Life has been a whirlwind since I left in August. Things are so challenging, and I struggle on a daily basis, but then I remember that I have the most amazing support team!
I've learned a whole lot about myself this year already, and it has already been such an incredible growing experience. The first batch of exams are over, and here comes round two.. you know me, I'll be losing sleep for the next two weeks until they're over.. actually, who am I kidding, it won't ever stop... but.. I'm learning a good lesson. It's called: BALANCE.
Balance by definition is "an even distribution of weight enabling someone or something to remain upright and steady." I struggled a lot last year with the concept of balancing school and social life... it tended to lean very heavily to the school part, and the social part was up in the air. I did, somehow, manage to score myself the perfect best friend, miss Laura Stoddard, she helped with the balancing.. but we studied together too. This year, however, I really wanted to gain new friendships, so I got out there. Our ward used to be GINORMICOUS, but then it got split so it's tiny. Before it split though, I went to a FHE activity and there I met my newest friend, Joshua.
A little about him: Josh is incredible! He's such a considerate friend. He is always there to lend a hand, to be a shoulder to cry on, someone to laugh with, and... he's an incredibly gifted artist. He plays 7 instruments... crazy I know! and he's a very skilled writer, hence his major: English. I've had the privilege of spending a considerable amount of time with him over the last several weeks, and he's taught me so many things. He's one of the reasons I know God loves me so much.
I'm just living and learning. Sometimes things get too hard to handle, and that's when we need to humble ourselves and ask for help. In church the other day there was a quote read. President Gordon B. Hinckley said, "if life gets too hard to stand, kneel". Probably my new motto for life. I just love the blessings!
I have the most incredible support system. Not only do I have my family, community, and best friends from Canada, but I get my American support team too! So many people are rooting for me, and I feel their love. It keeps me going when I feel like giving up, so a shout out to all of you! Thank you so much!
I've made a goal to go to the temple once a week. Laura goes with me, and we take turns driving. Yes, I do drive in the city! I'm basically a pro! :) Stick shift is sometimes stressful, but it all works out in the end. Anyway.. yesterday morning after the temple we were driving home and I was REALLY craving a burger. Take into consideration it's only 9 o'clock a.m. So... we went to Wendy's and no luck, they don't open until 10. We were so upset, but we thought we'd try Carl's Jr. just incase.... and... they were open! We got juicy burgers and fresh, hot fries. It was the best breakfast I have ever eaten in my life, no lie.
The most exciting thing is going to the mailbox and finding a letter. I have heard great news from a certain Elder Jacob Van den Akker, and he's doing amazing. I'm so proud of him. I miss him terribly, but when I have a down day I pull out those letters I've gotten and read them. I love the spirit missionaries have, they always have the right thing to say. I love the changes that are made in their hearts. All in all, they make me pretty proud.
That's life... there have been some super crazy events happen, but I'm too bored of writing, and my head hurts, so I think I might just take a nap, or do calculus... it's my favorite class in school. Everything just... makes sense. Never before have I experienced a burning love for math.. this is where Don McMurray was right, "if you like fun, and you like math... take calculus" Oh such words of wisdom! :) That was for you Carlene.... :) I love you all so much, thanks for reading!
