Last Day...

...of the BEST internship in the world.

State Capitol on Inauguration Day. (Photo courtesy yours truly)

Today was the last day of my internship:

2 Governors
4 months/15 weeks/47 complete days in the office
5 press conferences
1 Resignation
1 Inauguration (so far)
2 Swearing-in ceremonies
2 Senate Confirmation Hearings
1 Senate vote (so far)
300 + hours of office work, errands, events
1 new internship manual written
3 potential interns interviews
5 days at the White House phone
1 Record-breaking 6-hour date with the copy machine
3 Monthly Reports
100's of letters drafted
1,000 (almost) letters logged
47 days in the office
100 + other tasks completed
A few fiascoes avoided
1 red bracelet saved

1 Incredible Summer

And the BEST internship in the world.

The day before I officially started the job: Press Conference with Governor Jon M. Huntsman, Jr. following President Obama's announcement that he would appoint Huntsman to serve as U.S. Ambassador to the People's Republic of China. (Photo Courtesy Office of the Governor)

Me with the first Governor.

Me with the new Governor.

Past Governors and spouses on the day Governor Huntsman resigned as Governor, was sworn in as Ambassador, and Governor Herbert was sworn in as 17th Governor of the Great State of Utah. (Photo courtesy me.)

Governor and Mrs. Herbert, yours truly, Lieutenant Governor-designate and Mrs. Bell. (Due to a new Utah amendment, Lt. Governor Bell has to wait for the Senate to confirm his appointment. I went to his Senate Hearing today; it was great.)

Governor's Mansion. (Photo by me)

Herbert Sworn In as Governor

Yesterday was a significant day.

Gary R. Herbert was sworn in as 17th Governor of the Great State of Utah. I was there (and helped with parts of the event) and wanted to post this video. There are actually four videos, including Governor Huntsman's private resignation ceremony, the inauguration, the post-inauguration motorcade and KSL's news clip about the day's events.

Perhaps the coolest part was meeting with all the dignitaries. Seeing former Governors who accomplished great things in office, meeting and speaking with current legislators (such as Orrin Hatch, Bob Bennett, Rob Bishop and Jason Chaffetz) and other distinguished guests (including President Monson), I couldn't help but soak in the importance of the day.

The ceremony was enveloped in prayer, as a fitting emphasis of the way our new Governor opened and closed his speech--acknowledging the help from on high that must come.

As we prayed for our new Governor last night, I couldn't help but remember we need to pray for our President, as well. Whether or not you like our leaders, the best thing you can do for them is pray for and support them. Attempts to demean our leaders do little to solve the real issues or work for the common good.

At least we know that if we pray, one vote of confidence we can cast is imploring Heaven to be on our side and with those who lead the governments of the world.

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

Huntsmans leave to China

This week has been full of fun and excitement. I promise the Alaska pictures (from April) post is under construction. I'd also like to chronicle a few of the latest and greatest adventures: family vacations and my awesome internship. I've posted two videos by KSL. One with Governor Huntsman and one with First Lady Mary Kaye Hunstman.

Tonight I went to the farewell reception for the Huntsmans and was reminded that he was not just a great Governor that did good things and has a great approval rating, but he's also real. They are genuine people, humble, considerate and kind. And they've done great things for our state. But they're also the first ones to recognize the help of capable and outstanding staff.

Tomorrow is the resignation and inauguration of a new Governor. And I'm confident that Governor Gary Herbert, from first hand experience, has the best interest of Utahns in his mind. His wife is capable and competent, as well. Lieutenant Governor Bell and his wife are also two individuals who have strong beliefs. I met them this week and had the great opportunity of learning more about them. Lieutenant Governor Bell is someone who has strong beliefs yet is willing to listen and represent all.

We're in good hands.

So here's to this new and exciting adventure as we close one chapter in Utah history and open a new one tomorrow.

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

Video Courtesy of KSL.com

Day 1...

...of the most awesome internship in the world.

Did I tell you I work here...

photo courtesy www.identity-theft-basics.com/images

...for him...

photo courtesy kued.com

...and him...

photo courtesy utahgop.com

...and their staff?

Oh, and this has added some fun and coolness to the experience, too:

photo courtesy deseretnews.com

President Obama named Governor Huntsman to be the U.S. Ambassador to China--pending Senate approval.

Day One of the coolest internship in the world was awesome. I am so blessed. And I get to learn so much. I pretty much have the most amazing internship in the world.