This weekend there was a YSA Conference hosted by my ward. It was my first ever YSA Conference, so I was a little hesitant about going. I still went determined that I would have a good time. And, I did! Here is a brief rundown of all the exciting things.

1. Sister Julie B. Beck was the main speaker. Friday night she spoke and then had classes Saturday morning for the women. It was less formal than a Conference talk but good nonetheless.

2. We colored counting books for orphanages. It was all great until we realized the watermelons we colored were actually pizzas. But, kids in orphanages won't mind will they?

3. I saw Wausau people. It was fun to see them again. What wasn't fun was Lacey's unfortunate fainting incidents which ended her up in the hospital.

4. Saturday night ended with a Mississippi River boat cruise. I was afraid the boat would make me a little seasick, but I managed to keep it all together. It was a good time to meet and talk to lots of people. Even the dancing was fun!

5. I finally met the Holts, who I have heard a fair amount about. They spoke on Sunday about making decisions and being a good RM two years after your mission.

I had a fun weekend and look forward to lots of other fun activities.

Roger

I love Roger. He entered my life January 27, 2006--the day before my 21st birthday. He was my birthday present. We've spent long hours together in the HBLL, enjoyed countless movies and listening to hours of songs, and have traveled all over the US together. Sunday evening, Roger had a horrific accident that almost sent me to tears. This is what happened.





Roger's right hinge popped off, and now the little plastic cover at the top of my key-board is sticking up out of place. It was really hard to listen to the sound of breaking plastic. After a little exploratory surgery last night, I discovered the problem. The hinge is super stiff! I couldn't move it at all. No wonder he just cracked! I wasn't sure what to do so I just put him back together. At least I know what's wrong. Maybe I'll be able to get some lubrication for him, so he'll be able to move like he did before.

In other news, I'm here in Minneapolis. It's been fine, but there is nothing exciting to report except for my adventure into the heart of Minneapolis. Thanks to the Clarks, and especially Jeff, for the housing. Here are some pics of the new place.

My bed. I was doing laundry, so it was a little messier than usual.

The desk area.

My closet. It's sweet.

That's the news from here. I'll keep everyone updated with Roger's progress.

September 12th

Two years ago today, I walked through the doors of the Wilford Woodruff building on the MTC campus and bid farewell to Emily, Preston, and Sarah as I began my mission. I was very reluctant at first as can be seen in the smile I had to force for the first picture. Little did I know what lay ahead of me. Here is a photo recap of those 18 months and three weeks I spent as a missionary.




Three Sister Scoresbys. Sarah wrote me a
letter once and also included a hand drawn
rendition of this picture. It was funny, so I
had to keep it for good laughs.

Tallahassee, Florida.




Our district, 24-D. Those elders come home
this week. They were great!

President and Sister Summerhays.
They are the best!!!



The Adult Activity Center. This was the 'real south'.
Southern drawls, dominoes, chicken and dumplin's
for lunch. It didn't get much better than this.




"The field is ripe already to harvest"

Great companions. This was also our favorite
sign in our area, but after going back six months
later, I found out they painted over it. Sad day.



I ate so much! Every one was really
impressed that I could pack it on like
an elder.

Baardson, the pink bunny. He was a
first investigator.

Best companionship study ever! This
should be hanging in the MTC!

I really liked that vest.





That's all the church building is, but the
people in Andalusia are amazing!

Morning exercise=crunching pecans.
Can you find the pecan in this picture?




The Arnolds. Perhaps, the most important
reason I had to be in Andalusia for 10
blessed months.

Good old FSU!




Sarah. She is amazing and represents all of
the wonderful people we taught on campus.

Destin fun!! Yes, this was in December for
all the poor people who endured snow.

Sister Scoresby, arriving in glory and great honor.
And, wearing a coat because it was so cold when
I got home.

For all the agonizing I did and the absolute surety that I would be miserable for 18 months straight, my mission was one of the greatest things I have done so far with my life. I learned so much, had so many great experiences, and met so many wonderful people who have changed my life forever.

Maybe if I take this approach, I'll get a job sooner.

I feel like Jonathan Jordan

I've been there, I've done it, I left it, and now I am back to it. I went back to the good old Single's Ward this weekend. It was just what you'd expect when heading to a Single's Ward. The Bishopric wants everyone to mingle and get to know each other, the Relief Society lesson was on modesty, and about half the ward got new callings. While I don't mind Single's Wards and it will be good to have people my own age in my ward, I'm going to miss the loud Sacrament Meetings, listening to the Primary kids sing for every holiday, and being the unofficial permanent substitute. I know in the end it's the best thing for me. Before I know it, I'll be back in the wonderful world of Family Wards.