tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22547686192743490332024-02-18T21:40:53.368-08:00The Next Big Adventure...the story continues as a girl steps onto a new stage of life. What will her future bring?Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.comBlogger429125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-59013036424911959682018-04-13T08:31:00.000-07:002018-04-13T08:31:23.291-07:0020 Things I'm Glad I Did in my 20sToday, at exactly the time this is posted, I will have turned 30. It's been interesting the past few months as I have thought about turning 30 and what that means and how I feel about it. It's kind of a rollercoaster thing--sometimes I didn't care, other times it freaked me out, sometimes it was exciting. In turning 30, I'm reminded of all the things I though I would have done by now or the place in my life I would be. I think these things are what make it hard for me. I thought I'd be married and have at least one child. I thought I'd be in a different place in my career. I thought I'd feel older, be more mature, act more confident . . .<br />
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But, instead of focusing on the things I didn't do in my 20s, I think I should talk about the things I did do. So, in no particular order, here are the 20 things I'm glad I did in my 20s:<br />
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1. Went on a study abroad.<br />
I started off with a bang by going to England for 8 weeks just two weeks after I entered my 20s. I had never been anywhere really and it was such an amazing opportunity and I learned so much and grew a lot and fell in love with England.<br />
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2. Applied for promotions at work.<br />
I think that maybe in my early 20s I wasn't as timid or something, because I applied for 2 promotions and got both of them. I learned a lot of things as a manager of the on campus grocery I worked at, mostly about how customers of different ages will generally treat people working in that kind of position. I learned to treat every worker I come across with kindness and respect, because they are working hard.<br />
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3. Finished my undergraduate.<br />
I know a lot of people who are still trying to get their bachelor's degree. Maybe they couldn't afford to go to school or it needed to be put on hold because of family or other reasons. I'm glad that I was able to go to go to university and get my degree in the field I wanted.<br />
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4. Did internships.<br />
I don't know if I would be the editor and employee I am if it wasn't for the three internships I was able to participate in. I met many different people, learned about editing in a variety of industries, and just learned a little more about the world.<br />
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5. Went to the temple.<br />
I went to the temple early, especially for a single woman in the church, but it has been such a blessing as life went through all its ups and downs.<br />
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6. Moved into my first post-college apartment.<br />
After I graduated from college, I moved back with my parents for a couple of years while I was completing my internships. Then my best friend got home from her mission and we chose an apartment together. Living with her was like having sleepovers all the time. I still remember us laying on the floor that first night because we didn't have a couch yet and looking up at the ceiling of our very own place. We weren't very wild, but that apartment definitely has some fun memories.<br />
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7. Vacationed by myself.<br />
I think everyone should take at least one vacation by themselves. When I was 25, I went to Prince Edward Island, Canada, by myself. I was tired of thinking "Oh, I'll go when I have someone to go with," so I saved up the money and planned it. The best part of traveling by yourself is that you aren't worrying if the other person is having a good time, or having to do things you don't want to do because your travel companions want to do them. I got to stay in a nice hotel that I probably wouldn't have if others went with me and I learned how to enjoy my own company.<br />
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8. Became an aunt.<br />
I mean, it's not like I really got to CHOOSE to do this, but I'm so glad that I became one in my 20s! I love those two little girls so much.<br />
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9. Received help for my mental health.<br />
I thought I could work through it myself. I thought that I didn't need any help. But we all need help, whatever form it is in, and I'm glad that I chose to get help in the form I thought would help me. If I think of how I was 5 years ago compared to now, I'm much better than I was then.<br />
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10. Cut my hair and grew it back.<br />
I have gone from halfway down my back to my ears, or chin. I'm not adventurous with a lot of things, but I can be when it comes to trying out new hairstyles. I know a lot of people wouldn't be able to cut off 13 inches of hair at once, but I did it several times over my 20s and it's a good way to learn what you like, to make a difference in your life. If you don't like it, hair grows!<br />
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11. Embraced my geekiness.<br />
As a preteen and teenager, I tried really hard to be something I wasn't. I wanted to be "cool" and popular, but I just wasn't that way. Once I started slowly embracing my geekery I've been happier with myself and have met some really cool, geeky people.<br />
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12. Learned to be okay doing things by myself.<br />
If I want to see a movie, go to a play, or see a concert, I can, even if I don't have anyone to go with. Having someone to share experiences with is great, but you don't need someone to enjoy something. And sometimes it's nice not having someone there to distract you.<br />
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13. Went to comic con.<br />
Salt Lake started it's comic con a few years ago. The first time I went with a friend and we were both kind of nervous about it. But we both had a great time and now I love going every year and getting to dress up and meet amazing people.<br />
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14. Not bending my morals.<br />
When you try to be someone else to appeal to people who wouldn't like you for you, you end up unhappy. Don't ever change who you are and what you believe in for someone else. I'm glad that I have stuck to my beliefs.<br />
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15. Laughed.<br />
Laughing is a must. Having private jokes with people, being surprised by something someone said, laughing over something that isn't funny . . . never be afraid to laugh. Laugh long and loud.<br />
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16. Cried.<br />
Looking back at some of the things I cried about in my 20s really makes me cringe. But the thing is, they were important enough for my tears back then. Crying can be cleansing and freeing. It's letting out pent up emotions and allowing yourself to feel sad. It's okay to be sad.<br />
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17. Became closer to Sis.<br />
I think that since I entered my 20s, my relationship with my sister has become stronger. We were close as kids, but I don't know if it was the four years between us or what, but I have always been closer to my brother than her. I've spent more time talking to her about things in my life and things in her life, and I've started to see how our similarities and differences complement each other and how we can learn from each other.<br />
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18. Continued to learn.<br />
Whether it was taking classes or independently learning something on my own through podcasts, books, and the internet, I made sure I was always learning and growing. Even if the things I learned were just trivia.<br />
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19. Learned the value of experiences.<br />
Some people never learn how experiences can be so much more rewarding than objects. Yes, I have objects and continue to buy objects of different sorts, but I find myself want to have more experiences now.<br />
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20. Got my master's degree.<br />
I'm glad that I went back to school and completed it while I was in my 20s and single. It's hard to do anyway, I can't imagine doing it when there are more things in my life that require my time.Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-33649100848494799972018-04-12T18:02:00.000-07:002018-04-12T18:02:12.923-07:0030 before 30: Learn to do make up/hairSo I think over the past 2 1/2 years since I made my 30 before 30, I've definitely become better at doing my make up and hair. I watched tutorials and pinned pins and tried things out. However, for every day, I'm also lazy.<br />
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However, I do enjoy trying different things and making myself up for Sundays and special occasions.<br />
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Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-29712156471486057092018-04-12T17:59:00.001-07:002018-04-12T17:59:12.207-07:0030 before 30: Attend the Temple Once a MonthThis has been a big blessing in my life, as I've taken the time to go to the temple once a month. I'm so blessed to be near so many temples, because I know there are a lot of people in the world who can only hope to attend once in their lives. This is something I'm definitely going to continue to do.Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-6908461464616746862018-04-12T17:56:00.002-07:002018-04-12T17:56:47.179-07:0030 before 30: Buy an Awesome Comic Con costumeI've always wanted to buy a cosplay for comic con instead of cobbling one together, but they can be kind of expensive. I decided that my reward for finishing my program would be buying a costume.<br />
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I really wanted to be a princess, but it was hard to find something just right. I thought about nearly all of them, but they took wigs, or the dresses wouldn't be as modest as I like. I finally settled on Rapunzel--she turns brunette at the end, so I wouldn't need a wig, and her dress is modest.<br />
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So excited to wear this to Salt Lake FanX in September!<span id="goog_1571377220"></span><br />
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<span id="goog_1571377219"></span>Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-38617151366884560992018-04-01T11:28:00.004-07:002018-04-01T11:28:47.802-07:0030 before 30: Begin the Process of Buying a HomeThis last month I started the process of buying a home. I talked to a mortgage lender and a realtor. However, it's a competitive market right now and out of about 10 homes I have wanted to look at, I have only been able to actually see 1 because with a day they have already gone under contract.<br />
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There is a lot I don't know about the whole process. It's kind of "scary exciting" when I think of it.<br />
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The fortunate thing is that I can take my time to find the place that is right for me and where I am supposed to be. Which, because it's been hard getting a house, is good to remember.Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-35586517836066971322018-03-03T11:19:00.001-08:002018-03-03T11:19:29.022-08:0030 Before 30: Go Back to EnglandSo this hasn't happened yet and won't until a couple of weeks after I turn 30, but it's all planned! Bro and I are going to England at the end of April. We have our plane tickets and booked an AirBnB. I'm so excited to go back and see some of my favorite things and experience things I didn't an opportunity to when I was there 10 years ago.Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-45810754390288348682017-01-14T15:08:00.002-08:002017-01-14T15:08:41.589-08:0030 Before 30: Apply to Grad School AgainSeveral years ago, I applied to grad school and was brokenhearted when I didn't get in. Now, I work at a university, so I get a good chunk of my tuition paid for by work, which I have to admit is a huge incentive to me getting my master's through there.<br />
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I just finished filling out my application and I will be starting May or June on my Master's of Education degree in Instructional Design.<br />
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It's a little scary, but I'm pretty excited to finally be able to say I have a master's degree (well, that I'm working toward one).Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-26307030643761802152016-12-27T07:51:00.000-08:002016-12-27T07:52:29.206-08:0030 Before 30: Have a Handmade ChristmasThis Christmas I gave my family, and some friends, paintings I had done throughout the year. <a href="http://pianokid13.blogspot.com/2016/03/30-before-30-learn-to-oil-paint.html">You'll remember that I just started painting about a year ago</a> and have since switched to acrylics as my preferred medium, but have dabbled in watercolors a little too.<br />
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My favorite moment was when Kid K (age 3.5) opened her present and said, "It's my favorite picture!"<br />
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(D'awwwww!!)<br />
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I don't have photos available of every painting, but here are a few:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lighthouse for Bro-in-law</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ornaments I painted for Sis</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baby B's fairy</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Whale for my roommate, The Bomb</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kid K's "favorite picture"</td></tr>
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Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-55549998807417623142016-11-01T15:09:00.003-07:002016-11-01T15:09:59.369-07:0030 Before 30: Make a Video and Post it to YouTubeSo, this seems like a silly little thing, but it was something I kind of wanted to do. At first, I thought that I would make some big video and learn editing or whatever, but this is what happened instead!<br />
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You can find the video <a href="https://youtu.be/np_F2m710hE">here</a>.<span id="goog_2099258683"></span><span id="goog_2099258684"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a>Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-44435346896115268152016-07-28T19:20:00.002-07:002016-07-28T19:20:38.683-07:0030 Before 30: Finish Writing a BookIn 2011 I started writing a novel, the idea of which came while listening to an audio of a fairytale. Today, I finished it!<br />
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Five years of on and off writing, of struggling with plot and characters, of wondering if this would be the one that I actually completed--and I did it!!<br />
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I did a mini celebratory dance when I finished it and then I went and got Chipotle, sprung for the chips, and paid for it all with a gift card I got from a company thing a couple of weeks ago.<br />
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I can't believe it! I actually finished writing a novel! (Well, the first draft anyway.)Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-56289360465782844552016-07-27T18:19:00.002-07:002016-07-27T18:19:49.952-07:0030 Before 30: Buy Something from TiffanyToday while I was in Salt Lake I headed over to Tiffany and Co. I've had the money for a little while, but going into the store kind of intimidated me. It's so fancy, you know? I mean, it's <i>Tiffany</i>. That's basically synonymous with class. But, since I was in Salt Lake anyway and I was dressed nice, I decided to go in.<br />
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It was a great experience! The salesman that helped me was really nice. When he asked why I was there, I told him that I was treating myself. I gave him my budget and he showed me what would fit in that budget. Then I mentioned a certain collection I liked, he moved over there and talked about some of the designs in it. He asked if I was celebrating anything, and I said no, just that I wanted to get something. He said that he thought that was great and he thought more women should do it--that a lot of women think they can only get jewelry if it's a gift.<br />
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Anyway, I tried on four rings, but I kept going back to the first one I tried on. It was just more me, simple and delicate but elegant. And it was far below budget. Win!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bag!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The box!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcYDrEdl-NNqATTbOhi2vrN3FVpnzvPU_9NAhYl4O__qjNYZpS-NgAo21hrD-dibpEmOtn9uZawQ3O_LRyj4AugkGP7OVs9cmxl_LRzMtKXEd-h_Ua4ZqDstSm2kgKmws9xiXZHfBPfRSK/s1600/IMG_3031.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcYDrEdl-NNqATTbOhi2vrN3FVpnzvPU_9NAhYl4O__qjNYZpS-NgAo21hrD-dibpEmOtn9uZawQ3O_LRyj4AugkGP7OVs9cmxl_LRzMtKXEd-h_Ua4ZqDstSm2kgKmws9xiXZHfBPfRSK/s320/IMG_3031.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I felt really bad about undoing the bow when he had done such a good job tying it.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4z1_FUwLNaG_55MLV-MmwRPJcZVIyU09Fg10K2DV4wqdH2Y_-0ZQwnwI7ZBo2dqzXogXrR2SXi6NR8ILV1vLaf-SDcMTJkS1B41WrpFaK7Qgmc-6byi20A8RuPNp9iewNYC5NXDh1NpV9/s1600/IMG_3032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4z1_FUwLNaG_55MLV-MmwRPJcZVIyU09Fg10K2DV4wqdH2Y_-0ZQwnwI7ZBo2dqzXogXrR2SXi6NR8ILV1vLaf-SDcMTJkS1B41WrpFaK7Qgmc-6byi20A8RuPNp9iewNYC5NXDh1NpV9/s320/IMG_3032.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhVOPEs8OjCWQqrm4luTxaW03T4T89F7iPKryGCzN5jrcyxVnQsTqRL4uaGdd9Xbm38zmuVP2TKJtJaf-uTTuVZgB2xqcp4NnEoV8O0mZANoxePnul_FtAZ5LNGhi3c44atMevPPedKb1/s1600/IMG_3033.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIhVOPEs8OjCWQqrm4luTxaW03T4T89F7iPKryGCzN5jrcyxVnQsTqRL4uaGdd9Xbm38zmuVP2TKJtJaf-uTTuVZgB2xqcp4NnEoV8O0mZANoxePnul_FtAZ5LNGhi3c44atMevPPedKb1/s320/IMG_3033.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The ring!</td></tr>
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<br />Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-34787864054683308412016-06-25T19:29:00.001-07:002016-06-25T19:29:51.985-07:0030 Before 30: Create a "Work of Art" by Throwing Balloons Full of Paint at a CanvasToday Sis, Bro-in-lay, Kid K, and Baby B came over to have some fun! However, this fun didn't exactly work the way I thought it would.<br />
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First, filling up the balloons with paint was an adventure which ended with us having to get three bottles of Smart Water to make it easier. And even then Sis and I both ended up with paint all over us.<br />
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I had put thumbtacks in the canvas to help break the balloons; however, I may have needed more because the balloons did not break easily. Poor Kid K couldn't throw them hard enough to break. I think she still had fun though--even if her hands did get dirty.<br />
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So it was fun and I have something cool now, but if I were going to do it again, I'd do things a little differently.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0UhY-XLpJ1XSmQqwd4V3zKcAGNr-yLwVixjuFkocfMD-ezZBswbinReheffXNGZzLApwpSFDxyOWOSh7tu-k8ph0DfyDxROSASdY5-GeCV0OVhT2XLmhLFPWBtcryCC4KvnYovdPv61oY/s1600/13529002_10102636721301349_5218731240532355066_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0UhY-XLpJ1XSmQqwd4V3zKcAGNr-yLwVixjuFkocfMD-ezZBswbinReheffXNGZzLApwpSFDxyOWOSh7tu-k8ph0DfyDxROSASdY5-GeCV0OVhT2XLmhLFPWBtcryCC4KvnYovdPv61oY/s320/13529002_10102636721301349_5218731240532355066_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-88211856160750540652016-05-22T18:14:00.001-07:002016-05-22T18:14:18.785-07:0030 before 30: Finish the Book of MormonI'm not the best at reading the scriptures, but in the past year I've tried to get better at it. I definitely see an improvement in my life when I do read them. <div>
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Even if you don't believe that the Book of Mormon, like the Bible, is the word of God, there are good things written in it. It is full of stories of good people trying their best to do God's work. </div>
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This wasn't the first time I've read it all the way through, but every time there is something new, especially as I mature and my life changes. </div>
Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-1252893898945817112016-05-21T10:14:00.001-07:002016-05-21T10:14:38.397-07:0030 before 30: Have Professional Photos TakenI had never have a real professional photo taken of me. At one time I had a roommate who wanted to be a photographer and she used me for her portfolio, but I wasn't that impressed with them and her attention to detail left some things lacking. I think it was one of those cases where nice cameras are so available, everyone thinks they can be a photographer.<div>
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Last weekend I went out with a friend and the experience was completely different. He and his wife pay a great attention to detail, and he made me feel more comfortable about the whole process. I really think that's what makes a good photographer. </div>
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Here are a few of my favorites:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVoVXHZEMq7AS7VDPMW1jaqjF04tcs8rM4Y326_y5cYLms2Oamq9Uu4cCRVjarpBvMiM2MAnYLSyIlYOzYs_Rkj8S5OWdGyKJAfJ9pGbQVPBB7pIzRfVIkfLfZdvl1CIvWOiP04vHs-qm/s1600/Field.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJVoVXHZEMq7AS7VDPMW1jaqjF04tcs8rM4Y326_y5cYLms2Oamq9Uu4cCRVjarpBvMiM2MAnYLSyIlYOzYs_Rkj8S5OWdGyKJAfJ9pGbQVPBB7pIzRfVIkfLfZdvl1CIvWOiP04vHs-qm/s320/Field.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxVIecgJG4UkLIT4dqofE6J-CxdE3fePuhbIefDQvMP65xFJTYn6dLCfHbl2c90-jeZDGZvF5_0LV9JkID7DChkGBfuWMDmMxeJ339W4iIxxwFHlx6ycZ9dflvv-XQaay2J9_2KAYOSs-B/s1600/OverTheShoulder.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxVIecgJG4UkLIT4dqofE6J-CxdE3fePuhbIefDQvMP65xFJTYn6dLCfHbl2c90-jeZDGZvF5_0LV9JkID7DChkGBfuWMDmMxeJ339W4iIxxwFHlx6ycZ9dflvv-XQaay2J9_2KAYOSs-B/s320/OverTheShoulder.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_oVPh2-JA9UrIltmx_aYyMnIZhgUWZwUf-iKQzm11fJ2fd5IHeTbMtCgsHk7e4gk7GeP1ShXexNkuF7CXJ0aKb3u3td6y_NA2trmabhOKwDFv6mJGh2Cy1HhDi7X5SFfUnECwN8YBFOfI/s1600/Pillars.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_oVPh2-JA9UrIltmx_aYyMnIZhgUWZwUf-iKQzm11fJ2fd5IHeTbMtCgsHk7e4gk7GeP1ShXexNkuF7CXJ0aKb3u3td6y_NA2trmabhOKwDFv6mJGh2Cy1HhDi7X5SFfUnECwN8YBFOfI/s320/Pillars.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzIixjHh2Z2D7faq_-j64QzpQZdeuFwMNU-KaRLN2u4YiOxngfJYfNh-WthMnE71kKAgeS6cTULKx3Oy5t1LcTtHyvD3-odCVLFqqTnYfFRrxtFjsWHomYFkFModL9-SzqqwMWsmjdU5Pl/s1600/turn2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzIixjHh2Z2D7faq_-j64QzpQZdeuFwMNU-KaRLN2u4YiOxngfJYfNh-WthMnE71kKAgeS6cTULKx3Oy5t1LcTtHyvD3-odCVLFqqTnYfFRrxtFjsWHomYFkFModL9-SzqqwMWsmjdU5Pl/s320/turn2.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-81517457756764234582016-05-19T20:37:00.000-07:002016-05-19T20:37:03.815-07:0030 by 30: Get a Pen PalThis one took some research. I looked at adopting a soldier, but while I think that's an amazing thing, it wouldn't give me the back and forth I was looking for. Then I looked at a lot of different pen pal sites, but it just seemed . . . suspicious. So, finally, I went to Facebook. I asked my friends if they knew of anyone willing to have a pen pal, to write "old fashioned" hand written letters to each other. What I wanted was to have someone who lived in a culture different from my own, so I could learn about it. I've lived in the same state my whole life, so I thought that would be good for me.<br />
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One of Sis's old roommates (who had lived a lot of places) knew someone whose wife was willing to write me. Which is how I met Pen Pal! She lives in Switzerland and it's been interesting to learn about a different part of the world and a completely different person than what I'm used to. It's been great. I love getting her letters and she's a fun writer. I hope she thinks I am in return . . .<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqnljtEemeTPQEFjGsWs7zlMglGZR036rwo5pHeA1ys7xDZsGw281m0JEElSnhtwuyZk3jKR8jkHSD1pLGKn3TShTPSc3NnjvfKuRhyU4ePnKJAqIlOqPZIc5bwgnNlYSjDFEuGt4wPRuz/s1600/IMG_2790.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqnljtEemeTPQEFjGsWs7zlMglGZR036rwo5pHeA1ys7xDZsGw281m0JEElSnhtwuyZk3jKR8jkHSD1pLGKn3TShTPSc3NnjvfKuRhyU4ePnKJAqIlOqPZIc5bwgnNlYSjDFEuGt4wPRuz/s320/IMG_2790.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Swiss stamps!</td></tr>
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Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-14697285838162761062016-04-02T09:17:00.000-07:002016-04-02T09:17:07.902-07:0030 before 30: See a BalletLast night I went to Capitol Theatre to see "Beauty and the Beast," performed by Ballet West.<br />
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It wasn't quite what I was expecting, since it seemed to be geared toward kids/families. There was narration and dialogue, and it was only about 1.5 hours (including the intermission). So maybe it doesn't <i>really</i> count, but I'm going to count it--though I may try to go to another ballet later.<br />
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I love going to shows and performances. The moment I walked into the theater, I was filled with happiness. The murmur of the audience, the red curtains, gold leaf, and chandeliers, everything adds to the experience. It made me glad to see so many little girls there--some with their dads, some with their moms, some with both parents--wearing sparkly or poofy dresses.<br />
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The costumes were beautiful--especially the good fairy's, which looked like rose petals. The dancing was beautiful.<br />
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The Beast was so dramatic, reminding me of Prince Edward from <i>Enchanted</i>. However it was, I liked having a night out, seeing an interpretation of one of my favorite fairy tales.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiigNzc51NE2V4wTOAZT01qam6IdQXYLALC2CDOeysp6G1TL4syvK_SrYkfsw_ImhI6AeApXUHYCUNZVwHDFAbJZ0yYz_qqdjSEJnX6XTZWSlrGTihUhqpKGPg6IlTP7kRTnHxOTrglX-8u/s1600/IMG_2704.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiigNzc51NE2V4wTOAZT01qam6IdQXYLALC2CDOeysp6G1TL4syvK_SrYkfsw_ImhI6AeApXUHYCUNZVwHDFAbJZ0yYz_qqdjSEJnX6XTZWSlrGTihUhqpKGPg6IlTP7kRTnHxOTrglX-8u/s320/IMG_2704.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The stage, from my seat. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwBgXNOae9SK8H4Rszbqu5Wf8mIiCkghcQAY2Cq79F5gC0Ybcs4246UmIafVp8hDB5t6FtbX-Zla4lNHUySXrMZAAWwC8a4FRt0vrSQ03ssW4unvvSBvPI7VMxojtio19YLGMNJnC5xkYa/s1600/IMG_2706.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwBgXNOae9SK8H4Rszbqu5Wf8mIiCkghcQAY2Cq79F5gC0Ybcs4246UmIafVp8hDB5t6FtbX-Zla4lNHUySXrMZAAWwC8a4FRt0vrSQ03ssW4unvvSBvPI7VMxojtio19YLGMNJnC5xkYa/s320/IMG_2706.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The main chandelier.</td></tr>
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Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-35668890847957405902016-03-29T17:58:00.001-07:002016-03-30T07:59:28.733-07:0030 before 30: Get HennaLast weekend was Salt Lake Comic Con FanX. I was walking around the vendor with Kid K while Sis fed Baby B when I saw a big sign proclaiming "<a href="http://mountainmehndi.com/">HENNA</a>". What a great opportunity to check something off my list! So on Saturday I went and got henna.<br />
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I did an "artist's special"--I paid the money and just told the artist that I liked lotus flowers and she made up this design right on the spot.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjINvC89W7d8wQumtoWWDK8vx3Tgf_SL2pgKTiDFxtOTcpDwH7qRp35Pdq6EJ9EPxWEq9lPAEr2PTr80xz1sgwCtcqLa1uD0Ij1z6gAZl8aHrkOpaj0kewBLfUQeQoXxOPKIpkmzOT6zze8/s1600/IMG_2688.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjINvC89W7d8wQumtoWWDK8vx3Tgf_SL2pgKTiDFxtOTcpDwH7qRp35Pdq6EJ9EPxWEq9lPAEr2PTr80xz1sgwCtcqLa1uD0Ij1z6gAZl8aHrkOpaj0kewBLfUQeQoXxOPKIpkmzOT6zze8/s320/IMG_2688.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was taken right after it was done.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Xyr03MIZhDuvM3Tz_fFytBfuR1P3C8kP1H-FF1z4-9MyW8w17jIYCqXepiVsCnM4A8Lh4jOu2WdlhURoJiFXkBq0agjvnQwa4wNA4Uj3bV2dscKUXb6Wn6fYOXFbiuk69SExecCA4w9E/s1600/IMG_2695.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Xyr03MIZhDuvM3Tz_fFytBfuR1P3C8kP1H-FF1z4-9MyW8w17jIYCqXepiVsCnM4A8Lh4jOu2WdlhURoJiFXkBq0agjvnQwa4wNA4Uj3bV2dscKUXb6Wn6fYOXFbiuk69SExecCA4w9E/s320/IMG_2695.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">After I peeled off the paste that night. It has since darkened.</td></tr>
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<span id="goog_1376173071"></span><span id="goog_1376173072"></span>Didn't she do such a beautiful job? I also liked the smell of the henna--like a mix between turmeric and nutmeg.<br />
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I'd most definitely get henna again.Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-9358784567801985002016-03-10T13:23:00.002-08:002016-03-10T13:32:44.830-08:0030 before 30: Learn to Oil PaintNow, I can't say that this is <i>finished</i>, since I feel that learning an art skill is a life long endeavor--something I've learned from my 24 years of playing the piano. But I have learned a lot since I started in January and I want to mark something off my list. :)<br />
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For most of my life, I thought that art was not for me. I thought it took a talent that I wasn't born with and so, as much as I love art, I never tried to really learn. About 8 years ago when I was on my study abroad, I took a drawing class, because I needed at least 2 classes and that one seemed better than the other. That class was the first time that I realized that I could draw something somewhat well. There were a lot of things I didn't understand and no matter how many times it was explained to me and how I tried, apparently it was never right (looked right to me though!). When it came to "figure drawing" and we were sent out to the museum to pick a statue to draw, I drew something I could be proud of.<br />
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I wasn't the only one who chose that statue (to be fair, it was probably the easiest statue to draw, so it's not surprising), and I think it's interesting that each person drew the statue differently. We unconsciously inserted our own perceptions of beauty and women (the statue is of Eve), and I think art, in a way, shows how each individual views the world, even if we are all drawing/painting/whatever the same thing.<br />
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That was a long winded introduction into my painting. I have seen myself improve these past couple of months. The way I look at the world is different; I find myself looking at colors, shadows, shapes, etc. I bought a sketchbook. After viewing a lot of different tutorials online, I have become encouraged by how positive and helpful these people are--people who believe that anyone can do art. They explain sketching things out in a way that I can follow--even simple human figures. They are teaching me different ways of interpreting the literal world into something that resembles it, but doesn't at the same time. Something that tells a story.<br />
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I know that I'm never going to be a great artist. I'm not going to be paid thousands of dollars for a painting. But I've found something that calms me, that gives me joy in creation. Creating something that I can look at, that I can give to someone else to show my love for them, that's pretty amazing.<br />
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One thing I would like to learn is how not to get messy. I watch these artists on YouTube and they may get a little paint on their hands. For me, it's like paint is just drawn to my hands the moment I open my pallet. And then I get paint all up my arm. It's a good thing I have an outfit specifically for painting, but those are also covered in paint. (There is something about the fact that you can tell that I'm right handed by where most of the paint is on my clothes. Like, if I were arrested of murder or something and the person was killed by someone left handed, these clothes would prove me innocent)<br />
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Here are some samples of my paintings:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/12366385_10102325852774369_970959704611483940_n.jpg?oh=36e24f5d1c38e91c1d328785c98be3e5&oe=5759C79D" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/12366385_10102325852774369_970959704611483940_n.jpg?oh=36e24f5d1c38e91c1d328785c98be3e5&oe=5759C79D" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first painting I ever did. Still makes me laugh.<br />
I was trying to follow a Bob Ross video.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/12522986_10102353395558409_489739541744558699_n.jpg?oh=235822481f096270ae0aec64052b05c0&oe=57539645" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/12522986_10102353395558409_489739541744558699_n.jpg?oh=235822481f096270ae0aec64052b05c0&oe=57539645" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My second painting. It was slightly better. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
After this point, I got some advice on better paints, which made a big difference.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xft1/v/t1.0-9/12654547_10102391161589979_5385434500022958113_n.jpg?oh=b444cd61bcc2096fba90f352e6bcc8c7&oe=574CC9B7" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xft1/v/t1.0-9/12654547_10102391161589979_5385434500022958113_n.jpg?oh=b444cd61bcc2096fba90f352e6bcc8c7&oe=574CC9B7" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the first painting I was truly proud of.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xla1/v/t1.0-9/12744698_10102430060007239_668801161410060872_n.jpg?oh=ecd7b26a3f1afca0887a4310be707768&oe=57572DC7" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xla1/v/t1.0-9/12744698_10102430060007239_668801161410060872_n.jpg?oh=ecd7b26a3f1afca0887a4310be707768&oe=57572DC7" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another attempt at mountains. Look how much better they are!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xla1/v/t1.0-9/12512258_10102441735554349_7179468426639462736_n.jpg?oh=7f733cf6b081bfbb804e7087916801f1&oe=575D3DE1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://scontent-atl3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xla1/v/t1.0-9/12512258_10102441735554349_7179468426639462736_n.jpg?oh=7f733cf6b081bfbb804e7087916801f1&oe=575D3DE1" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My latest (finished) painting. "Second Star to the Right"<br />
In my sketch book I have a lot of plans for paintings<br />
based on my favorite movies and books. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-85965586233729645382016-02-20T21:26:00.004-08:002016-02-20T21:26:58.862-08:0030 before 30: Change My Job SituationLast month I applied to another job. For nearly the past two years, I had been looking for and applying for jobs off and on. I had started to become discouraged. I'd apply for a job and either never hear from them or get an interview and then never hear from them. <div>
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It's a hard cycle to constantly be in.</div>
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So when I applied to this job, I was like, "Well, I did what I could do, time to move on." </div>
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Then I received an email requesting a phone interview. That seemed to go pretty well. That night I got called to set up an in person interview. Two days later--nervous as all getout--I had my in person interview.</div>
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And I totally bombed it. Seriously. I started my interview with "I'm just really nervous . . ." which I'm pretty sure is number 2 on the list of interview don'ts, closely following "Don't wear sweatpants". And I felt that every answer I gave was wandering and tangential, and worst of all, WAY too long. I found myself thinking "Shut up. Stop talking now." This all means that I left the interview feeling pretty sure I wasn't going to get the job. And completely exhausted because of how nervous I had been all day.</div>
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I sleepwalked through the weekend, trying to forget, but having to relive it whenever someone asked how my interview had gone. And then Monday I was asked to come in for a third interview. That completely blew the socks off me. </div>
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Tuesday I went in, and left with an unofficial job offer! What the what?!</div>
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In two days time, I will start my new job as an Editor, course of study for the College of Healthcare Professionals at Western Governors University.</div>
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ACK!</div>
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:)</div>
Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-43465239309836440072016-01-05T16:38:00.001-08:002016-01-06T06:26:23.358-08:0030 Before 30: Make a SouffleDuring the holiday, my mom and I attempted another of my 30 before 30 goals: Successfully make a souffle!<br />
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I had wanted to try it out for a while, but it seemed pretty overwhelming, so I'm glad I had my mom to help.<br />
<br />
Well, we did it on one try! We made <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/868486/chocolate-souffle?xsc=soc_pin_2013_12_13_Dessert_Christmas_H&crlt.pid=camp.k3JJAgYpjfHg">this recipe</a> from Martha Stewart.<br />
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Here are a few pictures:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3cUxbQbxFkscJs-lSB8nKghRhZs7WOHwrISFdJXLD9C03MJUe89Lv0BzyqtHuIj3M9OwIyFkexJskSUzVTTpfXieSCeY4Kgh6fz-aHsXzYNvJb2uUht4zPYar3rdHK2lY5OfRWPVcpSiB/s1600/IMG_2461.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3cUxbQbxFkscJs-lSB8nKghRhZs7WOHwrISFdJXLD9C03MJUe89Lv0BzyqtHuIj3M9OwIyFkexJskSUzVTTpfXieSCeY4Kgh6fz-aHsXzYNvJb2uUht4zPYar3rdHK2lY5OfRWPVcpSiB/s320/IMG_2461.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Buttered and sugared souffle dish </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZT32-xaCdmn88IYbnpFKcPvem6f8BtYqTlAQnXjAseWCOafTi3KzF1uI3ucuZwXv98ef04qtypNyaQ1JIBBt8fDDLYzls3wzdqHmcHvZa9agF65I3G0dN7Brt8cpnciQjYE6NLmhDN7_5/s1600/IMG_2463.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZT32-xaCdmn88IYbnpFKcPvem6f8BtYqTlAQnXjAseWCOafTi3KzF1uI3ucuZwXv98ef04qtypNyaQ1JIBBt8fDDLYzls3wzdqHmcHvZa9agF65I3G0dN7Brt8cpnciQjYE6NLmhDN7_5/s320/IMG_2463.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chocolate base</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjldfCzx3H2buqV6s3n2ki2NjGq53SaJ6smUXTL9as0-6LPw7JjHFQ3oFUtuVT7D9ADzz1jMvHqA-p8iuyCF5uPzikz1S1mWBDhnDgXiWPd3LQENdUXfAw2T5haZp_yENvnBMgXHd4rkmpD/s1600/IMG_2464.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjldfCzx3H2buqV6s3n2ki2NjGq53SaJ6smUXTL9as0-6LPw7JjHFQ3oFUtuVT7D9ADzz1jMvHqA-p8iuyCF5uPzikz1S1mWBDhnDgXiWPd3LQENdUXfAw2T5haZp_yENvnBMgXHd4rkmpD/s320/IMG_2464.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beating the egg whites</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTSrIQlfdU-wruC5EkeJVqPyi5XyFp1WWhKU5jk9U6lUVvwmhrdUST58YDkIKMWJFO3UFUOSaua5K2cNBq2huk7wjPPQRdZjp5_cEeffl7cZCESXEbXuAyIY0Hv7ndlbdejwtQUlRgWvG3/s1600/IMG_2465.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTSrIQlfdU-wruC5EkeJVqPyi5XyFp1WWhKU5jk9U6lUVvwmhrdUST58YDkIKMWJFO3UFUOSaua5K2cNBq2huk7wjPPQRdZjp5_cEeffl7cZCESXEbXuAyIY0Hv7ndlbdejwtQUlRgWvG3/s320/IMG_2465.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In the dish with buttered parchment paper around it</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBqY_3cnk4ukJH9n01NYwHssPTw9Vf7uA9ObMKovNjWrrPevDqaUFfingVrryAp11TYHNkRT5Adi7SHNlF5KCwDIvPU2m-Unpl1IUlJW6OTIvdOeyy4pK_odBupVncU3Z3rerySiGvqAhn/s1600/IMG_2467.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBqY_3cnk4ukJH9n01NYwHssPTw9Vf7uA9ObMKovNjWrrPevDqaUFfingVrryAp11TYHNkRT5Adi7SHNlF5KCwDIvPU2m-Unpl1IUlJW6OTIvdOeyy4pK_odBupVncU3Z3rerySiGvqAhn/s320/IMG_2467.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Complete!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And it tasted pretty good too.<br />
<span id="goog_1836734316"></span><span id="goog_1836734317"></span><br />Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-77805991175322174452015-11-15T10:36:00.000-08:002015-11-15T10:36:01.832-08:0030 before 30: Climb a Tree<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgke8GDgB-txMI2To365k6Rozky5a53VEvQk2cmbrZLd7WF2NsU1M5UGn1tG-5Pd_9dtl1BFMuMxetMzh3ePXCsha0MfnkznTLMjZk3ceMg-EB4hIEsAcmeGpfTo6cqoIlgV43Fc7k03Hih/s1600/IMG_2317.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgke8GDgB-txMI2To365k6Rozky5a53VEvQk2cmbrZLd7WF2NsU1M5UGn1tG-5Pd_9dtl1BFMuMxetMzh3ePXCsha0MfnkznTLMjZk3ceMg-EB4hIEsAcmeGpfTo6cqoIlgV43Fc7k03Hih/s320/IMG_2317.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Yesterday I went to my brother's house to help him plant some stuff. While I was there I thought that I could mark something off of my list and climb one of his trees!<br />
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After giving me a boost (because I'm short), I crouched in the tree looking for the next place to go, Bro coaching me from the ground. Then I remembered something--I have a big fear of falling. I went to a place about 6 inches higher than I was, wrapped my arms around it and asked, "Does this count?"<br />
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Bro: "Do you think it counts?"<br />
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Me: "Yes! Take the picture!"<br />
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Getting down was even scarier, and involved Bro laughing at me and telling me that he had me and to move my other leg, and now my arm.<br />
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So, I don't think I'm going to be trying that again (however romantic climbing trees sounds in my head).<br />
<a href="" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-61685340147444320012015-09-09T14:37:00.002-07:002015-09-09T14:37:58.178-07:0030 before 30: Sign up to be a bone marrow donor<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Okay, so it isn't quite complete yet because I'm still waiting for the kit and then I'll have to send it back it, but I'm calling it complete. </div>
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I read through all the information on <a href="http://bethematch.org/">bethematch.org</a> about what it means to be a bone marrow donor and the different methods they use. I also learned that only 1 in 500 people on the registry are ever called to donate, which is surprising, and that you stay in the registry until you're 61. So I could never be called, or I could be called next week or in 5 years. Kind of interesting to think about. </div>
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This is an amazing thing and I really encourage everyone to look into it and consider it. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJCRzkCZ21UXXLT82VEOeZSlPF2SO0K_YJo7iQ3Qh-6YVm0vxhDYQgZyXWFuj31bKI19eDwb8htH3Fw8WZJ3BtGXJ-JsH9y5gNizIl6D3HvXGBSRbX3LGpUJOFY6PZFOAmhfBcZVOM3onZ/s1600/Screen+Shot+2015-09-09+at+12.59.23+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJCRzkCZ21UXXLT82VEOeZSlPF2SO0K_YJo7iQ3Qh-6YVm0vxhDYQgZyXWFuj31bKI19eDwb8htH3Fw8WZJ3BtGXJ-JsH9y5gNizIl6D3HvXGBSRbX3LGpUJOFY6PZFOAmhfBcZVOM3onZ/s320/Screen+Shot+2015-09-09+at+12.59.23+PM.png" width="288" /></a></div>
<br />Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-62921014536828529622015-09-03T16:35:00.000-07:002018-04-01T11:29:21.412-07:0030 before 30So, I know that it's a little cliche or whatever, but I decided to make a list of things I want to do before I turn 30. That gives me 2 1/2 years to complete the list, which I am definitely going to need for some of these items. :) The reason I thought about doing a 30 before 30 list is because there are things that I keep saying I want to do, but I never do them, so I'm giving myself a deadline. And also, I was just starting to feel like I haven't done a lot lately.<br />
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I tried to pick a wide variety of items that would improve me spiritually, physically, and mentally, and that would hopefully teach me something. There are also a few things that will hopefully help me get closer to my family.<br />
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So here's the list:<br />
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<b>Learn to ride a motorcycle</b><br />
I've wanted to do this for a while, but I'm kind of a scaredy cat. I'm thinking that maybe I can convince my brother to take the class with me.<br />
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<b><a href="http://pianokid13.blogspot.com/2016/07/30-before-30-finish-writing-book.html">Finish writing a book</a></b><br />
I'm great at starting them, not so great at finishing them.<br />
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<b><a href="http://pianokid13.blogspot.com/2018/03/30-before-30-go-back-to-england.html">Go back to England</a></b><br />
When I turn 30 it will have been 10 years since I went. This is the next trip I'm going to save up for.<br />
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<b>Learn to do my own make-up/hair</b><br />
To be honest, I just fake it and hope it doesn't look horrible.<br />
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<b>See the Northern Lights</b><br />
Apparently there's a place in Colorado where you can see them in January.<br />
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<b><a href="http://pianokid13.blogspot.com/2016/03/30-before-30-learn-to-oil-paint.html">Learn to oil paint</a></b><br />
Sis is gonna help with this. :)<br />
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<b>Have my first kiss</b><br />
Yes, I realize how lame it is to be 27 and never been kissed. And I also realize that this is dependent on another person.<br />
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<b>Catch fireflies</b><br />
I have never seen fireflies. We don't have them in Utah. I may have to go visit a friend somewhere.<br />
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<b><a href="http://pianokid13.blogspot.com/2016/05/30-before-30-have-professional-photos.html">Have professional pictures taken</a></b><br />
Other than school photos, I have never had this done.<br />
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<b>Enter something in a contest</b><br />
Don't know what at this moment, or what contest, but something.<br />
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<b><a href="http://pianokid13.blogspot.com/2016/07/30-before-30-buy-something-from-tiffany.html">Buy <i>something</i> from Tiffany</a></b><br />
They have a whole section of things for under $250. And since I don't think anyone will ever buy me something from Tiffany, I'm gonna give the blue box to myself.<br />
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<b><a href="http://pianokid13.blogspot.com/2016/06/30-before-30-create-work-of-art-by.html">Create a "work of art" by throwing balloons full of paint at a canvas</a></b></div>
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OH YEAH! This is gonna be freaking awesome. Sis already said that she would do it with me and maybe we can have Kid K (who was once Baby E) help with it.</div>
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<b><a href="http://pianokid13.blogspot.com/2016/02/30-before-30-change-my-job-situation.html">Change my job situation</a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://pianokid13.blogspot.com/2016/01/30-before-30-make-souffle.html">Successfully make a soufflé</a></b></div>
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When I was unemployed, I bought all the stuff to make a chocolate soufflé, but then I chickened out because it seemed too <i>involved</i>. </div>
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<b><a href="http://pianokid13.blogspot.com/2016/11/30-before-30-make-video-and-post-it-to_1.html">Make a video and post it on YouTube</a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://pianokid13.blogspot.com/2016/12/30-before-30-have-handmade-christmas.html">Have a hand-made Christmas</a></b></div>
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Surprise, family!</div>
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<b><a href="http://pianokid13.blogspot.com/2017/01/30-before-30-apply-to-grad-school-again.html">Apply to grad school, again</a></b></div>
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I have three more years before my GRE scores become invalid and I have to take it again.</div>
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<b><a href="http://pianokid13.blogspot.com/2016/03/30-before-30-get-henna.html">Get henna</a></b></div>
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A lot of lists say something about getting a tattoos. I don't want anything permanent, but henna is beautiful.</div>
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<b>Buy an awesome costume for comic con</b></div>
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<b><a href="http://pianokid13.blogspot.com/2016/04/30-before-30-see-ballet.html">See a ballet</a></b></div>
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The last (and only, I think) ballet I saw was <i>The Nutcracker</i> when I was pretty young. I don't think I appreciated it.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><a href="http://pianokid13.blogspot.com/2015/11/30-before-30-climb-tree.html">Climb a tree</a></b></div>
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My bro just moved into his house and it has some trees that look very climbable.</div>
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<b>Get a bull's eye</b></div>
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I've gotten an interest in archery lately, so this will make me go more often.</div>
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<b>Finish<i> David Copperfield</i></b></div>
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I started this 3? years ago. It's time to finish it.</div>
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<b><a href="http://pianokid13.blogspot.com/2016/05/30-by-30-get-pen-pal.html">Get a pen pal</a></b></div>
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I like getting letters. I may adopt a soldier or something. </div>
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<br /></div>
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<b><a href="http://pianokid13.blogspot.com/2015/09/30-before-30-sign-up-to-be-bone-marrow.html">Learn more about being a bone marrow donor and sign-up on</a> <a href="http://bethematch.org/">bethematch.org</a></b></div>
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<b>Have my dad teach me to turn</b></div>
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My grandpa taught Sis and Bro how to turn wooden bowls on a lathe. I never really wanted to because tools scare me, which I think is the reason why I should.</div>
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<b>Attend the temple once a month</b></div>
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I should really be better about this, so I'm giving myself a goal.</div>
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<b>Go to my 10 year high school reunion</b></div>
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Next year, guys. It's gonna be weird. Also, I didn't even get invited to my 5 year, so we'll see what happens this time around.</div>
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<b><a href="http://pianokid13.blogspot.com/2016/05/30-before-30-finish-book-of-mormon.html">Finish the Book of Mormon</a></b></div>
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<b><a href="http://pianokid13.blogspot.com/2018/04/30-before-30-begin-process-of-buying.html">Begin the process of buying a house</a></b></div>
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This is contingent on finding a different, more stable job. But it's always been part of what I called my "alternate life plan" (which is starting to become just my life plan), which was to first have my own home by the time I was 30. We'll see what happens.</div>
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So, there it is! I'm going to print it out and put it somewhere where I can see it everyday to motivate me to do it. I'll keep you updated.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9zVKD2OrW95A9W1r1OQRF257wSYLJhDuN6jSWExHBSH2N6MVieYi6sGkTWQIsPqNpI_f4V0v8N7kqrj0t1i4knbQx1vi10zdmxKzoU1xHf1KOzaWMcldIy9Id5qoLYwHLzQFPpSAndy77/s1600/30Before30.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9zVKD2OrW95A9W1r1OQRF257wSYLJhDuN6jSWExHBSH2N6MVieYi6sGkTWQIsPqNpI_f4V0v8N7kqrj0t1i4knbQx1vi10zdmxKzoU1xHf1KOzaWMcldIy9Id5qoLYwHLzQFPpSAndy77/s320/30Before30.jpg" width="247" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2254768619274349033" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=2254768619274349033" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-5452725110749570332015-06-07T08:42:00.000-07:002015-06-07T08:42:29.084-07:00On Being HappyI know it's been a LONG time since I've written on this blog. With my book review blog, work, and other writing, I haven't been keeping up with this as well as I used to do.<br />
<br />
The last month or so has been filled with some really hard things, personally. I've been angrier than I have been in a while, and sadder, too. This has all just added to my stress. So about two weeks ago, I decided to start exercising again.<br />
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Those who know me, know that I do not like exercising. Yeah yeah, it's good for you, blah blah blah, but the act of doing it? Nope. I don't like it. But since I decided too start, I've been working out 6 days a week. It's just a little bit, but it's something and I've been lengthening how long each week.<br />
<br />
Then something happened this week.<br />
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I've worked out everyday after work (just at home with the help of apps and a Wii). Every morning I've been reading my scriptures as I eat breakfast. And on Wednesday I went to the temple after work. Then on Thursday, I realized something. I was getting my breakfast ready and I stopped because something felt different. I took stock of my body and my mind and I realized what it was: I felt <i>good</i>. I felt less stressed and a little happier. And that is a big deal for me. Especially at 6:45 in the morning.<br />
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I learned something that I had been hearing all along. If you take care of your physical and spiritual health, your mental health will benefit. Which is why I'm determined to keep exercising, going to church, reading my scriptures, and attending the temple. Because the blessings of them far outweigh any inconvenience I might think they create.Whitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2254768619274349033.post-14000103546902896292015-01-07T19:14:00.001-08:002015-01-07T19:14:45.550-08:00Dear Baby E, This ChristmasDear Baby E,<br />
<br />
You aren't so much a baby anymore--you are almost 18 months! After you and your parents moved to Utah, I've seen you grow and change so much!<br />
<br />
Here are a few highlights from our Christmas together:<br />
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You were sick the whole time, but there were still moments of sweetness.<br />
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You LOVE helping to clean. You actually just love helping. First, you help make dinner. After dinner you want to help wash the dishes. You like to vacuum and sweep. Basically, if someone is doing something, you want to do it too. And you are so quick at learning! I'm not biased or anything, but I'm pretty sure that you're one of the smartest kids around.<br />
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Speaking of which, we worked on your animal sounds. You know cow (mmmm) and sheep (aaaa). We also taught you what sharks say (doo do. doo do. doo do doododododododo) and sea turtles (duuude). We're still working on the sea turtles.<br />
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Then I taught you how to "touch" like Gr. Grandpa does, and how to fist pump and explode it. It's basically the cutest thing ever.<br />
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Except for one. We were playing one time, just you and me. And you picked up your little Hello Kitty bag and walked toward the hall. You stopped part way there and turned and waved. I waved back. Then you came back toward me and gave me a kiss (the first time you had ever given me a kiss!). Then you walked back toward the hall, turned and waved at me again. After I waved, you came back and gave me another kiss before walking all the down the hall to see what Mommy and Grandma were up to. It was probably the highlight of my weekend.<br />
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Even when you are grumpy and won't eat or sleep or wake me up before 6 am, I still love you, girl.<br />
<br />
Your AuntieWhitneyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06321342515443339613noreply@blogger.com0