Called to Serve - Austin

Brady's little brother Austin opened his mission call tonight!! Seems like just yesterday Brady was opening his mission call, I was holding back the tears as this journey was about the start. Austin had a lot of support, plenty of family and friends there, waiting to hear!!! He's had his mission call since Wednesday but his mother has been out of town until today so poor Austin has had to wait! But it was exciting and we're very happy for him :)

Ohio, Cincinnati Mission

After, we went to celebrate by eating pizza at the park with Brady's family! Austin put his availability date October 2nd, and that's when he's leaving! We're all so excited for him! Can't wait for this new adventure. Congrats Elder Ziegler!

The Best Day Ever

Today was the best day ever.

Let's start off with first things first.

1 WEEK

until I steal this cutie pie's last name.

photo credit

(just a sneak peek picture from our bridal/groomal session)

I can't believe it. I'm getting married in 7 days.

7 DAYS!!!! 

This reality is starting to hit me a little bit. I've been waiting for this day, for a very long time. In fact, Brady and I started talking marriage way before he even started his mission papers. It is crazy to think we have been together for 3 years, even though we were separated by distance for 2 of the 3. I've been practicing my signature, and it's getting pretty good. Brady is so cute, and wants to wear his wedding ring right now, which I guess he could, but we'll wait until we're married ;) I remember being at 1 week until Brady got home from his mission, and how it went by fast. And this time, it's 1 week until we're married, for all of time and eternity. :)

Now lets move on, to one of the greatest events of today.

I went through the Jordan River Temple to receive my endowment, and covenant with my Father in Heaven. It was beautiful. It was amazing, it was so awesome!! :)

 I had to work in the morning, and it was all I could do to stay focused. I was so excited & nervous I couldn't even eat lunch!!! I ran some errands as soon as I got off work, and came home in time to put my Temple bag together with my mom and then we waited for Brady to arrive so we could go to the Temple!! I was so excited at this part, it was finally happening!! I remember calling in February to schedule this endowment session and now it was finally here. And what better way to spend it knowing I would be marrying Brady only 1 week later!?!? When we got there I had my mom take a photo of us, and as we walked in the door my mom said, "exciting!! you get to go through the doors!" and I had a flash back to this memory (2nd paragraph). But this time, I got to go through the doors, I got to walk through and was allowed.

The session was amazing, it is literally 2 hours. But it was worth every second. I obviously can't speak of what goes on in the Temple, as it is sacred not secret, but I will say it is nothing what I expected it to be. My mother was my escort, and my sister, brother-in-law, aunt, cousins, grandparents, dad, family, etc. were all there to support me. It was awesome :) I cried at the very beginning of the session. So overwhelmed with the Spirit and the reality of what I was about to participate in; the covenant I was about to make with MY Heavenly Father. It was the most perfect feeling in the world. But, one of the main reasons I cried was because I was finally in the Temple with my sweetheart. I had dreamed of this day my entire life, and especially while he was gone. He sat right next to me across the isle. We kept sneaking looks at each other, the entire time. He kept making me smile, blush and giggle. He is SO cute you guys. Seriously.

It was amazing, one of the neatest things I've ever experienced. I really want to go back. In fact, I crave to go back. I didn't feel weird, I wasn't freaked out. I was so fascinated, and eager to go back and learn more, learn it all over again, but not this next time, and ever again, will it be for me, but it will be for someone else. I feel so much closer to my Father in Heaven, its incredible. It definitely was everything I waited for and more. My mom whispered to me during the session, "I'm so proud of you, this may sounds weird in the Temple but your obedience has finally paid off, I'm so happy for you." And yes, my obedience has paid off, I wasn't ever the best kid, but I still have time to turn around, and I did... my Father in Heaven was merciful and entered my life at the perfect time.

When I walked out of the Temple, I walked past a bunch of girls outside the baptistry doors and I just thought, how cute, if they only knew what it will be like when they get older and serve missions or get married, and experience what I just did. It was so nice to be apart of something with more than just myself. Its nice to know we have so much support for each other in this gospel, we have so many people to lean on for help. We are not alone. I was so happy and so grateful so many family members could come. We headed for dinner and then called it a night..

It was a beautiful day :)

I'm so happy and I cannot wait to be married in 7 days.

Called to Serve

These are some of my late night ramblings, but this subject has been on my mind, a lot these past couple days.

The Gospel.

I can't get it out of my mind. I can't get the thought of sharing it, out of my mind either. I keep thinking of ways I could share the gospel more, so I got a twitter again. But then I worry that people won't follow me because I share too much "Mormon stuff." I also feel like I'll lose friends on Facebook... But that's now what I should be worrying about. I should be worrying about my duty, when I was called to serve here, on the earth, during these Latter-days.

I may not be going on a mission. Even though it was something I really wanted to do for a long time, I'm still called to serve. I'm still a member missionary, and I can still spread the gospel just as often as a full-time LDS missionary. And I'm so grateful for that.

Little reminders in my head all week, that I am a Child of God, and that my Heavenly Father loves me. So very, very much. I know I can spread the gospel in ways He needs me to. So as I strive to serve daily, I keep in my prayers that very duty.

I walked to and from the gym today, it was beautiful outside. As I was walking home, this song started playing. As Easter is approaching, and general conference, I'm getting very excited. I had this feeling that I should just listen to it. So I did, and I felt so much happiness. I do, Believe in Christ. After which, this song started playing and I absolutely love this song. It's so beautiful and of course, I absolutely love MoTab.

I am so excited to get prepared for General Conference. I'm going to start pondering questions, and thinks for my future. I've decided to get a journal just for general conference. It's going to be awesome :) I'm so excited to hear from our prophet, the twelve apostles and other general authorities. I really wish conference was more frequent than just 2 times a year. I really hope I can focus on my Savior, and His resurrection this coming Easter.

I hope I always remember to be Christlike and remember to spread the gospel wherever I can. I do not want to rob anyone of this beautiful joy. Everyone is loved by the Lord.

I've been wanting to read the scriptures with Brady. I haven't been doing so well personally. I've hit Jacob and I'm just stumped because chapter 5 is soooooo long, but that shouldn't be the reason. ANYWAY. I told Brady I would really like to start reading the scriptures with him. And even though I'm reading the Book of Mormon right now, I've felt prompted to start reading D&C. I haven't read D&C in a few years and I miss it. Every time I hear a verse or two, I always wonder why I'm not reading it again. So tonight, Brady and I read D&C 1. It was beautiful, and I really felt the Spirit. I know this will bless us, and us individually. I not only want to draw closer to the Spirit personally, but I want to with Brady, as a companionship as well. :)

I'm going to strive so much harder to share the gospel, whether it's on my blog, Facebook, twitter, or by simply opening my mouth. This is the most important thing in my life, and it always will be. I'm so excited for general conference and I hope you are too.

I know this gospel to be true, and I know that my Savior lives and loves me. I know my Heavenly Father sent me to this earth, to serve him and to become just as He is. I cannot wait for my return; to hug him, see his face. I cannot wait to be greeted by my Savior, and I cannot wait to see loved ones who have passed on. I know this Gospel is essential to the path that leads to the Celestial Kingdom. I know the Book of Mormon to be true, and I stand as a witness for Joseph Smith, Jr. I know He translated the book correctly, and as God allowed him to. I'm grateful for his example, and his desire to serve the Lord in every situation. I know that families will be together forever. I know that the day I kneel across the altar, and make those sacred covenants, I will hold strong, because I have the gospel in my life, and strive daily to be like our Savior. I know that I will be with Brady forever, and no matter how our family turns out, we will be happy. I know that as I prepare to enter the temple to receive my endowments, and then be sealed to my sweetheart, I will be blessed immensely. I love my life. I love this happiness. I love this gospel. I love it. In His Sacred Name, Amen.

Entering the House of the Lord

Happy February everyone! :)

This morning, I woke up a whole hour and forty minutes before I needed to be up. What better time than that to dive into the scriptures and catch up on what I haven't read this past week. It's amazing how easily it is to forget to read your scriptures... yet so easy to remember to read them as soon as you wake up. I'm so glad that thought always enters my mind when I wake up.

This morning, the only scripture that stuck out to me, as there were many, but this one just added to what's been on my mind these past few days is 2 Nephi 12:3.

"And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us his ways, and we will walk in his paths; for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem."

Isn't that so wonderful? I mean really. That's what happens when we attend the Temple. We learn of God. We learn of his ways, his teachings, what he wants us to do in this life, and then we will walk that path doing absolutely everything we can to remain faithful to him, so we can, one day, return to him forever. The Temple is a wonderful place to receive answers. It is the holiest place on this entire earth. I am so grateful to be surrounded by so many of these gorgeous Temples. To be blessed enough, and worthy enough to enter in and do the work of the Lord for those who have passed on, and one day, enter for myself :)

That is my biggest desire right now, and I'm really having a hard time not thinking about it. Entering the Temple is literally all I think about. Sometimes I wonder if I'm just wanting to enter in because everyone else has, or I'm still the only 20 year old girl who sits next to the 12 year olds doing baptisms; and getting asked if I'm endowed every time I go. It's a bit rough but I have to remind myself this is still amazing work, and for any other work in the Temple to be done, baptism must come first. It's really special. The Temple is such a humbling place, it makes me forget my complaint of not having been endowed when I go.

I know what is inside the Temple. I know what awaits me. But.... do you want to know the BEST thing about the temple?

It will ALWAYS be there.

The temple isn't going anywhere. The temple is eternity. The blessings which are inside, still await me and always will until I make it through. It will still be amazing, it will still be wonderful and spiritual and prolly the best experience of my life. And maybe the time for me to go isn't right now, or maybe it is. Whichever, the Temple will always be there for me, no matter how long it takes for me to enter in, readily making sacred covenants with my Father in Heaven.

So, to satisfy my current desire while I pray about it daily, I'm currently reading a book called Prepare Now for the Temple by Brittany Mangus. It really is one of the best books I could possibly read. She wrote it for sisters who are getting married or going on a mission, but still says this book is good to read if you're not doing either. She starts off the book by pointing out our desire to enter the Temple. Do we truly know the work we are doing? Are we truly prepared to enter in? It's just amazing and I'm grateful for this book.

So while I wait for my answer of when I can enter in, I will continue to enter, and do the work of baptism and know in my heart that no matter what I'm doing in the Temple, at least I'm at the Temple. It is where the Spirit dwells and I can receive answers to my prayers. I know these Temples to be the house of the Lord, and for those of you who are endowed, please continue to enter in his house. You will blessed immensely. It is the one place for escape from this world. I say this in his sacred name, Amen.

Festival of Trees

The Festival of Trees is SO fun! I'm so grateful that I get to go each year. I usually go with my mom and sisters, it's sort of a girl thing. And each year I'm just amazed at how many people come. This year Brady was able to come with, and his brother and brother's girlfriend came along! It was a lot of fun. Especially because Brady wouldn't stop talking to my mom about this. Hahaha, he's a cutie.

We went back to his house to watch some Fringe and then parted ways. I love the Festival of Trees. Having been a patient at PCMC, it gives me a different meaning. I hold that hospital so dear, very dear to my heart. It is because of them that I am still here. I'm grateful for everyone's service and their loving gestures of donating things to raise funds for the hospital. It's amazing! Can't wait until next year!

This Is Why

I know I've said this, at least a million times before, but I really can't get over its truth.

Brady is so good to me. I truly can't believe I have him in my life as mine. I have dated a lot of different guys, and each time, they were "different" than the last guy I had dated. Each one, I can remember telling myself that they were it. That they were the one I wanted to be with, and when I would think about how many years I would have to wait to be with them forever (I know, SUPER fast for me to even have considered that in high school. But I'm a girl, it's what we do) and I always just knew it would be worth the sacrifice and the wait.

I dated one particular boy in high school that I just absolutely brain-washed myself into believing I loved him. That I would marry him. That I would wait 2 years to be with him. I told myself he was absolutely the one for me, and there was no turning back. Obviously God had a different plan in store for me. By far, the hardest breakup I have ever gone through. Looking back, I don't feel pain, ask me 2 years ago? I couldn't make it through the day. I felt lost. Like I had no idea where I was going with my life. I started to see how inconsiderate he was towards me. I started to see how he truly didn't care for who I was, that he was just pretending all along, and I had given every single inch of my heart to him. I didn't think I'd ever see the day, that it'd be put back together. And again, God had something else in mind to help my sweet, tender, shattered heart. And Brady, would be that something else. I've said it many, many times before, but I know Brady came into my life at the time he did for a reason. Would I have loved for him to have come into my life at an earlier time? Why yes of course! Talk about saving my heart from wondering the halls at school for 1.5 months alone. But that was something I had to work through myself, with God by my side. Until he knew I was ready for Brady.

Brady is my best friend. My very best friend. It's the best thing in the world to have him home. I love how caring he is towards me. I seriously hope I can serve him throughout my life, as much as he serves me. He would probably disagree, but he is the sweetest guy I've ever known. Not a selfish bone in his body. I know he will always be there to comfort me, and this past week I have been working really hard to be more involved in his life, such as the games he plays, things he likes, listening when he talks about his mission or shows me a youtube video (they seriously never end.. ;) ha!). I want to be his best friend always.

My point of this post is obviously why Brady is it, but tonight, was just another sweet confirmation, and humbling experience of how truly blessed I am to have him.

I get EXTREMELY frustrated when it comes to math. Math is truly the hardest subject for me, and always has been. If I don't pass my math class this semester, I will literally cry and that's not a lie. Tonight, as I crammed in some homework, and semi-studying, I started to get frustrated with how not easy this was for me. I get migraines really quickly, sometimes I blame them on math (actually, most of the time) but they're linked with that stress for sure. So I stopped and decided to snuggle with Brady, who was patiently waiting on the couch for me to finish. This is totally a girl thing. Assuming guys just know how we feel and when we want something. So I finally just decided to tell him that I just needed a hug, and that was all. Before I bursted into tears over some math problems I can't understand. He hugged me and that was all. He didn't say anything and neither did I. He just hugged me. After-which we talked for a bit, about our crazy plans this weekend. (I swear everyone wants us to be with them this weekend) and then he started to make me laugh by doing silly things or tickling me. I couldn't and still can't tell if he was doing this to distract me, help me or simply just because he wanted to. But it helped me. It helped me not feel stressed, not want to burst into tears, and helped me forget my frustrations.

This is why I love Brady. For his kind, caring heart. Whether he was purposely helping me laugh and smile, or not, he changed my attitude and helped me feel better tonight. He is my sweetheart, and I'm grateful for him. Oh how much I owe to him for all that he has done for me.

This obviously was a longer post than I'd expected it to be, but the words just kept coming and my fingers just kept typing. All I have to say is, my boyfriend is the best boyfriend in the world :) I'm so happy.

Thank You

I have some time to kill this morning because lately, my body really loves waking up really early. I decided I would take the time to write my thank you's out to everyone. Sorry I've been a little M.I.A. I'm just trying to soak it all up before I have to go back to work and school (school only has 2 more weeks.. YAY!)

To You: 
Thank you. To everyone. To you, my mom and dad, my siblings, my best friends, and my mg's. To my church leaders and anyone who knew what it felt like to have a mish out. Thank you to those who support me and Brady. And of course, to the waiter haters, thank you ;) I'm grateful for the endless hugs, and smiles. For the endless "I can't wait for you to be with him again!"'s and the "You two are so cute, so happy for you!"'s. For reading my depressing, sad, I miss-my-boyfriend-but-here's-what-i've-been-doing-for-two-years blog. Thank you for getting excited when I got a letter or a package. Thank you. Seriously. I could not have made it without a lot of you. Especially my best friend Abby. She has helped me so much through this wait, and everything else in between. She's my solid rock and support and she's my best friend for life. Nothing will ever tear us apart. Nothing can separate us. Abby, thank you for your kind and patient heart. Thanks for listening to me talk about Brady endlessly. It really means a lot.
Thank you to my roommates. For being there for me when Brady first left, and continuously throughout his mission. Mini m&m's will always make me think of you. And I can't wait for you all to meet him :) He's a sweetheart and you'll love him!
Thank you to my sweet friend Jenna. She really helped me live while Brady was gone. I did more things the whole two years with her, than on my own. We had some really great times and I'll always miss that. But I hold those memories dear to my heart. She's so sweet and her baby girl is gorgeous. Looks just like her mommy :) Love you Jenna, "It's the best out there!"
Thank you to Brady's family as well. For loving and supporting me while Brady was gone. It's nice to have his family accept me, even while he was gone. It's hard being alone and not having him here, but their kindness helped me survive it. I love all of them very much, even the little kiddos that I'm excited to get to know more.
Thank you to Granny. For sending me his emails every single Monday without fail. I always knew at 8 AM I would have a notification on my phone that said, "England." And if I didn't receive it, whether it was at all or later in the day, thank you for calling me to make sure I knew you didn't forget about me. You are so kind and I'm grateful for your caring heart.
Thank you to everyone.

To My MG's:
Thank you. I used to be apart of the W4AM group on Facebook which included over 1,000 girls. I left it around the year mark. I just didn't feel that support was for me anymore. But that group helped me through the first couple months and I'm grateful. I've met some of the most amazing girls through that group. The majority of the girls that I met when I first started have all "graduated" and lives are started. I'm so grateful to all of you who answered my questions, or just simply said, "I know what you're going through." I never met every single girl that I met online, in real life, but the majority of them have become some of my very best friends :) To the parties, of talking really loud, and laughing, and talking of our boyfriends, the areas they're in and all that they've been through. What it's like to get letters from them, packages and how much longer we all have left to wait. From becoming friends with all of them on Facebook, to having dinner in real life. Jamming out to Justin Bieber, to making slideshows of our boyfriends. These girls have been with me through thick and thin. I'm so grateful to them.

To Brady:
Thank you for being patient with me. This hasn't been easy on either of us, but knowing we have each other makes it all worth it. The numerous letters I've sent, thank you for loving me anyway. I know I seemed crazy, probably majority of the time, but it's okay, because you love me still. You still accept me. I can't tell you how grateful I am for your endless love and support, even so far away. You were focused on so many things, all of them so very dear and important to the Lord, but you still found time to tell me hi, that you love me and that you're doing okay. All those sweet gifts, surprise emails and the little things you did to prepare me before you left, are some of my very favorite things. I cannot believe how much you truly cared about me before you left, and even while you were gone. You were and still are an amazing missionary. You may not wear the name tag anymore, but your missionary work does not end at the releasing. It goes on forever and ever, and I'm so grateful to have an example like you. Someone who inspires me to be better about my studies, my prayers, and the Christlike attributes I should strive to obtain. Thank you for serving a mission, and for making that choice on your own. You could have chosen so many different ways in life, and not that any of those are wrong, I'm just really glad you chose to serve a mission. It has changed you in such a great way, yet you're still the same Brady I love. I love you and I'm so grateful to have a blessing like you in my life.


And finally,
To all MG's; current and/or pre-mission:
Hold on. Do not let go. If this is a decision you have made, stick to it. A lot of people have asked me if I have dated and waited, and I can honestly say yes. I've gone on dates, and seriously dated someone. I won't go into details, but going on dates helped me meet people and have friends. It was a great time to grow and learn, and it just so happens Institute really helps you :) Attend institute, make it a priority. I did, and I found myself graduated from Institute. Who knew that was possible? Anyway, stick to your church meetings. Go to every.single.hour. even if you're sitting alone. Stay strong in your relationship with your Father in Heaven. Make prayer a first priority, not a last resort. A Book of Mormon that is falling apart, usually belongs to someone who isn't. Hold that book dear to your heart, it will get you through everything. Consistently read your patriarchal blessing. It's purpose is to help you on your way in life, and it definitely comforted me when I needed it most. Stay close to family and friends. Stay busy. I cannot stress that enough. Staying busy helps the days go by faster, and soon, you'll find yourself at the airport.

Don't give up. Even when the nights are hard. When you cry yourself to sleep because your heart aches for a hug. A simple hug. When you didn't get a letter, or haven't gotten one in a month or more. When you think he's forgotten you because other girls are getting a package every month, or 7 letters in 1 week. When you meet waiter haters, and you get the same statements from them as everyone else, "A lot can happen in two years," or "You're really going to wait for him?" and you proudly, yet feeling somewhat lonely, say, "yes." Because you love your missionary, don't give up. When you meet other boys, and they either shun you because you have a missionary, don't care and still want to date you, don't give up. You'll meet boys who are simply nice, and want to be your friend. Just remember to make a decision if things start getting serious with someone, because someone will get hurt. You will, and either your mish or the other guy will. Pray about it. Just don't give up.

They come home ladies. They truly do. No matter all the tears, sleepless nights, the countless "I-miss-you"'s, the, "can't-wait-to-hear-from-you"'s in all the letters you handwrite weekly. All the emails that talk of his mission, the pictures that are shared. It is all worth it. 

You will survive this waiting. And it is possible to wait for someone and/or something for 2 years (or more). You can hold strong, and still be in love, in a long-distance relationship. You will meet people who won't support you, but you always meet one more person who does. One more person who understands, one more person to hug and comfort you. Keep going, stay strong, and stay close to the Lord. The wait does come to an end, you just have to be patient, and understanding. Your sweetheart will come home. You will get to hold their hand again, maybe even kiss them ;) You will get to see their smiling, shining face. You will get to know what it feels like to be with them again. They won't be going anywhere when they get home, and it's the best feeling ever. You can do this. You can make it. My success story is just an addition to the thousands out there.

Don't give up ladies, you can make it. :)



Again, thank you to everyone for your love and support. I appreciate it, and it isn't forgotten.

The Wait Is Over...

Here is the post you've been waiting to read, and I've been waiting to write.

Basically it was a long day. I'd been tracking his flights. His first one left late, but he got home 20 minutes earlier than scheduled. I arrived at the airport early, and his family showed up after me. We all waited, and talked and then his uncle walked over, showed me that his flight had landed and I lost it. I couldn't stop crying. My mom said, "it's 9:27," my heart stopped and we all finally walked over towards the escalators and I stood REALLY far back (you can see that in the pictures) and I was sobbing. I couldn't stop crying, I was SO happy. Everyone else was all clumped together and I just stood in the back, waiting.

Then my sister yelled, "THERE HE IS!!!!" And I continued to cry. He came down the escalator just smiling and I just sobbed. Hahahaha, of course he spent time hugging his family. It was really good to see him with them again. He hasn't seen his older brother in 4 years because his brother was on a mission when Brady left. I just patiently waited for the handshake that I knew was coming. I had no expectation of him hugging me, but it was awkward because I felt like everyone knew this "moment" was coming. Finally he had hugged everyone in his family, and I continued to wait patiently like I had been for 2 years. His dad walked over and said, "Brady!" and pointed at me, LITERALLY everyone's heads turned and looked right at me, (cue awkward moment) and Brady said, "I know" and then made his way over and shook my hand. He BARELY touched my fingers, and I just cried while saying hi. Hahahahahaha I felt dumb but oh well.

We stood by each other as people took pictures, and then he stepped away for a moment. The photographer that was there, but didn't grab a photo of us, because there were so many people around, so after letting him talk to family members, and watching him sneak looks at me. I seriously couldn't stop staring at him. He looks SO good. And he sounds the same, talks the same, jokes the same, he just is my best friend, but older. more mature, and just looks really good. Every time we made eye contact, it'd be for a split second and then he'd look away. I am so happy he kept sneaking looks at me, it just brought me comfort.

ANYWAY, the photographer brought him over to grab more photos of us. She kind of stepped back and I just looked at him and I thought, "I HAVE to say something!!!! I HAVE to say something to him. I can't just let him walk away without saying something to him!!" So I said, "So.... tomorrow, you get released at 10... is it alright with you if I go?" (even though his mom and I talked about it already and I was planning on going) and he looked at me and said, "yeah" and nodded his head all cute. I just died. He's SO cute. I can't stop saying that. Hahahahaha :) oh it was so good to talk to him. even if it wasn't for very long, or really about anything. we all just kind of stood around and talked, and I just couldn't stop staring at him.  We finally said our goodbyes, and I headed home, anxiously awaiting 10 AM the next morning :)

I have felt really sick to my stomach all night and I just want to die. I only got 3 hours of sleep, and I'm getting so anxious to see him this morning. I feel like I'm going to pee my pants all over again. But I cannot tell you how unbelievably happy I am, to have him home. Even though he will probably be weird for a while, and we'll have to get to re-know each other, I am so happy. He's real. He's home. He's my sweetheart, grown up. This is over. It's finally over.

I'm going to write a thank you post/letter to my MG's later this weekend. I'm still feeling a bit overwhelmed and I'm sure he is too. It's been quite the experience but I don't regret a single moment.

He's home everyone! He's finally home...




So grateful for Jen, with Simply Sublime Photography for taking pictures for me. For catching these moments that I'll never forget. I'm so grateful for her kindness and willingness to do so. She's so sweet and if you're looking for a photographer, give her a call! :) I'm grateful for my sisters and my mom, for being there to support me, and to support Brady. I could not have done that without them. I'm grateful for Brady's family, for their love and support and for welcoming me to the family, even while he was gone. I'm so grateful to know every single one of them. I'm grateful to Brady, for serving an honorable mission, for making that decision that will bless him immensely for a lifetime. He is a shining example to me, and my heart is overflowing with love for him. I'm so proud of him.

Until next time....

The House of the Lord

I went to the Temple today, and it was wonderful! There was nobody there. Well of course, the workers but I was in and out in about 30 minutes. I love going to the Temple. I sure do miss going with my friends from school though.

When I got there, the man at the door greeted me and said, "Welcome to the House of the Lord." Now I'm not going to make this a big deal, but nobody has ever said that when I've walked in. They've always said, "Welcome to the Temple." which is basically the same thing, but there is just a different meaning and tone, and feeling to the words, "House of the Lord." When I was done, I walked up the stairs and the man had thanked me for my service. And that has never happened. Today was about service. It wasn't about going to find some big answer in my life. It wasn't about going to mark it off my weekly list. It was about doing service. It was about doing baptisms and confirmations for those who have yet to receive it. It was about the House of the Lord. And I'm so grateful that I get to be apart of that. That I get to go inside his beautiful Houses. His Spirit is there, and I love it. I took some pictures, so I'll share them, but I'm very glad I made a trip to the Temple today :) I can't wait to go with my sweetheart!

Relief Society Broadcast 2012

My aunt had some extra tickets to women's conference, so Abby and I got to go! We got there late, but it's okay, it was just as awesome! :) Here, I'll share some notes I took:


RS Conference FALL 2012

Atonement is evidence of HF love for us. 

 Carole M Stephens: We are bound to Him, by covenant. Check the condition of your heart, for the allowance of the Spirit. Are you letting your sisters down spiritually? How are you lifting them and their cart up? (Trek story) Are you running back, leaving your cart and helping others carry theirs..? (Daughter of God song) Relief society prepares us for eternal life. 

 Linda S. Reeves: You are not alone; you are an important daughter in His family. They feel the depth of our suffering and through that depth, we can feel of their love. Cry. You cannot do this alone. Pour out your heart. You need your Father in Heaven. You cannot live life alone. Tell him everything, and he will say "That was all I needed to know." When he calls them home, everything will be alright. He has not forgotten you. Whatever sin, weakness, pain, struggle, trial you're going through. He loves you. He knows what you're going through. Cast your burdens upon him, tell him how you feel, your pain and afflictions, and then turn them to him. Come unto Him. 

President Eyring: Cherish one another, comfort one another, gain instruction that we may gather together in heaven. 1)care for each other 2) teach each other and be taught 3) sit down together with God. You have responded to the Lord's call, to relieve each other. What comes next for willing hands to do? All of you are sisters and beloved daughters of our father. Cherish, watch over, and comfort each other. Relief society is in charge. Do not worry. Keep the faith! You will abide The Lord. When The Lord lets us encounter someone in distress, we honor that opportunity! Do all you can to help others. The plan of salvation can be your guide in tough decisions. Gain instruction. "If thou endure it well, God shall exalt thee on high." Care for each other in the pure love of Christ. The Savior is always in the circle, as we invite Him. "Please, come sit here with me." He hears as answers your prayers of faith, for guidance and help. You will be strengthened and surprised to know; The spirit will comfort you and let you know when you wonder, did I do enough!?

Sorry, my notes are everywhere and just thoughts jotted down.
It was so amazing. I cried. And lot of people around me were crying, so I didn't feel as silly. President Eyring rocked it. He really said so many things I needed to hear. The part that I remember the most was about visiting teaching. I haven't been yet, and I got my assignment about 3 months ago. I keep using the excuse that I can't because I have school and work, but there are many, many other ways I can visit the sisters I'm supposed to VT. Sometimes I feel nervous, awkward, and weird, because I'm so young.. ya know? But it doesn't matter. I'm a sister in the Relief Society, I have a calling and it is my duty to serve others, especially those I'm called to visit teach. I was really impressed by the Spirit and how strong it was, you could definitely feel it the minute you walked in the conference center. We are so blessed and so lucky to be living in these Latter-days, and having the opportunities to go downtown and see our leaders speak, live. It was so great! They had us sing, I Stand All Amazed together, and it was amazing. I bawled my eyes out, and I couldn't even sing. The power of the women there tonight was incredible. We really are apart of something great, and I'm so thankful.

Abby and I went and got dinner after, and headed home for some dove chocolate. Yum! All in all, it was a great night, and I'm SO excited for this coming weekend. General Conference rocks!!

You NEVER Check Your Religion At the Door!

NOT EVER!

So Elder Holland is pretty much the man.
He's amazing.
He gave a CES fireside tonight and boy, was it good.

It's always good. Elder Holland is one of my very favorites. I can't remember exactly which talk it was that changed my life and always made me remember him. I'm pretty sure it was his Book of Mormon talk. So much power in his testimony, such a great example. Something he said in his talk changed my life forever. I was in the stage of deciding whether or not I wanted the church in my life (if you can believe that.) So when I heard these words, it really got me thinking, "Am I in this or not? Am I going to serve the Lord or not? Am I going to declare what I know? Or let it all go to waste pretending it isn't true?" He said this:

"I want it absolutely clear when I stand before the judgment bar of God that I declared to the world … that the Book of Mormon is true."

Boom.
That was it.
That's all it took.
And ever since that moment, Elder Holland has always been my favorite. Every single talk he has ever given, has changed me for the better. I'm so grateful for him, his example, love and kindness and his guidance and how crazy in-tune with the Spirit he is.

So, one day (a year later) I decided to write him a letter. I got his address and wrote him a quick letter about the events that had been happening in my life this past year, (losing Andy, heartbreak, running, church, happiness, sadness, life, finishing the BOM, graduating, etc.) and told him how grateful I was to him, for changing my life. For giving me hope and encouragement to keep moving forward. And one Sunday, my roommate Katie texted me and said I had a special letter waiting for me when I got home from Church. I was beyond excited, when I got home, I looked at it, seeing it was from the church and immediately assumed it was something to do with my ward; aka-nothing important. But I turned the envelope over and it said, "From the Office of Elder Jeffrey R. Holland" and I about pee'd my pants!! Could this be true? Could this be real? So I opened it up, and this was inside:

Shut the front door. This is handwritten from Elder Holland. Basically one of my prized possessions. Hahahaha, silly I know. Anyway, I have it hanging up to see always.

One last thing before I finish this loooooong blog post.
There's this quote, from one of his AMAZING talks that I live by. That my best friend Ashley and I live by. I have it hanging up on my wall so I see it every day when I wake up. It's what gets me through. It's what keeps me going when I want to give up.

“Don't you quit. You keep walking, you keep trying, there is help and happiness ahead. Some blessings come soon. Some come late. Some don't come until heaven. But for those who embrace the gospel of Jesus Christ, they come. It will be alright in the end. Trust God and believe in Good Things to Come.”

And there it is ladies and gents. Whenever I'm going through a hard time, I just think of that first line. I usually text Ashley and say, "Tell me I can't quit. I can't. Elder Holland said I can't quit. I have to keep going." And then she'll recite the quote to me, and we'll talk for a bit about how I can keep going. Hahaha it's kind of become our thing, our quote. Which I love. I love that her and I share the same love and admiration towards Elder Holland. Makes conference time fun!

Anyway, I wrote him another letter last year thanking him for this quote. Telling him how much it has changed my life and how important it is to me. It was a short, but sweet thank you note. I'm pretty much into writing the general authorities. Ask anyone. But I do it because they deserve to know that what they're doing is changing lives, and that we are truly grateful for them, as members of this Church. And one day, a package showed up at my door. From the officer of Elder Jeffrey R. Holland. I again, about pee'd my pants. And inside was this beautiful book. And of course, I already had my own copy but seeing a second copy from him was amazing, and I just started bawling when I saw this:

I literally started bawling.
The tears would not stop coming.

He's so amazing.
To take time out of his day,
and mail this to me, when I wasn't expecting ANYTHING in return.
To know that the Lord blesses us with leaders who truly are watching over us and think of us often. They are doing all they can to take care of our every single need. Oh how I treasure these things.

And finally, his CES fireside talk. It isn't online yet, just the video. But I highly recommend you watch it. The famous line is the title of this blog post. He talks of judgement, being a better person, a better example, accepting those around us, and standing for what we believe in. Not "checking our religion at the door." - and as always, says it so powerfully, and loud that it just gives you goose bumps.

I'm so grateful for this gospel, and for Elder Holland and all that he teaches.
Who's excited for conference??
ME!!!!!!
:]

My 68th Letter

"I love getting pictures from you babe!"

"I can't believe how close I am to coming home! I'm glad I'm going to be training, because it will definitely help me to stay focused, as well as help me continue to improve right up until the end. It will be a little bit more difficult, but I'm sure it will be fun at the same time."

"Babe! Guess what?! Only 2 more fast Sundays! :O I'm so excited!"

"Training has been really good so far. I hope we can see some success really soon, cause I really just want to help him build his faith."

"Love you so much Babe!"

He also sent me this picture.

No explanation.

But I think it's downright adorable.

Oh he is just so good looking.

I just want to hug him.

And kiss his cute cheek.

I can't believe we only have 73 days left.

♥

That Killer Smile

So I met this girl on FB.

Waiting For A Missionary Group.

She's so sweet.

She lives in England.

Specifically the Manchester Mission area.

So every now and then she'll ask me where he is.

And sometimes she has her friends find him for me.

Well, this friend of mine went on a 6-week mini-mission.

She served in the Manchester area, and I pretty much thought that was cool.

Little did I know she would find Mr. Ziegler for me.

And she did.

Let's take a look.

What a cutie.

Let's take a closer look at him.

Just so smiley.

:)

Melts my heart every time I see it.

Never gets old.

I asked her if she said anything and she said,

"He looked shocked. A bit confused as to why I wanted a picture with him. Then I told him I knew you and he said, oh okay! sure! He was just so smiley!" - Ohhhh. She's so lucky.

I can't wait to see the smile for myself soon.

77 Days folks.

But before I go,
let's see a few more pictures of my hottie boyfriend.

Over and out.

3 Months Left!! :)

I'll start counting down on the 22nd after today.

I'll be seeing you so soon sweetheart.

I love you SO much.

I can't believe all that we've been through.
We've come so far since that day.
And I thought I loved you then.

I'm so very proud of you. And all the hardships you've encountered and all the fabulous times you've had. I hope you learn so much training this new Elder you're with. He's very lucky to have a teacher like you. Your example is amazing, and your testimony is firm and strong. I've loved watching you grow, and I only hope I'll get to see you continue to grow. The Lord is very proud of you and so grateful for your time and service. All those lives you've changed, all the generations you've saved, because you shared the one thing that makes you happiest, and now they have that same happiness, forever. :) You are amazing, and I know you'll continue to work hard these last 3 months, and make the best of the end.

I'll miss running to the mailbox every Friday. I'll miss checking my phone every Monday for your email. I'll miss putting stickers on my chart, and eating M&M's. I'll miss seeing cute pictures of you on your mission. I'll miss hearing about my silly friends that live in England, trying to find you to snag some pictures ;) I'll miss it. I'll miss this journey. But I won't miss it too much. I'm so excited to hug you again. To see your smile in person. To hold your hand, and to hear your laugh, and voice. I'm so excited to know how safe I am in your arms again. I am so lucky to have someone like you in my life. I truly am blessed. You're amazing. You're perfect. You're mine. Forever. And I wouldn't want it any other way.

 "Now you're my whole life. Now you're my whole world. And I just can't believe the way I feel about you. Like the river meets the sea, stronger than it's ever been, we've come so far since that day, and I thought I loved you then."

I look forward to seeing you soon, babe.

I love you.

House of Example

I went to the Temple today, and to my surprise, there was NOBODY there!! I was in and out in like 30 minutes, which made me appreciate the days where I'm there for 2+ hours, a lot more! Usually they have appointments on Saturdays but it was so dead!

Anyway, they were all so sweet to me. They even gave me about five extra minutes before going into the font to "ponder" what I need, and to say a prayer if I'd like. It was so sweet! The women are always so kind as well :) I love that they all lead by example! That they love and care for every single youth that walks through those front doors, to come and serve. It's an amazing feeling, and such a wonderful site to see. The Temple workers truly see us as God's children, and it shows in how they treat us. I love the people there :) I wish I could write them all a thank you letter!

What a beautiful day to have spent at the Temple! :)

My Blog Is 2 Years Old!

Can you believe it?

I've been blogging for 2 straight years now!

You can read all about the first chapter of this story here.

I can definitely say I've come a long way. I graduated high school, started dating Brady, went on loads of adventures with him and then he got his mission call. I got my braces off, moved down to college, came back all weekend, got close with my roommates, started my first semester of school, celebrated birthdays, conference, adventures, dates, skype calls, text messages, elder babe, etc. Then it was the farewell, my final goodbye, first finals, christmas break, emails/letters, second semester, nephew was born, spring break to disneyland, goodbye to roommates, moved home, got a job at a CU, mother's day phone call, moved to the singles ward, got close with my best friend, started school close to home, dated someone, went on a few dates, made new best friends, country swang, christmas break, three packages, ring, cruising, and here I am ready for my last summer without Brady.

I did a little summary, and I know I didn't cover it all. I can't even begin to try and tell you all that I have learned these past 2 years, but I can tell you it's been a lot. I've grown so much from that first post, and even this post. I'm a new Ashley and I love it :) I love blogging. I love blog stalking, I love blog design, I love the fact that it's my journal and someday I can print it off into a book! I'm so grateful to all my readers who have commented (given feedback) or who simply just read it to read it, and maybe nobody reads my blog, but I'm grateful for those who support me and my story :)

I wouldn't want it any other way.

I have a beautiful life,

and I ask God's forgiveness if I don't love it enough.

My name is Ashley, and this is my story :)

My Celestial Room

I went and did baptisms tonight and let me tell you, it was just downright amazing. I went after work and barely made it in time, but still grateful I was there. It used to be weird when I went by myself, but now I love it!! (Do I say that every time I talk about the Temple?)

While I was waiting in line, one of the workers asked if I'd like to help out and do some family names, so I thought, why not? I'm here to spend time at the Temple, I don't mind being here long. They handed me the names and I gathered my Temple clothing, and went to change. I always get extremely excited to see the dates and where they are from. It's something I look forward to with every visit; I feel it makes it more personal for me.

But before I got my clothing, they have you go into what used to be the "Prayer Room" and they give you instructions on where to go. I've been so many times I could prolly repeat back to the worker everything. But they've changed things this year and the presidency doesn't want anyone to feel put on the spot for saying a prayer, but if they'd like to, they are more than welcome to. But she talked with me about what to do and then she said something to me, that has never and I mean never struck me before. She told me that when I was through with my service, if I wanted to stay at the Temple and read scriptures or ponder/pray, that I was more than welcome to, and that, pointing to the waiting area, it was my celestial room. I almost started crying. I've never thought about it that way.

Sometimes I get discouraged because I feel too old, or I just want to get married already and it makes me miss Brady that much more, but I've never thought of the waiting area in the baptistry as my celestial room. It made the experience more special and I thought about that statement throughout the entire service. I read the some amazing things in the magazines that I took a look at. When I decided to take a look at the names of the people I'd be helping, I noticed something that only a missionary girlfriend would notice; they were all from England! Yup, right where my man is! Meant to be? Yes! Ironic? Mhm! Hahahaha, and stinkin' awesome? Of course! I love when that happens to me :)

While I was waiting for my turn, there was a girl before me who just had one family name to do, and that they were just going to do her confirmation right there in the baptistry. They do that a lot at Salt Lake, and I've witnessed it before, but this time was different. When she sat in that chair, and all the worthy men, holding the priesthood, surrounding her, I lost it. I completely lost it, and I've never gotten emotional over something like that because I've seen it so much. I don't know what it was, but there was just something so holy and pure about that moment. I love that everything about the Temple is white, and purity and holiness. It makes me feel so close to Heaven I can't even describe it.. I tried my best to hide the tears, for' it was my turn. But I just pictured Heaven being that way. Nothing but purity, happiness, and Temple work :)

I love this gospel, and I love the small blessings/tender mercies of the Lord in my life and I'm so grateful for all the constant/little reminders from Him, letting me know that He is watching over me and is every mindful of my needs. I love my Father in Heaven very much and I'm so grateful for Temples and my testimony of them is strengthened each time I go.

General Conference 2012

Me and my best friend Abby were lucky enough to attend the Sunday Afternoon session of General Conference 2012! It was such a blast, and so very inspiring. There were amazing talks given, and the choir was stunning. I've never had so much chills when listening to them sing!! This gospel is true, I just know it :) My testimony has definitely been strengthened this weekend and I'm extremely sad that I have to wait 6 more months for this to come around... I wish it happened more often during the year, but that's why they print magazines to have us add to our personal study for 6 months! We are such a lucky and blessed people :) I have so many new goals, and things to do for myself and the Lord's kingdom! More posts about the talks coming up soon over here! I hope you all have a fabulous conference weekend, because I know I did!

Young Women General Conference 2012

Can I just tell you how incredible tonight was?

Incredible.

I'm so grateful for this gospel, for all of it's amazingness, and I cannot stress that enough. I would be nowhere in life without it. It is who I am, and who I continue to become each and every single day. The Lord is always with me, and the Holy Ghost is leading and guiding me. My Father does in fact hear my prayers and I've witnessed miracles from the power of prayer. Heavenly Father has not forgotten me.. and he has definitely not forgotten you.

I had the beautiful opportunity to attend the Young Women General Broadcast with my mother and sisters. It was a beautiful night and Temple Square was perfect. I cannot smile enough when I think about it :) The sun was setting perfectly behind the Temple and the gorgeous flowers are starting to pop up. It was amazing to see all the young women, with their mothers and leaders, grandmothers, best friends, siblings, etc. It's been a dream of mine since I can remember, to attend the Young Women General Conference inside the Conference Center. We found a good number of people from our neighborhood and it was so cute to see the young women that I've loved and missed so dearly. The feeling of the Spirit was incredible.

I really miss young women's. It was where I grew closest to my Heavenly Father. It was where I was safest, it was my escape from the world, it was where I felt most loved and I knew and could see my potential in so many things. I knew what I deserved, I was diligent in so many aspects of my life. It was the happiest years of my life and I miss them very much. It was a little bitter-sweet because I wish I could go back to those days. Sometimes I don't feel like a "young woman" because I'm a "young adult" but I have to remind myself, that I'm still a Daughter of God. No matter what I physically look like, due to my age, I spiritually will always be a Daughter of God. I can always where my young women medallions and honor bee with pride because I worked so hard for those, and I do not regret the service and sacrifice I made to receive that; from my Heavenly Father. I cannot stress it enough to young women, how important it is that they stay involved in young women's. Serve their fellow sisters and to work as hard as possible to keep the faith, and the relationship with their Heavenly Father strong. Life gets so busy and so hard so quickly, that you soon forget things and then you wonder "Why? Why me?"

One of my very favorite moments (included in the collage above) was walking towards the Temple to take some pictures before the session started. We walked past a beautiful family dressed in white. They had just got sealed to one another. It included the father, the mother, and their 4 beautiful children. I almost cried. I cannot believe I just watched Heaven walk by me. To see a family dressed in white, pure and holy as they were, knowing they just became a forever family really touched my heart. I cannot wait to see all of my family in white, together, forever. I cannot imagine life without, nor in the life hereafter.

My favorite part of the entire meeting is when the prophet walks in. And there is complete silence. Every stands, as we watch this cute elderly man walk in. I've never seen anyone, or known anyone as holy as he is. I love his smile, and his caring heart, full of love and his willingness to serve each and everyone of us. I'm so grateful for the Young Women General Presidency. They are beautiful women, and I loved everything they had to say. I'm getting very anxious about the General Conference magazine to come out in May... I almost am impatient. I'm seriously so blessed :)

It is incredible to be who I am today. To be a Daughter of a loving Heavenly Father. I love my life, and I love this gospel, I cannot live without it. I'm so grateful to have had the program of Young Women's growing up. It taught me exactly what I needed at exactly the right moments. I'm grateful for all of my leaders past and present, that continue to be a beautiful example in my life :) I'm really excited to move on to Relief Society to become the women, wife and mother that Heavenly Father needs me to be for my future, and I'm extremely grateful for all the women I have as beautiful examples in my life :) What a wondrous thing!

Arise & Shine Forth

Temple Tuesday

A group of friends from Institute got together on Tuesday, and headed down to good ol' downtown SLC for some baptisms and spirituality :) It was a beautiful day! It was sunny and warm and just perfect :) Temple Square is my favorite place in the whole wide world. I could live there. In fact, I wish I did. No joke. I love the peace it brings, the happiness, the truth, the history, and of course, the Temple. I cannot wait to be sealed there for time and all eternity. I blog about that a lot but it's been my dream since I was a little girl.

We got downtown with some time to spare, so we just walked around and took photographs until it was time to head to the Temple to do some work :) We listened to this old man talk for a while, he told us he reads the Book of Mormon every 8 days. Meaning, he reads 30 chapters everyday and it takes him 1 hour and 20 minutes to do so. He has read the Book of Mormon 576 times, and has never missed a day. It was incredible! It's always such a wonderful experience! I truly felt the Spirit and I know those we helped are very happy and accepted the gospel! I'm so glad I have the opportunity to serve in that way, for my brothers and sisters in Heaven. After we all headed down to Gateway to each some food, and then back to the Joseph Smith Memorial Building to watch the new Joseph Smith: the Restoration movie! I like the new one, but not as much as the old one. I cried, at the same point that I do every time I watch it. It's such a testimony builder and always has me thinking about my faith and trust in God, and how my relationship with Him is. It's such an inspiring video and I'm so grateful for Joseph Smith and all he did for us.After that we all headed home, where I finished dinner and ended me exhausting night in an interview with my homeward bishop. Yep, that's right, I'm going back home :) I'm really excited and I just feel that this is where I should be and should've been all along... :)