So much has changed.

I'm right now thinking of in the past year, but also since my last post. For one it's not October or anywhere close to November anymore.

It's December!

Okay, back up. November for me was pretty much a headache. I worked two jobs just about everyday. I was searching for a car forever then right before thanksgiving I found one but my loan didn't go through. So my parents felt like they needed to help me. Dad found a place that'd could put a new transmission in the '97 Buick, and we put new tires on

it, with help from a family friend. Thanksgiving was a good one. Pretty sad though, since it was the first Thanksgiving without Grandpa physically being with us, and you could tell everyone was missing him there. The Grandchildren that were there(and going to be there for Christmas)

all drew names for Secret Santa and they all went to the dollar store and picked something out for their person. I wasn't there(either in Utah or working) soo I've got to get my person something soon.

The first week in December was my quitting week my last day at Martiz was the first, and then my last day at Mcdonald's was the second. Welll... Thursday morning the second my check Sarah for lice. She had it. Yuck. Mom checked me too, I had it as well. Even worse! So I had to call in "sick" but I just plain told my manager what was up. We got all the lice medicine washed everything, and sprayed it too. They're gone (pretty sure for everyone) and for me they are completely gone. YES! Thank Goodness. Right? That was a hassle. Then the car was supposed to be done Saturday the fourth, but it kept on getting pushed back. Which was pretty stressful, but it worked out. I got to see one of my friends, Jordan who moved away for a couple years and

came back here and is working now.She has her own apartment and we went over and made pretzels dipped in white chocolate, talked, a lot, and tried to watch a movie, but for me and Kadi it was just too weird on the HD Tv. It was a great time.

The next day I spent packing and packing, and Laundry. Yuck. Then Wednesday the 8th my car was around 10 or 11, so Dad and I picked it up in Edina, and then on the way back I ran over to the Clarksons to say bye (for a week) and picking up a couple things. After that I went over to Hunter's Tires in Kirksville and put new tires on my Buick. YAY! After that I headed home and got everything packed into the car, which took forever. Then when I was getting ready to move my car I locked my keys in the trunk, and the only way

to get into the trunk is with the button on the key ring that pops it open or with the key. (which both were locked in the trunk) that was soo stressful and Dad was at

Uncle Thomas' funeral in Laplata. Well turns out Mom went to the store to return some stuff for me, and pick up conditioner, and I stayed back to get everything organized. Then Dad called back and told me where the spare keys were. whew! Got most of my stuff in my car, then I headed over to AT&T to pick up a car charger for my phone. Definitely needed. I also filled up on gas. Got home finished everything, got a blessing from Dad, and waited for Sarah to get home, because she'd be the one to be upset at not being able to say bye to me. After that I headed off. I went over to Maryville first, and I got to catch up with Ian and just spend some time with him, which was good. Too bad I was so crammed on time and everything that I didn't get to see anyone else :/ Then I took a mini nap at Ian's place and headed out about 3am. (I think)

I had the hardest time around 5-6 in the morning, which is when I pulled over in a Hyvee parking lot and took about a 30min nap...maybe? the most then I got something to eat, some caffeine and headed out again. From there I was good. I saw mountains for the first time in my life! They were sooo beautiful! But by the time I go to Rawlings, WY I just felt gross, no shower, my hands were sweaty, my face was greasing, everything. So I stopped atMcDonald's and I washed my face, changed clothes, and put some fresh make-up on. I felt much better after. I also go something to eat while there. It's hard to think drove to Utah by myself. crazy actually. It really is such a long drive. After that I don't think I stopped until I got to Provo, which was awesome I'd shed around 30-45mins off the actual time I was supposed to be there according to my GPS. Then I automatically met up with Courtney. We went and saw a Humor U, Divine Comedy, and Laugh out Loud groups. It was a fundraiser. I went with Courtney her friend Carly, her roommate Hannah, and Hannah was also with some other people. It was good! After we went back to Courtney's apartment, and then we decided we were hungry. So we drove around Provo/Orem area, and decided IHOP would be a good place. Which it was amazing! WE both really enjoyed it. It was yummy! We then quickly had to got back to the apartment so Courtney could pay rent. Then we drove over to the Provo temple and took some pictures. Afterwards we went back to her apartment and had a mini sleepover on her couches. We had to get up at a decent hour though, that way I could move in and head off to my orientation.

Well I went to check in and no one was in the

office so I took Courtney to work and

the I headed over to UVU for orientation. Which was pretty pointless for me, since I'd already done the college thing before, but I did get to get a tour of the campus, I got my I.D. and also a parking ticket. College is sooooo much money. ugh. After I went back to my apartment complex and moved everything in. Courtney came over and helped too! Which was nice. After I went over to Ashley's and we watched Meet Me in St. Louis. Loved it! Danielle and Courtney were there of course too! They're all in the same Ward. After the movie we talked of course and ate Snowballs, which is Ice cream rolled in cake. It was very yummy! They all had a a sleepover under the Christmas Tree in Ashely's apartment, but I thought it'd be a good idea for me to go back to my actual apartment. So I did. Which worked out great. Most of my stuff had been put away but Victoria (my roommate was still up) so I worked on putting away and hanging up all my clothes and we talked while I did this. It was a good way for me to get to know her more. I don't think we ended up going to bed until around 1am. ha. But we definitely slept in the next day. Courtney and I went shopping when we finally got up and going. It was fun, we found some great deals in the mall and grocery shopping too! That was a long day! Afterwards we ordered Pizza form Blackjack because they got a coupon a Large one-topping pizza for $5. It was awesome! We ordered that and some Cheese bread it was really good! We also watch a Tyler Perry movie, which is a movie from Georgia that Hannah has a mini collection of. It was a good movie! Danielle and Ashely also joined us for the movie and food. Ha (Courtney's other roommate) also joined us about, maybe half way through the movie. After the movie everyone was joking around and putting on the heels I bought. It was fun. Then we had this random idea that the roommates Hannah, Ha, and Courtney should all dress Asian for church the next day. And well they did, except Ha. Which is all good because she came to church I wore one of Hannah's oriental shirts and so did Courtney. I picked Hannah and Ha up for church the next day and it was their Christmas program. Which was really good, but for some odd reason all over us were pretty tired. Ashely, taught the lesson in Sunday School and did a good job with that! We all went to Relief Society, and after I took everyone home. And when I was dropping them off the passengers door of my car wouldn't open, and then a piece of the siding popped off, and then the door wouldn't open at all anymore. eek. It was because of my fender bender I had in Kirksville on my way out. oops. Then I went back to my apartment and took a good nap I was pretty dang tired. After I found spots for my dishes and cooked some food. The only things that don't really have a spot are my pots and pans. They'd just be left on the counter. So That'll take some time. After awhile I went over to Courntey's Ward Prayer that was cool! And after they had an Art Show. Then we ran around a was giving people their Saran Wrap body parts they made for FHE one time. It was quiet funny! After all that I went back and talked with Victoria for awhile then went to bed. Monday I caught up on sleep and went job hunting. Turns out all the McDonald's out there you just apply online. Pretty annoying but at least I got to figure out what I need to do for my financial aid to completely go through, and got to know the campus a bit better than the one tour I had. That Monday was just a lazy day. The next day was too! But I did remember Rick's birthday was coming so I went and got him a little something. Cake, Icing, candles, confetti, oh and a scarf. Just a little something. That night I helped Courtney study a little and we were looking at the weather for driving back. Then around 1am we looked for the waterless Shampoo online and turns out they had some at Walgreens around the corner. Then I dropped Courtney off and went back to my apartment to sleep. The next day Wednesday seemed to go on forever! I got up showered gathered everything up I needed to take home for Break. Then I mailed my package, and I got to hang out with Kyoo! Which was awesome! He grew up in the Nauvoo Stake with me and gone on his mission and came back. It was just great catching up with him! I really enjoyed it! After I picked up Courtney on Campus and we talked with Kyoo and before we let him out. haha. It was good. After that we went back to Courtney's and packed, took a nap, and cleaned. Then when Courtney took a shower I went back to my apartment to grab a few things I didn't get in my car earlier. Came back and loaded everything in the car. We were semi-watching a movie before it. And we got on the Road by 1:30am. Crazy. There was some Black Ice in the Mountains of Wyoming. but that was the worst of it. We pulled over in Little America for a nap 30-45mins and then got on the road again. It was soooo cold! But when we got on the road again there wasn't nearly as much black ice. Thank Goodness! We switched drivers every so often. But the drive wasn't too bad. We stopped in Rawling for Breakfast at McDonald's but they didn't have any Biscuits and Gravy!!! :O Boo! ha. Oh well then we got on the road and traveled for quiet awhile. We went through Lincoln, NE. and there was a little detour and we/GPS got a little mixed up, which was pretty stressful. But we got out of it, and kept on going. Right after we got into Missouri Courtney got a bit tired. Which is about when Wendy said Prayer for their family dinner and asked that Courtney and I would drive safely, or somewhere along those lines, but she had NO idea we were on our way. In Cameron we got gas, and switched drivers. I then drove all the way to Laplata, and we switched again so Courtney could drive on E. We made it to the Clarkson's safely and we tried soooo hard to hide from Kadi. But she was being a good sister and parking the car in the garage and saw my car. :( Boo! hahah. But it was worth the shot. Now on the other hand when we finally got to bed we did surprise Wendy, and Andy. Courtney tired crawling in bed with Wendy but she woke up. lol. And in the morning Wendy came and jumped on me and asked me how the trip was. I was totally confused because I thought Wendy was Courtney hahaha. It was funny. Then I crawled into Wendy's bed with Courtney and slept for another hour. We later got up and played a little with the kids Maddie, and Caleb. Then Holly made us Dinosaur and Heart Pancakes. Yummy! Then I got ready for the day and talked with Kadi we she was cutting up deer meat for Jerky. She makes really good Jerky. That was about Lunch time, and then I headed off for Kirksville picked up my paycheck dropped some stuff off at home, and then went over to the school and watched Sarah's Christmas play. It was cute. Then we went home and unpacked and i brushed and braided Sarah's hair.

Then I drove back over to the Clarkson's after picking up Matthew. I helped make food for Kadi Surprise going away party. Which was tons of fun! We really couldn't surprise her though because there was no where to put everyone's cars. But She was confused. ha. We all had a good time. Sarah had been sick lately and was having a hard time so Dad had to end up coming and getting her. I got home around midnight and went to bed. But I found my housing check went through too soon. So i've got to call and talk to them about that. Sighh. But on the Bright side I have an actual Job in Provo at a McDonald's!! When I get back they're going to train me on Grill. That'll be different but at least everything is set in stone now. whew!

But the main reason for the title is that in the past year seriously everything has changed. BUt today, really reminds me of how much. Since it's Rick's Birthday today. (and his Mother's too!) I mean a year ago, Rick and I just barely were dating, quietly, I was at Northwest, in Maryville. And I couldn't wait to get home for Christmas. Well now, I've driven across country twice in one week. Still, dating Rick (thank goodness, but he's mostly known as Elder Jensen now), I've seen mountains "Home" is in Utah. My room in Kirksville, is being transformed to JUST Sarah's room. I go to school out in Utah. I have a car, that's mine! I've had two jobs! And one's all set up for when I go back to Utah, there's just sooo many changes in the past year. It's crazy!

Well That's all for today I need to shower and stuff for the day. Woo.

Ahhhh I'm Slacking on my blog!

A lot has happened....since Halloween. And I officially live in Utah! :) :) :) :) :)

I'll have to blog on monday after checking in for a McDonald's job. Everyone will be studying or taking finals, so I'll have some time.

:)

Warning: Lots of Pictures Posted; Halloween!

Wow! I love October/Fall. Mainly just how you can literally feel the seasons changing. Now I hate the cold.

Mom and I dug out this cute M&M costume she made for Jeremy forever ago. When he was 2! This is what Luke was supposed to be for Halloween but never really dressed up.

Danielle came home for a visit and we hung out a bit after I was done working. We looked at the walmart costume and she put a couple of masks on. She also decided to buy a fish! Topher is his name. (I think he's still alive) Then we just hung out at her house messing around. ha. we found random things to wear and were talking to people on Skype! Oh and Got Topher all settled in his new home! :)

The next night we were going to try for fall pictures but really failed. Got there too late and my batteries died. oh well.
Then on the 23rd. It was ZOMBIE PROM. haha. It was just a Halloween themed Dance in Iowa City. I didn't go as a Zombie though I went as Kirby! We learned the thriller and just danced the night away! It was awesome! Damion and Preston (below) dressed up as Fat/huge Siamese twins. Wow. That was GREAT!
One Huge pair of pants a couple of shirt and jacket, plus lots of stuff. There that's all it took. well, and some ingenious thinking. They were like that ALL night we were there. I helped a lot. Everything kept falling out and what not. But on the bright side they got Zombie King!
So something fun I noticed is that people who grew together at youth dances and such have a thing for staying together as we all get older. Here at Zombie Prom I hung out with Damion, Preston, Tiffany Zach, Brett, Heaven and Carol. All of them being from the Nauvoo Stake. Love it!

Later on, (the next weekend, 29th) I went over to Kansas City for the YSA dance there. No one really came with me though. I picked up my friend Madison who goes to school in Maryville, and she met me in St. Joe. Which was crazy. Surprisingly I found my way around it, and she got a little lost. Met up with her grabbed dinner, from Taco Bell, and headed off for KC.

WOW! Can I just say I HATE HATE HATE KC traffic. Ugh! I am so not meant for the big city haah. I did well though, for a small town girl. We made it safely, after jumping the gun and taking a turn into Edwardsville, KS. haha. We were looking for Woodland. and Turned on Woodend. There is a difference a big difference! lol But we got there! and alive! Yipppeee! Got all dressed up, I was a painter/work in progress person and she really didn't know what she was. lol I told her she should be a Mormon for the night hahah

Now, this dance was awesome! Everyone was dressed up and ready to have a good time! I hopped in the dance group I met at the YSA conference, and Madison joined me. And soon enough, a swing song came on, and Josh grabbed me and led the way.

So Josh and I literally have an awesome Candlestick. When it gets all the way vertical. Which sadly didn't really happen this time, I think my clothes were a bit slippery.
Josh and I tried something new, for us too! We did the Pop up (to shoulders) then He pops me to his arms and I do a somersault/flip out and land on my feet. We did it pretty well when I flipped out I landed on my feet hard. and Got some bruises from them. Not a huge deal. just kinda fun to tell how I got this battle scar. haha Someone saw all the aerial type of stuff I was doing with Josh, and told me I was really brave/gutsy for doing it. Which never had occurred to me, and made me really happy. Especially with how afraid of heights I am.
Hyrum here makes me looks like a midget. I don't even know how tall he is, but he decided at the end of the dance to draw a goatee on my. haha. it was nice. I decided to wash it off though. :) But I totally wrote on him a couple times so It's pretty legit.

Bruise on my left foot, right in the middle of my sole. lol

Bruises on my Right foot.

But all in all the KC dance was definitely my favorite of the two. I got to swing dance, and I just guess I had more fun at this one for some odd reason! :) Plus Madison even enjoyed it! which made it even better than if she had hated it.

We left around midnight and I got Madison back to her car around 1am...maybe... and she took a couple wrong turns and got a little lost. Luckily though she did make it back to Maryville safe and sound. My drive was a bit longer. I think I made it home around 4:30am, and slept 'til noon. that was nice. Then I got up go dressed (as Kirby) and went to the store with Mom and the Kids. I help pick out accessories for Sarah's outfit and stuff. That was good, then we all got ready, and I took a nap. Then went to the Trunk-Or-Treat Halloween/Fall Festival at the church which was good! The YSA had our own little corner where there was a spider toss and a mummy wrap hahaa fun stuff! I even ended up convincing Brandon to let me wrap him up

Bryan was a cowboy, and I drew a 'stache on him. Matthew was Paul Bunyan. His big blue ox, was left at home because it was allowed at the church. haha. Oh and Dad was the 18th Minor they pulled out in Chilie. (right?) Sarah was Cinderella, and Mom was The Original Krabby Pattie.

There's really not been much going on right now. I've been working and that's about it. I need to pay more my deposit, buy a car, save money, work on finding a job out in Utah, buy a camera, and find out what's up with my school! I know nothing about signing up for classes or transfer stuff, or anything. But on the Bright side I did get my FASA completed. :)

Oh I also now have Skype! and my webcam should come in a couple of days. Dear family and friends add me! ---->>> sunshine.ward22

Confusion.

I feel like I should clear somethings up.
I may have starting dating a bit because I have/need to, but I also go on these dates because I like the person. (I said person, because there was another date over the summer with my friend Marty) I knew that I was going to be attracted to other guys when the Elder was away. I'm not oblivious.
That said, I'm also not oblivious to what could happen either. Being a missionary's girl is harder than you think. I know all the endings of this story, some being harder than others.

yeahh.. That's it.
Loving is never a waste of time.
~Astrid Alauda

WOW It's October!

Have I ever mentioned I LOVE FALL!?!??

Well, I do. Especially in towns like Kirksville, because everything evolves around Homecoming(s), arts and crafts festivals, football games, and little festivals like the corn, soybean, grape, etc. Not to mention the weather, and how the leaves are changing, and Halloweeen!! beautiful. I must admit though it's a bit too cold for my taste.

So much has gone in the past month/ 3weeks I just don't know what to say. Heck or even how to say it with out offending people.

Okay, here goes nothing.....

Remember that guy from YSA Conference I was swinging with? (Josh) Well I totally went on a date with him. yes. I know a date. (No worries though he totally knows all about Rick/Elder Jensen) You have no idea how hard it was to actually say that. But one of the main reasons I'm dating again is because dating is one of those things I have to do. Especially now, locking me up in my room for two years wouldn't not work out. Dating now is one of things I have to do to be able to grow. One of my leaders my last year of Girl's camp told me: "You need to date while he's gone that way you know all the different type of men that are out there, so that you will really love and appreciate your eternal companion." But please don't get me wrong here, I love Rick Jensen with all my heart, and I have no plan on leaving him at all, I'm not. Just while on this tender subject of mine, I also changed my facebook relationship status so that only I can see it. There had been a lot of criticism from some people about that, and really has nothing to do with Josh. I just feel like if you really need to know I'll tell you or you already know, and that's that. I feel like I'm defending myself, but I know critics will come and not agree with my choices. Plus I am myself's worst critic.

Whew... now I can honestly go about telling you of my last few weeks. That date, was a good simple one, we went to the Nelson Adkins Museum, which was awesome, visited Liz at work (Olive Garden, YUM) made sure she was our waitress (it was also my first time there), played some laser tag, and went to a bookstore. 'Twas an overall good date. Then I had a mini sleepover with Liz. Which was WONDERFUL! I mean I hadn't seen her since she left Northwest, and we just talked and talked and caught up with each other, which was awesome! Liz definitely is like my sister. She's having some health problems and I hope the stupid doctors find something and soon.

Since then I've worked and worked and worked. I have a full time job at McDonald's and a part time job at Martiz. I've worked like crazy these last few weeks. Got a warning about always coming in late to martiz. (got that fixed). I must say though I really like working at McDonald's I don't know if it's how the system is set up or the people. I just like it though. But me on fries is bad... I just can't keep up. I'm good at Back booth, and front counter, and okay at running, and I can do alright for present, as long as it doesn't get busy. But hey, I'm just getting a hang of things.

I've also been trying to find a car. Oh My Goodness!!!! That's soooo freakin' hard. I really need one for when I go out to Utah, One it'd give me more motivation to get a job there, and instead of having to rely on public transportation, I could take care of it myself. No worries about missing the bus or anything. But my Dad is pretty picky about the engine, actually really picky, I understand though, it just makes it harder. OHHHHH Speaking of Utah stuff. I GOT AN APARTMENT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I need to send back the transfer contract though, and also pay first and lasts months rent. But IT'S MINE! AND it's in RAINTREE!!! what a blessing! I mean I was really looking into that place, because there are a good amount of UVU students there, Courtney's apartment complex is catty-corner from mine. My bank is down the street and hopefully I can just transfer the McDonald's I work at, because there's one right down the street too! PERFECT!

A couple weeks ago Kelli and I went and walked around the Red Barn festival. It's grown but there wasn't really anything that caught my eye there. (except for the HUGE flowers you stick on little baby girl's head)

Now, last weekend I got to visit Danielle, at college! Thanks to Josh, he came and got me (right after work), and took me on another date. The first thing we did when we got to CoMo was see Danielle. And she wanted some just Heather time, and she got a bit too, Josh went and did some of his own things. Danielle and I walked around MU. Sad to say, but I still get lost on that campus. haha. We walked downtown to Yogo Luv. Mmmm. It's a frozen yogurt bar. It was SUPER GOOD! walked back to campus, went into the Emporium (i think) which is like a C-Store or a mini convenient store for college kids. Turns out we ran into a bunch of Danielle's friends there. After that Josh rejoined us, and we all hung out in one of the lounges of the dorms. Haha. Man that was great, it was just entertaining. Then everyone disappeared, and it was Danielle, Me, Josh, Jake, and Jacob. Then Danielle and I decided we should do some stunting, yes with the boys. MAN! it was AWESOME!

Look!

Get Ready.

Up to Prep. Danielle's flying. I'm Back. Josh and Jake are bases, and Jacob was the photographer.

EXTENSION! YEAH! They even Cradled down. Scary. But Danielle did land on me a few times, and I did give her a bruise. P.s. It's 2am, and they'd only been doing this for like an hour. Talk about B.A.M.F.

Wow. That was a long but good night! Josh has this thing were he tries to figure out what I'm thinking and it never works, but it's fun to watch him guess lol.

This week I worked, had Tuesday and today off. Tuesday I put away most of my clothes, because Mom attempted to partially clean the room. It's better now, but I'm missing things. >:(

I also was able to curl my hair, and dress myself. Instead of wearing the McDonald's Uniform I wear just about everyday. Oh and I looked cute! and I really wanted a fall themed picture. So I made my mom take a couple :)

My Baby.

I am REALLY excited for Halloween this year. There's the Iowa City dance the 23rd. And I'm either going to go as Kirby, a work in progress, a masquerade lady, football player, Minnie Mouse, Okay I just have LOTS of Ideas. There's also another dance in KC area the 29th. Kirby fer sure there, and Dear brother Ian better be there! Then of course activities at the church the 30th, and after that there's a Midnight Massacre dance at the arts center. I'm hoping that's going to be as awesome as it sounds. I LOVE OCTOBER! <3

Sad Note: There have been soooooo many people within my 6 degrees of separation who have moved on to the next life and some of them have been a good handful of suicides. sad right?

Well here's some cute pictures of Luke I've took. He's getting such a funny personality.

Cutie.

Okay, I have to say this. THANK YOU STEPHEN KRUSE I FREAKIN' LOVE YOU!

He's awesome, and wonderful for talking to, for Anything.

Elder Jensen.

So I said I'd do a 6 month update. It's been six and a half months since he left. Wow. I'm a slacker, kinda. The real reason it's been taking me so long is because I was waiting for another letter. But hey, Missionary life is busy.

Now where to start, what to say, how to write it out... dang. That's hard

It was a big transition, as for all missionaries. He did well and picked up on the Spanish language pretty fast too. It's fun getting a letter all scribble out, because he forgot the english word for something. lol Fun story, he would sing songs on the way to class in the MTC, and people starting calling him the pop singer. While at the MTC he ended up going to the doctor because his ankle had been hurting a bit, turns out he had a fracture that healed wrong and had to wear a brace for a bit, and also went to some physical therapy. As far as I know it's doing much better now.

End of May, June-ish he was sent out to the field. Something I think is really cool is that he said it's exactly like being in a different country, even though he's just a days drive away. Elder said, the days go by a lot faster now than the MTC. The Elders do a lot of biking, teaching, and get to go to the Temple EVERY week! How amazing! They've taught many people (as I know I've already said) and even baptized a family.

So, I feel like I'm rambling, a lot. But long story short, Elder Jensen is doing good, and enjoying the work. I wish I could write more because there is so much more, but they're not my experiences to share. So enjoy! :)

Shout for Joy!

Whew! I've been crazy been these last couple of weeks or so. Danielle came for a visit, so after work one Friday night we went to a high school football game. Woo! Tigers Lost of course. The next evening we went bowling, (with Kelli) and took my little sister Sarah for the first time. That was entertaining. She was a pain, and was dancing like a stripper. After we picked up my brothers, put everyone in bed, took Kelli home, my parents came home. Danielle and I went and hung out at our friend's house for awhile. That was fun.

I got hired at Mcdonald's awhile back and finishing up training, I don't know much about being the runner, or anything with grill. So I'm not working very many hours right now. So hopefully everything will get worked out and I'll be working A. LOT.

I read this WONDERFUL book called The Message by Lance Richarson. YOU SHOULD READ IT. It's about him going into a coma, and going to and from the next world. Even if you are not LDS this book is GREAT, humor me and read it. K? It's wonderful, and really makes you look at your perspective. Definitely My favorite book, and the best is, it's a true story.

I found a car, in Edina, that I really need to go look at before it gets sold. It's getting to the point where I need a car, I'm busy, and I really would love to take some trips, on weekends.

OH! I've found an apartment contract to buy up in RAINTREE!!!!! :) :) :) :) Exactly where I wanted, but I have no idea if she's going to try to get anyone to move in for the rest of fall. But she said if I want it, It's all mine! YAY!!!! :D I'm sooooo glad everything is FINALLY starting to fall into place.


Here are some pictures I've edited. The wishing/water fountain one is from, 4 years ago, and then the one where I'm by the lake is only about a year old.

Now, time for the YSA conference. well.... to make it easy. IT. WAS. AWESOME.

Why? I'm guessing you want an explanation. (besides everything)

I rode up to Nauvoo, with Kadi, and Derryn which was a good ride, we talked a bit, and Bo followed us to Nauvoo. (had I been thinking a little more I would've suggested(to Kadi) that someone ride with Bo) We got there checked in, name tags and all, signed up for the temple, and Derryn and Bo put there stuff in one of the cabins (Kadi, Chantae and I were in the Hotel). Checked in the hotel, got the card keys, and went to the fudge factory! (OF COURSE!)

Went back to Camp Nauvoo, and we tossed around the football for a bit. Then they decided to play 500, and I really didn't want to be caught in that mess (plus I suck at throwing the football) so I went to play volleyball, which is much more my sport. After we were all done playing sports around 7:15ish, we went over to Adventure Zone for the first dance. And WOW were my feet black. I think I spent the first 10mins in the bathroom cleaning my feet. The first dance was alright. I got to meet a whole bunch of new people, and thank goodness for Jennica! I literally grew up with her, in the Stake, and she was there we found each other and decided we were going to be dancing buddies! Yay! It was great just to have her there as a good friend to hang out with. Yes, there actually were quite a few other people from the Stake that I grew up with and that was just great! During one of the swing songs the first night a guy (i don't know his name) asked me if i'd like to dance and we got going....a little, we started doing the lindy swing (you know the one where you kick your legs out), which I hadn't done forever! So I was bit rusty. Oh I also got to swing with Joe, (Joseph) that was good. After the dance there was a bonfire at Camp Nauvoo, the girls once again (Kadi, Chantae, and I) decided sleeping was better lol. yes it was. We had Derryn's car that night, and the next morning we decided it be better to sleep an hour, and pay for breakfast than to get up at 6am, and go over to Camp Nauvoo for breakfast. Smart Choice.

We all met up at the Stake center, for Speakers (Brother Murdock, and Elder Reall) and workshops also. The glorifying God workshop was really good, and so were the speakers no doubt about it! After the workshops we decided it'd be a good idea to.....get more Fudge. Love that place! Then we went over to the Visitor's Center, got a tour, and watch the Joseph Smith Movie, without a doubt that one ALWAYS makes me cry. Afterwards, we talked with one of the Sister Missionaries for a bit, then we went over to Latter-Day Harvest. After that it was about time for our temple baptistery session. I had a family name to do, which accidentally got mixed into someone else's family baptisms. BUT I definitely without a doubt am learning to feel the spirit more in my everyday life, which is something that came more clear to me at the temple. As we were waiting for baptisms, I just had this simple feeling that I should go and ask about doing my family baptism. Sadly i never got up and did that. I was so excited to do that baptism. But I'm definitely glad it got done anyways. I really do think that my family member, accepted the baptism, just by the way I felt watching and listening to the baptisms, and then when I left for the confirmation room I was at peace. (Which is right after she was baptized and before the confirmation) Towards the end I saw Brother Jensen (Rick's Father) outside the baptism area, and smiled and waved at him. Oh and I guess towards the end one of the steps of the baptismal font came off, and a couple of people tripped. I know when I was into the water it was wobbly. Kadi, Chantae, Bo, and I were the last ones (I'm pretty sure) from the conference to leave the temple. Then it was raining outside. So we all quickly got in the car and went back over to Camp Nauvoo for Dinner, and met up with everyone. Then we went back to the hotel, and changed clothes for the dance and hopped right over to the dance. We were about 20mins late, and it was just barely beginning. There actually was hardly anyone on the dance floor. Which is where i spend most of my time. Jennica and I got the DJ (same night as before) to get Cupid Shuffle and the EFY (we like to party song) and we got to dance to it! YAY! And apparently I really get into line dances. haha. Joe was watching me and when we were dancing later told me that I was really good at it and that during the EFY dance there were quite a few people watching me. Awesome. (not) because I definitely messed up and jaillion times.

The second dance was WAY better than the first the music selection and amount of people there too. I also really LOVED how it was at Adventure Zone, because not everyone has a high tolerance of dance or even like to dance that much, and at Adventure Zone, if you weren't dancing there definitely was something else you could do. Also during the second dance I got to Swing Dance with my new friend Josh, and he is crazy good at leading! I mean I've known a couple of the moves we did, (don't even start to ask me what moves we did I can never remember the names of them lol) but I'd only done them like once, maybe twice if I was lucky. But either just about everything went pretty smooth. Crazy! We even did a lift, it was the candlestick (I know that name), and we got to the part where he lifted me above him, and I went ahead and moved my hands for better support and straightened them all the way out. IT. WAS. SWEET. (please keep in mind I'm terrified of heights) But then the dismount, was supposed to be a waterfall, where I would slide down his back and come out between his legs (I'm pretty sure). Well you see I've never done that before (and he didn't know) so instead of going head first onto the floor I just let myself fall onto my knees, and legs, and probably almost took a group of guys out. ha. After a few seconds I just got right back up and started spinning, and slipping again. It was sweet! I really wish I had that recorded. Oh and I got an AWESOME bruise. I mean I think it looks pretty cool. (oh it was my good Knee too, no worries!)

Wow, dancing that night really made me realize how much I miss Super Saturday's, and just the simple fact I was always able to go to them. The rest of the night was good, I danced with Josh another time, and we didn't do the candlestick this time. lol. During the dance Tim, (also known as Tiny Tim) told Jennica and I that we were his favorites. YES! So we got a picture with him, and another friend that I regrettably forgot his name (see above!)

All in All this was a GREAT dance.

Jennica and Me Below

The Dance ended at 11:30pm. And we all parted and went our ways. When Chantae and I got back to the room (Kadi left that night because she had to finish her talk for the next day) we talked about a few things which was nice, and our plans for the next day.

Sunday Chris picked us up at the Hotel (Derryn, Bo, Kadi, and Erik left the night before) and we went over to the Stake Center for Sacrament and Testimony Meeting. It was cool to see how many people it took to pass the Sacrament and how they did it. The Testimony Meeting was good. Remember how I said I'm starting to recognize we the spirit is talking to me? Well I knew I wanted to bear my testimony, because honestly I've been through a lot with the past few months, just to list some things; Rick leaving, decision to transfer, where to, my food allergies going pretty much away (still something to watch for), My potassium being low, and then magically being okay, Spraining my knee, trying for seriously 3 months to find a second job, and finding a second job, My Grandfather passing away. I mean there's so many things! Plus I'd rather do it in front my peers versus, my family, and my home ward. (I guess I'm just more comfortable with that) So I had this feeling I should go up there right immediately. Sigh, well I procrastinated, for and told myself give it 10 minutes, and then that's when I got in line. Long story short, time ran out and I was about 5 people away from bearing my testimony. Worst part is, I really felt like that was going to happen when I walked up there.....sigh. Oh well. Maybe one of these days I'll get the courage to go up in testimony meeting at home.

After the testimony meeting we all rushed out of the building so the Nauvoo Wards could use it, and went back to Camp Nauvoo for brunch. Right after we packed our lunch and went back to the hotel and left! Fun story though. When we were packing I'd put the card key somewhere, and I totally forgot where. Turns out right as we were entering Kirksville, I remembered exactly where I left it......In my back pocket. OF COURSE! haha

I came home a took a nap then went to Sunday school, and relief society. Sister Coggins taught us a lesson on faith, and it was really good! She always says she's so nervous teaching but she does such a good job at it!

I went to the Sunday dinner of course! but the Vorkinks were going to Nauvoo, so we just had it at the church, and that went pretty well. After we cleaned up, some of us (Katrina, Bo, Ari, Brandon, Chantae, and I) all stayed and played Sardines. Yes. In the Church. This is what you get away with when you get older. We also played, Olly-Olly-Oxenfree. Which we all had a blast play them. It was kind of funny too! A little after 7 (i think) we turned off all the lights, and locked up, and left. It was way fun.

Overall I had a GREAT weekend!! :) :) :) :)

August Is Over.

It's been a long month to say the least.

Where to start....hmmm.

Let's see I never ended up at the pageant, so it'll be a LONG time before I ever see it again.

Well I went back to work...Yay! (only because I need money),I dyed Mom's hair, well highlighted it actually, and she didn't mine, but it didn't work the first time so we had to get actual blonde, which didn't all show up either and what did has mostly faded now, haha. Danielle and I started Dorm/apartment shopping. The first time we went the whole cart was pink! haha Some of the Church kids all went swimming that was crazy fun! Only when they swam back out to the beach I stayed and talked to my lifeguard friend Slater on the dock.

Most of the first two weeks of August were spent working, and then going out to the cabin to hang with Anthony and Ryan, which has been a lot of fun, luckily we got to the point wear it was always too cold to swim, and I do believe I've seen Ice Age II a billion times now.

One of my Best Friends Courtney had a Birthday the 12th of this last month so my friend Kadi, and her sister Wendy threw her a surprise party the next night. haha It was way funny we played dodgeball at the church and possibly night games after, well Courtney doesn't play dodgeball, and I do...sometimes, but I usually don't so I ran errands with Courtney and she'd been totally suspicious of Kadi and Wendy...Well when Courtney and I were in Walmart (she pushed me in the cart the whole time hehe) it got REALLY dark out and we had to run back to the church where Halee and Augusta were too, which was because I had to ride with Halee out and so did Augusta and Courtney was Kadi's ride, so It was crazy we had to get water balloons in the Clarkson's car. Go Back to my house, then to Halee's then out to the Clarkson's before Courtney and Kadi got back. Luckily we made it and were all set up and had the lights off just for like 7 mins when they pulled up, I recored it, but it's pretty embrassing because I missed the whole thing haha so It's not going to go up anywhere. We had cake and Ice Cream, and chips and dip. Then Courtney busted up a Pinata, so candy as well! After we finally decided on a movie, which was really good but I totally forgot what movie it was. ha. We all just crashed after that. Halee had to leave early the next morning and Augusta had to also, but I just stayed at the Clarkson's longer, until Kadi went into town.

Mom called the Clarkson's house that afternoon like 1 or 2...and let me know that Grandpa Ward was doing bad. Really bad. Harry and Jill, so were Leslie and Mike and Shannon and Steven were on there way. So when I went home a couple hours later, Sarah and I went to Grandpa and Grandma Ward's house in Laplata. Sarah made him a card, and went to see Grandpa at the beginning and then played with Lydia our cousin. I was in the bed room for awhile too, then I went out to the living room with most everyone else and just talked for the most part.

(Grandpa Holding Uncle Harry, Years ago.)

It got to the point where Grandpa was doing really bad, and Grandma was having a hard time, and they gathered everyone into the tiny room where Grandpa was, and Uncle Steven, Mike, Harry, and my Dad, Wally gave him a blessing. Uncle Steve gave the blessing, only this time it wasn't a blessing to heal him, or have him get better by any means. The gave him a blessing of peace, that Grandpa's spirit would be released. That was the hardest part for me. It all became real then. He wouldn't be here in the same state as us. We all were in tears and for the next couple of hours we all were in and out of the room. Eventually around 10pm, I took Sarah home, then Dad came home later on that night like a midnight. Nothing had happened yet. So we all went to bed.

(August 15th, 2010)

And When I woke up in the next morning. I was up. Dad and Jeremy went early then Me and the west of my family went up around 10am. We got there just in time because the Bishopric (from Macon Branch) brought the Sacrament to our family. My cousins Jonathan and Zach blessed it and then my Brothers Jeremy and Matthew passed it to us. Then once again we all did our own thing went in saw Grandpa, spent time with him, left for a little while etc. Then a bit before 4pm Grandma Ward was singing to him the last song she sang to him was I am a child of God. Uncle Mike (I think) came and got everyone who was there, without saying exactly what was happening. Somehow I got stuck with the puppy Tucker, so I ran him outside in his little pin, then back inside to the room. We all knew what was coming. Everyone was in the room except for a the younger cousins. The cousins/Grandchildren who weren't in the room were: Brittany (in Oregon) Kris (in Kirksville) Mori (in Arizona I believe) Jonathan, Jeremy(both in trailer) Katie, Lydia, Matthew, Bryan, and Sarah (all at the park) Everyone else in our family was there.

After the shock was over, we got hugs from Grandma Ward, and left the room for awhile. Poor Brother Czuba he was the first one to come over after it happened. He was just dropping in after church to say Hi and whatnot, and was not expecting the bad news when Grandma answered the door. The hospice person who had been working with Grandpa filled out her papers as everyone calmed down. The the person from Travis Noe, in Laplata came and took Grandpa's body away. They were very kind and sweet about it, they asked if the sons wanted to help carry it out and stuff. Right after that. We put the house back together and the "kids" were kicked out (to the trailer) and funeral preparations began.

The Granddaughters got to decide on the bouquet of flowers from the Grandchildren Which were a red rose (Grandpa's favorite) for each Grandchild (16) and then Lilacs(Grandpa planted a bunch outside the outside awhile back).

August 17th 2010

My family traveled down to laplata around 4pm, got some dinner that families had brought over. Then just hung out with everyone until it was time to go to the visitation which started at 6pm but families go early you know? We set everything up, the slideshow, the display, and the picture board. Then looked at all the flowers and Grandpa's body. Turns out the lilacs were horrible, so they just told the person working on the bouquet to do whatever she wanted. She did an AMAZING job.

I learned that as Members of the LDS church, when you take out your endowments and you die, you will be buried in your temple clothing. Which for some reason to me that was very comforting. I mean it just makes sense, the more and more I think about it.

So many people came and visited. My visiting teacher Janet Coggins came pretty much just to see me and my Mom which was super sweet! It was kind of funny at one point you had the cousins/Grandchildren in the back talking and we all started laughing then Jonathan said you know I kind of feel bad, we're laughing at our Grandpa visitation, and there are so many people crying. I told him, I did my crying, and I'm okay now. They soon agreed with that. We all left right after the visitation and slept.

August 18th 2010

Funeral 10am.

Family be there 9am.

Got up at 7am why? Danielle was leaving that day I HAD to go say bye! I did. that was bad. I must say I really liked how my hair turned out that day. Got home grabbed pants knee brace whatever else I needed. Got in the car, and went directly to the Macon Branch Building. We were all pretty much locked away on one side of the building,(so the kids wouldn't get rowdie) Got to meet some more people I'm related to. Oh Bruce and his wife do wedding cakes! and Catering. Good to know for future purposes. lol. Then my cousins and brother started joking with me about marriage. They sound just like Courtney and Kadi! ha. And when I said cousins. I meant Jonathan and Kelcey mainly, Jonathan a lot though He said something to the extent of "Elder's going to come home off the airplane ring in hand and be like MARRY ME and you're going to say YES! Simple as that." wow...

Okay. All the family came into the tiny room and magically, I really mean magically fit into only THREE rows. Crazy. We're a big family.

Presiding: Elder Micheal J. Reall (Member of the Seventy)

Conducting: President Richard Greenland

Chorister: Jill Ward

Organist: Margo Salt

Opening Hymn: #263 Each Life that Touches Ours For Good

Invocation: Harry Ward

Talk: Jim Beckley

Eulogy & Talk: Steven Ward

Musical Number: O My Father. -Janelle Vorkink, Jill Ward, Pattie Ward, and Shannon Ward

Talk:President John Jorgenson

Talk: President Richard Greenland

Talk: Elder Micheal J. Reall

Hymn:#136 I Know that my Redeember Lives

Benediction: Mike Dochterman

Graveside Service:

The American Legion did the gun shooting thing because Grandpa was a vetran.

Then we went on with our service

Hymn: #301 I Am a Child of God. All versus.

Grave Dedication: Wally Ward

The service was exactly what everyone in our family needed to hear. I mean there's no other way to describe it. It's one of those times you grow as a family and you are very grateful for it, the part I like most it that it was our WHOLE family. Even those who have a different faith than us. And then just being able to feel the spirit there as well was soo calming. We even had an Seventy there! Which is way cool. I don't remember if he actually knew Grandpa well, but he's from the Columbia Stake and got to speak to us. My favorite part was hearing how Grandpa impacted so many lives, very simply. For instance I knew my Grandparents and Dad were around when the Kirksville Ward was growing, but I never realized how much the Macon Branch actually depended on their family.The Eulogy Steve gave was probably different from what most people do. Steve read Grandpa's words the entire time. It was Grandpa's our biography, from one of his journals of course. It was great. Is it weird that I'm saying my Grandfather's funeral service was Great?

After the grave service the Grandchildren all but Caitlyn, Kendall, and Zach took their flowers off the bouquet and some laid them on top of his casket and a few kept their. I know I kept mine, and I have Luke's as well. Then we all went to the Baptist Fellowship Hall? I think that what it's called either way it's the new Baptist building behind Grandpa and Grandma's house, and we all had lunch there. Which was fun. The Teenagers. had our own table to terrorize each other haa. And we really did. After the lunch Kayya, Me, Katie, and Kelcey went to the trailer and watched the other side of heaven and Kelcey took a nap. It was a really good movie.

After that day everyone has just gone their own separate ways. Done their own thing.

Everyone is back in school, all College students and all. I kind of miss the social aspect of being with my friends and on my own. But oh well. I finally got a second job too! It's McDonald's! Woo! I start work in this coming Friday, and I hope it goes well. I'm glad I've got this job working with actual people, and not just a loner job calling people. But I will continue to work at Martiz.

Now the goal is just to get a car. A really good car. No more than $3,000. bleh aslfdhsjfagsl

Grandpa At the Old Co-Op Station

End of July Update.

Nothing too much has been going on since I came back from STL. Just been working and then hanging out with Danielle at night. Finally met with Bishop Wilson after like a month of him asking when I was open ha. Dad got a new calling. He's the Elder's Quorum President now. I've been teaching CTR 5. found out the salt recipe they give you is horrible! I got to go to FHE with the YSA's!!!! YAY!!! And Kelli comes too!! Which is even better!

The First time I went to FHE after I got my schedule changed we had a lesson giving my Joey. It was over a couple General Conference talks, it was good too! And after we decided to play basketball, but we didn't have a basketball. So Joey went and got one then we all decided to hide. haha. oh man. I ended up hiding under one of the couches. I think Courtney and someone else lifted it up, and put it down on top of me, while other hid behind it or around it. Joey came back, after we locked him out, (he had keys) found where we were, saw the everyone around the couch and behind it, and got real close to me haha, so i tickled his leg! It was funny! Then we escaped and played basketball ha. Well after awhile we all got tired and just decided to throw the ball around. Well knowing me, I turned around and got hit right in the face with the basketball, (it was being thrown at the hoop and missed) Well as you can tell from the picture below, I got a nice shiner. ha. Then the next day Luke fell and got a little shiner too from the side walk. Sadly you can't really see it in this picture. Luckily it just looked really bad. It was gone by the next week.

One sunday we decided to have a BBQ and also invited the Nugent's (this pic below is from the 2nd time) It was lots of fun. We had the basic hotdogs and chips. Then we roasted Starbursts and Marshmallows and made Smores.
In between all of this, Danielle and I have picked up something new to do. 4-Wheeling! The first night it wasn't very muddy at all. And once we finally got to the Mud Farm we got to the mud part and Cody the guy I was riding with decided to go through this huge mud pit, when didn't look so bad until we hit it hard, got stuck, and flew off the bike hahaa. And then spent most of the rest of the night pulling it out. Turns out they've actually lost a 12ft ladder in that pit. whoops. Then the next time, we actually got pretty muddy. Made a new trail, went on the race track, pulled a bunch of wheelies, oh and then Matt the guy Danielle was riding with decided to go through a little part of this mud pit. Well he got stuck too, only this time no one went flying.

The boys just left us there to go get a strap to get unstuck. That was quick, then we rode some more, and started to go back that's when we saw cows and almost hit a few. Made it back safely then took a dip in the pond. Whoot!

Then it was fair week. Yippee, we didn't go riding during that week. But My Mom's friend Chantal came for a visit, and we took a trip to Moberly which is they used to live for quite awhile. They had tons of fun there, and now some people in the Moberly Ward actually know me, for me. haha. NOT Pattie's Girl. Then when we left, we stopped at a restaurant where David works, which is pretty much Mom's "brother". Now on to Columbia! We got there and just cooled off. Because the air conditioning in the suburban doesn't work, and it was WAY hot. Mom, Chantal, and Aunt Sandy went to dinner, and I watched Luke and played with Andrew a bit. Luke had a hard time without Mom being there, but he was fine in the long run. The next day Chantal flew back to Utah in the EARLY morning. After awhile we all got up ate a donut or two, then got ready to go to the mall with everyone. We came back and had to leave, the kids needed to do some work. But either way it was still fun! After Mom, Luke and I went back to the mall. You see Wet Seal was having a sale and I got 2 new pairs of Jeans and a skirt, and Mom got a shirt! YAY!

It was a good day. AND My little cousin Andrew was soo cute he kept on coming up and giving me hugs, he even held my hand for a little bit. This is such a big deal because I never see him and he's Autistic. So that was great!

The next night Danielle and I went 4-wheeling again. And got way way way muddy! Towards the middle the boys were flinging mud everywhere and on a sharp turn I fell off, magically, and the tire landed on my knee in a weird position. I said and asked Cody to get it off of me. Haha. He heard me but didn't even realize I had fallen off. It hurt a bit just felt like it was out of place. we rode around after that a bit. Got COVERED in Mud at least me. Danielle even threw a huge chunk of mud and it ended up going in my mouth because I was laughing. It was sooooo gross.

After I'd fallen off Danielle and I were just walking around, then took some pics, or well tried, apparently I've broke another Camera, gah! Hey at least this time it lasted over a year!

Well when I woke up the next day I was in a lot of pain. So off to the doctors. I was sent in for an X-Ray, and well at least it's not broken. I just have a bad sprain. So I busted out the ol' knee brace, and actually ended up getting a new more supportive one as well. It's just annoying more than anything. So I've off work since monday, and I go back on Friday. YAY small paycheck. While I was in the office Dr. Lee drew blood to check my potassium levels, which were fine. Which is WAY weird because I haven't been taking the potassium. But I still have to take the meds.

I went fishing/swimming one night, and then after Danielle and I were starving, and dying to have some pancake city. We got back into town, and it was closed! man! So we got McDonald's instead. I'm actually still bummed about it. There will be another time!

Then today I went swimming at the Lake with my family, the Vorkinks, the Wilson's and a few others. That was lots of fun. The boys were making a human pyramids. haha I got out after awhile because my knee was a little sore, and I needed to eat something. Then I swam out to the dock, yes with my gimpy leg and all. The boys were attacking the horseflies out there, and the kids back close to shore were catching fish. When we swam back to shore, we made a huge sand castle, and then torn it up. Then Elizabeth and I were buried in sand. haha we volunteered! And then shaped into a siamese twin mermaid, and we had HUGE biceps! (picture soon to come)

Bishop challenged, me when I went to talk with him to read the scriptures, at least a little bit everyday. So far I've been doing pretty good, only my pattern is read 2 days in a row, miss a day 2 days in a row miss a day. Not too bad though. Now I just need to keep it up, and get my patriarchal blessing, I NEED it. Oh and i NEED to go to Nauvoo, and see the pageant, this year. Like really really bad. sadly, I don't think that's going to happen

Ohh. Picture at bottom is from Rick! Elder Jensen emailed to me this past week. And I LOVE IT, I also did a little editing to it too!

P.s. there will be a Elder Jensen Mission update when he's been gone around 6 months. Stay tuned for more details. haha.