Bring on the Change

First off, I hope all of you had an absolutely amazing Christmas. I thoroughly enjoyed being with my family, laughing and playing together! While I am l
looking forward to starting a new semester back at SVU, I'm not gonna lie, it is going to be really hard for me to leave home again. One thing that I am truly grateful for is how close I am even when I am away. The amazing technology we have today only makes the distance between me and family a mere phone call or a three hour car drive. I don't know what I would do if I were far away...
I am watching the final days of 2010 slip away right in front of me. A lot happened this year. I went to Belize, graduated high school, moved away from home, made some new friends, lost some old friends, took one step closer to my future and where I want to be, grew more self confidence, became closer to my family, laughed until my sides ached and cried until the tears wouldn't come any more, I challenged myself in ways I never thought possible and tried MANY new things. I turned 18, spent the long summer days on the lake or on the soccer field. I found new strength in my faith and testimony and a stronger drive to serve a mission than I have ever felt before. I learned to love photography and the myriad of memories one still photo can hold. It was an amazing year and I can't wait for the things to come.
So, as I welcome in the New Year with my dear family and closest friends, I will sit with a smile on my face and remember all of the good times I had. I will not forget the bad, because there has been plenty. I will embrace those I love and party like I never have before because the past is never coming back and it is time for a new start. I look forward to what comes my way during 2011 (and it's going to take me a while to get used to writing the date). To quote one of my all time favorites talks by one Elder Joseph B. Worthlin, "Come what may and love it". Goodbye 2010, Hello 2011!