Love to Love & Smile When You Can

My past three months have been nothing but an up and down roller coaster. And one I can't really seem to get off of. Now your probably saying in your head  "life is what you make of it", and I will be the first to agree with you. However, times will be rough and tough so that's why I say "Love to Love and Smile when you can."

When I think of where to begin updating, I should first acknowledge my lack of progress on my goal to post once a day. That flew out the window pretty fast. But I'm trying to get back on track and this time how bout I make a goal to post once every two weeks?  I think I'll have a little more success that way.

Ok, now for the fun stuff..
My first semester of college is coming to a close.. finally. This means that finals are right around the corner(sigh) and then I get to go home! YES! Living in Provo has been fun and a great growing period for me. But who can argue that Arizona is the best place to call home?  Not me! So after next semester I'm planning on going back home where I will apply for Dental Hygiene school. I couldn't be more excited!
Being away from home, I'll admit, has been good for me. I've learned things I otherwise might not have learned staying home. The first thing that comes to mind is how much I love my family. I'm not quite sure what I did to deserve them, but their mine now and I'm not giving them back. They are a HUGE blessing in my life and my best friends. I couldn't ask for anything more!
The second thing that comes to mind is that I am proud to be a Mormon. Every scripture, prayer, meeting, and experience teaches me something  new and shapes me into the person I want and need to be. The true joy that comes from living the gospel is a feeling that simply can not be put into words.
My third thought..  Utah is f-f-freezing! I miss the 100 degree weather and the non-slippery roads because ice just doesn't exist in Arizona. Driving in snow absolutely terrifies me, to the point where I call my parents panicked and crying.. {it's ok to laugh}. But in all seriousness, I'm a true Az gal.

And now, the moment I've been waiting for..  The update on my missionary(:
My handsome missionary, Elder Sorenson, is serving in Durban, South Africa 7000 miles away from home.  He's been out for almost a month now; which in my book is a success that I've made it thus far. He reported to the Johannesburg MTC on November 13th. He is speaking English and also a little bit of Zulu(or what I like to call click). As I expected, Elder Sorenson is doing great, loving the work, and enjoying every second of it.
Alex and I met our senior year of high school and when I saw him I had to find out who he was and get him to take me out.. that is exactly what I did.  In what may be the most typical search for "that cute boy", I turned to social media: Instagram.  Romantic, I know(:  But hey, I'm happy with where it took us.  2 months later I kissed him first and 11 months later I'm writing this about him, my missionary. But as a quick side note, I am honestly so grateful for him. He has been my best friend through thick and thin and every day he continues to amaze me. I'm one lucky gal.

I think that about covers it.. But I'll wrap everything up with some pictures because everyone loves pictures, right?

Food for thought: Matthew 19:26 "But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible."

Love you all,
First daughter of Five,
Lo

Elder Sorenson Building A Garden

Elder Sorenson With The Kids

My Wonderful Family Just Being Silly

My Last Photo With My Elder Before He Left