Sleep deprived and fabulous.

You'd think after two years of this, I'd get used to trying to get back in the swing of things once school starts again.
And you'd think after two years of this wonderful place I'd be able to say that I'd reached the highest of Aggie highs and it couldn't get any better.
You'd be wrong on both accounts.

The last month has been a whirlwind of recruiting, workshops, recruiting workshops, meetings, class, serving pancakes, writing essays, and spending time with the people that make Logan home.

The Judester got married--and if there's anything that makes me happy, it's making sure that the people I love are happy. Her wedding day was magical, and I loved that I got to be a part of it. 

The weekend before school started, I got to spend three days with my Kappa Delta sisters; preparing for this fall's recruitment and getting to know the girls I didn't know very well. If you ever needed a confidence boost, spend absurd amounts of time with 40 girls who share the same loves and ideals that you do...you'll feel like you can do anything when you're done. 

A new school year means new roommates...and this picture just about sums it all up. We can't take a decent picture together, we don't see each other unless we're getting into bed, and we make sure the other person gets to work on time. She's my person. That's all. 

Sorority recruitment is exhausting, exhilarating, and exciting--but it's worth every second of it. Because after a week of house tours, information packed nights, and a couple hours showing the girls that come around what our houses are all about...

We get to welcome new women into our sisterhood. And it was amazing how quickly I learned to love these new members, and even more amazing how quickly my love for Kappa Delta grew. 

Abby and I even found time to be crafty for our boys...a small price to pay for the things they put up with on a daily basis from the two of us. 

And when we finally put our books down for the week, take off our pencil skirts and heels after meeting, and clock out of good ole Village Inn, we get to have a little fun. Because every week should end in a party, especially if it's safari themed and we get to dance outside all night. 

Life is good. 

It doesn't always go as planned and sometimes it's not perfect. But that doesn't mean it's not wonderful, and worth every second. 

 

So good night world--here's to this year being the best year yet, because that's exactly what it's shaping up to be. 

Friday Confessions: Big knows best.

Today's going to be one big confession post--so be ready!

It's "big appreciation week" for Kappa Delta, but I don't think the word appreciate covers how I feel about my big. Yes, I do appreciate her, but it goes so far beyond that. 

I admire her: her ability to stay calm in situations where I want to scream and the passion she pours into everything she does. 

I adore her: the way she squeals "LITTLE!!" when I walk into a room and the way she points out every giraffe related object in existence just for my benefit. 

I trust her: she knows every aspect of my life, and I let her give me advice on everything from boys to shoes and everything in between. 

I channel her: it's a rare day when I don't find myself saying "What would my big do?"

But most importantly, I love her: the way she looks out for me and checks in on me after work. Our big/little dates that usually involve way too much Dr. Pepper and shopping. [and I love the way we match--from our outfits to our names, most days.]

She's my biggest example of how to be a better friend, sister, daughter, sweetheart, wife [someday] and better person in general, and I'm so grateful for her influence in my life. I'm grateful that she's not only a best friend and a sister, but an example, cheerleader, shopping buddy, study partner, secret keeper, and role model. 

Happy Big Appreciation Week, biggie. I love you more than all the Dr. Pepper in the world! 

International Badge Day.

Joining a sorority was never part of my "game plan." 

In fact, when I started college, I had absolutely no idea what a sorority was, or that they were even present on Utah State's campus. 

Even after I began learning about Greek life, I was content to sit on the outside and watch. 

It took a lot of research [and a whole lot of doubting, convincing, and questioning] for me to even consider joining. 

Today though, I'm convinced it was one of the best decisions I've made in college. 

So today, I participated in International Badge Day, along with hundreds of thousands of women across the country. 

Not because of the t-shirts, the tumblers, or the socials--but for the 90 women I have standing behind me in everything I do that make me proud to say I'm a Kappa Delta. 

For the women from other houses that share the same ideals and make me proud to be a part of the Greek community. 

For the girls who have truly become my sisters through their daily advice, support, and love and make me proud to be in the family I'm in. 

But most importantly, for me and the person I want to become, and the letters I wear that make me proud to be myself. 

"People ask why I'm in a sorority, and I try to explain all the things a sorority is that we cannot see. A sorority is more than letters on a sweatshirt. More than a gold pin, rituals, an obligation or a way of life. A sorority is learning about people, a sorority is earning respect from others, as well as yourself. A sorority will not solve all of you problems, but I have made good friends and found confidence there to help me take life one step at a time."

The reasons why.

It's the season of gratitude, and I have so much to be grateful for (50 things in this post to be exact). So settle down for a long one. 

50. My heated blanket: because when I woke up this morning and the heat had been turned down below 50 degrees, I could turn it up, and climb back into bed until it warmed up. 

49. Emilie Anne Facer: because everybody needs a twin sister who sticks it out through all the stupid decisions, crazy weekends, and missionary meltdowns. 

48. The Book of Mormon: because after a 23 hour day of school, work, meetings, and friends, the scriptures put everything back into perspective and help me refocus my life. 

47. Judith Anne Roche: because she had a pretty good reason to pretend like I didn't exist, and let me have a second chance instead. Because at 1 am when I'm approaching meltdown point, she understands me and knows exactly what to say. Because she understands me. #yousneakymom

46. Utah State University: because becoming an Aggie is the best decision I ever made, and I can't even begin to describe how much I love my school. I'll bleed blue til the end of time. 

45. Leggings: because sometimes pants are just way too much effort. 

44. Lauren Adamson: because she's lived with me for over a year now and still puts up with my quirks. She listens to me rant, complain, and talk her ear off, and makes me laugh on a daily basis. Because she's a constant example to me of what I want to become. 

43. The post office in the TSC: because when I'm an awful person and forget to write that missionary of mine, the two old men that work there are always curious about how "my friend in Michigan" is doing and if he's been writing me back. 

42. Dr. Pepper: because nothing puts me in a better mood faster or cures the migraines that seem to attack every five seconds.

41. Mary Alayna Lindberg: because she's the reason I try to be the best I can every day. Because she makes me laugh like nobody else can. Because she's my best friend. 

40. My car: because sometimes I just need to leave, get out. 

39. Emily Breanne Elliott: because she taught me how fast an irreplaceable friendship can be made, and tests my patience like nobody else. Because even in Paris, she knows what I need. 

38. Professor Smitten: because a compliment from him is worth a million dollars, and the desire for one of those compliments pushes me harder and further than I've ever been. 

37. Morgan Elizabeth Coles: because she's been there since 8th grade and knows my fears and dreams better than anyone else. Because I know that even when we go months without seeing each other, we can pick right back up where we left off. 

36. Hockey: because it introduced me to some of the best people in my life. Because it gave me an excuse to go somewhere on a Wednesday night. Because it makes me feel like my best friend isn't quite so far away. 

35. My parents: because I wouldn't be here without them. Because they support me in everything I do. Because they made me the person I am today. 

34. Fine-tip ball-point pens: because I don't have room in my schedule for medium-tip, and it's the little things that make me happy. 

33. Braxton Moon: because nobody else can say that they've stuck around for six years. Because he's the only constant in my world full of change. Because he shares his hoodies, gummy bears, and happy hippos with me.

32. My major: because there's nothing else in the world that I love more than words, books, and talking. 

31. Trent Morrison: because he listens to my endless whining, goes shopping with me, and not only understands, but exceeds my love for Beyonce. Because he's a good cuddle buddy, and an even better friend. 

30. Glitter: because it's hard to be sad when you're sparkly. 

29. Ashley Allen: because she's the big sister I've always wanted and finally have. Because she gives me advice that no one else can. Because we're the same person, in so many ways it's terrifying. 

28. Coldstone: because red velvet ice cream can solve any problem in the world. Because ice cream is one thing that brings me and Jon Downing closer than anything else. 

27. Bronson Kunzler: because nobody makes me feel more loved, important, or special like he does. Because he knows everything about me and still thinks I'm incredible. Because he's the boy who has a majority of my heart. 

26. Kappa Delta: because a girl can never have too many sisters. 

25. My bed: because nothing feels better than a dozen pillows, blankets and my giraffe after an exhausting day. 

24. The Snitches of 102: because I wouldn't have survived my first year of college without them. Because they're my best friends, and the ones I would do anything for. 

23. Farmington, Utah: because regardless of where I live, nowhere brings me as much comfort, happiness, and nostalgia as Farmington's Main Street. 

22. These boys: because they've put up with me for five months and still make me laugh harder than anybody else. Because even though they drive me absolutely crazy, they're the best boys I know. 

21.  Country music: because Luke has my heart, Carrie understands, and Miranda tells it like it is. 

20. My Soarority girls: because they made this summer unforgettable and keep me sane. Because they're the best friends a girl could ask for. 

19. My planner: because there's no other way to keep track of my psychotic life. 

18. The Kunzler's: because they let me steal Bronson far too often. Because they let me in on their game nights. Because they're some of the most Christlike, selfless people I know and I'm blessed to have their family play such a huge part in my life. 

17. The piano: because when you can't leave the house and need to escape, nothing works better than Cristofori's Dream.

16. Hailee Jane Henson: because she understands my loathing of cancer. Because she inspires me to be a better person. Because she's the best example I've ever had. 

15. Hair-dye: because when you need a change but can't do a whole lot, it gives me a new start and a renewed sense of confidence. 

14. My cousins: because they're 30+ little minions who love me unconditionally. Because they give me a reason to be a good example. Because they cure me of my baby-hunger. 

13. A-Team: because it gave me the best summer job I'll ever have. Because I made 45 friends I wouldn't have made anywhere else. Because it made my summer unforgettable. 

12. My little brother: because he likes the same music I do and shares my love for In-n-Out shakes. Because he lets me beat him up....not. Because he makes me laugh. 

11. Sigma Phi Epsilon: because those boys have given me some of the greatest boys I've ever known. Whether it's Derek running to Hobby Lobby with me, Dusty dancing while I do my homework, Trevor going to dinner with me in his pajamas, Kurt giving me life advice, Zack finding me new music, Brady giving me a compliment, Kendall hacking my computer, or Matt experiencing Pumpkin Spice Lattes for the first time, these boys provide me with daily entertainment and friendships that I value more than I can express. Because I'd do anything for them and am blessed to call them friends. 

10. Marley McClune: because she accompanied me on a thousand adventures this summer and understands my soft drink addiction.

9. The temple: because it's given me the most important goal in my life and allowed me to have an eternal family. Because there's nothing more important to me than getting there someday with the boy I love, and the lessons we learn there are the most important knowledge I'll ever have. 

8. Liz Rumball: because she reminds me to wear my shoes, eat on a regular basis, and do my homework. Because at 2 am, she's the one I'm talking to in my car. Because she'll drop anything and everything to help me out. 

7. My oldest little sister: because she makes me food and watches movies with me. Because she shops with me even when she doesn't want to. Because she does everything with me and is my first best friend. 

6. My Viewmont boys: because high school was different because of them. Because they're my favorite dates, pen pals, and missionaries. Because they've changed my life--and continue to do so every day. 

5. Home: because whether it's Logan, Farmington, Kaysville, or anywhere with my best friends, I love the memories that accompany each place. 

4. My grandma: because she's my biggest hero and the greatest example I'll ever have. 

3. The priesthood: because whether it's a bishop's advice, a father's blessing, or my patriarchal blessing, I know what I'm hearing is coming from my Father in Heaven. 

2. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints: because it makes sense when nothing else does. Because it never changes and is the sure foundation I need. Because it continually changes my life and allows me to serve in ways otherwise impossible. Because it's the only true church, and everything I need. 

1. My life: because as crazy and chaotic as it seems at times, I truly love every single aspect of it. Because I'm grateful for everything I get to do, the experiences I have, and the people I'm surrounded by. 

I'm a lucky girl, and I am very, very, blessed. 

The skin I'm in.

Rock-climbing.
Gymnastics.
Back-to-back SOAR days.
Wakeboarding.
Lacrosse.
Snowboarding.
Dance parties.
Basketball.
Ballet.
Ragnar.
Cliff jumping.
13-hour serving shifts.

These are just a few of the things my body allows me to do--and I'm sure there's a thousand others we're able to do I haven't even tried yet.
That's why it doesn't make sense to hate on the skin you're in.

My body may not be capable of making a three-point shot, scoring a field goal, or climbing Mt. Everest--but it can do a whole lot. And I'm grateful for it everyday.

Today is National Love Your Body Day.

I think it's time we all took a second and appreciated what we have--instead of focusing on what we don't.
Remember this post?  Still true.
When I was in junior high and high school, I watched multiple friends struggle with various eating disorders--and it wasn't fun.
It's hard to watch someone you care about become completely dissatisfied with themselves and not be able to do a thing about it.
I have four little sisters, and I don't want any of them to have to deal with that.

We live in a very material world; where image is everything and possessions reign supreme.
We spend a lot of time comparing what we have and who we are to other people, and that's not fair.

Society has warped and twisted the way girls see themselves, and I think it's important that we make an effort to change that. 

Not everyone can be super-model tall, with a Barbie's figure, crystal blue eyes and blonde hair. 

Not everyone is a size 0, has perfectly shaped eyebrows, or Angelina Jolie lips. 

Not everyone wears designer clothing, can walk in high heels like a pro, or pull off the latest fashion trends. 

I'm never going to be six feet tall or wear anything labeled "extra small."

I'm never going to rock a leather mini skirt, or have the bright green eyes I long for. 

I don't have perfectly defined cheek bones or a perfect "bikini body."

But that's okay. 

I love the fact that my hair has a crazy kind of curl to it. 

I love that my eyelashes are almost as thick as my little brothers. 

I love that I don't have to wear heels to be average height.

I love that I can run Ragnar and hold my own on a snowboard.

I love the body I have--and everything I'm able to do with it. 

The beauty of being a girl is that you're never going to be exactly the same as somebody else, no matter how hard you try. Accept that. 

Because if we're being honest, it's hard to be happy when someone is being mean to you all the time. 

Become your own biggest fan. 

Learn to love the skin you're in, be nice to yourself & love your body; because it does a lot for you.

Never saw it coming.

"Let us strive for that which is honorable, beautiful, and highest." 

This is the motto of Kappa Delta, my newest love and the letters I now wear proudly. 

After a summer of debating, a week of convincing, and a night filled with the "go for it" mindset, I officially made this place my home. 

I never saw myself joining a sorority--we all know the stereotypes involved here. But after associating myself with Utah State's Greek community all summer, I knew I wanted to be involved..but I didn't realize that's what I wanted until I listened to Kappa Delta's purpose and philanthropy. 

Remember when I wrote this post? 

As fate would have it, Kappa Delta's philanthropy includes the Girl Scouts, and a program called the Confidence Coalition. This program was founded to help young girls and women develop self confidence and a healthy body image, as well as find healthy, lasting relationships and love themselves and their bodies. 

By working with the local girl scouts and hosting events like Healthy Relationships Week, Kappa Delta works to inspire confidence in girls and women alike. 

I already knew I was passionate about the cause, so I decided I had a decision to make. 

I don't fit the stereotype for a sorority girl. 

I don't wear high heels--in fact, I'm pretty sure it's physically impossible for me to walk in them. 

I don't like Starbucks. 

There are few things on this planet I hate more than Diet Coke. 

BUT. 

Walking into the KD house on Preference night, I knew I'd fit in there. 

We're all different; we're studying different things, going different places, and we're all from different backgrounds. 

But we all have goals, dreams, and plans. We all want to make a difference. We all stand for something. 

KD just gives us a common foundation, a home away from home, and the confidence to stand on our own two feet--backed by dozens of sisters that will stand by us til the end. 

So here's to the green and the pearls...because I'm now a Kappa Delta girl.