadn't even heard his name before that day. The line eventually turned into a mob of angry parents and I was out of there faster then you could say Percy Jackson. Therefore, I just decided to skip all of the other authors I was going to try for and stalwartly stood in line to see this woman...

Who wrote this book...

While waiting, the rain decided to join in the fun. I was thinking that I had outsmarted everyone with my umbrella and coat so that in no time I would be the first in line cause everyone else was not as prepared.

I was wrong...

Good thing Lois Lowry was such a nice person and decided to stay for an extra hour to sign since the line was so long, and the rain was so intense or else I wouldn't have had the chance to meet her. That's right, I met Lois Lowry, which made that entire fiasco worth every minute.

A new favorite...

2009-09-25T09:01:00.000-07:00

"Coming home from very lonely places, all of us go a little mad: whether from great personal success, or just an all-night drive, we are the sole survivors of a world no one else has ever seen."
- John le Carre

Today I stumbled upon this beautiful quote- an inspiration. Thank you, Shannon, for sharing it with me.

One year wiser...

2009-09-24T06:13:00.000-07:00

Today is my Daddyo's birthday! Since I can't be there to take a trip with him to Richfield and watch elk all day like I did last year, this post will have to suffice.I have a made a list of ten of my favorite random memories of my dad: ( in no particular order)

-His contagious laugh and the way he makes me feel like I'm actually really funny. He will laugh at every dry, ridiculous and drama-filled joke or story I have up my sleeve.

-Watching him read or examine anything with his glasses pushed all the way to the end of his nose.

-Going "backpacking" through Europe together therefore buying enough chocolate to fill a suitcase and now having dad plan "chocolate parties" every time I am in town so that we can finish it... two years later.

-The way he packs. If he is going to stay in a hotel he hardly brings anything, but if he is camping- you can plan on him packing everything anyone might need complete with extra sleeping bags,tents, fishing poles (even in places with no lakes), binoculars, oh and did I mention the kitchen sink?

- Our mutual love of the sunset. Some of my favorite childhood memories were during nights when we used to sit on the front porch, read stories and watch the sunset.

-How he lights up when anything involves nature and/or animals. Whether is being able to spot an eagle overhead during morning commutes, or a family reunion to Zion's, or scouting trips to Topaz... you can count on him being excited.

- Taking a trip with him to watch the Elk in Richfield. I must admit, I had my doubts about it being supremely boring, but that was soon short-lived after seeing how much fun dad was having(and seeing him decked out in head-to-toe camo). It was truly one of the funnest and memorable trips I have had. I think he was supposed to be born a mountain man...

-Commuting to Salt Lake together. Most of the time I was asleep, grumpy or frantically studying but he never got upset about having to drive all the time. Plus, he taught me the "Rules of Commuting"...very valuable knowledge.

-I have never heard him in my entire life complain about having to work or drive so far to get there.

-His support for all my dreams, ambitions and goals in life. He has taught me that everything is possible and has made it possible for them to become realities.

So Happy Birthday Daddy-o! Thank you for all the laughs, tears, words of advice, support and memories. I look up to you in every way. I hope this year is the best yet! I love you!

Globalization

2009-09-22T13:55:00.000-07:00

Greatest line about Mormonism was spoken from the mouth of my co-worker who happens to be from a village in Namibia… how she knows about Utah/Mormon culture, I will never know. The world is truly getting smaller.

“Christyn, if you’re Mormon, why don’t you wear all those funny clothes like everyone else in Utah? I guess maybe you only wear those when you are in Utah. But you just look so normal being here in DC. ”

“ What funny clothes are you talking about?”

“ You know, the ones like the Amish people wear…”

She clearly was thinking I was part of the Fundamentalist LDS church which was understandable, yet hilarious and made for great conversation

Cookies

2009-09-21T10:25:00.000-07:00

Life is tough some days, especially when some days feel like everyday. Though it has not been stressful or overwhelming, it has taken a beating on my self-esteem and confidence. All I long for right now is to pack my bags, fly home and sit around the kitchen table with my family, while my mom’s famous cookies bake in the oven.

There is nothing better for the soul then a worn, wooden table, warm cookies and a listening ear.

Back From the Dead

2009-09-15T08:34:00.000-07:00

While many of you are starting your fall with new seasons of your favorite TV shows such as Lost, House, 24 and Gossip Girl (just admit it, you love Gossip Girl) I have been sucked back in time. There are two reasons for this... 1. The TV we have is so old that we couldn't even hook up a DVD player without a converter box, therefore cable was out of the question and 2. My roommate got hooked on Dawson's Creek while stuck babysitting at her sister's house for a weekend, so somehow I got roped into it as well-even against my own will I might add.

While you all are wondering if Jack Bauer will ever die or how Dr. House knew about a disease that only exists in one other person in the world, I am nostaligcally living my life in the 90's... complete with belly shirts, "golden arches" hair styles and chunky heels. My friends and I have become so obsessed with Dawson's mainly because we don't have cable so we can't kill time with any other show and also, because we have become so wrapped up in all the drama. It has started to consume much of our free time because we are dying to know who Joey ends up with(Don't give it away if you know) and it's getting way more intense! Who knew? Good thing we only have two more seasons to go... pathetic, I know.

Home Sweet Home

2009-09-11T17:01:00.000-07:00

Here are the long awaited pictures of my cute little apartment. I had to wait until many of our decorating projects are complete... there are still plenty more to go, but I thought I would share what I have now. Enjoy!
The view during sunset is by far my most favorite part of this apartment.

Lisa and I made these during a late-night craft craze. They are made from vintage wallpaper and we love them.

This is yet another craft project... a collage wall of our world travels. I love it and find myself staring at it all the time.

Birthday Mama!

2009-09-09T10:18:00.000-07:00

It's my mama's birthday on this very special 09/09/09! Woohoo!

10 of my favorite random memories with my mom: (in no particular order)
- Coming home to my mom blasting the recording of a live Earth Wind and Fire concert throughout the entire house while she is cleaning, therefore she never hears it when I sneak up behind her to say hello which inevitably freaks her out.

-Taking a mother/daughter trip to Disneyland in September 05' and having an absolute blast

-Countless craving excursions to Taggarts Grill

-The way my mom always loves to party. Seriously, I have never known a time where my mom has turned down throwing a party

-How everyone in the family gives her a hard time about her height and her classic response is always " Be grateful. I sacrificed for you!"

-3 generational shopping trips with Grandma Lofgreen, Mom and I

-When my leg was in a cast up to my thigh and my mom had to help me with even the simplest things. I will never forget how I never once heard her complain about having to take so much time off of work to take me to all of my classes, give up all of her lunch breaks to get me glasses of water or have to help me every night to take a bath.

- Her passion and dedication in helping her students succeed. I know I always give her a hard time about being a mean teacher but all of her students know, just as I do, that it's all out of love.

-Childhood summer day trips, vacations and activities. My friends would always wanted to come to my house because my mom always had fun things to do and see during the summer months.

-Her holiday spirit. She celebrates every holiday to it's fullest extent complete with decorations, themed meals and color coordinated attire.

Happy Birthday Mom. Thanks is far from enough for everything you have done for me, but it's the best I can do being here in DC. I hope this one is the best yet(especially because of the date)! I love you!

The Importance of Education

2009-09-08T09:54:00.000-07:00

President Obama gave a speech this morning that was broadcast to all schools in America. Of course, many educators, community members and parents have put up a fight saying it was "brainwashing", "socialism"," promoting a political agenda" etc. With every story I heard of people putting up a fight against the President's address, it would frustrate me to no end. It's not about being a Democrat or Republican, it's not about politics, it's about teaching our children to support our government and our President even if we don't necessarily agree with everything they promote. We, as Americans, have placed him a position to lead our country and with that we have agreed to listen. Through education, our children will be able to learn how to make those decisions, how to deduct who should lead this country and how to support that vote. Shouldn't we set an example? As I watched the address this morning, I was moved in every way at the simple message our President gave to the students of America. Stay in school, work hard and believe in yourself. Isn't that something we all can agree on?

Here are a few excerpts from his speech:

"And this isn’t just important for your own life and your own future. What you make of your education will decide nothing less than the future of this country. What you’re learning in school today will determine whether we as a nation can meet our greatest challenges in the future."

"Where you are right now doesn’t have to determine where you’ll end up. No one’s written your destiny for you. Here in America, you write your own destiny. You make your own future."

"Whatever you resolve to do, I want you to commit to it. I want you to really work at it."

"So I expect you to get serious this year. I expect you to put your best effort into everything you do. I expect great things from each of you. So don’t let us down – don’t let your family or your country or yourself down. Make us all proud. I know you can do it."

http://www.whitehouse.gov/MediaResources/PreparedSchoolRemarks/

Eat, Sleep, Wakeboard, Repeat

2009-09-08T08:07:00.000-07:00

This Labor Day weekend was spent celebrating Shannon’s 23rd birthday at her magnificent lake house. On Friday; Julie, Lisa and I made our way to the lake after a few detours ( aka getting lost) and a pit-stop at the Denny’s that was attached to a 7-11 (classy). We finally made it and surprised Shan with fun-fetti cupcakes, topped with blue frosting and complete with ridiculous pictures of Shannon glued to popsicle sticks. She was a little embarrassed about the pictures, but overall they were a hit.

We quickly fell asleep in our feather beds and woke up early to an epic sunrise over the lake. Nothing can capture how incredibly beautiful the sunrises are over Lake Anna. We threw our suits on and ran to the boat and were the first people on the water that morning. It was the most incredible glass I have ever encountered. Cutting out so hard you can see your face in the reflection and watch as the spray falls to the opposite side brought an irreversible smile to my face, and believe me, I am not the happiest morning person. You jealous yet?

We milked the entire day boating, swimming, laying in the sun, taking naps and eating enough food to double our weight.

Sunday morning we attended church at the Louisa Virginia Branch. It is held in the local high school auditorium and the locals have the quite the tales to tell during testimony meeting. Chickens, daughters sneaking in at 4 AM, dramatic 10 year-olds that run out in tears from the podium, requests for help moving again and mischievous boys being provoked by an irreverent father were all on the docket for an entirely entertaining sacrament meeting.

Sunday afternoon and night was spent sleeping, eating, watching movies, talking around the campfire and full-moon, late-night swims.

Monday we woke early to find the sky over-cast and wind that provided no sign of good water. We gave it a try anyway and found some great water on another part of the lake, after all of us took our turn wakeboarding and waved hello the cows taking a dip in the lake, we found that we couldn’t start the boat again. Uh oh. Turns out the gas gauge is broken in the boat and when it says half-full it really means empty. An extremely nice family helped us out, brought us gas and we were on our way 2 hours later than expected.

While the girls took one last run in the boat, I took a nap and enjoyed the solitude of nature and then we were on our way back to reality. We studied every possible option to make the weekend last longer and not leave that night, but were not able come up with one that paid us.

Thank you Crowley family for letting us use your incredible lake house again. It was a memorable and entirely relaxing weekend. Happy Birthday Shannon! I hope it was the best yet!

Back to School

2009-09-01T13:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Back to School time everyone! As much as I hated paying tuition,buying books, sitting through boring lectures,taking exams, writing papers on topics I didn't even care about and spending endless hours at the library; I find myself begging for the chance to be back there instead of here...

They're comin' to America!

2009-08-24T07:00:00.000-07:00

Great news!My wonderful friends Frederick (above) and Zach are coming to America next month! They are the directors of the Umbumwe Community Center in Rwanda where I spent much of my time volunteering. Everyone there treated me like family and gave me the warmest welcome every time I visited and I have missed them dearly. I have been keeping in touch with them and found out that two of them are coming to Ohio and California for a whole month! Since Ohio is only a few hours away, I plan on visiting them, as well as one my best friends Mallory whom I have not seen in FAR too long! I can't wait!

Boom-de-a-da

2009-08-21T07:21:00.000-07:00

Today I looked up pictures of good ol' Ogden Utah and I realized how much I took those beautiful mountains for granted and how much I miss them. I wish so badly that I could take only a 10 minute drive and be completely surrounded by the sweet smell of pine, feel the rough, rocky cliffs on my hands and lay amongst the wildflowers. Instead, I am in a busy city, with everything else to offer except nature. For now,a few walks in the park will do, but I can't wait to be greeted by these when I visit in November...

I miss the mountains
I miss the rolling hills,
I miss the fountains,
I miss the daffodils,
I miss the fireside,
When all the lights are low.
Boom-de-a-da
Boom-de-a-da :)

For those of you who are in Utah, give the mountains a kiss for me and be sure to take advantage of the incredible land mother nature created that's only minutes away.

Perspective

2009-08-17T07:58:00.000-07:00

“I would like to make something that is real in itself,that does not remind anyone of any other thing, and that does not have to be explained like the letter A, for instance."

“I no longer observed in the old way, and not only began to think subjectively but also to remember certain sensations purely through their form and color..." -Dove

This weekend I visited the Hirshhorn Gallery of Art for the first time and found myself connecting a painting called "City Moon" By Arthur Dove. It showed the the intense, hard lines of the city being overtaken by the light, soft colors and crooked half-smile of a full moon. So many times in my life have I seen that similar image in cities across the globe and every time it stops me in my tracks.

I researched Arthur Dove's other works and I love many of them. They give such a beautiful and intense perspective of the sun, water, moon and earth. No matter which angle you look at them, the subject of the painting overtakes you. I need to take that into my own life where no matter what angle I happen to be standing in, I can see the beauty of that moment.

So thank you Arthur Dove for creating such thought provoking and beautiful works of art.

Positive Reinforcement

2009-08-12T13:58:00.001-07:00

Today I received some positive feedback on a project I have been working on and I can’t describe to you how good it feels. Finally I feel like I am starting to understand what in the world is going on and I feel comfortable enough to “talk shop” with a few of my co-workers. ( Though I must admit that I’m not ready to talk to some people cause I know I would not be able to keep up with them) It’s amazing what a few words can do to boost your confidence.

Also, yesterday I was given a HUGE project that will take me until January to complete and the first deadline is in two weeks. I’m a bit nervous because basically I am going to be the go-to girl for the entire legislative campaign for 2010... well, as far as data is concerned. So lets hear it for my right-brained mind which is programmed for Humanities, English and Art type stuff to be crunchin’ numbers for the next 6 months. I really am excited for the finished product. I know it will be TONS of work but I know it will be fulfilling and very much a learning experience. If nothing else, it will look good on my resume. :)

So with as much as my dark little cubicle drives me crazy, as hard as it is for my brain to function after 8 hours on a computer and how ridiculously short my attention span is, I am starting to realize that what I am doing will have great rewards someday and pay off in the end.

Displacement

2009-08-04T12:56:00.001-07:00

Internal displacement is a topic that has moved me in many ways. Stories of pain, frustration and being caged like a wild animal echo around the world. There a few short films that have come to my attention recently and I would love for you to watch them to learn more about the reality and faces behind such a tragedy.

IRIN Film & TV | Asia West Africa | Cambodia Liberia Nigeria Nepal | GLOBAL: Forced to Flee - New series of short films on displacement | Human Rights Refugees/IDPs Urban Risk | Film

Family Night

2009-07-28T07:18:00.000-07:00

Last night Lisa and I decided to ditch the ward family home evening and have our own. Lisa gained inspiration for the bright idea from the fact that our apartment is still not “home” to us. We have some mis-matched furniture, in all random colors, a few decorations I brought home from Africa and way too many blank, bland walls.

Lisa ventured to the craft store and bought 12 frames in all shapes and sizes, then we both picked out our favorite pictures from our travels went down to the CVS and had them printed. At 10:00 PM is when we finally started putting the pictures in frames, organizing a cool pattern and then pounding nails into the walls. (I’m sure our neighbors loved that)

The final product is spectacular. It brings personality and class to our plain apartment. The big problem came after we were finished and were sitting, staring at the pictures. We couldn’t figure why it just didn’t fit exactly and we came to the conclusion that instead of the pictures not fitting with the décor of the apartment, it’s the apartment that doesn’t fit with the pictures. Our apartment was not classy enough for such a wall of grandeur. So then we started chatting about, painting the table black, buying a different couch, putting the futon in the sun-room, creating paintings to hang above the TV and couch, painting walls, getting new bedspreads…. The list goes on. As my mind was reeling with ideas that were much too big for my wallet, the words “If you give a mouse a cookie…” came to mind; I wonder why?

O' Pioneers!

2009-07-24T13:45:00.000-07:00

Happy 24th of JULY! Oh Pioneer Day; what a marvelous summer celebration! Parades, fireworks, dutch-oven cooking, car shows, demo derby, rodeos, getting to see Ms. Rodeo Utah all dolled up in sequins and huge hair and the only time of the year I can whip out my belt buckle without feeling stupid. I am sad to not be in Utah for such an event, but considering I have not been in Utah to celebrate for the past 3 years, I will just have to carry as usual with my own secret celebration wherever I am. I wanted to reflect on some of my past “Not-in-Utah-and-am surrounded-by-people-who-don’t-care” celebrations!

Catalina Boy Scout Camp: We celebrated by feeding the boys and extra special breakfast of pancakes instead of the usual Hash and told every one who came through line Happy 24th of July! Many of them were from California and thought we were crazy. Later that night we did a full-on reenactment of a rodeo, complete with barrel races with no horses and the crowning of a Ms. Rodeo Catalina.

Ecuador: The morning started out with good ol’ American breakfast of pancakes and syrup. I secretly listened to twangy, cheesy country music. After working, we went out to eat as American of a meal as we could find and topped it off with ice cream. (Though it was no where near as good as Farrs)Not much, but it's the best we could do with the limited resources we had.

TODAY: I am celebrating by going to Lake Anna and relaxing in Shannon’s lake house, wakeboarding all day tomorrow in perfect weather and roasting marshmallows over the fire... can't wait!

Have a wonderful 24th of July to all who are in or from Utah and have any clue about what I am talking about! Yeeeha!

Plans

2009-07-20T07:48:00.000-07:00

Growing up is tough. Especially when I become overwhelmed and nervous around words like contract, insurance, taxes, but the one that is hardest for me is commitment. I am committed to a job, apartment and city for an entire year, with only a regulated amount of vacation and sick days allowed. I have never felt so tied down, so stable. I don’t like this feeling of having my wings clipped, my freedom taken from me. I am a 9 to 5 robot.

Ok Ok I know this may seem a little over-dramatic and I need to be grateful for the opportunity at hand rather then the having a perspective of what feels like a lifetime. You also have to understand, that I have not been in the same place for longer then 4 months since the day I graduated high school, so this has been a completely life-changing experience.

In order to keep my sanity intact and to keep me from just up and running away from this new lifestyle, I need to make some exciting plans; both short and long term. I need to look forward to something. As one of my friends put it, this is will be my “base camp” year, where I will plan, save and prepare for an epic year to come.

Plan #1: Money- Find a part-time job that will allow me to actually save money instead of just barely scrape by on my fellowship stipend.

Plan #2: Brain-teaser- Get a hobby. Something that will allow me to escape for a little while so I don’t get bored and start looking up cheap flights to all of the places I wish I could be but can’t go because I don’t have enough vacation days.

Plan #3: Review- I found a ceramics class being offered at an art gallery near-by and once I save enough, I think I will sign up for a few of the classes. I have always loved ceramics and can’t wait to try my hand at it again.

Plan #4: Work on documenting and scrap-booking all of my previous trips and years of my life since I graduated high school.

Plan #5: Research-Start researching places I have always wanted to explore with fascinating culture and sights to behold. Try to find a job, internship or cheap way to travel those places during the summer once my “commitment” is over.

Places I will be considering:
South-East Asia
India
Indonesia
Australia/New Zealand
South Africa

Plan #6: Fly away- Explore and immerse myself into a new culture until my heart is content :)

Reality

2009-07-14T07:37:00.000-07:00

It has been 3 weeks since I have been home from Africa which have been filled with non-stop adventures and new, exciting journeys…

-Flew straight to D.C
-Started my new job the next day
-Moved into my wonderful new apartment
-Went shopping almost every night with Lisa (my roommate) for apartment supplies
-Bought a pet fish and named him Pez
-Went to conferences, seminars, webinars, lobby visits, hill drops….etc. for work
-Flew to Utah for the 4th of July weekend
- Flew in just in time to be a bridesmaid at my friends wedding reception
-Cleaned out all of my closets and drawers
- Packed my bags for a year of living in D.C.
-Visited wonderful friends that I have not seen in far too long
-Went to Huntsville, Liberty and Cherry Days for the 4th of July
-Took a 3-hour nap
-Went on a 3-generational shopping spree
- Showed off my Africa pics to my very kind family who tried to act excited after the 1,000th picture
-Watched the Ogden fireworks from the cemetery… best seat in the house. Kinda creepy though.
-Took a drive down memory lane
- Flew back to D.C.
- Was given my first real assignments and projects at work
- Finally finished my internship paper that was due 3-weeks ago
- Enjoyed a weekend filled with relaxation, friendship and memories
-Went on a tour of the Capitol building…. This was my 4th time in 6 months, I think I could give the tour now
-Have officially decided that growing up is expensive, stressful, at-times boring, but over all it’s an adventure
-Realized that having the attention span of a three year old is not good for a 9-5 job being stuck in a cubicle

Orphanage

2009-07-03T22:19:00.000-07:00

Friends

2009-07-03T22:05:00.001-07:00

Safari

2009-07-03T22:03:00.000-07:00

Ubumwe Community Center

2009-07-03T21:57:00.000-07:00

Teaching- Mubono 1

2009-07-03T21:52:00.000-07:00

Gisenyi Rwanda

2009-07-03T21:48:00.000-07:00

Uganda

2009-07-03T21:41:00.000-07:00

Fini

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

I stole this from a blog post written by Ashley Linford (I hope she doesn't mind) but it gives a fantastic overview of my last three weeks in Africa. She compiled a list that samples some of the experiences and accomplishments of the volunteers during the three weeks in which we participated in Ungana’s Masterminds programs:

Gave roughly 100 kids confidence in English conversation, Money Management, Health,
Music, Sports, and Art
Saw zoo animals in their natural habitat at Akagera National Park
Took a Road Tour of Gisenyi
Taught the same lesson 14 times in one day
Listened to the Von trap family singers sing Rwanda’s national anthem
Brainstormed, planned, and carried out 20 different lesson plans for 30 or 70 kids
Went to the beach during lunch
Played with street kids with a volcano in the background
Talked for an hour one night a week about personal love lives to complete strangers
Survived motorcycle taxi helmets
Got a sunburn at 5000 ft and 1 degree below the equator
Visited an orphanage with 670 children
Made banana leaf picture frames with local artists
Observed Rwandan education first-hand
Improved teaching resumes.
Spoke with local leaders
Slept with geckos
Gained bargaining skills in a goods market
Smelled methane
Adapted to a culture
Made new friends
Taught local athletes the ways of the Frisbee
Successfully managed 65 kids at one time in a 30 x 30 ft space
Waited 1.5 hours for food at a restaurant
Spent a cumulative one hour a week washing feet
Met Jack Hannah
Watched the complete third season of House
Demonstrated complicated activities to ESL kids
Over 10 days, put in 100 hours of work
Embraced the cold shower
Clubbed to Congolese Music
Fought mosquitoes
Learned Kinyarwandan, French, and ‘Jeff’ dialect
Spent three weeks in Africa’s most dense population

Made an impact

Pictures to come!

T.I.A.

2009-06-13T02:40:00.000-07:00

T.I.A. is an expression often used here standing for This Is Africa. It is used in moments when only such things could and would happen in Africa and no other descriptions will suffice. Here is a list of my favorite T.I.A. moments thus far.

#1- When the public water knows the perfect moment to shut off. I think I hold the record for the amount of times I have had the water shut off while being completely covered in soap.

#2- When I wake up because the misquito army swarming the net is so loud that it's impossible to sleep without ear plugs.

#3- When I am eating the EXACT same thing everyday, twice a day and all the cafes in town serve the same thing as well.

#4- When I am actually excited for a cold shower.

#5- When the locals call white people " Myzungus" and Asians " Jackie Chan"

#6- When basic road repairs entail women filling pots holes with lava rocks so full that they become speed bumps and don't seem to fix the problem.

#7- When I hear phrases such as " Hello, how are you? Give me your money!" from children running around with machetes in hand.

#8- When the entire city smells of marijuana after someone burns their trash.

#9- When men hold hands with other men and don't get accused of being gay.

#10- When the headmaster of the school you work with somehow neglects to tell you until the day before that there are national testing days being held during half of the time you are supposed to teach and classes will be canceled on those days.

#11-When the teachers prove their discipline by carrying sticks in their hands at all times

#12- When children who budge in the front of the line get punched instead of pushed.

#13- When my international debit card is not accepted anywhere in Rwanda so I have to have money wired to me the old fashioned way.

#14- When the malaria pills cause the most vivid, Disney-themed, dreams I have ever experienced.

#15-When the sight of geccos slithering along the walls inside the house does not even phase me.

#16-When you see a little boy with a neon green shirt on with screenprinted english stating " Get your big girl panties on and get over it." Thanks to generous donations from the Salvation Army and other various American organizations, we are able to find children and adults alike wearing statements that if they knew what it meant could cause extreme embarassment.

#17- When I am falling asleep looking through the lace curtain as it billows like a sail on a boat and discover new constelations in the black night sky that exaggerates even the smallest star.

#18- When new senses, emotions and ideas are discovered running through my mind and heart.

#19- When I meet new, inspiring people and learn from their stories, culture and character.

#20- When I am completely overwhelmed with emotion upon discovering the blessings that I take for granted that many of these people have never experienced or seen.

School

2009-06-07T06:58:00.000-07:00

We started school this week with some unexpected surprises. We weren't sure which school we were teaching until the day we started and we didn't know what age group either. We were assigned to local public to teach the children in level 4. What we didn't realize was that the school has around 2,000 kids and level 4 alone has 240 that come everyday.

So here we are, 5 young Americans who have had little to no experience in the classroom and we are given 240 African kids in one day that have no idea what we are saying. So we split the kids up into groups of 120 and they come in different shifts during the day. 120 kids is still a lot to handle. The first few classes were complete chaos. We tried to have the kids make name tags and were unaware that there would literally be fist-fights over colors of crayons. We also had a sports lesson that day and were blindsided when the other classes were let out early and soon we were swimming in a sea of around 1,000 kids. I have never seen anything like it. We were just standing there playing a game of tag with the students assigned to us and all of the sudden a whistle blew and all of the doors opened around us as a sea of African children engulfed us with chants of " Myzungu!" (white person!). It wasn't until the headmaster of the school showed up with his all-powerful wooden stick that the the sea was parted in record breaking time.

The next day we taught the children manners and english commands such as " Sit down please", "Raise your hand", and " Please wait" which seemed to help with some the issues encountered previously. However, there was still a lot of mayhem that will hopefully subside by the end of the three weeks.

My mom thinks this experience will help in making me want to be a teacher, however, I think this may have the opposite effect on me and give me my teaching fill for the rest of my life. Who knows...

Wish

2009-06-06T09:26:00.000-07:00

I dig my toes into the sand
The ocean looks like a thousand diamonds strewn
across a blue blanket
I lean against the wind, pretend that I am weightless
And in this moment I am happy

The world's a rollercoaster
And I am not strapped in
Maybe I should hold with care
But my hands are busy in the air

I wish you were here

Favorite Biggest Bro

2009-06-05T01:25:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my most favorite biggest brother Preston!

I am sad that I can't be there to join in the celebration but I will be partying in Africa for you!

P- Picking on me made me more tough
R- Rocking- you always had the best music
E- Easy to talk to
S- Spiritual- I have learned much from your testimony
T- Talented- its hard to find something you can't do
O- Organized- you always made Cam and I look bad :)
N- Nice

I love you bro! Hope this year is the best yet!

Week in review

2009-06-03T01:24:00.000-07:00

This past week has been filled with visits to a community center for people with disabilities, working on lesson plans for teaching art in a local school and visiting surrounding villages to survey their medical needs.

The weekend was spent relaxing on the shores of Lake Kivu, visiting Kigali and going on a safari through Akagera National Park. I was able to see wildlife in their natural element and exceeded my expectations. So amazing. I saw giraffs, zebras, water buffalos, hippos, impalas, baboons, monkeys, storks but sadly no elephants.

The rest of the volunteers came in yesterday and we start working in the school tomorrow. I am so excited to finally start!

Gisenyi

2009-06-01T04:20:00.000-07:00

As the sun ruses over Lake Kivu, the smell of dew covered Eucalyptus trees fills the air. The hand-terraced hills slowly become illuminated as people climb up the steep terrain to start work in their fields while others make the journey down with loads atop their heads to sell at the market.

The hours pass as the day goes on and the people of Gisenyi teach me how to work hard and play hard through example.

As the sun sets over the land of 1,000 hills, people make their journey back home and new set of stars appears in the heavens. While discovering constalations, the red glow of lava from a near-by volcano dominates the night sky.

The country is so breathtaking. Although, the physical beauty is unmatched, the people and their stories, their lives and their history has been moving beyond words and will stay in my heart always.

Did I mention?

2009-05-22T01:39:00.000-07:00

Oh and did I mention that ten minutes before taking off for Africa, I was offered a year-long fellowship with Bread for the World? They are holding the position for me until I get back and I can't wait to start. Looks like Washington D.C. will be my new home, as well as, the longest I have been committed to one place since I graduated high school... my mom is most excited about that part.

Treking

2009-05-21T06:18:00.000-07:00

From Kampala we decided to trek to what is known as the "Switzerland of Africa" Lake Bunyoni ( which happens to be one of the sources of the Nile). We went to the main bus terminal which was probably one of the most sketchy experiences I have had in my travels, then we took what should have been a 5 hour bus ride to Kabule but ended up being 10 hours. From there we grabbed a taxi to take us to the top of the mountains surrounding Kabule where the lake was.

Lake Bunyoni was incredible although I must say that whoever deemed it the Switzerland of Africa, must never have been to Switzerland. It looks more like what I would think Nepal would look like. Steep terraced farming, on green rolling hills, a giant lake and over 29 small islands. We explored different islands, went out to some villages that had never seen white people before, hiked to the Rwanda border, played on the rope swing, paddled some authentic dug-out canoes, checked out the local market, basked in the sun and made friends with the locals.

From Bunyoni we went to the border. Turns out you can't re-enter Uganda without paying for a multi-visit visa which will cost around 400 USD. I didn't want to travel solo to Rwanda so we negotiated and worked it out so that everyone could come with me. When we went through customs in Rwanda, they made us empty our bags and throw away any plastic bags. Plastic bags are not allowed in Rwanda, they only use paper or cloth for environmental reasons. Awesome! They also have one day a month where everyone is required to clean up the cities, so neeedless to say, it was a completely different world then Kenya and Uganda. The roads were paved and not dirt, the security is much more emminent, and it's so much more clean.

So after a long night of border crossing and trying to find a hotel without any Rwandan Francs ( money), we finally were able to sleep only to have to wake up early and hit the road again. I went on my way to Gisenyi while the rest of the group went back to Uganda. At least now they can say that they have been here right?

The ride to Gisenyi was incredible! The mountains, waterfalls, terraced hills, villages and people were so inspiring and I'm so excited to be here. Gisenyi itself is breathtaking and I can't wait to relax on the shores of Lake Kivu.

I have met the people I will be working with and can't wait to start! I will keep you updated!

Jambo!

2009-05-17T01:42:00.000-07:00

Jambo means hello in Swahili and everyone everywhere in Kenya says it when you pass them on the street.

First things first,
I flew to London on Virgin Atlantic (awesome airline) and had a 12 hour layover. I took my time and explored the city by buying a bus ticket and stopped by all of the major sights. London is a wonderful city.

I got back the airport in perfect time, we loaded the plane and thought we were ready to go. Not, they had a mechanical error so they kept us on board until they fixed it. So here we are, just sitting at the gate for over an hour when they tell us that it can't be fixed and that we will have to switch planes. As if that is not enough, they had to go back through and hand each passenger back his/her boarding pass which took another hour. By the time we de-planed, they switched gates, got all of the luggage switched it was 4 hours later.

Luckily when I arrived in Nairobi, my friends were patient enough to wait for me and then we took off. We explored the bustling city, grabbed some lunch ( they even had a veggie burger!) and then we went to the cultural center where we watched different dances of native tribes. So great.

We then hopped on the overnight bus to Kampala Uganda. After 17 hours, dirt roads, no shocks, humidity, no shower for 4 days and having to deal with customs, visas etc at 3:00 AM it was a relief to finally make it.

Kampala is GORGEOUS! I love it here and the people are so wonderful. I have yet to meet a person who was mean, or even somewhat rude. They have been so hospitable and kind. I think having a 2 year old with us helps a bit :) Well I am off to relax and read while overlooking Lake Victoria... Pure Bliss.

(pictures to come)

Finally!

2009-05-08T22:00:00.000-07:00

It's official...I'm gradeeeated! Now what?

For now: AFRICA!

Tejas

2009-05-08T21:46:00.000-07:00

I drove to Texas with my brother. After 2 days solid in a car and one day on land, we had quite the memories to recall.

Memories:
-RAIN.... the WHOLE drive
-Driving through 500 ghost towns on small state highways
- Experiencing prom night at the Chili's in Roswell New Mexico
-Checking into a motel at 2:00 AM and having the best sleep of my life
-good tunes
-Wal Mart in Brownsville
-not being able to find anti-bacterial anything due to Swine flu paranoia
-seeing my first wild toad
-going grocery shopping for Cams survival food... PB&J, Spaghetti and cereal.
-grilled cheese and tomato soup
- gender equality throw-downs with Cam's roomies
-experiencing 10000% humidity
-talking and hangin with my awesome bro

Pomp and Circumstance

2009-04-29T11:48:00.000-07:00

As I removed the packaging of my cap and gown, I felt completely inadequate. Questions raced through my mind.

Am I old enough to be doing this?
Did I put in enough effort?
Do I really deserve this?
Am I prepared to face reality?
What is next?

As I reflected back on the last few years spent at the University of Utah I remember living in my first apartment, away from home and taking my first semester of upper-division course work. I took 18 credit hours and needless to say, I was burnt out by the end. Therefore, I took a semester off and traveled. The next fall semester I had a broken leg and could not have made it through without the help of family and friends. I moved out again and I lived on Capitol Hill for spring and had one of the best semesters of my life. I was truly on my own and the moments spent during that semester were some of the best. I wonder how different my college career would have been had I made an effort to not only work hard, but have fun like I did during spring. The next fall was my last semester at the U and proved difficult mentally, physically and emotionally.

I grew in many different ways from each segment of my life. I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity I had to even gain a bachelors degree. Although I wish at times that life and careers were not based so harshly on status and degrees, but rather on experiences and individualism. I would have spent more time traveling, listening, meeting, experiencing, searching and being then I did frustrated, stressed, exhausted and emotional. I truly feel that I have gained more of an education through my travels, internships, humanitarian work and human interaction then I have through classes, studying and tests. I will credit schooling for many advances in my life as well. I am in no way belittling the importance of education, I just feel that I learn differently then others.

So here I am, diploma in hand and ready to finally gain the education I have been longing for... watch out world!

RESULTS!

2009-04-28T10:25:00.001-07:00

Now you finally get to see the faces behind all of the amazing work that is done at RESULTS. It was truly heartbreaking to leave. The people I worked with were so passionate, hard working and dedicated to incredible causes. I will always remember what I learned from them.

Grand Finale

2009-04-28T10:21:00.000-07:00

Easter

2009-04-27T18:41:00.000-07:00

The Big Read!

2009-04-21T10:51:00.000-07:00

Did you know that 1 in 4 women can't read this? I've decided to get involved in a campaign to help change this.

Take a look at the Global Campaign for Education's Big Read. They've got stories from Nelson Mandela, Alice Walker, Desmond Tutu and others. And it's designed to help make sure everyone has the chance to learn.

Check it out: www.campaignforeducation.org/bigread

Please read the book and share it with all of your friends, family and co-workers! The stories are an inspiration and signing your name on the petition will help in holding Obama to his promise of creating a Global Education Fund.

I just met Queen Ranya of Jordan and Congresswoman Nita Lowey during a press conference in support of the Big Read. However, the people who were most inspiring were the children that so bravely stood before a crowded room of cameras and tape recorders and told their stories of triumph over forced labor in developing countries. One girl was enslaved and a rock quarry until she was given the chance to gain an education. Her name is Develi and she is only 10 years old but one of the most powerful advocates for universal primary education. It's amazing to think that only 4 years ago, she didn't even know what fruit looked or tasted like, and now she is Washington D.C. speaking with Royalty, Heads of State and press from around the world. I was speechless and completely overwhelmed by the end of the press conference.

So go to their website, read the stories, be inspired and join in the fight for global education! You WILL make a difference.

Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world - Mandela

Viva la AFRICA!

2009-04-18T11:47:00.001-07:00

Forget a job...

I'm going to Africa!!

I will be traveling through Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo for two months and I AM SO EXCITED!!! I can't even contain my smiles.

I will be working, traveling, safari-ing and exploring such amazing countries that I have ALWAYS wanted to visit!

Oh and just found out that, that I have a job and place to live in DC for when I get back! It's amazing how things just fall into place...I love life!

T Minus 7

2009-04-16T06:46:00.000-07:00

7 Days left.

Have I found a job? Nope

Have I done everything I ever wanted to do in this city? Pretty much, except for spend quality time in the National Gallery, which I will get to this weekend.

Am I ready to go back to Utah? If it's warm, yes. Other than that, No.

Do I have any summer plans? Many, but I can't figure out which ones to do.

Do I have money to fund these summer plans? Nope

What is the first plan on the list? Take a roady with my brother to the Mexico/Texas border...random...Better brush up on my spanglish!

Am I graduating on May 8th? YES! FINALLY!

Have I sent out my announcements like a responsible graduate should? Nope

Am I instead wasting my time planning an epic "senior sluff" day? Sure am! (I don't care if that's a high school tradition)

So basically, I'm graduating. Jobless. And moving back in with my parents. Ridiculous, I know. Maybe some miracle will happen these next seven days!Wish me luck!

My Birthday Brotha!

2009-04-14T08:16:00.000-07:00

Another year has passed and the list of unforgettable memories made with my brother Cameron grows longer each day. Since I am far from home and have little resources to teleport myself back to Utah for a day, I won’t be able to celebrate with him. However, to make up for it, I have made a list of reasons why Cameron is such a great brother…
Cameron:
- taught me how to be a “cool girl” that all guys would want supposedly
- drove me to school everyday and didn’t avoid me in the hallway
- took my girl friends and I boating all the time
- went backpacking with me through Europe
- took me on a sibling date to Betos so we could people watch
- stuck with me through my “ bratty little sister” stage
- taught me all the tricks to becoming a teachers favorite student
- shared his favorite basketball shorts with me when I had a broken leg
- is my right-hand man in the “ Lets see how easily we can peg mom’s ‘fun meter’"game
- let me hang out with his friends and come with them on weekend trips
- taught me how to carve on a longboard and helped me up after I sprained my ankle doing so
- taught me how to relax and take life as it comes
- is genuine and kind
- makes me laugh
- comes home late at night and will talk with me to until the early morning hours about anything and everything
- calls me for no reason
- listens to me when I need a listening ear
- brings the most comfort then any other person by always being there for me
- is the greatest example of spirituality, devotion and faith in my life
- is my best friend

So here is to you, Cameron, on your big day. Thank you for your laughter, enthusiasm, dedication and most importantly, your friendship. I don’t know where I would be without you. You have helped me to grow in every aspect of my life and you have lead me to be who I am today. This is only the beginning… Happy Birthday! I love you bro!

Icing on the cake

2009-04-07T12:09:00.000-07:00

The past three months of living in D.C. have been a whirlwind of emotions, experiences, triumphs and trials. Through a collection of these vast experiences I have grown in every aspect of my life. Because of this semester I have been able to make some of the best friends I know, gain immense work experience and let my passions guide me.

One of the best friends I have made is Shannon Crowley. She has been my saving grace throughout the trials I have endured these past few months. She has provided physical escape by letting us use her heavenly lake house and emotional escape when I was in need of a listening ear. Shannon and her family opened their homes and hearts to us and for that I am profoundly humbled and grateful.

This weekend was the highlight of my DC experience; the “icing on the cake” if you will. It was a much needed escape to nature, away from the hustle of city life.

Friday: After a long day of work and seminars, with the sun shining brightly I practically ran home with excitement. Becky, Laurie, Julie and I loaded the back of Shannon’s car and we were off to the serenity of Lake Anna! Good music, dance parties, Chipotle and grocery shopping took place en route and finally we arrived. The welcoming sight of the lake house as the moon reflected on the mirrored lake could not have come at a better time. We watched a movie and flopped ourselves onto the soft pillow top mattresses for a restful slumber.

Saturday: Waking up to the scent of homemade Belgium waffles added to the excitement as I hurried and changed straight into my swimming suit… I was going wakeboarding and I was going to be ready at any moments notice. Laurie told me this was the happiest she had ever seen me in the morning. ( Note: in case you didn’t know, I am NOT a morning person) We had a delightful breakfast of waffles and fruit, after which we watched the first session of general conference. After that Shannon and Becky made homemade pizza for lunch and then we were off for a cruise on the boat!

Sitting in the open bow, the wind blowing through my hair, natural beauty surrounding me and friends laughter serenading the journey… nothing could tear me down from that moment. We took a short cruise around the lake but had to be back shortly thereafter for the next session of conference. During this session we each made Easter baskets out of balloons, string and sugar water which turned out absolutely adorable.

After the next session, Becky, Laurie and Julie wanted to go running while Shannon and I wanted to go boating. We went our separate ways. Shannon knew exactly where to take me for the perfect run on perfect glass. The sun was setting on the horizon as it reflected on the silently still water. My first run of the wakeboarding season was epic. I drove the boat after as Shannon had her moment of bliss wakeboarding. We both were like kids on Christmas day after and even though we were freezing, the smiles never left our faces.

We pulled up to the dock just as dark set in and we quickly built a fire for our “hobo dinners” and s’mores. As we sat around the fire, we reflected on our favorite memories and watched as our hardships and trials burned to ash in the wildfire of our lives.

Sunday: Ableskeevers filled with dulce de leche was my morning greeting. We watched general conference and cleaned up the house a bit. Between sessions we took our last boat ride around the lake and had a thrilling time. We listened to one last session of conference and after some cleaning and washing we were on our way back to the hurried city. It was so hard for me to leave. Lake Anna truly is a sanctuary for the soul and has provided countless memories that will stay in my mind and heart forever.