Story of My Life

The Adventures of the Unemployed

2011-01-20T16:48:00.000-08:00

Once upon a time (naturally), a young, single adult, named Ashley, quit her job. This was not any ordinary job she quit and this was not any ordinary reason why she decided to quit as well. Her job was to sell the devils brew disguised and advertised as a harmless stimulant called coffee. Ashley knew it was wrong to sell coffee and finally quit. But that's not the only reason why she quit. No, she quit mainly because she had a duty to fulfill. A divine calling to Boise, Idaho where the people of Idaho needed to hear her voice declaring truth and righteousness.

But she still has about a month to do that. In the meantime, she has to find ways to entertain herself and find new ways to get out and about to take care of the things needed for her marvelous journey. So far, her entertainment has consisted of the following: babysitting, watching t.v. (particularily Dirty Jobs), learning to throw a football (thanks Sol), and reading her scriptures. Ashley looks forward to phone calls from the doctor, a letter from the DMV, hanging out with her ex-co-workers (tonight), going to the temple, seeing Mom, and (obviously) going on my mission.

This story hasn't ended yet. In fact, this story, hopefully, will last for years.

P.S.

2011-01-14T11:25:00.000-08:00

I no longer work at Starbucks! WHOOO!!!!!! So long!!!

Hello Again!

2011-01-14T11:00:00.000-08:00

It has been particularily hard lately to write what I felt on my little bloggie because I felt almost nothing. I was having a hard time sorting through my emotions and did not know what I wanted. This confusion I now believe was caused by Satan's hatred and manipulation because I am about to serve a full-time mission. He can't stand the fact that I am stronger in spirit and in mind and that I want to bring others into the gospel. I have been praying and reading the scriptures and am gaining a stonger testimony everytime I do so. I admit that I am nervous to go on my mission but that will not stop me from ever turning away from it. This is what I have been prepering for. I KNOW the gospel is true! I KNOW that only through Jesus Christ's atonement we can be forgiven of our many humanly sins. Only through the atonment can we reach exaltation!! I believe the words of the Book of Mormon are TRUE and I sustain all the apostles and our respected and wonderful prophet Thomas S. Monson! I love this gospel and I love it's doctrines.

Thank You Sol!

2010-12-16T11:21:00.000-08:00

I owe a lot to my friend Sol. He has always been the first to come to my aid for lots of things namely: when I am hungry (lol), when I am in need of a laugh, when I really want to watch Inception (twice! lol), when I want to re-live an inside joke, when I need a ride home from work b/c it's too dark and scary, and when I really need a friend to talk to. He has been an amazing blessing in my life and I am glad that he is making the decision and is determined to serve a full-time mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Thank You Sol!

Missionary Opportunity

2010-12-12T22:10:00.000-08:00

Day before yesterday (12/10/10) one of my regulars at Starbucks was asking questions about the Mormon church and how we differ from other religions. I started talking about the Plan of Salvation. I explained it as best as I could but I tend to over-explain things. So I asked him (John) if I could bring him an article to read about it. He accepted and was anxious to learn more.

(12/11/10) I had plans to bike to work b/c I had not asked anyone in advance for a ride. Melissa was gone to school. A couple hours later, she came home because she forgot something and asked me if I wanted a ride to work even though I'd be an hour early. I was totally up for that.

Melissa dropped me off and about 20 minutes later, I run into John. I asked him if he wanted a look at the article I had for him, once again he accepted. We sat down as we looked over the article (it got it off of a BYU site). He had so many questions. I asked him if he'd like a Book of Mormon to perhaps answer some questions I might not be able to. He accepted :)

I have not seen him since that day but I know I'll see him soon. I did tell him that my favorite part about being a Latter-Day Saint was the knowledge I have of the Atonement. He also loved the part about the three kingdoms of glory. Hopefully, he will have more questions for me on our next encounter. I am excited to share the gospel with him. If Melissa had not come at the time she did and taken me to work, I know I would have missed him. I know that I could have met up with him another time but maybe this was the best time to see him. I know that the Lord was/is guiding me to this person. We'll see how nest time goes.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MELISSA!!

2010-12-09T08:58:00.000-08:00

A big shout out to my sister Melissa!!!! Happy Birthday Mel! I am so grateful for everything you have done for me! You are a gorgeous, smart, self-sufficient woman, sister, and Mother.

My First Time Through

2010-12-09T08:47:00.001-08:00

This is definitely the time of my life and I think I am doing alright at it. I think I'm doing what I need to be doing and that's preparing to serve a mission. A part of that preparation requires me to take out my endowments at the San Diego Temple. I am so excited for the 14th of January to come because that is the day I will go through. I know I am worthy to enter the temple yet the whole process makes me have so many questions as to what will happen. Probably because I am just so excited! I am so grateful for all the Lord has done for me. These past few months have been rough without a car. And I know he has definitely provided a way for me to get to work and back home safely every time. He has also blessed me with comfort and clarity of mind to get things done. All I have to do is to act on it. Steve has also helped me out so much throughout all of this and I am so grateful to have a brother so helpful and understanding. Steve has been there for me a lot.

Sweet, Splendid Sunday

2010-12-05T19:49:00.000-08:00

My Heavenly Father has so graciously blessed me with such a beautiful day. It might not have looked like such a delightful day outside because of the gloomy clouds and light drizzle, but in my heart and in church, my day was as sunny as a mid-summer afternoon. This was a day especially set aside for me. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect day (even though I had to work in the morning). It was a day I had been praying for: a day absolutely full of the spirit.

Even at work in the morning, I was happy and cheerful despite the schedule mix-up. In a way, even that was a blessing because I got to cover my friend's shift for the morning instead of working the afternoon as was previously scheduled. So, I was able to go to church. Steve picked me up from work and we headed down to our new building on the 79. What a handsome building! Steven and I enter the building and find a seat to sit down. Steve, in front of me next to our mutual friend Becky, and I next to my friend Aaron. It was a very spiritual testimony meeting as I was surrounded by those who care about me and share the same goals and love for the gospel. I listened intently to the testimony bearers as they sacrificed a bit of their personal life to share with others. And I think that's what testimony meeting is about. Sacrifice. Fasting is a sacrifice, yet we endure. Bearing of testimonies is a sacrifice to some b/c it is hard to share personal information and feelings with a large (or small for my branch) audience, yet we do it in hopes to help build other's testimonies. It is a sacrifice to pay tithing and fast offering, yet we give it up to help the church we so love.

Bearing your testimony is not only a personal sacrifice but it is also a service. It is one of those services not many recognize. Hearing testimonies brings the spirit. What better service is there than to bring a loving and true spirit to others? Isn't that the epitome of service anyway?

Break the Fast was just icing on the cake. I has so much fun indulging in a long awaited meal. And it was delicious!! It is so comforting to be around friends that share the same morals and good clean humor as I do. I am so grateful for such a wonderful day and I know I can have more the more I attend church and to soon enter in the Holy Temple in San Diego. I want to go as much as I can before I leave for my mission. I have a feeling I should wait till January to go through the temple. I don't know exactly why but I know that God knows and will help me through every step of the way.

I can't help to think of the topic discussed today in Gospel Doctrine and a couple of scriptures that were read. At first they were really confusing. But the teacher explained their meanings.

Ezekiel 43:7- And he said unto me, Son of man, the place of my throne, and the place of the soles of my feet, where I will dwell in the midst of of the children of Israel for ever, and my holy name, shall the house of Israel no more defile, neither they, nor their kings, by their whoredom, nor by the carcases of their kings in their high places.

This is talking about the temple (place of my throne) and how the Lord's spirit actually dwells in the temple (where I will dwell in the midst of the children of Israel for ever). He is there with you as you participate in the ordinances inside. I will think of this scripture as I enter into the temple.

Also, Ezekiel 47: 3-6 (You can look it up on your own time b/c it is too long to write) The symbology is explained as the more you attend the temple, the more you will know of the gospel and be immersed in it.

Well, I hope your day was as good as mine. I wish my family good health and the best of luck in whatever endeavors are in pursuit.

It's My Turn!

2010-12-02T21:59:00.000-08:00

It's been quite a relaxing week so far and I've gotten a few things taken care of. First off, I now have my big-girl recommend so I am ready to go through the temple as soon as I schedule a time for mom to come down and get a couple days off of work. All of my family is welcome to come and a couple of the women shepherds from my branch have been invited. I am so happy with the way things are just working out right now. My family, you have been such a great support throughout my preparation for my mission. I am so so blessed to have all of you in my life. There is no better time than now to do what I feel I need to do which is serve my mission. I know that I can spread my joy of the gospel with others. I am so anxious to enter the temple because I know that this will be a great stepping stone into my future.

Recent news

2010-11-26T21:54:00.000-08:00

Not much has been going on since I've opened my call. Well, I have had many people congratulate me and tell me all about missions and the such. Its really fun! Hahaha!

Work is fun. We got a new girl in about a couple of weeks ago. She seems really cool and she gave me a ride home from work (she lives really close to me). And we hung out today and she let me dye her hair! Hahaha! It's a really intense red just the way she wanted it. We had lots of fun!

My throat feels like it's swollen on one side. It sounds weird but it really hurts. I tried the whole lemon-honey-hot water thingy but it didn't help. It was just sour. I squeezed the whole lemon in there too! Maybe I did it wrong.

Thanksgiving was a BLAST!! I loved hanging out with Dad, Kathy, John and V's Family, and Melissa and her family. Kathy is a great cook and I just LOVED being over there. Oh, and they did some beautiful remodeling to their condominium! Really nice; it makes the place look bigger.

Oh, and I received a $25 gift card to Joann's and I got a skirt and material to make for my mission. I'm really excited to get started on that too.

IT CAME! IT CAME!!!

2010-11-22T20:56:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's true! My mission call finally came! It was a normal, Friday afternoon and my friend, Lowen dropped me off at home from work. I came home to find Morgan watching tv and Brooke asleep. Since my call was predicted to come the day before (which obviously did not come but I was glad b/c I feel like that day was specially reserved for baby Pierce), I decided to check the mail once again. I grabbed the keys from the garage wall and headed to the silver mailbox. As I struck the key in the lock, I was thinking that this HAD to be the day. Butterflies were swarming in my stomach as I opened the mailbox. THERE IT WAS!!! The long awaited big, white envelope! It was the first thing I grabbed (even though it was under all the other mail). "Sister Ashley Triskaideka Whitman" it read. Never before had my name looked so beautiful in print. (And my middle name was even spelled right!) Immediately, I bolted to the house with a handful of mail repeating "Oh My Gosh! Oh My Gosh! Oh My Gosh!" As I entered the house, I yelled out to Morgan, "Morgan! It's here! I got my mission call!!!" Then I bursted into tears. Morgan screaming, "Yaaaay! Yaaaaay!"

5 O'clock p.m.

Everybody on the phone (3-way is great!) Except for Mom who was working, and Travis who could not be reached. Then my friend Sol to my left and the carters in front of me and the Carlsons to my right. "Kay everyone!!!! I'm opening it!!!!!" I ripped the envelope and removed the papers. As I read aloud the introduction, my heart began to pump harder. Then I read, "...you are assigned to labor in the Boise, Idaho Mission." What??? Are you SERIOUS???? Boise, Idaho??? I feel like the dude on The Singles Ward.

About an hour after the initial shock.....

"WHOOOOO!!!! I'M GONNA SERVE A MISSION!!!! YEAH!!!" I don't care where I'm going anymore! All I care about is that the work and word of the Lord is just as important in Idaho as anywhere in the world. The people of Idaho need me. I am there for them. I love the church and I love where I'm going. I love the gospel and I am so grateful for the sacred Atonement of Jesus Christ.

I haven't been able to write 'till now b/c our internet was down

Not Today

2010-11-18T16:24:00.001-08:00

So, today was supposed to be the expected date that my call was supposed to come. But, it unfortunately did not come. Maybe tomorrow or next Thursday. It'll come. I was so set for it to come today. I even randomly had the day off. But oh well. I've got to learn to be patient with the Lord's timing as Derek said.

My teacher did not show up to class today. That was a bummer. I really needed his help. So I got a ride home. When I got home, I got another ride to the Environmental Health Dept. next to Vons to renew my Food Handlers card. It was $20. $20!!!!! At least I passed. If I didn't get it, I wouldn't have been able to work. It was super easy.

Today was kind of boring. My feet hurt b/c I walked a little over a mile to get to Dick's Sporting Goods to get a head light, a bike lock, and a pump. How do you cure feet blisters on the bottom of your feet? Not that a mile is a long way but I had been walking/biking a lot this week.

Anyways, I'm going to try to work on my paper more. The final draft is due on Tuesday.

Toodles!

The BIG Day... Tomorrow

2010-11-17T21:21:00.000-08:00

OH! MY! GOODNESS! Tomorrow is the BIG DAY! What big day you ask? Well, If you had been keeping up with my blog (or spoken to me in the last three weeks), you would know that tomorrow is the day I am expected to receive my MISSION CALL! WHHOOOO!! YEAH! I wonder where I'll go. I had a dream that I went to Canada. That would be cool. That's where Dad went.

In other, less exciting (yet painful news), my thighs are still on fire. Well, okay, when I'm biking. I'm fine when I'm not biking. But I do really like to bike. I still need to get a headlight for the early mornings where there is no street light to lead the way. And reflectors too. And a lock for when my bike is parked outside. (Usually, I keep the bike in the breakroom at work or in the garage when I'm outside.) Those would be good. Dick's Sporting Goods, herrrre I cooome!!... on my biiiiike!!! Oh, and uphill is the worst... like, EVER. And the uphill incline on Whitewood shall be walked with bike in hand for the rest of whenever I'm less whimpy to do it. Um, and then I saw this man who seemed to be about like, mid-50's who was biking the Whitewood. Just went right past me. Show off. Wonder what he was thinking. I bet it started with, "Kids these days...."

I have a Math final in a couple of weeks. I've one good in class thus far. I think I will do well on the test. But I do still have a few concerns in some areas. Derek Whitman, dear brother, be prepared to answer more math questions as time progresses slowly to the day of the Final Exam. Mmkay? And I'm working on a paper for my English class. This should be the last paper sooo I guess this is the final assignment for English. Can't wait for this semester to be ovah! Once again Derek, be prepared to be hit with a double whammy! Only because you are so talented. Becca has already helped a lot with my content. I am still stuck on a lot.

I was going to go to a movie today with my friend but complications presented themselves as always. So, didn't do that.

Today was an okay day. At first, it was kinda crappy b/c I had to clean big messes made by the closer from the night before after a 45 minute bike ride in the dark. She's new though so she deserves the benefit of the doubt which she will get. She'll get better.

I discovered the show Community... funny as heck show! HAhahaha! I laugh just thinking about it.

Alright, my eyes are droppin' like a falling man without a parachute. So, I got to go.

GOODNIGHT NEVERLAND!!

THE BIKE

2010-11-16T13:44:00.000-08:00

I drove my bike to work today to see how long it would take me to get there (32 mins). It wasn't bad on the way over there. It's mainly a flat-to-downhill ride. Not bad. But, OH. MY. WORD, the ride back KILLED! Seriously, my thighs are in flames! But Mom says I'd get used to it in about three weeks...... oh great. But, I did get there safely and overall, it was pretty nice. I enjoy being outside. Now I have to get some sunblock, tons of water, and a helmet that does not make me look goofy. The voices in my head are already telling me, "Pfft! Yeah, good luck with THAT one." .....Not that I'm Schizo or anything.

Thank you Beth and Mom and Lizzy for reading and commenting on my bloggie. I really appreciate it. It really makes me feel included, special, and happy.

My genealogy paper is coming along. We did a workshop today (group paper critique) and my teacher comes to visit each group. He said mine was doing well, gave me some pointers, and seemed to be happy with what I had so far. So, that's goooood.

And now, my room needs some attention. It's been neglected. So I will go do that and get sumpin' to eat.

Love y'all!

It's All in the Attitude

2010-11-15T22:01:00.000-08:00

Today was a tough one. Though, I do have a lot to appreciate like: it is my friend's birthday today, I got a ride to work and back, got to talk to mom, was very productive on my argument paper, crystal dropped off her beautiful bike for me to use until I get my own bike, and I found out that I have the sunday after next off, and had some delicious chinese food from Peony's. Yay for blessings!!

I say it was only tough because I guess my attitude was out of wack today. (Happens every month... Why oh Why??) But I kept my cool and tried my best from snapping at certain people who got on my nerves. Amazingly, it wasn't the customers. And pulled it off with a fake good attitude... which worked in the end. (Faking it till you make it is worth all the self-control in the end).

I also got to see some sister missionaries!! I swear, I about teared up when I saw them. I'm not kidding. I saw myself instantly in their place when I first glaced at them. I think I scared them though when I came bouncing up exasperating my "HHHHHHHellooooooo Sisters!!!!" They either thought I was a wierd stalker, wierd employee, or must be a weirdo member. It wasn't until I finally said, "Oh ya, I'm a member" when they looked at eachother before letting out a nervous laugh. But I swear, I just wanted to talk to them. I just felt SO much better when I saw them that I almost let it all out. LOL. Yyyyya, aaaanyway, it made my day. I'm glad I got to see them it makes me want to go on a mission even more.

Crystal came to drop off her cute, pink, beach cruiser for me to use until I get a bike of my own. I'm actually super excited for this! This must be a good thing because I was so nervous about it before. Now, I feel like I'm going to be totally fine and I haven't even ridden to work yet! But we'll see how I like it in a few weeks when I have to do it everyday....four miles a day. Let's see if my attitude remains upbeat then.

Reading the scriptures is blessing my life the more I read it. I do have a testimony of the scriptures. I love them. And I'm so grateful that Mom tried her best to help me appreciate them more. I didn't get it until a few years later but, her efforts were well worth it because she is such an influence to me. Love you mom!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO BETH!

Waiting is Tough

2010-11-13T20:24:00.000-08:00

Great, I don't have a car anymore... again. I freaked out at first when Steven said he needed his car back because the Stabile's Explorer's transmission went out. But I prayed and pondered. I think I should bike to work and take the bus to school. I've taken the bus to school before but i've never biked to work. This will be quite an experience. But I'm kind of excited to do it. It'll give a work out and teach me to be frugal. I think this is mission-worthy work. It's going to be scary in the morning. Morning shift starts at 5:45 am. So it's really dark when I leave. That's what I'm really scared about. I do NOT like to be outside in the dark. But this seems to be my best option at the moment. I'm just going to have to deal.

No Mission Papers Yet

2010-11-10T16:36:00.000-08:00

My mission papers are still a no-show. Many of my siblings were expecting it to come today at the latest. But alas, no large white envelope. So, concerned, I called my branch president (who happens to be in Hawaii... Oops!) and asked him if he knew the progress of my paper work. He told me he checked about two days ago and they were still being processed. He was a little disappointed at the delay as well. He also said that I can expect my papers next Thursday. These last two weeks were long and grueling; I guess I can stick it out for another week. This is definitely a test of my patience, which I need. I've been so impatient with the whole process.

Still need to write my argument paper on genealogy. Haven't started it yet.... Sorry Becca.

I went to the temple today with Steven and our friend Vanessa to do baptisms for the dead. Vanessa is a temple worker on Saturdays and was a great help and was so fun to be around. While I was in there, I wasn't conflicted with all my worldly troubles. I was calm. I have been waiting to go to the temple for soooo long. I was so grateful to go with such great people.

Work is work. I'm having to work more sundays through church. But I guess I'm going to have to stick that one out too. I know this is a test for 1. my patience 2. my faith and 3. my anxiety. Not that i have any major anxiety. I just get really upset and anxious when I see my schedule with my sunday full. It is definitely something I need to work on b/c when I get upset like that, my thinking gets exaggerated and blown out of proportion. Not good for a mission. I want to be a good mission companion. I want to be a good worker too. I'm working on it.

Anyways, I'm so grateful for the gospel. These past three weeks have definitely been a test of my faith. I am reading my scriptures everyday and trying to build my testiomony more. I love the scriptures. I love the book of Matthew in the Bible. I am so grateful for Jesus Christ and His Atoning sacrifice.

It's Been a While...

2010-11-07T22:40:00.000-08:00

Woooow! It's been a while. I tend to do that. I'm so inconsistent with just about everything: blogging, homework, visiting teaching, exercising, yada yada yada...

Anyway, my papers have been in for a couple of weeks now and I'm just waiting to get my call in the mail. EEEeeee! So nervous!

My classes are great! My math teacher is insanely crazy/funny/funny looking. Hahaha! but it definitely keeps me entertained. My english teacher is a good teacher (when he's not imposing his atheist beliefs in class... gets a bit annoying). He's a fair grader, and he directs his classes based on the majoity of the classe's issues. This next paper I'm writing for class is an argument paper. Ugh! I hate those! So I decided to stay away from poitics or really controversial subjects like: abortion or gay marriage. I was thinking about Rebecca and had the idea to do my paper on "Why Geneaology is Important". I'm excited to write this paper!

Work has been rough. Not getting as many hours as I had been getting before and I'm working more and more Sundays. Twice through church. It makes me upset and dampens my spirit. I'm trying to be strong and work through this challenge as best as I can. I am reading my scriptures frequently lately and I LOVE IT! My favorite scriptures so far are: D&C 4, and Matt 6:19-21.

But whatever comes my way, I know my Savior lives and hears my prayers. I just have to trust him and be patient to hear his kind and gentle guidance.

Working Hard!!!

2010-02-24T17:43:00.000-08:00

Thank you SO much Dad for helping me out with my paper! I have yet to turn it in but I'll let you know what the results are when i get it back.

I have TWO quizzes on monday: Math and Political Science. But my poli sci teach. has a study guide on blackboard that i can follow. So i'll do that and see how it goes. Anyways, I got a call from my friend, Luis, and he's doing a report on the LDS religion for school and I'm the only LDS person he knows. So he asked me if he can attend church w/ me on sunday and then institute on Thursday. Soooo.... THAT'S a missionary experience waiting to happen! LOL. Let's see how that goes. I think it'll give me some missionary practice.
I'm doing well in school, taking a lot of notes and doing all of my homework and working hard at starbucks.

Smiles Are Back!!

2010-02-22T22:06:00.000-08:00

These past few days have been pretty good! Less grumpiness! LOL! lately, i had been going through this self-pity round and i wasn't getting anywhere but down. But i soon came to realize that i really dont have that much to complain about. I have a great family, an awesome sister to live with (and neices and nephew), and motimportantly im a member of the one true church upon the earth. I have everything i need here for me. Also, i have the opportunity to go to school and get closer to my goals.
Also, i got to see and hold Jayden!!! He was only 4 hrs old when i got to hold him! i felt so privileged to have this perfect spirit in my arms! He is so precious and i'm sure he's going to be just as much of a ham as his big brother Tysen! lol! I showed ALL of my friends the pictures of Jayden i took on my phone everybody thought he was the sweetest looking thing! Anyways, i'm going to go and sleep now. Good Night!!!

YAY FOR EMILY!!!

2010-02-14T22:10:00.000-08:00

Once again.... another grumpy sunday morning. lol. i've got to stop that habit. it always is when im working sunday mornings before church. but aside from that, my day turned out to be really great! i was sitting in sacrament meeting this afternoon and Emily Armstrong waltzes in!!!! i flipped out! i was so excited it was hard to contain my girlish squealing. after sacrament, we laughed and hugged, and chatted our ears off. I was s0o happy to see her!!!! Also, what made my day even more special was when steven gave me a boquet of.... carnations. lol. there WAS a rose in there. hmmmm.... wonder what he did with that! lol. I absolutely loved it tho. i was so happy that my brother was thinking of me on valentines day! In any case, i even talked to my buddy trevor today (the guy i went on a date with in utah) and i had a lt of fun talking to him. im pretty comfortable talking to him as a friend. for some reason, that was just one more highlight of my day. i think after emily surprised me at church, everything started to get better. Well, im getting sleepy now and my sentences arent making muh sense... im kinda scatterbrained right now. this means its time for me to recharge and get some sleep. Love y'all! Happy Valentines day!

The Flora Department

2010-02-11T22:15:00.000-08:00

oh my goodness, oh my goodness!! we were BUSY today. Not with customers, with preparing for Valentines day! Thats all that we have been doing lately at work which causes it to be on my mind a lot wheather i want it to be or not. And thats kind of depressing cuz i dont even have a date... nothing to look forward to lol. But who needs a date anyway??? p.s. it'll be sunday.... going to church in pink or red or both is what i have to look forward to lol. So i' still working on my project and its due on the 17th. its hard writing about myself. Its coming out slowly but surely. anyways, im getting tired. love y'all!

I love seeing celebrity look-a-likes!

2010-02-11T00:00:00.000-08:00

Today was a very interesting day. I ran into like three ppl i know... all in a row. lol. First it was my friend Xander, then my friend/ co-worker Lowen, and then Steve. I thought it was pretty funny because i've never really run into anybody at school before. Anyways, i had fun in my communications class, we learned about stereotypes and different perspectives. OH! and there's this guy in my class who looks A LOT like Johnathan Rhys-Meyers. If you dont know who that is, look it up. And it so happens that we went to the same elementary school in horsethief canyon around the same time. But i don't remember him from there tho. His name is Mike. But ya, i'm still working in floral. im not really sure if i like it a whole lot. i dont really get a whole lot of direction there so i feel lost and i dont really know how to answer customers questions. I HATE that feeling! my comfort bubble is in the coffee kiosk.

But its late so im going to go to bed now! NIGHT!!!

From Bad to Good

2010-02-07T19:30:00.000-08:00

UGHHHH!!!! i feel so exhausted and mentally drained! Working in the floral dept takes a lot of creativity and multitasking. The coffee kiosk does too but it's a different ind of multitasking. i guess its because i havent worked in floral a whole lot. Valentines day is going to be sooo crazy! i cant wait for it to be over! Who needs a stinking date? the only date i want is with my pillow. i just want to sleep the whole day.... after church lol. which is what i'll probably do. I really havent had one day just OFF. its either: work all day, school all day, study/work all day, or church all day. (not that i'm complaining about church). I was in such a bad mood this morning from all the lack of contact w/ my friends, work, and school work (poor customers) that by the time i got to church i was about to burst to tears. i didn't have a legitimate reason why... i was just tired (and yes, i know this is going to happen for the next 18 weeks and it's only going to get harder). but i was sitting in the pews listening to bro kim give his testimony and the spirit hit me so strong! i HAD to get up and bear my testimony. After that, i was HAPPY! And i was GRATEFUL! and i was feeling less sorry for myself, and more willing to hear others. it's amazing what bearing your testimony can do. I bore my testimony on the priesthood. i said i was so grateful that it is within reach if i just ask. and that i was also so grateful for the great big family i have. Anyways, i thought i'd share that with all of you because i miss you all and i know you are all concerned about me because you love me! and i'm so grateful for that.

Work and School

2010-02-05T22:29:00.000-08:00

So two weeks of school has gone by and already im exhausted. Its probly cuz im working 34-36 hrs at work lately. I'll be working like crazy especially because Valentines Day is coming up. I've been asked to work in the floral dept. because Sandra (the floral manager) thinks i'm really creative and she really needs my help. It was also a plus when she found out that i knew how to do floral bows (thanks to mom teaching me....and everyone who got married). I told her all about how I used to help mom out with the weddings and that i do have a little experience. She had me do a bunch of arrangements last year and she thinks i'm awesome. but i'm only helping out for the weekend. i dont think i'd ever transfer over there. i wouldnt get paid as much and there arent very many hours. but it would be fun.

Anyways, about school.... i think i'm doing great! my study habits are improving. i still kinda nod off a little when i'm reading my poli-sci book lol. but its all very interesting. im still having trouble understanding political science. that's my hardest class. so if anyone is willing for me to call them to ask random questions about the government, please let me know. lol. I also have a project due on the 17th for my communications class and it has to be about me. So me and my manager came up with two different (but similar) metaphors about my aspirations, past, and current happenings. i'm excited to do it. And she's excited too lol. but i have to construct it. And it has to do w/ a vase so i bought a cheap one and then i accidentally broke right before i got home :( but if you want to know more about it or would like to add your input, please call me or leave a mssge if i dont answer so i can call you back.
I love you all! time for me to go to sleep!

2010-01-20T19:42:00.000-08:00

It's been waaaaaay too long. I have now decided to go on a mission. That is my goal. It is what I want to do. It's been hard to save money for it lately because I have been paying for classes and books. I will be attending MSJC on the 25th of this month. I still am on the waiting list for my math class though. I used to be #8 out of 10 but I've been bumped up to #4. And it's been at four for the past week and a half. (grr). So i still have to pay about $160 more. I am really determined to do better in these classes than i ever have. i am going to try to discipline myself to study harder and be less distracted. i have no other choice if i want to be a self suffcient woman. i really look up to my sisters and appreciate all they have one for me. i aspire to be like them.

Lil' Update :)

2009-04-08T10:37:00.000-07:00

So, ya, it's been a while since I've written on here. I now work at Starbucks (for those of you who don't already know). And have fun w/ my friends at church... I'm always looking forward to FHE. Our latest activity was playing Dodgeball/ human fooseball. SO FUN! I have more to write about but, that I'll save for a whole new blog. Because it's kind of a lot. Well, I'm off to work now! I'll update when I get home (possibly) LOL. Bye!

Sunday Bliss

2009-01-19T10:04:00.000-08:00

Derek, Emily, and Maria invited everybody to join them for a get together once a month on a sunday. We had ice cream, bread pudding, and cake to eat. Then We played Last Word (I didn't realize how competitive Crystal, Steve, and Derek can be... SHEESH!) and naturally, Derek won. We also had fun playing pool and indulging in vanilla cream soda. Thank you Derek, Emily and Maria!!

Aunty Bubba and Ty-man

2009-01-05T10:25:00.000-08:00

I love being an aunty! I have too much fun playing with Ty-ty. And Ty loves the camera... so I can't help taking pictures of him.

New Years!!!

2009-01-04T12:23:00.000-08:00

My friends and I went to San Diego and had a New Years Eve dance there With all LDS young single adults. It was the most fun I'd ever had on New Years. It was fun just being with friends. I also got a New years hug instead of a kiss (thank goodness...because it was from a random guy. haha).
Me and kelly jo^
Bekah, Tara, Me, and Ashley^

Me and Bekah^

Jeff, Me, and Kristen^

Good Job???

2008-11-20T15:08:00.000-08:00

Lately, I’ve been getting a lot of praise at work for the amount of “dedication” I’m putting into it. (Apparently??) I guess compared with all the other girls, I’m quite the workaholic. Well, really AM the perfect employee…. I’m a fast learner, I never make the same mistake after the third time, I get along with almost everyone, I know where almost everything goes, I know how to get what I need sometimes, and don’t need a whole lot of supervision. Well, okay…. ALMOST the perfect employee. I still hate going to work though. In any case, not much else is happening. Except for mom trying to set me up with this RM in Utah. But ya, other than that... nothing. Anyways, love y’all!!

Oh and John Stabile's mom was down and we celebrated her birthday yesterday at Olive Garden... So fun!

I got Tagged by Heather.

2008-10-21T12:15:00.000-07:00

Um ya, Heather tagged me on the 11th (and i didn't see it til now). This is the pic i brought up. I was taking pics of myself with my then-new camera for myspace. this is my favorite i think. Now i have to tag others.... I piiiiiiick.....

Beth
Crystal
Cece
Lizzy Whitman

Kay, now you guys have to go into your fourth file and pic the fourth pic. and then say something about it and then pick four other people to do it. it's fun!

2008-10-21T11:35:00.000-07:00

I'm pretty comfortable with where I am right now. I love staying at Crystal and Dan's. I know this is where I need to be for now. I am saving up a lot of money with the help of Dan and Crystal's budgeting plan. I've saved up more than I ever have! I love to save my money now. When it goes into the savings... it never comes out! I know that if I stick to this saving habit I will be able to pay off my car and student loans.

I am doing really well at work. My manager has pretty much set me as the closer at work almost every night. Everyone tells me how well I do. They don't have to do as much work in the morning because I do such a good job cleaning up at night. I still don't like work but, I feel better about doing it now. LOL. I was able to get Sundays off and Monday nights to attend church and FHE. My manager said she'd just give me sunday nights off because I'm available any other time of the week. I love going to FHE and hanging out with my friends and seeing everyone at church. Anyways, I just thought I'd give everyone an update. Love you all!

YES ON 8!!!

2008-10-15T13:28:00.000-07:00

I got this email from one of the wonderful women in my ward, Sister Smith. This explains my feelings on Prop 8 better than I could... Take a look...

Yes on Proposition 8: California Protect Marriage Constitutional Amendment by Rich Deem

Introduction
On November 4, 2008, Californians will vote on Proposition 8, the Protect Marriage Constitutional Amendment. In March, 2000, California voters overwhelmingly approved Proposition 22, which stated, "Only marriage between a man and a woman is valid or recognized in California." However, the California State Supreme Court declared Proposition 22 unconstitutional by a 4-3 vote on May 15, 2008. Proposition 8 restores the exact wording of Proposition 22 to the California state constitution reversing the activist decision of those four California Supreme Court judges.
Marriage is not a right!
Contrary to the claims of the anti-prop 8 forces, marriage is not a right. Marriage is a responsibility and a legally-binding contract intended to stabilize families with children.
Marriage has always been restricted
Numerous laws exist that restrict the ability of certain people to enter into a marriage contract. First, marriage is only allowed between adults, not minors. Second, marriage is only allowed between two individuals. Multiple partner marriages (polygamy and polyandry) are not legal. Third, marriage is not allowed between closely related individuals (brothers, sisters, and first cousins). If marriage is declared a fundamental right of all individuals, then all restrictions to marriage would be declared unconstitutional, opening the doors to polygamy, polyandry, incest, and child marriage.
Marriage is for procreation, not recreation
The reason why marriage is already restricted only to unrelated adult males and females is because the marriage contract is designed to stabilize a family so that children can be born and raised by a male and female parent. Marriage is all about procreation and not recreation. Individuals, whether they be heterosexual or homosexual, are perfectly capable to showing love towards others without entering into a lifelong marriage contract.

Prop 8 does not limit gay rights
Proposition 8 does not take away legal rights from anybody. Any two individuals in the state of California may enter into a domestic partnership, which, by statute, grants them all legal rights and responsibilities of married individuals (Family Code 297.5).
A "right" of gay marriage will restrict the rights of others
Where gay marriage has already been enacted, the rights of others have been abridged. Here are some examples:
In February, 2007, the judge in a Massachusetts case ordered the teaching of the homosexual lifestyle to children in public schools.5
In March 2007 freshmen were told not to tell their parents about Deerfield, Illinois High School's pro-gay seminar and were required to sign a confidentiality agreement.3
In March 2007, a Massachusetts high school banned parents from attending a seminar for students on how they can know they are homosexual.4
In February 2008, a professor was fired from San Jose Evergreen Community College after being accused of providing an "offensive" answer out of the textbook to a student's question about heredity and homosexual behavior.2
In April, 2008, an Albuquerque photographer was fined over $6,000 for refusing to be hired to photograph a lesbian couple’s commitment ceremony.7
In May, 2008, a black administrator was fired from the University of Toledo, Ohio, for writing an editorial objecting to the comparison of black discrimination to same-sex marriage.1
In September, 2008, the California Supreme Court ruled that California doctors who have religious objections to artificially inseminating same-sex couples can no longer refuse to treat them.6
In September, 2008, A Placer County couple's marriage license was denied because they had written the words "bride" and "groom" next to "Party A" and "Party B".8

Conclusion
Proposition 8 is not about rights, but is about protecting marriage and families against the destruction of traditional marriage through the actions of four activist judges. If the institution of marriage is declared a right for all individuals then any laws that restrict that right will be declared unconstitutional, requiring that polygamy, polyandry and incestuous marriage be made legal. Vote YES on Proposition 8.

2008-10-12T00:35:00.000-07:00

As you all know, yesterday was my 19th birthday. I had so much fun hanging out with Melissa and Emily at the mall in the morning. I think my favorite thing to do is just hang out with my family. Just hang out and talk... doesn't have to be anywhere special... home is fine (or the mall, lol). Thank you Melissa for offering to buy me clothes, that was so generous of you. After the mall, I went to work from about 3pm-8pm. It was actually a treat closing the deli with Nick. (I usually close by myself.) The both of us didn't have to do as much work as we would normally do because we were both there. And then Nick bought me some Smart Water, lol. After work I came home to find my room cleaned (courtesy of Crystal) and Dan ordering pizza. Crystal was out looking for a movie, a cke, martinelli, popcorn, cotton candy, and a princess crown for me. She came home with Leatherheads (so funny) and then we ate cake and pizza. I am so grateful to Dan and Crystal for thier thoughtfulness and support. I love You ALL!

Thank You SOOO Much!!!

2008-10-09T22:04:00.000-07:00

I love my family so much! thank you Melissa and David for throwing me a cute little birthday party in your new home! I had so much fun just being with family. I'm so glad that Derek and Emily and Dan and Crystal could be there for me. I am SO wearing that dress on sunday! and the apple lotion too. lol. Toward the end i might've seemed a little distant because i was trying to hold back tears. Because i was so glad that everyone was thinking of me and wanted to give me a little party before my birthday because i will be busy working tomorrow. and thank you crystal for wanting to throw a little party for me consisting of my friends and stuff. You are so thoughtful and creative. I know you guys probably won't come across this blog but, i really needed to get it out there. i'm grateful.... so that's what i'm blogging about. I really coudn't have gotten through this step in my life without my brothers and sisters. Just being here helped me find my Heavenly Father and my testimony. I can trust in him and I know he is there. i've never felt that before, i don't know why i hadn't. I know that i really have been missing out.

I don't think I'm going to be able to take it for very long....

2008-10-02T07:54:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was supposed to be my day off and I was really looking forward to it. But, depressingly, my manager managed to screw up someone's schedule and I had to cover it. In any case, when I got there, there were customers waiting and the place was a mess!!! UGH!!! Crumbs were everywhere, trash was spilling over, and dishes were everywhere but in the sink. My manager left it... she didn't even offer to help. I had to take care of impatient customers and clean up what my "manager" left plus... my own cleaning and closing schedule. What a thanks for having me come in last minute!

But she did give me the weekend off... for next week because i worked so much overtime a couple weeks before. so, i'm grateful for that. she'll probably call me in though. next week is my birthday so i'm inviting a bunch of people from my branch for a pool party at crystal's house. It's going to be awesome!

well, that is pretty much what i've been up to. love ya'all!!

Work, Work, Work!

2008-09-19T22:50:00.000-07:00

So, lately, I've been debating whether I should go back to Utah or not. Then I talked to Crystal and decided that I should just wait until I get an answer back from Scott's work and see from there. It's been a tough journey since I decided to move out of Mom's house. There's been a lot of mental and physical exhaustion I've experiened in the independent world. I guess that's what life is.

I am currently working at Vons in Murietta. They are giving me a lot of hours. I also am putting a good amount of overtime in as well. I get paid time and a half for overtime. It's tiring but it pays off at the end of the week. I kinda like to work there when I'm with the right people. Like Katie, Vilma, and Nick. LOL, Nick always puts a smile on my face. We pick on eachother a lot and are always laughing. But, you know, I do get those bad days when I am alone or when Jason (at Starbucks) is working. Ya, he can slap the smile off of your face the moment he walks through those automatic doors. (Jerk). He'll come into the deli just to make fun of me. And he'll come and tell my customers that I'm a recovering alcoholic. (I dunno what goes through that microscopic brain of his... if he even has one... I'm not sure.) I don't care if he meant it as a harmless joke... I wasn't laughing.

In any case, that's what i've been up to. Love, ash.

Well HEY!!!

2008-07-27T10:57:00.001-07:00

Here's my blog... cant wait to fill it up!