Winding Down & Looking Back

Today I had my last real class. I'm getting ready for finals for next week. I've started packing my things up and I'm getting ready to go back to good old American Fork. *Sigh* I really am excited for the summer and all of the fun things that I have planned. My list of activites for the summer keeps getting longer and longer. It will be nice to just work and not have to worry about homework. Also, my really good friend, Elder Eric Fugal is returning from his mission. I can't wait to see him and be able to spend a little time with him. But to every sweet side there comes the sour. I have to say goodbye. I have gained some valuable relationships this past school year. I love these people and it's not like they are dying and I will never be able to see them again. There is Facebook and I'm grateful for it but it's not the same as living with your best friends.

When I got to college I had dropped all of my high school friends because of different interests and I only had a select few people that I was really close to. Completely starting over was intimidating. I had to really put myself out there and learn who I wanted to be. By doing that I have been able to welcome many people into my life. My roommates Alaura, Aubrey, Lacey, Brittany and even Autumn have all touched my life and have helped me become who I am. They have been there for me when I needed a shoulder to cry on, a friend to laugh with and a sister to bond with. All of them carry the spirit with them and they are all trying to live the gospel. I look up to each and every one of them and I want to become like them. I love those girls with all my heart and I will carry their friendships with me where ever I go.

Not only did I become close to my roommates but other people in our building. The boys next door, Brant, Dane, Marcus, Randon, Jon and Chris, were always there to provide entertainment. They have been kind and caring. I have had the opportunity to hear each of their testimonies. Each one is golden. I've been blessed to live by such great young men. I have also become really close friends with Will and Chris from upstairs. Will has been fun to play around with. We have had great times laughing at dumb jokes and late night Wal*Mart runs. Chris and I have been able to have many laughs as well. I love to hear his stories about his dad's business and all the fun that happens in Idaho Falls. We also have had great times playing games or watching House and Leverage. I have enjoyed many, many talks and chats that have lasted until two or three in the morning and even pulling an all nighter with Will and Chris. The girls directly across the hall and the boys kitty corner across the way have also been really fun to get to know. I will always remember the practical jokes, loud music and Jessica studying out on the couch. I would feel awful if I forgot to mention Greg, Steve and Chaise. I loved hanging with them playing Halo or reading the quotes on the big blue wall. What wonderful people I have been surrounded by.

I knew that there was a reason I needed to come to Utah State and live in Jones Hall. I have been given the chance to walk away from this experience with my head held high knowing that I have become a better person because of the great people I have been touched by.

Goodbye Jones Hall.