Three-year celebration: Bring on 2009!

Just when you thought that New Years Eve couldn't get any better. I would like to announce that I have been in America for three years...today. I wish you could've seen me get off the plane and drive through Salt Lake City. I was excited. I got picked up by some friends, two sisters that I served with in Adelaide, and that was the beginning. So there you go. That's my story. Really, I just wanted to write something on the blog today because it's the last day in December.

And here is one of the first pictures I posted to Facebook. Thank you EFY 2006--"The Greatest Gift" I think I like this photo because it gives me motivation to lose weight--I wish I was still that cool.

Back to the Office

Hmmm...so, I'm sitting in my office located inside the Wilkinson Student Center. Why? I don't think that anyone else is around except Alyssa (one the fabulous receptionists). I've heard a steady flow of people coming in the doors and I'm sorta sad noone that I know has come through to say 'Hi.' During the year, I love to get visitors. Even when I have fifty million things to do, I love sitting down and having a chat. This whole experience isn't going to last that long. Sad day. So I have to live it up NOW!

Anyway, a few people in the office have already started writing up their applications for President and Vice President of BYUSA. I can't believe how fast everything has flown by--it seems like yesterday that Chance and I were dreaming up our campaign. I mean, remember this?


I do. Ha ha...you might notice that I was more tanned in this photo (due to standing outside in the sun for five full days). Funny that this whole experience is getting set to start all over again. Not for me or Chance, but for a bunch of other lucky candidates. From here, I think I need to give a bit of advice...but I'll reserve that for another time or debate. Look forward to it.

Happy Boxing Day!

I think that you're all missing out. Boxing Day is a traditional holiday celebrated throughout the British Commonwealth countries; it's the day after Christmas. Here's what I found on Wikipedia about it:

"Boxing Day dates back to past centuries when it was the custom for the wealthy to give gifts to employees or to people in a lower social class, most especially to household servants and other service personnel. The name has numerous folk etymologies^[3].

As with Christmas itself, some elements of Boxing Day are also likely related to, and ultimately derived from, the ancient Roman Saturnalia, which also had elements of gift giving and social role reversal."

If any of you were my "employees" or in a lower class than me, you could expect me to give you gifts today. However, because you're all in a higher social class, I'm waiting for you to give me something. Ha ha. Sometimes I crack myself up. Anyway, this post wasn't intended to make you feel bad for not getting me anything--truth be told, I'm not sure that I need anything. I feel very blessed.

The reason why I started writing this little Boxing Day wish...is because of the New Zealand Christmas memories it evokes. For some reason, I have remembered some of the things that I did in New Zealand as a child. Nothing too flashy, no Christmas re-enactment or putting cookies out on the fireplace. This made me think that maybe our family didn't have anything. But, we did! I was comforted and I also want my future family to have a few Christmas traditions...my wife will probably have to help me on that one. Anyway, I hope that you enjoyed your Christmases. You deserve it. Have a great Boxing Day too. Love ya.

Christmas Eve at SunRiver

Hmmm...if you are reading this, you're among the few people that know I'm not going back to New Zealand. I'm 'good as gold.' I got a call from Mum and Dad already today (because it's Christmas in New Zealand right now). Yes, I do love and miss them BUT no point dwelling on the negatives right? Where does that get ANYONE? Nowhere. You should try going nowhere--it doesn't look like too much fun at all.

So, I've been here in St. George since Monday and I'm loving it. Here's a little photo of a house that sorta looks like the Steven's House. For those of you who don't the Stevens, you are really missing out. I feel so blessed to have met them and try not to take anything I receive from them for granted. Physically and spiritually, the Stevens live a simple life. I am constantly in awe of the things they teach me; one day I will be in a position to write a book about them.

I think that I've already mentioned the real purpose of Christmas and that's all that really matters. Regardless of what goes on in life, remembering the Savior will help you. Remembering the Savior has helped me--many times.

Anyway, here's my little welcome to the new look blog page. I decided that I could be bothered coming up with my own blog name. While I was at it, I also decided that I could come up with a new template and blog color. Ultimately, I'm in-charge of this page. So, there you go. Merry Christmas to the four (or five) 'mates' who actually read it--love ya!

Help me pick a new name: I can't be bothered

Well, today I was going to just think up a new name and then change my blog because I was bored. But then I realized, I can't be bothered. So, I'm going to leave it to ya'll to help me think up something great. I gave you some ideas over here-------->

What do you reckon?

I'm going home!

Ok, so the news has finally arrived. I'm going home for the Christmas break--I just got the text from New Zealand. However, here's the dilemma: I need a ride to LA on the 19th. I'm working on it!

Finals, part two

Yes, they're still going. I even managed to survive the day from heck last Wednesday. I have two assignments due and four tests to complete before next Tuesday. However, I'm still going to write this quick little post and pretend like someone is wasting their time reading this.

Today I went to school, after studying for most of the day, and did some stuff around the office etc. Then I realized that I needed to go to the Packing and Shipping at the bookstore to send a tape to a mission buddy. I went down there and an older gentleman was ahead of me talking up a storm with another guy. After sending the tape (of my mission president's training) to Nevada, I overheard the cashier asking the old man how he'd be carrying all the boxes she prepared for him. Anyway, long story short, I helped him carry the boxes to the car. What was cool about this little detour from the schedule was how our little discussion on the way to the car. I found out that he was a former professor at BYU and grew up in Pleasant Grove. Nothing really life changing, but nice. Just nice.

I wanted to blog about this because we have opportunities to meet people everyday. We have chances to make friends, even with the most unassuming people, throughout our whole lives. Think about doing that once or twice this Christmas season. Love ya.

Finals

I hate them (I contemplated saying that differently, but I need to be more direct. At least that's what my last leadership analysis said--I don't articulate my thoughts well in meetings).

If someone knows how to, please help me survive this week by stopping time so that I can catch up! Oh, and remember how I promised Brother Stevens that I would write in my journal today.

Yes, it's Christmas!

I can't help but sing songs everywhere I go. When I left on my mission, my Mum said that she knew wasn't there because the house was quiet in the morning. Apparently, I used to sing at the top of my lungs all aroung the house. So funny. That doesn't seem like me. Ha ha ;) Really?

Anyway, I love that it's Christmas time. I also love the First Presidency! I know that most of you saw the devotional they gave--I'm going to try hard to remember the real purpose of Christmas. Something that gets lost in all the commercialism of the season. Just like President Uchtdorf said, we can't let anything distract us from the Savior. I'm going to increase my efforts to remember that this year.

President Monson's story was also really touching. You know the one about the old women who looked out the window longingly saying, "I know my son will be coming someday." How sad. Sidenote: It actually reminded me of this time our young men's and young women's went caroling at an old folks/mentally retarded peoples home (not sure if that is politically correct to say). While we were singing, this old lady was bent forward in her chair and with a really winced, angry face mouthed the words "Shut up, Shut up, Shut up." I nearly laughed my way out of there. I felt so sorry for her. Oh the memories. Moral of the story: Keep being friends with old people.

When I should be doing homework...

I really hate when I don't do homework. I have two tests, one paper, and one presentation due next Wednesday. What am I going to do? Furthermore, why am I writing a blog post? Probably because when I look at my paper, I feel slightly sick. Right now, I'm killing time so that I can go down to the Peaks Ice Arena and play for the rest of the night. That's right--Freeze Festing it up tonight people. For those of you who don't know, Freeze Fest is an event we hold in the fall that opens up the Ice Arena for some fun times. I think we might even have free food for ya'll.

Some people have been asking what I'm doing for Christmas. Right now, I don't know. My mother and the family in New Zealand are doing a little bit of fundraising. Ha ha--they are selling meals called "Hangi." Hangi is really the name of a traditional native form of cooking the food, it's SO good. Anyway, if they raise enough money, I'll probably be leaving on December 20th to go back home. However, this whole thing is only 80% confirmed. We'll see...it should all work out great. Here's a picture of a Hangi being completed. Yes, it is cooked in the ground, under the dirt.

Otherwise, life is going pretty well for me right now. I feel like I'm accomplishing most of the things that I need to. Just trying to make sure that we step it up for the rest of our time in office. People are already discussing teams for elections and it's all pretty exciting to tell you the truth. I'm sad that this will be over in a few months. Once the new presidency has been elected, we end up taking a back seat. But, I'm still really excited for what we are doing, we have a few good solid months (one semester) to fulfill our commitments!

Got published.

So, I've looked over histories of past BYUSA presidents and found that a few of them have sent letters to the Daily Universe Editorial board. Because we started the BYUSA "Shout Out," I have neglected to publish anything in the Newspaper. Until today. If you want to click here, you'll be able to read my little Christmas note to you all.

I sincerely hope that you enjoy the Christmas season and 10 points to the person who knows which friend I'm talking about in this 'viewpoint.' Hint: She probably doesn't read my blog. Love you!

I'm GRATEFUL

I was asked by a friend recently, "Do you know what you're going to blog about before you do it?" The honest answer, typically yes. So, today I'm turning over a new leaf. I'm going to change my style of blogging. I usually dump my weeks worth of stuff on the blog and expect that some of you may find some joy in that. I think if you're reading it, you probably were involved and maybe wanted to see that I valued that. I do, but the other few people that read my blog don't even want to read that. If that's the case, who wants to spend the time finding a photo and putting on the blog--not me! Anyway, this friend also said that some of you only use my blog to see who has updated...I'm not sure how I feel about that (that's neither bad nor good).

However, I really did just want to say how much fun I had over thanksgiving. I took some photos of the jeep and the RV (as big as my house) that I stayed in and the Stevens. All-in-all, I had an awesome time with some great turkey action in St. George. I have such a great life and I'm so grateful for all the blessings I've been blessed with!

Loving life...

You're probably going to laugh BUT this week our apartment failed our cleaning checks again. You know how you get checked once and then they came back. Well that was what we failed; however, remember how we spent over 8 hours scrubbing for the second time. No lies. I was on my hands and knees in the bathroom. Sick. I almost puked all over myself. Then, when we found out that we failed--it was all on.

First of all, we (as an apartment) lamented our sorrows by going to Taco Tuesday at Del Taco. After discussing the way that we were going to talk to our management, we came home and drafted a very 'legal' sounding letter that cited a breach of contract and, I'm ashamed to say, discrimination. My roommates thought it would be a good idea at the time, but I wasn't a fan after we had actually spoken to the management. You see, right after we failed, we checked other apartments that passed in our complex. We were failed on things that obviously weren't checked in the other apartments. We concluded that they obviously didn't like us for some reason--hence the discrimination note. You may think that we didn't get any love after we presented the management with it, however, WE DID! They said that they hoped we would pass next time and that they had made a mistake unrelated to the second check. So, we don't have to pay $200 or something to get the apartment re-cleaned.

So, after that (on Wednesday) Ryan, Jill, Katie, and I went to do some cookin' at the Bell tower. We made smores and then played around on "elfyourself.com"--so freaking funny. One of my favorites was when we put President Samuelson's face on an elf and that elf just happened to shimmy! Ha ha. The Bell Tower is a great place. During this most recent visit, and the many times before, we've gotten together and just partied like it was 1999. Two of the three times I've made smores at the Bell Tower, we had an actual dance party to the radio in my car...we were outside of the car when we danced.

This picture here is just before Garrett, Liz, Ian, Ryan, Jonathan, and I went to the movies. This was also the night that EVERYONE loved Ryan's hooded sweatshirt with Elvis' face on the hood part. I even freaked out when I thought Ryan was just staring at me and other people. We were also blessed with a visit from our Snow College buddies this week. Dan Anderson and his crew came and we just showed them all a good time. It was awesome.

On Friday I got to drive all the way out to Weber State University for a Utah Student Council President's meeting. They have an awesome campus and a brand spanking new Student Union Building--good times! Then after that, I made my way back to MC the first EVER Mr. BYU! We had some slightly inappropriate acts that made it past the screening process, but overall it was a great event. Hit up Village Inn for a late night dinner with Dani, Jody, and Lee, then went to bed! Oh my. I've never been to Village Inn for an actual meal (except when Mum, my sister, and I ate pie there). So we had heaps of fun ordering breakfast at 11pm at night. Don't hate.

Then we had the game versus Utah yesterday. I still have to give a shout out to the team. I think that we made mistakes, but no one (not even Utah State) gets out onto the field and intends to lose. Max and the team tried their hardest to win and I think that it's at times like this that we have to suck it up. Show the cougars your support because they are probably feeling the burn ten times more than you are.

Mission President's Shout out!

Many of you have likely never met my mission president or his wife. They are good people. President Strong teaches a Book of Mormon class and is an admissions counselor at BYU. Sister Strong is a great 'Mom'--you'd never even guess she's had nine children (faithful RM's and all married in the temple). You'll also probably not remember the song "I'll build you a rainbow" (featured in 'Seminary's Greatest Hits') but President Strong wrote it. Like I said, good people.

So, last night about 30 other former Adelaide missionaries and I went to his house and listened as he discussed the world that we are living in. We all sat in a circle made out of folding chairs in the basement of their Orem home and listened. I had heard many of the thoughts and scriptures he shared--but that didn't matter. I knew that what he was teaching us needed to be heard...really heard. Too often I find myself wandering around inside my head. I know that many people do that too--it's that period of thought when your eyes glaze over and you can only half hear what's actually going on. I wish you could all have felt of the spirit that was there. The spirit that always testifies of the truth.

Friends and Family, I care about you. I want you to know that I love you and want the best for you. As the whole world continues to fall down around us, we need to remember that labeling ourselves or putting ourselves into groups only DIVIDES us. You know what I'm talking about, I've done it before. "Oh, I'm not an American, I'm a New Zealander" "I'm a drama kid, not a sports jock" "I go to UVU, not BYU" We need to stop dividing/labeling/excluding ourselves because someday we need to become Zion (you know "One heart and one mind"). This will never happen if we continue in the pattern that has become so common place in our society--being different. We all want to be different. How about we err on the Lords side of the line to be different? I'm trying hard to have this be my motto in life. Give it a try, you'll feel much better. Remember who we are and follow the prophets.

Heber C. Kimball said:

If you have not got the testimony, live right and. . . call upon the Lord and cease not til you obtain it. . . The time will come when no man or woman will be able to endure on borrowed light. Each will have to be guided by the light within himself.

[Orson F. Whitney, Life of Heber C. Kimball (Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1967), pp. 449­450]

Shows and stuff

I had a pretty interesting week--I saw Aida with my friend Betsy on Wednesday. Remember how I knew 3-4 people in the cast of that show. I knew about my two young ambassador friends, Bailee and Josie, who played Aida; but I didn't know about my friend Alan Babcock (also known as the best Beyonce wannabe back-up dancer ever) who was "Man 3" or Mack Seiler who was also in the cast. All I can say is: Wow.

I just want to give a shout out to my friend Alan BECAUSE I never knew he was even in plays. Why has that not come up in conversation? Not only that, but his biography said that he'd been in about six other plays including "Fiddler on the Roof" and "West Side Story." Good show. Good show.

Then, I also went to "Savior of the World" for a ward activity (Lauren came too) on Thursday. I just want to say that "Savior of the World" was probably one of the best depictions of Jesus' birth and Resurrection that I've ever seen. I feel like the show really captured the essence of what happened. The spirit was amazing and I loved it. If you are in Salt Lake, go and see it--you will not regret it!

We also had our BYUSA retreat this last Friday and Saturday. For dinner on Friday we had make-your-own Costa Vida--for reals. When I first arrived from NZ, our bishopric used to treat us to Costa Vida salads after temple trips. We just loved it and so the suggestion was made for the retreat and then it was done. They did an amazing deal for us. We also enjoyed each others company, experienced trainings, and got feedback on what we can do better. We started a little dance party (good times)--we had some great moves and an even better show. We chatted with each other and some people watched "Kung Fu Panda." That's right it was a great little retreat.

Last night was pretty fun as well. First up, it started out with Ryan at BK's. Then we went to Liz Bell's Variety Show and long story short--we started a dance party outside the Carillon Bell Tower while making smores on the lights! It takes about 15 minutes to make them but you get to skip smelling like smoke and getting it all in your eyes. Following that we went to the movies...there were about 10 of us and we loved it. I also found out that my little brother Caleb was born the same day as Mr. Ryan Stewart--July 7th, 1986. I thought that was hilarious. In fact, if my brother was a member of the church he might have turned out like Ryan. Maybe. Here's a little picture of Caleb.

The Historical Week--good, bad, and the ugly

Well, first things first, America voted in a new President today--Barack Obama became the first black president of the United States. I guess a congratulations is in order then. I have to laugh because there are a lot of New Zealanders and other foreign nationals that support Mr. Obama. I really have not done too much research on him, but I think that this is a huge thing for the people of America. We shall see how it all goes.

Also, the Californian state proposition, to define marriage being between one man and one woman, passed this week. However, because the church wanted to uphold the sanctity of 'family' they were attacked by many angry people. People calling 'the Mormons' bigots and intolerant--what an interesting protest. Let's rally together to protest against a religion by misconstruing the message they've sent. Let's call people names and yell at them. Let's go to their headquarters in Salt Lake and march around for hours in the cold. Let's label them and make people hate them. Not good. I'm saddened to see what this world is coming to--this is not the civil rights movement and you cannot be compared to Black America. I'm all for civil, human, and any rights--unless you decide to impose on others (Murder, and hate rallies). My thoughts just go to my children (wherever they are); what a world they will have to live in.

Finally, you guessed it. Back into the President's box for the final home game of this season. What a little ripper. We got to chill with a few of the brethren: Elder Scott (we sang him "Happy Birthday"), Elder and Sister Perry (love them both), Elder Oaks, Elder Sybrowsky, Elder Dellenbach, and Elder Madsen (he mentioned that he had seen me in the "New Years Eve" video the church just made). What an opportunity?! They also really enjoyed having us cheer and make noise in the box. Elder Perry said, "We love having you here. You bring life and excitement to us dead people." Sister Tanner, former General Young Women's President, also said that she enjoyed having us there making noise. Elder Perry also charged us, during the BYU vs. San Diego State game, to make sure that we have a variety of activities at BYU and that "noone is left out." He said, "You need to find people that you can help, and make a difference in their lives. They need to be lifted."

Oh, what a blessing it is to be at BYU. I also caught up with Brother Steven's this past Monday for lunch. We had a good catch up about life and then he said, "Well, you go take your car down to the Chevy dealership and see what you can get to trade-up to a newer model. Don't worry about any accessories, just get the same Cobalt--only newer." What the? Really? Who does that? Here I was, pretty content with the car I have (a 2007 Chevy Cobalt) and he wanted to switch it. Wowzers.

Halloween and friends

Well, life has just kept on moving and the more I try to get done--the more I have. How does that even make any sense people? Anyway, lots of great things happened this last week. I went to the Student Alumni Association Networking Dinner on Thursday. What a fun night?! I loved being able to meet with Tim Sheehan, from Senator Bennett's office, over dinner with other students. I also just had fun listening to John Dye, President of Fluid Studios, speak about Networking and how important it is for us to do. People can really get a lot done if you value people.

Then on Friday I had a great surprise! Some little thiefs had stolen my clothes and dressed up as me for Halloween. Who does that? Can you tell which one is me? We all look so alike. Who would've guessed that with a change in wardrobe, a bit of black hair spray, and a cheesy smile--anyone could be 'Adam Ruri.' Needless to say, I thought it was hilarious.

Following that, I went with Brad, Scott, and some of their ward friends "Party hopping!" We had heaps of fun, with pictures to prove it. Oh, and I decided to dress up as a 'magician' because I had a spare cape and top hat at home. I love cheap costumes. What I didn't like, however, was people who actually forgot their costumes (and shame) at home. I mean, some people just walked out of their apartments only wearing underwear. At first I thought that they must have been too poor to buy a costume (like me), until I realized they were getting out of Hummers and 2009 Honda's. How forgetful, I hope I never go dancing and forget my clothes. They must've been so embarrassed when they realized. ;)

Then, to top all of that off, on Saturday night we went to the funnest Murder Mystery Party ever! (Yes, funnest is a word) We were werewolves and we knew how to party!

Blog tagging...

This next blog may or may not uplift your life. I wanted to reply to this thing called 'tagging.' First off, for those of you who are not aware of what a 'tag' is, don't ask me. All I know is that I was 'tagged' (whatever that means) by Mindy Marie Thornley--so I decided to reply since you all haven't heard from me for ages. I also may or may not ever receive a tag again. Also in the picture here, Mindy is the girl in the pink--I was afraid for my life.

Here is what I have to reply to: "In 47 words or less, describe your thoughts on suspenders and why you think people don't wear them more often and why you think they should: What is ONE question you refuse to answer? (Tricked you there with the one, didn't I?) What is the answer to the question of question #11? Have you ever wanted to ask someone, 'Is that your real arm?'"

I think suspenders are great. In fact, as a young man, I owned and frequently used a pair of suspenders--they were multicolored (maroon, green, and blue I think). I refuse to answer the question about "Things I've never told anyone." I think the answer to question 11 is that I like them--my teeth that is. They are straight and I've never had braces. No, I have never wanted to ask anyone if that was their real arm.

Ummm...and that was 79 words.

As far as the 'photo tag' goes, I'm not at my laptop, so I'll have to do it another time. The end.

The week that came and went

I really needed to include this High School drama production picture my New Zealand friend posted on Facebook. Yes, I was probably about 17 years old in the picture, I had longer hair, and I am wearing a "Janet Jackson" microphone--if you can't see it. Anyway, I've had an action-packed week this week. I'm not sure that this is ever going to calm down--but I hope it does.

Firstly, because I was trying to prepare for the two minute talk I had to give in devotional on Tuesday, this week was the first time for over a month that I stayed up till 12:30pmish during a weekday. That might not be that shocking to any of you, but I thought that I had to confess that on my blog. Now I feel better about myself. In the same breath, I did still wake up to work-out the next morning at 6.30am. You betcha.

So, probably because you all know I'm somewhat of an extrovert, I had the greatest day on Tuesday. Two reasons: I spoke in the Marriott Center--everyone laughed (Click here for the Daily Universe article), and I ran into Tamilisa from the Church Audio Visual Department, who then had me make an appearance in a new Church DVD for New Years Eve celebrations across America! What are the chances? I'm walking back to the Wilk and she's like "Hi Adam, can you just wait here for like 10 minutes?" And voila. Church video stardom. Ha ha ha ha ha. Maybe one day I can move up the ranks to maybe sing on an EFY CD? (Seriously though, that's my next dream).

Also, Joseph Nance and I had lunch with the new San Diego Temple president, Bruce Olsen. He is also the former president of the Alumni Association, former Managing Director of Church Public Affairs, and a dear friend. He starts his term as Temple president pretty soon, hopefully we'll be able to able to pay him a visit down there. California, here we come!

She'll be coming 'round the mountain!

Yes, my mother did come to America with my sister, Ariana. They had so much fun and wanted you all to know how much they love and appreciate you. We hit up so many different places over the last week: Salt Lake City sights, Carls Jr (we don't have that in NZ), BYU, Chef's Table, Sears, Wal-Mart, Para-gliders, Friday Night Live, Grantsville visit to a relative, and the Bonneville Salt Flats. I think things like that were much more fun with my family--probably because we just talked about family and stuff wherever we went.

I wanted to highlight two of my mum and sisters favorite things this last week: THE PARTY (better believe it) and Cafe Rio (really?). Ha ha ha. They were amazed at how hard-out you all partied on Thursday. My mum commented, "You would never see anything like that in New Zealand--your friends had no shame!" Is that true friends? What mum said is true though, in comparison, a two-hour dance party would not have been successful in New Zealand. Traditionally, there is a one hour warm-up and then a one-hour warm down. If you don't believe, you might have to come/go visit. You'll love it. Oh, and if you are offended you weren't invited to the party. Don't be. I invited you all. Also, a huge shout out to Bethany and her crew for all that they did to make the evening special.

As far as Cafe Rio goes, there is really nothing like it back home. We don't really know how to do Mexican-American Food (I hyphenated that for you Manda)--but my mum is certainly going to try and replicate it back in New Zealand. We had to go there twice because she wanted the salad so bad.

Can I just say that I love my mum and sister? I was really grateful to see them; the last time was April 2007, so I we had a lot of catching up to do. I really miss/missed them.

Homecoming Extravaganza....phewee

I'm not sure how many of you noticed, but it was BYU's Homecoming last week. I had so much fun; attending various Alumni Association meetings, and even making an appearance in the Homecoming Opening Ceremonies (If anyone is interested in the Daily Universe article, click here). The week was filled with cheesy jokes and I even had lunch with Aunty Rere (my mum's sister) and her friend, Chris.

Did I mention how long or how many meetings I attended this week? Oh, over 30 hours. Goo. I did get to meet with a lot of high rollers (CEOs, Senior VP's, Managing Directors, and Attorneys), so it was really interesting too.

Probably the most important thing for me is that I actually made it through the week without having to miss too much important class information. My homework and stuff stacked up, but I think I was able to recover.

Conference, Conference, Conference!!

I had an amazingly busy and productive week this week. After getting back from DC on Monday, I had a bunch of things to get ready for. First, homework. I'm still not caught up entirely (why am I on here writing a blog then?) but I needed to get assignments handed in and stuff done.

THEN, on Thursday, we hosted the Student Body Officers from BYU-Idaho, BYU-Hawaii, and the LDS Business College at the first ANNUAL Student Leadership Conference at the Hinckley Center and Aspen Grove. I really loved spending time with them--it really helps to know that there are students at other institutions battling similar concerns and trying hard to serve. I did have an early morning meeting to attend for the University Athletic Advisory Council that morning too. Our conference went overnight and we played games till late; we also sang hymns etc till even later...so good.

That Friday was quite possibly the busiest one of all time. We got done with the conference around 10am; I got changed because I smelled like bacon (breakfast) and then came back to talk to a group of New Zealanders from all over. I met up with Brother Hikaka and grandparents of some missionaries that I served with! Having all of these kuia around, reminded me of home heaps. They cracked us up and were just genuinely excited to visit with us. Then I got ready to sing the "Angels Among Us" skit to the other schools leaders for the Honor Code Conference--hilarious.

That night, Preston and I went to the Utah State game; however, after some technical difficulties, we arrived there pretty late. That didn't really matter, because then I caught up with my friend, Mindy Thornley--we shared fajuke's (probably mispelled) and saw some BYU freshman I knew. Ha ha ha.

All that madness aside, I was able to attend a GREAT Semiannual General Conference at the Conference Center. What an amazing experience and huge blessing. At one point I was sitting pretty close, with Hettig and Malinda, and I met up with Sister Walker and Sister Matthews FROM BACK HOME! It was so awesome. They were right behind us. What a tender mercy! Preston and I watched a hilarious movie that Saturday too. We stayed at his parents house and had had a great pie.

Before I finish, I have to give a shout out to my man Elder Jeffrey R. Holland! I thoroughly enjoyed the talk that he gave during the Saturday afternoon session--if there is one talk I would recommend for you to watch online, it would be his! And if you have the time, watch the little primary children after he speaks. They fidget and want to see themselves on the TV it's AWESOME.

Needless to say, I left Salt Lake that evening with a greater desire to do better, be better, and love better. Life is good. I just need a wife.

The Days of D.C.

I just finished having the weekend of my life in Washington, D.C. with Steele and Brother Ward. We all went out there for the "National Student Leadership Forum on Faith and Values"--so good. After our long, meal-less (which I hate by the way) flight from SLC to DC, we pretty much ran around DC like children in a candy shop. We saw the Lincoln Memorial, the Metro, the White House, 'rain', the Washington Monument, and then I had a moment to reflect at the WWII memorial.

Back in the day, President Truman made a comment about the 'Allied Forces' which included both of my grandfathers. This quote by President Truman was displayed on a wall in the memorial and I had an opportunity to be thankful for my ancestors who fought (and survived) that war. The picture here shows the memorial in front of the Lincoln Memorial.

Throughout the rest of our time there, we met some AWESOME people from all around the United States and also dined with Senators and Congressmen. What was probably the most interesting thing for me was how everybody really gets along and how much the officials in the U.S. Government do--they really are just trying their best.

I would be remiss if I didn't mention how excellent my group was. We had a fair amount of schools represented and we also had some great discussions. Marty, our facilitator, did a good job and we also had Representative Mike Doyle spend a lot of time with us. He kept us updated on the 'Bailout' bill before the news even got wind of a bunch of things; that was awesome, and highly informative.

Finally, on the last day we were able to go inside the Capitol building and discuss the Savior on the house floor (that's the same place where the U.S. President gives the 'State of the Union' address). The building is amazing inside and also has a whole bunch of historical things--I even saw the statue of Brigham Young inside 'Statutory hall.' Walking around the building, and others in DC, really gave me a feeling of nostalgia.


All-in-all, an AMAZING experience and one I will never forget.

Breaking records with voting and activities

That's right, this week has been record breaking. The BYUSA team achieved two amazing feats: registering more students to vote than had occurred previously, and also, according to attendance, holding the biggest single event (Fall Fest) in BYUSA history. This little post today is a shout out to all the volunteers and officers who helped make both of these events a success. Thank you!

This week has also been a great week for meetings. On Tuesday we heard from an Irishman named Ronan Tynan. He's a disabled athlete, famous tenor, and medical doctor. He sang two amazing songs and talked about his life with a bunch of BYU students at our forum.

I also attended my first University Athletic Advisory Council Meeting, and first University Student Council meeting. I had a bunch of fun at both of these meetings; but, probably not as much fun as the Alumni Association chapter heads meeting that Deidre invited me to sing at. I sang "You Raise Me Up" and also had a chance to listen to Dr. Daniel Peterson. He sits on the churches committee on Islam (working to improve relations) and he had some amazing stories. Faith-promoting stories reminding everyone that the Lord is in-charge and knows what's going on. His stories involved working with a professor in New Zealand, digitizing texts at the Vatican, translating Arabic into English, and working with foreign dignitaries.

Anyway, life seems to be moving along pretty well. I also went on a Field Trip for Biology 100--we went bird watching. Our teacher, Dr. Hal Black, is hilarious. We were enthralled for about two hours, it was great. Good times!

General Authorities at the game...

Yes, the people above are most of the general officers that I met while in the President's Loge (yes..loge, not lounge) this last Saturday in the game versus UCLA. President Samuelson invited the BYUSA presidency up and we loved it! Who would've thought that we were going to be able to sit in the box during one of seasons most exciting games. In fact, I actually got a little tired of getting up and down to sing the fight song. Ha ha ha. In all seriousness, between this game and the last game, it was like NIGHT and DAY?! I kept on having to poke myself to see if the whole experience was real. I would like to extend a huge thanks to President Samuelson for allowing us to attend--amazing (NOTE: The General Authorities jump up and down for the fight song, clap, cheer, and I even heard one say "Crimeny Pete"--whatever that means).

This week has been a ball of fun. Saturday morning I went to the MSS Freshman retreat and laughed so hard. A few upperclassmen were asked to cook breaky and also facilitate a game/huge object lesson. The lesson involved blindfolded freshman trying to find the "iron rod" and upperclassmen taunting them along the way. We led people to the wrong path/rod/tree--it was great! I learned so many lessons that I will be able to apply in life and I'm also grateful for the knowledge that I have about the gospel. I loved it. That night I also caught up with a bunch of freshman at a BYUSA Freshman Facebook dance that we sponsored. Without any formal advertising, they had over 1000 kids there. Who does that?

Also, Friday night was a blast. Dinner with Bethany at Guru's and then we went to this raging party at a random Provo house. Remember how that house was big enough to have a soccer field, pool (with pool house), beach volleyball court, tennis court, beach ping-pong table, and another yard for dancing. The hosts had food all over the place and even a soft-serve ice cream machine--really? Following that was "Rock the Block" (speakers galore) and then bedtime.

BYUSA has been treating me pretty well. I'm learning heaps about life and regularly receive requests from students or random people from all across Provo. I'm grateful for the opportunity to serve others; I know that when you think about others more, life just feels better. Jeanessa, the intern, also came out to have lunch with us (and come to the game). Good times. All-in-all, a great week with a lot to love. I'm excited to see my mum pretty soon here and we go to D.C. in two weeks. Oh my word.

Classes and retreats

Well, I've begun my new class & sleeping schedule--10pm curfew and up at 6am. I've been exercising pretty regularly and studying relatively well. One of the most exciting things I've discovered this week is Law. I wasn't sure if I enjoyed it (because I've never really studied it) and I found out this week that I love it! I have a Business Law class and a Law Lecture Series that have been great. If you can imagine, I actually enjoy the reading and case study work that I do for the class. This is exciting for me because after I graduate--I'm going to Law School. I apologize if that's a shock to any of you, but that's been the plan for a while. Ha ha.

Anyway, I'm also enjoying the early rise/to bed schedule. If someone knows where the President Hinckley quote about being able to accomplish everything needed in day between 6am and 10pm--please let me know.

I was also able to attend the Club President's Retreat at Springhaven. We had over 60 people there being trained and getting to know each other. After waiting for dinner, we finished up pretty late and then played "Capture the flag", "Sardines", and "Murder in the Dark." So funny. I had heaps of fun getting know these students from all walks of BYU life.

Fall beginnings...

After California, our crew got to take part in Foundations of Leadership, where a bunch of freshman came together and made friends etc. I didn't have a group per se, but I did attach myself to a few and became good friends with some of these kids from the class of 2012. I think that they are amazing; I am really grateful that I can associate with people of such outstanding moral character.

For the next few days, I hung around with the New Students--about 4000 to be exact. I gave a little speech to them, I handed out "Redefine Service" pins, and I also did a bit of dancing! Needless to say, I had heaps of fun. I really have no pictures to show for it, but I will always remember the Fall 2008 NSO. I am also grateful for the Events Management Team, who put it all together, they did so well.

Another exciting thing that happened this week was I moved into my new house! La Costa. I'm already enjoying the ward and the rooms are spacious. It's AWESOME. Oh, my roommates are great too.

Living the dream

So...I'm loving life right now. I have no school for ANOTHER week and I feel like I've been bumming around America for two weeks already (probably because I have). Two weeks ago I went to the Steven's in St. George to chillax. Little did I know that I was going to be writing a 5-year plan--and that I ENJOYED it! Uncle Jack and Aunt Jane, as I affectionately call them, took me through a step by step process of planning out my life. Uncle Jack also mentioned how successful people always have a plan--they always have a system. That, my friends, is what I created this last week. JUST WATCH ME DO IT! While I was there I also accomplished my summer goal of reading at least one book (I may even squeeze two in there).

After that, I lived, breathed, slept DISNEYLAND. On Monday we took off for an amazing adventure to California. We stopped, played, and ate at the Kizerians. So good. Then the boys slept at the Graham Residence, and the girls went to the Bell Residence.

The following days are a blur of fun, laughter, kissing Minnie, frozen lemonade, turkey legs, Dream Team fastpasses, mega sunburnage, swimming, and Angels game madness! Loved every moment of it...this next photo might some up a part of my little trip.


Hah! Star Wars aside, I have had an opportunity to reflect on all the goodness I get to partake of while I am here in America. I have done things here that could never have been done in New Zealand. I am constantly blessed by friends who look after me, a relative stranger, as I journey through this part of the world and my life. I have really been blessed with good friends--you know who you are--so thanks guys. Thanks for making me feel welcome.

Summer Livin'

Can I just say that I love Summer?! I know that it gets really hot; but you've gotta love all the things that you can accomplish in a few months. So, since the last post I've been on the BYUSA Adventure Experience. Guaranteed that everyone on that trip loved it--we went to the Hinckley Center to meet with VP Scharman and tour the facilities, we then went to SLC, toured church history sites like Ensign Peak and the "This is the Place" Monument, and we went to Park City--it was heaps of fun. Here are some of the pictures:


Here's our group that toured the "This is the Place" monument. We had heaps of fun...so good.


We really wanted to do a sweet jump into the lake!


After our little adventure, I did a week of EFY! It was an awesome way to end my experience as an EFY counselor. I sang "Amazing Grace" with Jill Catts and my group was called "Be No More" BUzzzzzzzzzzzz.....



Then, I went to the Melaleuca Stadium in Idaho Falls to a Chukars game with Ryan Stewart. My mission bud, Ryan Smith, asked me to sing the American National Anthem! Here is a sweet photo of the singing experience.


And here is a photo of Ryan Stewart and I after we went to a session in the Idaho Falls Temple. We had an awesome road trip and also met some new friends in the visitors center; Elder Gunderson, served in NZ as a young missionary, wanted to let us stay overnight in their flat. So funny!







Then, a little bit later, we had a raging farewell party for the interns, Daphney and Jeanessa. As you can see, I decided to use my Billabong visor...you know, just changing it up. Following our party, we played an amazing game of fugitive.










I cannot help but laugh when I see these photo's. Ha ha ha!






















Here is evidence of one of the best tubing experiences of my life. I would like to give an honorable mention to the huge spike that stuck into my back for the majority of the trip and for the coldest water that I have ever laid in for about an hour. Gotta love Provo River! Whore.



















BYU has a float every year and this one was good enough to win the "Days of '47" Mayor's award. We probably have Chance to thank for the excitement and BYU fight song that rang in the ears of the judges all the way around!


My final summer shout out goes to our trip to Arches National Park. There are too many awesomely funny things to mention, but here are my favorites: negro bill's canyon/campground, honey chicken pizza from Zaks, the delicate Arch (the one on the license plate), our swim of death on the Colorado, our walk of death after nearly drowning (Hell's highway), the horse flies in the morning, the big picture map, ChaCha all the way!

From left to right: Brad Graham, Timothy Justin Taylor, Me, Scott Woodland, Chance Basinger.

Here ends the Summer Livin' post. There were heaps of photos and things that I didn't include, I'm sorry...I couldn't be bothered inserting all of those photo's but that does not mean I didn't love them!