I am a freshman and have gained some weight, but contrary to your thinking I am not going to discuss gaining fifteen pounds. Instead I've compiled a list of 15 things that due to moving away to college I am more grateful for. Let's begin.
#1:
Netflix. Honestly what did we do before we had it?! I've found many documentaries and independent films I would have never found without it.
#2:
Telephones. I cannot imagine what I would do if I was not able to talk to my family back home, or get my roommates to get out of bed and let me in the apartment at night.
#3:
Our Garden. This weekend we were in the backyard in the garden and my dad said, "I've never had a harvest as abundant as this." Although my siblings and I mercilessly mocked his choice of words, it is true! We've got crops upon crops and we're loving it!
#4:
Missions. Three of my close friends received their mission calls on Wednesday, and I am so insanely excited for them! Now nearly all of my friends have received their mission calls, or are submitting their papers. I cannot express how proud I am of those that give of themselves and choose to serve God. They are such a great examples to me. I love missionaries and cannot wait to write and support all these amazing Elders!
#5:
BEHS. I could not have had a more perfect high school experience and I accredit that to being a Box Elder Bee. My heart pities those who did not go to BEHS, for it is the friendliest, most wonderful, happiest place on earth.
"cheers for all the happy hours, cheers for the memories, cheers for Alma Mater, Box Elder shall it be always!"
#6:
The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. I've come to realize and appreciate the happiness and security this gospel me in my life. A close friend of mine got baptized this past Thursday and I am so excited for her to experience all the amazing blessings that come from being a member of this church. I believe it, I love it, I live it.
#7:
Naps. This needs no further explanation.
#8:
Pinterest. I have this heaven sent site to thank for everything good in my life practically. Okay not really, but it provides me with yummy dinners, and is to blame for my impulsive online purchases (all of which have been great decisions).
#9:
Hot Showers. I stand by my belief that there is nothing a steamy shower cannot fix. Plus the doctor really ordered it! It clears out your sinuses and is just makes you feel good inside.
#10:
Yoga. In my mind I am a total earthy guru who only eats organic, is a member of every environmentalist club on campus, and loves yoga. Realistically I am none of these things but the last. I love getting up in the morning and going to my yoga class. I'm a total believer in it! (Ashley and I thought our "double down dog" pose looked so cool so we took a picture. Realistically it looks really silly which makes the picture even funnier).
#11:
My Truck. Although I've had some rough spells with it lately, (had to replace the alternator - 500 dollars later.. and it gets an impressive 15 mpg) I am so overly spoiled to have a vehicle to drive. It makes the 165.7 miles between college and home feel not so long.
#12:
My Friends. This weekend I got together with a bunch of my friends from high school and I didn't ever realize what great individuals they are. Just solid wonderful humans. I LOVE being around them! Although we are all living different lives in different parts of the state, it is so comforting to come home and feel as if nothing has changed.
#13:
Eighties Movies. But really they are the greatest.
Better Off Dead, Say Anything, Sixteen Candles, Breakfast Club, Dirty Dancing, Can't Buy Me Love, etc etc etc. John Cusack is the heartthrob of my life. I just ordered my own copies of these and I CANNOT wait until they arrive.
#14:
Autumn. How sad it must be to live in a place where they don't get seasons like Utah does. I cannot get enough of the mountains, the changing leaves, and the brisk fall air. What is not to love? Autumn brings pumpkin bread, hot chocolate, soup, and apple cider. Not to mention hats, boots, coats, scarfs, and flannels! I say this every time a new season rolls around, but I really think fall is my favorite.
#15:
MY FAMILY. I think they get more awesome and more wonderful every time I see them. This fall break all of us were home which I feel like hasn't happened for many many months. I cannot get over how great and beyond blessed I am to have the family that I do. My parents are the most loving and caring people I have ever met. Although my family is FAR from perfect there is nothing I would ever change about them, and we always manage to have the greatest time when we are together. Now that we are older and most have moved out of the house, we appreciate the time that we do get to spend together and it is so dear and precious to me. My heart is full and I love my life.
