Merry Christmas!

 21 December - 27 December 2020

Monday: I awoke at 5:45am to go grocery shopping with Grandpa Jim. He was picking up dessert for the evening, and I wanted to pick out something I would be able to eat. We had David Claridge and his three oldest kids, plus Aunt Symantha, over for dinner. We had homemade pizzas (yum yum) and dessert (also yum yum). But my tummy was about ready to explode after that! I spent the evening working on writing the book for Lucy.

Tuesday: I finished watching exams and grading papers and making sure things were good to go with submitting grades.

Wednesday: I called my professor to walk him through how to submit the grades (since I didn't have access to do it). I also spent quality time with Lucy... playing videogames. Haha, so maybe not so quality.

Thursday: Valerie came up with a Christmas Eve presentation. It was really good. We all gathered around and watched a cartoon video about Christ's birth and discussed the nativity. Then we went around and all said what we loved about each family member. It felt so good to hear what Valerie and Dad and Aaron loved about me since I don't get to hear it often. Of course, it's always good to hear what my mommy loves about me. It was also really good to reflect and say what I loved about each member of my family. Afterwards, we decorated a gingerbread house and a gingerbread chicken coup! Our neighbor Lana gave it to us. It was so cute! I spent the night so I'd already be in the main house when we woke up for Christmas.

Friday: Merry Christmas! We watched the nativity video that the Church put out seven years ago and then opened presents. We had a great year! We are all old enough to get each other good gifts (especially Aaron--he got us expensive gifts!). Mom received some surprising presents that she was really happy about. Aaron loved his mini tripod I got him, and Valerie needed a new charger and was pleasantly surprised I got her a wireless one (since I didn't even know she needed a new charger). Christmas lunch was SO delicious! Yum yum yum. Later that afternoon/evening, we went over to grandma and grandpa's house to visit with family and play games. I officially moved in to the house since Grandpa Jim is kicking me out of his guest bedroom.

Saturday: I had to clean up the room I was staying in because Grandpa Jim's sister Helen is coming for all of next week, so I was booted out. Symantha came over to visit and play games with us. We went on a walk down the street, and mom found a DQ gift card in the road. We were debating if she should throw it away, but she ended up keeping it. Then later that day, she checked how much was on it, and it had over $19 on it! She was so excited about that.

Sunday: Aaron spoke in the singles ward today. He did a wonderful job. Andrew came to listen, and Cody and Collin were also there, so we all sat on the same row. It was fun to sit by so much family (me, Val, Sean, and our three cousins). Val and I visited with Helen for a bit when we got home from church, and then we all had dinner over at our house. Mom was sad about how dinner turned out, but everyone liked it! Also, two people left comments on different videos on my YouTube channel, asking gospel questions. It felt good to ponder and answer their questions about the Book of Mormon and why we had to go through the veil and forget our premortal life. I'm grateful for the missionary opportunities that have come because of my Missionary Approach YouTube channel.

Much love,

Emily Burnham

Finally Finished Finals!

14 December - 20 December 2020

Monday: I worked hard and finished my USU essay and completed my application. I hope it is submitted (I didn't see a "submit" button, but it said it was complete, so... oh well). 

On Tuesday, I studied pretty much all day for Abnormal Psychology and then took my exam that afternoon. I did better than I thought I would! On Wednesday, I studied all day for Positive Psychology and Basic Mediation, but I didn't feel ready to take either, so I just studied.

Thursday: In the morning, I took both of my exams and finished them up by around noon. Then I felt so free! I was officially done with finals! But then I remembered all the papers I still need to grade for work, and spent a couple hours doing that. That evening, I went with Lucy to her voice lesson to practice the song we would sing on Sunday, The First Noel. Valerie had planned a bonfire that evening, so when we got home, we joined in for some games, but I left early because I was worn out (and didn't like the game we were playing).

Friday: I spent a lot of the day grading papers for APA errors (which I don't even get paid for, but it's fine. At least it's over.) That evening, I made the grampster-hamster dinner, and he was so happy about it! Then Heidi and Doug came over with Andrew and Zeb. We played Skull King with them and had a great time. Heidi played the song we would be singing on Sunday at church to help us practice, but she was kind of making Lucy and me stressed with all her comments about us not doing it right and the accompanist not having enough time and blah blah blah, but at least Lucy and I got better at harmonizing together!

Saturday: In the morning, I had heart-burn (acid reflux) so that was not fun. I got lectures about eating healthier (I promise I really do eat better when I'm living on my own AND I'm not exposed to so much cross-contamination. Plus, you know, it's the holiday season with lots of treats and goodies... But yeah, no more. I need to watch what I eat and make sure I take good care of this body of mine. Lucy, Mom, and Val went with me to Sweeties Candy shop by Alma School. We picked up a scorpion sucker for my friend Braeden to try (he said he would eat it if I gave it to him). We had a fun time looking around the shop. Then we stopped by Ross afterwards because Lucy wanted to get a new outfit to wear for singing tomorrow in church. We went and didn't find anything. I did find this adorable winter jacket that I really wanted, but it was a size too small. We left and went home. A couple hours later, I took Lucy to a Ross that was further away to look for something, and that Ross had the same winter jacket in my size! Only it was more pricey than I thought... but I got it. It will hopefully last me many years! Also, Lucy found a dress that she really liked, only it needed a cardigan because it didn't have sleeves. Ross didn't have anything, so we went all the way to Walmart and found something. Lucy was so happy, and she looked super cute in it! Soon after getting back home, we left to go to voice lessons with Lucy's teacher and learned that everything Heidi told us was pretty much wrong and that we could do it our own way. Sarah recorded us and sent it to Emily Sanchez (our pianist) and said we would be great, that she would be there to hear us and that she would pray for us.

Sunday: Lucy and I sang in sacrament meeting today. Lucy was SO nervous that I couldn't even be nervous. She was nervous enough for the both of us. Her voice cracked a bit at the beginning, and she was so self-conscious about that, but I held her hand and reassured her with smiles and nods and hand-squeezes. After that, we finished strong, no mistakes! Everyone seemed very touched and said they loved the show of support and love between us. This afternoon, I worked a bit on the book I'm writing for Lucy as a Christmas present. Now I have five days left to finish a novel! Yikes! I don't have any other Christmas gift ready to give her, and she is definitely expecting a book, so I just have to finish it! Even if it has a crappy ending or gets cut short (then I can finish it for reals later) but I need to have some sort of ending!

Much love,

Emily Burnham

Family Photos

 7 December - 13 December 2020

Monday: I worked on homework up until 10pm! I had a lot of things due before midnight that took forever.

Tuesday: I attended an extra credit review in the evening for my Positive Psychology class.

Wednesday: I enjoy going on unicycle rides with Lucy, Sean, and even dad! We ride down the street and around the office buildings. I have gotten so so so much better at riding on them!

Thursday: Last day of classes! My 8am class ended super early, which was so nice! After my last class ended at 7:30pm, I rode one of the electric unicycles to the church building down the street for the stake Relief Society event. I got to help decorate a ginger bread house with some girls in the ward. Our house turned out rather... colorful!

Friday: I helped Lucy with her homework, and she got mad at me for thinking of a clever last sentence since she hadn't come up with it. I don't know what to do with that little Goomba. She gets mad if I don't help her, and apparently she gets mad when I do. I had a Zoom chat with Braeden in the evening, and guess who was peering through the glass sliding door at the back of Grandpa Jim's house, trying to spy in on our conversation? Yeah, you probably guessed correctly... my mom! She then snuck inside to say hi. Good thing Braeden is super personable and was chill about it. My mom really likes him. I really enjoyed talking with him and felt energized afterward.

Saturday: I went and took family pictures for the Burgess family, and I did well! Especially considering that I didn't know they were bringing their two crazy dogs along! I made sure to go to the location early to scope out some spots, and when the family arrived, we took pictures for just over an hour, so the timing was good. I think they had an enjoyable time. It definitely wore me out, though. I came home so tired. I sat on my dad's massage chair and relaxed for 25 minutes. That evening, mom and dad had over all of the Burnham siblings and grandpa and grandma. All of us kids were kicked out (except Val, who ran the games). We ate dinner in Grandpa Jim's kitchen, and then Lucy and I had a night of activities planned. We made peanut butter balls, decorated a ginger bread house, put on face masks, and watched a new movie that had come out on Disney Plus. Honestly, it was kind of exhausting, but enjoyable too. The funny part was when Lucy's face mask didn't want to come off, so she left chunks of it to her face when it wouldn't come off. Later that night, mom, dad, and Val came over to report that everyone had finally left and the party had been a success!

Sunday: I was so exhausted from the weekend that I slept in until 8:30am! I know that may not sound late for most people, but the family ward started at 8:30, so I made sure to attend the singles ward. I was glad I did because I got to see some friends that were down from Provo! I hitched a ride home with one of them because Aaron's car was way too cramped. That afternoon, we all got ready for family photos. I helped Lucy with her makeup. Photographing with a tripod is the worst. It's so much harder to guide your family and get all the shots you want when using a self-timer. Boo! But at least we got a couple of good shots, plus some good head shots.

Much love,

Emily Burnham

Zoo Lights

 30 November - 6 December 2020

Monday: I had a lot of homework to do that didn't get done on Saturday. As the end of the semester is approaching, lots of deadlines are creeping up! Including graduate school deadlines... yikes. I finally finished around 7 or 8pm with a quiz. Having to do school when I'm home and feel like I should be on vacation is the worst! Haha, but I'll persevere :)

Tuesday: Mom listened in to my 8am class and was crying! We were discussing self-compassion, which is such a needed thing in our society today. In a gap between classes, we went shopping. Then I had class the rest of the day.

Wednesday: In the afternoon, I went with my mom to the store because she needed to pick up a couple of items. I told her not to forget to get the chips. Then I decided to go inside with her instead of waiting in the car so that I could make sure she remembered to grab them. You've probably already guessed by now, but yes, we walked out of the store, loaded up the car, started driving home, and then remembered that we forgot to get chips! Lucy came over in the evening to have a "homework jam session," which was good for me because otherwise I wouldn't have had the motivation to continue working on homework. 

Thursday: What a long day! I had classes alllll day. The best part was the guest speaker in my morning class. My mom didn't seem to be listening at first, but then she heard the speaker and came to see. He talked about his experiences 

Friday: Cousin Kayla came over to help me find a good color for my hair. She brought her two kiddos over to play. I didn't realize how long it would take as we tried different colors and combinations and then had to wait 30 minutes in between. But finally... six hours later... we ended up with a color that was a little darker than I preferred, but closer to what I wanted. Kayla said it should fade out from washes in a week and so hopefully it will be the color I want. That evening, I had to work on a couple of things that needed to be done before midnight (like an essay) so that finished up my evening.

Saturday: In the morning, I attended a Stake Relief Society activity where we were served breakfast and did yoga. I enjoyed that we were right across from the Gilbert temple! I spent the majority of the day doing homework and listening to online class lectures. That evening, I went with mom and my two sisters to go and see the Zoo Lights in Phoenix with all the young women in the ward. It was enjoyable to spend time with my family and see all the pretty lights. Afterwards, we stopped by Inn and Out for a quick dinner since we didn't eat that whole time. I am grateful for my mom and sisters.

Sunday: I went to the family ward with my parents at 8:30am, and it was good to be able to see old acquaintances and family friends. I bore my testimony during the meeting about hope and faith, and I got some compliments. I also gave dad his late birthday gift (a bag of brussels sprouts with a card), which he did not find amusing... unfortunately. That evening, we made smoked pizzas for dinner to break our fast. They were amazing as always. Then we watched the Christmas devotional with the sister missionaries and Amir. I am grateful for my Savior Jesus Christ because He helps me overcome my negative thoughts and weaknesses. I started this morning feeling inadequate and unworthy. I recognized those thoughts, vocalized them, realized how false they were, and was able to move past it. I am grateful for unconditional love and for infinite chances and opportunities. Lucy also took me on a ranger ride and pulled over just so she could climb a tree.

Much love,

Emily Burnham

Turkey Walk

 23 November - 29 November 2020

Happy Thanksgiving week!

The first half of the week was super nice because most of my roommates had already left for home, and it's always nice to have the house to yourself every once in a while so that you can burst into song whenever you want. Plus, you have less distractions as you do homework ;).

On Monday and Tuesday, I spent a lot of time working on homework assignments, since I didn't have classes on those days. I also ran by the store to pick up something and decided to get some dark chocolate as motivation to do all the work I needed to! I also watched this super sad but good movie on Disney+ called "Clouds" that was based off of a true story.

Wednesday: I had a date with Braeden in the evening. We made dinner at his place, then talked and joked. He showed me that he was working on making a hammock out of plastic shopping backs, and then we tried lassoing with it. I was super bad, but somehow caught the nozzle of the spray bottle by knocking it over.

Thursday: A guy in the ward dropped me off at the airport, and to my surprise, my Aunt Symantha (with Lucy) picked me up! The flight went well (I didn't get motion sick and my ears didn't hurt!!) and I got to sit by a new mom who had her three month baby on her lap, and he was a cutie! Apparently, my family was starving! So by the time we arrived home around 1pm, everyone was anxious to eat! We had smoked turkey and of course a ham. Our neighbor, Amir, who was recently baptized and is taking lessons in our home, also came for Thanksgiving lunch. It was good to be back among my family, especially my two sisters. Look how cute we three peas in a pod are:

After eating the meal, mom left to deliver food to the old lady she ministers to and us three girls helped clean up. By the time we were done and everyone got back, I announced that we were all going on a Thanksgiving walk! My aunt said that was a great idea--so we could walk off the turkey and make room for the pie! Even dad and Sean came with us, and it was really fun. I was also really excited for dessert because Valerie had made me a gluten-free pumpkin cake! It was so good. Then we played games that afternoon (Skull Kings, which I did pretty good at, and Cover Your Assets, which mom dominated at). It was a wonderful day and I am glad I got to spend it among loved ones.

Friday: I worked a bit, went on a walk with Lucy and mom, and then worked on some homework. Whitney came over that evening with Kethura, and I showed them around the property and houses and let them try a bit of the smoked turkey. It was so fun to have Whitney come to my house! They were surprised by how short Sean made me look when he was standing next to me. After they left, I was working on homework again, when a distinct impression came to me to go and check on my mom. I went looking for her, but couldn't find her. I found dad locking up the chickens and asked him, and he said he locked up the workshop and hadn't seen her, but we went to the work shop and he unlocked it and turned on the lights, and we found her laying inside, crying. I was able to comfort her and get her the help she needed. It was a moment when I really felt that God needed me down here for this specific time to be a blessing to my family members. And of course, to be blessed by them, but it's good for me to feel like I am giving back as well. Later that evening, I watched Maleficent with Sean. He was so considerate in picking out a movie that I wanted to watch so we could watch it together. He even made us all popcorn.

Saturday: Mom and my two sisters left to go to Symantha's house in Florence. I stayed behind because I hadn't realized just how much homework I had due on Monday! It was good for the house to be empty most of the day so I could get a lot of work done. I finished up the rough draft for my essay! That was good. In the evening, the sister missionaries called and said they were short on time and wanted to know if we could feed them something real quick. We got together to-go containers filled with all of our Thanksgiving leftovers. They were very grateful.

Sunday: I attended the YSA ward with Valerie, Sean, and Aaron. It was fun to have all four of us in a YSA ward together. I also attended my Provo Zoom Sunday meeting, and then had a meeting for my calling afterwards. It was super fun to see a game I had made and prepared be put into action and work out so well! Aaron also took some pictures of me on his new fancy phone, and I also showed mom some features on our phone so she would like it better. That evening, Lucy, mom, and I went to grandma and grandpa's house. I got to see Kayla and her new baby, Jaylee. Lucy really wanted to play Skull Kings... she kept bugging us until we agreed. She even interrupted a video chat I was on with Braeden to let me know I needed to play with her! Haha, she is a keeper.

Much love,

Emily Burnham

Little Ms. Turkey Head

 16 November - 22 November 2020

Wow, I must apologize in advance for the lack of pictures lately. If anything, take it as a good sign! I'm so busy enjoying life that I forget to take a picture. I love being able to look back on photos of important moments, but I also believe that sometimes the current joy of an experience can be overshadowed by the "need" to take the "perfect" picture of the moment to post or share with others. Anyways, I'll stop preachin' and get on to tellin' y'all 'bout my week!

Monday: I somehow completely spaced doing my office hours as a TA, but on the bright side, at least I got extra homework done instead! Also, FHE over Zoom isn't all that bad. We just play a game together (and apparently I'm good target practice because everyone kept killing me in the game!!!!)

Tuesday: I held a workshop with the class I TA for, and it went well! I had lots of participation and the timing was perfect. I have realized that when I am in a position of "power" (like being in charge of students), I am more more prone to laugh at myself/joke because I want the students to feel that I am approachable and just like them. However, this often comes off as me not being confident, even though I am.

Wednesday: So, I texted Bradaen and asked if he'd like to go out in person sometime when the mandate was over, and he said yes! (Later in the week he texted to ask about my week and then suggested we make food together, so I'm excited about that.)

Thursday: As much as I haven't been a fan of online class, I was so happy that today was the last day of in-person classes because 1) I don't like wearing masks in class and 2) it means I'm that much closer to winter break!!!

Can you tell how excited I am for Thanksgiving?

Friday: I finished my graduate application to BYU's MFT program. While I did not do as well as I'd hoped on the video recording part of the application, I did the best that I could, and I am at peace with wherever I end up going to school. I also made some banana bread to celebrate finishing my BYU graduate application.

Saturday: I listened to the prophet's message on gratitude and am so grateful to have him as a guide. Already, social media has become so positive and uplifting with everyone posting what they are grateful for! I studied for and took a midterm (after a little too much procrastination...) and then went shopping to buy enough food to last me until I go home next week. Plus, I wanted a treat for making it through the week. (Can you see by now that I thrive off of treating myself for doing hard things?? haha).

Sunday: I had a great and busy day! Socializing after church is so valuable now that we don't have any other in-person activities in the ward. Fortunately it hasn't been too cold this week! I met with another Emily in the ward (there are about six, haha) and she taught me some really cool tricks for doing family history! Seeing how much she had accomplished and her passion was inspiring! I could tell she knew some of her ancestors very well. I am excited to go forth and develop that passion within my self. I then met with my Stake President for an endorsement for grad school, and as I told him about my Family History meeting just prior to meeting with him, he said, "Start with heart, and then a chart." It's important to come to know and love your ancestors with your heart before getting swept up into the research and data. Then I attended Relief Society via Zoom. I drove to Lehi to drop off an old camera I had to a person who wanted to purchase it for his daughter, but lived super far away. Then I went over to Whitney and Lacee's apartment to go on a walk, and it turned out to be very good because one of my friends opened up about her struggles and really needed to talk about it. We were able to listen and offer support and love. Then I stayed over at their apartment, eating chips and talking. We also shared insights from our Come, Follow Me study. Afterwards, we all knelt down together in prayer, and I was asked to offer it. There is so much power and sacredness when you kneel and pray with a sincere heart among loved ones.

Look! I found my match!! ;)

Much love,

Emily Burnham

Do Not Procrastinate Your Happiness

9 November - 15 November 2020

Hey family! And friends if any of y'all are reading this!

On Monday morning, I got a text from a guy who used to be in the ward that said he thought I should go on a date with his Elder's Quorum President. I said I was willing to give it a go, and the guy (Braeden) texted me. We set up a Zoom date for Wednesday due to the governor's new mandate to stay in your home. I was actually really looking forward to the date!

I have tons and tons of readings and homework to do, and so I have been working on homework right up until my bedtime! But such is the life of a full-time college student when the end of the semester is drawing near. Lots of papers and finals and work to do.

The date Wednesday night was fun! I may have talked a lot... but there's a reason that my nickname was "Emily-talks-a-lot" when I was a kiddo... haha. But Braeden is super cool and it was fun getting to know him better.

I have sooo much grading to do!!! AHHHH!!! But I'm trying to remain calm. I have loads to do in the next week and a half before I go home for Thanksgiving, but all I can do is focus on one day at a time. I'll do my very best each day and try hard not to waste time worrying about not getting everything done. Anyways, I truly believe you can be happy despite crazy circumstances, and I am having the opportunity to live through that right now. It's not easy, but with a determination to keep my mind focused on the present moment, it has helped me a lot. Whitney came over Thursday evening because I made her dinner (and dinner for my roommate Mira) and she really liked it!

Friday morning, Whitney came over around 9am and we worked on homework all morning. We also went on a "speed-walk" together. I had a work training meeting, and then later that afternoon I visited the doctor at the health center, did more homework, and then went shopping.

Saturday was a pretty great day! In the morning, I went over to my friend Becca's house to make hummus. After a while we got to talking about worst date stories, which is always fun. Also, they had received four books about marriage for their wedding that they said they weren't going to read, so they offered them to me (since I'm going into marriage and family therapy). I'm actually super pumped about that! I can already see the bookshelves in my future office lined with them ;). That afternoon, I went with some friends to the Shops at Riverwood. I got some nice lotion that was half-off, because it's that time of the year when my hands start drying out and bleeding... fun times. We also went to this shop where the owner travels around and buys expensive things from auctions from church history or from movie sets! We got to see a bible from the 1400s and props from different movies such as Harry Potter, Narnia, and Lord of the Rings. That evening, I had a date with a guy I met on mutual. We met at a Mexican Restaurant in Springville called Joe Bandido's. I'll be honest; I was definitely looking forward to eating Mexican food more than the actual date, but I was pleasantly surprised. I had a nice time with Nate.

Sunday was great! After church, a friend in the ward talked with me for a bit about books (he'd finished one that I'd recommended to him and had really liked it). Then after we parted ways, two girls gave me looks and one even texted me to let me know that they think I should go on a date with him. Mira made me some hot chocolate when we got home from church. I met with my ministering sisters over Zoom and one of them invited me to stay for their Come, Follow Me study group if I wanted. I decided to, and I'm really glad I did! There were some really cool girls on there that had great questions and we had a wonderful discussion. Plus, it always makes you feel good when they like your comments ;). One cool thing I thought of was that the best way to prepare yourself now for future challenges is to be your best self in the "now." Just as your current level of happiness on the future correlates with your present measure of happiness, so does your preparation. If you are doing your best every day to draw closer to God, to have meaningful prayers and studies, then when the time comes in the future, you will have built up that pattern and habit, and you'll be prepared. One quote I liked that someone said was, "Just as we should not procrastinate the day of our repentance, we should not procrastinate the day of our happiness." Then someone said that "repentance is happiness." Amen to that!

Much love,

Emily Burnham

P.S. I didn't really take any pictures this week... sorry about that... but I did take one photo of me out in the cold with a cute headband on that my sister got me for Christmas one year. So I guess I can upload that photo, though I low-key kinda look bald... ;)

Uncomplicating Dating Seminar

 2 November - 8 November 2020

Can I just say that I have learned my lesson and will never swipe up on every single guy on mutual ever again. I've had some messages that made me uncomfortable or were very cringe-worthy. But I guess on a good note, I had a lot of dates this past week than the rest of the year combined! On Tuesday afternoon, I went out with Cody to get tacos. That evening, Seth and I walked along the Provo river and talked (just going to add some commentary here... please don't bring up the fact that you're the only person not married in your family and your long history of ex-girlfriends and mutual drama on the first date). Wednesday afternoon I went with Dallen to get hot chocolate, and on Friday I got fries with Matthew.

Fortunately, I was able to watch this dating seminar that my sister told me about Thursday night, which was called "Never Have an Awkward First Date Again," and that helped give me some good tips to use on the Friday date. Dating is tough, but it doesn't have to be a game (as so many people call it). Be honest with your thoughts and intentions. Be straightforward. Stop experiencing guilt for things that are out of your control (such as not liking a person back and having to reject them. You can't help how you feel!)

Saturday night was fun because I got to attend a virtual mission reunion. It was good to catch up with some people, like Ali Palmer. It's always good to see the happy faces of my mission president and his wife. That evening, I went over to Whitney's house for a small game night, and we played Skull Kings. It was a pretty fun game, but I was so tired that I started to get a bit loopy... haha... making really bad puns, humming to myself... who even knows.

Overall, it has been a great week. I've been able to get a lot done, and I am loving my new daily routine. I wake up, do a 20 minute meditation, read my scriptures, and then get ready for the day. Around 11:30am, I go on a brisk walk for half an hour to get my heart rate up. Then I get in bed before 10:30pm. I have felt more energized and have been able to do more. I also officially started my application for graduate school at BYU! Also, it's been super cold this weekend! Winter is coming, but at least I get to be home in Arizona for December :)

On Sunday, I spend a couple of hours creating "Family History Bingo" cards for my calling. I am hoping to get people excited to research about their ancestors by playing this version of Bingo and having a prize for the winner! It was fun to make :) I know the Lord gives us promptings, and I know we can have the Spirit more fully with us as we work to magnify our callings. Focus on strengthening your community instead of worrying over the nation. Pray for the president, pray for the nation, but go out and do good in your own neighborhood.

Much love,

Emily Burnham

A Harry Halloween

 26 October - 1 November 2020

So, on Tuesday, I did something pretty stupid (but I didn't realize that until hindsight). I decided to get a mutual (again...) and to swipe up on all of the boys. Then I could sort through the ones that actually messaged me. But little did I know that in less than two days, I would have 102 boys messaging me! And most of them were definitely not my type. But on the bright side, I have a couple dates lined up for next week!

School has been difficult because it's mostly online. I am losing my patience with this whole "world pandemic" thing because of all the missed opportunities that have resulted and continue to result. I'm just trying to get through to Thanksgiving. It'll be nice to go home and get fattened up by my mom's regular (and delicious) meals. You'd think I'd know how to feed myself regularly after 22 years of life, but such is college life.

Friday afternoon, I went over to a friend's house to help her with her makeup and hair. Then I took her on a photoshoot at Bicentennial Park, which was very beautiful! That evening, I met up with a guy on mutual at that same park and we walked and talked. It was good to get to know someone else and put myself in their shoes. When I got home, I made cookies. I was meeting up with friends to have a bachelorette party for a girl who had previously been in the ward. I needed something to do to keep me awake while I was waiting for 10:30 to roll around. We went to Heart and Seoul Karaoke on Center Street, and it was pretty fun!

On Saturday, I went over to help Whitney decorate her apartment for a bit. We had a Harry Potter themed Halloween party in the evening. Just that morning, I'd searched for costume ideas and decided to dress up as Bellatrix Lestrange. I must say, it was quite fun to get ready. I twisted, curled, and sprayed the crap out of my hair. Everyone could tell who I was trying to be, so that was a success! The decorations were super cool, and we started with a "feast" in the "Great Hall" followed by some dancing and games. We even had a Harry Potter meme-making contest. I had a lot of fun.

Sunday was very good. I felt the Spirit during my scripture study and during the testimonies that were born at sacrament meeting. I am far from perfect, and I am so amazed at Heavenly Father's love and patience with me. After church, I got to socialize with some others in the ward for a bit. I went home and took a fat nap. Then I drove to Alpine to have dinner with the Mask family! The food was absolutely delicious, and it was so natural to talk with them and feel the spirit in their home. Their house was absolutely gorgeous, and I could feel the love and Spirit in their home. I'm grateful for the people that God places in our lives to strengthen us. My roommate had this beautiful crown, and it reminded me that we are all royalty, sons and daughters of a Heavenly King.

I have made a lot of mistakes--something that I am becoming increasingly aware of--but I still have hope through Jesus Christ that all can be made right. I know that peace can come from the Savior. Just as He spoke "Peace, be still" to the raging water, he can speak those same words to calm our raging hearts. I have felt that. I know that Jesus Christ lives. He is real. He is coming sometime soon. And I can't wait to see His face and witness firsthand his love and power.

Much love,

Emily Burnham

Criminal in Class

19 October - 25 October 2020

Hey family! This last week was a bit much for me, but the good news is that I'm still alive to write about it. Haha, no, it wasn't all that bad; however, I was very overwhelmed and anxious throughout the week. I had a lot of big things ahead of me--a midterm, a research paper. Anyways, so most of my Monday was spent working on the introduction to a paper that was due by that evening, plus a billion other things. I was so stressed about getting everything done that on Sunday, I went to bed early and then got up early. I began working on homework at 7am and continued working on things up until 9pm. But don't worry, I did take about 2 hours of a break within that time frame to eat. To reward myself for surviving through the day, I too myself out to get Thai food for dinner. I went to bed before 10pm because I was so drained.

Well, then Tuesday morning came and I felt soooo sluggish. When you push yourself hard (mentally, in this case), your body needs a break. I wearily attended all four of my classes and tried to do what I could.

Wednesday was a bit better. Instead of going into the Harmen building to work, I stayed home because I needed to film myself for a work video about connecting with students as a TA during social distancing. I also met with students to talk over the study guide for the class I TA over. They were so appreciative! Well, since I had my midterm in class the next day, I devoted some time that evening to studying (even though I really didn't want to...). 

Thursdays are crazy busy. Fortunately today, my meditation class was cancelled because our teacher had to do something in Salt Lake. I took some of that time to take a nap and recover from the stress I'd been feeling. Also, to get myself through the week, I promised myself I could go out to dinner at the end of the week. That evening, I head to my Basic Mediation final, feeling alright about the upcoming final. Well, I guess I should more adequately describe my feelings as "resigned." I keep a big bag of clean masks in my backpack so I don't have to worry about remembering to grab a mask every time I leave the house. Well, I got to the building, reached into my backpack to grab a mask, and realized I'd ran out and hadn't refilled it! There was no way I was going all the way back home to grab a mask, especially since we were taking our final at the beginning of class and I didn't want to be late. So I walked into the building, kind of holding my jacket up to cover my face, and asked some of my classmates if they had an extra mask. They didn't, but one told me it would be fine if I just sat in the very back. So I sat more than 10 feet away from any of my other classmates, all the way in the back, without a mask. It was so nice to attend the 2.5 hour class without having to breathe through or talk through a mask, but as I looked around at everyone else in the class and saw that no one else was mask-free, I felt like a criminal, breaking the "Law of the Mask." It's so weird that wearing masks has become such a norm that I feel self-conscious without one because I worry I will get in trouble.

I spent the majority of Friday working on my Abnormal Psychology research paper that was due the next evening. It had been stressing me out, but I was able to get a lot done on it. On Saturday, I again worked on finishing up my essay and finished around one. I also had the opportunity to spend some time teaching my sister about Conflict Resolution skills (for one of my homework assignments). Then I asked Whitney if I could come over and teach her for about 20 minutes, so I got to do that. Then we went on campus to do homework together. At about 5pm, I left to go home so I could treat myself to dinner. I had been craving an In-and-Out burger all week (with Chick-fil-a fries), and when I arrived there, the line was so so so long! But I decided to stick it out to satisfy my craving. I waited in line for around 45 minutes. Was it worth it for one little burger? Who knows, but at least that craving is gone now. Then I drove to get the fries, and the line at Chick-fil-a was SO much shorter. By the time I got home, it was already 7:40pm. Whitney came over after 8pm so that we could watch "The Social Dilemma" and make the "BOO" banners that my mom sent to me. The movie was very dramatized, so it was hard to take some of it seriously, but it was fun making the banners. Very relaxing. Plus my new hot glue gun is pretty awesome. Also this week, my mom sent me a paper-slicer machine, without even telling me she was going to, which was such a lovely surprise. I have a great mama.

I woke up to snow on Sunday! First snow of the semester. I layered up to go to church and wore my boots. We were going to make it just on time to church, but as we were passing through the parking lot to go inside, there were three guys standing at the back of a car and saying, "If one person carries seven and the other two carry six, we can make it." I look back to see one of the guys piling a bunch of boxes of chili onto the other guy's open arms, going up to his chin. I realized what they meant, so I called out and asked if they needed help. I think they were surprised by my offer, but me and my roommate Mira headed towards them. We helped carry them and they were grateful. We got to church just before the opening song began, but I think the Lord blessed us with that opportunity to serve and didn't mind us being a few minutes late. It made my day so much happier. Also, for the first time, all my roommates attended the Zoom RS meeting (though some were late and/or had to leave early), but it felt very united, so I liked that.

Much love,

Emily Burnham

It's Fall, Y'all

 October 12 - October 18 2020

Monday: Nothing too crazy. I held office hours, spent a while grading papers, and doing homework. One blessing has been telling myself just to try. When I feel the pressure to have a "perfect" scripture study, I just tell myself that I am going to try to read them. I received so many insights this week about my calling and desires. 

Tuesday: It was nice to finally be able to attend classes again in person! I am not enjoying my meditation class as much anymore, but I am determined to try and enjoy it still. Although, I will admit that twice I've listened to an audio book with my blue tooth ear buds instead of meditating. I know, I need to repent. That evening, I stopped by the family that I used to babysit for to drop off the gift I made them months ago: block letters that said "Give Thanks." It was so good to get to see them again. Little Jack talks so much now! And he really wanted me to play with him down in the basement. It was good to know I am missed and loved by that cute kiddo. Also, since they were leaving out of town the next day for a couple of weeks, they gave me a bunch of food that would have perished--so that was super nice!

Wednesday: I went to the Health Center to check up with the doctor on how everything is going with my medication, and I finally feel like he has warmed up to me! And the nurse. They were so kind, concerned, and talkative! The nurse also slipped a flu shot into the visit, haha. Got love unexpected flu shots. But at least I got a Dum Dum Sucker on my way out :). I am really enjoying the beautiful leaves that are changing colors. There are trees with three to five different colored leaves, all in different stages of turning from green to brown. Fall truly is beautiful, though I think I still like Spring the best.

Thursday: Today was exceedingly long. Classes started and 8am and went on throughout the day, ending at 7:30pm. I should treat myself every Thursday night. During my 5 to 7:30pm class, I got to play the role of the mediator, where I help lead a Mediation between two arguing parties. They were fake scenarios, and two of my classmates had to act out their part. I thought I did pretty good, especially considering that we haven't gone over how to actually negotiate with two parties (which is pretty essential to a mediation...haha).

Friday: I had sooo much homework to do. I went to the HCEB to hold a test review for Behavioral Neurobiology. I then had the "Strengths Finder" meeting, where we met up and talked about our top five strengths. My number one strength was "Achiever," which means that I keep my word, I work hard until the job is done, and I do my best at it. One cool thing that I learned about myself from the activity was that I scored pretty high on the "Input" category, which basically means you are good at gathering information and sources, synthesizing them together, and then using that knowledge to help other people. I had no idea that this had a name! But it definitely fits me, and it's why I do so well with studying the gospel. I soak in as many insights as I can so I can help other people later. Same with my major. After that meeting, I had the privilege of chatting with one of my supervisors, Shelly. I got to show her different personal projects that I am working on. That afternoon/evening, I went with Whitney to the library to do some more homework. I also got a lot of chocolates from work to give to my friends.

Saturday: I took a test today. I went over to the HCEB. Fortunately the doors were unlocked! I studied and then took my exam. I worked on some other things for a bit before going home due to hunger. Then, I tried doing some more work. Around 3pm, I went with some friends to a pumpkin patch in Orem and we got some goofy photos! I was really appreciative of one of the guy friends in our group who was very kind to me.

Sunday: So, I wanted to look really cute today, but the time just flew by! I thought church was going back to starting at 10:30am, so Mira and I ran to church, just a couple minutes late. We were so confused because no one looked familiar. We peeked at the Bishopbric and they were not our Bishipbric! We realized church must still be at 11am, so we gratefully went home to eat breakfast, since we didn't have time to do so before. Haha, we were so embarrassed. But, I did look super cute today, so that's a bonus at least ;). I also got to chat with my mom over Facebook Messenger, and she stumbled across the effects and randomly turned herself into a dragon, followed by a bunch of other stuff!

Well, it's been a bit lonely lately, but I'm hanging in there, and I am so grateful for a Savior and Heavenly Father who are by my side. I loved reading this week in the scriptures about how Christ is our husband as church members because I remembered the role of a husband as defined in the Family Proclamation and within marriage classes I have taken, and it is to protect, preside, be there as an equal partner. Someone you can always confide in and love, and be loved in return. I've needed that closer connection to my Savior this week.

Much love,

Emily Burnham

Full of Love

 5 October - 11 October 2020

Monday: Even though I felt sick, I realized I didn't have access to the reading I needed to do before midnight, so I headed to campus to do the reading. I stayed home for the rest of the day, finishing up school work. I had a work meeting at 4:30pm, and afterwards, I stayed on to chat with my fellow workers and listen in to the upcoming news of how BYU Campus will respond to covid. I mentioned how both of my roommates had covid, so I probably had it too. They asked if I had any symptoms, so I told them about having headaches and no appetite. I hadn't eaten much throughout the day, and everything I thought about eating made me feel like throwing up. Then everyone was so concerned that it made me feel loved! Shelly, one of my bosses, asked me what sounded good. I said maybe some crackers and broth. She went and bought me a smoothie and then crackers and soup that evening. My other supervisor, Erin, told me she was buying me lunch the next day. They all insisted that I couldn't pay them back. It was so sweet and made me so happy and grateful. I chose to ignore the feelings of guilt or of being a burden because everyone was so happy to serve me. Instead, I chose to focus on gratitude and love for having wonderful people in my life to help me.

Tuesday: I stayed home for classes and decided to go and get tested for Covid19 that morning during a gap in classes I had so I could know if I officially had Covid19 or not. It was not as pleasant as the last test I got. These people stuck the q-tip much higher up in my nostrils for seconds longer (and when you have something stuck up your nose to your eyeballs, seconds can feel like hours).

Wednesday: I worked from home for three hours in the morning. I had class and then homework. That evening, I participated in a social/service activity Zoom meeting. The service project they had us do was to write sticky notes and put them up around outside or in our house. Whoever wrote the most in 20 minutes would win a $10 gift card to the BYU Bookstore. Let's just say that was the easiest $10 I ever made ;). Haha, and my roommates sure appreciated the notes on their doors.

Thursday: I stayed home from all of my classes again since I have not yet received my Covid19 results. My last class of the day ended at 7:30pm, and I chatted with my friend Whitney for a bit on the phone. Then, I decided that I was too tired to do any more school work, but I could do something else that was useful. I bought a paper slicing machine, but I didn't like it and requested to return it. I tried to take the handle off the armed-blade, which was how it originally came, and in the process, I accidently grabbed onto the blade with my fist and cut open my pinky pretty bad. I felt like I was going to pass out. My sweet roommate Mattie helped me super glue it, got me some water, and helped me lay down on the couch. After a while, I started feeling a bit better (but my finger was throbbing so I had to cut open the band-aid to relieve the pressure. I'm grateful that it wasn't bad enough to need stitches.

Friday: I finally received my Covid19 results, and I tested negative! Again. So I'm just going to assume that I either had it and recovered before I got tested or I am immune to it. I went down to the library to do school work, and instead worked for over three hours at my TA job. Then I headed down to the creamery because my sister informed me that they were giving away free shirts there! So I got one ;). That afternoon, I finished up my homework that was due, and then I ended the night early because of a pounding headache. Medicine was no help. Even though I had more I could have done, I decided to take it easy, so I relaxed and watched Narnia.

Saturday: I went shopping in the morning. I haven't had much of an appetite this week, and nothing sounded good to eat. I decided that I was going to buy new foods that I didn't normally eat so that way I would actually eat. I stopped by Trader Joe's, Sprouts, and then Walmart. That afternoon, I spent time working on my Abnormal Psychology class, but after a while, I became so unproductive and tired of it, so I instead worked on grading papers. I also took a lengthy walk while listening to an audio book because I needed to get out of the house. The weather has been beautiful. Leaves are changing colors, and the air smells fresh and crisp. That evening, I watched the second Narnia, but wasn't as impressed with it. The amount of killing in it both surprised me and made me feel sick.

Sunday: This morning, I had a sacred moment in my room as I listened to a hymn and sang it. I felt God listening to me and I teared up as I felt connected to Him in a sacred moment. After church, Mattie and I wrote on some sticky notes and attached them to the door of one of the girls we minister to. Then I worked on editing some videos for The Missionary Approach YouTube channel. I had a great insight this week. It's been said so many times in various ways, but this week, I actually felt it. I felt the truth of it from the Spirit and from my Father in Heaven. The fact that I am trying to live righteously is enough. I don't have to gain extraordinary insights from conference and feel the Spirit strong every time I pray or read my scriptures in order to be on good terms with God or with myself. Instead, the fact that I even desire to do those righteous things, and desire to feel the Spirit strongly, is more than other people try, and God is pleased with my efforts. This has helped to relieve a lot of guilt and pressure from myself.

Much love,

Emily Burnham

Return of the Rona

 28 September - 4 October 2020

Well, the most eventful thing that happened this week was that my two roommates tested positive for Covid19. So... back into quarantine I go, with a high chance of catching it too. Oh well, at least then I'd get it over with already. I haven't felt super sick yet, but I have felt more tired and have felt some minor symptoms--the most frequent of which is an annoying headache. Oh yeah, and I have no appetite. 

Since I've been isolated this week, I've taken to go on nature walks by myself outside (staying clear of others) and admiring the beauty around me. I've felt so much happier as I've taken time to appreciate the moment around me and to soak in the details of nature--the water droplets on the grass, the blooming flowers, the veins on leaves, or the height of some of the trees. I even found an acorn! I think it was the first acorn I've ever seen out in nature, still enclosed in its outer protective shell. Apparently they are toxic to humans, but you can de-toxify them and eat them (thanks for the info, Google). I'm adding that to my bucket list: eating an acorn dish.

I've also taken to sitting outside somewhere on campus where I am isolated but have access to campus WiFi. The wifi in the house is awful, especially now that my other roommates are home in quarantine and we are all trying to do classes. I will get kicked out of my Zoom classes, lose connection lots of times, and have the videos constantly freezing. So I found this perfect spot outside, on a hill near the tennis courts, where I can lean back on a rock that is completely flat on its back face. I bring a blanket to sit on. The only inconvenience is that my laptop doesn't hold a charge for longer than an hour and a half (and that's if I'm lucky) so I can't stay outside there for long before it dies.

I have also been working more hours. I have a LOT of grading to do this next week. I ordered a weighted blanket and paper slicer, so I'm looking forward to receiving those two things next week! 

I miss my social life. I miss you guys. Isolation is no fun--and it's not emotionally healthy (I would know; I'm a psych major) :). But conference did bring some comfort and inspiration. So many of the messages stood out to me regarding the pain and trial we must endure, but the joy and revelation that is coupled with it. To close, I want to share one insight I had while studying 3 Nephi 20 this morning. There was a reference in verse 40 about Christ being the publisher of salvation, and it reminded me how He is also referred to as the author and finisher of our faith. An author creates a world and characters. Christ created us and the world. The next step for a book to reach publication is for it to be edited. We are the editors. We recognize our errors and mistakes. We tell God about them as we repent and try to do and be better. At the end of our lives, Christ will take the manuscript of our life, full of the red ink of errors we have circled and tried fixing, and he will turn that into a perfectly published book, free of the errors. I love this analogy because it shows the active role we must take in being better each day, but Jesus Christ can still help us, and it is only because of Him that the errors can be fixed. We don't fix ourselves in this life, but we recognize them and try to be better. He is the one who paid the price for them. It's not a perfect analogy, but it brought new insight to me.

Much love,

Emily Burnham

Attitude of Gratitude

 21 September - 27 September 2020

Howdy y'all! Top of the mornin' to ya. It's actually evening. But I felt like typing that that :)

Okay, so the beginning of the week was pretty boring. Just school, work, and homework. No fun. So I will combine it into one section. But good news. My weekend was pretty chill. Literally ;).

Welp, I tested negative for covid. You're welcome. That was pretty anti-climatic. I spent the morning grading papers and then had a work meeting at noon. I am still feeling a bit sick, but it must be an actual cold since it's not covid. I got to attend my meditation and basic mediation classes in person again this week! I still despise having to wear a mask. I have also been practicing gratitude and have sent letters and texts and messages to lots of people. It truly does make you so much happier to focus on mindfully being grateful. One day this week, I planned on staying home for my 8am class, but then the Wi-Fi was HORRIBLE and I kept getting kicked off my Zoom class. After 15 minutes, I got so fed up and decided to trek to campus to get better Wi-Fi. On the walk there, I was angry and fuming--something I actually haven't felt in a while. I remembered that I am practicing gratitude this week and decided to think of one thing I could be grateful because my Wi-Fi was sucky. I started noticing how beautiful the trees were with the changing leaves and breathed in the fresh morning air. I became calm and grateful for the beautiful surroundings. I sat on a blanket next to a tree and become content and happy and grateful for the opportunity to experience the nature because I was forced out of my home due to crummy Wi-Fi.

Friday: I met with two students this morning from the class I TA for. The first student didn't join the Zoom link, and I was worried he had forgotten, so I turned into a stalk and looked up his info on the BYU website and texted him. He was actually really grateful that I reminded him because he had slept in and forgotten! I met with some girls from my Abnormal Psychology class and we worked on a study guide in preparation for our test next week. I spent the afternoon working and doing homework. That evening, I decided to go to the college night ice skating event, even though it was from 10pm to 12am. I just wanted to meet some other kids my age who like to ice skate! It was super fun (despite falling and bruising my elbow and getting a blister).

Saturday: I slept in pretty late since I got to bed later than normal. I went grocery shopping at Sam's Club and ran into an old mission companion and her husband! They're super cute, but I will admit it's a bit awkward because I don't really know what to talk about with her anymore. I spent the afternoon working on a PowerPoint for Tuesday. I get to teach the class I TA for! It's all about APA 7th edition formatting. Yup, super interesting, I know... So that's why I had to make it super interesting and fun! It's Star Wars themed. I also bought candy to throw out to student's who answer questions. I was super groggy all day. That evening, I went over to Whitney's apartment. We took a trip to buy ice cream at the store and then watched Ever After. Again, I got home super late... well, like midnight. That's two nights in a row! Yikes. But it was fun to hang with friends.

Sunday: I got a new calling this morning! Bishop video called me and asked me to be a Family History Consultant. While I didn't expect to receive that calling, it came as no surprise because it felt like Heavenly Father was giving me an opportunity to get better at consistently doing my own family history. I got sustained in church! I went to give one of my ministering sisters a treat (aka laughy taffies) and I talked with her and her roommates for a hot minute. We all talked about going ice skating together sometime! I travelled back to the church building to get set apart. There was a line of people, so I got to talk to a new guy in the ward and get to know him better. I had Come, Follow Me at Whitney's apartment complex, and I got to share two insights with them that I could tell really touched them. One thing that I learned today is that one Christlike attribute Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ practice perfectly is Gratitude. They are both so grateful for my time serving as a missionary for them. Because of their gratitude, they bless me. That thought touched me so much. They are grateful for the service I do. The other insight I had was about the beatitudes that Jesus taught. Each one involves hardship, sacrifice, or pain in order to gain the listed blessing. I have been wanting to change my perspective on pain and trials, to really appreciate and love them and view them as good because they help me grow. 

Much love,

Emily Burnham

The Rona

 14 September - 20 September 2020

Well hello there! Good thing you can't catch a virus via a blog post! Not that I have my results back... but anyways, I'm getting ahead of myself. Why don't I start at the beginning of the week?

Honestly, it was not an exciting week. Just school and homework and work for the first half of the week. I've been working on spending time each day to be grateful, not only because it is good to do in general, but I had to pick a well-ness strategy to do for 3 weeks straight for my Positive Psychology class, and that was the one I chose! 

So, Wednesday I had an appointment to go into the health center, but they wouldn't let me in because I admitted that I'd been having headaches and that as of today, my nose was kind of runny. They said they couldn't let me in until either I quarantined for 14 days or tested negative for corona. Fortunately, I was able to set up an appointment to meet with the doctor online for the next day, so everything still worked out. But guess what? Yeah, I decided I should get tested, because I actually have felt a bit sick and could have corona, but I have no idea who I would have gotten if from!

So, Friday morning I drove to get a q-tip stuck up both of my nostrils. I only had to wait for 45 minutes! The fun thing, though, was that Whitney also had to get tested because a girl at her work had it, and we coincidentally signed up to get our test around the same time. We chatted on the phone while waiting in line. Later that afternoon, I was watching my Abnormal Psychology class lectures, and this quote from the professor (which I will share with you out of context) made me laugh so hard! "And the dude straight licked the toilet."

Saturday, I went to the library because I needed to check out a textbook for class. When I got home, I felt nauseous and sickly, so by the time afternoon came, I just chilled and watched tv on my computer. I couldn't focus on homework or do much. Because I felt crappy this day, I also felt crappy about myself. But I prayed and wrote in my journal, and I felt the tangible love of my Heavenly Father. I am so grateful for Him, and for my Savior. I love them.

Sunday... well, I stayed home from church because I am supposed to self-isolate. I watched the Restoration movie (always a favorite) and listened to some Sunday jams. I also posted the latest video on my YouTube channel. By afternoon, I was again exhausted, so I slept for a couple hours. I still don't have my results back, but they should definitely come tomorrow! In the evening, I got a text from Whitney that they were having Come, Follow Me over Zoom. I joined in, and after we played QuipLash and this other really fun game. That lasted for about an hour and a half! While I didn't take any pictures this week (for obvious reasons... aka I didn't do anything) I did take a screen shot of our CFM group, so enjoy!

Much love,

Emily Burnham

Water-coloring is Relaxing

7 September - 13 September 2020

Hello my friends! (Well, I guess I should say family, cuz I'm sure they're the only ones reading this... haha). What a week. Another week of school has passed by, and I am finally getting into the rhythm of my schedule. I cannot express how much I love my classes this semester! Especially Positive Psychology. My teacher is SO COOL. He does amazing photography and videos of nature and the night sky. He is so knowledgeable and inspirational. Plus, I'm learning so many amazing an applicable skills that are improving my life and mindset. 

Monday: Since it was Labor Day, there were no classes. I already don't have classes on Monday, but I still held my office hours and worked in the morning. That afternoon, I took a break to go over to Whitney's house and watercolor. Just because it sounded fun and relaxing. I just painted some simple flowers.

Tuesday: I enjoy attending my classes, and I am slowly relaxing because I don't think some of my classes will be as much work as I was thinking. I am definitely more tired and have had headaches frequently (I guess I'll just blame the fact that I not only do my homework on my computer, but I also now work AND attend my classes online. So my poor eyes have been strained lately). But meditation is always a good time to relax all the tension I've been feeling.

Wednesday: I went into the HCEB to work in the morning, went home for lunch, then got ready to do the TA review. In my afternoon class, I was put in a group to talk about the reading, and one of the students in my group is a student I TA for in Behavioral Neurobiology. He complimented me on the reviews that I hold and said they were very good and helpful! That made me feel good.

Thursday: Wow, talk about the longest day ever! I made myself lunch (lasagna) in the small break I had between classes, but didn't have time to eat it before I needed to leave to go to campus and attend Zoom classes. I then had my evening class. Then... I slept. ZZzzzzzzz

Friday: I spent the day doing homework, and then that evening went over to Whitney's to watch a movie. We ended up watching the animated version of Aladdin (a girl in our friend group had never seen it before) and then we just chatted afterwards about the gospel. Quinn played with my hair while she told us about her conversion story, and then she asked each of us to share ours. I love how even those who have grown up in the church have a conversion story.

Saturday: I caught up on some homework that I didn't do the day before (not that I'm behind, mind you. I'm actually very ahead, but I just want to keep it that way). I went down to the library for a couple of hours, and I found a comfortable spot in a building that was completely empty, so I didn't wear my mask! I went home and ate lunch. But I just did NOT feel like doing homework anymore. I was feeling antsy, actually, and just wanted to do something. I decided to put my creative juices to work and did some water-coloring. I really like the final result of my starry night painting! That night, I had a couple of friends over to play games, but mostly we just ended up talking. I made Whitney dinner! Also, it was super cool because I got to share my mission book with Quinn, and retelling stories from my mission and sharing about people I met and loved made me SO SO happy. Wow, missions are just the best. They become a piece of you forever.

Sunday: I enjoyed going to church with all of my roommates. Afterwards, I made an effort to go around and meet some people. I don't like how isolated I feel from the ward. Half the ward meets at 11, and the other half meets at 12. We all wear masks, so I can't even recognize people I know (made that mistake twice... lol). And we aren't supposed to congregate and talk. But hopefully this will change soon!! After church, I had a thought to serve, so I decided to cut out some cute hearts, and I went and heart-attacked the Bishop, my friends, and a lot of apartments in my ward. Afterwards, I took a fat nap (cuz Sunday is a day of rest, after all!) and then went over to Whitney's apartment for Come, Follow Me. We had a great discussion about how lasting happiness comes from living the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Sin may grant instant gratification, but it doesn't last. If we remember that, it is slightly easier to resist temptations. After that, I went to an apartment of sisters in the ward to watch the Face to Face Devotional with the Rasbands. One of the girls there, Rachel, is also gluten and dairy free! She made us yummy corn bread (she was going to do cookies but didn't have the ingredients). We talked afterwards about how pain and living in the tension of not knowing the answers to gospel questions we have is an important part of life because it allows us to connect and bond. There is a purpose in all things.

Much love,

Emily Burnham