Ladies... you need to be nicer!

I love my roommates... They are beautiful, fun, exemplary people. I couldn't ask for more.


As fabulous as we all are, we're all still extremely human and being such, we get a little overwhelmed. This is the case right now... Being overwhelmed we get a little sassy. Yesterday we were cleaning for hours on end, and we were getting kind of brutal. Suddenly Natalie said, "Ladies, you need to be nicer!" in a lovely sing song voice. It's true, we need to be nicer... The good news is, we only have two days of school this week, then it's Thanksgiving! So we only have to put up with the sass for two more days, then we get a chance to rejuvenate ourselves. Can I get a Hallelujah? Yep! HALLELUJAH! I am thankful for Thanksgiving break! I am thankful for my roommates! I am thankful for little things like being able to choose if I have pulp in my orange juice or not! Life is good, but life will be better next week after I've had a break. Amen.

Best,
Sydnie Juniper

Narcolepsy

This morning I awoke at 6:20 and got ready with the intent of going to the library to study for my French test. The night before I had even laid my clothes out so I didn't have to decide what to wear today. I was prepared to conquer today, or so I thought. I made it to the Library after about 5.5 very cold minutes of walking, climbed to the third level (with the thoughts that heat rises, so I would warm up fastest at the top). After searching for a chair that suits my fancy (I like the ones with cushions, but no armrests), I plopped down, opened my backpack, retrieved my text and notebooks, and promptly started to doze. How ridiculous! I had only been sitting for about two minutes! So, I drank some water, put my headphones in and tried to listen to some upbeat music, and even tried keeping my legs moving in hopes these actions would help me stay awake. No such luck. I was nodding off despite my efforts. I had been at the library for nearly 20 minutes, and had only achieved probably 4 minutes worth of studying.

Almost every morning, someone in our house says, "I'm going back to bed" (It's usually Teisha). Whenever I say it though, I never really do go back to bed, that's because my conscience works really hard on me and says, "you can't go back to bed, you have to go to class." Well you want to know something? Today, as I sat slumped in my cushioned, arm-rest-less chair in the library, I said, "I'm going back to bed," and I DID IT! I marched 5.5 minutes back to my house through the cold and climbed back into my nice warm bed. There was no stopping me. Did I go to CSIS? Did I go to Biology? No, Sir. I did not. But, did I awake with a renewed sense of... awareness? You bet your bottom dollar I did. I don't know too many people that take naps at 9 o'clock in the morning, but more people should if they all woke up feeling as rejuvenated as I did.

Although that nap probably will ware off soon (because I think I might have a sliver of narcolepsy in my blood), I am grateful that I did it, because if I hadn't, I might have scowled at some people on my way to class, rather than smile. And we all know that scowling isn't the best way to make or keep friends. So, in a roundabout way, I'm thankful for my nap because it (more than likely) has helped in the retention of friendships in my life. Anyhow, I'm off to work.

Best,
Sydnie Juniper

Imagine That.

Who was I kidding. I have no time to sit and write a blog post. I don't even have time to write in my personal journal... I know you are all a little crushed by this, but don't get your panties in a bunch. Someday I will have nothing to do and then I might indulge in a bit of life documentation. So, just hang in there, it'll come around someday.
Best,
Sydnie Juniper

Somthing's Cookin'

It's been over four months since I've written a blog post... that's a long time, and a lot can happen in that length of time. Don't worry something's cookin' and it's going to be a long one, but it'll be good. I promise. Stay tuned.
Best,
Sydnie Juniper

Some things I find repulsive... like skeezy boys.

Dear skeezy boys,
Get a little class, would ya!
Best,
Sydnie Juniper

The End Must be Near

Dear Friends, Followers, and Cyberspace,
Today is the twenty and fourth day of May and the weather is quite inclement. Reasons of speculation are that the end is coming. This day it may be snowing, tomorrow watch out for hellfire and damnation. It seems to be just around the corner at this rate. No matter, we will all soldier on.
Cordially yours,
Sydnie Juniper

I Am Highly Desirable

In the tenth grade I had some stern words one day with my best friend Sarah Juchau. I'm pretty sure these were the exact words to come out of my mouth, "you may understand football,basketball and baseball and have kissable lips, but at least I'm compassionate!" Then I ran away.

A few months ago I was talking to some friends in the PE building on campus. Somehow the topic of me not going on any real dates my whole freshman year came up. I got heated at this point as well and told them about how, "I am a great person!" Then I ran away.

I think this is one of those moments again, except this time I'm not running away. I am standing by it because I know it's true.

I may not be able to get a glowing tan during the summer, play the piano, do ballet, or train wild horses. I am not like most girls, but who is? Really every girl is different, but I like to think I'm kind of special, but again, who doesn't? So, I'm going to take a second to float my own boat, because I think I need it tonight.

Here's a list of ten random reasons why I'm actually a great catch.

10. I am an honest person.
9. I can eat 17 Swedish pancakes. I am no sissy when it comes to eating.
8. I look great in the color turquoise
7. I make some of the best mashed potatoes known to mankind.
6. I am not afraid to plunge a toilet, clean up throw-up or kill spiders. I do what has to be done.
5. How many girls do you know that are brave enough to do this? Enough said.

4. I know how to be practical and happy. I can laugh at my mistakes and see the silver lining in most things.
3. I work hard at getting to know the best in people, however different from me they may be
2. I know I can make it through hard things, and can make a difference by helping others get through them as well.
1. I have a strong relationship with and testimony of my Savior, Jesus Christ and base my life on that foundation.
Overall, I really am a decent person. Someday my man who I'm sure is really great is going to come along and realize this. I really am highly desirable, perhaps people just need help realizing it. Someday, my someday will come along. Until then, I'm going to keep on moving forward.

M&M Cookies vs. Goggles

Today I came one step closer to womanhood and conquered a fear I've had since the fifth grade. Oh, Nellie do I feel satisfied with myself!

IDK, My BFF Jill

I have several best friends. They are all superior. All of them I know I didn't meet by chance, this is evident in how they've helped me mold my life to be what it is today. I have had several best friends in the past, and even though I'm not as good of friends with them today, they've all influenced my life in some way. I want you to meet them, and to know how I feel about them each.

Let's start at the very beginning.

Elizabeth Anne JohnstonI can not even remember how Beth and I first met. We've been friends since before we were potty-trained. We've grown up together. Although she is a year older than me, I think it's safe to say that our childhoods were almost identical. This is because we spent every moment together. I love Beth more than I could ever express. We've each been through a lot in our lives, and stuck together through it all. Her family is my family, and mine is hers. Although we don't hang out as much as we used to, I know every time I am with her it is as if we were never apart. That is the kind of solid relationship that everyone needs in their life. She is the most talented violist I know. Back in the day she even played at my baptism. That is love. I love her and would do anything for Elizabeth Anne Johnston, just as long as it made her happy.

Amy Lynn Soderquist
Amy and I have a very similar story to Beth and I. We have also known each other for as long as I can recall. Amy and I are the same age, however, so we share a few different memories than I do with Beth. Am Dawg is so supreme, yes like a pizza. Like a supreme pizza because she has so much going for her. She is kind, beautiful, spiritual, long suffering, naturally musically talented, and all the boys love her. Not to mention my love for her. I spent many hours (accumulatively-sp) carrying her clarinet to the bus while she ate her hot pocket or toast for breakfast. Yes, that is how much I love Amy Lynn Soderquist, and I'd still carry it if she needed me to. She is a real gem, and I am so happy she has so much going for her right now.

Mary Amelia Patricia Tracy O'Neill
She has so many names, I'm not even sure I got them all right. Amelia, as we called her, moved to AF when we were in the fourth grade. I automatically liked her thanks to her many quirks. As instant friends should, we shared several late night sleepovers, plots to keep her in AF, crazy dance parties, hair tragedies, random moments in the garage, and lots of tears when she moved. Amelia left AF at the end of seventh grade, and left me heart broken. Luckily, we kept in contact and went to EFY three times together. We've grown a lot together, had to realize that sometimes things aren't in our control, but no matter what happens, friendship can endure all.

Megan Hazel HatchMegan Hatch has been one of THE biggest tender mercies in my life. So big in fact, I don't even know if it's considered a tender mercy, probably more like a life changing blessing. I knew who Megan Hatch was when I was in the second grade. We didn't even go to the same school, but we played on the same Jr. Jazz basketball team. I have the picture to prove it. I didn't really get to know her until the eighth grade, though. That was the beginning of a beautiful friendship. I could tell you a zillion stories about spending time with her. She is one of the best people I know. Everyone knows who she is, but I am one of those fortunate enough to KNOW who she is. Not everyone has the distinct privilege to become as close to her as I have. Sure she can be goofy, but honestly nobody I know is quite as solid as she is. She has been one of the greatest friends I could ask for over the last three years. She has stood by my side through thick and thin, dry and moist (if you know what I mean). She is one heck of a person and I consider myself highly blessed to call her one of my best friends.

Sarah JuchauSarah Juchau is one of the classiest people I know. We met in the eighth grade in women's choir. Our friendship was solidified one night as we gorged ourselves on Swedish Fish and vowed never to do it again. I can't say it's a vow I've kept. Over the last few years I have grown to love Sarah Juchau so much, and she knows it because she makes me say, "I love you" at the end of every phone conversation, and even though my dad thinks it's weird, I say it anyway, because it's true. Sarah is the kind of best friend that I can be completely berserk with one minute, and then have an emotional breakdown with the next. We can sit in silence and know exactly what the other is thinking. We call it a "double S moment." They're neat. I like it when they happen. We have a way of persuading each other to do things that the other doesn't want to do, like going to Sadie Hawkins our senior year. We are good enough friends we're not afraid to tell each other when the other is being completely annoying. We're not even afraid to give each other bruises. It's the kind of friendship that will endure anything, even Idaho. I miss her heaps and heaps, and she has taught me so much about being obedient, and fearless.

Trent Karl ZimmermanTrent and I became friends the day he threw a frisbee at my head the summer before my sophomore year. That fall at school we had chemistry together. It was a miserable, yet bonding experience for the both of us. We became really good friends and spent a lot of time doing a whole lot of random fun stuff, which is almost exactly how I would describe him. He also spent a lot of time listening to me whine about boys and other girl drama. I love this boy like none other, he holds a special place in my heart as my first really good guy friend. He's currently serving a mission in Resistencia, Argentina. Although he hasn't written me in five months, I think I'll still tolerate him when he gets home in September of 2011.


Kaitlin Christine Wimmer
I met Kaitlin in the tenth grade. We had French and English together. One night at French club, we randomly sat by each other on the bus, and became best friends. We participated in several wholesome activities, such as eating hash brown patties, slugging each other when they saw a yellow car, coming up with inside jokes, and to-do lists. I even set her up with Trent, kind of. That went well... haha. I admire her so much, she is so smart, and knows how to have a good time. I even went to the temple with her this morning. She is a good egg.

Alexa Catelin Crawford
I have learned so much from Lex. She is one of the strongest people I know. I don't exactly remember how we became friends, but I am certainly glad it happened. Somewhere in sophomore year we got together and it lead to a journey of snowboarding, dancing in the rain, wrestling, and long thoughtful talks. Lex has endured so much in her life and definitely is a trooper through it all. Most recently she broke her back snowboarding, and each time I've seen her since she's had such a good attitude about it. Not to mention she's in the Army, which means she's physically strong too. She is such a good example to me in everything she does.

Jensen Todd Hayter
On the last day of school sophomore year I was formally introduced to Jensen Hayter. Although I knew him from a distance, we were never friends until that day. Let's be honest about Jensen. He is one of a kind. Nobody in this world is like him. He is one witty white boy. Although his parents didn't exactly approve of his hanging out with six girls every Friday and Saturday he still did it. That is love. He could be a spaz or a know-it-all. But I love him either way, because it's all part of the package. He's currently on a mission in Independence, Missouri. He stinks a writing letters. I miss him loads and can't wait for him to be home. Hopefully he still likes me and hasn't had every ounce of fun drained out of him.

Kimberly Ann WrightKim and I are kindred spirits. She'd kill me for saying it though, because she hates Anne of Green Gables. Despite that though, I find it in my heart to care about her. I didn't meet Kim until the eleventh grade. It is a pity we didn't meet sooner because we really are two peas in a pod. One day when we were helping with the blood drive, we just hit it right off. That day she came over to my house, which I don't always do right off the bat. People must earn my complete trust before I let them into my home. Kim has proved worthy of coming to my house too many times to count since then. Together Kim and I are invincible. Our obscurity seems to bind us. There is just too much to say about Kim, and I fear I'd leave something out if I even began. Just know that I love her for tolerating my nezbits among other things. She is the best, and that's all there is to it.

Alyson DeAnn MillerAly and I first bonded in eighth grade history with Mr. Ivie. Nobody knew we'd be in history together again in the eleventh grade with Coach Knight. It was there that we really sealed the deal. As coach was a bit old, we had several conversations in that class that brought us together. Then our senior year we were SBO's together and that brought a whole new chapter to our lives together. So many entire days were spent together at school, making posters, watching three games in one night, and then dancing in the parking lot. But besides being a noble friend, Aly is a quality all around person. She is easily one of the best dancers out there, and taught me every dance co. move I know. She is friends with so many different kinds of people, and gets along with almost everyone. She tells it like it is, and thus has taught me several things about life. Alyson DeAnn Miller is high class, and I aspire to someday be like her.

Spencer Dean McDonaldIn the ninth grade I was determined to have a crush on someone. I flipped through the yearbook and I chose Spence. But, that didn't last long, I didn't even know him after all. Who knew we'd become best friends our junior year in high school? Spence went to Sadie Hawkins with me our junior year, and I ripped my pants dancing... let's just say from that day forward, our friendship was never questioned. Spencer, aside from being a musical prodigy, science fair winner, dork, and a ladies man, is the kind of friend I aspire to be. He is one of the least judgmental people I have ever known and accepts me for me, and listens to me when I need to vent. He knows how to play the friendship game, and he does it well. He's currently serving a mission in Bangkok, Thailand, and I'm sure is an incredible missionary. Love him.

Rebecca Maria Eponine Wohan
Reb blows me away every time I think about her. She is one incredible tootsie roll. I didn't become friends with her til senior year, but always admired her from a distance. You see, Reb has been the star of almost every musical at American Fork High School. One note of singing from her mouth and my heart is melted. But, don't let her gentle voice fool you, as a dancer she can cream almost anyone at a wrestling match. Her flexibility is undauntedly the best there is. Next to that, she stuns audiences at a time in pageants, and helps kids in Uganda learn to read. She is a hard worker and teaches me perseverance and inspires me to accomplish any goals I set for myself. In the picture above she's the gorgeous fake tan one I'm standing right next to.

Josevy Jasiel BotelloJosevy is a stud, a real numba' one stunna', and my best friend down in Cedar City. I met him through ambassadors, and quickly became friends with him. I knew from the beginning he was a good apple. There were a lot of times down at school that he lifted me up when I was down, and I'm so grateful to have found him. He was my downfall to sticking it to the man when it came to twilight and made me watch it and new moon with him. He tried to teach me how to jerk... like that worked, styled my hair, gave me boy advice and always stuck by my side. He is waiting to go on his mission in September to Ribeirao Preto, Brazil. He is so ready to go, and is going to bless the lives of countless Brazilian people. I can't wait to hear all about it.

There are so many other people who have blessed my life in unmeasurable ways. I wish I had the patience to list everyone. Just know that if your reading this, chances are you've touched me, and I am so grateful for you. I know that you have all left impressions on my heart and will never be forgotten. I thank my Heavenly Father for my friends and associates every day, and I hope you feel that. I love you all, and wish you the best!

Todays Top Ten

The top ten things on my mind as I blog this afternoon

1.
I can't sleep all the way through the night anymore. This is due to a little thing I like to call "the troll factor." No, I am not afraid of trolls. Nor do I transform into one in the middle of the night causing me to lose sleep. The mere origin of "the troll factor" comes from the following happenstance. My house has three bedrooms, not including my parent's. I moved down to Cedar City to go to school, leaving my bedroom vacant. The vacancy, however, was filled not too long after by my little sister Hannah. Hannah and Jaclyn previously shared a room with a bunk-bed. When Hannah moved out of Jaclyn's room my parents got rid of the bunk-bed. The other bedroom upstairs was transformed into an office, therefore, becoming a bed-less-room. This left me a woman without a bed at home. What were my parents thinking? My mom thought it would be no big deal for me to share a bed with Jaclyn, and my dad thought I could just sleep on a cot in the office. What did I think of these ideas? I dislike them both, but I'd rather sleep with Jaclyn than on a cot for 3 1/2 months. My dad knowing of my skepticism toward his idea, thought it would be funny to clean out underneath the stairs (which I have been wary of since childhood), and set up a cot under there. So he did. He then took pictures and a video on his phone and sent them to me saying, "just set up your new room." This was the day I was in Zions and lost reception right after he sent them to me. This left me to fret over my new dwelling place, and being called Harry Potter for the rest of my life. I couldn't tell if he was joking or not, but I hoped he was. Luckily my dad isn't really that heartless. But, my mom told her cousin about the whole under-the-stairs ordeal, and now she calls me "the troll." Pleasant, I know. And, although sleeping with Jaclyn isn't as bad as a cot, I still quite dread going to bed every night because who knows if she's going to head-but me in her sleep, or completely push me off my side or not. It's quite unideal.
2.
Tonight for FHE at the singles ward we're playing "wipe-out" aka dodgeball with toilet paper. I'm kind of excited. Singles wards are often talked about sourly, but I think that mine is actually pretty top-notch.
3.
My best friend down at school, Josevy, got his mission call this past Thursday. He's going to Brazil! He's going to be a great missionary, I just know it. Also, he doesn't leave until September 22nd. Which means he'll be around when I go back to school this fall and we'll have a month to hang out again before he leaves.
4.
Yesterday was Mothers day. Mothers day in the LDS faith means that if you have a missionary in your family he gets to call home. This is kind of a big deal considering they only get to call home on Mothers day and Christmas. Yesterday while we were at my grandparents two of my c ousins called my grandma. One from Idaho and the other from Sweden. I have about seven more cousins all accross the globe serving. My grandparents put the phone on speaker so we could all listen in. It was cool to here their voices and to know how excited about the work they were. The only downside to this is, if the missionary in your family was called to "the other side of the veil, mission" they don't get to call home. Considering that is where my brother Travis was called three years ago, it seems a little unfair that we didn't get a phone call. But, life isn't fair, so we keep our chins up and wait for the day we'll have something way better than a phone call.
5.
I am going to work on developing talents this summer. Including learning to play the harmonica. But don't tell Kim, because I'm going to surprise her one day with a stirring rendition of Ol' Suzzanna. It's going to be epic.
6.
I like getting mail a lot. I like it even better when it's not a bank statement or an invitation to the national honors society of colligate scholars. I like it best when it's a letter from a missionary, or a letter from anyone really. I have sent Trent Zimmerman three letters in the last five months and haven't got one measly letter back. I am mad. Jensen Hayter is another story. I gave up hope on him a long time ago. This week I got a card from Rexburg, Idaho. It was from two of my best friends who go to BYU-I. The picture on the front was of a classy old woman sitting in a lawn chair wearing a sunhat. The caption read, "My idea of exercise is a good brisk sit." Needless to say it made my day.
7.
Speaking of exercise, I need to go running.
8.
There is a song by The Carpenters that says, "Hanging around, nothing to do but frown. Rainy days and Mondays always get me down." I felt a little bit like that this morning, but then I remembered the primary song that says, "I want to my life to be as clean as earth right after rain." That made me happier.
9.
I was almost right on time for work this morning. Only 48 seconds late. Boo-yah!
10.
I just looked in the fridge and it's looking kind of bare, especially compared to my school one that was as packed as a camel crossing the desert at the beginning of a voyage to Mecca.

Peter Pan

At the end of my senior year I was voted "Next Peter Pan; most likely to never grow up." Here's the problem; I still haven't found Neverland. I have been searching diligently, yet it seems nowhere to be found. You see, I just finished with my freshman year of college down at SUU. I feel that despite how much I want to stay a kid, I'm growing up. I've had so many growing experiences it's impossible to deny my leaving adolescence. I guess this is okay because it is inevitable, and I can stay childlike in several aspects.

I think that the way in which I have grown the most can be summed up in one line. "In order to love unconditionally you must accept and respect unconditionally." My mom said that to me as we were in the elevator leaving Eccles B 201 for the last time. To understand why this is significant you should understand that my roommates and I were all very different this year. Different in religious aspects, sexual orientation, ethnicity, and where our priorities lie.

At the beginning of the semester if you told me that three of them would become my best friends, I probably would have laughed at you. I thought it was going to be impossible to even have a civil conversation with this group of girls. However, over the course of a few months we began to realize how very wrong we were about each other. While we weren't the kind of best friends that hung out every weekend, they have become the kind of best friends that I know I can always count on. We've learned to accept and respect unconditionally and a whole lot of love has followed.

(Brittany, Marla, Megan, Sydnie)

When I received my roommate assignment in the mail last summer I looked them all up on facebook, and to be honest I was a little bit alarmed. I thought about it in a completely prideful way. My thoughts about the matter all resembled, "maybe this is just one big missionary opportunity." Just before I left for school, the thought struck me, "maybe you're not roommates with them for their sakes, but rather so you can grow and learn to love people that are different than you." With this thought in mind, I went to school with the intention of being tolerant, not necessarily accepting. Little did I know, they would end up changing my life and being a huge contributing factor to my "growing up."

Living with these girls has cemented in my heart and mind the thought, "We cannot fully love God without loving our neighbor. We cannot fully love our neighbor without loving God." (Russell M. Nelson) My testimony that we are all God's children has strengthened probably about one million times as much as it was before. I'm so glad that Heavenly Father knows exactly who we need to meet, and what we need to experience in this life in order to become the person He wants us to become. I have a testimony that Heavenly Father knows me perfectly, and He knew that these girls were supposed to be a part of my life. I know that he will continue to place people like them in my path to shape my life accordingly and I'm so grateful to understand that.

Good News with some Peanut Butter on top

First off I'd like to say, "Thank you Heavenly Father for sending the world George Washington Carver. My life would not be complete without him." You see, George Washington Carver was the inventor of peanut butter. I find that in my old age I love peanut butter more and more everyday. I just ate a PB & Banana sandwich, and boy did it hit the spot. Without peanut butter there would be no Reeces products, including cups, pieces, puffs, fastbreaks, sticks, or seasonal Santas, eggs, or pumpkins. Without these things, I might pass away.

Moving on. I got the job I applied for at Seven Peaks this summer. Yeah, Go Bessie! I just found out that they are even willing to work with me so I don't have to go home during finals week to get trained. Someone loves me. Thanks again, Heavenly Father. My life just simplified 50%. Also, shout-out to Emilie Wright for helping me get the job. She's the best!

In other news: At the beginning of the school year, I saw this boy walking down the street. I said to myself, "this is a classy kid. You should be friends with him." This boy is Edwin Herrera. Good news, I did become friends with him thanks to Josevy (who is also a classy kid.) Last night I took Edwin on a date with me to the AAPAA's aka the American Academy of Presidential Ambassador Awards. It was one of the funnest nights of my college experience. I won the award for "most colorful" and my trophy was a gold spray-painted can of easy cheese. I think it's toxic. Probably the best part of the night was when I picked Edwin up. His roommate Scott (Jamie's date) answered the door, and we entered. Soon, Eddie came into the room. He was wearing a bow tie. Yes, a bow tie. If you know anything about my grandpa, you know he wore a bow tie every day of his teaching life. Hence, bow ties hold a special place in my heart. This was a sign that it would be a good date, and it was!
What's that? You want pictures? Okay!
Boy, do I love this kid. Shout-out to Edwin for being super fly. I'm going to miss him loads when he goes on his mission. Speaking of which, I'm going to have like a total to 2 guy friends that carry over to next year because they're all going on missions. Don't get me wrong! I completely and fully 100% support their leaving to go on missions, but I'll be sad we can't hang out every weekend for two full years. However, I will prevail :)

Another thing I wanted to mention, I love walking to class when the sun is out! It is such a great way to start my day. Not only does it automatically make me smile, but I can see that other people are happier too, and they pass their smiles onto me. Also, I was thinking about today how the sun is a symbol of Christ or "the Son." It makes perfect sense because He is the ultimate source of light, He brings warmth to my hearth, and He automatically makes me happy when he is present in my life. But not only that, I see that reflected in other people too! Christ makes people's lives happier, that's all there is to it. I know that is true. I love Him, He is my Savior and Redeemer. I am so grateful to have Him as such a huge part of my life. Thanks again, Heavenly Father for knowing that about me, and fulfilling my needs.

Overall, there are so many tender mercies happening in my life right now. I know I could easily overwhelm myself with finals week coming up, but it's hard to be grumpy when I see Heavenly Father's hand in everything I do. I truly am a highly blessed individual.

Nearer to Thee

I realized a long time ago that music is a very influential thing in my life. I'm not incredibly musically inclined, however just like many of you, music tends to get stuck in my head very easily. It's not like I listened to music labeled "parental advisory" or "explicit," but after a lesson in seminary I started to pay closer attention to the words. I was surprised at how suggestive some of the lyrics got, and made a goal to listen to better music. This is something I've never regretted.

This last Sunday as I was heading back to Cedar I was listening to "Soft Sunday Sounds" on FM100, which is the classiest station out there. While I was driving, the song "I Will Rest in You" by Mindy Gledhill came on. I realized how much I loved that song, and then thought about my other religious favorites. I think my top three (non-hymn) favorites are, "Beautiful to Him," by Rachael Thibodeau "I Am," by Nichole Nordeman and "I Will Rest in You" by Mindy Gledhill, as I mentioned before. All three of these have strengthened my relationship with and faith in the Savior so much. I know He loves me, and I love Him. The power of good music is so evident in my life, and I'm so grateful for it.

Here are a few really good quotes from lds.org under music.

"Music is given of God to further his purposes. Sweet melodies mellow the souls of men and help prepare them for the gospel. After men receive the truth, songs of praise to Deity help to sanctify and cleanse their souls." -- Elder Bruce R. McConkie, Mormon Doctrine (1966), 521

"We get nearer to the Lord through music than perhaps through any other thing except prayer." -- President J. Reuben Clark Jr., in Conference Report, Oct. 1936, 111

"Music is truly the universal language, and when it is excellently expressed how deeply it moves our souls." -- President David O. McKay, in Conference Report, Apr. 1945, 119

"The most effective preaching of the gospel is when it is accompanied by beautiful, appropriate music." -- President Harold B. Lee, in Conference Report, Apr. 1973, 181

So here's a shout-out to all of the musicians in the world who provide uplifting music and help make the world more pleasant. Thank you!

Step aside Swedish Fish

This weekend was a double whammie. Not only was it Easter Sunday, but it was also what we, of the LDS religion, call General Conference. Yes, most of you are probably familiar with this (especially because I only have 2 followers, and they're both LDS). I have always loved G.C. not only because we get to listen to revelation from church authorities, but also because of these babies.... Swedish Pancakes!

These are special because my Pa only makes them on very special occasions. I can recollect only a few times that I've eaten Swedish Pancakes not on General Conference. Once my dad had to work over my birthday, and I was extremely upset. While Dad usually makes a special b-day breakfast, he made me Swedish Pancakes for me the next day to make up for missing my day. Next my cousins and I had a sleepover at my grandparents, and we convinced G-pa to make them, of course he loved us enough to give in. Last, Pop made them for my mom's first official Young Woman's presidency meeting. Needless to say, they're practically sacred in the Landeen family, right up there with horseshoe tournaments.

The next thing you need to know about these, is that you're not a true Landeen until you can eat 12. My record is 17... I think it's a family-wide record too. Once you've eaten, you're pretty much filled for the whole day. They are a blessed food. I love them.

Back to G.C. I love it too. Seriously, It's so refreshing to listen to counsel from Men and Women who are so close to Heavenly Father and His spirit. There is nothing better than receiving answers to questions that you've been pondering through the Lord's mouthpieces. This conference was particularly good because I stayed awake for all four sessions, which usually doesn't happen. Not because it's not interesting, but because being cozied up on the couch next to your mom with the sounds of the Elder's soothing voices in the background, it just tends to lull you to sleep, you know? Anyway, I didn't let that happen because I was focused on being spiritually fed. I wish I could adequately express how I feel about General Conference.

My life is good, really good. Now if only the snow would leave for about 8 months, then I'd be ecstatic!

Really, mom?

Yesterday my mom told me, "if you don't learn to flirt your chances of getting any dates this summer are slim."

Thanks ma.

Come on Sunshine...

This morning I woke up to the sound of the snowplow driving past... I wanted to roll over in my bed and cry. This morning I had to tell my sandals sorry, and put on my boots. This morning I didn't care if I was late to math, because I was in a state of despair. This morning I remembered how I'm trying to be positive about all things... it was hard to change my attitude, but I did it anyway. I still don't like the snow, but I do like life. I can hang in there a little longer I suppose. But, come on Spring!! Just try a little bit harder would you?

Moving up in the world!

Hellooo world!
So yesterday I went all the way up to Murray and back for a Presidential Ambassadors kick off. This meant about eight hours in the car total. While we were in the car, a lot of dismal conversation was taking place. We were dwelling on a lot of the negative things in the world, and it was kind of a downer, if you know what I mean. So, after talking about suicide bombers (I believe) my friend T.J. turned around and asked me, "so what's going right in your life?" I responded with something along the lines of, "well, I can't say anything too monumental is happening, but I can see a lot of little things that remind me of how blessed I am."

So, I've been thinking about what really is going right in my life, and I keep finding more things to be happy about. Most of them are little, but there are a few really big ones. For starters, yesterday I got both my tests back that I took before spring break, both of which I was worried I didn't do well on. Well, first I got my math test back, and with the added bonus points I got a 93%! The good news doesn't stop there, however. Next I got my French test back and I got a 91% on that one! What a relief it was to find out that perhaps my grades aren't as in the pits as they possibly could be.

That is just one thing contributing to my happy life right now though. One of the biggest things is this though... drum roll please... On Tuesday I signed a lease to live in a house next school year! It's a cute little yellow house just about four blocks West of where I live now. It has a porch bench, a big patio in the backyard, a basketball hoop, and on top of that my roommate is Chelsea, one of my favorite people in the whole world! But the real cherry on top is that I will be saving approx. $915.00 per semester by living there. Rent in the yellow house is only $205/month and if I average what I'm paying right now to live on campus, it's about $375/month. I am being swindled! After April, I, Sydnie Landeen will be swindled no more!
But wait, the good news is still coming. The best part about my life as of about an hour and ten minutes ago is that I found out I have a job next year! You see, I am going to be part of the Executive Council (E.C.) for Presidential Ambassadors (PA's) next year. My position is the Events Coordinator. Today I was talking to the current Events Coordinator and found out that it is actually a paid position/job. I'll be doing about 15 hours a week in the Welcome Center on Campus! Of course it probably doesn't pay as much as it should to match the amount of effort I will put in, but I'll still be getting paid to do something I was going to be doing for free anyway. So, needless to say I am beyond elated right now! I mean, sheesh, I have a job next year and I didn't even have to fill out one application. The Lord is looking out for me, and blessing me with tender mercies left and right.

So, needless to say, there are a lot of things going right in my life right now. Next school year is looking up. I'll be saving money, making money, hanging out with people I love, and getting an education all at the same time. Life is good, isn't it? :)

Oatmeal

About a year and a half ago, my grandpa remarried a woman named Norma Day. Because she's not my real grandma, we call her Gran-Norma. Gran-Norma is a gem, and I love her.

(Gran-Norma, Me, and Grandpa Maynes at lunch on graduation day)

I think it was about three weeks, maybe four weeks ago, that she said something that has become very evident in my life this week. So, three/four weeks ago, my family was congregated in St. George for my cousin Andrew's mission farewell. On Sunday morning, sometime between everyone waking up, and taking turns showering, a few of us were eating breakfast in the kitchen. The day before my mom had gone to the store and bought some cereal, (the good kind, like reeces puffs) and they were an option for breakfast that Sunday morning. While we were pouring our bowls of cereal, Gran-Norma said it. She said, "thank heavens for cold cereal or else we'd all still have to eat oatmeal! And I would know, because I've eaten my fair share of oatmeal in my life, ICK!" At the time I just chuckled, because it was just another funny comment.

This week, I've come to understand. You see, it is the last week before spring break, so I've been trying really hard not to have to go to the store, a.) because I don't have tons of money to spend and b.)because I don't want to leave too much here over the break. I think this is understandable. So, under my bed I have one of those giant tupperware things, and it contains my food storage. Lately it's been looking mighty scanty, along with my cabinet in the kitchen. In neither of my storage locations do I have any cereal... but I do have two boxes of oatmeal. So, what's for breakfast? Oatmeal, of course!

(Breakfast 3-8-10)

Ok, so I've really only had to eat it twice this week, but I'm going to have it for breakfast tomorrow too, and I have the feeling that if I had to eat it every morning for longer than a week, it might start to ware on me. So here's to you, Gran-Norma, for speaking the truth, you are one wise woman!

I wish I could say I could sing as well as Julie Andrews, or should I say Fraulein Maria, but I can’t. However, just like her, I have a few favorite things. In my opinion, the best things in life are the simple pleasures that we take for granted, or overlook when thinking about the things essential to our existence. Of course, I love the things that sustain life such as air, water, and shelter, but right now I’m talking about the things that hardly ever get credit for making people happy. In terms of me, Sydnie, it really is the little things that make me smile. So, here is a list of a few things that always manage to make me crack a grin.

My favorite things: (in no particular order)

Fanny-packs, chocolate milk, puffed sleeves, sun-hats, new experiences, haircuts, the freedom to choose if my orange juice has pulp or not, Christmas sweaters, sticky notes, barnyard animal shaped waffles, SPF 60, the Deseret Industries, the color turquoise, clip-on earrings, the word snorkel, my favorite shoes, hugs from grandparents, hugs from anyone, closing my eyes and falling right asleep, sharpened pencils, bowling a strike, new socks, letters in the mail, laughing to myself, warm summer nights, memories, checking things off of to-do lists, sequins, trampolines, new toothbrushes, living by a temple, looking at real mountains, finding candy on long hard days, crooked smiles, finding out someone has the same birthday as you, sleepovers, footsie pajamas, knowing answers to random trivia, singing to Barry Manilow when your roomies think you’re a grandma, the word grandma, full moons, swing sets, golf carts, the dollar store, leopard print, and bubble wrap.

I’m sure that if I felt like sitting here for hours, I could make this list go on forever, but I just don’t have that kind of time, ya know? So, hopefully this is sufficient for you, because it is for me!

Peace, Love, and Happiness, that's what it's all about!

I am a child of God

So, there are a lot of ways that I could kick off my blogging, but I figure it would be appropriate if I began with a post explaining the title of my newly founded blog. So... here we gooo!
In the LDS religion there is a children's song called "The Church of Jesus Christ" the words are as follows:

I belong to the church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
I know who I am.
I know God's plan.
I'll follow Him in faith.
I believe in the Savior Jesus Christ.
I'll honor His name.
I'll do what is right; I'll follow His light.
His truth I will proclaim.

It's so simple, yet it's perfect for defining who I am, or rather what I'm trying to become. To sum it all up, I know who I am; I am a child of God!
If at this point you are reading this thinking it might be more appropriate if my parents named me Molly, you might possibly be right. I am a full blown Molly Mormon, and I'm not afraid to admit it, because it is part of my identity. I don't know where I would be without the gospel in my life. Actually, I do know. I would be wallowing in the pit of despair, because the gospel is what makes me happy. It makes me happy to know that I am a daughter of my Heavenly Father who loves me, and I love Him. It brings me so much joy to know that I can return to live with Him again someday, if I am proved worthy to do so. But most of all, it makes me happy to know that God wants me to be happy, and He has given me all the reasons in the world to be so. The Church just makes perfect sense, and it answers all of my questions. I wish that everyone could feel how I feel about the church, because if they did there wouldn't be any doubt in anyone's minds that the church is true. I'm so thankful for it, because having it in my life makes all the difference.
I may not know what I'm majoring in yet, if my favorite animal is a giraffe or an octopus, or even which political party I belong to, but that doesn't really matter in the long run. Just as long as I know that I am the daughter of the divine, and that He has a plan for me, then I know I can be happy and "be still and know that [He] is God" (Doctrine and Covenants 101:16).
Life is good, be grateful for everyday, and live life as if the sun were always shining!
Love,
Syd