Good Times

The most sweetest weekend! So, Friday night, I earned my black belt recommended and spent the remainder of the evening at Chevy's with a group of friends in celebration. I didn't stay out very late, as I had to get up early to go to a cheer competition my nieces are involved in. I did chat with Carrie in the parking lot after Mark dropped us off at our cars. It was really nice to talk to her one on one, and in person! She really was an amazing roommate! We chatted about what was going on and what are plans coming up were! She will be finishing school this semester and will be facing the world head on pretty soon! She's excited and scared all at the same time, and I can't say I blame her! :) Love that girl!

I woke up nice and early to get ready for the competition and for the Temple. I had talked to a few people Friday about hitching a ride with them to the Temple, so, I planned on meeting up with them after the competition. The girls were absolutely adorable! Anna Marie and Isabella are the most adorable little cheerleaders ever! We took a few pictures together and it was such a great feeling to be around them! I just loved how they would come up to me and give me a great big hug! I miss working with children and seeing all their smiling faces! Anna Marie is the youngest, and she did such a great job, as well as it being her first competition! She was all smiles!!!

Going to the Temple two times in three days was truly a remarkable experience. I have gone four times in one week before, and the experience was intense. I learn so much when I a attend the Temple, whether it be about what we are learning, or if it is something in my life that I am seeking answers or directions for. I talked with Nancy a lot on Thursday night and was able to share some of the insights with Michelle, Bishop, and even Brooks a little. I gained some wonderful insights from those I talked with.

This week has gone pretty quickly! I am hoping to get everything done on my list!

erika j

Black Belt Whaaat???

So, yes! Tonight, I am testing with intent to promote to Black Belt Recommended, so I am really excited! Also, my beautiful neices will be competing in a cheer competition tomorrow! Woo hoo!

erika j

I'm all moved! Errrrr...Mostly

Well, I moved all my big stuff that required Brett's and Brooks' truck on Wednesday, and the rest on Friday I did on my own with my car! Our apartment was cleared out and I was kind of bummed about it. It was so empty! There were a lot of great memories in that ol' apartment and I am going to miss my roomie, Carrie. Here is a young woman who thinks she is not very service oriented when really, she is an amazing example of service!

For the past year and one-half, she has helped me in many aspects of life. She has taught me about humility, compassion, and charity. Carrie doesn't even realize the impact she has made in my life, nor do I think she realizes her true potential! As much as I have teased her about how "well" she works with kids, she really is going to be an amazing wife and mother. I don't know how I would have made it through this last year without her around making sure I make it safely to my bed at night (I come home way too late)! I am going to miss her and wish her the best with her studies and in the search for an Eternal Companion, and that she has lots of kids!!! HEH!

My room is in shambles! I have boxes everywhere and clothes in piles from pulling them out of bags and boxes trying to find something to wear! I am going to spend some time on it later this week, if not this weekend for sure! I do have a trail from my door to my bed, so that is the important thing! I am excited to be living in a house of girls, as it is a new experience for me on many levels. I am hoping to save some money living there, but we will have to see how the drive goes! It's an easy drive to work and to the gym, but karate is a bit away. It should be fine though! I am planning on getting into awesome shape for my black belt test in December! I have been working on it, but I am comitted to maintaining and acheiving my goal of physical fitness!

erika j