Ode to a Semester Gone By

Finals were over last Friday, but I had to post a few pictures to show what the semester was all about. I couldn't get a picture for every fun activity I did, but Here's a sneak peak at Fall 2008.

A now, dear semester, may you rest in peace (because ever since my finals were over I've been sleeping peacefully, too!).


Just in case you had evil thoughts of stomping on the plants up "R" Mountain, now you have a reason not to.

The top of "R" Mountain...well, kind of. We took this picture at the summit, and then we made our way around to the R. This was a pre-missionary activity, and they asked me to come. Oh man! Those guys are stellar! They'll be amazing missionaries!

This is my friend Jodi and her mom at the Mother's Weekend Service Project. We did this as part of one of the organzations I was involved with this semester on campus. When the moms came to visit, we created newborn kits for a hospital nearby. Service definitely rocks.

The morning of the Service Project, we woke up to find 6 of these (one for each of us) taped to the mirror in the bathroom with a note inviting us to have an adventure that day. Our mission: find someone we didn't know who needed some extra cheer and give this to them. My mission: complete success. The anonymous roommate who left these out is a CHAMP! It was like being on the mission again out looking for "the one." I'd recommend this activity to anyone looking for a fun way to serve those around you!

This is the structure that greeted us when we came back. I was only home for four weeks and the open area suddenly looked like this. You should see it now. Click here or here. I can't even begin to tell you what I know of this miracle. Wait until you talk to President Monson or President Clark (President of the University--I've been in meetings where he has begun expounding on this miracle). And if President Hinckley could tell you, he'd have amazing things to say (I heard some of it straight from one of the Vice Presidents last week).

If anything, this is to me the metaphor for my life--continual growth, constant change. There's really not a time when the progression stops. A disciple's life moves forward and helps as the stone rolls forth.

And when I got back from summer break, this greeted me, too. I don't recall who it is, but some light construction in one of the buildings on campus necessitated this mystery statue be covered up, and I couldn't help but think about stories I'd heard about Brazil and Carnival (where some Catholics cover the statues of Mary and party for a week since she can't see). I had to snap this shot.

Here's to the random Christmas Carollers that came by--in October.

And Dan and Michelle celebrating the first snowfall (also in October? It only lasted one day).

And here's to the best roommates EVER! The semester was awesome, but it would not have been what it was without you. Thanks for being an awesome "family" away from family and creating a home away from home. Good luck with your adventures next semester! It just won't ever be the same!