The crazy life of Rachel!

2011 was epic! Watch out 20-twelve!!!

2012-01-12T16:51:00.017-07:00

Wow! I can't believe I am actually posting something! This seems to never happen anymore! But I thought, hey, why not? It's a new year! 2011 seemed to have flown by sooo fast! I can't believe I am going to be 25 this year! ekkkkkk! So I better remember my 24th year!

A lot of things have happened this passed year. Some good, some bad, but overall 2011 was ggrreeaaattt!! Recently, a friend asked me what makes me happy. I thought about it for a minute and realized, it's people. People make me happy! Spending time with my amazing family and friends is what brings me the most joy. So here is a quick overview of some of the wonderful things that happened to me in 2011 and some of the amazing people I got to spend them with!

*Graduation!

Oh hey, I graduated from college! It was only 6 years in the making... but it finally happened! All of my family was there (which was fantastic!) and my BFF Rachel Smith was there too! It was sure a great day! One to remember for sure! Weber State, Weber State, Great Great Great!!!

All of my mom's side of the family!

Dad & Marina

With Grandma Jenkins

Rach & Rach showing off my honor cords!

*Texas!

Me and some friends ventured on down south for a little vaca in September! Ezra was in San Antonio for Army training and we went to visit him for a couple days! We hadn't seen him in almost 6 months, so needless to say we were all SUPER STOKED to go! It was me, Cristi, Tatum, and Dave and we all had a blast! But now it's good to have Eze home again!

We got some pretty legit friend pics on the boardwalk!

At dinner right after I threw up at Six Flags...

The crew with Tweetie! Love Cristi's thumbs up btw.

Me, Ezra, Cristi and Dave about to dominate The Rattler.

Oh Ez, we missed you!

Ah! Scary lion!

*Europe!

So you know how I graduated college? Well, my super nice papa took me on a 10 day jaunt around Europe! I got to pick anywhere I wanted to go, so I tried to fit as many countries in as I possibly could. We started in Prague, hit parts of Germany, Austria, and Switzerland! It was fantastic! The only downside was after being in Texas for 4 days I was home for less than 12 hours before I had to repack and go on vacation again. I know, I have such a hard life. :) But I was a little traveled out by the end of the trip! But we had so much fun!

We're on a plane! About to leave the states!

Swiss Temple! I love this pic!

Europe photo collage!

We had TONS of tasty treats!

At Prague Castle!

Me and pops in Prague!

*New BFF's!

Don't get me wrong, I love ALLLL my friends! But I was able to meet some new ones earlier this year! Around May all of the singles wards along the Wasatch Front were split and reorganized. I was devastated! I loved my friends and I loved my calling! I DID NOT want this to happen, so in turn I was being the biggest baby about it for the longest time! It wasn't until someone gave me a verbal slap to the face that I changed my attitude about it. And I am so glad I did because it was one of the best things that could have happened to me! I met my sister wives Leah and Makenna! (Leah and I literally are sister wives. There are scriptures that proves this!) These girls are seriously the greatest! I've known Makenna for about 15 years (wow, that makes me sound old), but over the summer is when I really got to know her and we became legit friends. And Leah and I have become besties super quick. She is the RS Prez in my ward and I remember looking at her and thinking, "Oh great. She's skinny, tall, blonde, and beautiful. I secretly want to hate her, but I can't!" ha ha I love her. She can seriously get me to do anything! (sing karaoke, bake, sing in church, get up at 5:30 in the morning to go to the gym!) I adore them both! So lucky to have them in my life!

Showing off friendship bracelets I got them in Texas!

lol! I love this pic!

Leah and I making homemade pizza!

One of our MANY girls nights!

Leah and I at our ugly sweater party!

Awkward friend pictures!

It's hard to write about all the things that happened. So here is a super quick list!

*Papa got married! Only 5 years in the making! :)

Me and my boys looking snazzy!

*Lots of summer BBQ's!

*Yogotogo almost daily! Love frozen yogurt, yep even in the winter!

Mom and sisters first frozen yogurt experience!

*Lots of karaoking!

Girls after a night of singing our guts out!

*Indiana Jones Adventures

(post coming soon!)

*Dating! (I am always open to more potential suitors! ;))

*Started playing soccer again for the first time in 12 years! It's exhausting and awesome! I love it! Plus I get to play with some of my besties so it's great!

Our first team name and adopted mascot!

*Concerts!

I have been a slacker concert go-er, but was able to go to a couple great shows!

Maddi and I at the Sara Bareilles & Sugarland show! Love!

Rach and I rockin' out to Bono at the U2 show!

*Themed Book Club!!

Sounds odd, but it is awesome! We dress up and make food depending on the book we read! Love it!

'Beauty' book club!

*My BFF Rachel spoiled me for my birthday (which I loved!) she took me for a night on the town! Thanks Rach!

The big 2-4!

*Broke my wrist snowboarding.

I wish I was doing something awesome, but I was only getting off the lift... ya... I'm sooo cool like that!

There is a cast on my arm...

*Spending almost everyday with my wonderful friends!

Me, Tatum, and Cristi!

Friend pyramid at the park!

Michaela, Rach and I at Sundance!

The Adventures of Rachel and Rachel!!

2011-07-26T11:58:00.007-06:00

Three years ago I met my friend Rachel Smith while working at Sego Lily Spa! We hit it off since day one. Literally! While she only worked there for a little over 3 months I knew immediately that she and I would be good friends, and to this day it has remained true! We have so much in common, including our names and natural hair color! We love the same TV shows, books, music, so on and so forth. Pretty much if I don't see or talk to her for more then a couple of days, I kinda go insane.

Well the point of this blog post, beside pay homage to my BFF, it is also

to let you know some of the exciting things that have been going on in my life. And a lot of these events have included Rachel.

To start off, a couple days before the big U2 concert, my friend Jessica informs me she she is selling tickets for $20! Seriously! Tickets were selling for over $100 where we were sitting and we got it for only $20! So of course I call Rach and tell her the screaming deal! And to my delight she and her dad were totally on board. So the 3 of us had a little evening out on the town. We went to get a bite to eat at the tasty Paradise Bakery, waiting for about 45 mins to get on tracks up to the stadium, and then went to see The Fray, Bono and the Edge rock our faces off!!

Besides being absolutely FRREEZING, the concert was AMAZING! I was so glad I got to experience a U2 concert with my bestie and her papa! Totally worth the 20 bucks!

Waiting for the show to start! Look how excited we are!

We thought the stage looked ridiculous, but it sure

ended up blowing our minds when it lit up!

See what I mean....

Just another fun and crazy night with my BFF!!

Next on the list of Rachel and Rachel nights out, comes my most favorite time of the year, that's right, the international holiday known as my birthday! Rach knows that I love attention and birthdays and planned accordingly! She surprised me with dinner at a great Italian place at The Gateway called Biaggi's. Yummy food, bad customer service, although it was hilarious. I highly recommend the canoli's. Actually I recommend the canoli's anywhere you go... Next she took my to Barnes and Noble to buy me a book. We walk in and she pretty much says pick any book you want. While that is super exciting for any book lover, I have to be honest in saying it was a little overwhelming. I have a problem with indecisiveness. I get anxiety when trying to decide which place to eat let alone having a whole store of possibilities. But don't worry, I made a decision. :)

We then got some cookies and chocolate at the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory and ate them while watching Selena Gomez frolic around Europe in Monte Carlo! Yep, that's right! Selena Gomez....

It was a good night. Rach definitely spoiled me that is for dang sure! Thanks friend! :)

Dinner!

It tasted as good as it looked!!

She gets that excited about most food!

My girl Rach. She's the best for sure!

Chocolate....yummmmmm....

And last but certainly not least Rach is able to make me do things that no one else can make me do. No joke! Sometimes just by asking, sometimes by threatening me. Either way she gets the job done! This occasion was no exception. Threatening came in to play here. We recently joined a book club! A themed book club mind you, where we dress up depending on the book we read! It sounds kind of lame, and it probably is ha ha, but we love it!

The threatening came in when we were deciding what to wear. She made me wear (although I secretly wanted to) beautiful gowns to book club. We read Beauty by Robin McKinley (not my favorite) and dressed as princesses! My fellow book clubbers did an amazing job with treats and decorations (shout out to Karen and Anna woot!) and it totally set the mood! I can't wait to see what our next meeting has in store! I'm sure Rach will make me dress up in some crazy outfit again, and honestly, I'm stoked! :)

The book club crew! Yes, we all dressed up!

Rach and Rach and Schmenrich... the unicorn!

I Gradumicated!!!

2011-07-17T19:04:00.005-06:00

Me and Mike, my radio co-host for the last 2 years!

So a crazy thing happened, I graduated college! Can I get a woot woot?! It was so exciting and emotional and crazy and all sorts of other things. Pretty much any major emotion came to me at some point throughout the day! I am the type of person who makes a big deal about special occasions. Birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, etc. etc... So I was really excited when my entire family and my BFF came to support me at my graduation.

I have been working my behind off in the grown up school since I graduated high school, and it is so surreal to know that I am done! Finally!!

The morning started off with no hot water, which made for a miserable shower!!!! Then on to Commencement where I almost passed out! (That was a good time. Note to self, eat a hearty meal before the next big occasion.) and we did the whole move the tassel from one side to the other thing. Pretty much almost started crying at that point.

Then later in the day was Convocation. Where I officially became a graduate of the College of Arts and Humanities. I have my degree in Communication - Electronic Media with a minor in Criminal Justice. Yep, I'm legit! Later that night my dad and marina and I went to eat at Ruth's Chris. Omg best steak ever. Seriously like ever!!! Amazing!!

It was so much fun to be able to celebrate with my family and friends! I am so grateful for all of their love and support. It would not have been possible without them! Here are some pics from the big day!

Me and my little sis!

Me and the sibs!

My mom's side of the fam!

Me, dad, Marina, and Grandma J in the background.

We got better pics with them, they just weren't on my camera! :)

RachAel, me, and Anastasia. Aka radio peeps.

Meygood friend Kara, whom I met in the most boring class ever!

My BFF Rachel Smith was a trooper and sat

through the entire drawn out process! And I totally love her for it!

And last but certainly not least,

me and my beautiful mommy! Love her!

The Justin Bieber Experience

2011-04-01T00:24:00.004-06:00

Hello all!

Long time no see! There has been no new blog posts from in me months, because, well... you see... I'm graduating from college in 3 weeks and I have been a little preoccupied. Sorry!

But alas, I did make time to bring you this special treat. I have many loves in life and among those loves are my friends, playing guitar, and Justin Bieber. And what happens when you combine those 3 loves? PURE MAGIC!!

So here is the KWCR Justin Bieber Experience. I'm not gonna lie, it's pretty sweet. This was filmed in 1 take with myself on lead vocals and guitar. We all dressed in J.B. attire as well, because let's face it, it's a must when playing one of his songs.

So without further ado, KWCR does "Baby" aka the Justin Bieber Experience. Enjoy!!

Where is Rach Cakes?

2010-11-09T15:20:00.002-07:00

So, I am SUUUCCCHHH a slacker. Actually, I have been so super busy that I have completely neglected this thing. Somedays I don't have time to finish my homework, let alone post a blog. And I know I keep saying I am going to be better, and one of these days I have every intention of keeping that promise, but for now this short little update is all you get.

Pretty much I love my life! Things are going really well (for the most part)!! School is coming to a close (one more semester then I'm outta there), my church calling is a lot of fun (gotta love being in the RS prez), my friends are AMAZING (ALLL of them), and my family just cracks me up!!

My 2 bestest friends just had their birthdays, and the celebrations were awesome!! Gotta love the good times with Smith and MJ around! Sooo much fun!

School is difficult, I mean I'm a senior in college, it really shouldn't be a walk in the park this far in. But it is almost done, which makes me feel better. And getting 100% on a criminal courts exam sure makes a girl feel better about her efforts! :)

My little sis Michelle is playing all sorts of sports, which of course makes her sporty older sister super proud! I am trying to teach her everything I know. In soccer, basketball, and maybe even softball over the summer! She's such a mini me sometimes and I love it!

Not to mention work is in there too! Like I said, super busy, but I am always able to make time for the things I care about, family, friends, temple visits, basketball games! :) Gotta love life somedays right? Even though I am super stressed, and an emotional wreck sometimes, I am super duper happy! WOOOTT!!! :)

Bubba and a birthday, and momma and a birthday!

2010-10-03T15:04:00.007-06:00

So this post is REALLY old, but that is ok.

In my little Rachel world, birthday's are a pretty big deal. Like A BIG DEAL!!! So when sister was turning 10, that's right 2 whole hands, I of course planned a big surprise celebration.

I put together a big scavenger hunt for her to go on, I even got all of the fam to help out with it too. We met at different locations and give her certain things. Let's just say it was pretty much awesome.

Then it all ended with a surprise party that all her friends showed up to. Here are some pics to take you along for the ride with us. Happy Birthday Bubbs!

One of the stops was get ice cream at

Artic circle where Mel met us.

The boys met us at the Build a Bear workshop

where she got to pick out a little outfit.

This is the map I made to show her

where the treasure is.

She found her treasure!!

All her friends showed up for a

surprise swimming party!

My beloved mother, who is AMAZING btw, had a pretty big birthday. Yep, the big 5-0! While she pretty much refused to have a birthday party, I said it was required.

Me, being a dutiful daughter, planned and executed a nice birthday party for her... I know... I am so nice. :)

But I think it was a lot of fun. We got to mingle, eat food, and just have a full out blast. I also wrote my mommy a song. :) I am not the best singer, but I do enjoy writing. So here are some pics and a clip of the song I wrote. I hope you enjoy it!

Happy birthday to my mommy! I love you so! :)

Me and my beautiful mommy!

Mom and Laurel could not stop laughing!

Too funny!

Zach was really excited!!!

I had a birthday shout hooray!!

2010-08-20T17:31:00.008-06:00

So as most of you know, I make a big deal about my birthday. Ok maybe I make too big of a deal about my birthday, but I love it! And I love that I have people who understand the love I have for my birthday!

This year was great! I got breakfast in bed, got my car decorated, went to Boondock's with family and friends, and then went to a marvelous dinner with my besties! Really I couldn't of asked for a better day. I am so blessed to have such amazing people in my life! Thank you to you ALL!!!

Jason decorated my car, although at the

time I had no idea who had done it.

Preston won tickets playing Deal or No Deal

Zach, Prest, and Chelle.

Cristi and Ezra! Ha ha they crack me up!

Getting ready for laser tag

KARA!!!

That's just how I roll!

Ezra was nice and gave

Michelle all his tickets.

Me and my wonderful cousin Rachelle!

The fam at Boondock's!

See that? Yep, I totally got the high

score of 90 on the double shot.

And then won all these tickets!

Go Karts!

Summa Fun!

2010-08-20T15:16:00.008-06:00

So I have been really bad at posting things lately. I said I would be better... but I lied... This summer has been crazy that is for dang sure. But I mean that in the best way possible! So now before school starts next week, and I become a hermit, I thought I would do ANOTHER couple catch up posts! So here you go!

Over 4th of July weekend, Rachelle came to visit and me, Michelle, and Cylee all took a jaunt over to Layton park to check out the festivities. After a failed cartoon attempt of us, tattoos, and snow cones... wackiness ensued!

The girls getting a little bit crazy!

Cousin Love!

Um... we paid 20 bucks for this?

We all look the same!

We thought we were funny!

We got tattoos!

So this is pretty much what my summer has consisted of. Hanging out with my friends EVERY NIGHT! But it has been awesome! We found some bubble gum and then proceeded to shove about 7 pieces each in our mouths! Ha ha! good times!

And... on take number 20 we finally got

a pic of all of us blowing bubbles!

Kass and Allie!

And now here are some other pics... Zach and Preston doing what they do best... Me, Lex, and Ash playing surprise face. Me and the pops headed on down to SLC for the BNL concert! And my good friend Amy cakes getting married! LOVES IT!!

No comment is needed for this picture...

Just Lex creepin in on Ash!

Surprise face!!

Bare Naked Ladies concert!

Me and Pappa at the show

Me and Ash cakes on her 1 year anniversary!

Me and Amy Sue on her wedding day!

Hayles, Ash, Amy, and Me!

Love you girls!

Cali... remodeling...and ALI VINCENT!!!

2010-07-17T23:18:00.007-06:00

Ok, I am going to combine some big things into one blog post to try to catch up on the times I've done this summer....

First of all, I had a crazy spring semester of college! I am getting closer and closer to graduation (woot!!) so I really had to buckle down to concentrate on school instead of playing all the time. And it paid off! Totally got a 4.0 with 5 classes... I was pretty stoked. :)

About 2 weeks after the end of the semester came the opportunity to head to California, and of course I jumped at it! I needed a break and was lucky enough it get it.

Me, Mel, Michelle and Mom all headed up to North Cali - Napa Valley, San Fran, and Oakland! It was awesome! It had been over 10 years since I visited the Bay Area and was so happy to go back! We had an awesome weekend filled with a temple visit, the Jelly Belly factory, and touring San Fran! Here are some awesome pics to document our visit! Can't wait to go back!

The girls in Oakland!

After our Jelly Belly factory tour. Yum!

Me and Bubbles!

Oakland Temple! So pretty!

Lombard Street in San Fran!

Walking up the curviest street in the world.

The Bay

At the Golden Gate Bridge!

Am I the only one that thinks of

Full House when I see the bridge?

Now, as most of you know, I am a HUGE Biggest Loser fan! I have Rach Smith to thank for that! She totally got me hooked. Anyway, I get a random call from Rach at 8 in the morning one day, and she informed me that Ali Vincent, the first female winner of the Biggest Loser, was doing an impromptu work out in Salt Lake City later that day! Of course I told her we HAD to go, and luckily she agreed. So we trucked on down to the SLC to meet Ali and do an awesome circuit with her! I loved it. We got to talk to her, had some awesome one-on-one time with her, and got to pick her brain on workout tips. Since then we've read her new book "Believe It, Be It", which

got for free for buying some shoes. It was awesome! WOOT!

Me and Ali!

Rach and I after our workout!

Last but not least, we decided to remodel our front room. We had carpet and nasty old tile so we put in new pretty tile. It looks REALLY good! Here is a couple of pics to show me beating the old tile to death! Yay! SO FUN! I love hitting things! :)

I am CRAZZY!

Like I said, I like to hit things!

SUGARLAND!!

2010-07-16T23:31:00.007-06:00

Me and my BFF Brooke went to see Sugarland in concert a couple months ago. That's right I said MONTHS...Like I've said before, I have really neglected this blogging thing. But I wanted to share this with the world! It was such a good concert. THE BEST I HAVE EVER BEEN TO! And that is saying a lot since I have been to A LOT of concerts!

Jennifer Nettles and Christian Bush put on a great show. They really know how to keep their fans involved in the show. And Jennifer just has this energy that is so infectious. She was going crazy the entire show. They played all the good hits with some awesome covers and even some songs from their upcoming album!

You know how some artists sound terrible live? Not Ms. Jennifer Nettles, or J Nett as I like to call her. She has an amazing voice puts so much emotion and feeling into every song she sings. That is why she is such a good entertainer!

LOVED IT!! I can't wait until they come again! I will definitely be buying FRONT ROW seats! AMAZING SHOW!!! Thanks Brookie for an awesome night!

P.S. I am going to put a TON of videos on here... that way you can enjoy them ALL! :)

"Stay"

"All I Wanna Do"

"The Incredible Machine"

Me and Brooke!

Funny faces!

We're cute!

Being an example!

2010-06-22T17:30:00.004-06:00

I know I promised a blog letting you know what I've been up to... and that is still a promise i intend to keep, but right now I want to share something else with you.

The other day for family night, my mom decided to show us some videos on YouTube. My mom sometimes shows us some really random things, so I was a little hesitant to watch these videos. But about a minute into the first one, I was already crying. These videos were released by the Church, and even if you are not a member, they can still bring perpective to what is truly important in life.

We need to be examples to others, always showing love and charity whenever we can
We need to find joy in the circumstances we've been given and make the most out of every situation.
We need to know that there are good things to come, and we need to be patient in knowing that things will get better.

I hope you will watch these videos I have posted. They really are great. They make me want to be better and hope I can help someone else if they are having a difficult time. :)

Where have I been?!?

2010-06-15T13:54:00.002-06:00

I know it has been WWWAYYYY too long since I have posted anything cool! I am just so darn busy this summer, but in a good way! :) I will for sure be posting some things soon! Just to give you a little tease of what I've been up to:

-Interning at Smith Knowles law firm
-Hanging out with my peeps
-Meeting and working out with Biggest Loser winner Ali Vincent!!!!
-Runing/Walking The Race for the Cure
-Redecorating the house
-Many bonfires and marshmellow roasting

And that's not all! There is so much more! So just be on the lookout for some fun stuff to come! :)

Chuck melts my heart and he can sing?!

2010-05-12T13:42:00.006-06:00

Ok, so I have been telling people for the last year and a half to watch a show called Chuck! Why? Because it's amazing! Or as Captain Awesome would say, it's well Awesome! (Yes, there is a character nicknamed Captain Awesome!) Some have listened to my pleading... some have listened only when OTHER people told them to watch it (Rachel!), but pretty much I am obsessed with this show. I even wrote a research paper on it for my Communication Theory class. "International Super Spy: The Art of Interpersonal Deception Theory" (Don't judge me...) But this show is awesome and totally underrated. It combines, action, comedy, romance, and so soooo much more! I even got my dad hooked on it!

Ok so I may have gone a little overboard with this Chuck thing... like I said I am obsessed. Ha ha I mean I am posting a blog about it after all! These videos will show you just what the show is about in the new season! :)

But the purpose of this blog is not to encourage all of you to watch this wonderful show (which you SHOULD!), but it has more to do with Chuck himself a.k.a. Zachary Levi. I have a huge crush on him, but this crush only deepened when I found out he could SING!! And sing well nonetheless. As an obsessive music lover, it made Mr. Levi sexier in my eyes. :)

So I thought I would share this with all of you! So please, watch and listen to the smooth vocal sty lings of Katherine McPhee feat. Zachary Levi. Like I said, it melts my heart! :) And please watch Chuck Monday's on NBC! You won't be sorry! The End!

Poor... poor Nashville! :(

2010-05-06T11:55:00.004-06:00

While I only lived in middle Tennessee for about a year, I still consider it home. I still visit (not as often as I'd like) and know my old stomping grounds by heart. When I heard about all the crazy flooding going on, I immediately called my friends and family to make sure they were alright. Luckily, they got through it with minimal damage, but there are many in the greater Nashville area who were not so lucky.

At least 29 people are dead across different states from the storm. The Cumberland River in Nashville rose more than 6 feet in some areas, and it will be months before the damage is finally able to be fully assessed.

Many homes are unlivable, and there is damage beyond repair to many Music City landmarks! The Opry is damaged, the Country Music Hall of Fame is underwater, and I can't even imagine all the priceless memorabilia that has been ruined. It breaks my heart to see my city. Yes, my city (and surrounding areas) like this. I wish there was more I could do to help.

My friends have been working for days helping people clean up their homes; trying to get things as close to normal as possible. If you haven't seen what is happening, check out this news report:

Nashville Crisis

Or here are some pics and videos of all the devastation.

If you are willing and able, please donate to the effort to help clean up Nashville.Go to Hands on Nashville for volenteering, and Nashville Red Cross to give monetary donations. It's unbelievable how much help is needed. Please pray for Nashville and those affected by the storm.

To all my friends and family in Tennessee, I love you and stay safe!

This pic was taken by my cousin (non-cousin?) Jacqueline

in Franklin Tennessee.

This is the Ryman Auditorium where

in the Opry is held.

After...

The Opry Land Hotel

Downtown Nashville.

The Hard Rock is located next to the river.

I've eaten here quite a few times.

My favorite mall... The Opry Mills mall...

is now underwater.

LP field where the Titans play

Free hugs...? FREE HUGS!!!

2010-04-24T16:56:00.005-06:00

A couple weeks ago my friend Jordan Bailey asked me to take part in the time honored tradition of giving free hugs at general conference. I know it sounds like an interesting concept to stand on a freezing street corner for hours on end giving random strangers hugs, but in all honesty, it was one of the greatest experiences I have ever had!

I loved it! I loved more than I though I would! It was absolutely amazing! People were constantly asking why we were doing it, and Jordan said it best saying "We do it to bring smiles to people's faces!" Which is true! Sure there were some protesters who weren't too happy about it, but mainly it was to give people joy.

It was amazing to see and talk to people from all over the world. Sure it sounds weird and kinda crazy, but... I don't really know how to describe it... it was just an awesome experience.

There were people I didn't know, running at full speed, almost knocking me over giving me hugs. There were little kids barely tall as my waist coming over, missionaries giving us high 5's, and I even got to hug some really cute boys! :) Over all, I thought it was great! We even recruited some random conference goers who were happy to give out free hugs!

Here are some pics from the awesome experience. I hope they convey some of the joy all of us were feeling on that great day! :)

My sexy free hug pose!

"You can never have too many free hugs!"

Random girls who volunteered to hug people.

Day 1 was cold!

Day 2 was a little warmer!

Me in action giving a hug!

We met people from all over the world!

These lovely ladies were from the

Polynesian Cultural Center in Hawaii!

Social Media... how it runs our lives!!!

2010-03-25T15:38:00.003-06:00

Hello all!

We watched this video in my Communication Theory class. I found it to be very interesting. It just goes to show how technology has come to run our lives, and that social media is not a fad. Some of the statists it lists are very surprising, while some are not so surprising. Please watch!! I think you'll find some of it shocking, but also interesting. :) Some of things it lists make me sick. Just thinking about how much we all use social media! I am a victim of this as well, but maybe I will cut back more now that I've seen this and go for a walk outside, or read a book. No wonder communication has declined and we're now run by technology.

Some stats I liked are:

It will take 13 years for TV to reach 50 million users, 4 years for the internet, 3 years for the iPod... Facebook added more than 100 million users in less than 9 months! iPod apps hit 100 billion downloads in less than 9 months!
If Facebook were a country, it would be the 4th largest in the world!
Ashton Kutcher and Ellen have more Twitter followers than the entire population of Ireland, Norway, and Panama!
Studies have shown that Wikipedia is more accurate than Encyclopedia Brittanica!
24 of the 25 largest newspaper chains have reported record declines in circulation!

2010-03-20T20:04:00.008-06:00

So once again I've neglected the blog! I know... I know... I am terrible! But never fear, I have pictures to show you! I don't really have any news to bring you because, let's face it, my life is pretty much consumed by school and the like. Every once in awhile I am able to squeze in some time to hang out with friends, and go to movies and such, but overall I just do homework and study. And I am happy to report, I am doing pretty well in school! I guess all my stressing has paid off... well at least so far!

So right now I am taking a break from the three research papers I have to write this semester to inform you all of what I have been doing lately... THERE ARE A LOT OF PICS!! :)

Played hands up stands up with the girls and worked on some so called yoga moves
Went to the free Dashboard Confessional concert awhile back and met up with some friends.
Took some pics at some temples!
Hung out with some peeps
Went to the Jazz game for Melvin's birthday
ANNNDDD had an awesome girls weekend with my little sis Michelle, or "bubbles" as I like to call her. The parentals were out of town and we partied!

We like hanging out with the creepy guy...

With some peeps!

Rachel trying to help me with the "L" yoga position...

Hands up... stands up!

Michelle, Rachelle, and I at the movies!

Alexa and I are friends... lol!

Jaqueline, Me and Kirsten at the Dashboard show!

I heart Chris Carrabba!

Breadsticks at the Pizza Factory!

Happy Birthday Mel!

Provo Temple

At temple Square!

Sisters!

We had so much fun!!

I am a hero!!!

2010-02-12T01:52:00.003-07:00

So as many of you know, my birthday is pretty much the holiday I look forward to ALL year! It is a HUGE deal for me! I used to leave notes in the breakroom of the spa letting everyone know weeks in advance that my birthday was coming up. My fam, Kellie, Rach, and MJ all know how much I love this holiday, and gave me great birthday celebrations this passed year.

Well my friend Isaac created a group on Facebook for me to get my birthday known as an internationally holiday, if you haven't done so please join. He also created this video, which pretty much explains it all. YOU HAVE TO WATCH IT! Zach and I were literally crying because we were laughing so hard.

And this is why we need to make my birthday an internationally known holiday! Look how many people I can inspire! Thank you!

ALOHA from the islands!!

2010-01-22T11:43:00.010-07:00

Aloha! So I was informed the other day by my good friend Rach Smith that I have really been neglecting my blogging. And it's true, I have been. I am ashamed.

Life has just been SUPER busy. Not that I am making excuses or anything... that is just the reason for my tardiness.

But here you go! Here is the much anticipated Hawaii blog post.

A couple of months ago my father gave me the option of getting presents for Christmas, or going to Hawaii. While it took me all of about 2 seconds to choose the islands, I still wanted to get others input on the matter. And it was unanimous... HAWAII HERE I COME!!

So for 10 glorious days after the semester ended, Papa, Marina, Christian, Nick and I hit the islands. It was awesome! Some very much needed R&R!

We were on Maui, staying at a luxurious hotel, where I was privileged enough to receive my own room! That's right a King size bed in paradise all to myself! What more could a girl ask for? :)

What did I do to pass the time you ask? Well, I read... if you can believe it! I actually finished 2 books during my stay. Also, I was very lazy! :) And it has always been my dream to surf. And it came true on this trip! Although it was painful... but my skin getting rubbed raw from the awesome surfboard was well worth it!

We also did the Road to Hana, a traditional Luau, submarine dive, and I even buried some treasure for my friends to find the next time they visit. Oh, and of course we hit the beach! Woot!

So here are some AWESOME pics! I hope it makes you feel like you were all there with me...even though you weren't! ;)

There are a TON of pics, but it's to be expected from my time on the islands right? Aloha!

This is what it was like when we left Utah!

This is what it was like when we landed!

Me and nature!

Awesome sunset

Me and the boys (plus the cute surf instructor)

after our adventure!

The black sand beach is my favorite beach ever!

Look at my pretty flower

I actually took this pic! Gorgeous right?

The gang!

Me and Papa!

All of us at the Luau!

On the sub! Yes, we are blue.

But no, we are not sad!

On the Road to Hana!

Waterfalls... the water was FREEZING!

I'm a natural!

Action shots! :)

I only fell once! Ok... that's a lie,

but still super fun! :)

2010-01-01T18:31:00.001-07:00

2010-01-01T18:28:00.001-07:00

Where have I been?

2010-01-01T16:31:00.007-07:00

I'm sure you're all wondering where on earth I have been right? I know it has been FOREVER since I've posted. It's not that I haven't had anything to report, because believe me... I HAVE! I've just been busy! So here is the lowdown....

My besties had their birthdays...
Halloween...
I finished the semester with straight A's (A- counts as an A right? :)...
Had mutliple Thanksgivings...
Had a blast with all my friends...
Looked at the pretty lights at Temple Square...
TIME OUT FOR WOMEN WITH THE FAMILY!!!
Oh... and I went to Hawaii....

And SOOOO much more!

Well, here is a little video diary of my comings and goings. I will post on my AMAZING Hawaii vacation next! :)

For those that get the e-mail, if it doesn't work just go to the source..

Rachelthered.blogspot.com

ALASKA!!

2009-10-11T16:17:00.010-06:00

So I may have been slacking a little on posting this blog. I mean its almost been 2 months since we've gone, but here you go! Here is the Alaskan cruise blog.

The whole crew went! Me, Zach, Preston, Dad, Marina, Nick, and Christian. It was fun! We had lots of good food, including the CHOCOLATE BUFFET! We hit some comedy acts, and a juggler, and went on some awesome excursions! We went to Ketchikan, Skagway, Juneau, and Prince Rupert BC! It was fun!

Now, keep in mind, there were 2 other cameras also taking pictures, so I don't have all of them, but here are A LOT of pictures.

We had a blast, even though it was sooo cold! We went to the Lumberjack Olympics, a glacier helicopter ride followed by dog sledding, we went to see icebergs, and even went on the longest train ride ever! But still fun!

At Pike's Market in Seattle.

Marina and the boys.

I was really excited!

Me and Zach were afraid for our lives!!

Bored waiting for the comedian!

Again...

again...

Preston looking cool in his shades!

It was windy!

Zach is on a boat!

Look I got a pet towel! I was pretty excited!

Lumberjack Olympics!

Preston and Dad waiting to get on the helicopter

On the helicopter! I didn't get sick like last time! Yay!

Pretty glaciers!

Dogs for dog sledding.

Marina and Dad

I WAS FREEZING!!

Me and my iceberg friends

They were so blue!

They used to use this to clear snow off train tracks!

Zach and Preston are Alaskan explorers!

I almost got ran over by a train...

well not really... but I was scared!

OMG!!! CHOCOLATE!!!

I was feeding my new pet towel some chocolate!

Prince Rupert! Yep, I am a crazy driver!

Yep, we're in Canada!

Preston looks excited to be in Canada!

They were scared of the tsunami!

Hello Canada! Nice to meet you!

Krafty Kayla!

2009-10-04T13:51:00.004-06:00

Hey everyone!

So as you know I have a friend named Michaela! She's pretty much awesome, if you can't already tell from all my previous posts!

Anyway, she is super crafty, and she is now sharing all her talents with you! Well, I am sharing them with you, but they are by her...well you know what I mean...
Go to http://kaylaskraftroom.blogspot.com/

There you will find all her creations for sale! You can customize them anyway you like!
Have fun and enjoy! I know I do!

Cheers!

Help Us Win

2009-10-03T11:03:00.004-06:00

As some of you know, I love music! And I love to play and write music. Now I'll admit, I am not very good at it sometimes, (especially singing) but I still love to do it!

Recently I had the opportunity to play some songs at my family wards small BBQ. Here is part of one of the songs I've written.

It's called "Help Us Win". I have never sang with a microphone before so it is pretty hard to hear me because I wasn't close enough. Oops... my bad. But here you go. I hope you like it. The lyrics are below so you know what I'm saying. :) (fyi the video picks up at the second verse)

Help Us Win -

written by Rachel Jenkins

Verse 1

The fight it seems may never end

One's alive another one's dead

but when will it stop?

Your mom, your dad, your sister your son

who will have to be the next one to fight

for the chance to be free again

CHORUS

All the people around the world are calling to you

Who will help us change a life will it be you?

So stand tall

Don't give up

Don't give in

Just be the one

To help us win

Verse 2

Look at all the people who

who haven't survived, but who have tried

to no success.

And all the others who

who've made it through it may be because

because of you

Repeat Chorus

Bridge

To bury a friend is the hardest thing you'll ever do

So just give

Your time, your money, your heart let's help them live

Repeat Chorus

Summer 2009

2009-09-09T15:43:00.007-06:00

Hello! Now, I am sure that a lot of you are wondering where I have been all summer! I have neglected the blog, but only slightly, because you see, I have been having an awesome summer! So much better then last summer! Not that I didn't LOVE visiting Tennessee and Russia last year, but this summer has been great!!!! I've had the opportunity to travel, play, and hang out with my bestest peeps!

Here are some of the crazy adventures! For Michelle's Birthday I took her to Lagoon! It was so much fun and she had a blast! We met up with Michaela and Jeremy and went to Lagoona Beach and on rides all over the park! I can't believe Michelle is 9 ALREADY!! Time sure does fly, and you know what that mean... I'm getting OLD!

The fam and I have also done some temple visits. We hit the Oquirrh Mountain Temple Open House, which was amazing and fun! Then I've also had the chance to visit the Draper Temple, Jordan River Temple, and the Boise Temple! Yay!

Speaking of going to Boise, one of my bestest friends EVER!!! Michaela Faye and I went up to Payette, ID which is her old stomping grounds . We had the chance to spend a couple of days with her family, whom I love! It was totally a chill weekend! I loved it! We just hung out in Payette, made some yummy food, and got to play with MJ's cute cute niece and nephew!

All in all my summer has been awesome! Worked a ton, but now that is over with! Alexa and Katie got married, had the chance to play with some peeps, and there is still more fun to be had! (possibly camping in a couple weeks?) :) And now school has begun, which is always good? But it takes up a lot of my fun time!

So here are pics from some of my summer adventures. I hope you enjoy them! Just beware, there are A LOT! :)

Me and Ash cakes at the Weber State fireworks!

Oquirrh Mountain Temple!

Jordan River temple

Michelle's breakfast in bed on her b-day!

Having fun on some rides!

Michelle, Michaela, and Jeremy!

Yes, Jeremy is wearing Michelle's

Hannah Montana hat!

I refused to go on the Samurai, but Michelle was all for it!

She's fearless!

The water bottle exploded and

gave MJ a fat lip! :( Poor girl!

The girls at Lagoon!

Yes, I am aware I look like poop on toast, but it was fun!

We REALLY like cotton candy!

The birthday girl!

Draper Temple! I love this pic!

Me at the Draper Temple!

Eating pasta at Applebee's with Sarah

Me and Sarah after dinner.

Hill doing what she does best....

Michaela with Khapri and Graham in Payette

Little Khapri! So cute!

Kyndall, MJ, and Brennick at the bon fire

Me and Michaela Faye

B and MJ!

lol! Look how excited he is!

Brennick is a crack up! I love this kid!

Alexa and Levi emerging from the temple.

Me and Kirsten waiting for Alexa

Me, Rex, and Kirstine!

Congrats Lex! We love you!

RIVER RAFTING!!!

2009-09-03T19:00:00.005-06:00

At the begining on August Zach and I took a little trip up to WY to go RIVER RAFTING! Now my singles ward has done this trip the last 3 years and I have never been able to go... until now!

I was totally stoked! I have never been rafting, so I was pretty nervous too! But I talked it out with my peeps and they calmed me down a bit. Kellie even knew the exact rapids I was going to be riding. I thought she was CRAZY when she said they were named Lunch Counter! lol! But turns out, she's not so crazy! She was right!

I was only there for one day! It was a quick trip, I had to get back to work, go to Katie King's wedding reception, and get ready for my awesome trip up to Payette, Idaho with Michaela!

So this was just the first of many vacations I took during the month of August. August was really BUSY! I felt like I was living out of a suitcase the whole month! But it was great! So here are some pics from my amazing adventure! It was so much fun!

Ewww....

At the geyser in Soda Springs!

It really did stink! Bad!

Zach wearing the pimpin' hat we found!

Yeah, I am cool! It's ok to be jealous!

The hat does that to people!

We were looking for a map of Idaho, but the only map they had

was an atlas of the Middle East. I though it was strange.

Do people in Soda Springs, ID, frequent the Middle East that much?

They had this sign AFTER the last gas station,

by that point we had already passed the last gas station

we needed to fill up at!

JENKINS LANE!!

I wanna live there!

Jackson Hole!

Zach wouldn't let me go inside! Boo!

Zach walking through the maze!

It took FOREVER!

I like posing like statues...

Me and the sheep in a kick line!

You can't see me, but I am totally in the middle of the raft!

My old lady knees wouldn't let me sit on the side!

It was super fun! AND FREEZING!

WHAT?!?! SHE CAN COOK?

2009-08-26T18:13:00.004-06:00

Alright, so I actually have a lot to blog about. I will get to my river rafting trip in Wyoming, me and Michaela's awesome time in Idaho, and even my Alaskan cruise... eventually. lol! I don't feel like doing it right now! Now, I want to take the time to share my cooking experience with you all!

So one of my bestest friends, Rachel Dawn Porter Smith, loves to cook! And she is really good at it too! She loves it so much she even has a cooking blog.... Get in the Kitch! I recommend you all stop by and see the yummy recipes she has on there! I've tried many of them myself and they are amazing!!

Me on the other hand... do not cook! It is very rare that you see me in the kitchen except to make banana bread or some cookies or something tasty with sugar. But the other night I was feeling pretty hungry, so what did I do? I cooked! That's right! I'll say it again... I cooked!! I made an entire meal for me and Zach, which consisted of Spaghetti, peas, and garlic bread! Now, it may not sound like much, but it was pretty awesome if I do say so myself! lol!

So here is some proof! Pics of the lovely meal I made! I know it makes your mouth water, but if you really wanna try some yummy stuff stop by:

getinthekitch.blogspot.com

you won't be sorry! :)

Zach really likes Spaghetti!

Yummy!

I was pretty proud! lol!

HAPPY BIRTH-MONTH TO ME!!!

2009-08-04T23:09:00.005-06:00

I have the most amazing friends in the world! Seriously! You can be jealous if you want to! But I mean it, my friends are the best! They do so much for me! I absolutely love them and this is why! Here is the lowdown:

To start off, a week before my b-day my good friend Kellie Romer took me to dinner, MJ joined us, and we went to Red Robin! I really liked it! Tasty tasty food! Although we totally forgot to tell them it was my birthday to get the free mud pie! LAME! But for sure next time we go we will!

After dinner, Kell and I were trying to decide what we wanted to do… movie? No… bowling?… no… mini golf?... hmmm…. Getting warmer… and the final decision was…. Drum roll please… Laser tag, go carts, and a shootout basketball competition! (which I totally won!) It was awesome! Kellie hasn’t done it since high school! (wow she’s old!) lol ;) I joke, but Kellie is pretty much my big sister! So I’m allowed to tease her. :)

Then we went back to her place, watched her wedding video (LOVED IT!) and had root beer floats! Lol! It was an awesome night. It was like I was turning 12! Not 22! Lol! Thanks Kell! It’s always fun to hang out and chat! LOVE YOU TONS!!!

Then on the day of my birthday is where the big surprise came. Rach and Michaela have been planning it for awhile; they just would never tell me what it is. I had been trying for weeks to get it out of them, but nothing. Not one peep! I was quite impressed they kept it a secret for as long as they did. I also tried to get other friends to tell me, but still nothing!!!

So what did they do? They took me to dinner The Roof (amazing!) and to the movies to see The Proposal! (So fun!) It was awesome! First of all, I love spending time with my friends, like I said before, they are amazing. Plus, yummy food and a cute cute movie! What is better then that? :) Nothing! It was a blast! Thank you girls!

And not to forget, my sweet mother, gave me flowers and breakfast in bed. It was a great day! I had so much fun!

Then later that week, My dad took me out to dinner… TWICE! Once at the Cheesecake Factory with my bros, and then to Tepenyaki with Marina. Mmmmmm…. Foooood…. Yummy. :)

Thanks to everyone who helped make my birth-month so great! You are true friends and I love you all!

This is what Kellie and I look like in the dark!

Yep, Laser tag! We cool!

After our delicious dinner at The Roof!

Friends FOREVER! lol!

So, I'm pretty clumsy! MJ and Rach gave me

On the Go Neosporin! lol! I've definitely used it!

At the movies!

Me, Rach, and Michaela! These girls are the best!

We bad... we know!

Preston was REALLY hungry at the Cheesecake Factory!

Birthday Cheesecake... mmm... yummy!

Flowers from my mommy! LOVED THEM!

One gone... two come back!

2009-07-21T15:10:00.008-06:00

Curls and Colt!

Well this summer has been a little bit crazy with the cousin folk. The missionary cousin folk that is. First of all, my cousins Colton and Caleb, came home from their missions. These boys intentionally put their mission papers in in the same day, so they would get their calls the same day, and would leave pretty close to the same time! lol! Well, Elder Caleb Gorringe went to the Brazil Sao Paulo South Mission and returned July 2nd. Elder Colton Meyerhoffer went to the Dublin, Ireland Mission and returned July 3rd. Yes, just one day apart! And because of these boys coming home we've had a lot of Gorringe family time lately. It's been great! And my out of state cousin's were in town too so we all got to hang out! It's been great! Here are some pics from my missionary cousins return!

The fam waiting for "curls"! aka Caleb,
at the airport.

Me, Michelle, Lynzi, and Caleb

Caleb with his Grandma's

His mission buddies!

The Gorringe family! Cole (far left) will be serving in Finland soon! :)

Caleb's first request..."I want some ribs!" lol!

Then Colton came home!

Everyone waiting for Colton at the airport!

I was really excited for him to come home!

Colt hugging his sister and his niece.

Colt and his brother Carson.

Then my cousin on the Jenkins side of the family, John Meyer, was called to serve in the Denmark Copenhagen mission. Elder Meyer gave an amazing talk at his farewell, that had me in tears btw, on sacrifice. He left July 15th for the MTC. Good luck Elder Meyer! You will be a great missionary!

Johns face... on a cake! lol!

Elder Meyer and Zach! Zach's tie says

"On a mission from God" lol! Very appropriate!

I am so proud of all my cousins for choosing to serve the Lord for 2 years! These boys are amazing! I have many other cousins who are serving right now! I love them all and can't wait for them to return!

Elder Justin Haslam

Elder Jake Haslam

Elder Reed Bullen

Elder Richard Bullen

Elder Lewis Jenkins

Elder John Meyer

These boys are all currently serving with Elder Cole Gorringe going to Finland very soon! I don't think I forgot anyone. (I AM SO SORRY IF I DID!) My cousins are amazing! :)

STADIUM OF FIRE!!

2009-07-15T22:10:00.008-06:00

The 4th of July started the same way it does every year, with the annual Jenkins family breakfast in Plain City. It was nice to see the family, as always.

Then it was of to Aunt Susan's for a Gorringe family luncheon. Since Caleb and Colton came home from their missions, we've had a lot of family time, which is awesome! :) The missionaries came over and gave us a little lesson and sang a nice little song for us!

My cousin Rachelle really wanted to go bowling, so we squeezed a cousin bonding experience in at the bowling alley before we hit the STADIUM OF FIRE!!!

I've been looking forward to the concert ever since I heard that SHeDAISY was going to be opening. As most of you know, I am a huge SHeDAISY fan, so I was super stoked because I got to meet them too. I even had them do a station id for the radio station! It was awesome!

Then came the Jonas Brothers! My little sis Michelle is a huge Jo Bros fan, so I think she was even more excited about the concert then I was! She had a blast, and so did I! The whole group consisted of me, Michelle, Mom, Aunt Joyce, Uncle Daren, Brodi, and Lynzi! After the concert was the fireworks! One word...AWESOME! I love the fire in the sky! :)

Here are A LOT of pics from the events of the day! Yay for 4th of July and for freedom! God Bless America!

COUSINS!

Bowling, bowling, bowling...

Guitar playing missionary.

Me and the SHeDAISY girls.

All of us!

Yay!

Michelle was REALLY excited for the Jonas Brothers!

Lol! I love this pic!

PRETTY!

FIREWORKS!

Ash and Jo Cakes get hitched!!

2009-07-06T23:22:00.008-06:00

On June 26th, 2009, Ashley Warburton and Jordan Jones were married for time and all eternity in the Salt Lake Temple. I have been good friends with them for a little over a year and I was so excited to share that special day with them. I was there for their first hang out session/first date. We all went to Wise Guys and had a great time! :) And then after a year of again/off again dating they tied the knot!

I went down to the temple to take some pics, then helped out at the reception serving the yummy cake and I even did the music for the happy couple! Surprise surprise right? :) Then after the rain stopped (the lightning was scary!) I caught the bouquet to top the night off!

Here are some pics from that amazing day! I am so happy for both of them! Love you Jo and Ash cakes!!! :) I wish you all the best!

Beautiful SLC temple!

Ash cakes pointing at someone...

Jo is such a stud!

The happy couple!

I love this girl!!

Ash and Rach cakes!

Nothing but smiles!

In my defensive stance ready to go!

Action shot!!

Nice try ladies, but I WON!!!

I love this video! So cute!!

2009-07-05T10:08:00.003-06:00

More videos from Kelly....

Since U Been Gone!!! I love that everyone
is jumping at the same time!

We are HILARIOUS!!!!

Kelly Clarkson... My Life Would Suck without You!

2009-06-24T22:06:00.010-06:00

So... I love music. I think most of you know this! I like all different genres too and I love to frequent concerts... when my checkbook allows of course! :)

On June 11th, Rach Smith and I went to the Kelly Clarkson concert in Orem. I've LOVED Kelly since her American Idol days! I think she has a great voice (when she is not screaming!) and puts on a great show, so I was really excited to see her live!

June has been crazy weather wise, so I was really paranoid that the show would be cancelled due to rain, or a freak snow storm. (which was very possible!) But I had been planning on this concert for months and no amount of weather was going to stop me!

Rach and I got a quick bite to eat and then made the trip down to Orem. It had been raining all day so the ground was wet and nasty, but we still endured! We made our way up to the front of the stage and with the exception of a girl who has about 6'4, (seriously she was huge!) we had pretty good seats!

After the first acts, which were a couple of really good bands (Imagine Dragons!!!!) is when it started to rain, but then Kelly came on and the rain stopped! We had an AMAZING time! Seriously! So much fun! We jumped, danced and sang the night away! We sang to Kelly and Celine in the car... and even have the videos to prove it! And to top off the evening we went to Krispy Kreme for some tasty doughnuts! Here are some pics and videos from the night! It was awesome!

Rach and I before the rain.

She does not hook up!

Can you tell we were having fun? :)

Kelly Clarkson is MY American Idol!

Kelly!!!

Rach giving a thumbs up... surprise... surprise!

This is what Rachel looks like when she sings...

mmm.... doughnuts...

I have crazy eyes!

A Vegas Wedding and Some Temples Down South!

2009-06-15T12:05:00.006-06:00

Kelly and Michael

On June 6th, my step-bro Michael King married Kelly Hulwi at the Bear's Best Golf Club in Las Vegas, Nevada! She's a great girl and we're excited to welcome her to the family! It was a good time! We (me, Melvin, mom, Michelle, plus aunts, uncles, Nan and Pop) made a quick little weekend trip down to the Veg for the ceremony and party after. There was food, dancing, and fun! Little Michelle was having a blast on the dance floor! And I even made an appearance myself! (I know shocking!)

Congrats Kelly and Mike! We wish you all the best! Hope to see you soon!

While there me and the moms and the Mels stopped by the Vegas temple and took some awesome pics! Then on the way home I stopped by the St. George temple and took some more awesome pics! It was actually the first time I've ever been there... that I can remember! :)

So here are a TON of pics from our adventures!

All of us!

Kelly walking down the aisle! I love her dress!

Mom, Mel, and Michelle dancing the night away.

Me and Bubbs!

Mom and Mel in the elevator after all the fun.

Me and Melvin! I know... we look good! :)

See... here is proof... I danced!

What?... We were hungry!

Just the girls!

Me and Mel at the L.V. Temp!

Pretty!

Look at all the pretty flowers!

You can barely see... but that is me standing there...

S.G. Temp!

I promise I was happier then I look...

This is my favorite pic! I love the sunlight!

Feeding the ducks is fun? Heck yes it is!!!

2009-05-21T19:45:00.006-06:00

So I've had the privilege of hanging out with one of my bestest friends lately. We've been making up for lost time since she left me for a week and a half to go frolicking in Jamaica with her hubby! RUDE!! :)

Michaela and I have worked together, gone on a double date, done dinner and a movie, and even had a sleepover! (lol! Don't judge! Her husband was gone for the night!) It's been a ton of fun!

On Sunday Me, Michaela (MJ), and Jeremy (her hubby) all went to the Layton Park to feed the little ducklings. Little did I know it would turn into a whole night event filled with random pictures, merry-go-rounds, and ice cream! It was a lot of fun! Here are some of the wonderful pics from the infamous night.

(This is really a belated post! We did this at the end of May!)

Jeremy was clearly having a lot of fun!

Look how white I am!

MJ and Jeremy!

Ah... we really liked the blue rock! Lol!

Yep, we're friends!

Senior Pose!

Torn...

2009-05-20T00:06:00.003-06:00

Are you ever torn between 2 things? And they are really important things. Not like which restaurant you should go to for dinner (although I can never decide that either), but something if you choose not to do, you can never get back. I am currently having that dilemma and it is so much worse because I can never make a decision for the life of me. I am terrible at it. I just want someone else to decide and that is that. Both things are important to me, so that's what is hard. I just don't know what to do... can't I just draw my decision out of a hat and go from there?

Wedding BBQ anyone?

2009-05-17T23:24:00.007-06:00

Michael and Kelly are getting married! Yay! In case you didn't know, that is my step-brother... Mel's son. We had a pre-wedding open house for them on May 16th and had a pretty good turn out. Lots of family and friends showed up and showed their support, and there was also a ton of yummy food! Here are a bunch of pics from the fun filled day! I hope you enjoy them, I know I enjoyed taking them! Congrats Mike and Kelly. We love you! :)

The whole gang

Cwazy thumbs up!

Kim, Mike, Kelly, Jac, and John

The Gorringe side of the fam!

Me and the Bubbs!

Me and the Moms

The Cooks.

The happy couple!

Zach was really excited...

Momma and me

Mom, Cami, and Daren

Jean and Zach

Susan, Cylee, and James Gorringe.

Caden, Preston, and Derek.

Now Presenting the Class of 2009!!!

2009-05-03T15:54:00.010-06:00

Commencement!

School is finally over and I am sooo happy! And with the end of the school year many wonderful things happen. First of all, no more classes or homework! Woot Woot! But, also we get recognized for our accomplishments!

At the end of April, I was inducted into the Communication Honors Society! Yay! I am apparently smart! :) I got a fancy certificate, I got to go to a cool ceremony type thing, and I get to wear fancy cords when I graduated! (Whenever that is!)

"Rachel Jenkins has been selected by faculty and fellow scholars for membership in Lambda Pi Eta, The National Communication Association Honors Society. Inducted in the society by the Upsilon Theta Chapter at Weber State University presented April 24, 2009."

I got to share it with my bro (who is already a member of the society), my dad, and some fellow Comm friends. It was fun!

Then a week later was... GRADUATION!!! Technically I graduated with my Associates Degree, but I didn't walk. I would have to wear a purple cap and gown and that didn't sound too fun! Ha ha! But I got a diploma so that is really all the matters! Oh, and my name is in the program of graduates, that was pretty cool!

Aside from me, there are others who graduated. With their Bachelors Degrees! Which I think is so much cooler then an Associates! :) Rachel Smith, Alexa Rudd, and my own big bro Zach Jenkins all graduated! It was so awesome!

The Grads!

The day started at 8 AM with Commencement. Then on to brunch at the Union Building, followed by Rachel and Alexa's Convocation at 12:30. At 2:30 PM was Zach's Convocation followed by a much needed meal at Olive Garden with the family. It was such a long day, but it was well worth it to see my friends and family celebrate their accomplishments!

Since I am bragging about them, I mine as well really brag about them! ha ha!

Ok to start off, my best friend, Rachel Smith, graduated with her degree in Human Performance Management, Wellness emphasis. And a minor in Nutrition. Not to mention Summa Cum Laude!! And was recognized by her department with an Outstanding Nutrition Minor award! Woot woot! I am so proud of her! She worked so hard and finally did it!

Rachel and Rachel!

One of my oldest friends, Alexa Rudd also graduated. She graduated with a degree in Early Childhood. She was recognized by her department with an Outstanding Early Childhood Major Award! Yay! Go Rex!

A very blurry Alexa!

And last, but certainly no where near least was my big bro ZACH JENKINS!!! He got his Bachelors of Arts Degree in Electronic Media, Entertainment emphasis. (which is my degree! ha ha!) He is pretty sure he graduated Magna Cum Laude, but he's not 100% sure! ha ha! But he for sure graduated with honors! And that is all that really matters! :)

Looking to the future...

Look how excited I am! THUMBS UP!

Congrats to them and to all the other graduates. It was a great day and I can't wait until I get to do it! I am so proud of them and I wish them all the best! I love you guys! :)

KWCR FM OGDEN - 88.1 Weber FM

2009-04-28T23:13:00.006-06:00

So the semester is almost over!! I am so close, and I know that my grades aren't as good as they were last semester (don't worry I've already beat myself up about it!), but it has still be a good couple of months. As I did last year I am posting some radio stuff I've done. I like to share it with the 3 people who read this blog, so you can feel like you've listened to my show, even if you really haven't! :)

I know this is bitter sweet because I am no longer going to be DJing, but I will still be around the station! (Sponsorship Director baby!!) So if you REALLY want me to give you a shout out on air, I am more then willing to dust off the ol headphones and have another little go at it!

Hope these don't suck too bad! :)

WICKED!!!

2009-04-18T00:47:00.007-06:00

Back in 2005, which seems like FOREVER ago, I had the chance to go to New York with my Pops to see a couple of Broadway shows. I insisted that we go see a play called Wicked. You may have heard of it... after watching the amazing performance in NYC, it became one of my favorite plays!

Well, when I heard it was coming to SLC I got super excited. And when I found out my Dadda got us tickets, I got REALLY excited! I have been looking forward to it for a really long time!

Tonight was the big night! My Dad, Marina, her son and his girlfriend, Zach, and I all went out to eat at P.F. Changs and went to the see it. It was awesome! I got chills during the first act finale, much like I did the first time I saw it! It was so great, not to mention hilarious! LOVED IT!!!

Here are some of the awesome pics from the awesome-tastic night that we had!

Zach was really excited!

Yummy food!

This is how I eat...

I was having some major problems with the chop sticks!

Me and the poppa!

Me and Marina... to make up for the failed

picture attempt at Celine!

OMG! WICKED!!!

Yay!!!

Drum Role Please....

2009-04-16T00:21:00.003-06:00

So... as some of you know my bro Zach has been the Sponsorship Director at Weber State's 88.1 Weber FM for the past couple of years. But since he is graduating, his position is up for grabs. Well, a couple of weeks ago I had an interview with the new GM at the station. I interviewed for 4 different positions and Monday night I got the call.

I was wondering if I was going to get a staff position at all. I honestly didn't think I did that well in my interview. Ha ha! But I guess I did good enough. So ladies and gentlemen... drum role please.... you are looking at the new Sponsorship Director at 88.1 Weber FM! Woot Woot!

Not only do I get to follow in my bro's very big footsteps, but I also get a scholarship, the chance to make some cash, pretty little business cards, and oh yeah, it looks great on a resume! :) I am pretty stoked for it. So if you want to advertise with the coolest non-profit station around let me know! And since it's tax season it's good to know that it's a tax right off too!

Well, my fellow friends and radio listeners, I look forward to providing you with all of your sponsorship needs in the near future! Until then, I bid thee farewell! Good Night and Good Luck!

It's about that time again... yep... stress!

2009-04-03T19:43:00.003-06:00

So I know I blogged a little bit ago about how happy and content I was, but now that has all gone to crap! I am so super stressed! Seriously!!! My poor friends have to listen to me complain constantly, they probably are a little annoyed by the fact that I can't get my act together.

These last couple of days I have felt really productive, but I am full of anxiety!!! My nerves are getting to me so bad and I pretty much am having a mental breakdown! It's my own fault, and I know that, but bah!!! It is so frustrating!

I was talking to my friend last week, and I was of course, stressing about something. I told her I stress myself out too much and I get all worked up for no reason! And she was like, yep, you do! Ha ha! Well, at least I am not going crazy! I know that I have a problem and all I have to do is fix it!

I dunno, school is winding down and I feel like I haven't had "me" time. I feel like work and school is taking over my life. Ok, I have had SOME "me" time, but still super stressed! Obviously! And now because I am having major anxiety I am in a funk and I don't know what to do, and pretty much it just sucks!

So, if you talk to me and I am not my normal peppy self. If I seem a little down and snappy, it is not you, I promise! It's me and my stupid stress! So I apologize in advance! I just need to lock myself in my room with my ipod on shuffle and listen to some really good tunes. That usually de-stresses me. And after tomorrow, I SHOULD be a little better. But as for now, yep, I'm pretty much freaking out!

THE END

Yep, You're Right... I'm Done!

2009-03-22T23:01:00.004-06:00

Ok, so I'm sure you all have been waiting for this blog for awhile now! You know, the one where I say I am done with school! Well here it is!

I have just lost the will to go. I feel like I have no motivation. Yes, yes I am still doing my homework don't worry, but it is to the point where I just want to be done. Only 6 weeks! But that feels like FOREVER!!! I would be fine going to school... you know learning and such... and hey, I would even be ok with assignments, but it's the exams that kill me! Seriously! I get so uber stressed about every single one. Like take this last week for instance, I had a criminal law exam on Friday... well I go to school everyday until 2. And then Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday I work. So I did some much needed homework for other classes on the days I had off, but I didn't really have the time to study. I feel like I actually did ok on my exam, but I guess we will just have to see how it really went. I freaked out because I didn't get my study time! Bah!

I know this is not the way it is for everyone, but for me, it is really difficult when I have to work and go to school full time! I feel like I have no time for me! I feel like I am constantly going and have no time to just wind down. Because I put so much time into school, that when I have free time, I don't want to focus on school...Yes, yes, I do hang out with my friends, but I feel like if I didn't do that then I would go insane! I need my people!

Well, I am sure you all are thinking just buck up, get over it and get to work. I know! I am just not happy about it! I did so well last semester that I feel like I am failing miserably this semester! Boo!

6 weeks in counting my friends... 6 weeks! Then Zach and Rach are graduating... I'll be done with school (I thought about taking summer courses, but I doubt that'll happen!), it'll be summertime, and I will be free for another 3 months. I am of course going to be working still, but probably not as much as last summer... pretty much all I did was work and had no life... it kind of sucked! I feel like I didn't do anything fun last summer... seriously... nothing at all.. ok well, except for Russia, but that doesn't really count since I stressed constantly about that. :)

But, alas... I must get to bed! I have school in the morning... shocking right? Bah... ok ok... I'm going, I'm going...until next time....

CELINE!!!

2009-03-13T12:55:00.009-06:00

A couple of years ago I had the chance to see Celine Dion in Vegas with my papa. It was awesome! I loved it! Believe it or not, I am actually a huge Celine fan. She is AMAZING! Even if you don't like her music, you have to admit that she has an amazing voice!

Rach Smith has been telling me about Celine since the day I met her. Lol! That is how excited she was! She was counting down... 2 months... 20 days... 1 week... well, then Celine got postponed. Sad times! When Rach and I went to the Jazz game, we saw a preview for the new Celine concert at halftime. Well, it got me all excited, and so my dad was nice enough to get me and Marina tickets to the show!!! IT WAS AWESOME!!!

We had awesome seats! Seriously! Rach and I had planned on meeting up at the concert, but she forgot her phone! It freaked me out a little bit, but we ended up finding each other! Good times!!

Here are some pics and videos so you can feel like you were there!

Rach doing her signature thumbs up move!

LOVED IT!!!

Me and Celine are best friends!

I left the dial on video so instead of taking a picture of both of us... it took video... my bad!

Jazz Game Continued...

2009-03-08T16:17:00.005-06:00

I had to do two post because the site wasn't cooperating!!!

Um... she was really excited about Ron Boone...

The girls!

Us with the crazies!!! Classic!

Me with my sweaty guy!

Rach with her sweaty guy!!

The Bestest Jazz Game EVER!!!

2009-02-28T19:33:00.016-07:00

Just us! Rach and Rach!

I HAVE A COMPUTER THAT WORKS!!! YAY! I still haven't put music on it yet which is actually really surprising, but things are good! So as promised, I am doing a new blog post!

Pretty much since I met Rachel Smith I've promised her I'd take her to a Jazz game. My dad has season tickets, but he rarely let's me take both of them. So when I had the chance to get the tickets, I jumped at it!

We went at the end of January and it was soo much fun! Seriously! I have been to many a Jazz game in my day, but I can't remember the last time I had this much fun! It was awesome! Rachel was so excited! As we walked closer to our seats, he eyes kept getting bigger and bigger! Lol! She was pretty stoked!

Before the game, we went to the Dodo. Which is a fabulous restaurant at the gateway. Rach got an awesome salad, while I got a less than awesome club sandwich. But the best was the dessert. I told Rach that we HAD to get a piece of pie!!! AMAZING! Cookie dough pie! It was totally worth being late to the game for! I recommend it to all!

We sat next to a guy, who pretty much kept trying to hit on us the entire time. He was totally wasted and we didn't know his name, so we named him "drunk". He sat next to his uncle who we called "uncle". The entire game "drunk" kept saying that we had to get our picture taken with "uncle", so at the end of the game we were forced to take the pic!

After the game, which the Jazz won, we stalked the crazy guys that got all dressed up for the game and took at bunch of pics with them! It was so funny! Hence the huge smiles on our faces! We had a blast. I can't wait to take Rach to another game, although I'm not too sure her husband appreciated the fact that he wasn't invited! lol! But it's ok!

Rach and the PIE!

Look how excited I am!

Look how excited she is!

This is our good friend "Drunk"!

And this is "Drunk's" uncle!

So... my compy died!!!

2009-02-09T19:18:00.003-07:00

I'm sure that all of you have been wondering what in the H is going on with my lack of blog posts! And Kellie is wondering why I have yet to put music on my blog! I mean, after all, music is pretty much my life!

Well... there is a very good explanation for this. And no, it is not because I have nothing to report, the real reason is... my computer died! Yes that's right! DEAD! It started acting crazy around Christmas time, and I am sure some of you can remember I said some things I should never say. I got my computer back from the geek squad, but I come to find out they really didn't fix it... so I have to send it out again! Boo! I guess when you spill milk on a laptop... it breaks it! They had to replace the mother board and the video card. And then apparently didn't hook them up right.

So now I have been without it for over a month, and I have actually been surprisingly ok with it. I am behind on some TV shows, and I'm in need of some new music fixes, but I think I can wait the extra week and a half to get it back!

This is what you can expect when I get my computer back.... pics from Christmas... finally! Rach and I at the Jazz Game with pictures of Drunk and Uncle who sat next to us. Some ranting about the fact that I am apparently never going to graduate... and other delightful tidbits! Until then my friends, I bid thee farewell!

I Love You All!

2009-02-01T15:53:00.005-07:00

As I sit here once again putting off a paper, I can't help but reminisce about the year that has passed. I was contemplating if I should write this or not, considering the fact that January is over, but then I realized it's my blog and I'll write what I want to.

FYI this blog is going to be a long one! So bare with me. Take periodic breaks if needed. I don't want you to get a migraine from staring at the computer screen too long!

A lot of different things have happened to me this last year! I've moved home from Tennessee, been to Russia, graduated with one college degree (now just 1, 2, or 3 to go!), made some AMAZING friends! Lost some amazing ones as well. Completed my first song, and I've become closer to me family and my Father in Heaven.

Another thing that's happened, is I like to think I've "grown up". Just become more mature and level headed I guess. I think it all started when I moved home. It was then that I started putting things in perspective and began to know where my priorities are. I may not know what I want from life, but I know what I don't want to do and the person I do not want to become!

I've been thinking how truly grateful I am for the people in my life. Whether it be family or friends, or random people I've met. You've all had an influence in my life! :) I've had the opportunity lately to spend some time with my close friends, without any distractions! AKA, no spouses or kids! :) Not that I don't love spending time with them both, but it just makes things a lot easier. (Chugg, not that I don't LOVE Abs and Samo, but our heart to heart chats just seem to flow better without screaming/fighting kids in the background! lol! j/k) Spending time with them and my family makes me realize how blessed I am to have these people. They are such great examples to me in so many ways and are such strong pillars if light. I'd be lost in darkness without them.

Now, as you are reading this, I'm assuming only about 2 of you have lasted this long, you're probably wondering where this is coming from? But then there are some of you who are used to my mushy letters by now! :) Well, I like to think that I am a very deep and insightful person. Even though the person you are used to is a dork and a joker! But when I think of 2008, the memories and the people that I spent them with are the things that stick out in my mind. Russia and TN were both great learning experiences that I wouldn't change for anything, but I am glad to be home. It has taught me to appreciate the things that I have. And even though I have new friends who are wonderful and fun, it doesn't mean that i love my old friends any less, or that I don't miss them everyday. They have helped shape who I am today!

Basically, what I think I am trying to say is... things are good... and I am happy! I have reached a place of contentment in my life. Do I still want things I can't have? Of course! But I am still satisfied at the place I've come to. And yes it has a lot to do with the people that I surround myself with (you know who you are and I love you!), but also with the things I've done and seen. Everything I've been through in life has happened for a reason. It has helped mold me into this nice little Rachel package that you know and love!! :)

I hope that in the year to come I can experience many new things that I can look back on and smile at! Experiences that can help me grow and understand why things happen the way they do. I may not be the best at articulating words in such a way that sounds poetic, or in most cases they don't make any sense, but if you get nothing else out of this, I hope that you can take this with you.

I hope that in the future you get everything that you want. I hope that, if just for a brief moment, you can reach a point of contentment. I hope and pray for your safety and happiness and I hope that you can also be grateful for the things in life because this life is only a small portion of what is to come! So enjoy every minute of it! I love you all!

Merry Christmas! Well...part of Christmas anyway!

2009-01-01T14:22:00.008-07:00

Wow! After months of blogging faithfully, I have really been slacking lately. I guess it is because I haven't had school to vent about! :) Well, speaking of school, I did really well this last semester. 3.98!!! Woot woot! I only got one A-! It was in BASKETBALL!!...... I don't wanna talk about it! Ha ha! And I graduated with me Associates Degree! YAY!!! Now I only have 2 more years until I get my next one.

I've been working like crazy lately, but it's all good! Going from working only 3 days to working everyday straight for 2 1/2 weeks has messed with my head, but I got to work with Michaela almost everyday so that made it super fun! And the money is fun too! :)

Me and Michelle were having some fun before the holidays and took some pretty crazy pics! You should never give us both candy and a camera! It's a bad combination! But you gotta love us!

Christmas time was fun. I got to meet my future sister in law. (Michael's finance) Her name is Kelly and they are going to move to New Orleans after they are married so Mike can go to Orthodontics school. We only get to see Mike a couple of times a year, but it is always fun. Little Michelle loves being with him!

With Christmas comes the annual Jenkins family Christmas party, and that means..... THE SOCK GAME!!!! Woot! Me and April were having a small rivalry over the fuzzy flip flops from Aeropostale! lol! Oh April, that was really funny. Alexis couldn't make it so I included her by keeping her updated by text. Good times! Of course I won the slippers! lol! Sorry April.... maybe next year! :) (I do not currently have these pics, they are on my pop's camera, but I will post them soon!) :)

The Christmas party is always fun and is a great time to see the family since I don't get to see them as much as I would hope to. If you have ever met the Jenkins family, you would know, that we are VERY COMPETITIVE! So the games always get a little bit crazy! lol! The pictionary game was super fun! (because my team won!) And the weird link your arms together game was fun too! Lol! Me and Nicole totally rocked at that game! :)

I will post the pics soon. As well as pics from Christmas! I know, I am a slacker! But expect them soon because school starts on Monday, and with 6 classes I am going to be busy! Much love!

Twilight & Coldplay = Awesome weekend!

2008-11-27T20:17:00.007-07:00

So the last weekend was pretty much awesome!!!! First of all, on Friday, there was of course... TWILIGHT!!! And then Saturday we all went to the Coldplay concert! Woot woot!

I'll start with Twilight! I've read the book, and heard the hype, so I was super stoked to see the movie. I was a bit worried that it was going to be super cheesy, but it ended up being better than I thought. I'm still not too sure I like Robert Pattinson as Edward, but all in all the movie was brilliant. I will for sure go and see it again. I went with MJ and Jeremy and some peeps from the spa, it was fun to get a whole group together. People we screaming (that freaked me out a little bit), wearing Twilight t-shirts and dressing up as vampires, but it made for an entertaining night! Ah... Edward.... he makes my heart melt! LOVED IT!!!

Next to Coldplay!!! The concert was awesome! It pretty much rocked my face off! Chris Martin sure knows how to put on a great show. He kept the energy up the entire show! I was suprised at how great of an entertainer he was. And I know the question you want to ask.... did I see Gwyneth... and the answer is no! No I did not! She doesn't show up in SLC, she doesn't return my phone calls... I really need to talk to Apple and Moses about this. Their mom has totally gone AWOL!! LOL! J/k!

Being bored

Chris Martin!

The pops got the tickets and me, him, Marina, and Zach all went! So much fun! They played all the great songs and even went into the audience (near our seats... just so you know) to play some acoustic songs! We missed the first opening act and the second one was just WEIRD! I couldn't stand it!! Then it took freaking 45 minutes after the end of the act for Coldplay to come on the stage! Sheesh! But they played for a good 2 hours! So that made up for it!

Here are some great pics and vids... I know there are alot, but like I said it was AMAZING!!!!

Viva La Vida!

In the crowd, playing instruments and singin...

What to do?! Start mental breakdown right...now!

2008-11-26T23:00:00.005-07:00

So I had a minor breakdown today! I have been so excited about the fact that I am graduating, that I didn't actually stop to think about what I am going to do after i graduate. I.E. what am I going to get my bachelors degree in? I was having problems because I couldn't choose what classes to register for next semester. I am so indecisive! I can't even pick where to sit when we go to eat at the mall! And when I can basically choose any class I want, it really made me have a mental breakdown. It got worse when I called people to ask for advice and they pretty much made the situation worse. But luckily I have 2 amazing friends that listened to my vent and helped me out. I think that I am set for next semester, and I may even have a major and minor picked out, but that may change tomorrow... But then I realized, if I do go into that field, what job am I going to be looking for? Bah! So yet another breakdown!! Sheesh! Life is soo not fun sometimes!! Why do I have to make such difficult decisions?

You're Listening to 88.1 Weber FM... KWCR FM Ogden....

2008-11-23T00:15:00.009-07:00

So as most of you know... I have been taking a radio class at WSU! It's been great! I've got the chance to do a specialty show and talk on air and all that jazz. But I'm debating taking the class again next semester. People seem to love me (honestly who wouldn't? j/k :) But it can be a lot of work.

I thought I would post some audio clips that I have done. They are not the greatest, but I thought I would give some of you the opportunity to hear me, since some of you haven't had a chance to listen. (Kellie!) ;) But then there are some of you who listen every week, so you've probably heard it all! (Rach and Rich) :) Enjoy and let me know what you think. I tend to talk fast and jumble my words... this I know... it comes from years of watching Gilmore Girls, ha ha but still listen!

Double Double Toil and Trouble... Double Wives that is!

2008-11-05T14:14:00.007-07:00

The Smith Family!

Don't I look happy to be a polygamist!

Since I turned a certain age, Halloween has kind of lost its appeal to me. I can't go running around outside with the young ones anymore. And if I did people would give me some really weird looks! And possibly even call the authorities on me!

When Rach told me that there was going to be a Halloween party at the Mortuary, I had a couple of different reactions. The first being yay I was invited to a party. The second being oh crap I have to dress up. I hadn't planned on dressing up until Rach got this great idea from her sister. Which was.... drum roll please.... Richard is a polygamist and we will be his wives! LOL!

Such a great idea! We went to the DI and found some awesome-tastic dresses and shoes! Good times! Plus look at our hair! lol! Love it! You can't see it, but we both have french braids in the back!!

This was actually before Halloween so this blog post is a little delayed, but still fun!!! We were a big hit at the party and honestly I couldn't stop laughing. Especially about my hair. My mommy made my hair stand up that tall! Lol! She out did herself this time!!! Yay! Happy Late Halloween to all!

J mRaZ!!

2008-11-01T23:16:00.006-06:00

Right after she punched me. We have the alcohol bracelets just for fun!

There was no drinking!

My husband!

Oh, Jason. The way you move and sing makes my heart melt!

We're sad that the concert is over, but honestly it just looks like
I am scuzzing someone off!

Wow I can't believe that October is over and it is now November! This year has flown by so fast! School is winding down (hallelujah!) and Christmas is just around the corner (hallelujah!). So look out 2009! It's almost time! (ha that rhymed)

So this last week was my good friend Rachel Smith's b-day. Ok, well her b-day was awhile ago, but I took her out for her b-day on Tuesday! We hit the Training Table (mmmm cheese fries....) and then went to the J Mraz concert! That's right! Jason Mraz!!! I am pretty much in love with him! So I'll be honest, I totally benefited from her birthday present! Woot woot!

We had a blast even though I got punched in the face by Rachel. Yes my BFF totally clocked me! It may have been on accident, but it still happened! And then the next day she totally denied it! The nerve! :)

Here are some great pics from the concert! It totally rocked my face off! I love Jason and I love Rachel! Happy Birthday Smith! Thanks for a great time! Woot woot!!

So... I have a problem!

2008-10-30T22:26:00.003-06:00

So I've realized I have a problem. Yes, it's true I have a flaw! And the problem is... I procrastinate! It's a disease really. I constantly put things off to the last minute. Take this last week for instance. I knew that I had to give a talk on Sunday. I knew for a whole week... I didn't start until 1 in the morning the night before and ended up finishing about 5 minutes before church started! But hey, at least I finished it.

I think the worst is with school. I can pretty much count on this always happening towards the middle of the semester. I don't want to do my work, so I pretty much don't. Ok, let me rephrase that. I don't want to do my work, so I pretty much wait until the night before it is due to start on it. I know that my grades will end up suffering, but I think I lack the drive that I did towards the beginning of the year.

I went to a concert the other night instead of writing my paper. But the good news is I finished it... the class before it was due. Yes i know! I am an idiot! But at least I know that I have a problem. That is the first step to recovery right?

MJ said the other day that I really need to work on this problem, and I think that she is right. So right now I will stop blogging and finish my English project that is due tomorrow. I only have 2 papers to write. No big deal. Well... I best be off. If you have any tips to help me with not procrastinating let me know. Feedback is much appreciated! Shalom! :)

YAY!!!

2008-10-17T13:16:00.003-06:00

Sound the trumpets! Praise the heavens! Start the parade! Why am I so happy you ask? It's because I am no longer totally pissed off at Weber State University! That's right they accepted my math credit!! WHHHHOOOOOO HOOO!!!

As you know I was just a tad upset when they refused to give me the credit that I worked so hard to get. So I called the head of the Math department (he was a major jerk btw) and he basically said that my math wasn't good enough and refused to make an appointment with us. So... we put all the evidence in a nice little folder and dropped it off at his office (he had conveniently left for the day).

Anywho, I got an official looking letter in the mail today and it said that my math was SUFFICIENT TO SATISFY OUR QL REQUIREMENTS AT WSU!!!! YIPEE!!! The funny thing is it was signed by the Dean of the Science department, not the head of the Math department! Ha ha! (I realize he is the one that probably had the authority to write the letter, but I thought it was funny!)

So, now I am happy at the school again. There are no hard feelings. Well, as long as I still get to graduate, which I better be able to. I have all the credits I need. If not WSU can expect a smack down! (dun dun dun)

This pretty much made my day, and the fact that there is no school today either! Happy Friday to you all! Peace!!! :)

I am nerd... this I know!!

2008-10-15T00:02:00.008-06:00

Ok... I'll admit it! I'm a dork/nerd/geek! Whatever you want to call it. But the fact of the matter is, I have accepted it and moved on. And quite frankly, you should do the same! Are you confused by what I am talking about? As if my many hobbies don't give you the first clue, here is the subject to which I am referring.

Next week a movie come out... but not just any movie.... HSM3! That's right! HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 3!!! I am not ashamed! Mock if you will and judge if you must, but I do not hear your remarks! Because let's face it, this movie is going to be huge! It has already broken box office records in the UK and the movie hasn't even come out yet. Also, the first 2 movies broke cable TV records. So take that and put it in your pocket!!

Not only is Zac Efron quite the leading man (if I could steal him away from Vanessa Hudgen's I totally would...) but he has a nice little singing voice as well.

But Rachel, isn't High School Musical a kids movie? NO! it most certainly is not!! It is a family friendly joy ride that can be enjoyed by all. It may be targeted to the tween audience, but I can guarantee that there will be many 20 somethings at the movie as well.

But Rachel, isn't the movie is cheesy? And to those of you who ask this I say, yes YES it is! And that is why it has become so popular! Because it's cheese factor is one of the highest!

But Rachel, the music and dance moves suck! WHAT?! Who ever says this needs to say that to my face! I will sing "Breaking Free" and "We're All in This Together" at the top of my lungs and then you will change your mind!!!

But Rachel, why are you blogging about this? Well... that is a good question. I am blogging about this because on my radio show tonight, I was made fun of shamelessly be the other 2 boys! This blog is proof that I will not back down! I will stand tall against adversity and will prevail to the end!!!

So pretty much I am super stoked for this movie. I am planning on going with some of my peeps and if anyone would like to tag along you are totally welcome to come! Just give me the heads up!

And if there is someone out there that has no idea what movie I am talking about... well... what rock have you been living under? Here is the trailer to help you understand. Be prepared for some pretty sweet moves and some cheesy moments. My fav is when she stands up in the middle of the crowd! Lol! It's gonna be great! :)

Conference Weekend was fun? Why yes... yes it was!

2008-10-09T14:50:00.007-06:00

Wow, Richard is a guitar pro!

That is me! And that is Michaela!

Rachel Smith and Rachel Jenkins. When our powers combine we are "The Rachel's"

Basically our personalities in a nutshell!

So apparently when you get really stressed out... you get sick. Who knew? Still no word on whether this whole thing with Weber State is going to work out (see previous post if you are confused), but I am confident that it will. I have lots of evidence to back up my case.

So, back to being sick. It sucks. I sound like a man! And it is hard to get to sleep when your throat is hurting. Hopefully I won't contaminate anybody. All I can say is Clorox wipes are your friend!

Well, before the whole fiasco of me being mad at my school, I had a great weekend with my peeps. (Yes, the same 2 peeps that I have blogged about before!) Saturday Rach and I went to Mimi's and got a bite to eat and then took a muffin to MJ at work since she was unable to join us for the fun filled evening. After, we went to her house and watched a movie while her husband went to Priesthood session.

When Richard came home he tried to make some sticky popcorn for us... tried being the key word. It was, shall we say, interesting. But it was the thought that counts right?

Sunday we all went over to MJ's to watch General Conference. It was so much fun! Who knew that conference could be fun? I think that is the first time ever... EVER that I have actually sat through an entire session of conference and payed attention. Rich and Rach dosed off for a bit, but they regained consciousness in time to hear the closing remarks by the great President Monson.

I loved it. I actually watched some of Saturday's session and a little bit of the first session on Sunday before MJ's. I can't wait for the Ensign to come out so that I can catch up on the talks that I missed. Wow, I am becoming so righteous! ha ha! :)

After, the famous Richard Smith showed off his mad skills (again) on the guitar. I was able to show some of my skills too, but he just made me feel inferior. (Richard I shake my fist at you!) It was fun! We took some pics while we were at it too, just to prove that we are actually friends... I look like crap in these pics... it's because the sickness that has now taken over my body was making it's way to the surface... I should have known... ok I am done rambling! Until next time my friends! WORD! :)