5 Reasons Why You Should Love Twitter

I'm on twitter a lot, maybe you could call it an addiction. I don't know, but if so I would call it a healthy one because twitter is my outlet. It's my place to share thoughts and send positive messages out into the world. 

Here's 5 reasons why I love twitter and why maybe you should too:

1. Twitter makes you think 

Every situation I go through, I try to create an inspirational thought or lesson I learned from the experience and I tweet it. This is a great way for me to have an outlet, it's kinda like free therapy in a weird way. It's also the perfect way to keep track of all the amazing things I learn, while inspiring me to think out of my box throughout the day. On top of that, I've found many things I have tweeted out have impacted others as well. I'm constantly trying to make a simple lesson out of everything that happens in my life. It's fun, it's rewarding, and I love the opportunity it gives me to think optimistically about every situation. If I'm struggling, I'll tweet the positive side of what I'm facing and it's a great reminder to me that it's not as bad as I sometimes make it to be.

2. Twitter allows you to make incredible connections 

I have made so many friends on twitter who inspire me daily. Some I have had the incredible opportunity to meet, and there are still so many I have yet to have an in-person conversation with. To be honest, as weird as it may sound, my life has been impacted and changed by a few of these people. The right people have been sent into my life at the right time and shared their stories at exactly the right moment I needed them! It's so fun to find those connections that can help me in my personal life as well as connections for opportunities for upcoming project collaborations.

I have a dear friend who has the same mission and vision in life that I do. We love catching up on each other's lives as we have only met twice. It's like we have been friends forever though, and we provide each other with encouragement and help all the time. It's such a blessing!

3. Twitter is a place to spread your message {#ShareGoodness} 

Twitter gives me a space to create a positive environment in my own little cyber world. You can literally inspire the world through your simple but empowering messages of goodness. Your impact could be huge, but you will never know if you never try. I have seen some pretty amazing experiences and opportunities come my way because I was sharing goodness. There is so much negativity and wickedness around the world. It's amazing what a little goodness and light through a message can do for individuals. 

I also love sharing my spiritual thoughts and inspirations on my blog, and Twitter helps me get my thoughts and posts out for more to see. I love spreading positive messages because you never know if someone needs the words you are willing to share, the moment you share them! 

4. Twitter helps you gain better writing skills (really in all communication)

I have found that because I'm writing so often throughout the day, I've really found myself thinking before I'm typing. My grammar has improved tons and I'm more aware of how I write all because of simple tweets. The more you practice something and do it frequently, it becomes a part of you and you become an expert in the field. I'm no where close to an expert but reading and typing messages provides me incredible amounts of opportunities to practice. Usually you write how you speak, so Twitter has also helped me in speaking my ideas as well as expressing my thoughts. The more I tweet, the stronger I feel I am at communication. 


5. Twitter allows you to become an expert at getting your point across  

Tweeting makes you think, with only 140 characters to express your thoughts with, you start to become an expert in getting your point across. Sometimes I have big ideas or stories to share and I have to reevaluate my wording to make it fit. For me this is essential because journalism is my major. It's a great way to learn how to make things short, concise, and to the point while to instantly capture the readers attention.



I'm very aware that many don't like twitter. They haven't found their need for it. However, I'm so grateful for Twitter. I realize how silly this sounds, but Twitter has had a huge impact and positive light on my life, and for that I am full of gratitude. I am grateful for every follower I have. I am grateful for the girls that message me for help and advice. I'm grateful for the constant encouragement I receive.

To any girl (really anyone for that matter!!!) that ever feels alone, lost, broken, lonely, or just needs a friend, never hesitate to direct message me. I love offering my advice and wisdom that I have gained over many life experiences. If you're going through something or just want to talk - reach out! I want to empower girls with strong self-esteem and confidence daily and I have found Twitter to be the perfect way I can do just that!

Sunday Spiritual thoughts on Christ

Today was an incredible spirit fed day. I love those days! I love making connections and learning about my Savior. I wanted to share some random but spiritual thoughts and connections that I have made today.


We sung Hymn #191 today in sacrament. I had never really studied or pondered upon these words as closely I did today. The text was written by Eliza R. Snow who was the 2nd General Relief Society President and the sister to Lorenzo Snow who was the 5th President of the church.

Behold thy great Redeemer die, A broken law to satisfy. He dies a sacrifice for sin, He dies a sacrifice for sin, That man may live and glory win.

While guilty men his pains deride, They pierce his hands and feet and side; And with insulting scoffs and scorns, And with insulting scoffs and scorns, They crown his head with plaited thorns.

Although in agony he hung, no murmring word escaped his tongue. His high commission to fulfill, His high commission to fulfill, He magnified his father's will.

"Father, from me remove this cup. Yet, if thou wilt, I'll drink it up. I've done the work thou gavest me, I've done the work thou gavest me: Receive the spirit unto thee."

Verse three hit me hard. "Although in agony he hung, no murmring word escaped his tongue." Christ so willingly came down to go through the greatest sacrifice that will ever be known to man-kind and yet he didn't even murmur once. About a month ago I had bronchitis. It took all my energy and I thought I was going to pass out every time I stood up. I was drained and physically exhausted. It was painful, it was hard, and it was frustrating not being able to do the things I could normally do because I just didn't have the strength. I'll be honest, I murmured over my simple burden.

Murmuring is a quiet or depressed reflection of ones circumstances. It is expressing discontentment with the situation you are in. 

I wasn't loud or expressive to those I was around but I was in bed wishing for the illness to go away. I remember praying about the pain I was in asking so fervently for it to go away. I know my trial was so small compared to the pain and trials that others are faced with, but I can't even fathom the sacrifice Christ so selflessly went through for you and I. His willingness to save the world and bring hope unto the lives that may never love or accept him. The pain he must have experienced and he didn't murmur one word. Wow! That's incredible and I stand in awe of the selflessness Christ carried with him everywhere he went. He was always willing to submit his will to the will of the Father. He showed admiration of Heavenly Father by magnifying His will. 

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As I was studying my scriptures today, I studied 3 Nephi 17:1-10 where Christ is appearing to the multitude of the people at the temple.

Verse 1: Christ tells the people it's time for him to leave
Verse 2: Christ tells the people that he can see they are weak and they can't understand His words and teachings right now.
Verse 3: He tells the people to go home and ponder about the words he has spoken, for he will come again. He also tells the people to ask Heavenly Father for understanding.

Ashley's Perspective: Learning in school and understanding the scriptures has always been a struggle for me. I struggled to read the scriptures for awhile because it just didn't come easy and I had no idea what was going on. I've been able to personally experience for myself what it means to ask Heavenly Father that I may understand the things I am studying. The more I pray for help, prepare my mind to learn, and then I take action and study and dig deep, the greater of an understanding I have. If you have ever felt like learning is difficult for you, I testify that with deep faith and sincere prayer for help, you can start to understand and comprehend the things you need to learn. Heavenly Father wants you to learn the scriptures, He wants you to do well in school, so test this principle for yourself.

I think pondering is the greatest thing you can do for understanding.

President Henry B. Eyring said: "Reading, studying, and pondering are not the same. We read words and we may get ideas. We study and we may discover patterns and connections in scripture. But when we ponder, we invite revelation by the Spirit. Pondering, to me, is the thinking and the praying I do after reading and studying in the scriptures carefully" ("Serve with the Spirit," Ensign Nov. 2010).

Verse 5: Christ was about to leave and he looks around at the multitude of the people and sees them in tears. appearing as they wanted to ask him to stay a little longer. 
Verse 6: He says I am filled with compassion towards you
Verse 7: He tells the people to bring all those who are sick or burdened to come hither and he will heal them.
Verse 8: He saw that their faith was sufficient, it was because of their faith that Jesus heals them.
Verse 10: All who were healed and who were whole bowed down and kissed the feet of Jesus. 

What do I learn from this study? That Christ is so selfless, he was about to leave and he saw the faith of the people and he let his heart full of charity and compassion pour over. Who can you help? Who can you bless and have more compassion for? He didn't just have compassion for one or two, he had compassion for all the multitudes. I want to become like Christ and this is an attribute I want to evaluate in my life more this week. Also in these scriptures we learn how important faith is. It was because of their faith that Christ remained a little longer to heal the sick, pray for the people, and to heal the children.

10 things Mary Kay and Missionary Work have in common

After being a Mary Kay consultant for 5 years and going to meeting after meeting, I learned a lot! Mary Kay has many great lessons and ideas that have really impacted my life. While I no longer sale Mary Kay, I wanted to compare what I learned in this company and apply it to what matters in my life RIGHT NOW! Missionary work is on my mind all the time, so I thought this would be a fun post. This post applies to both full time missionary work as well as every day member missionaries. 

Missionary work is one of the greatest blessings we have, yes I just said blessings. It's hard work, but it is so rewarding!!! Pray for opportunities and then start putting these ideas to work!

10 lessons I learned from Mary Kay that apply to missionary work

1. Go for the no's - talk to everyone

Mary Kay - There is this book called "Go for the no" that my directors had me read. It's a great book!! In Mary Kay, recruiting people to join your team is all a number's game. In Mary Kay, you are encourage to talk to everyone you see, everywhere you go! You never know who needs the Mary Kay opportunity in their life. You don't know who hates their job or needs an opportunity to make new money. The goal is to establish new relationships with the cute girl in line at the grocery store. You can't prejudge either. You don't have a clue what the other person is thinking or if they would be willing to come get a facial or host a party for you. The goal is to just talk.

Missionary Work - Missionary work is a number's game too. While I'm still learning about missionary work and I have a far way to go, it doesn't sit well with me that we are teaching others to count baptisms or to see how much success we can have. I personally don't believe missionary work is about success, I don't believe conversions are the main event of missionary work. While missionary work can fit in perfectly with being a number's game, I don't think it should be. Go for the no's - not just because of statistics and if you get this many no's that you will get this many yes's. To me that doesn't feel right! But go for the no's so you have the ambition to talk to EVERYONE you see. Go for the no's so you aren't prejudging because you have no clue who needs the gospel in their life. You have no idea how broken someone might be and how much they have been praying for the message you have to offer them. I personally believe that missionary work is about the people and the love they need in their life - NOT about the numbers and the statistics that prove to be true. {Just my two-cents for what it's worth}

2. Establish deeper relationships

Mary Kay - In Mary Kay, you're so busy with your three priorities, the principles that the company was built upon {God first, family second, and career third} and sometimes this can be the only thing you live for and focus on. To be honest, this was probably the thing I disliked the most about being a consultant. I LOVED the idea of having a business where you put God first and making money came last, however I disliked that they encourage Mary Kay to be your driven force in all things. I found myself calling friends to plead with them to hold a party just so I could reach a goal. Thank goodness I had such supportive friends and they were so willing, but I often found myself feeling so guilty that perhaps they felt used. Ever since I have stepped down from being a consultant, that is the one thing that allows me to just feel free, when I call up a friend, I'm not calling them JUST so I can reach a goal and make more money, I'm calling them so we can strengthen our friendship. I'm calling them so we can get together and catch up.

Missionary Work - So it is with missionary work. If missionary work is your goal right now and you have great intentions to invite others to come unto Christ so they can find that peace and happiness that is in your life - be sure that isn't your ONLY focus. What if they aren't interested right now? What if this isn't the time for them to join or come back to church, can you accept that? Do you have enough faith to trust that Heavenly Father sees your efforts and it's not about you, but about them? Are you going to stop being their friend after you find out they aren't interested, or will you love them and serve them anyways? No matter who the person is or what they believe in, they NEED friends, we all need friends! Don't make others feel like they were just a "project" or that they were doing you a favor. Make them feel as if they are so important you will love them to the moon and back no matter what the end result is. This leads to the next point. :)

3. Imagine everyone is wearing a sign that says 'make me feel important'

Mary Kay - Mary Kay Ash, the founder of the company and recognized as one of the most outstanding business women was an expert at people building. It was a passion of hers to make others feel good about themselves. She loved you no matter who you were or what your background was. She would always say "Imagine everyone has a sign around their neck that says 'make me feel important'." She was an expert at writing thank you notes, giving prizes, recognizing others for their hard work, and just loving them. When you were in the presence of Mary Kay Ash, you would undoubtedly leave her space feeling better about yourself, with an extra spring in your step. People mattered to her more than anything. Everyone secretly wants to feel like they matter, no matter who they are! We all want love and attention. Her focus in her business was the people!

Missionary Work - When trying to bring others to Christ, isn't the first thing they need is the ability to feel of God's love. The greatest way this is going to happen is through YOU! You have the greatest power inside of you because you know how real God's love is! Once His love gets inside of you, you can't hide it! The light of Christ begins to shine forth and everyone in your presence will begin to see it and feel it. Lift others up! Lift their burdens, love them! It is through the simple acts of love and kindness and just noticing others that they will feel of your love for them and right through that they will recognize the love their Heavenly Father has for them. When you make others feel important, you automatically are bringing others unto Christ.

4. Always look your best

Mary Kay - I was always taught to dress professional in Mary Kay. The company has a motto, "dress for the position you want, not the position you have." Something about dressing up makes me feel successful and I am inspired to work harder. People are attracted to people that look like they care about their selves  This has nothing to do with beauty, glamour or being conceited - this has to do with hygiene and confidence. 

Missionary Work - I believe this can be applied to missionary work too. whether full time or as a member missionary, you are an ambassador of the Lord. It's important that we represent the church in the best light. When others see you, you want them to earn your trust. Looking your best will help those you meet to be able to listen to your message because of the great first impression you have made. Dressing up may not just be for the investigators, when you're dressed nicely you tend to have ambitions of working harder. It's also respect to the Lord, you're doing His work and you love Him, what a great way to show humility.

"Appropriate dress and grooming will help you earn respect and trust. Your appearance is often the first message others receive, and it should support what you say. Always strive to present a professional, dignified, clean, and well-groomed appearance. Never allow your appearance or your behavior to draw attention away from your message or your calling." - Found HERE


5. Have materials ready to hand out at ALL times!

Mary Kay - You are strongly encouraged to have a mobile office in your car so materials can be accessed at all times. Think about it, you are out meeting so many new people on a daily basis, you never know what materials you might need and you will want to sign up and be on your team right there on the spot.

Missionary Work - Start keeping Books of Mormon, pass along cards, and reading materials with you or at least in your car. Carry a small Book of Mormon wherever you go. You never know when you'll be prompted to talk to someone. Heavenly Father loves preparation, and when you show you are prepared that is when He will bless your efforts and you will see miracles happen. Show Heavenly Father you are willing to serve Him and when you put in this effort, He will recognize it and you will be blessed.

6. Don't ever give up, don't ever loose hope

Mary Kay - Mary Kay Ash would always say "Never give up, because you never know if the next try is going to be the one that works." Another one was "The moment you're ready to quit is usually the moment the miracle happens." Sometimes it would get frustrating putting in so much work, so much effort, and having success at the forefront of your mind at all times and then not seeing anything. But isn't patience a virtue? Mary Kay taught me a principle that blessed me life in many, many areas - this principle is tenacity and endurance. My directors encouraged me and pushed me past what I ever thought I was capable of doing. This hope gave me a purpose and a reason to get out of bed each morning.

Missionary Work - Missionary work is based off of faith, yes? Let me hear a big astounding YES! There will be days or weeks where you are praying for opportunities at missionary work. You will be working hard and doing everything that you can to show God that you are willing and ready and sometimes you will see it immediately and other times you won't. But you can't stop believing, you just CAN'T. When the going gets tough and the signs start to fade away and you are left with no proof that what you are doing is making any difference - that is an opportunity to put your faith to the test, will you pass? Always keep going and never give up, it's worth it!

7. You are planting seeds

Mary Kay - I was always taught in Mary Kay that they have to hear the marketing plan over and over, again and again until they really decide to do it. It's rare that someone would sign up for Mary Kay right there on the spot. But each time you share the Mary Kay opportunity, you are planting a seed and one day when the timing is right for them, they may decide to join and it's because you were planting the seeds. A huge beautiful garden of flowers doesn't just happen instantly, it's usually one seed at a time that makes a beautiful bed of roses. One thought, one marketing event, one party, one product, one interview later and all those seeds then turn into a recruit. In Mary Kay, this can also be referred to as layers.

Missionary Work - Missionary work has many layers too. First the person you are trying to befriend may or may not already be a member of the church, so it's possible they have felt the spirit before and that would be a seed. Often in missionary work, many seeds have to be planted before a conversion happens. Sometimes these can be small seeds and sometimes they have to be huge seeds. Depending on the individual, some people need more time, more water, more sunlight, more tender care than others before they are willing to come back or join the church. Being a friend is a seed, sharing your testimony is a seed, talking about church is a seed, inviting them to an activity is a seed, teaching them to pray is a seed. Sometimes you will see the miracles of these seeds right away and sometimes you have to patiently wait and one day the miracle will happen. The focus should be on the seeds, not on the result because you have no idea where their heart is and what Heavenly Father has in store. It's NEVER about the numbers, it's about wanting others to feel the peace and happiness you have in your life because of the gospel.

8. Maybe she needs me poem {OR he}

Mary Kay - In Mary Kay, this poem "Maybe She Needs Me" was shared with me and I fell in love with it. We have the knowledge of the gospel, something that can bring so much hope and happiness into another persons life. The point of this poem is to once again teach that we shouldn't prejudge because we have no idea who's life we could change by the career opportunity that we have to offer.

Missionary Work - There are SO many individuals out there who are going through life broken. Many people are searching and praying for something more, you don't know who needs the message that you have to offer, so why not offer it to everyone? It can often be selfish NOT to share! Why not get rid of you fear, put your trust in the Lord and open your mouth because who knows if you just might be the answer to somebody's prayer!

9. Mental bath only for full time

Mary Kay - Mary Kay directors STRONGLY encourage you take a daily "mental bath" to get you to the successful destination you are striving for. 

This stands for...

B - Bookings (the goal is two bookings a day - a facial, a party, or an interview)
A - Affirmations & Attitude
T - Training (30 minutes of Mary Kay inspiration and education)
H- Hotline (reporting to your director the results of your day)

Missionary Work - How do we apply this to missionary work?

B - Bookings

It is a goal of a full-time missionary to keep bookings on their schedule often so they always have someone to teach. The more they make this happen in a day, the better.

For those that are not full-time missionaries, this can be done by being actively involved in missionary work in other way. Create bookings by going out with the missionaries or by making an effort to visit someone on a daily basis. Apply this one how you see fit!

A - Affirmations and Attitude

When I think of affirmations for a missionary, I'm thinking of D&C section 4, or saying the missionary purpose aloud. Even the Young Women's theme could be applied here! 

Attitude is essential for a missionary. You have to be happy and humble if you want any results. Heavenly Father cares about your attitude so much and it is your attitude that will take you to success and happiness. Also, attitude is contagious. When you're happy and the light of Christ radiates, others are going to want what you have!

T- Training

So many ways to apply this - scripture study, conference talks, spiritual music, gospel books, Preach my Gospel. There are SO many resources for to learn more about the gospel and all of these resources will help you stay in tune with the spirit.

H - Hotline 

The most important way we can relate the hotline to missionary work is PRAYER! It is essential that we call up Heavenly Father often, asking Him for opportunities, blessings, thanking Him and even just keeping the connection open to receive revelation that will be helpful to us.

We could also relate this to reporting to mission presidents, zone leaders, bishops, or even friends that are holding you accountable.

10. Tracking, planning, and scheduling 

Mary Kay - It is essential that you plan and track every detail if you want your Mary Kay business to grow. If you don't know the numbers and the results, how will you know if you are succeeding or not? How will you know what's working and what needs to be adjusted? You have to write down the results so you can see where your going and what direction your headed. Planning is just as essential. When you plan out your day (every single hour) you get things done, that's just how it works because you know things will be off if you mess it up.

Missionary Work - In preach my gospel, planning and scheduling is strongly emphasized. Planning holds you accountable. You have to plan out your schedule and you also have to plan out your lessons and what you want to teach and when. Planning helps you to set goals, if you don't have a goal you're not going to get anywhere. Heavenly Father loves when you set goals and He feeds opportunities to you when He knows what you're trying to accomplish. 

8 Ways to make a difference in your parents lives

1. Write them a letter thanking them for the simple things they never get thanked for.

2. Leave uplifting compliments around for them to find.

3. Serve them! What do they need or what would speak to their heart?

4. Take them to lunch! Spend quality time with them. Care about what they care about.

5. When they ask questions or show concern, thank them! Do you know how many individuals long to have parents that show they care? Respect their questions and tell them the whole truth, they deserve it.

6. Practice patience. Parents aren't perfect. They didn't get a manual of how to raise you when you came along. But I do know they did the best they could. Be patient with where they are at and with what they do.

7. Be the example. If there is something you wish your parents were doing that they aren't this time in their life, be the example for them. Their watching you and you have the power to change their heart and have incredible influence on them.

8. LOVE them! Tell them you love them often. Show them you love them. Text it, tweet it, share it for the world to see. But just make sure they never have to question the love you have for them!

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I believe we all have different roles to play at different times in our lives. 
An experience happened that made me realize how 
important my role is of being a daughter.
I love my parents more than anything. 
They are such kind hearted individuals who love me to the moon and back.
I can feel it. I've witnessed it. They show it by their questions and concerns.

The role that I play as a daughter is vital.
What if you were sent to your parents for a purpose?
What if we stopped expecting that our parents were only here to teach us?
Instead what if Heavenly Father designed this life in way where the children should be doing more teaching than the parents?
Just imagine with me for a moment,
that your role as a daughter or son is more influential on them, than their role is on you.

I believe the example you set as a son or daughter has an indescribable influence 
that is unspoken of but is always there.
The role you play of speaking words of encouragement and giving compliments has greater
impact than can ever been seen with the eye.
Being a daughter or son is so simple but something 
.that has such deep and incredible power.

Stop for a moment and think about everything your parents have done for you! 
Whether you feel they did an incredible job or you blame them for the problems in your life now, they have given you a gift. A gift of life. A gift of knowledge. A gift of experience.

I'm not the perfect daughter, but my heart longs to be.
I don't say the words "I love you" enough.
I'm not patient 100% of the time, but I'm aware of what needs to be done to fix it.
I don't serve enough. I don't give enough. 

The letters I have written and the acts of kindness I have performed on occasions
display the deepest evidence to me that my role as a daughter has an 
impact, possibly the GREATEST impact on their life.

Parents tend to create their thoughts, their worries, and their burdens 
based upon their children.
The role you can play is so extremely important!
Whether you realize this or not, your parents look up to you.
Their greatest pride and joy comes from the events that happen in your life.
What are you doing to show how much you love them and how much you care?
Just maybe you were meant to play a bigger role in their life than they did in yours!

Tender mercies are not merely by coincidence

Tender Mercies come in the most unique and incredible ways. 

Not long ago, something was heavily weighing on my mind. 

I felt slightly dreary as I tried to make sense

of the thoughts and feelings I was experiencing.

I walked through the isles of Deseret Book,

searching for something, anything that could put my mind at ease.

A few books caught my eye, as I started glancing through them. 

Just then two ladies who knew each other but hadn't seen one another

 in awhile exclaimed with joy how good it was to 

randomly cross paths. 

As these books really had my full attention, I was standing close to them.

 I could overhear everything they were saying to one another.

One woman was complaining about a few things she felt were burdens in her life.

The other one offered a few words of wisdom and sympathy.

As I listened to their conversation, I just felt this overwhelming joy come over me.

At that moment, I didn't have one bit of doubt in my mind that Heavenly Father was aware of me and knew exactly how I felt.

 He longed to ease my mind, even if the thoughts I was having were slightly silly, they mattered to me and so I knew they mattered to Him.

Then I heard one of the women speak the exact thing I know Heavenly Father 

would have said to me.

They were words that most likely hadn't stood out to any other person in the store,

they were probably trifling words to oh, so many

but I can't even explain what those words did to my heart and soul that day.

It was the greatest experience to witness these two women non coincidentally crossing 

paths for just a moment to play the role Heavenly Father would have them

 play for each other,

and then for me as the innocent bystander became so blessed by

a conversation that wasn't directed at me, but Heavenly Father

allowed it to bless me.

Yes, I will forever count that moment as a tender mercy. 

I am blessed, oh so very blessed.

Heavenly Father is in every single detail of my life and of yours.

He loves you, He cares about you.

He longs to ease your weary heart no matter how silly or how extreme you feel

your trials or burdens may be at this time.

Let Him in!

Look for Him and His tender mercies in every moment,

because I can promise you with every piece of my heart, that 

Heavenly Father is in every detail of your life. You are His child. 

He longs for nothing more than for you to be happy in this life and for all

of eternity.

Write down your tender mercies and your testimony will grow,

you will start to see He has been there all along.

Memories and Reflections from 2014

2014 was incredible. 

A lot of what happened in my life this year is so sacred and wouldn't be 

appropriate to write it all out here on the blog. 

But I can promise you that more stories are to come.

I LOVE sharing my stories and experiences with you, why?

Because it's obvious that I am not perfect. 

I have been through a lot of experiences and my favorite thing to do is

find people I can relate to. 

I love knowing that I go through stories and different situations for the benefit of others.

I want to be personable, relate-able, 

and I want others to think "because of you, I didn't give up."

Vague or not, here are some moments that I can share with you about 2014 ...

Best moment of 2014...
The best moment of 2014 for me happened in May. I did something that I hadn't in quite sometime. It was a moment in my life that I will never, ever forget. Nothing can replace that feeling that I felt or the happiness that I experienced. It was such an incredible milestone in my life that helped me to be where I was by the end of the year.

The hardest I laughed in 2014...
Oh goodness, I laughed A LOT this year! That's putting it lightly. I have to be honest, I remember sharing some personal and dating stories with my sister and we can laugh about them for hours. I remember laughing so hard I was crying at one point, and that rarely happens. I don't know what I would do without my sister. She is the greatest and I love that she is always willing to listen and laugh at my crazy stories. 

Most embarrassing moment of 2014...
I met with my stake president this year and I was crossing my legs the entire time. I have the worst circulation ever, I swear. I go to stand up and I can't feel my foot. It was way past the tingling phase. (I like to call it "sprinkles") It was so numb I couldn't  feel it, I couldn't move it, nothing! So I couldn't even seem to stand on it and I kind of just wobble out of his office. Who knows what he was thinking because I walked in there just fine. That was one experience I still laugh at myself about.

I'll share another embarrassing moment with you because I really LOVE my readers... 
I was on a date, it was kinda like a blind date and we go to one of my favorite restaurants ever. There are umbrella's by the door that we were near as we were waiting for our turn to be seated. The guy picks up one of these umbrella's, he pops it open and it puts it over my head. Now I want you to picture this with me. It's crowded, I mean CROWDED. There were two hostesses seating people, there isn't even room to stand in this big open space. So here he is holding this umbrella over my head as two girls walk out of the ladies room, I'd say they were about thirteen years old. Very loudly my date says "please move, the princess needs her space. Please don't get near her." I'm sure my face is bright red after this moment, everyone just starts starring at us. Keep in mind, I had met this guy maybe 15 minutes earlier. I get this guy was trying to be nice, but dear guys, please remember there are better ways. That's not the end though, it gets worse. We finally get taken to our seats and as the waiter is taking our order, my date turns to the waiter and says "Is she not the most beautiful girl you have ever seen?" The waiter looked speechless and didn't know what to say. My date then proceeds, tell her that, go on give her a compliment. This guy does not have a quite voice, I notice a few heads start turning. I'm turning bright red once again just dying. The entire night he kept starting conversations with our waiter that in my opinion were very bold. That was a long night, a very long night.

A day in 2014 you'd live over and over...
The day I competed in the Day's of '47 Pageant back in April was INCREDIBLE! Competing in that pageant and even taking home the title meant the world to me. I've always wanted to be a role model to others in the most incredible way. That day I was so nervous and stressed. Behind stage I was pacing back and forth, all the girls kept checking on me asking if I was okay. I was praying and pleading in a new way than I had before. I truly believed that Christ was going to be out on that stage with me. I prayed that I could remember what I had rehearsed, I prayed that I could say the words He wanted me to say. I prayed for strength, for acceptance in His will, and for grace. I remember saying this prayer back stage before going on for the first phase of competition where I would talk about one of my ancestors that I look up to so dearly. I remember feeling something I had never felt before. I honestly felt like I knew her, I felt like she was right beside me, I felt like I wasn't giving everything I needed to the Lord after learning all that she had gave up and sacrificed. It was because of her that I was where I needed to be where. I wouldn't be me and I wouldn't get to compete on the conference center stage that day if she hadn't have had the integrity to keep pressing forward on the path that she was on, even after losing several children. I always remember feeling Christ carrying me, everything was so stressed about didn't matter. The words Heavenly Father wanted said just flowed out of my mouth in a natural way. After that day was over, I knew without a doubt that this was His will for me. 

Favorite song of 2014...
My favorite song that came out this year was by Colbie Caillat 'Try', so absolutely perfect for what I try to teach girls every day.

The song that helped me tons this year is by a christian band called 'Group 1 Crew', found here.

The playlist that I relied on most this year was this one. Every song seemed to lift me up from what I was going through, I just one day stumbled upon it, not by coincidence either.


Best movie of 2014...
I have to say "Into the Woods" even though it just barely made it into 2014. While I'm so angry about how a few scenes played out and I want to know what on earth was going through the minds of a few characters, that was one powerful movie that had my attention the entire time. There are so many lessons that can be learned from this movie. All the lyrics, all the lines, all the characters made up the perfect film that so many morals can be created. I'm working on analyzing this film so I will get back to you, stay posted!


Biggest lesson learned this year...
Heavenly Father is ALWAYS there no matter what. He is always preparing you to receive the revelation He has for you. Some will be big disclosures that was far from your mind and you would least expect and other times He will share small amounts of info that will help you with the course you are already on. But you HAVE to keep that line of communication open at all times by praying constantly and by living righteously because revelation is a privilege. Prayer was the greatest bl

Favorite holiday memory of 2014...
Easter Sunday in church was the greatest holiday of the year. I remember so much of it like it was yesterday. Kim Hansen and Paula Camp were the sacrament speakers at church. They shared thoughts on the Savior and thoughts on the sacrament that put the life of Jesus Christ in a completely new perspective for me. That was one sacrament meeting where I couldn't stop crying, I had come to know Jesus Christ in a way I had never known Him before. My love and testimony for the atonement grew so strongly that day.


Best thing you did for someone else in 2014...
Because I don't know how others rate the acts of kindness that I do, I can only go off of feelings that I felt and carry with me. I do believe that we often help people in ways that we will never be aware of or ever be able to understand so I can't share those moments with you. So I will share the two that come to mind. 

1. At the beginning of this year I was having a really rough day. I prayed, asking Heavenly Father where to go and what to do to overcome these feelings. A name immediately popped into my mind; Leeila Manwill, my adopt-a-grandma back when I was in the Young Women's program. I hadn't seen her for at least 7 years. I got up and went to the store to get flowers to take over to her. We sat, laughed and talked for at least an hour. We had so much to catch up on with each other. God needed me to serve her that day and it made me forget about every sorrow I was facing. 

2. I was sitting in church one day and looked back to see a girl sitting alone. I motioned to her to come sit by. She got up and sat right next to me. The second she sat down my eyes filled with tears. I had never felt Heavenly Father's love so strongly as I did in that moment. I knew Heavenly Father was proud of me for listening to the spirit and looking out for others, but I don't think that's why I was crying. I knew without a shadow of a doubt in my mind that Heavenly Father loved this girl, he loved her so much. She was a gem and a ruby in her eyes, God wanted me to know this. The love He had for her out poured in the spirit I felt with her next to me. God loves all of his children no matter who they are. This girl is now very dear to me and is often on my mind because of that experience that day.

When I'm seeking the love for Heavenly Father, I feel it so much clearer when I am serving others than ever when I am focused on myself. 

Best conversation you had in 2014...
I remember asking a few people the same question. It was a question I was obsessed with at the beginning of the year and I loved each of their responses. The responses I received always seemed to be given at the perfect moment I was open to learning more.

A dear friend and I were able to have tons of super powerful, life changing conversations this year. The impact this friend had on me through the responses that were given was just what I needed to be shaped into the girl I am this very moment. The more we talked, the more we opened up and the more impact this person had on my heart.

Best piece of advice you received in 2014...
My dad is a great advice giver. I try and keep our lines of communication open because I love talking with him. He kept telling me over and over again this year to stop looking for what I was looking for. If I live my life right and turn my heart to God, everything I need will be led into my life. I'm learning just how true this is!

My New Year's Resolutions

First let's talk about 2014! It rocked! Nothing can ever replace the lessons that I learned, the changes that took place, and the relationships that I gained and strengthened. I said 2014 would be my year from the beginning and it was. Not in the way I had hoped, but in a way that was so much better than I could ever envision. 

I can't count the times that the Lord was right by my side, guiding me in the direction and showing me that He wouldn't leave me. I had some guardian angels take me to places I was supposed to be and lead me into some incredible light!

New Year's has always been one of my favorite days. I just love fresh starts and new beginnings. I I love making goals and figuring out how to become my best self. I love planning and believing for a brighter future.

2015 is going to be incredible, I just have this strong feeling. I can't wait to see what's in store.

10 of my New Year's Resolutions:

1. Eat healthy (only 3 treats a week)

2. Work on something related to personal progress at least two times a week

3. Cook at least once a week, learning new recipes to prepare me for my future family

4. Thank you cards once a week

5. Write in journal no matter how tired I am - never miss a day!

6. Go to the temple once a week

7. Scripture study for 45 min. every morning BEFORE leaving

8. See the good in every single person. Don't even think a negative thought about someone because I have no right to judge.

9. Drink more water - LOTS more!

10. SERVICE is going to be my main priority this year! I am going to serve, serve, serve my heart out! I plan on making visits once a week to random people, I will send SHINE mail to many people, I will raise awareness to things that matter to me, I will visit the woman's prison, I will volunteer more. I want everything I do to be based on giving everything I have to offer! It will be a pay-it-forward year that is for sure! It will all be under the direction of the Lord and what He wants me to do in the moment.

See if I tell you them, I'm more committed, right? So I plan on being held accountable.

Happy New Year's!!!