Art, Bubbles, and More

9 September - 15 September 2019

I am slowly becoming adjusted to my crazy busy schedule and had a much better week. Plus it helps that God dropped a couple of tender mercies throughout my week!

Monday
I woke up and found a notification on my phone that someone had logged into my email--and it wasn't me! So after a panicked start to my day, I was able to study my scriptures and then exercise for a bit. I had English this morning, and the teacher handed out the game cards today. Ironically, my group is the leader group--the one group I absolutely hoped we would not get! That means that we will have to do a lot more work than the other groups, which is kind of a bummer. Afterwards, I went home for a quick lunch, then went back to campus for my Psychology of Religion class. Today we got put into groups of a different religion that we will have to present on in a couple of weeks. I picked Buddhism and have a pretty great group, which is always a blessing! Afterwards, I went home and drove down to the library to return some books. Then I went home to work on homework, but I wasn't feeling good and it was hard to focus. That afternoon, I biked down to my research class in the Taylor building. I am actually very excited about this course because we will be able to see videos of couples in therapy and have a unique opportunity to see what it is actually like and decide if that is what we truly want to do. Ordinarily FERPA laws prohibit you from watching therapy sessions. Straight afterwards, I biked over to my music class. I actually am really enjoying it and think I am slowly improving, even though I know I have a lot to work on. Afterwards I biked home for a quick dinner before attending our ward-combined family home evening. We played a bishopric trivia game, and while it was not the most organized, it was still fun. Miranda said she saw one of the guys at my table scoping me out, but I don't believe it. She's always saying things like that but nothing ever comes of it.

Tuesday
I don't know why it takes me so long to get ready in the mornings, but at least I am consistently exercising and studying my scriptures first thing in the morning. It has helped a lot. I went to my Intro to Social Psychology class, and it was a little bit boring because it was everything that I had already read in the textbook. Afterwards, I quickly ran home to watch the devotional from my laptop while making lunch. I couldn't go in person because I had to go to a training meeting at the MTC at noon, and I wouldn't have had time to attend the devotional in person. However, they announced that our dear prophet will be speaking next Tuesday at the devotional, and you better bet that I'm going to be there! After the devotional ended, I quickly finished up some work business as an online TA and then went down to the MTC to work for five hours (four of which were spent in my small little cubicle). I was so tired by the end of my shift and very hungry too, so I went home and ate food. Then I had a lot of reading to finish before Institute, but I didn't finish all of it, so I had to continue working on it afterwards. I have not been motivated to do my homework yet, as if I am still in denial that school has started. That is pretty bad attitude perception to have, considering it is already in the middle of week 2 of school!

Wednesday
I had a really good day. I tried to get ready quickly this morning so I could finish my reading assignments for my psychology of religion class. I then attended my English class. I was able to work on multiple things during the class because the teacher is rather long-winded and likes to talk a lot about random things. After class, I went to study from my GRE book for a bit while waiting to meet up with a group from class. It was raining today! The weather was actually quite cold. I ate my lunch and then met with my Psychology of Religion group. We are planning on attending a Buddhist service this Sunday, and I realized that since Stake Conference is in the later afternoon, I won't be able to go to my church. I guess I will just have to tell the bishop that I'm converting to Buddhism. We took a quiz over chapters 1 and 2 in our psychology of religion class and I did not do well on the first quiz. I forgot what made each religion unique and totally mix them all around. But I did get a perfect score on the second quiz. After class I went home and worked on homework and did some laundry. Then I went back to campus to attend a workshop for a writing contest. First place will receive $3,000! I don't know how I will do, but I figure it is worth a shot to try. I left from there to go to my vocal performance class, and on the way there, I ran into a guy from my freshman ward, Spencer Ashworth. It was fun being able to say hi to him. Also, I found someone to go to the BYU spectacular with! My roommate ended up not being able to come with me, but one of the girls in my singing class wants to go with me and bought the ticket extra ticket I had. I cannot tell if my singing is getting better or worse, haha. I went home and ate a quick dinner after class and then headed to the Springville Museum of Art. We would receive extra credit credit for attending, and I was glad that I did because it was enjoyable and I got a lot of free cards afterwards! We made relief prints out of Styrofoam. It was very easy and quite enjoyable.

Thursday
Wow, Thursdays must be the busiest day of my whole week! Well, maybe it was just today in particular. I went to class, ate lunch, then went to work until 5pm. I left from there to go shopping because I had some things I needed to get that couldn't be put off much longer, but it required me driving to a Walmart that was further away. Ugh. Let me tell ya--I got home at 8pm. Literally THREE hours! It took forever, and then I ate dinner and had to stay up finishing my art assignments for tomorrow, despite having to arise early for my custodial job. Blah.

Friday
Work wasn't too bad. I found some food, which is always a bonus, and got leftover popcorn from the game. Then I went to art class and had such an enjoyable time! I don't always know what the teacher's expectations are, but I have a really fun time! We presented our projects and then went outside to blow HUGE bubbles. I'm not quite sure what the point of it was, but it was SO FUN! I literally felt like a little kid again. It was very stress relieving, and she gave us all her secret bubble recipe that she has perfected! After class, I went to the BYU bookstore to get a book, then went home and talked with my mom, who convinced me to reach out to Spencer on Facebook and suggest we should catch up sometime. So I did. Then I studied my scriptures and got ready to go down to work my TA office hour at the Harman building. It ended up taking longer than I thought because I had a situation to deal with... somehow I got hired to work for the Psychology department even though I am actually working for the Continuing Education people. So I've been doing work for them, but then attending meetings for the other job and getting paid at a lower rate through the wrong department! I had to get all that sorted out--get myself fired from the other job so I could be hired for the right department and let them know how much I worked so I could make sure to get my extra money. Anyways, yeah, so I got all that worked out and then went to the ice rink to skate for a bit. Later that evening, Whitney came over and we watched the new Netflix original movie that came out, "Tall Girl." We didn't have time to finish it, but I saw enough to be disappointed with the bad acting and cheesiness of it.

Saturday
Aye, this morning was a bit of a train wreck. So, I had planned on attending the 10am session at the temple. Somehow I ended up at the 10:40am session because I was just running so behind! Then I didn't have time to do homework before leaving for work, and I couldn't find my ID card, so I had to get pulled over by the MTC security and fill out some paperwork. Then when I parked underground, I realized I couldn't get into the building to the elevator without my card and nobody was around to let me in! So I had to walk up and around, making me 10 minutes late! I was so frustrated. But the missionaries who taught me today were so kind and understanding. I still have a lot to work and improve on, but at least this time around I can tell that the missionaries truly think I am a nonmember! After work, I had to do homework up until stake conference, and then after stake conference.

Sunday
I had the most interesting Sunday ever! I went to church with Becca Strong since I would be missing Stake Conference. I ran into some people I knew from my ward last semester, which was cool! I went home and ate a quick lunch before heading off to pick up my classmate to attend the Buddhist service. It was definitely a unique experience. We sat on mats on the floor with booty cushions and did a guided meditation. There were different chants to recite and songs to sing, and then the guy in charge told a story about how they can make elephant poop into paper. They also burned incense and had tea for people to drink. Everyone was really friendly. I got home just in time for our Come, Follow Me study group. Three guys and three other girls attended, which is really good! Better than the previous week :). Soon after everyone left, Spencer showed up to watch the devotional, and Miranda stayed to watch it with us, which I was so grateful for because it helped break my awkwardness. After the devotional, she left and Spencer and I sat across from each other on the couches and talked. The conversation flowed fairly well, and he asked about my mission, and then I asked about his and asked him to show me pictures. Tahiti is such a beautiful place! Just before he left, he asked me out on a double date for Thursday evening, which was super exciting!

Before I sign off, I just want to testify that we can learn the most about God and about ourselves through the way we deal with the trials in our lives. Trials are the times to apply the gospel principles we are studying and trying to emulate. They are the test of mortality, and through Jesus Christ, we can overcome every single one and come out the better for it. I received unexpected blessings this week from the trials I went through--losing one thing only to find another thing I'd previously been searching for, etc.

Much love,
Emily Burnham

First Week of School

2 September - 8 September 2019

Hey! I survived the first week of classes, hallelujah! What a crazy busy and fulfilling week. Honestly, I'm grateful for all that I have accomplished, even though there are a couple of goals and projects that I didn't have time to do. I had a headache for two days straight, probably a combination of learning and doing so many new things and dehydration.

Monday
My last day of break before school starts! I wanted to relax the whole day, but I ended up working a lot on the picture-directory assignment bishop gave to me. That took up most of my morning, and then I got to read a bit from the book I'd checked out from the library, but I got a random message from an old missionary I knew in the MTC, asking if I could show him where all of his classes were. I took time to do that (service, right?) and then went over to Whitney's apartment for a bit. I finished reading my book that evening, since I'd really wanted a chance to read and finish it before school starts and things get hectic with homework.

Tuesday
Today was the first day of classes. I only had one this morning. I woke up a little late from staying up late last night reading a book, which was not a good idea because then I didn't have enough time this morning to study my scriptures like I would have wanted to. I left to go find my class, which was in a building I had never had class in before. Finding it turned out to be more stressful than I had anticipated, but fortunately I found the right classroom with only a few seconds to spare. The teacher seems very nice. She was converted to the church five years ago and shared her conversion story. It was so sweet and touching. After class, I went over to the conference center for a meeting about being an online teacher assistent (TA). I felt very overwhelmed, out of my comfort zone, and inadequate. Fortunately, I ran into a girl who was in my class over the summer who was familiar with the website and could help me out a bit and ease the stress. Then I quickly ate my lunch and headed over to the MTC for my first day as a TRC actress. I did not enjoy the missionaries who came to teach me. They did not pray with me or seem genuinely concerned for me or my feelings. In fact, they called me a fool! They read the verse in 2 Nephi about "thou fool that shall say, a Bible, a Bible, we have a Bible and need no more Bible." I just laughed it off, but I know I should have handled it differently and let them know that made me feel bad. I will do better next time. I went home and felt pretty exhausted. I ran into Becca Strong, my old mission companion, and it was good to see her because it was also her birthday! That evening, I attended the Institute kickoff. After a spiritual meeting, everyone walked over to the church for a dinner and dance, but I couldn't actually eat the food. However, I did get to have a good conversation with some guys that moved into our word. Before heading home, I stopped by Whitney Callahan's apartment to say a quick hello because she lives right next to the church building.

Wednesday
Even waking up earlier did not help me have the adequate time to study my scriptures like I was hoping. And I'm super sore from exercising every morning this week. I think I need to study scriptures first instead of last in order to ensure enough time and not feel rushed. I had a class this morning, afternoon, and evening. First I have an English class (to fulfill a general credit) with the same professor I took the class from last semester. It's nice to know what to expect, but it is also going to be a long and boring class this semester (hopefully my professor never stumbles upon this and reads it). There are two girls from the ward also taking the class (Valerie convinced them), so that's pretty cool. I ate lunch on campus and finished working on my ice skating video. I'll upload it to YouTube and provide a link so y'all can watch it. I'm hoping to film and make more! Then I had my Psychology of Religion course, and in the very middle of it, I left to go meet up with someone to buy a textbook for my Intro to Social Psych class. Unfortunately, I'm not as excited as I thought I would be about taking these classes, especially the Psych of Religion one. That evening at 5pm, I went to my vocal performance class. I signed up because I hoped it can help me become a better singer, but all I accomplished was not passing out from trying to work on my breathing while singing. As soon as I focus on my breathing, it suddenly becomes hard for me to do. Not good. But I'll stick it out and see what happens.
Link to the ice skating video: https://youtu.be/B-p2-SMvT5g

Thursday
Today was much better. I studied my scriptures FIRST and made sure I had sufficient time before getting ready for the day. My Intro to Social Psych class was honestly very boring (even though I made sure to pay attention) because it was all just review of every other psych class I've ever taken! Hopefully it becomes more interesting to me. Then I had to attend a general TA meeting. I ate a quick lunch afterward then biked over to the MTC. I met with the same elders as before, and the lesson went significantly better. I was more serious this time and told them that the lesson before hadn't gone quite as I was expected, and I'd felt foolish for asking my questions. They were humbled and felt really bad, but I told them since we were both learning and new, I was open to giving them a second chance. They showed that they cared about me a lot more and actually ended the lesson with a prayer! Afterwards, I had a set of sisters come in. Their teacher was present during the lesson, and one of the sisters was SO nervous. I could tell because as she started teaching the Restoration, her voice shook and she rushed through the points. A new set of elders came afterwards and did a phenomenal job. They were so sincere and actually listened to me, teaching to my understanding. I felt comfortable opening up to them with questions and concerns. That evening, I went home for dinner, then Whitney and I went to a dance-skating contest that was going on at Peaks Ice Arena. When we first showed up and watched the skaters, I felt like crying because they were so graceful. Everything I aspire to be on the ice! It was really good.

Friday
I regret keeping my early morning custodial job on Friday mornings. Waking up at 4:45am after a week of sleeping in until 6:30am was brutal. I was not coherent for a while. After work, I headed straight over to my 8am Art Education class. This class is also to fulfill a GE course credit, but I am actually really excited for it! Even though it is 3 hours long... My teacher is spunky and fun. She showed up in a colorful plaid shirt with overalls that ended as a skirt and rooster earrings! I had so many creative ideas come to me already, even about my final project. I'm so excited to start working on it, and I'll have to keep you posted on the art that I create throughout the semester! Be excited; it's gonna be awesome! Back at home, Whitney called and asked if I could pick her up because she'd missed the bus and was stranded. Even though I felt like I had a million things to do and was swamped with homework, I knew the Lord would bless and magnify my time, so I didn't hesitate to go and help her out. I also went down to the Harman building for an hour to hold TA office hours (even though no students came in, as it is just the first week of the course). That evening, we had our ward social at Lion's park. I ate tons of food and had fun getting to know new people.

Saturday
I didn't sleep in. Instead, I got up early enough to get ready and catch the 7:40am temple session. It made me SO happy to see that for once, the boys outnumbered the girls in the session! I had a TA training meeting at 10am (I know, I have had soooo many meetings lately) and then my shift at the MTC from 1 to 5pm. I had lessons with the same sisters as yesterday, and it went a lot better. They had really thought and prayed about me and slowed things down. It's cool to be able to see the missionaries progressing as teachers while they think their the ones helping me progress towards baptism. And y'all, my acting skills ARE getting better. Slowly. I'm doing better and better with each lesson. After the sisters, the I had the second set of elders again, the ones who did a great job. They did well teaching me again, even as I threw one of them for a loop with one of my questions. After my shift ended, I went down to the Harmon building on campus to clock-in and grade some assignments (since half of my hours have to be in that building), and then I went grocery shopping, because I had completely spaced to do it Thursday! I got home around 7pm and then made dinner. I stayed up working on one of my art project assignments due this next Friday.

Sunday
I slept in this morning. I was so tired from this crazy week! It was super nice and my body needed a break. Church was great. I loved the talks and relief society lesson. After church, we held Come, Follow Me at 3:30, since we realized that ward prayer is now at 7pm instead of 8pm. No guys from the ward came this time. Bummer. But I also don't think they were aware of the time-change since not all of them are on the ward Facebook page. But Vincent and his roommate came, along with a couple of girls in the ward, and we still had a great discussion. I also sent a picture of me and Katie to my mission trainer, Vanessa, because they danced together in a club for many years! Small world!

One comment that really stood out to me today in relief society was about loving others as ourselves. Yes, we need to love ourselves before we can love others, but think about that. Who on earth knows you better than you do? You know your weaknesses, your shortcomings, your insecurities. If you can love yourself not only for your strengths, but also for (or despite) your weaknesses, then you can learn to love others despite their shortcomings. Our strengths will always outweigh our weakness through the grace of Jesus Christ. We are who we are, and with Him, we are more than enough. 1 Corinthians 15:10: "But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain..."

Have a wonderful week!
Much love,
Emily Burnham

MTC Trainings and NSO

26 August - 1 September 2019

Wow, my busiest week yet! No kidding, just wait until I tell you about it! But also a week of growing, learning, and progression. I'm so grateful for a mindful Heavenly Father who is patient enough to teach me over and over again, sometimes the same lesson for years as I try to overcome and progress back to Him.

Monday
This is my last full week of working early morning custodial! I feel so blessed to be working at the MTC as my main job. I have so many trainings to go to for it this week, though! Starting today at noon. I had an orientation meeting that lasted about two hours. That afternoon, I met up with someone to sell them Valerie's iClicker, then spent some time at the library working on my ice skating video. I'd just gotten it finished and was trying to save it before the library closed, when all of the sudden the program shut down! So I lost everything, which was very sad and frustrating. Then I left in a hot stressed mess fashion, only to realize I forgot my thumb drive and rushed back to claim it before they closed and locked the doors!

Tuesday
This day was insane. I went straight from work to the New Student Orientation meeting for the Y-group leaders. I left that early so I could go ice skating and see Rick again! He was so helpful in teaching me better control when skating on one leg, and even though I could only stay for 35 minutes, it was SO worth it! I had to leave THAT early so that I could go to another training meeting at the MTC. I was only home for a bit because then I had another meeting that afternoon at 3:30, and then one at 6pm, so I stayed over at the MTC for those 4 hours and finally got home after 7pm! I guess I received what would be considered the ultimate compliment during my character development meeting with my supervisor: "They will totally think you're a nonmember!"

Wednesday
I hand wrote my dad a letter today because my mom had been mentioning how stressed he had been lately, and I wanted him to feel loved and appreciated. I also went ice skating at 11:30 (with wet hair, since I didn't plan that out very well) and got to talk with my friend Danny that I met a while back. She really wants to write me a program! I went shopping that afternoon, since I know the food will be scarce after all the new people moving back in for Fall semester. I had a bit of time to help Allie move some of her stuff after she helped carry up my groceries, and then I rushed off to a new hire training at the MTC that afternoon.

Thursday
After about 2.5 hours of work, I biked down to the field by the outdoor track to check in for New Student Orientation (NSO). I got to help put wrist bands on the freshman as they came in. Then we lead them all to the Marriott for the kick-off, where President Worthen spoke. We got to head to lunch. I had been so hungry since all I'd eaten ALL day was a banana, but when I got to the cougar café to spend my voucher for lunch, all the lines were super long, and apparently Chick-Fil-A's grill was broken, so they didn't have any grilled chicken. I didn't want to wait in another long line since time was limited, so I just ordered as many fries with $10 as possible. Yup, you heard me right. I ordered FOUR large waffle fries for lunch. And yes, I basically died afterwards. It was too hard to finish them all, but I got super close. I also came close to dying. I really have no clue what I was even thinking, to be honest! We went back to the Marriott for a safety meeting, then took our group to a secluded spot so they could ask questions and express fears or concerns. I really enjoyed giving them my advice and having them look up to me. It felt good to help them and give them guidance. They really look up to me as their leader and mentor. I was SO exhausted afterwards, but I had to hurry home and change, getting ready for my last (!!!!) training to do at the MTC before I start working on Tuesday. I am so nervous, but also super excited. I've felt so much more peace about it than I thought I would. I know it is what God would have me be doing to help the missionaries grow and progress. I'm excited for this opportunity.

Friday
I did not go into work this morning. It was nice having extra time in the morning to get ready before heading over to the Marriott Center to meet up with my NSO group. We listened to a devotional, and one point that was iterated stood out to me: Choose what you will NOT do. There are so many good things we can do every day. Sometimes the challenge is knowing what to give up so that you can really have time to focus on things that matter most. We took the kids ALL around campus, and while it was fun, it was also so exhausting that when I got home, I literally just collapsed onto the floor, then finally moved on my bed and laid there for almost an hour, not moving. I forgot I had to meet up with someone on campus for Valerie to sell a textbook for her, so I rushed to change and bike to campus in FIVE minutes. Yes, I deserve an award for that! Miranda finally got back into town this afternoon! She was gone the past two weeks. We ended up talking about a boy she was hung up on even after 18 months. I had some really inspired words to share with her. She wanted closure by knowing why the boy had suddenly stopped talking to her, but I realized that true closer can only come from God. He is all-knowing and can help answer missing puzzle pieces or bring peace and reassurance, leaving us hopeful for the future. Truly the Spirit can help us know what to pray for, because while God does grant us the desires of our heart and answer prayers, sometimes our desires need to change and the way we ask our questions should be altered. Instead of asking to see him again, she can ask to pray for her desires toward him to change so she can finally move on if that is God's will. That evening, my friend Whitney texted to see what I was up to and ended up coming over to hang out. We made guacamole and popcorn, and spent a lot of time catching up with each other. She's a great friend and I'm so glad she lives super close! I was also so happy to receive a letter this week from my recent convert, Brother Tom! He wrote me the cutest letter, and after reading it, I had tears in my eyes and thought, "This is what true happiness is!"

Saturday
I went to the temple this morning to do initiatories, and it was cool to see Whitney working in the temple! After, I stopped by the public library to return some books. I accomplished a lot of check-list items I needed to get done, and I was able to visit with my friend Becca Strong, who I got to see for the first time since I last saw her in the mission field! It was a little weird for us, especially calling each other by our first names, but it was so great to see her. I had a relaxing evening, just reading a good book I'd checked out from the library by one of my new favorite authors (introduced to me by my little sister, Lucy) and eating popcorn. For dinner, I made these vegan chickpea burgers, and they actually turned out pretty good, so I'm proud of myself!

Sunday
Fast and testimony meeting! A lot of the new men in the ward got up to bear their testimonies, though not as many males showed up as I was expecting. I'm sure I'll meet a lot of new ones next week, too! I got to teach Sunday School today (as one of two teachers), and it went well despite the many interruptions. People were drawn out row by row during the lesson to go have their pictures taken, so that was a bit obnoxious, but I think it went well. I know it could have been better and I could have prepared more, but I'm happy with how many people participated and spoke up to share insights! So, I got roped into helping the Bishop organize the pictures he took of everyone with their names and where they live, so I stayed after church to get all the pictures. Then, I met up with Becca and her group of friends for a Come Follow Me study group, where I met two others who are also interested in psychology and will be taking a class I'm TAing for! Then I went back and met up with Lexy. We went and knocked on every door of the boy's apartment complex, inviting whoever answered to come to our study group we are having tonight. Lexy and I were doubtful that very many would show up... but guess what?? TEN guys from the ward showed up, plus my friend Vincent. So there ended up being 11 guys and only 3 girls! :)

I have a testimony that we are the happiest when we live the gospel of Jesus Christ, keeping all the commandments. Satan will do a good job at convincing us that we can gain unparalleled happiness in sin (such as the high that can come from engaging in inappropriate media or doing drugs), but I testify that these are cheap, short-term, and guilt-inducing. They can never bring lasting, fulfilling happiness. We will experience the MOST joy possible as we keep every commandment and engage with media that also follows His standards, allowing clean thoughts and feelings to dwell in our bodies. This allows the Holy Ghost to also dwell in us.

Much love,
Emily Burnham

Did Someone Say Actor?

19 August - 25 August

Wow, I've been so crazy busy, so I'm sorry this is being written so late! But I have so much good, happy news to share!

Monday
I had the best start EVER to the week. It all started 3.5 hours after I went to work. We got to go over to a field where Maglebys was catering breakfast to the athletes. I got to sneak over with my supervisors and load up on bacon, sausage, and steak! They also had other yummy-looking things that I couldn't eat. But, I was able to take TWO boxes home full of meat. Plus, there was tons of left-over popcorn from the game that weekend that I could take :) That meat lasted me pretty much all weak, which was great.

Tuesday
Today was a great day!I didn't realize until later that I felt prompted to attend the hour long adult skating session at the rink. I just felt like I should go and check it out, even though there was a lot of other things I could have done and needed to get done. When I showed up, there was only five other adults there getting skates on, two of which were elderly. The elderly man, Rick, soon became my best friend because as he saw me struggling, he came over and gave me the most helpful pointers ever! I felt like I was receiving my own private lessons from him, and my skating improved almost instantly as I learned where to put my weight while skating forward and backwards. It was literally a blessing, a straight-up tender mercy from God. That afternoon, my apartment was invaded by the carpet cleaner guy spraying chemical everywhere, so I packed up my bag and went to the library for a few hours. I am teaching myself how to use Adobe Premier and I'm compiling a video of me improving my cross-overs.

Wednesday
That morning, I went to drop off a textbook that someone bought from me, and just before I arrived, I received a phone call. Guess what? I got the TRC acting job! I accepted and was so happy! I couldn't actually believe it. Right after, I went to Peaks Ice Arena. I was so excited to go ice skating again today to practice everything Rick had taught me from the day before. My glides and balance are improving remarkably. I really love this as my new hobby. Sometimes it can be frustrating without a coach to help teach me when I feel like I'm doing something wrong and not progressing, but as I improve and become more comfortable on the ice, I feel so elated and free and powerful.

Thursday
One of my biggest annoyances at work is when people open the glass doors with their sweaty arms and leave giant sweat-marks. Gross! I had an appointment in the afternoon with my career advisor. It was a very helpful meeting as I planned out the rest of the things I need to do before graduation. He had so many insightful suggestions. Instead of taking the fast-track and graduating this next April, I am going to take it slow and easy, which will be a lot less stressful and enable me to gain more research experience and have more time to study for the GRE. I took care of other menial tasks I've been meaning to do, as well.

Friday
That morning, I had go down to the MTC to get all the paperwork done so I could officially get hired. Then I went to do cleaning checks for the apartment Valerie was supervising for Connan. That evening, I went to our ward escape room. There were actually three different ones, plus a game room. They were very well done! Of course, I hacked the lock in the first room when my team wasn't looking, but then decided we should actually find the last number and not cheat, so I waited until we found the last clue. And actually, I was the one to find the last clue! Thanks to my height :) It was hiding on top of the metal frame of the front door, and I could just barely spot it when I peered around the room from on top of a chair.

Saturday
My new roommate Katie moved in this morning. I didn't have a chance to talk to her very much until that evening because I went to the temple. When I got home, she was gone. I spent a few hours that afternoon over at the library until I became SO hungry that my stomach started clenching in pain! Yikes... so I got home as quick as I could and made myself some oatmeal. I had about an hour that evening to talk with Katie and get to know her a bit better.

Sunday
The second hour of church was combined today. It was our last Sunday as a combined ward, since we have 70+ new men moving into the newly renovated apartment complex. How exciting! It was funny though because the move-in date is tomorrow, but there were workers out there bright and early today, and still there after we got home from church, frantically working to finish everything up! That afternoon, Emily Allen called me to see if I wanted to go visit Sister Osborn with her, since she had apparently gotten surgery! We went and visited for over an hour, which was nice, even though the parts discussing the surgery made me feel a little sick... I decided to host a popcorn party that evening, so after making a big dinner, I made up even more popcorn! I was really happy with the turnout, and everyone had a great time! The popcorn was the best I've made yet :). Then I went to bed soon after since I had work bright and early the next morning! I woke up a few hours after going to bed because I really had to use the restroom, and that's how I met my new roommate, Kayla! She had gotten in late that night and was unpacking, I guess. I'm sure I made a great impression, you know, since I was half-asleep and wearing a robe. Haha :)

To be honest, I don't feel like I've had the best scripture studies, or even prayers, this week. I've felt the distance that has created between me and God, but I made a goal to work hard to focus more and make things more meaningful. A comment that really stood out to me on Sunday was to approach Heavenly Father with reverence. I decided I needed to feel reverent before I prayed to my Father so I wouldn't take it for granted. Even throughout this week of imperfection, God has blessed me greatly. I am so grateful for how patient He is with me! He loves me even after knowing all of my weaknesses and shortcomings. He doesn't condemn me for them, but He encourages and loves me through them.

Much love,
Emily Burnham

Finals and Friendships

12 August - 18 August

Hey! What a week! Life is such a roller-coaster; it is a fact of life! This week had its ups and downs, but as I reflect over my week, I can't helped but feel so blessed, overall. I didn't really take any pictures this week, so I took two blurry screen-shots from the videos I took of me ice skating!

Monday
Last day of classes finally arrived! Hooray! But also yikes. On the bright side, I didn't have to go in for work at 5am because I wasn't hired back at my custodial job (after being fired so I could work ACT camp). I went in around 7:30am to pick up the paperwork to fill out in order to get re-hired. I had my last class for the summer! We presented our research project, which was really cool. Ours was one of the few experiments that actually found an effect! For Family Home Evening, our wards combined out on the church lawn, eating pizza. I went for a bit but didn't stay long because I couldn't have the pizza.

Tuesday
I had work this morning. Blah. But at least I got a raise so I'm now making $12 an hour! Valerie was actually up before me, finishing packing up. I gave her a big hug goodbye, and she left on her way back to AZ for graduate school. Farewell, my sista sista! Also, I had my interview this afternoon to be a TRC actor. I think it went well, but we'll see what they tell me in two weeks... Right after, I rushed to campus for the test review. I haven't been motivated to study for my final tomorrow, so I figured attending the TA's review would help. Then I left a bit early to head over to the MFT Q&A session at the Taylor building. I studied for a bit that evening.

Wednesday
I left from work a bit early to give myself some more time to finish studying. I felt ready. I was also just dreading it. But I finally went and took my final. I was unsure about some, but I just needed a B. Well, miraculously I ended with a 95%. So yeah, that was a blessing! Afterwards, I went ice skating with Lexy. She was kind of afraid to skate, since she fell and hurt herself last time, but I think she enjoys going. That evening, I helped her roommate, Amy, to move her stuff to a new apartment!

Thursday
During work this morning, I found a card in the trash that had some free lunches at the Cannon Center still on it. It belonged to another Volleyball player. I asked the secretary if I could use it, and she said, "Sure! I would, if I were you!" So I got a free lunch at the Cannon Center! Unfortunately, they didn't have many options for me, so besides some fruit and gluten-free desserts, the only thing I could eat was a hamburger patty. Plain. Well, I did put some ketchup on it. That evening, I had a date from a guy I met on Mutual. We went slacklining, which was super hard, but I was slowly getting the hand of it. It's similar to walking on a tightrope (not that I've ever done that), but the line is flat and slack (so it bounces and wobbles a ton when you walk on it).

Friday
After work, I ate a bit of breakfast. When I went down to the Cannon Center for lunch, I was told that my card had expired. Noooo! So sad, but also it's fine because it wasn't actually mine to begin with and I already received one free meal. But then I didn't know what to eat, so I went home and researched recipes to print off to make my very own cook book, once and for all. Hopefully I can get into a better habit of cooking for myself! I went ice skating that afternoon and truly feel that I am slowly improving! I had Whitney and her roommate, Megan-Jean, over for dinner. I made Tex Mex Chicken and Zucchini. It was alright (not as good as I was hoping) but I don't know if I cooked the chicken long enough... oopsies.

Saturday
I slept in, but then woke up and got ready to attend the temple. While I was sitting in the endowment room, I thought to myself, "How is me being here helping me to become a better person? What do I need to learn?" I am trying to develop that attitude about everything I do, because I know that more importantly than doing is becoming. I'm not sure if I got anything new and revelatory out of it, but I'm grateful that I am at least becoming more conscious. I took it super easy the rest of the day because I didn't feel like doing anything. I'm so burnt out from attending school for 7 months straight, not giving myself a real summer break. With Fall semester starting in two weeks, I hope that if I do nothing and am super lazy, then I will get sick of doing nothing and will be motivated to go hard this Fall semester!

Sunday
I awoke around 5am feeling awful. I went to the kitchen to get water and take some medicine, and I almost blacked out! I sat on the kitchen chair for approximately 15 minutes, waiting to see if the medicine had helped, then went back to bed. I got ready for church and really enjoyed sacrament meeting today. I felt God speaking to me and guiding me during the talks, and I even felt like the hymns were picked out just for me. I'm grateful to renew my covenants and have a fresh start every week. I really needed that today. Then I taught Sunday School. I didn't feel that it was my best ever, but I still received some compliments and know the Spirit is the real teacher anyway, as long as I try my best. Plus, you got to cut yourself a bit of slack whenever you aren't feeling very good. I was invited to attend someone else's Come, Follow Me study group in the afternoon, and it was different that what I was used to, mostly because I felt a bit uncomfortable from not knowing everyone super well.

One scripture that really stuck out to me this week is found in Romans 13:8-10.

“Owe no man any thing, but to love one another: for he that loveth another hath fulfilled the law.

“For this, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not kill, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Thou shalt not covet; and if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

"Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law.”

I took this to meant that if I had perfect love, I would not break any other commandment. I would have no desire to steal, kill, or lie if I perfectly loved others. I would take better care of my body if I perfectly loved myself. Thus, if there is a commandment we are breaking, we need to figure out how it relates to the principle of love and work on that aspect of love. If we pray for charity and love in the specific aspect in which we are failing, God will help us overcome that weakness by growing our ability to love. 

Much love,

Emily Burnham

ACT Camp - Epic Bike Crash

5 August - 11 August

Hola mi familia! I haven't really been practicing my Spanish in a while, but I really need to! It's on my bucket list to learn.

Monday
I didn't sleep all that well, so I was quite tired today, even though I technically got to sleep in (I don't have to work early-morning custodial this week)! I got my girls up, then took them all to breakfast at the Cannon Center. So, I kind of threw healthy eating out the window this week and ate all the muffins and sugary-cereal they had all week long! (I still made sure everything was gluten-free, of course). I had basketball class right after, then my research class. I had a few hours that afternoon to work on things before reporting back that evening at 5pm to pick my girls up from their class at the JKB. I texted them where I would be waiting, and the girls slowly found it and came. Except for one girl, because they accidentally left her while she was using the bathroom and then she got lost. I decided to take my bike and ride around the building looking for her. I didn't find her, so I was thinking how I should just call her. I was holding my phone in my right hand while biking fast, and I went to hit the breaks but just on my left side since my phone was in the way, and my front wheel locked, sending me flying head-over-handlebars onto the pavement. In front of 50 EFY witnesses. Luckily, my bike landed in front of me, not on me, and I was able to continue on the rest of the night with no broken bones. Just some road rash and bruises on my check, hip, thigh, and knee. After eating dinner (we had J-Dawgs catered), the kids colored table mats as a service project, and I just took it easy since I was still in pain from my fall. Afterwards, each group combined with another group and we played field games outside. One of the ACT camp boys was totally hitting on all of the counselors! (Me included, haha).

Tuesday
In the morning, I gathered my girls together (like a hen gathers her chickens) and took them all to breakfast. I'm definitely being spoiled since I don't have to cook for myself! I had basketball class, and then the rest of the day was free! I worked a bit on homework, but didn't feel like doing much. My hip is in a lot of pain, and basketball doesn't really help with that, but oh well. I'm pretty good at just hanging in there through pain. That evening, we had dinner at Heritage Central, which is not as good as the Cannon Center. We had an art activity in the ballroom where we "painted" flower pots using chocolate pudding. We only had two minutes, though! Afterwards, I went with a group down to the creamery and watched as everyone got ice cream and other treats. At 9pm, I had a really good devotional with my girls. I shared the insight about how we can respond to thoughts in two ways: with shame or with truth. The Spirit was very palpable, and the girls really seemed to enjoy it.

Wednesday
All ACT groups met up after breakfast for a giant picture, and I left a bit early so I could run down to my basketball class. Then I had my Psych class. Oh my, I am SO ready for classes to be over! So so so ready. Just two more to go after today! I also received an email back about my application to be a TRC actor, and they want me to come in for a second interview! I hope all goes well because I would love to have a job interacting with human beings (as opposed to trash cans and toilets), AND it would be with missionaries! After dinner that evening at Heritage (yuck), we all went to the Conference Center Ballroom for the dance. It was over 2 hours long! It was fun though because I got to roast boys for not asking girls to dance and guilted at least 5 of them into asking a girl to dance for the slow song. I also had an hour long conversation with one of my girls, Brietta, about books. She didn't want to participate in the dance, so I just sat with her and talked about my favorite stories and authors. It was such a fun conversation, even if admitting so makes me a nerd ;).

Thursday
I haven't gotten sick of eating at the Cannon Center for breakfast yet... but it does make me slightly sick (only because I have zero self-control, apparently). My girls really love me and I feel blessed to have such an amazing group! For camp that evening, everyone listened to a speaker talk about the effects that exercise has on the brain. Then we split into groups to do different activities. I walked back with the girls to the dorms to supervise them there as they relaxed/studied for their big test the next day.

Friday
Today was the big day for the girls! Some of them were taking and actual ACT exam that could be counted when they applied to attend BYU. They were all so nervous, but I kept them in my prayers. I went to all my classes, then went home and did laundry and cleaning. I also went ice skating by myself for an hour, and I had the rink almost to myself! It was amazing and so much fun! Then I had to report back for camp. We picked our exhausted girls up from their test and went to the Ballroom, where Olive Garden catered a pasta bar for dinner. Then we ate ice cream and watched the movie Hidden Figures, which I had never seen before. My girls wanted to stay up and party all night since it was their last night at camp. I had also written them all heartfelt notes that they all really appreciated. It was a really great and fulfilling week with all of them, albeit very exhausting!

Saturday
I had to herd girls to breakfast and check them out of their dorms, making sure they cleaned and did everything right. The last girl's mom didn't come until a bit after 10am to get her, so I just had to sit and wait with her. But finally everything was over! I went home and got ready to go to the temple. Afterwards, Valerie and I went to the water park and rented a tube to be able to go on all the rides. It was super fun, but I kid you not... the bottom of my feet burned! I literally had a blister on each foot from how hot the pavement was! That evening, I pulled off Val's surprise going-away party without a hitch. She never suspected a thing! She thought we were going over to Lexy's apartment for dessert, but really her friends were hiding and waiting to surprise her. I'd even snuck her karaoke machine out from the back of her car to use! There was so much delicious food, and many people stopped by. Valerie was so happy and touched.

Sunday
I was so exhausted when I woke up. I felt like I could sleep all day! This was a very taxing week, but I wouldn't trade it for anything! It was super rewarding working with people, and I felt so loved and appreciated by my girls. I'm ready for a change. With my sister leaving, I hope to be able to fill the void with more interaction with others. I really hope to get the job at the MTC because that will be more fulfilling than taking out trash and vacuuming! I want to be more proactive about inviting others over for dinner and going on fun adventures. I'm ready for a fresh start in my life, but I'm sad I won't be living with one of my best friends anymore. I took TWO naps today. I know. I was just so worn out. I went to Reconnect at the Osborn's home. Also, I was fasting today since I couldn't last week, so I broke my fast later in the day. I also attended ward prayer, and we played a fun catch phrase/charades game.

One insight I had today in Relief Society involved feasting. I know, food always seems to be brought up a ton when you are fasting! Part of the purpose of a feast is to celebrate and build relationships with others. It is a time to show gratitude and love. When you read your scriptures, do you feast on them? Do you read because you feel obligated to, or because you love the Savior? Are you full of gratitude? Is your relationship with God deepening? Are you learning new things about Jesus Christ daily? This really helped me to paint a picture in my mind of what "feasting on the words of Christ" truly mean, and I definitely want to do better and be better.

Much love,
Emily Burnham

Windy Garden Photoshoot

29 August -  4 August 2019

Howdy fam and friends!! I had a wonderful week! I got to spend some quality with my sister this weekend, which is good because she is LEAVING ME this next week :(.

Monday

I've been finding the coolest things at work in the trash... someone is cleaning out their office! One of the only perks of working custodial! Finding cool things, cuz one man's trash is another's treasure! For FHE, I went to the Osborn's home for dinner, while the rest of my group went to another member of the Bishopbric's house. I had to go to a different group because I forgot to tell the other family about my food allergies, but the Osborns had something for me to eat. It was fun talking to them about my new bucket list. I added two new things to it after speaking with them: to go skiing and to skate on an outdoor ice rink!

Tuesday

After basketball, I went to the target all the way over to Orem to buy the innertube I was searching for... but they didn't have it, even though online said they had it. Ugh. Then I was soooo hungry because I only ate a granola bar and nothing else all day. And it was 1:30pm! So I drove to Cafe Rio since it was super nearby, but they didn't have anything I could eat! Lame. I'm never go back there again. Then I drove to the target in Provo, and they had the tube I needed! I got some waffle fries at Chick-fil-A to tide me over, and then I went to the library to return my books. Today was definitely one of those days where God is testing your patience. That evening, my apartment had Ris and another apartment over for dinner, so we missed institute. But I enjoy getting to know people better in more intimate settings.

Wednesday

After class, I went to get my Sam's Club card! My mom is the best. They have so many cute and expensive things that I now really want to buy. Can I get some early Christmas money?? ;) I also had to get fired from all of my jobs (apparently I had 3 recorded online, even though I'm only working custodial right now) so I can work ACT camp this next week. It was so funny to receive an email with this heading: "You're fired :)" It was a relief that everything was finally taken care of. That evening, we had a relief society JAM PARTY! We partied it up with Val's boom whackers, and everyone had a great time. Valerie made so many cinnamon roles and became super exhausted so I gave her a short back rub.

Thursday 

Thursday
I decided to go shopping at Sprouts and bought some food. I was tempted to buy some unnecessary items, like candy and a special pizza! That evening, I had to attend a meeting for ACT camp that was sooo long that Val and I couldn't go to the Studio C live showing! How sad!

Friday

I felt so sick at work. I finished my job ASAP and went home just before 8am to get some medicine. I didn't want to go to my Psych class. I was curled up in bed, talking to my mom on the phone, and she gave me an epic pep talk to motivate me to go. The miracle of the day was that I felt better just for class, then later when I got home, I didn't feel well anymore. But I didn't want to cancel my plans with my friend Lexy to go ice skating, so I just went anyway. We had a really fun time. We have a lot in common and had a fun time chatting. She was growing more and more confident on the ice, even feeling up to trying some tricks. But then she fell... She seemed alright, and soon after we went home. She practiced on the piano for her niece's baptism tomorrow, and I sang along to help her practice. It was really relaxing. That evening, I thought of maybe doing something fun. Instead, I worked on my essay that is due on Monday. 

Saturday

I went with Valerie early this morning to the 8am session at the Provo City Center temple. It was packed! There was at least 5 or 6 live endowments happening! It was packed, but good. I am grateful for the things that I am learning about temple. There is so much we can read and study about outside of the temple. Often people don't because they don't know exactly what they are and are not allowed to talk about. Afterwards, we did so much cleaning and organizing! Valerie gave me some more side dresser things, so now my room has a bit of a new look to it! That evening, we went out together for dinner, and then drove down to this garden that has a bunch of statues. We were going to do a photoshoot too. We didn't realize until we got there... it was $20 per person to get in! Yeah, so no. We just took pictures out front and walked around. We just had the best time, cracking each other up, making up random raps, taking goofy pictures! It was super windy. I sure do love my sista sista!

Sunday

Wowza. What a day! We always have super spiritual fast and testimony meetings. Today I felt like I should go up and bear my testimony--not for anyone else, but just for me and God. So I could be strengthened by the reminder that I know for myself that He lives and loves me personally. It was short and simple, but very sweet. I also found out at church that Lexy's wrist ended up being sprained from her fall while ice skating! Yikes!! That afternoon, I finished getting everything ready for ACT camp and had a bit of time to practice the violin. Then, Val and I headed off for camp! We will be staying in the Heritage dorms all week long leading a group of girls each evening and morning. Plus, free breakfast and dinner! We got to eat at the Cannon center for dinner, then we headed over to get ready to check in all 150 kids! We ate some ice cream (yes, they even had some dairy-free for me) and got our group back to the dorms. My room was hot. The bed was harder than I'm used to. And I'm not used to sleeping with a roommate. Plus the people next to us were noisy. Let's just say all of that combined meant that I didn't sleep very much or very well...

I recently read in my journal an experience I had on my mission in my last area. I was struggling a bit having to face going home soon, and we showed up at a mutual activity and one of the YW leaders singled me out and started talking to me. Suddenly, it was like she was peering into my soul and she said such inspired words of counsel to me! She told me that sometimes we will have thoughts enter our head from Satan. We can respond to those thoughts in two ways: with a shameful response or with a truthful response. Shame leads us to comparisons. Either we aren't good enough, or we are better than the other person. The truthful response is that we are always good enough and loved unconditionally. Think of this example: you text a boy and he never responds. You might want to think to yourself, "I shouldn't have been so hasty" or "I'm too good for him anyway. Either of these responses ends with you either thinking too little or too much of yourself. The true response would be, "I am good enough and I'm loved unconditionally." And leave it at that. No overanalyzing or feeling shameful, just feelings of love and acceptance by your Savior and Heavenly Father.

Much love,

Emily Burnham