Simply Elizabeth . . .

So grateful for so many things

2012-02-29T23:19:00.002-08:00

for every breath I take [for crazy bouts of laughter] For the knowledge that families are forever //for fabulous friends// for tears of joy {for waking up in the morning with crazy bed head and making myself smile at my own reflection} for the Messiah :for a nutella free diet: for ZUMBA!
For Wednesday night churchball conversations (For choir practice) for family for The Book of Mormon *for little kid sense of humor* for text messages on boring days |for my puppy dogs| for moviiiiie night

I guess, what I'm trying to say is I'm just grateful for life.

I adore you all :)

Eliiii

Being Latina...

2012-02-23T20:22:00.004-08:00

Growing up in a culture rich home has been one of the biggest blessings I have received from my Heavenly Father. I love everything about being Latina! I love the food, the dancing, the loud conversations, how easy it is to make friends, the hilarious expressions that simply can't be translated to English, the wacky old wives tales and most of all, I love the people.

I don't know how to explain it to someone that hasn't grown up surrounded by this, but you know the expression, "It takes a village to raise a child?" Well that's kind of what it's like. A huge village of loud, bossy, funny people! Some of them are blood related, but many of them aren't, and yet they still feel like family. More specifically, I have an amazing ward filled with hard working, caring, compassionate, hilarious, and friendly individuals. I am most grateful for them! I love going to church and feeling like I'm home. I thank them for that :)

But being Latina also carries certain responsibilities as well. Specifically, I feel a deep responsibility for representing my community in the best way and not conforming to untrue stereotypes. I hope to portray the best my culture has to offer: trust, commitment and loyalty, a strong understanding of the word family , an unbelievably strong work ethic, and a complete understanding of how to have fun.

And so, because a lot of people don't know I am Hispanic (since I'm a white girl with green eyes haha) I decided to let everyone know just a little bit more about me and where I come from :)

Love you all,
Ellie

Valentines Day

2012-02-14T10:29:00.001-08:00

Valentines day just reminds me of the major LOSER sign I have painted on my forehead. It's invisible to most people except for certain guys who prey on innocent LOSER girls like me.
True story.

On the other hand, my institute teacher told me I am gorgeous today (no, not in a gross, pedophile kind of way people!) and it just made me feel happy. Granted, the guy is super old and probably thinks all girls my age are cute, we are like toddlers in comparison to him. Toddlers are always cute, even when they're not.

Moving on.

I have a hot date tonight.

With Tania Mancilla.

My best friend forever.

We are going to watch The Vow, it will be the best date ever. Guaranteed. I will even buy her popcorn, I love her that much.

Oh the joys of valentines day.

love,
Eli

Courage.

2012-02-12T23:23:00.000-08:00

It takes a lot of courage for me to be vulnerable, to show others how I really feel. I am not always happy, I'm not always sad. Sometimes, I feel both at the same time. Lately, I have just been telling myself that I am being dramatic, which is just another way of invalidating how I really feel. But this has been going on for a while, and I am tired of pretending, so here goes nothing:

Material things will never fill you, I have learned this since my last post. Things are nice to have, but at the end of the day, they don't really matter. It's all about the moments in life; the good ones and the bad ones.

This has been the theme of this Sunday: Opposition in all things. I understand. I know that every moment of weakness, every moment of hurt, ever single tear, has to be felt so that I can understand what true joy is. I have felt it, it's wonderful.

But I also feel it's opposite, and those moments are the toughest.

I hear the Lord's promise that things will get better. I know this is a growing moment. I know that it is temporary and what seems like a long time is a second in the eternities.

I asked my Dad to give me a blessing and I was blessed with many promises: to have peace in my heart and mind, to study the scriptures for answers, to allow myself to be guided from the spirit, to have a productive week despite my struggles.

I trust in my Savior. I am grateful for his love and sacrifice. I know that I am never alone, I am thankful for His guidance.

And I know the journey is long. I know I have a long way to go. Healing takes time, it is a process, but it is also empowering to know that you have recovered.

I am not there yet, but I am working on it.

<3
Eli

Blowing Budgets.

2012-02-12T08:27:00.000-08:00

I thought I was good at saving money, and then all of a sudden, I saw them: the most adorable boots I had ever seen in my life. 100% leather, designer, and only $50!!! I mean HELLO. Of course I purchased them! I have been looking for boots all winter, and these were the prettiest ones I had ever seen.

But the problem is that once you get started....it's super hard to stop.

So when I went to Old Navy, (kicking and screaming, mind you) I was shocked to find so many adorable items on sale! What could I do? I had to have them! I haven't been shopping in forever!

So I bought this dress:

(wearing this dress right this very moment!!!)

And this one:

And this adorable top:

(not a very good picture, but you have to trust me: it's super cute!)

Oh, and PLEASE. Let's not forget about the boots:

(I'm in love :)

Yes, I am a shopaholic. I spent $80 yesterday and I don't even feel guilty.

Oh well, at least I look cute.

Peace.
Eliiiii

All I Want....

2012-02-12T00:17:00.001-08:00

is this cute little tea-cup pig. I mean, who could resist this little cutie? Certainly not me!

Resilience

2012-02-08T18:45:00.000-08:00

I realized something today:

I am a complainer. I am so set on seeing all the bad in the world that I forget to look at the good, to look at the bountiful blessings that surround me...I have so much to be grateful for!

I recognize I wont be happy all the time, and there is nothing wrong with that. Nonetheless, there is so much I can do to change whatever is wrong in my life.

The words of the poem titled Invictus keep echoing in my mind...

I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.

So, today I am making a vow:

To love myself completely,
To accept my weakness and embrace my strengths,
To laugh at my ridiculousness and (frequent) embarrassments,
To encourage and love others,
To be as productive as I can possibly be (not just academically, but socially as well)
To meet someone new every day,
To care more about what I think about myself than the opinions of others,

I promise myself that I can do this. I am strong, I have an unconquerable soul, and with the help of my Heavenly Father, I can be resilient.

What difficulties do you have in life? What would you like to change?

xoxoxoxo
Eli

One of Those Days...

2012-02-07T18:56:00.000-08:00

When everything just feels heavier.
When nothing seems to be going in the right direction.

It's one of those days.

All I wanted to do when I got home from school was get in my ugliest, most comfortable pajamas and cuddle under a warm blanket.

Maybe I'll even watch a Walk to Remember, so I can cry like a baby.

Because it is just one of those days.

It's just bleh.

Eli

Embarassing Crushes UPDATE

2012-02-05T15:49:00.000-08:00

Ok, so last time I created my list, I couldn't remember all of my wacky crushes. As the days have progressed, however, I have realized a few more.....

Eugene
from tangled, my ultimate favorite Disney movie of all time! Is it weird that I am a 20 year old girl with an obsession with princesses? Don't answer that.....

Rafael Nadal
Why? because he is a CHAMPION! duh! And probably because of his mega hottie Spanish accent.

Imran Khan

I've been watching a lot of cheesy rom-com bollywood movies. He's in my two favorite, so of course I am in love with him! He's super romantic. and cute. and i'm done.

You know what I love?

2012-02-04T16:45:00.000-08:00

It's true. I love that you are reading my blog! I love that you are my friend (unless I don't know you, in which case, WELCOME TO MY BLOG :) I love that you put up with my meanie sarcastic sense of "humor." I love that you are probably making fun of my hair in this picture (pretty crazy!) or making fun of the fact that I am wearing glasses indoors because I didn't notice I was still wearing them until I took this picture! I love everyone that went dancing with me last night. I love everyone that makes fun of me and keeps me humble (you know who you are hint hint YSA) I love love. I love life. I'm just happy :) like a clam :)

Ok. You get the point!
peace out lovers!
Ellllllllli.

Random Post from a Random Girl

2012-01-31T10:46:00.001-08:00

Fish lips. I'm like the guy on Glee.

auto correct....priceless!

My crush on Mr. Darcy is getting old, but I can't help myself!

I love you like a love song baby, and i keep hittin repepepepepeat. (Yes, I did just quote Selena Gomez ;)
-Eliiiiiiiiii

Happy Birthday tooooo Me :)

2012-01-28T21:37:00.001-08:00

Why the shocked face?

Very shocking, indeed.

I think of all the things I've lived through, both good and bad...
my Dad being baptized,
my family being sealed in the temple for time and all eternity,
September 11, 2001
moving to Utah,
the birth of my first nephew, and all the other babies that have blessed my life since then,
middle school
PMS (yikes)
IB PROGRAM (and getting the DIPLOMA...still a high light of my life)
SOMOS scholarship
first year of college
gaining a [real] testimony
going to Europe,
Papa Roy's passing....

All these things, and so many, many more.

Today, I have lived exactly 2o full years.

There have been times were I have been super bummed. Mornings that I literally had no motivation to get out of bed.

But MOSTLY, my life has been JOY.

I'd like to think I've spent most of my life smiling. I do have SO MUCH to smile about.

With friends like these, who wouldn't smile??? and new friends too...

This girl is amazing. Do you know, I was praying to have a friend my age in the ward, and Heavenly Father sent me you??? It's true.

How about FAMILY??? I have a pretty great one.

We may be a little dysfunctional, but we LOVE each other.

FACT: I feel JOY.

And yes, some days I feel a little more like this...
because I don't know exactly where the heck I'm going right now. Majors? Who knows! Boyfriend?...HAHAHAHAHAHAHA! Or how about the fact that I have to teach a Sunday class tomorrow and I have NO IDEA what to do???

Oh, Brother.

But for the moooooost part, my life is pretty good. I am a happy camper :)

I thought being half-way to forty wouldn't feel so great, but DANG. I feel a-MAY-zing.

I love you all with every fiber of my being and my whole entire heart! Thank you for the birthday wishes and kind messages on fb :)

<3 Ellllli

New Interest? Pinterest!

2012-01-26T20:08:00.000-08:00

I'm obsessed. 100% obsessed. Ever since my dear friend Loira introduced me to the wonders of this website, I have not stopped looking at at!!! Worst thing? I'm planning my non existent wedding. It's really ridiculous. I mean, I have a folder with about 100 pictures of wedding cakes, flower arrangements, wedding dresses, engagement rings (DIAMONDS!) and invitation ideas. It's pathetic. I don't even want to get married any time soon!!! Why are we girls like this??? What is it with us and our dream wedding??? Is it a Disney princess complex? I don't know. All I know is that I can't wait to see how my wedding turns out...in 5 years (hopefully).

Here are some of my fav pics.I need to have an outdoor wedding. I NEED to. Isn't this setting beautiful? My sister says it's way to expensive, so it will probably never happen...but it's fun to just dream!

I love this ring!!! I have a thing for the 1920's ring designs, especially the oval cut diamonds. I don't know if I will do something exactly like this, but I will definitely h.ave that cut. (No, my husband will not be choosing my ring! I'm that much of a meanie.)

I love these cuff links for my Daddy!!! I would love for him to wear something like this on my big day :)

I love these simple bouquets for my bridesmaids. I think they are beautiful and classy for an outdoor wedding. But if I do something like this, my wedding has to look super classy, I don't want people thinking I'm cheap!

ANYWAY. Wedding's aren't the only great things about pinterest. I also love the home decor ideas. I want to do some changes in my room, and these are some of my ideas...

I love this desk! It totally goes with the soft Victorian style of my room. The desk I have now is fugly. It must be replaced.

Isn't this a fab idea for a bookshelf? It has tons of room for books but it takes up so little space! This is exactly what I need!

This seems like such a great idea for organizing my desk area!!! and it's cute! I wonder if I could make it myself....

So yes. I'm a totally pathetic chick. It's official. All I can think about these days is weddings and decoration. All those years of being a feminist have all of a sudden been tossed out the window. Pishaw.

Los adoro!

Eli

A Good Place

2012-01-24T20:23:00.000-08:00

I'm in a good place right now. I really, really am. Mostly, I feel it's because of the gospel. I love my ward, I love the people in my ward, I love the messages I hear ever Sunday, and i absolutely LOVE the Book of Mormon.

But I remember when I wasn't feeling this joy, when I was really alone and frustrated with the way my life was going. When I couldn't feel the Holy Ghost because I wasn't doing anything to be worthy of it. I remember those feelings, and when I read back to some of the blog posts I had earlier in 2011, they really reflected those feelings. There was such a major gap of time where I couldn't even blog because I had nothing good to say.

I am so grateful to be in a different place now. I am grateful to know that Heavenly Father will always be there for me and is rooting for me on the other side. I am grateful for the friends that stick by me, even when their own lives are difficult. And I feel joy.

Modest is Hottest.

2012-01-23T22:36:00.001-08:00

Found this on fb. Had to share it with the world because it is SO TRUE!

:)
Elizabeth

Un Domingo, Muchos Pensamientos…

2012-01-22T13:54:00.001-08:00

So first, I want to apologize. I can be so mean, impatient, judgmental, stubborn and proud. I'm sorry if I've ever hurt your feelings, snapped at you, or ever made you feel less than what you are worth. I am so grateful for those of you that have stuck by me through the years. I am grateful for the new friends I have made, the ones that are getting to know me and giving me a chance.

I want to let everyone know that I am trying to be better. I know I get frustrated when someone doesn't agree with me or contradicts me. I know I can be quick to judge, or more often than not, give unsolicited advice (my greatest folly, I'll admit.) I am sorry I get angry when you don't take the aforementioned advice. I am sorry!

Part of this great sojourn is to admit that we don't always have the answers, to be humble and admit that we aren't perfect. The closer I get to the Lord, the more I realize that I am most definitely not perfect. Isn't that ironic? That doing better only makes you feel guiltier because you are more aware of your weaknesses? Boy, it's quite the roller coaster! But more importantly, it inspires me to be better and to do better.

On that note, I always like to share an inspirational quote:

I love you all! Remember to be true to yourselves and always strive to do better!

kisskisshughughug :)
Ellyyyyyyyy

The Gospel is True.

2012-01-19T22:56:00.000-08:00

What more can I say? IT'S TRUE! The Book of Mormon? TRUE. Joseph Smith? PROPHET. Jesus Christ? SAVIOR.

And everyday, we are being watched over. Everyday, our Heavenly Father is taking care of us. EVERY SINGLE DAY. I am so BLESSED!

I love you all!
Eli

Quirks.

2012-01-16T11:24:00.000-08:00

I love flowery things. Like all things flower. Like old lady status. FLOWERS.
I love Mr. Darcy. He is my imaginary husband. (but everyone should know this by now.)
I sing at the top of my lungs, like I'm auditioning for American Idol.
Taylor Swift is my imaginary BFF. We are so tiiiiight.
I love to shake my booty. I do it all the time, especially when I'm alone.
I'm pretty sure I have crush on Nephi, but that's a story for another day.
Zumba makes me feel like I am a fabulous dancer. It's like my dance company dreams come true. Except for I suck. but still, I can pretend, can't I?
I'm a control freak. Don't touch that. stop making that face. Will you please wipe your mouth. Don't slurp. I said DON'T SLURP. I SAID DON'T SLURP!!! You get the picture.
I don't like being touched by random people. It freaks me out. That might be because of my control freakishness too, though.
I loooooove books. They are so much better than real life. I wish I could live in a Dystopian novel and be the heroine and save the world and marry the cutest/nicest guy ever. siiiiigh.
I love fictional bad boys. Real life bad boys are a just a waste of time and bad judgement.

Yup. I'm a quirky person. What are your quirks?

Embarassing Crushes

2012-01-10T15:01:00.000-08:00

My BFF Leslie has requested that I make a list of embarrassing crushes (as if embarrassing myself in public isn't enough....now I have to do it via the internet too!!! haha).

Let's start off with one that EVERYONE knows about me...Mr. Darcy!!!!!!!!! ( I am swooning as I write this!)
I have been known to rant about Mr. Darcy before, but I can't help it because I am deeply in love with him. I want to marry him. I want to be Elizabeth Darcy. I am a FREAK.

PFFFFT....forget Harry Potter! I'll have me some Draco Malfoy. He's so evil, it's HOTTT.

Ewwwwwwwwwwww...I'm so gross!!! I can't believe I am admitting to my crush of Captain Jack Sparrow....No, not Johny Depp (that would be obvious, the guy's a hottie for an old guy!), CAPTAIN JACK SPARROW! The PIRATE. The one that NEVER showers and has GOLD TEETH. The alcoholic! For shame.

This guy from the Breakfast Club. Don't quite know why. He's kind of a meanie.

hhhhhmmmmmmmmmmm, I'm noticing a pattern here, almost all the guys on this list are bad boys. Uh oh. I have a problem.
The Notebook. Need I say more???

THE PROPOSAL IS SO FUNNY. I am in love with his character. I would pretend marry him too if I had the chance.

Once upon a time, I watched anime. Once upon a time, I watched Drag0n Ball Z. Once upon a time, I would day dream about marrying Vageta. Yes, It's true, once upon a time, I was in love with a cartoon. I'll go crawl under a rock and die now.

So now everyone knows my deepest darkest secrets. Some aren't so embarrassing. Others, well, I would have preferred not to have been peer pressured into admitting (cough cough Tania cough cough Leslie.)

Alas, this is my list of embarrassing crushes. I hope you all enjoyed my mortifying list.

Peace out, lovers.

Feeling Complete.

2012-01-09T22:14:00.000-08:00

I don't pretend to have all the answers. Sure, I'm opinionated, but really I don't know all that much. But I do know this:
We are children of a Heavenly Father, who loves and treasures us! The Messiah died for our sins so that we can return to our loving Father and so that we can live through all eternity with our family and those we love. I know the Book of Mormon is true, I know that it was written for our times so that we can learn the fullness of the gospel. The joy and peace it has brought me is impossible to put into words. If you've read it consistently, you know what I mean. If you haven't...well you have nothing to lose! It is truly the most life changing thing I have ever experienced!Christ is always on the other side of our doors knocking...we just have to let him in.

OH JOY! What a fantastic day! I love life! I love the opportunity to LIVE! To fall and to get back up again, to learn from those failures and do BETTER! Isn't it wonderful to know that we are being watched over? Even when we feel so completely alone? How wonderful it is to know that we are NEVER alone!

I feel full, complete! This feeling might not last forever, but for right now, it's completely perfect! I never understood before the joy that we will feel in Heaven, but if it's anything like this, I hope I make it in!

I love you all!
Ely

How to Make Ceviche.

2012-01-07T13:21:00.000-08:00

I love fish. It's delicious, especially when its raw (SUSHI!) so it should come to no surprise that I absolutely love Ceviche. It is originally a Peruvian dish, although almost every Latin American country has there own take on it. This particular recipe is actually an Ecuadorian one, so I hope you guys like!

Here's what you need:

2 lbs of white fish fillets (corvina, halibut, sea bass, tilapia, sole...I used Swai)

1/2-1 Ib of Shrimp (just depending on how much you like shrimp! Also, if the shrimp is frozen, make sure it is thawed before you begin)
4 garlic cloves, crushed

1 large red onion
3 Roma tomatoes, seeded and diced very finel
2 bell peppers, 1 orange and 1 yellow,
20 limes
1 bunch of cilantro, chopped as finely as possible
Salt to taste

Directions:

1. The first thing you want to do is cut all the fish into square pieces. They can be chunky or really small, just depending on what you prefer. I like to cut my pieces into larger squares. (Note: the fish wont "cook" as long in the lime juice if they are smaller.)

2. Put all the cut up pieces of fish into a bowl and mix in the bag of (THAWED) shrimp.

3. Next, you need to crush the 4 cloves of garlic. I do this by using a large knife and smashing it over the garlic with my other hand...

afterward the garlic skin will come right off. toss the 4 cloves of garlic into the bowl of shrimp and fish. You're also going to need to chop up about a tablespoon of the cilantro, add it to the bowl and mix in all the ingredients together.

3. This part is the most annoying...squeeze 10 limes into the bowl with the fish. I used a lime a squeezer thinger magiger.

after you have all the lime juice in there, make sure to mix the contents again in order to insure that all of the ingredients are blended in with the juice. Add salt (to taste) and cover up the bowl with plastic wrap and set it aside for about a half hour.

4. While the fish "cooks" in the lime juice, slice up the red onion into thin, but long pieces.

(this is optional, some people like their onion chopped really small.) Once this is done, put them in a small bowl and add some water (just enough to cover the onions) and salt. In ten minutes drain the water from the onions and set them aside for later.

5. Now, cut up the 3 tomatoes,2 bell peppers, and the remaining cilantro.

Again, you can cut these up to whatever size you want...I like my pieces chunky! Add these, as well as the onions, to the bowl with the fish and shrimp. Next, you want to squeeze out the remaining 10 limes into said bowl. Once all the lime is squeezed, mix in the ingredients.

6. Finally, you are going to want to cover the ceviche bowl with plastic wrap again and let the ceviche sit for at least 3 hours (4 is best.)

and once that's done...

and VOILA! You have ceviche!

Note: you can eat Ceviche by itself, with a side of platano chips, yucca, potatoes, or even rice!

Enjoy!

Elizabeth

Journey to a Dynamic Life!

2012-01-05T10:25:00.000-08:00

2012 is going to be my year. I can almost feel it, breathe it, taste it! This year will be dynamic, one of the most defining ones of my life. I am completely determined to get fit, melt away the fat and create some muscle!!! Over the next year, I plan on making videos, posting recipes and sharing all aspects of my journey. I'm not the only one out there struggling with a work out routine, or a diet change, so I hope this blog helps you!

The first step to my healthy life is diet diet diet! I start off breakfast with an Isagenix shake. These things are amazing. They are loaded with nutrients, active enzymes (which are so important for digestion, which in turn, is important assimilating nutrients and stop the fat storing process) and are completely organic, with the highest quality protein out there! (I can rave on about it forever, but if you are interested in learning more about the Isagenix system, click here). I would also like to mention that Isagneix is not a weight loss program, it's nutritional cleansing system and weight loss is sometimes a side benefit of the product (since your cleansing from toxicity which is what stores fat in your cells.)

Next, healthy healthy healthy snacks. Snacking is so important! It speeds up your metabolism and helps prevent binge eating when you try to hold off on food. Usually an apple or a serving of any fruit will suffice. Sometimes, I like to make myself a parfait using Greek honey yogurt and some fresh fruit (recipe on that later!).

Lunch: Protein rich, since I am also incorporating a work out routine. This can be really detailed so I will add recipes later for more details. What's important here is portion control (while still being satisfied) and maintaining a balance of the food pyramid. (500-600 calories)

Another snack!

Dinner: An Isagenix shake

And Lastly, a work out routine!!!

Note: This might seem very tough to follow, but once you see some of the delicious lunches I have, you wont think so anymore! Plus, this only needs to be done for a month, to give my body a break from all the crap I've been eating on the holiday months! In february, I will eliminate the Dinner shake and start incorporating a light meal instead.

Anyway, I am sure I am forgetting a whole bunch of stuff!!!!

love always,
Eli

First run of the year...

2012-01-02T18:12:00.000-08:00

Today I began my first new year resolution: running! More precisely, getting "fit." Well, my parents were pretty dissapointed when I went out the door, and then five minutes later came back home heaving, sweaty, and gagging. They said "that wasn't a work out, go back out there and run for at least 2o minutes! Otherwise your just wasting your time!" and other words of encouragement (yeah...right). So fine. I went running for, like, 5 minutes, BUT really I sprinted a half mile. So, I'm pretty proud of myself. I mean, I have to start somewhere, right? oh, boy.

anyway, I found this pic on facebook and thought it was appropriate :)
I'm going to start ignoring that little voice inside my head telling me to quit.

word.
Elizabeth

A New Year, A Fresh Start

2012-01-01T16:07:00.001-08:00

I loooooove this new year! It feels like I can discard every burden from 2011 and start over. Not that 2011 wasn't great, it was just unproductive. I didn't manage to get most of my New Years resolutions done, sooooooo...on to new ones!

2012 Goals:

1. Visit the temple every week!
2. Get fit! I want to work out 4 days a week and adopt a, new, completely healthy, diet.
3. Read the Book of Mormon in Spanish.
4. Get amazing grades.
5. Save up for a mission (!!!!)
6. Monthly service project (I haven't decided on one, so if anyone has any ideas let me know!!)
7. Read a book a month (does not include any required reading from school...)
8. Pass all three of my institute classes for next semester (:/ I think I'm overloading, but I love insitute so much, I couldn't help myself!)
9. Spend quality time with my niece and nephews every week.

So there you go! I'm sure I'll come up with other ones soon so I might be updating this regularly. Anywho, I hope everyone out there is making there own resolutions!
virtual besitos,
Eli

Christmas Without Dad.

2011-12-24T13:29:00.001-08:00

In all of my life, I have never ever missed a Christmas with my pops. EVER. This year, tragedy knocked on our door, and he was forced to go all the way to Venezuela to bury his own Dad. Not having him around this time of year has made me really consider just how much his presence influences our daily lives. It's so weird having to take out the dogs, I never used to do that, he always loved doing that. Christmas at the Cohen's? Not this year, my Dad always cooked the Christmas feast, and without him, the only one willing (and qualified, honestly) to do it is my oldest sister, Laura. And although it will most likely be delicious, it's not the same. Because on Christmas (and every special holiday) my Dad pours his heart and soul into the kitchen, making cooking a whole day affair. The smell of the food flows throughout the whole house and it just feels like Christmas. And afterward, we watch movies and talk. My whole family spends the night at our home, and there is nothing like seeing my nephews faces when they wake up in the morning to find Christmas presents under our tree. But this year is different...we don't have a Christmas tree. My dad left so quickly he didn't have time to carry out for us girls. That's the curse of having so many daughters, Dad, you have to do most of the heavy lifting.

So this year, Christmas is at Laura's house. We probably wont be sleeping over. I don't know what tree we will be putting the Christmas presents under and my house wont smell like a Christmas feast is brewing....but, in times of sadness count your BLESSINGS!

So my Dad isn't around this year, big deal! He's been around for every Christmas before this one. You know how many girls don't have their father around anymore? You know how many kids get shuffled back and forth between divorced parents on Christmas? My dad has been a constant and dedicated presence in my life, I never went without and he has always tried to do his best for his family. and really, my dad's coming home in a week, I'll see him then, and next year our old Cohen family traditions will fall into place once more.

I have such a close knit family. We don't always get along. We argue and yell, and sometimes we ignore each other. But they are always here. Someone is always willing to listen to my crazy ranting. Someone is always willing to cry with me. I am never alone! What a blessing!

I have the blessing of knowing about the Savior, the Messiah. If my mother would have never met the missionaries all those years ago, I would have been raised Jewish. The absence of knowledge that Christ came and died for me, that he loves me and every one of Heavenly Father's children...that would have been lost to me! The thought of it makes my chest ache, how grateful I am to know about the savior, to be part of the restored Gospel. How grateful I am that my dad accepted the savior into his own life, and that my stubborn grandfather died knowing that Christ was the Messiah.

So, today there is sadness. It's unavoidable when the head of your family isn't around. But there is also great joy, the celebration of our Saviors birth. The celebration of his life, his work, and his sacrifice. It is a day to grow closer to our families, appreciate what we have and begin preparing for the New Year. It is a day full of love and peace.

I keep going back to this scripture....
2 Nephi 2:11
For it must needs be, that there is an opposition in all things. If not so, my first-born in the wilderness, righteousness could not be brought to pass, neither wickedness, neither holiness nor misery, neither good nor bad. Wherefore, all things must needs be a compound in one; wherefore, if it should be one body it must needs remain as dead, having no life neither death, nor corruption nor incorruption, happiness nor misery, neither sense nor insensibility.

Without sadness, there would never be happiness, without bad, there would never be good, without death, there would have never been life...So, in a way, I am grateful for this Christmas in particular, for putting my whole life into perspective and recognizing all of the little and large blessings I have. Because yes, this year is different (to put it lightly) but it is still Christmas, and there is so much I have to be grateful for.

Merry Christmas everyone! May your day be filled with peace, joy, love, and family.

-Elizabeth

2011-12-23T13:17:00.000-08:00

what would I do without you guys? Merry Christmas, my dears :)

When you know better....

2011-12-19T22:09:00.000-08:00

You do better???

Well that's most likely true. But when you mess up, its hard to think about the positive things, and right now, I could care less if next time I do BETTER. Because right now sucks. School sucks. Stress sucks. I know that ten years from now, I'll look back on today and shake my head at myself and I will be wishing that my problems could be this "small". But right now is now. So, while I indulge myself in dreams of the future, the present is just stressing me out.

It's funny because I have never been on such a spiritual high mixed with such stressful stress (yup, that was redundant...I'm that stressed out!) so I'm going to try and trust the Lord completely, trust in his will and trust that he will open up the doors for me. Because I have given it all I've got and I have nothing left to give. It's in his hands....

<3 Elizabeth

Dream as If you'll live forever, live as if you'll die today!

2011-12-11T13:26:00.000-08:00

When someone you love dies, it really puts life into perspective. At least, it did for me. It made me ponder over where I was going with my life and critically think about whether or not that is the road I want to take. As I think about my grandfather's life and all the things he accomplished and all the things that he failed at, I realize his death is an opportunity for me to really learn from him. My grandfather was never afraid to voice his thoughts and he always did exactly what he wanted because he was never afraid to dream BIG. And sure, he wasn't perfect, he had his weaknesses. Nevertheless, I have chosen to reflect on the good he did and be grateful for the best gift he ever gave me: my father!

Through this, I have realized that my life is filled with fear. I fear practically everything! But I've realized that, although my fear isn't going to leave me over night, I have warrior blood in my veins, victory is part of my heritage and I can do anything I set my mind to because those that came before me showed me it was possible. I don't want to live my life wishing things were different, or hoping things will turn out right. Life is hard, it requires a lot of hard work and getting to where I want to go wont be easy...it's not supposed to! If everything were handed to us, we wouldn't learn anything. Failure offers wisdom and it can offer us amazing life lessons if we let it.

I honestly don't know where my life is headed right now, but I'm working on it. For now, in the spirit of Christmas, I am focusing on my family, on my faith, and most importantly on my Savior. I am thanking the Lord for everything that is good in my life, and I am trusting him to guide the way.

And lastly, I want to thank everyone who has reached out to my family and me with love and concern on these difficult days. I greatly appreciate your kindness!

Love,
Elizabeth

Querido Papa Roy,

2011-12-05T08:05:00.000-08:00

Hay tantas cosas que quería preguntarte, y ahora que no estas, temo que nunca sabre las respuestas. Pero yo se adonde estas y se que en las manos del Messiah estarás mucho mejor que en esta tierra tan imperfecta. Quiero agradecerte por criar un hombre como mi papa. Nunca tuve el chance de decírtelo en persona, pero su hijo es un gran hombre, fuerte, sabio y súper creyente en el señor. Y te debió de haber querido mucho porque nunca he visto un hombre llorar como el cuando supo que ya habías pasado a la próxima etapa. Y la verdad es que estamos todos muy tristes, pero confío que el Padre Celestial te llevo porque de verdad te necesitaba por el otro lado. Quiero que sepas que te queremos muchísimo y que pensé en ti todos los días. Y quiero testificarte sobre el evangelio de Jesús Cristo, que es verdadero y que el vino a este mundo para que todos podamos regresar a nuestro Creador. Quiero testificar acerca el profeta José Smith que restauro la iglesia en esta tierra para que podamos estar juntos como familia para todas las eternidades. Que misericordioso es nuestro Padre, que nos da este conocimiento! Papa Roy, quiero agradecerte por la sangre que corre por mis venas, quiero agradecerte por mi linaje, quiero agradecerte por todos los momentos cómicos que pase con tigo. Como recuerdo tus peos, que olían tan horrible! Y que lo hacías apropósito para medir las reacciones de los demás! Que chistoso eras! Ese sentido de humor nunca se me olvidara. Tanbien me recuerdo como corrías! No puedo creer que solo hace un año paraste de correr, a los 77 años! Viviste una vida llena y admiro eso de ti. Y que gozo que puedas estar con la Abuela Ruth, el Abuelo Alberto y tu hermano, el Tio Clemente. Espero que por algún medio puedas leer esta carta, porque de verdad la escribí con mucho amor y admiración.

Con amor,
Tu nieta Eli

If you KNOW you wont feel FEAR.

2011-12-04T23:02:00.000-08:00

What a wonderful message. My grandfather is really sick right now and the thought of him dying without me seeing him again breaks my heart. But despite this, I know, no matter the outcome, that I will see him again and that everything is going to be okay. That is the beauty of the gospel. It will still hurt, but I know that having knowledge of what comes after this life will only provide comfort and help my family and I cope.

love,
Eli

2011-12-02T23:48:00.000-08:00

I am feeling....
excited
happy
powerful
spiritual
beautiful
energetic
special
....and it's midnight and I know I should be going to bed, and I know that I have so many things to do in the morning....but I have so many emotions right now, I can't even think about how to even start getting ready for bed :/

I feel JOY. I want to feel this forever. It isn't for any particular reason. Today was just a fabulous day. I feel LOVE. It's been a while since I have felt the pure and compassionate love of our Heavenly Father so consistently. Reading my scriptures every night has been life changing! And this love makes me feel so empowered because I am His daughter and there is so much He needs me to do, and for the first time I feel completely willing. And also, I know that no matter what happens, no matter how many mistakes I make, no matter how many people hurt me, no matter how many times I don't measure up to my high standards....No matter WHAT, everything will be OK, because He loves me and I am His daughter. And even if everyone gives up on me, He never will.
What a wonderful Father we have. What a blessing it is to participate in His plan. I will never be able to repay him, but I hope he knows that I am grateful.

Love,
Eli

The Perfect Man, I'm Not Too Picky...

2011-11-20T23:33:00.000-08:00

I just want Mr. Darcy. He has the perfect flaws, the perfect qualities. He breaks a billion social norms in order the marry his one true love. I mean, how can I help it when he says things like "In vain I have struggled. It will not do. My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you."

If I could jump into a book, It would definitely be Pride and Prejudice. I would of course be Elizabeth Bennett (which is so CONVENIENT considering we have the same name!) and I would not reject Mr. Darcy the first time around. I mean HELLO. He's Mr. Darcy ( I mean honestly, what was Elizabeth Bennett thinking????) It doesn't even matter which Mr. Darcy I get whether its Collin Firth from the original mini series or Mathew Macfadyen.

Yes, World. I am MADLY in love with a FICTIONAL character. There is nothing wrong with that!!!

<3
Elizabeth Darcy (pft. I wish!)

Que Pasa, Mufasa?

2011-11-13T23:23:00.001-08:00

So, letting go is tough. Now, I know I talk about this all the time and obviously if anyone is taking the time to read this, they know I often complain about how hard it is! Nevertheless, I am going to do it again because I had an AHA! moment in church today.

Sometimes people can be so RUDE. and if your like me, you try to be polite and BrUsH it off like it wasn't a big deal. BUT you know its a big deal when the whole drive home your thinking about what you should have said back or how you should have put so and so in their place for making you feel so small...yaddy yaddy yah.

And so, I've been doing my Lifeclass analysis (if you don't know what Lifeclass is you should investigate because it is LifeCHANGING.) and wondering why it is that I let people treat me this way and so I decided I deserved better and wasn't going to be fake anymore and pretend I am happy with someone when I am clearly not.

So......How do you do this? That is an important question....One I DID NOT have the answer to. Many very important people in my life provided me with fantastic advice and so I was totally in the process of putting my plan into action in order to confront this problem. My plan was basically this: next time someone says something mean, I am going to go ape-poo on them. I'm going to tell them where they can STICK it. I'm going to let them know what its like to feel small. Every time I would think of different scenarios, I would think about how I could put that person in their place in the most condescending way possible.

(Yes. I am pathetic. But at least I am being HONEST right???? :)

Anyway, today I realized something. Anger was fueling me into action, which only meant that the outcome would be negative and explosive. I wouldn't get anything resolved! This realization was because in church today we had a fantastic lesson and certain scriptures stuck to me. This is what we read in class that had me doing an AHA! dance in my head...

James 3: 5

5 Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!

James 3:10-11

10 Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be.

11 Doth a fountain send forth at the same place sweet water and bitter?

James 3:13

13 Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? let him shew out of a good conversation his works with meekness of wisdom.

I thought, "Wow, Elizabeth you are such a Hypocrite! Here you are all upset with someone because they are rude to you and make you feel sad and you are just going to reverse that same attitude that you so HATE on them. Yup, you truly are growing as a human being (<<

If words can hurt me so much, why would I want to inflict that on other people? Even if they do it themselves. I'm not going to help them by being just like them. And even if they don't care and don't change, if I speak with love I would have done the right thing.

Why? Because words are so important. They are so powerful and I realized that I was judging others for something that I obviously didn't have complete control over myself. I mean, I was planning a verbal atomic bomb!

What you say to others can have a lasting impact on them. I'm sure we have all experienced it first hand (I know I have :). I don't want to be the cause of pain on someone else. And if someone is constantly saying mean things to others, its likely that they are dealing with a lot of emotional baggage already, so adding more baggage wont be effective at all in making them treat you (me) better.

NOTE: The point isn't to continue to brush hurtful comments off. The point is to speak in "tiernos acentos" (which I don't know what the English translation is in LDS vernacular but it basically means speaking in kind and loving tones.) People respond better to that. I respond better to that! And also, its a matter of being humble enough to tell someone that they hurt your feelings without dumping a whole bunch of judgemental mumbo jumbo on them.

So I received an important answer today. Solving problems through judgmental communication and hurtful dialogue was not going to get me anywhere. Instead, peace and love baby!

Be a LOVER not a HATER.

<3 Elly

PS. Sorry if this got preachy, I just wrote it exactly how i thought it out and I'm not in the mood to edit it out ;)

Libertad

2011-11-08T19:24:00.000-08:00

Let me tell you something, democracy is great and everything and I'm grateful for the bill of rights...but there is nothing more liberating than owning your own car! I love being able to go wherever WHENEVER I want. And I feel so Empowered that I was able to buy my own car with my own money :) Its not the most beautiful car, I mean its a 1995 Subaru legacy...but it's perfect for what I need. Four wheel drive (so I wont kill myself in the snow this winter!) new tires, INEXPENSIVE (this was the best part, usually subarus sell for a lot more because they are so great to drive in with Utah weather), automatic windows, HEAT and AIR CONDITIONING (this is pretty much a luxury when you are looking to buy a used car)... and its mine ALL mine :)
xoxoxo
Elizabeth

Life's Too Short

2011-10-20T18:50:00.000-07:00

Life's too short to be unhappy. I don't want to waste precious moments selling myself short, devaluing myself and those around me. Life is beautiful, filled with so many opportunities and people that make this experience so worth while. I want to focus on the good, on the power I have inside myself to accomplish my goals and live my life to its full potential. There are so many people filled with so much negativity and I don't want to end up like that. I want to learn to love myself unconditionally and stop being such a huge self critic. I want to stop judging others...I learned a powerful lesson the other day: every time you judge someone else, those judgements are a reflection of your own insecurities and self doubt. I'm trying to catch myself passing judgement and then analyzing what insecurity it is inside of me that is being reflected through those judgements.
I am learning to be completely honest, with myself and others. Every time you don't tell someone how you feel you are hiding a piece of yourself that deserves to be exposed. I'm tired of caring what people might think of me...there's only one me in the world and God created each one of us for a specific purpose. I'm never going to find the true meaning of my life pretending to be someone I'm not.

Dear World,
THIS is ME.
Besitos,
Eli

Harry Potter

2011-07-15T23:46:00.000-07:00

Bests. one. of. the. bunch.

I absolutely loved it...but now that all of the Harry Potter stuff is officially over, I really just want to curl up and bawl my eyes out. I can't picture my life without a Harry Potter movie coming out every year....it was hard enough when the books ended! So J.K Rowling should definitely write another book, for the sake of my sanity :)
peace out lovers.

Sometimes

2011-06-29T00:03:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I wish I could tell people exactly whats on my mind. Sometimes my thoughts are so rude that I am glad my social awareness/potentially guilty conscience stops me.

But then again...sometimes life is really short. and sometimes you just have to deal with people and their...annoying personalities. Because you don't want to wake up one day and realize that you have focused your whole entire life on the negative. Sometimes that happens and at that point you can't blame anyone but yourself.
Sometimes you just have to LET GO. Sometimes you have to choose to forget. You can spend your whole life blaming others for your failures and your pain and your mistakes.don't. Take accountability for your actions. Decide to be better. Sometimes people let others choose for them. Don't let that person be you.
Be the master of your own fate.
peace, love, happiness,
e.L.i.Z.a.B.e.T.h
PS.

Invictus

2011-05-15T20:36:00.000-07:00

Out of the night that covers me,
Black as the pit from pole to pole,
I THANK whatever gods may be
For my unconquerable soul.

In the fell clutch of circumstance
I have not winced nor cried aloud.
Under the bludgeonings of chance
My head is bloody, but unbowed.

Beyond this place of wrath and tears
Looms but the Horror of the shade,
And yet the menace of the years
Finds and shall find me UNAFRAID.

It matters not how strait the gait,
How charged with punishments the scroll,
I am the master of my FATE:
I am the captain of my soul.

Taylor Swift.

2011-04-14T21:47:00.000-07:00

I am so excited. I am SO EXCITED. I AM SOOOOOOO EXCITED!!!! Why am I sooooo excited, you ask? because I will be attending the TAYLOR SWIFT concert with my BEST FRIEND EVER Tania on SEPTEMBER 28. That's why!!!!
If you know me well, then you know that I absolutely love T.Swift. I can literally find one of her songs that applies to any situation, regardless of it being good or bad. She's THAT awesome. Now I just have to make sure that I MEMORIZE everysingle one of her songs....I know most of them, but there are a few lines in each song that I always get confused on so I have 5 1/2 months to get them down.....I can't wait!!!

peace out lovers!
Elizabeth

DEAREST (FEMALE) ZOOBIES,

2011-04-04T14:21:00.000-07:00

Please stop getting engaged. By the time I get back from my mission, there wont be anymore young, good looking guys left. I really don't want to marry someone younger then me or an old geezer. Please consider leaving some for the rest of us girls.
Sincerely,
Elizabeth

Conference Weekend.

2011-04-03T21:20:00.000-07:00

If you didn't watch conference, I invite you to do so. Some of the messages were SO powerful and completely unlike any ones from past sessions. Those messages really inspired me to do better and to keep the standards that Heavenly Father has for his children. For many that have grown up in Utah, certain things of the world might not seem appealing. But because I lived in Miami for the first 10 years of my life and saw my sisters grow up there, many standards are difficult for me to have the desire to keep. Like modesty, for example. I grew up always picturing myself wearing a bikini at the beach and a strapless dress to prom. That was what was normal in Miami. Utah, though, has different norms and so, although I know it is wrong, I still envy those who can wear a strapless dress without a guilty conscience. Anyway, I know that's a dumb example. Nonetheless, I learned something very important this weekend; I am not trying to impress the world. I am here to do what my Father wants me to do. I am here to learn to be better, to resist temptation, and to grow both spiritually and intellectually. I can't limit myself to the temporal perspective...I have to gear my perspective to the eternal. When I people see me, I want them to see that I am different from everyone of the world and that I stand up for my beliefs and actually live them. Obviously, perfection is not really possible in this world but something Elder Holland said really impacted me: "if your trying to do the best you can....then give yourself high marks."

So, the most important thing I learned is evaluate myself; to really think about if I'm living to be the best that I can be. The answer will most likely always be no, but the point is to figure out the problem area and to try and do better next time.

So yeah, I'm done with my speal.
xoxoxoxo
Eli

Leaving Facebook.

2011-04-02T23:05:00.001-07:00

I never thought I'd see the day when I would abandon facebook. Whenever I'd hear of someone doing it I'd think that they were dumb...how could someone live without facebook???? but now I've realized something about myself; I'm pathetic. I have got to get away from the dang computer and start ACTUALLY doing something with my life. I mean, honestly, being pro at facebook-stalking is not something I should be proud of....but I am proud of it and THAT'S A PROBLEM!!! Plus, I've also realized that it plays into one of my major weaknesses: gossiping. It's horrible, simply horrible. I don't want to know who got knocked up or how many girls I knew in high school are ALREADY engaged (ten to be exact, which is a HUGE number) or criticize people for their...inappropriate behavior (inappropriate behavior that they SHOULD have NEVER allowed to be photographed fyi). Okay, so I do want to know. HOWEVER, I need to force myself away from it for a while. So yeah. Don't be surprised if I call you in the middle of the night asking how so and so is and to tell me their profile status. Yes, I am that addicted.
So anyway, my facebook hiatus wont be forever. In fact, I am planning (well hoping really, because I doubt I'll be able to last very long) to stay away from evil facebook until after my finals at the end of this month. If you want to contact me, text me. If you don't have my number ask for it and I'll send it to you. I also like emails. And skype (skype is the shizzle). So yeah. PLEASE feel FREE to contact me WHENEVER. It will help me prevent from submitting myself to my facebook addiction.
yours truly,
Elizabeth (aka: facebook lover/addict)
PS. If any weirdo (that I DON'T know) by chance reads this blog post, don't bother asking for my number. I won't give it to you...this applies only to my peeps, you dig?
good.

Simply Elizabeth.

2011-03-25T20:36:00.000-07:00

Excellence-
I am so completely far from perfection in every sense of the word. Still, striving for excellence is the motivating power that pushes me to be my best self. I want to be excellent.
Literature-
I am reader. An idea can move the masses and I love learning from others who have experienced a life so completely different from me even if I don't agree with a single word of their philosophy.
Intuitive
I follow my gut instinct. If my initial feeling about something or someone is negative then I follow that instinct. Why? because it proves to be right TIME after TIME. I've stopped trying to fight it.
Zumba
I don't "work-out". I dance. It's the only way you'll get any exercise out of me.
Ambivalent
I don't know anything. As a result, when I have to make a life changing decision I avoid it completely.
Blessed
My life has in no way been ideal. I've had to deal with crap, like everyone. Despite that, I recognize my Heavenly Fathers constant presence in my life (especially through the rough times) and it is enough. In and of itself, that is a magnificent blessing.
Emotional
I am a ball of emotions but I rarely express them. There are only a few people out there that have ever seen me raw. It is rare, but those emotions are there all the time. It is most uncomfortable.
Thoughtful
I think all day about the psychology of everything. I'm constantly analyzing others and what they say and how they say it and why they say it...well you get the point :)
Heart
I always put my heart and soul in everything I do. When I love, I love deeply so it's always hard for me to develop strong meaningful relationships. When I do, though, it is unlikely that I'd ever let them go. Once you're my friend, you're my friend forever :)

I'm Basing My LIfe off this Song

2011-03-24T16:22:00.000-07:00

I dont expect you to read the lyrics but I do expect you to go and listen to the song :) its pretty awesome!

Hella Good
-No Doubt

The waves keep on crashing on me for some reason
But your LOVE keeps on coming like a thunderbolt
Come here a little closer
'Cause I wanna see you, baby, real close up
(Get over here)
(Get over here)

You got me feeling HELLA GOOD
So let's just keep on dancing
You hold me like you should
So I'm gonna keep on dancing keep on dancing

A performance deserving of standing ovations
And who would have thought it'd be the two of us
So don't wake me if I'm dreaming
'Cause I'm in the mood come on and give it up

You've got me feeling hella good
So let's just keep on dancing
You hold me like you should
So I'm gonna keep on dancing keep on dancing

You've got me feeling hella good
So let's just keep on dancing
You hold me like you should
So I'm gonna keep on dancing keep on dancing

Ooh yeah yeah
Ooh yeah yeah

You've got me feeling hella good
So let's just keep on dancing
You hold me like you should
So I'm gonna keep on dancing keep on dancing

You've got me feeling hella good
So let's just keep on dancing
You hold me like you should
So I'm gonna keep on dancing keep on dancing

Keep on dancing
Keep on dancing

This song has got me through a pretty rough couple of days. So yeah, when in doubt listen to this song and dance....it definitely brightens the mood :)

We Wreak Havoc

2011-03-20T19:55:00.000-07:00

The combination of Dani, Kathlene and I is sure to cause trouble. Just ask Bobbie...bahahahahahaha :)
So I guess it was no surprise that when we all got together again, we wreaked lots and lots of havoc.

First, we disturbed a lot of studious law students at the BYU law library with our loud whispers and fits of laughter as we searched tirelessly for Bobbie (he works there). We searched and searched and searched but didn't find him. Until we did. Only he saw us and we didn't see him and we ran away because Kathlene scared the bejesus out of us. Causing more laughter and angry looks from angry law students. Then we found him. Only for Kathlene to lean against the power button and turn off EVERY SINGLE LIGHT on the third floor....oh Kathlene, how I love you!

Then we took pictures at BYU places because Dani wanted to laugh at a cougar. no really, she did.

I love the cougar. Dani hates the cougar. oh my. We tried to look scary like the cougar. It backfired miserably. haha!
But the cougar loved me.

Then I saw a tree. Oh, it was a marvelous tree, tall, branchy...just perfect. So I forced Dani to take a picture. She had to lie on the pine needles to get it. But it was just the most perfect tree....

Then we went to another BYU sign. Dani needed to get out some pent up frustration.

It took a gazillion tries to get the self timer thingy to capture just the right moment.

Then we went to the park and Bobbie joined us after he was done with work. that was fun. But we didn't take many pictures. Except for this one:

We made a circle of love.

So yeah, it was a fun day. I love my sibs. They are the best. I love that we'll always be friends :)

love,
Eli
PS. Pictures courtesy of the wonderful Dani Anaya. She never forgets her camara. I always do. Love yous!

Red: The BOSS

2011-03-14T22:19:00.000-07:00

So I took the color code again because my sister kept bothering me about my personality. The results weren't much different from before. Nevertheless, confirmation that I'm slowly turning into my mother is both HORRIFYING and flattering. I mean, she's great....but after you read my results, you'll understand our power struggle and difficulty getting along.

Anyway, here you go.

Color Code: RED

40% Red, 37% Blue, 14% White and 6% Yellow!

Here is the basics: For a more in depth analysis, I suggest you look up the Color Code, and take a more intensive test.

RED MOTIVE: Power

RED NEEDS: To look good (Technically), To be right, To be respected, Approval from a select few.

RED WANTS: To hide insecurities (tightly), Productivity, Leadership, Challenging adventure

SUMMARY: Reds are hungry for power. simply stated reds want their own way. They can be manipulative. Reds find it almost impossible to relinquish their power and freedom when they meet with authority figures. Reds want to be productive. Reds like to work - in school, in their their careers, and in their relationships. They are often work-a-holics. They will, however, resist being forced to do anything that doesn't interest them. Reds want to look good to others. Reds need to appear knowledgeable. They want to be respected even more than they want to be loved. They want to be admired for their practical and logical mindds. Reds shouldn't be taken too seriously. They often state the facts as they see them. They seldom say "in my opinion" before stating their opinions. Reds seek leadership opportunities. Reds are often called "control freaks." If a red can get an upper hand, she or he will.

I almost feel like I shouldn't post this because everyone's going to know my deepest and darkest feelings...yikes! but still, it's interesting to read this and understand myself a little bit more. I'm not a pure red, I'm very much blue with a little bit of white and yellow on the side....haha.

Anyway, I read this book a long time ago and I use it as a reference constantly. If you just want to take the test though, you can go to this website. You'll have to sign up for their dating website at the end to get the results but it's the only way to take the test online and getting all of the percentages of the other colors. The color code website only gives you the dominant color and then you have to pay for a "full profile analysis." Seriously, the book is cheaper.

anyway. I'm rambling.

peace.out.

Elizabeth

Dear Blank, Please Blank

2011-03-04T00:33:00.001-08:00

My friend introduced me to a new addiction. This website is hilarious and I often find myself going there whenever I'm avoiding doing homework....
Anyway, these are some of my favorite ones and I think some of you people out there will appreciate them
:)

Dear men,

Let's make a deal. We won't expect you to be 6'3", 250 lb body builders if you don't expect us to be size 0 Victoria's Secret models.

Sincerely, women

Dear government officials,

Thank you for spending incredible amounts of time and money shutting down Limewire and arresting all those who downloaded. Those music thieves are much more dangerous than murderers, rapists, and robbers.

Sincerely, I'm sleeping much better now.

Dear environmental science teacher,

You do know all that homework is killing trees right?

Sincerely, how dare you

Dear bra size,

Wanna trade?

Sincerely, bad grades.

Dear university teachers,

I don't call you "Professor" out of respect. I do it because it makes me feel like I'm in Harry Potter.

Sincerely, university student.

Dear boys,

Please keep dumping Taylor Swift.

Sincerely, I enjoy her bitter break-up songs

Dear PC,

Sorry you suck. There's an app(le) for that.

Sincerely, Mac

Dear God,

All I want for 2011 is a big fat bank account and a slim body...

Sincerely, please don't mix these up like last year

Dear chopsticks,

Please stop being so hard to use.

Sincerely, no wonder Asians are so skinny.

Dear Sleeping Beauty,

We should have warned you that one little prick could ruin everything.

Sincerely, women everywhere

Dear (: ,

You're doing it wrong.

Sincerely, :)

ear Shakespeare,

Poetic talent is easy to fake when thy sentence doth no freaking sense make.

Sincerely, unconvinced English student.

Well, anyway, I think all these are funny...maybe some you will join me in my new addiction, yeah?
peace.
Elizabeth
PS. the website is dearblankpleaseblank.com

Midterm Hell

2011-02-24T18:40:00.000-08:00

Elle Woods gave me false expectations about college.

Now, I know some of my more righteous friends are probably cringing at the title of this blog. Nevertheless, let me just say that if ACTUAL hell is anything like this last week has been with midterms then I am totally going to do everything in my power to reach exultation. Seriously, I could not deal with this crap for all eternity.
Midterms seriously sucked the life out of me today. I had three. THREE. In one day! IT WAS HORRIBLE. my brain hurts. IT LITERALLY HURTS!
It has been an emotional and stressful couple of days because so much is riding on how I do on these tests. I need good grades. I need Law School...my dream school. And it felt like it was over because of these stupid tests that I couldn't even study for properly because, since they were all scheduled on the same day, I couldn't really give each subject the focus necessary to do well. It sucked. So anyway, Wednesday night I had a break down. It was the day before my test, I was a nervous wreck, I did not feel prepared...need I go on. So I did what most people do when they feel a sense of desperation. I prayed.
Now, my brother's been telling me for a while now that Heavenly Father has a sense of humor and last night testified this for me.
In my prayer I asked Heavenly Father to help me calm down and feel prepared for my test and to also help me go to sleep (it was midnight). So I opened the scriptures randomly and these are the verses that my eyes immediately stumbled upon...

Psalm 2:4-6 4. I cried unto the Lord with my voice, and he heard me out of his holy hill. 5. I laid me down and slept; I awaked: for the Lord sustained me. 6. I will not be afraid of ten thousands of people, that have set themselves against me round about.
The first verse I read made me just start bawling. I don't know if its just me but I sometimes have doubts about whether H.F actually hears me. It brought so much comfort to know that he does.
the second verse helped me relax because I was able to establish a trust in the Lord that everything would be okay. That I could go to sleep, awake tomorrow fortified with His strength.
The third verse made me feel confidant in my abilities to fight whatever came my way and that if He wanted me to be triumphant, then I would be.

Anyway, it's amazing how much a prayer can change everything. Yes, the day was still draining but I can't imagine what it would have been like if I HADN'T prayed.
Lesson Learned: never hesitate to pray, even if its about something that seems dumb at the time.

affection,
Liz
PS. Question: how do people survive college with preparing in high school? I don't know where I would be if I hadn't learned how to somewhat deal with the stress if it hadn't been for IB.

My First Unrequited Love...

2011-02-19T22:56:00.001-08:00

Desperate times call for desperate measures and right now, I'm desperate. For blogging ideas, that is. So, I googled blogging ideas and picked something randomly and this is what came up. haha.
So, I'm going to share with the world my sob story. The story of the first time I ever fell in unrequited love....can you hear the tiny violin playing in the background???
Anyway, the first time I ever really liked a boy was in 4th grade. His name was Alex and I think he was from Argentina, though I can't be sure...anyway, the point is I fell hard. And by hard I mean he was the first boy I ever cried over. I remember when our teacher, Mrs. Guzman, did the seating chart and sat me next to him! It was AWESOME! and like the typical 9 year old girl with a crush, I was MEAN to him. I seriously remember whipping out my hand a few times doing the witty "talk to the hand cuz the face don't talk back" or (and this ones the best) "loser, loser, DOUBLE loser, as if, whatever, get the picture, DUH"...I learned that one from Lizzie McGuire, and honestly it stuck :D
But one day, Alex broke my HEART. You know what he said? he said-and I QUOTE-"You are so annoying, I DON'T like you!"
and that was the first time a boy ever made me cry. sigh. You see, I thought that by being mean I was being cool, but really, I was just being...well, mean. duh.
and no one likes mean people, right?
Well, Dear Alex, I learned my lesson.
Poor guy, I probably gave him nightmares :S When he thinks about 4th grade he probably shudders at the thought of me :'[
xoxoxoxoxo
Liz.

la.di.da

2011-02-15T11:40:00.001-08:00

I'm bored out of my mind.
My art teacher decided to cancel class AGAIN and I don't have anything to do for the next 3 hours.
bored.

Teenagers.

2011-01-28T21:42:00.000-08:00

I remember when Mr. Murphy gave one of his random lectures about life. Mr. Murphy (for those of you who don't know) was a history teacher, yet he probably should have stuck to his original career of choice (counselor). Why? because he was always talking about life and problems. Anyway, in one of our classes he said that teenagers have so many problems with their parents because, besides the hormones, they have reached a level of maturity where they are beginning to recognize all of their parent's imperfections. We stop seeing them through the eyes of an innocent child and begin to see all the flaws. It's a really hard thing to deal with.

Today I turned 19 and I was devastated by how the day unfolded. It was, to put it simply, the worst Birthday, maybe even the worst DAY, of my life. Never mind the details. Anyway, I've noticed that when I have a really bad day I always remember some solid advice from Mr. Murphy. It made me think about how sometimes, the least expected people can bring comfort in your life during hard times. Who, would have thought that Mr. Murphy, out of all the BAZILLION people I have encountered during my life, would have been that person? weeeeeeeiiiiiiirrrrrrrrrd.
peace out.
Eli

Books.

2011-01-23T21:01:00.000-08:00

I love books. If I could read all day, I probably would. Unfortunately, I don't have the time like I used to. And if I do have the chance, my brain is usually way to filled up from the reading from my college classes that I have no room for anything "fun".

Nevertheless, I got a Barnes & Noble gift card for Christmas...which was AWESOME! So I went shopping and bought some books that I feel I will absolutely *love*

So anyway, here's what I'll be reading...

The Hunger Games series has become increasingly popular within the last year and after reading the first book, I understood why. One thing I'll admit about myself is that I judge a book by the cover.every.single.time. I can't help it! and honestly, this series probably has the worst covers EVER. Nevertheless, the dystopian novel seems to be making a comeback (the Uglies series, the matched trilogy, etc.) This book reminds me sooo much of "Fahrenheit 451" although the writing is a lot less complex and written for both a younger and older audience (kind of like Harry Potter.) So if you haven't read it yet....well, try it out! I'm almost done with this book (which is the second), and so far I LOVE it.
I've heard many things about this book and the fact that it inspired the Broadway musical is enough for me to want to read it. I'm excited to get to it!
I love classics. Unlike most people, I definitely don't have a problem reading older/formal English. In fact, I love it. so yeah, I'm weird. Anyway, lately I like reading classic feminist literature so I think this will be a great addition to my increasingly long list...
I loved North and South, which was written by the same author. If you don't like Jane Austen or Charlotte Bronte, then these book are probably not for you. Nevertheless, if you liked the movie "Pride and Prejudice" then you are most likely to like the miniseries "Wives and Daughters" and "North and South" and learn about the story without actually having to read the books. but, I'm a nerd, so I'm excited to read this book!

I've heard so much about this book that I finally caved in and bought it. It's another dystopian novel, which is definitely a subject I loooooooooove reading about for some reason(i.e: The Hunger Games) and it's supposed to be a love story....which if you know me, you know that I am a HOPELESS romantic. It's sad, really.
I don't know why, but I've always been drawn to this book, despite the fact that the main character has major moral flaws. But it's a classic for a reason and I've been wanting to read something from Russian literature for some time now.

the saaaaaaaaaaaaaaddest part about buying all these books though, is that I still haven't finished "The Age of Innocence" by Edith Wharton. I caved and read spoilers and now I know the ending sucks. So I have no motivation to finish it :( BUT I HAVE TO! So after I finish "Catching Fire" I am not going to allow myself to read anything but that until I finish it! So all these books I bought will just have to wait...boo!

xoxoxoxoxo
Eli

2011-01-17T18:16:00.000-08:00

My sister recommended this movie to me a while ago but I was set on NEVER seeing it. 16 year old girl hooking up with an old guy? Um. No thanks. I did not want to watch someone throw their life away for something so stupid.

But I was so wrong about this movie, so completely and devastatingly wrong . Because it was....wonderful? beautiful? inspiring? I can't seem to find the appropriate word that will completely envelop the powerful impact. I can't even give you a befitting synopsis.

I will tell you this though, I cried for an entire hour after it ended. And not because it had a sad ending. It left me excited to live, to go through this journey. Thankfully, I didn't have to make the same mistakes as Jenny (the main character) to get on the right path.

5 out of 5 stars.

LoVe,
Ellie

New Beginings.

2011-01-02T17:01:00.000-08:00

With the new year, I expect many changes. Most are exciting. Among the exciting is my internship....I'm an official intern of the Governor of Utah's staff! I am sooo excited about this:D There is so much to learn from Utah politics, especially if I ever decide to get involved in politics ;) I am excited to be on the floor when bills are being passed and watching the argument process. The immigration bill will also be discussed within these first couple of months (SUPPOSEDLY) so I definitely need to sit in on that one. But alas, I am not allowed to give anymore details about the work I do there (isn't that cool?! it's like I work for the CIA:) so I wont discuss it further ;)
Anyway, I am just really excited for all the opportunities that are at my fingertips right now. I'm a very blessed girl and I need to remind myself to thank H.F tonight. It's amazing how well he knows me! I've decided to never argue with his logic again...meaning, when I get my answer I am doing what I've been told, no complaining :) better said then done, right? But I'll do my best!
love,amor, amour,
Eli

It's A New YEAR! 2011 HERE I COME!

2011-01-01T23:30:00.000-08:00

I think setting goals is a very important thing to do at the beginning of the year. So here are my new year resolutions!
1. Get off my lazy butt and wake up early! I am talking about 6 am early :S
2. Hit the gym every weekday in the morning!
3. Grades. Must keep it up and get AMAZING grades this next semester and the one after that :]
4. Go to Venezuela
5. Go to Miami
6. Get my frickin' license and buy a car!!!!!!!
7. Conserve my friendship with Tania and make an effort to see her at least once a month! (I love ya girl! i miss you :[ )
8.Read the Book of Mormon in Spanish and French.
9. Clean out my dirty mouth and quit saying swear words!
10. Remove toxic influences and friendships from my life.

so here they are, for the WHOLE world to see!
See ya later
;)
Eli

I forgot about this one....

2010-12-24T12:44:00.000-08:00

and I really don't know how or why! I mean, I had been waiting for this moment in my life for the past hmmmmm...I dont know, 4 AND 1/2 YEARS! I mean, I.B was the whole reason why I went to Provo High in the first place. So yes. It was an incredibly important time in my life. So yes. I can't believe I forgot to write about it. I guess its partly because it's hard to say good bye to that chapter. I put so much hard work and effort into it. I made friends that I will NEVER forget. For the first time in my life, I accomplished something major. Because it was. At least to me anyway. And it's sad that it's over (even though I wont lie and say that I didn't pray every day my senior year for it to end!) because so much of it makes up who I am today.
So weeks ago, I got this in the mail...

The I.B dinner. Which I had been looking forward to since December of last year. Why is this important? because I would be receiving my Diploma. I would see my friends. I would get to see my amazing, inspiring, friendly, goofy (I could go on forever) teachers.

And....
well it wasn't what I imagined. Not in a bad way, of course. But I thought I would be happy, but most of the time I was sad. Because it was really over. I mean, I held onto this moment since graduation, and well, I guess I didn't have anything else to hold onto. And everyone changed so much! The seniors looked...well, probably like I did last year, you know, barely ANY sleep. ever. And bobbie. OMG. BOBBIE. he was dressed nice. Now, don't get offended, Bobbie. This is a COMPLIMENT. and there was Dani. Who I've missed. She was different too. But I guess we've all changed.
we all kind of have our own lives now. Which is good, it's bittersweet, but it's good. I'll never stop loving my friends. They're pretty awesome. But we're all so far away :(
so anyway, here's my diploma....drum roll please...
It's glittery on the top! and, AND! (for emphasis) it has diploma in 3 languages :D. Because, I am an international student. I can college credit in any country in the WORLD. Yes. IB is the best. It rocked my world (this is supposed to be interpreted both negatively and positively;) for the last 2 years. and yes, its over. but, cheesy as it might sound, it will FOREVER be in my heart...
con mucho amor,
Liz.

Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness...gotta love T. Jefferson for coining that phrase :)

2010-12-22T13:14:00.000-08:00

There's a lot of things in life that I would like to change. So many things that I wish I could do different. So many dreams shattered, so many situations that will never be rectified. But I guess that's the point of living right? Learning from your mistakes, realizing you CAN be a better person. Knowing that, yeah, you may have failed this time but that doesn't mean you wont succeed next time. Many motivational speakers say to remove the word "failure" from your vocabulary. But I don't completely agree. There are so many big (and small) lessons with every unsuccessful attempt. You learn from that, you get up, try again, and with a little Celestial help...you'll probably succeed. But then again you might not. So, you try again. And again. And again...and if its really important to you, well, then you aren't likely to give up on it, right?

I think this quote really sums it up. I can't give up. It's not in my nature. I can't stop believing in my self because, well, I KNOW what I'm capable of. I just have to stop being such a procrastinator and do things NOW. Like my mom says, "Ayer fue muy tarde" or in other words (more precisely English words ;) "Yesterday was late."
So anyway. I feel better about life after writing this. More motivated. You know, ready to conquer the world and all that jazz.
besitos!
Elli belli full of jelli

Remembering Christmas

2010-12-18T00:30:00.000-08:00

Now that I really have to grow up and start being an "adult" I've realized that my perspective on things (such as Christmas) have really changed. I remember being a kid and waking up to find all the toys under the Christmas tree and being so excited to see what Santa brought me. Now that I'm older though, I am starting to figure out the true spirit of Christmas and what it really means. For the first time in my life I have been able to buy presents for my family and I have found that this is more exciting than speculating what I am receiving. Christmas is about giving. Christmas is about loving your family and being grateful for the wonderful blessings you have received. Christmas is about remember the birth of Christ and the wonderful life that he lead...and being grateful for his extraordinary sacrifice.

So, in order to really get into the "Christmas spirit" I've made a list of things that I think will help me remember Christmas...

1) Read A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens.
2)Watch How the Grinch Stole Christmas with my nephy-poos

3) Read the nativity story in the New Testament
4) Watch It's a Wonderful Life

5) Make Christmas cards for loved ones :)
5) Watch Elf

6)Go see Temple Square with my family
7) Watch the Greatest Story Ever Told
Love,
Ellie

2010-11-24T00:18:00.000-08:00

Before you read this, please take the time to watch the video above.

Lately I've been thinking a lot about life and my the role I have to fulfill here on Earth. I feel like I (and I'm sure many others, especially us girls) get so distracted with our physical appearance, keeping up with the hottest trends, preserving our "image", that we completely forget about what we REALLY are on this Earth for. I know this happens to me aaaaaaallllllllllllll the time. Its a sad thing to admit, to realize that you haven't been focusing on what's really important.

I think this video really changed that for me though. I mean, this girl is burned from head to toe and her situation hasn't stopped her at all but has made her into a better, more focused person. I think about myself right now, with all the blessings that I have, and I am nowhere near that. I want to stop focusing on my selfish desires and start asking "Heavenly Father, what can I do for YOU today?." I mean, it's only fair, right? I have many more blessings than I feel I honestly deserve.

I'm a very motivated person. When I do things, they need to be perfect. Especially when it comes to school. I might be procrastinator but boy, when I turn in a paper I know its as perfect as I can possibly manage. But I've been thinking....am I applying that to the most important aspects of my life? Like reading scriptures, PRAYING, sharing the gospel and standing firm on my beliefs? I don't think so.

I'm not prioritizing things like I should, and this is partly because I'm too ambitious for my own good. I focus all my attention on school work that I forget about H.F and family. But I can't live like that anymore. I can't be putting school first and I can't forget about what's really important. Success in school will come naturally if I learn to prioritize correctly.
you know that Eminem song "lose yourself"?
the lyrics have these lines:
You only get one shot, do not miss your chance to blow
This opportunity comes once in a lifetime yo

Well, my dears, this applies to life too. This is it. This is your shot. Your life will go past you in a blink of an eye...and that small millisecond will determine the rest of your eternal existence.

I know it's hard. But I have to do it. It's time for lazy Elizabeth to become Super Proactive Spiritual Elizabeth.
So, there. 'Nuf said.
<3 Elizabeth

LIFE. UNEXPECTED.

2010-11-14T20:35:00.000-08:00

I'm frustrated because life's not perfect, therefore nothing is perfect. Maybe you've gone through this too, so you can understand where I'm coming from.

I paint this picture in my head of how I want my life to go. Needless to say, nothing I have planned in the past has EVER gone as planned. It's really annoying. All I want is to live the life I have in my head! Its not fair. I try to be an optimist but honestly being an optimist is extremely annoying. I wish I could live in a Taylor Swift song, or even Gaga's Just Dance song because according to her song if you "just dance, gonna be okay." (not true...after dancing, all the stresses of life,unhappiness etc. usually comes rushing back.)

Ugh. Life! No, I'm not depressed, but I just want to fast forward to the future to see how my life turns out so that I can make sure that everything I'm doing right now is worth it, ya know? So that I feel comfort in my future, or force myself to change my present so that my future can go into a better direction..........rambling, I know! but....UGH. LIFE. But I guess it's not supposed to be easy right?

on that note....
word.
Ellie

BFF Adventures...

2010-10-30T23:19:00.000-07:00

I've only ever had one best friend that has ever felt like family. I could go weeks without talking to her, and nothing ever changes between her and I. Her name is TaNiA and she is the one of the best persons I have ever known!
This last Wednesday, she and I hung out in Salt Lake City. First, we went to a DeLiCiOuS sushi place that cost $14.99 for all you can eat lunch. This is a conversation Tania and I had before we got their.

Me: I love sushi.
Tania: Me too, but I never get full off of it.
Me: what?! I get full every time...

Needless to say, we had about 4 rolls each.... and I think we were BOTH full:)

This was the restaurant...I'll admit, I've had better, but it
was still really good.

Afterwards, we took some pictures outside in Tania's car.

Then, Tania took me to my new favorite store, the place I think I will always shop at for those essential items.....the place? Decades Vintage Clothing.

Tania, I will forever be in your debt for
introducing me to this store!!!To say I'm in LOVE is an understatement.
Decades=best store ever.

I got 2 amazing things: the first: a vintage Chanel purse!!!!
Is it real? I dont know...I dont care! it was $20 bucks :D
The second: The jacket that Tania and I have deemed the "Ke$ha"jacket. It's a 1950's sequined sweater/jacket thingamajiger.

LOVE LOVE LOVE. This thing looks adorable with a white top and skinnies :)

Anyway, I had so much fun with my BFF. Tania girl, I love your guts. I can't believe I've been so blessed with such an amazing, down-to-earth friend :] We must do this again soon...

lots of love :)
Eli

Sacrifices and Exciting Things

2010-10-23T23:16:00.000-07:00

So, my family is probably really sick of hearing about it so I thought I might as well share it with the world and get out some of the excitement that's been building up inside of me since I found out...Anyway, the other day I was looking at the Westminster website and I was kind of curious about what study abroad programs were offered at my school. It was mild torture, I'll admit, because I doubted I could ever afford (saving money...well, lets just say, its NOT my forte :S) but I read about a program that my college is involved with that allows you to study in other locations in the United States and you pay everything directly to your school, so my scholarship would count! meaning, all i'd have to pay for is room and board and other typical college expenses! So I set up and appointment with my counselor and I tell her "I was looking at the website for Study Away, and I'm really interested in doing that before I graduate since my scholarship covers tuition" so she asks "okay well are you thinking about going somewhere in the States or international?" so yeah basically I freaked out with the excitement.
Anyway, I have to pay about $9,000 but this includes: room and board, visa, plane ticket, food, health insurance, traveling, and other things for the WHOLE 9 month period....yes its alot...but I'm getting about 80% of it from fafsa!The sacrifices:No car in January.I can't force Tania (my bestie) to move with me next school year, because whether she knows this or not, I was going to force her (Tania, now you know, but my plans have obviously beent thwarted :(
Independence will have to wait till August when I leave for the program :(
I can't blow all my money on clothing. This is definitely depressing.
On a brighter note:Here are the following locations that I'm requesting (in order):
#1: Vesalius College
Location: Brussels, Belgium****Classes will be in English (thank goodness! my french sucks!) but I will learn french because it is the main language spoken in the capital.2: University of Strathclyde
Location: Glasgow, Scotland
#3: University of Central Lancashire
Location: Preston, Lancashire, England

#4: Universidad de Santiago de Compostela
Location: Santiago De Compostela, Spain
Language: Castellano-in other words, Spanish.
#5: Universidad de Murcia
Location: Murcia, Spain
Language: Castellano

So yeah, this is the master list! hopefully I'll get into one of these programs :) !!!!
lots of lovin'
-Eli

Literature, Heritage, and World Conflicts

2010-09-17T23:51:00.000-07:00

I just finished watching a rerun of Oprah. It was the episode where she goes to Auschwitz with Elie Wiesel, the author of the memoir Night. Elie Wiesel is a Jewish Holocaust survivor and the book is a complete record of his experience. I can't really describe what it was like watching that episode. I think the majority of people would watch it and feel disgust, they might even cry; the experience was different for me though. I mean sure, I had that reaction as well, but as I watched Elie Wiesel, all I could see was the face of my grandfather, the face of my father, my haritage, my people, my tribe, my family. Elie Wiesel described how 75% of the Jews that entered the camp were automatically sent to the gas chambers. Of those people, the vast majority were women, children, and the elderly.

And then he goes on to speak of the political prisoners and that's when it really hits home. My grandfather was a prisoner there and as I watched I could almost feel what he felt, for the first time I felt like I could somehow imagine what it must have been like. I could see the place, I could feel the presence of all those who died, and I could feel him. It was the most magical and yet the saddest experience of my life.

I wasn't raised Jewish, I barely know any of the practices. but I think that is one of the most beautiful thing about Jewish culture, that it is not just about the religion. to be Jewish has nothing to do with religion, it has so much more to do with unity, with ethnicity and tradition. I feel such a connection with that aspect of my heritage.
Until next time!
Ellie

Confession 19: I am a T.V Addict

2010-09-11T00:07:00.000-07:00

I am a television addict. They say that recognition is the key step to recovery...I dont plan on recovering any time soon though....why? because there's a whole new season of shows starting this month!!!! yay! so here's the lowdown on my favorite shows, hope you enjoy and become addicted as well ;)

#1. Grey's Anatomy

Grey's Anatomy somehow managed to make me want to become a doctor for a while there. That's how awesome it is. It actually managed to make me want to change the dream I had created for myself at 8 yrs old. watch it.

#2. Vampire Diaries
Damon Salvatore is hottie with naughty body. enough said.
#3. Gossip Girl
Chuck and Blair never get old. Neither do the head bands.
#4. 90210
Drama Drama Drama.
#5. Private Practice
4 words: Grey's Anatomy Spin-off
#6. Castle
This show made me want to be a detective. lol. its hilarious.
#7. One Tree Hill
I've been watching One Tree Hill since I was 11. I can't stop now, can I? Even though the show is almost unrecognizable from the first season.
#8. Life UnexpectedOkay, lets just say it doesn't get cheesier then Life Unexpected. But its cute. So I watch it.

So there it is people. Am I, or am I not an addict?

Until next time!
Elizabeth

The Duchess...Winner of Most Depressing Film

2010-09-06T00:36:00.000-07:00

I just finished watching The Duchess with Kierra Knightly and it left me completely staggered. I can't believe how much abuse women have undertaken throughout the history of humanity. I can't believe that women both in and outside of this culture continue to be abused and disrespected. I feel so sheltered by American society because abuse against women, although common, is looked down upon. Yet still, in so many other cultures, it is a part of every day life; it is expected. I probably shouldn't have watched this movie, especially since I have recently developed a little bit of resentment against everything that has to do with love and men.
I think it's disgusting for a man to take advantage of his natural strength to overpower a woman. What was given to them as a means to protect their wives and families, in many cases, has been the cause of much abuse. I know that, obviously, not all men hit their wives (duh, I mean my own dad has NEVER done that) and I know that not all men are as disgusting as the idiot in this movie but the thing of it is, how will you know you're not marrying a lunatic? How will you know your not marrying a pornography watching grosso?
Many of us are so completely overtaken by our feelings that logical thinking is automatically erased. Ask yourself this, how many times have you liked a guy that you know is TOTALLY wrong for you? A guy that you know is "no good"? I know I have. But the thing of it is, is that when you are so completely infatuated with someone-strike that-with the IDEA of someone, it is almost impossible to put those emotions to a halt. I have been so close so many times to losing friends because I'm the only idiot to tell them that their boyfriends aren't as great as they have envisioned them. But the question is, what is it about that pull between men and women that make them so willing to drop friends and family for the company of the other, for that emotion? It's really quite frustrating.
It's a scary thought. As much as I love Taylor Swift's Love Story, I know that it doesn't exist. Why? because there is no such thing as "Mr. Perfect". Which is okay, considering there is no such thing as "Miss Perfect" either. I'm sick of stupid butterflies, I want to think about love logically. Coexisting with someone for eternity can't possibly be easy. Real love takes work. Real love is not a fairy tale. There is no such thing as Prince Charming, there is no such thing as Cinderella. The only people that exist are those that live in reality. News flash: that's us. So if we don't want to be heart broken, we have to stop blinding ourselves and love people for who they truly are, not what we have picture them to be.
My mom told me this recently: she said "If you want to truly find someone that will be an eternal partner to you, someone who can be supportive and give you what you need then do this: write down now, while your NOT in "love" all the things you will never be able to tolerate in someone (for example, if he insults you, if he's disrespectful to his mother, if he is a gossip, if he hates children, etc.) and all the things that are extremely important to you ( member of the church, family oriented, etc) and don't settle for anything less. When you are considering getting married to someone look over that list and see if that person fits to those things with which you can't live with out." Anyway, I think she's right. Actually, she's never been wrong when it comes to relationships.
Anyway I'm probably just be tired and bitter over the stupid movie and will change my mind about all of this tomorrow :)
Until next time!
Ellie

First Day of College!

2010-08-25T16:48:00.000-07:00

My first day of college. Wow. I really never thought this day would come. I had dreamed about it since I was like, 5 but I never thought time would rush by me so quickly and get me here. When I got the SOMOS scholarship I was ecstatic...but the joy was bitter sweet. I had maintained a constant dream of moving out of state for college and living somewhere exciting, different, somewhere NOT Utah :S and then I found myself in this situation, with the amazing opportunity to go do my undergrad years for FREE. The difficult thing about this situation was something that I had already begun to realize by the time I filled out most of my University of Chicago application: if I got in, how the heck was i going to pay for school? Here's the thing about my parents: they are the most selfless, self-sacrificing people in the world when it comes to their kids. I know they would have never been able to afford the tuition, but they would have given me everything they could, even if it meant some major sacrifices on their part, major sacrifices that wouldn't even make a dent on my tuition bill (and the tuition bill I had drawn up in my head would have had big portion payed off by financial aid). So I got the scholarship. and I prayed. and I received my answer.

I chose to come here. I didnt know what I would expect. I reminded myself that getting in debt for undergrad school is careless and stupid (especially when you have an ivy league on your mind for grad school :S) , and I reminded myself that Westminster is a solid school with a pretty prestigious reputation (especially in Salt Lake, where most people cant stand the sound of the letters B-Y-U uttered sequentially, lol). I felt good about it. You know, I had accepted that I would be living in Utah for at least 3 more years.

And then it happened. I walked on campus today, my first day of college. And I realized something real amazing about Heavenly Father: He KNOWS me. I'm getting teary as I write this because its such an amazing thing that I have completely come to rearlized: Heavenly Father knows me 1000 times better than I know myself. Everything I didn't know I wanted, everything I knew I wanted is right here. Somehow, HF knew. And he put me here!

My teachers are amazing. They are funny, bright and so completely willing to help their students be successful. The campus is small, cozy, but so full of LIFE! I have never seen so many friendly, helpful people in my whole 18 years of existence. I love the feel of the library, the SUSHI (all i can say is DIVINE), the book store, the computers, the smell....I love it here!!!!!!!

so yeah, I had an amazing first day of College :)

Until next times my luvs!
Ellie

Confession #18: I am no longer a lazy @$$

2010-07-14T22:28:00.000-07:00

I, Elizabeth, officially am not a lazy...you know what. Why? Because I got a job at HARMONS! To most this would seem like a dull, non-extraordinary, job. Nevertheless, It is a JOB! yay! I actually always wanted to work at Harmons because it was always so nice and the food was always so good...and Lets face it, their sushi is LEGIT. Plus, today, during training, I saw the most spectacular looking boy working there and I swear my heart almost stopped....but I probably wont ever see him again and he'll probably have another shift from me and theirs also the fact that he most likely is NOT Mormon-y since he has his ear pierced... but whatever, he's cute so I will daydream and NEVER act on it since you know, the whole religion thing is a MUST. So yeah, random, but I thought I had to it. Okay, I'm ranting.
Word.
Elizabeth

Confession #17: Hard Work DOES Pay Off

2010-07-06T08:20:00.000-07:00

For a long time now (or at least for the last 4 months) I have really felt like a failure in life. It's sad yet so true. I didn't know why the heck I was working so hard and not gaining anything out of it. I felt like every move I made would only result in failure and more shattered dreams. So, after completing all of my 21 hours of testing for the IB diploma in May, I was 100% positive that I would result in failure again. This past summer I have been trying to convince myself that I didn't need the IB diploma to prove all that I had learned-I mean, all it is is a piece of paper, right?Lets just say that I finished the summer with no motivation for trying hard any more. I felt like, what is the point of learning so much, trying so hard, just to fail? Why not take life slowly (like a NORMAL person), relax, and accept the fact that no matter how hard I try nothing will turn out like I wanted it. So, if you can't tell by now, I was in a state of depression. Nothing could motivate me out of bed. I had no desire to read, no desire to try.and then it happened. I logged into facebook at 9:43 am. And there on my home was Dani's smiling face with an "I got the Diploma" for a status. Great, i thought. The results are out (even though I KNEW they were coming out today, I was hoping they wouldn't tell us for another couple of days.) And so, I was heartbroken. I thought "well, I knew Dani was going to get it ( i mean, lets face it, when has Dani ever failed at life???) and now Bobbie will probably have it (because Bobbie is a frickin' genius) so, I'm probably the only idiot of the group who didn't get it. Great. How embarrassing." And so, i log out of face book and log in to my email. And there it was. An email from Valerie (the IB secretary) with a title of IB results. My hands were shaking. My heart was POUNDING. I wasn't ready to know what a failure I was. I clicked on the email and it read...

Dear Elizabeth,

Here are your IB results. Congratulations, you did it!! Hope you are having a great summer. If you have questions, email me. I will be back at the school in August.

and I'm like," Congratulations? I must have at least gotten some certificates then. well, that's good, i guess"
and so i scroll down, see my scores, I obviously dont do the math on my point total. i scroll down a little bit more and see the fated words:


Result:	Diploma awarded

Well, here's what happened. I stared at the screen for I don't know how long. and then I counted the points of my test scores to double check and make sure that Valerie hadn't made a mistake. And then I counted again to make sure I hadn't made a mistake. But indeed, I GOT THE INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA!
Today, a miracle happened. With just 2 words, I suddenly realized that I have been acting stupid for a very long time. I mean, hello, I worked my a$$ (pardon my french) for the diploma. Sleepless nights, countless headaches, days and HOURS of Mr. Simmons (my math teacher) TRYING to teach us math but being horrible at it. Study sessions. Study sessions. and MORE study sessions. Like duh. Of COURSE I was going to get the diploma, how the heck could I doubt myself?
Lesson Learned: Be confident in what you do, try your best and things will turn out.

SIBS 4 EVA

Until next time, chickadees!
Elli

PS. I have to thank 3 very important people that went through the process with me. Dani, Bobbie, and Cati. Thank you guys so much for everything! I LOVE YOU GUYS! I know i wouldn't have been able to do it without you guys.
PPS. I guess I proved myself wrong...about myself ;)

Confession # 16: I Need to Move on and Grow Up.

2010-06-29T21:15:00.001-07:00

Today I took the first step. Today, I decided that I was going to stop pitying myself and my boring NON existent life. Today, I made the first move. Today, I decided to grow up. Today, I applied for a job. I've realized that I need to stop avoiding the inevitable. I mean, sure, I have enough money from my FAFSA to be happy. but I'm not. Why? because, in the REAL world, working is a necessary evil. I mean, sure, go ahead. Go to college. But after that, if you have no working skills whatsoever, it will be very hard for you to get a job. And saying that you do, well then you wont have any experience with having an EVIL boss. and if you dont know how to work with a boss and stupid coworkers, well then your going to have a major surprise waiting for you. Or maybe I'm just trying to force my lazy a$$ except the fact that I WILL GET A JOB and accept the fact that sleeping, eating, and watching TV 24/7 is not a life.

*sigh*

I really should have gone to college during the summer. I don't know how to live without school. It's sad. It's pretty depressing, actually. and pathetic, if you think about it. I mean, what kind of a person depends on SCHOOL for fun? yeah. me. siiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiigh

So, I have decided to start planning. You know, to actually GET my license. Or, you know, travel. Maybe do an exchange program at Westminster sometime. Study abroad. Fun stuff. Rather than dwell on the fact that I am confined to this darn house for the REST OF THE SUMMER. therefore, I want-no NEED- a job. You know, so that I don't die of boredom.
You wouldn't want me to die of boredom right?

Until next time, my dears.
Elizabeth

Confession # 16: World Cup Hotties and New Addictions

2010-06-15T14:49:00.000-07:00

Okay, so like what the fork? Beckham isn't playing?! I can't believe he got injured, its truly depressing...but at least he's still watching and I can get a glimpse at his handsomeness every once and a while ;)

Also, is it just me, or is there something super mega attractive about Tim Howard, the US goalie? because I think he's a hottie!
I mean, he's not gorgeous like Beckham, but there's definitely something about that man.
Also, Argentina is playing AMAZINGLY. Maradona (their trainer or whatever) has definitely been teaching those dudes amazing strategy. I mean, they are so fast in passing the ball and their defense is pretty good. So they are now officially on my list of favorites. I think I'm removing France because they're kind of weak sauce, you know?

IN OTHER NEWS...

I am addicted to The Bachelorette. It's so awesome! Currently, I love love love Roberto and Chris, they are the cutest guys ever and appear to be completely perfect.

So, if your reading this, you should totally watch that show, its so much fun ;)

Au revoir!
Elizabeth

Note: have you noticed that this has been a super unproductive summer? because, it has. All I want to do is sleep, watch TV, go shopping. Sad life, huh?

La Copa Mundial de Futbol...Will you be watching?

2010-06-06T00:42:00.000-07:00

This is the moment people all over the world have been anxiously waiting for! Especially us Latinos! I mean, honestly, how dare you call yourself Latino if you haven't been counting down for this moment? Yeah, that's what I thought!

So, anyway, futbol. El deporte que une y define todo el pueblo SurAmericano! Who will win? Who are we rooting for? Well, unfortunately for ME Venezuela does not have a soccer team will EVER qualify into the competition. However, I am lucky enough to have a second option....Vamos ESTADOS UNIDOS! Thats right, I'm going for USA...land of the free, and land thats going to kick a$$ this summer. Hopefully. I don't know, but I mean I live here and I have to support my peeps, know what I mean? Anyway, in 2006 they were so disgustingly cheated and I swear the refs were penalizing them all the time for NOTHING and letting the other teams get away with EVERYTHING. It pissed me off. Team #2? MEXICO LINDO Y QUERIDO! I love my Mexicans ( you know I'm talkin' bout you Tania!) Mexico has a solid team, and I predict that they will do veeery well this time around...Favorite team #3: ESPAÑA! La Madre Patria
Spain has a killer team this year. 4 years ago, the players were very young and played a murderous, incredible, astonishing, nail biting game...but that was four years ago and many of them have gotten even stronger, more experienced and more trained....this might just be the year for La Madre Patria....
4th? England! Why? Have you seen David Beckham? That dude is fiiiiiiiiiiiiiiine....I mean, just take a look!
4th!!!!!!! Brazil!!! They areprobably the strongest team in Latin America (probably being because if you asked someone from Argentina, they'd say they had the strongest team...pfffffft I mean, yeah, they're good, but whatever Mary) and have some of the most famous players in the world...Ronaldinho, Kaka...plus, they're coach has amazing strategies....however, who knows how they'll do? Last time they played the United States they almoooooooooost lost....
5th: France. Yes, they are arrogant. Yes, many of them would probably hate me for being American. Yes, the french language should die (thaaaaaaaanks Dr. You-Know-Who for making me HATE the language). However, you also have to remember Monet, Alexander Dumas, and Channel...they were french and they were awesome. Besides, Italy totally stole the World Cup championship from France in 2006 with their dirty playing. It would be nice for France to win, it would be a slap in the face to all those mean Italians I encountered while I was there. Not that I'm bitter or anything...........
So those are my top 5. I AM SOOOOOOO EXCITED!!!!! Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh! Okay *breathe*
Anyway, here is the link to the official World Cup song....its totally awesome and i TOTALLY love it! When I hear it I cant help but get up and shake my booty to the rhythm of the music!!! YAY!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DV8HpCCI3L0

Until next time....
Elli

PS. This was kind of a hyper post.......but, I mean duh! I've been waiting for this for the past 4 YEARS!

Confession #15: I Graduated!

2010-06-03T01:32:00.000-07:00

So I am officially a High School graduate! Wow. The years have gone by waaay too fast. Our graduation ceremony was rather dull...but dude! I got my diploma! WTF! Can you believe it? It's crazy, crazy, crazy! I mean, I never really thought I would survive IB! But I did and I think Dani and Bobbie would agree that it was a life changing experience. I don't really know how to express how powerful this program is but boy, I don't think I'll ever be the same.
Anyway, back to graduation....here are some pictures! enjoy!

Confession #13: Holy crap! I'm graduating!

2010-05-22T22:30:00.000-07:00

It's pretty pathetic that it just barely hit me that I am in fact graduating. on Thursday. omg. I can't believe that the years have blown by so fast. I swear I can still remember my freshman year like if it happened yesterday. I spent so much time wishing I could be done with high school...but now, I almost wish I could stay for a couple more weeks. Graduation means getting a job. It means growing up and actually getting my license. and buying a car :s I'm so scared about college. College is were my dreams will actually start to configure into reality; every decision from here on out can truly affect me for the rest of my life.

So yeah, its pretty crazy. I'm graduating. Mr. Ricci wont be my English teacher. Ms. Hendricks wont be my history teacher. HELEN! Helen wont be available to give me pep talks when I'm sad :( Val...I'm definitely going to miss her.

Then their's all those people that I probably wont ever talk to again. People that I see everyday in the halls. Who am I going to hear gossip about? I love gossip! (i know its not a good thing...but hey, at least I'm honest ;) What will happen with all the cool juniors I've made friends with this year? questions questions questions...

Life is changing. I feel like I'm on a roller coaster ride. I don't know whats next, I have no idea what life is planning for me. I guess I'll just blog about it as it happens ;)

until next time!
Elli

Confession #11: Sometimes life throws you curveballs and you get hit in the face...i just got hit

2010-05-11T13:44:00.000-07:00

Life can sometimes suck. No really, it can. Life can sometimes be unbearable. Life sometimes hate you. Sometimes, life just really wants to piss you off. Yes, if you couldnt tell by now, i am bitter. I mean, I've worked my [butt] off for the IB diploma and I probably wont be getting it because i have panic attacks during tests. And guess what? I'm not even done. I have a 3.699 and i should have a 3.70 but i have a stupid math teacher who cant remember making a deal with me to change a certain grade...well guess what? i did the work! and he refuses to change the grade and because of his evilness i wont be graduating with high honors... So among other things, my life has not been going as i envisioned it. dreams are shattered and life takes you on detours. Sometimes you just have to learn to play the game....NOT.

ANYWAY, the point to the previous paragraph full of misery and strife (I'm being overly dramatic...) is that yes, life sometimes is not fun. But giving up is so much worst. I told my dad recently that if you never try you never fail, and if you never fail then at least you can pretend that you might have been able to do it. you know what he said? he gave me a typical Alberto C. answer. He said: life is like climbing a mountain (yes, he is officially obsessed), sometimes you are so close to the summit but conditions force you to have to climb down. But it doesn't matter because the next day, you get up and you try again until you climb that mountain.

In many ways, he is very right. If you never try, you will never get anywhere. I don't want to live like that. I want to die trying. No, I will claw my way until i get what i want. Because the only people that determine your life is YOU. If someone else doesn't think your good enough, then all i can say is pfffffffffffft. Other people putting obstacles in your way should not deter what you do. The only person that will truly stop you is yourself. So, what i'm saying in a very round about way is that we all should do what we want to do, be what we want to be. Life can only suck if you let yourself think it sucks. We all go through hard things, terrible things. But they make us stronger, they make us better. We should measure ourselves by our own achievements, not those of others. So, lets be happy people! we only get one life ;)

Until next time...

Ellie

PS. Btw...about the picture; how can we ever hate life when we have gorgeous places like that to see?

Confession #10: Westminster College is awesome.

2010-05-07T13:43:00.000-07:00

When i got my full ride scholarship to go to Westminster, i had to consider a lot of things before accepting. I mean, i was applying to 5 out of state schools that I was DYING to go to and accepting the scholarship would mean postponing my plans on moving out of state (i say postponing because i WILL GO TO AN OUT OF STATE SCHOOL FOR GRADUATE WORK! plus i have my mission...) and that was a real tough thing to let go of. I talked to my counselor about it and she highly recommended that i go there (she loves small colleges and says that they are the best and cater the most to their students) and so she was the first to really start convincing me. And then their was Helen (if you don't know her, she's the college and career lady-she actually was the one that told me about the scholarship). She told me "Elizabeth, you have been given a great gift, don't take it lightly." Well, they obviously knew what they were talking about, I mean, that's basically their whole career. But honestly, i left it up to God. I prayed and PRAYED and Prayed...and then i got my answer. And if it felt so right!
This week i signed up for my classes. I declared my major (sociology) and am double minoring (philosophy and political science). This is so exciting!!! I feel on top of the world...I already know so many people that are dedicated in making sure that i take the right classes and the right teachers...its been amazing. I mean I'm so pumped that i even want to triple minor! In Spanish, so its not like it'll be hard or anything. But still, i don't even know if you can triple minor ;) All i'm saying is that things happen for a reason. I don't know why i have to stay in state, i don't know what i am supposed to learn but i guess I'll find out soon enough.
Until next time...
Elizabeth

Confession # 9: IB TESTING SUCKS

2010-05-07T13:36:00.000-07:00

I love IB. I have been given so many opportunities because of it and i have learned to work so hard for what i want. I have AMAZING teachers who want us to become educated and aware of the world around us. And for that I am BEYOND grateful. I mean, i got a full ride out of this. As in I wont have to think about being broke for the next four years...I will actually have FAFSA money to spend!!! OH JOY! SHOES HERE I COME....

but one thing i am most definitely NOT grateful for is the TESTING. 20 HOURS OF TESTING. i know. shoot me. PLEASE. so yeah. it sucks. I mean, i probably should be studying right now. I have English and History on Monday-Wednesday. However, there is one perk of all this testing...guess who has to go to math only twice this month? yes, you guessed it...ME! So, i guess that's the light at the end of this horrid tunnel.

until next time!

kiss kiss!

Ellie

PROM! a rather late update...

2010-05-07T13:01:00.000-07:00

So, prom was over a month ago. I have been procrastinating blogging because my life is stressful sometimes. I mean, all those people that think I'm crazy for being an over achiever for doing this...well they are right. This is crazy. I have over 20 hours of IB testing this month. I know, kill me now. Anyway, back to prom; I had the best time at prom. Maybe it was because i've made some of the coolest friends ever (plus they're all nerdy like me.) but i really had an awesome time. The following pictures are from our day-date at the tulip festival...we had an awesome time >

Dani and I were a little hyper...so we decided to run down this huge hill....It was so steep that Dani and I both face planted...yes, everyone did laugh at us.

And then we had to hike up again...but it was fun because we were laughing so hard!

The girls!

Our dates!

Afterward, we went home to get ready. We looked HOT if i do say so myself. We went a chinese restaurant for dinner...its a bit unconventional, but its totally us.

and then we went to prom. And it was awesome. We danced, we ate, we sang. I loved it. and i love my friends. You guys are the BEST :)

Confession #7: I've got some pretty big dreams.

2010-03-20T14:31:00.000-07:00

Have you ever sat on your roof on a dark, windy night and just stayed there, staring at the stars and wondering just what your future holds? no? well, I have. Often, actually. Sometimes I just like to sit and dream; dream about college, family, a mission, marriage, success, children...but this time, it was different for me. I didn't dream. I cried. Why? Just look at these pictures...

School, marriage, family...they are all important. But the more I learn about these kinds of things, about war, poverty, abuse (I have IB to thank for that), the more I realize that I somehow have to find a way to help out. How? I don't quite know. I plan on joining the Peace Corps once I get my bachelors degree....the only problem with that is that I also want to serve an LDS mission AND I want to go to grad school AND I want to have a family...but I can't quite figure out what is more important. Here's what I do know: there are so many families out there in the world that with $3 they can eat for a month. FOR A MONTH! and they dont even have that. Thats, like, pocket change to most of us. There are so many kids suffering and being neglected right at this very moment. I feel so useless, so ungrateful and so powerless. I want to do something about it, but I just don't know how. Not knowing how is giving me anxiety and I'm starting to get a little desperate. And that is why I cried, because I have some pretty big dreams that seem near impossible.

Confession #6: I Loved When in Rome

2010-03-02T14:38:00.000-08:00

So I saw When In Rome the other day and I decided it is my FAVORITE movie in the whole entire universe of chick flicks! Josh Duhamel is my future husband. No joke. Some people think its disgustingly cheasy....and well, it is. But I personally love cheasy movies that make every girl dream about prince charming...and, even if he doesnt exist, its nice to live vicariously through the lives of some of these characters. So anyway, if you haven't watched it then you should.

Confession #5: There is no Such Thing as Positive Stress

2010-02-23T19:45:00.000-08:00

I have always been told that there is positive stress and negative stress. Positive stress supposedly helps you be motivated to get things done. Well you know what? I have come to the conclusion that there is no such thing as positive stress. It is a lie. This week has been the most stressful week of my life. I have to finish my 4000 word extended essay, my 2000 word historical assessment, my evil math test that makes no sense whatsoever, I have to turn in my CAS service hours and completed paper work, i have to correct my World Lit. essay for english+ write a page about the book we've been reading (Black Boy by Richard Wright...read it if you get the chance. It is great!) do my reading for history, and excuse AND make up my french absences and (FINALLY) finish my biology homework. I honestly don't know how I am going to get through the rest of the school year...

Can i just graduate already? This is what happens when you are an over acheiver with no life at all. :(

Until next time!!!
Ellie

Confession #4: I Love My Nephews More Than Life

2010-02-20T08:52:00.000-08:00

If you know me well, then you know that my nephews are my favorite people in the whole entire world. If I could kidnap them and keep them with me forever....well, I probably would. That being said, I had them sleep over last night. I put in a movie, gave them some treats, and when it was time for bed I kissed them goodnight. When I went back to check on them, this is what i saw...

Sean was half on top of Andy!!!! I thought it was too funny...so of course I HAD to take a picture...

Later, when i came in to check on them again...I found this!

This one really made me crack up! Poor Andy had to smell Sean's stinky feet for a while there....
The last time I checked on them, I found them in the most archangelic position...

Tell me that isn't cute??? Now you know why I adore these two. They make me laugh even when they're sleeping!

Until next time!
Ellie

Confession #3: I Got a Full Ride Scholarship to Westminster College

2010-02-19T18:18:00.000-08:00

I just recently found a copy of my SOMOS Scholarship essay that I sent in this last September. Many people have asked me if they could read it and so I am posting it here for anyone thats interested. This is a REALLY rough draft (and by rough i mean ROUGH! It's full of grammatical errors and run on/fragment sentences. I lost the final draft...it was saved on my computer hard-drive, which my father cleared without telling me...but that's a story for another day...) of it.
So anyway, here it is...read it at your own risk

Ever since I was a little girl, my parents taught me to dream. Everything was possible, the world was waiting for me to make decisions and grab hold to the many opportunities that were waiting for me. Nothing was beyond my reach, so I grew up with BIG dreams.

I was an inquisitive child. Always asking questions, always wanting to know why. I needed to know, I couldn’t rest until I knew the answer to all my question! In fact, at the end of 4th grade, my teacher gave me the award “Miss. Why”. For me, learning is what I love to do. It defines me. It is what wakes me up at 5:30 every single morning. It is what has inspired me to take the toughest classes that Provo High has to offer. Knowledge is invaluable to me. Nothing can ever top the feeling I get when I understand something.

However, learning hasn’t always been easy for me. Math has been a struggle, and with two parents working all day in order to maintain us “financially stable,” I couldn’t get much help at home. Every day in middle school I had to go in for lunch and get help or ask my friends to explain my impossible math homework. This is what separates me from most other teenagers my age: I get things done, I work hard and I somehow make everything work out in the end. I am determined to change my life and to change my parents life as well. They sacrifice so much for me, and sometimes I don’t think I say ‘thank you’ enough.

In the 10th grade, my family moved from Provo to South Jordan. To say I was devastated is an understatement. I was planning on starting my International Baccalaureate Diploma my junior year. I knew that this was the best education I could receive in high school and that if I didn’t do it I would be missing one of the best opportunities of my life. After much begging and pleading, I somehow managed to convince my parents to let me continue to go there. Every morning I get up and travel the 27 or so miles to go to school. My dad drives me every single morning to a bus stop on his way to work. When I said my parents sacrificed much for me, I wasn’t using the term loosely.

Provo High has offered me so many opportunities and options. Not only does it have the best educational program (i.e. International Baccalaureate), but it also has many other opportunities as well. In the 10th grade I took a class called ‘Latino’s in Action’. The Latino students who join go every other day to an elementary and middle schools to help other Latino students that speak little English and are struggling with school. It was empowering to help other students and to know that because of you, they might have a completely different outlook on education.

Provo High also has numerous clubs. I have been French club president since freshman year and have loved every minute of it. I am also involved with Arabic club, M.E.S.A, F.B.L.A, F.C.C.L.A, and C.A.S club. Outside of school I volunteer at the South Jordan Library and am a current member of my church choir. Being involved in so many after school activities has helped me become more social and over come my weakness: being shy.

Like I mentioned earlier, education is one of the most important part of who I am. I am taking six I.B classes. Even though I love every minute of every class, I wont lie and say that it’s easy. I have homework that takes up almost all of my time every single day. However, I know it will be worth it. I plan on attending a great university after high school because i want to continue with the best education possible. I am going to major in psychology, get great grades, study for the MCAT and get a top score, so that I can go to medical school at Yale University. I know it wont be easy, but I also know that I will do it.

In closing, I want to explain why I, Elizabeth Cohen, am the best candidate for the U.B.H.L scholarship. I will do whatever it takes to get a higher education. I am determined, ambitious and intelligent. I never quit and won’t start now. I have what most other students don’t have and that is a passion for knowledge. I am honest and a hard worker. If you choose me, you can rest assured you that you wont be let down.

Thank you for this opportunity,

Elizabeth Cohen

So that's it folks!

Until Next time!
xoxoxoxo
Ellie

Confession # 2: I am a sucker for period films

2010-02-19T11:13:00.000-08:00

I think the title of this section basically gives it all away. I love period films (and of course the novels that came before them. Nevertheless, i assume that most people would rather watch the movie than read the book, or at least watch the movie first before reading the book). Their is something about the dresses, the formal language, and the sappy love stories that get me EVERY SINGLE TIME! I don't know why I am this way. I mean, I'm Hispanic. My parents don't even know who Jane Austen is. Gabriel Maria Marquez? Of course! He's Colombian! Charlotte Brontë...not so much. I mean, she's British. So, anyway, I am convinced I am adopted (lol).
But really, period films are amazing, and if you get the time, I hope you can enjoy some of these.

Let us begin with Jane Austen...

Charlotte and Emily Brontë:

Elizabeth Gaskell

L.M. Montgomery:

Shakespeare:

Other Random Period Films...

So, here are some of my favorite. I am sure i will think of more and will have to update this post several times :)

Until next time xoxoxoxoxox
Ellie

Confession #1: Time Hates Us

2010-02-18T10:27:00.000-08:00

So, I have been looking over some pictures of me as a freshman and I realized that time has no sympathy. None. It goes by way too fast and leaves us wondering things like "wait... am I really 18? Last time i checked i was starting high school and had a mega ugly problem...." Well, that's what happened to me. Maybe you guys haven't really gone through that, but mark my words: one day it will hit you. Anyway, I am putting up some pictures from the time I was wee child till now (my younger pictures are mostly b-day pics).

This is me as a baby...

My 3rd Birthday-My sisters were like my second moms...gotta love them

My Grandma Mercy and I. I haven't seen her in a few years...I miss her

My cousin Daniela and I. I love that girl.

My 8th Birthday. From left to right-Eduardo, Laura, Me, Daniela, Albert, Cata, and my Ant Evelyn.

My Grandma, my Ant Myra and my Great Grandma Esperanza.
She passed on last year and i wont ever forget my time with her.

And then we moved to UTAH.

We were retarded. But we were retarded together.
lol.
Tania and I. My bestie...I dont see or talk to her as often as I wish I could.

Freshmen. We couldn't help it! lol can you tell this was the "awkward" phase?

Italy. Daniela and I posing in front of the Trevi Fountain.

The Fam. Trying to look all sophisticated in Santa Barbara.

We are not obsessed. We are regular teenage girls that simply cannot resist that gorgeous face.
Kathlene, me, and Dani

My Besties.

Okay. So this was random. However, wouldnt you agree that time is moving WAY to fast? I mean, I'm 18 and graduating from HIGH SCHOOL! this is crazy. Time really has no sympathy. why can't it just slooooow down?

Until next time! xoxoxo

Ellie