Yes, life is good.

 Well, I have so much to catch up on so bare with me as this post gets longer and longer, but I've been away from this blog for way too long and have so many wonderful things in my life that need to be journaled about.

To start out, let's go back to July...yes, July (I told you there's a lot I haven't had a chance to write about yet).

Sam and Bre came and spent the 4th of July in McCall with my family and we had an absolute blast! They fell in love with the town that owns my heart, and I got a chance to truly be home and show them what makes it so great. 

We enjoyed some jet skiing...

tanning...

Getting lost on the way to hiking...

Finally hiking... 

bonfires...

Badminton tournaments...

Ice Cream Alley (of course)...

 fireworks at the lake... 

and laughing until three in the morning...

SO much fun with my girls!

Then a little later on in July, Kyndra and I went to the ADAM LAMBERT concert and had an absolute blast! We had pretty good seats (although they could have possibly been better, right sister?) :]] And got some nice pictures of Orianthi (the greatest female guitarist I have EVER seen...hands down). And, of course, our boyfriend, Adam. 

We also enjoyed the Sons of Sylvia and Carrie Underwood concert this summer, which was easily one of the best performances I have ever seen in my life. She is just as good live as she is on her albums and definitely knows how to put on a good show...no wonder she's won Best Concert over and over! Plus her many wardrobe changes were fabulous as well...

We celebrated Grandpa Vaun's 80th birthday in August with several of the cousins and great-grandkids all together at the park. We had a fun time together eating good food, visiting, walking through the fish hatcheries, and celebrating grandpa!

The end of the summer was filled with more family memories being made in Brownlee with the Leedom family (of course), and me finishing up my three jobs and preparing to head back to Rexburg for my last semester of college! It's now obviously November, and I've only got a week until Thanksgiving break (which I am greatly looking forward to), and then only 3 more weeks of school after we get back. That's so crazy to think about, but I am so excited to be winding down! 

Rexburg has been good to me this last semester, however. I was extremely blessed to get some of the greatest roommates I could have possibly asked for. They're actually more like sisters than roommates, and I just love them to pieces! Sure, we have our issues and tiffs like anyone who lives together day in and day out has, but we love each other like crazy and have already created some of the funniest inside jokes and memories of my life! I really think that the Lord knew I needed Amy and Rachel in my life this last semester of school, and I have no doubt that people are placed into our lives at certain times for very specific reasons. They have taught me so much and pushed me to become a better person. We've made new friends together, laughed together, cried together, shared our testimonies and lifted each other up, made plans for our future together, gained and lost weight together :]], cuddled together, danced together, and so much more! Here's just a few pictures of our adventures...

of course we can't forget Michael and Alden...

They even convinced me to dress up for Halloween which, if you know me, is a big deal...

It's been a good last few months that's for sure! In the mean time I've been studying and trying to find time to balance life and school and church and everything else on my plate. I've been stressing about trying to figure out my future and whether or not I should go to grad school next year, but I haven't been able to really feel good about a specific program or area of study. I have, however, been talking a lot to my friend Holly Holland who I've known since we were just kids, and she's put her mission papers in and is now waiting for her call, which has gotten me thinking about whether or not I should serve a mission as well. I have plans to student teach in Boise this winter at Valivue High School, and if I do a good job I've been told I could potentially take over for the current teacher while she goes on maternity leave (which would be some good experience and money), but after the school year is over, I am highly considering going out and serving. I love the gospel and I am so grateful for the blessings and knowledge it brings into my life, and I can't think of anything greater than getting to testify of my Savior for 18 months and teach other people about what I know and love. Nothing is set in stone yet, but it is definitely something I am constantly praying about now and considering for the next couple years of my life. The Lord will help me to know where I need to be and what I should do, and I have no doubt that He knows exactly what is best for me right now. 

My life is good. I love my family and things are falling into place more and more every day. I am excited to finish up this school year and get on with the next phase of my life, but I am grateful for the great times I have been able to have this year and the people I've been able to meet and get to know. Yes, life is good. 

it's all an experience.

Let me first start this post by saying that this summer has been crazy. 

crazy busy

crazy fun

crazy fast

crazy stressful

just CRAZY.

That being said, I haven't been able to find much time to get on here and blog about the many events and jobs and experiences that actually made the summer so crazy. I wish I did. But now I am officially done with all three of my jobs and spending one last week relaxing and preparing for the trip back over to school one last time. Once I get myself organized and put together, I promise to put up some posts of the summer's events, and hopefully find the time and motivation to be better about journaling on this blog that really does mean so much to me. I have tons of pictures, stories, inside jokes, truths, etc. that need to be shared [even if it's mostly just for my benefit]. It feels good to be done and heading back for my last semester. Life goes fast these days, that's for certain, but it's all an experience and I wouldn't change a thing. 

This is why I'm happy today.

Well, this random rainy weather today has given me an unexpected day off, and needless to say, this does not hurt my feelings in any way. So far I've thoroughly enjoyed the sleeping in, reading, catching up on favorite tv shows, and taking care of several things on my long list of to-dos. On top of all that, my wonderful brother posted something that made my heart race with sheer joy. You all know I love my Boise State Broncos...so THIS is why I'm happy today:

Oh yes. This really happened. 

GO BRONCOS!

[only 26 days till season kickoff against Virginia Tech...and I absolutely cannot wait!]

life is crazy.

Life is crazy, but things are good. 

Since my last post, I have been working three jobs (like a mad woman), trying to keep up on my online classes (don't worry mom, I'm still doing alright), and trying to enjoy summer in between. It's all a bit chaotic and I get overwhelmed on a daily basis, but I just keep telling myself that I need the money and that I can do anything for a short period of time. It's all coming together though. I've begun paying my parents back, swim lesson sessions are filling up, bosses are being flexible and understanding, school is getting closer (which is only exciting because it means I'm that much closer to being done with this whole college thing), and (perhaps best of all) Sam and Bre are coming to visit this weekend for an amazing weekend in McCall for the 4th of July! Oh, words cannot even describe how incredibly ecstatic I am for this! We've been counting down the days for the last three weeks, and I'll tell ya, it definitely helps having something to look forward to. Updates on the weekend adventures to come...

job three, redundancy, and mother nature.

Well, as of this afternoon, I now have three jobs. Yes, I realize this would seem that I will be making lots of money and living pretty comfortably, but no. I'm now working part time in the mornings as a substitute in the Child Development unit at the West YMCA...the only catch is that it's not guaranteed hours nor is it everyday as I'd hoped so I'm not really sure how much of an added income this is going to be. I am grateful to have it, don't get me wrong, I'm just not really sure if I'm going to make the kind of money I need, to do everything I have planned for the rest of the summer. Not only that, but I'm still struggling to keep up on my two online classes for school, which are turning out to be a little rougher than I'd planned for. If it isn't one thing it's another, eh? Gotta love adulthood.

On another note, I went up to McCall this weekend for some of the graduation festivities, and got to see a few of my close friends from high school that I rarely get to spend time with anymore, which was really nice. These good times were offset, however, by my getting to fill in every parent and teacher on my current jobs, location, schooling, love life, etc. etc. I am grateful for their interest (or at least attempt at such), but it got a little redundant after awhile...

Lastly, if it does not stop raining terenchally or the wind does not stop blowing like crazy, I will most certainly go crazy. I've been home for 8 weeks now, and have yet to have a glimpse of summer. Not happy, Mother Nature.

looking up.

ahh, things are starting to look up for Brianne. 

As of Friday, I finally have another job! I can't even begin to describe how good this feels. I am now one of the new swim instructors at Spurwing Country Club...and feeling a little nervous. But I'm super excited to get started, and thank goodness I have Stacie to help me learn the lesson plans and content I need to teach these kids.

Lovin my new office..

 I've got another interview this week for a third job in the mornings, which would be ideal (other than the fact that I would have to wake up at 5:45 every morning...yuck), but we're going to keep our fingers crossed one more time. Lessons start next Monday (as well as CPR recertification), and I can't wait! 

25 truths.

I am a big talker...but never carry out my talk.

I cry at Hallmark commercials and t.v. shows that probably aren't meant to be cried at.

I am addicted to VitaRains from Costco...and prefer Mango over all the others.

I plan strategic exits from my house when it's raining or snowing.

Hot chocolate makes me sick.

I love the smell of raw elk meat.

I talk to myself.

I don't give up old habits easily..even if I really want to.

I love peanut butter and can eat it by the spoonful.

My favorite color is pink, although I hardly have anything that color.

I develop an accent if I talk to people with one.

I search for new music nobody knows about and get genuinely upset when they begin to be discovered by other people.

I am 100% a hopeless romantic.

I love Jane Austin, but can honestly say I have never finished one of her books.

I like to believe there really is a Central Perk.

I get annoyed really easily.

If I married every man I've ever said "I'll marry him someday" about, I would have like 200 husbands.

I don't like the smell of sagebrush or lilac.

Loud music and intense bass make me sick to my stomach.

I like to give advice.

I only eat green bananas, green apples, and green grapes.

I have to put both my feet under the running water in the bathtub before I can turn the water off.

My eyes used to be blue, but now they're green.

I think most babies are ugly until they reach toddler age. 

I'm completely afraid of the dark.

As of today..

First, I cannot believe I am getting so close to finishing college... It's really kind of scary and intimidating to be honest, and the more I think about it, the more I feel like hyperventilating a little bit. I'm now officially finished with all of my student teaching application materials though which is one more huge component checked off my never-ending list of things to do. Now I just wait until the end of July sometime to hear where I'll be placed. I'm hoping for Boise considering I am poor, hate Utah, and would probably have severe anxiety issues in Las Vegas...so let's keep our fingers crossed! 

Second thing: I love Little Red, I really do, but he is going downhill fast. I took him into the shop today and it is looking like a $600 repair (at least)....ugh. Therefore, I need a new car (which is not an issue), BUT I can't afford to get a new car AND go to Maui. Do you see the problem? Yeah, it's getting complicated and stressful. I'm still holding out for a big lottery win, but in the event that that doesn't work out for me, I've got to figure out which one is most essential. Let this be a formal apology to Johnny in the event that the new car takes precedence here...

Third thing: Why is Facebook so addicting? It's stupid really. I've been contemplating this lately...there is nothing terribly exciting or great about it, and yet it consumes a pathetically large amount of my time. Yes, it's an easy distraction from the homework I should be doing, but other than the connection it gives me with friends, I really find no gratification in it. I honestly don't know half the people I'm friends with (and yet can't seem to figure out how to delete them), I have to sensor what I say to people because of the large amount of creepers that feel the need to read messages between people they don't really know, and for some reason people feel the need to share information about things like their lost farm animals or mafia affiliations on a regular basis. Why? That's really all I want to know.  

These are the things that have consumed me today.. 

Ohhh boy. I am so excited as I type this post, I almost can't stand it. I am literally one of the most talented radio listeners to ever walk this planet. Ever since I moved to Boise, I have been robbing the nice folks down at 103.3 of their many give-aways...and loving it. I don't know how I do it, but somehow I have mastered the art of being caller number 9. I've won:

-Gavin Degraw tickets

-$30 (twice)

-An invite to the exclusive Kissmass party

-A Wii

-Entered for BSU/Oregon football game tickets

and NOW....wait for it...

ADAM LAMBERT TICKETS!!

(I realize the picture was a dead give away but I enjoy dramatic effect)

I cannot even begin to describe to everyone how completely excited I am about this concert! Kyndra told me he was coming and BAM, I won tickets the next day! I had heard that anytime they play his song, they would give tickets to caller number 9 sooo I got in my car, heard the song, and called em up! I was actually caller number 7 and was so bummed but I hung up and called right back and (yep, you guessed it) was calla numba nine baby! The conversation with Kyndra afterwards went as follows:

Me: How much do you love me?

Kyndra: Umm, a lot? Why?

Me: No, no..how much do you REALLY love me?

Kyndra: I love you A LOT..why??

Me: Because I just won us some ADAM LAMBERT TICKETS!

Kyndra: WHAT. Are you kidding me right now?

Me: Nope

Kyndra: Are you serious? You better not be joking with me.

Me: I'm so dead serious

Kyndra: You are the best sister ever! If there was an award for coolest person, I would have to give it to you.

Aw, the glory of another fabulous win! I am so hysterically eager for July 19th..it's going to be epic. EPIC. Please just take a moment to examine the beautiful man in the picture above, I mean really. He is so gorgeous and every time he screams the high notes in his songs...oh man, my heart skips a few beats and I get all fluttery. I'm hoping that since it's at such a small venue, I'll be able to meet him....and then I have every intention of grabbing him and kissing him nice and good. There are high hopes that he'll turn straight for me people...let's keep our fingers crossed! Sigh...he's beautiful. Thank you 103.3 (yet again).

It's been WAY too long since I've been on here. I'd like to say that's due to lots of exciting and time consuming (not to mention compensating) activities but, alas, it's merely because I have been too lazy to get on here and journal. I know, LAME. That being said, there isn't really a whole lot to update on, other than I have been working at the Reel Theatre part time (and yes, loving the stench of popcorn and grease that seem to seep into my pores every day). It hasn't been too bad and at least it's a job! I keep telling myself I'm lucky to have at least one job when so many people don't have any! I'm still looking and applying for a second (possibly even third) job though. I've had several interviews and potential prospects BUT do I have a second job yet? Um, that would be a NO. I need money here people!

Besides all the work junk I've just been working on my online classes (still bitter about book prices and the essential RIP OFF that they are, but that's another rant I'll spare you all of for now). Quite honestly my life is pretty bo-ring right about now, but I keep telling myself at least I'm out of Rexburg for awhile! PLUS the weather has been ridiculous lately and I'm starting to get a little upset so, on behalf of everyone in this deary place, let's get a move on summer!

That's really all I've got for now, but I promise to be better about getting on here. (Mostly that is a promise to myself as there aren't many people who actually read this BUT it's a gesture.)

Will work for...money

Job searching. Yuck. I have been everywhere and only had a couple of places get back to me. I hate this process! I need money people, do you not understand?! I've found a couple of places that would be perfect, so I'm hoping to hear back from them soon, but all I have concluded from these last few days is this: I HATE JOB SEARCHING. Yep, that's all. It's stressful and frustrating. I'm a catch people, I really am! We'll see I guess....fingers crossed!

Smile break.

This truly put a smile on my face tonight.

Life is good.

Happy.
Stressed out still..but happy.
Good things come when you least expect them.
I love the feeling of being giddy.
I love not being able to stop smiling.
I love that feeling when something unexpected makes your heart jump with excitement.
I love the unexpectedness of a crush.
I love the giggling like a little girl.
I love getting a random phone call from that person.
I love randomly seeing his facebook status' dedicated to me.
I love having text message conversations with him that are completely flirtatious.
Sigh...life is good right now.

oh college.

Dear procrastination,
You are my closest friend and worst enemy. You cause me much stress and occasional heartburn. Yes, you do allow me to do things I love instead of things I don't, but then your cousin karma inevitably makes a visit and blesses me with that wonderful cycle of misery mentioned above. Please don't be upset, but I have high ambitions of breaking up with you in the near future. I'm sure we will both take this separation pretty hard, but it's time. Thank you for all of the good memories...

love, Brianne

Now that that's over, I should probably go work on my 2 research papers, brochure, quizzes, tests, projects, blah, blah, blah....

Oh College..

Brianne and Johnny do Rexburg.

Monday was a crazy day. I actually made it to ALL 3 of my classes (for the first time in a couple weeks) AND even got up early enough to shower before I went. That is a huge accomplishment too considering I reached this semester's "point of no longer caring what I look like" a long time ago. As shocking as that is, it wasn't the crazy part of the day. On my way home from class I got a text message from my friend Johnny saying something to the effect of "I thought about coming to see you today." Naturally I replied with "umm and why didn't you?!" In a crazy sequence of events that all occurred in a matter of about half an hour, I got a message saying "I'm on my way!"...and so it began.

For those of you who are asking yourselves, "Who in the world is Johnny?" Well, I will tell you. His dad and my dad met when they were about 13 or so, and became best friends. As a result, our families have been close ever since and Johnny and I grew up together making crazaaay memories that we still laugh about on a regular basis. We're kind of what you would call "dorks." Yes, it's true.

Anyways, Johnny arrived in the most exciting (or, ya know, not) place on earth right as I was getting off work and I was SO excited! We went out to dinner at Applebees (mmmm) and then came home to look up something random online...which led to a discussion of how we wanted to go hot tubbing...which then turned into a search for hotel room prices...which quickly led to him buying one. Basically, if you haven't caught on, we're really random and spontaneous..and awesome.

Tuesday I skipped my classes to show Johnny around campus and get him hooked on Cary Judd (see previous post if you are still unaware of who that glorious man is). The following are pretty typical Brianne and Johnny.

We had a blast and made some more memories (not to mention inside jokes) that I'm sure we'll laugh about for a long time to come. It was a quick trip but totally worth it! Love you Johnny!