Showing posts with label 30 days. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 30 days. Show all posts
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
DAY 28 - Gentry
Official Topic: Someone That Changed My Life
My Take: Someone So Awesome They Made Me Look at My Life and Commit to be Better
Gentry was one of my kids my first week as an EFY counselor this summer. When the girls and the boys first met together, I thought he was going to be one of those talkative take-over types who thought they were so cool. I'm so glad I was wrong.
Dear Gentry,
I already wrote you a note thanking you for your great example, but constantly looking back on that week at EFY only reinforces my desire to become better. Thank you for stepping forward to lead the group, but making each and every one of your fellow participants feel important. You were reliable and caring and wise beyond your years.
At the Thursday night testimony meeting, it was a result of a rare strike of luck that our company was placed in a room alone, just us. I remember that when you bore your testimony, you cried. I so wanted to bear mine, and I've never had that strong of a feeling before, so when a Field Coordinator who was in just listening to our testimony meeting told us counselors we could get up, I jumped up first. I cried the whole way through, too. I don't think my eyes were dry once during the whole meeting.
But what really spikes in my memory is as we were leaving the building to return to our rooms for the night. I thanked you for your testimony, and you laughed a little and said something about if I could have even heard it, since you were crying. I told you that I could feel it, and placed my hand over my heart. My eyes welled up again as you told me you could feel my testimony, too, even before I bore it.
I guess you were just the right combination of assurance and encouragement that I needed right then. Once again, the teacher learns more than the student.
Thanks for coming that week, Gentry. Thanks for showing me what kind of person God wants us to be. Thank you for showing me that living the gospel is the most exciting and invigorating thing I could do with my life. Thank you for making me want to be better.
Sincerely,
Hilary
My Take: Someone So Awesome They Made Me Look at My Life and Commit to be Better
Gentry was one of my kids my first week as an EFY counselor this summer. When the girls and the boys first met together, I thought he was going to be one of those talkative take-over types who thought they were so cool. I'm so glad I was wrong.
Dear Gentry,
I already wrote you a note thanking you for your great example, but constantly looking back on that week at EFY only reinforces my desire to become better. Thank you for stepping forward to lead the group, but making each and every one of your fellow participants feel important. You were reliable and caring and wise beyond your years.
At the Thursday night testimony meeting, it was a result of a rare strike of luck that our company was placed in a room alone, just us. I remember that when you bore your testimony, you cried. I so wanted to bear mine, and I've never had that strong of a feeling before, so when a Field Coordinator who was in just listening to our testimony meeting told us counselors we could get up, I jumped up first. I cried the whole way through, too. I don't think my eyes were dry once during the whole meeting.
But what really spikes in my memory is as we were leaving the building to return to our rooms for the night. I thanked you for your testimony, and you laughed a little and said something about if I could have even heard it, since you were crying. I told you that I could feel it, and placed my hand over my heart. My eyes welled up again as you told me you could feel my testimony, too, even before I bore it.
I guess you were just the right combination of assurance and encouragement that I needed right then. Once again, the teacher learns more than the student.
Thanks for coming that week, Gentry. Thanks for showing me what kind of person God wants us to be. Thank you for showing me that living the gospel is the most exciting and invigorating thing I could do with my life. Thank you for making me want to be better.
Sincerely,
Hilary
Monday, September 27, 2010
DAY 27 - Peter
Official Topic: The Friendliest Person I Knew For Only One Day
I'm Gonna Say: The Friendliest Person I Knew For Only One Week
Note: "Peter" needs to be said in a sort of a wailing British accent, รก la Chronicles of Narnia. Also, Peter was one of my fellow counselors in EFY Week 2.
Dear Co-co,
Thanks for being so nice to me. Our Sunday night meeting before we found out our co-counselors ("Co-co"s, as you like to call them), you were sitting right behind me. You were really friendly with the people sitting next to you, and I remember thinking (without turning around), "I want that guy to be my counselor." But, since I never get the people I think I will, I didn't wish too hard. But alas, I was so pumped when we were in the same company! You never stopped smiling, and your investment in the kids made each one of them feel special.
Our "date" made my week, and chicken strips and ice cream was never so enjoyable (ok, so ice cream is really enjoyable all the time, but you know). Thanks for sharing your amazing photography skills with us that week and showing us how to have fun. Your example showed each of the boys how to enjoy the gospel and still have man-cred, and showed each of the girls what kind of man they deserved.
I will never forget your kindness or the spirit you brought to that week. Or that time I stole Whitney's backpack because I thought it was yours. Or when Kirstin took that picture... or how you danced with each one of our girls. Or how hard you searched for Kylie's last name.
I know you are doing great things literally all over the world. I hope you will be able to return to EFY next year!
Sincerely,
Hilary
I'm Gonna Say: The Friendliest Person I Knew For Only One Week
Note: "Peter" needs to be said in a sort of a wailing British accent, รก la Chronicles of Narnia. Also, Peter was one of my fellow counselors in EFY Week 2.
Dear Co-co,
Thanks for being so nice to me. Our Sunday night meeting before we found out our co-counselors ("Co-co"s, as you like to call them), you were sitting right behind me. You were really friendly with the people sitting next to you, and I remember thinking (without turning around), "I want that guy to be my counselor." But, since I never get the people I think I will, I didn't wish too hard. But alas, I was so pumped when we were in the same company! You never stopped smiling, and your investment in the kids made each one of them feel special.
Our "date" made my week, and chicken strips and ice cream was never so enjoyable (ok, so ice cream is really enjoyable all the time, but you know). Thanks for sharing your amazing photography skills with us that week and showing us how to have fun. Your example showed each of the boys how to enjoy the gospel and still have man-cred, and showed each of the girls what kind of man they deserved.
I will never forget your kindness or the spirit you brought to that week. Or that time I stole Whitney's backpack because I thought it was yours. Or when Kirstin took that picture... or how you danced with each one of our girls. Or how hard you searched for Kylie's last name.
I know you are doing great things literally all over the world. I hope you will be able to return to EFY next year!
Sincerely,
Hilary
Sunday, September 26, 2010
DAY 26 - Haleigh
What's Going Down: The Last Person I Made a Pinky Promise To
Dearest Haleigh,
Even though you can be the most annoying person I have ever beheld, I love you. I really do. And I am really grateful I've gotten better at that these past few years.
Can I just say some things that are awesome:
- Dancing and singing in the car together
- Driving you places
- Eating our vitamins together
- Talking about high school together
- Eating dinner that you made
- Emptying the dishwasher for Mom together
- Hearing you answer questions and realized that you've grown up.
I hope you can see that I've been trying to become a better sister. Because you're hilarious, and I love you. Even when you're ridiculous.
Love Always,
Hilary
P.S. And you better be keeping that pinky promise we made! I've heard you're doing all right. =)
Dearest Haleigh,
Even though you can be the most annoying person I have ever beheld, I love you. I really do. And I am really grateful I've gotten better at that these past few years.
Can I just say some things that are awesome:
- Dancing and singing in the car together
- Driving you places
- Eating our vitamins together
- Talking about high school together
- Eating dinner that you made
- Emptying the dishwasher for Mom together
- Hearing you answer questions and realized that you've grown up.
I hope you can see that I've been trying to become a better sister. Because you're hilarious, and I love you. Even when you're ridiculous.
Love Always,
Hilary
P.S. And you better be keeping that pinky promise we made! I've heard you're doing all right. =)
Saturday, September 25, 2010
DAY 25 - Grandma & Grandpa
Official Topic: The Person I Know Who is Going Through the Worst of Times
My Take: The People I Know Who are Going Through a Really Hard Time
Many years ago now, my Grandma Loray was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. She quickly was unable to walk or do anything for herself. For the past eight plus years, my Grandpa Gary has been taking care of her every need, from placing her in her wheelchair to adjusting her glasses when they droop down her nose.
Dear Grandma and Grandpa,
Thank you for your great examples. Even though I have seen the pain this situation has caused you both, I see more often how you both still do what you can to enjoy life. You each make the most of every day together.
Grandpa, I have never heard you complain. I know that being the primary caregiver for someone who can do very little can be very frustrating, but you still smile and laugh every day. Your faithfulness and willingness to serve, not only Grandma but the Lord through your weekly temple service and calling as patriarch, always comes to my mind whenever I am tired or fed up. (It doesn't hurt that you also look a lot like President Monson.)
Grandma, I admire how you do what you still can to learn and grow and keep your vibrant mind fresh. I have learned now that any annoyances you show to us is a pittance to the annoyance you must feel being trapped inside your own body. I am sorry I have not appreciated your sacrifices and love enough.
I love you both, and I am honored to have grandparents like you. Thank you for raising my mom so she could have me.
Love,
Hilary
My Take: The People I Know Who are Going Through a Really Hard Time
Many years ago now, my Grandma Loray was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis. She quickly was unable to walk or do anything for herself. For the past eight plus years, my Grandpa Gary has been taking care of her every need, from placing her in her wheelchair to adjusting her glasses when they droop down her nose.
Dear Grandma and Grandpa,
Thank you for your great examples. Even though I have seen the pain this situation has caused you both, I see more often how you both still do what you can to enjoy life. You each make the most of every day together.
Grandpa, I have never heard you complain. I know that being the primary caregiver for someone who can do very little can be very frustrating, but you still smile and laugh every day. Your faithfulness and willingness to serve, not only Grandma but the Lord through your weekly temple service and calling as patriarch, always comes to my mind whenever I am tired or fed up. (It doesn't hurt that you also look a lot like President Monson.)
Grandma, I admire how you do what you still can to learn and grow and keep your vibrant mind fresh. I have learned now that any annoyances you show to us is a pittance to the annoyance you must feel being trapped inside your own body. I am sorry I have not appreciated your sacrifices and love enough.
I love you both, and I am honored to have grandparents like you. Thank you for raising my mom so she could have me.
Love,
Hilary
Friday, September 24, 2010
DAY 24 - Mr. Flohre
To: The Person That Gave Me My Favorite Memory
Mr. Flohre was my band director in high school (not a date to a school dance, as I've been asked before as a result of the picture below. bahaha). He also hired me this summer to help out at band camp.
Mr. Flohre,
I am so grateful I had you for a teacher, and for a friend (even if you are really slow at answering emails. even though you check them all the time...). Thank you for letting me crash in your office every morning, every afternoon, and when I didn't feel right. Looking back now, I was a very pushy and needy high schooler, but you put up with it. I was astonished at some of the things I did back then, but thanks for not hating me.
I think back to the time I was in Seussical. You said you weren't going to be able to make it to the show, and I thought that was so lame! That show was like, the pinnacle of my achievement (or something). But the next school day after the shows, you subtly said something about our performance, and I knew that you had gone. You sneaked in, you sneaked out, but you came, and that made me truly happy.
Your Music Theory class was both the hardest and most rewarding class I've ever taken. I loved our tiny group, and even though being put on the spot scared me out of my mind, I learned a lot. I learned how to take confidence in what I was good at, and how to work at the things I wasn't. I learned that all things wouldn't come easy to me, and that was just fine.
Thanks for caring about your job, and your students. Thanks for giving me a place in the band program. That's exactly what I needed those long years of high school. And working at band camp was exactly what I needed this past summer.
Sincerely,
Hilary
P.S. A minor seventh is still my favorite interval.
P.P.S. I still think you making us put up devil horns every time you played the devil's tone was lame.
Mr. Flohre was my band director in high school (not a date to a school dance, as I've been asked before as a result of the picture below. bahaha). He also hired me this summer to help out at band camp.
Mr. Flohre,
I am so grateful I had you for a teacher, and for a friend (even if you are really slow at answering emails. even though you check them all the time...). Thank you for letting me crash in your office every morning, every afternoon, and when I didn't feel right. Looking back now, I was a very pushy and needy high schooler, but you put up with it. I was astonished at some of the things I did back then, but thanks for not hating me.
I think back to the time I was in Seussical. You said you weren't going to be able to make it to the show, and I thought that was so lame! That show was like, the pinnacle of my achievement (or something). But the next school day after the shows, you subtly said something about our performance, and I knew that you had gone. You sneaked in, you sneaked out, but you came, and that made me truly happy.
Your Music Theory class was both the hardest and most rewarding class I've ever taken. I loved our tiny group, and even though being put on the spot scared me out of my mind, I learned a lot. I learned how to take confidence in what I was good at, and how to work at the things I wasn't. I learned that all things wouldn't come easy to me, and that was just fine.
Thanks for caring about your job, and your students. Thanks for giving me a place in the band program. That's exactly what I needed those long years of high school. And working at band camp was exactly what I needed this past summer.
Sincerely,
Hilary
P.S. A minor seventh is still my favorite interval.
P.P.S. I still think you making us put up devil horns every time you played the devil's tone was lame.
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
DAY 22 - Sacbut
The Daily Dish: Someone I Want to Give Another Chance To
Stephen (aka Sacbut - I know, it's awesome) happens to be the twin of Nick-Nac, and so was also a freshman my last year in band.
Dear Stephen,
You were the annoying one. Not gonna lie. But I think you knew that, because you've grown past it and become awesome. I was so surprised at how mature you had become when I worked at band camp this summer. You are still funny, just more appropriately so. And the way you took it upon yourself to help Rubio... we loved it. Although I still don't understand why you insisted on wearing arm weights all the time... but you and your bandit scarf were pretty great. And the time you and Mr. Flohre switched places will become a classic tale told for years to come. I'm impressed, Sacbut. You've grown up, and can I just say that I loved hanging out with you and Greg after the band banquet? It made me miss high school all over again.
Don't Mess It Up,
Hilary
Stephen (aka Sacbut - I know, it's awesome) happens to be the twin of Nick-Nac, and so was also a freshman my last year in band.
Dear Stephen,
You were the annoying one. Not gonna lie. But I think you knew that, because you've grown past it and become awesome. I was so surprised at how mature you had become when I worked at band camp this summer. You are still funny, just more appropriately so. And the way you took it upon yourself to help Rubio... we loved it. Although I still don't understand why you insisted on wearing arm weights all the time... but you and your bandit scarf were pretty great. And the time you and Mr. Flohre switched places will become a classic tale told for years to come. I'm impressed, Sacbut. You've grown up, and can I just say that I loved hanging out with you and Greg after the band banquet? It made me miss high school all over again.
Don't Mess It Up,
Hilary
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
DAY 21 - Matt J.
What's Going Down: Someone I Judged by Their First Impression
Matt was one of my kids my first week counseloring at EFY this summer. I wrote him a note after the week was over, but I don't think I have blogged about him yet.
Dear Matt,
You're probably proud of the first impression I had of you, but I am more proud of the person you truly are. When I saw your gauge earrings, your too-relaxed posture, and heard the side comments you made and the participation you withheld, I thought I knew you.
But for some reason I was drawn to you. Those things didn't turn me away, like they normally would. I am so grateful Heavenly Father gave me the patience to work hard on you. I loved hassling you, and the moment when you came up to me and asked me to help you find scriptures to study, my heart leapt. As cheesy as it sounds, I look back on that morning as one of the happiest of my life. Everything pinged into place for me at that moment, and I knew then that it was all true. The gospel is worth it.
You helped me more that week than I possibly helped you, Matt. I wanted this week of EFY to be different for you, and it was because you worked for it. Ivan and Abbie and the other kids and I helped a little along the way, but you did most it yourself. You let the change happen.
Comparing you on the first day and you on the last day just blows my mind. I've never been more happy to be wrong about something! Rock on.
Sincerely,
Hilary
Matt was one of my kids my first week counseloring at EFY this summer. I wrote him a note after the week was over, but I don't think I have blogged about him yet.
Dear Matt,
You're probably proud of the first impression I had of you, but I am more proud of the person you truly are. When I saw your gauge earrings, your too-relaxed posture, and heard the side comments you made and the participation you withheld, I thought I knew you.
But for some reason I was drawn to you. Those things didn't turn me away, like they normally would. I am so grateful Heavenly Father gave me the patience to work hard on you. I loved hassling you, and the moment when you came up to me and asked me to help you find scriptures to study, my heart leapt. As cheesy as it sounds, I look back on that morning as one of the happiest of my life. Everything pinged into place for me at that moment, and I knew then that it was all true. The gospel is worth it.
You helped me more that week than I possibly helped you, Matt. I wanted this week of EFY to be different for you, and it was because you worked for it. Ivan and Abbie and the other kids and I helped a little along the way, but you did most it yourself. You let the change happen.
Comparing you on the first day and you on the last day just blows my mind. I've never been more happy to be wrong about something! Rock on.
Sincerely,
Hilary
Monday, September 20, 2010
DAY 20 - Kyle
To: The Person That Broke My Heart the Hardest
I feel like my relationship with Kyle has taken up a huge part of my life. If I have not written much about him here, know that he has taken up more journal pages than anything else combined. But I have long dwelt on the unhappiness and the unfairness of it all, much too long. Nowadays I prefer to focus on the happiness of our relationship, and what I learned from it. I am grateful beyond words for Kyle, but I am also grateful that our time together is over. He taught me a lot, but it is from others I must learn now.
From my journal, after my first trip home from college since graduating high school:
January 4, 2009
... I saw Kyle and Greg, which was so wonderful. I think we all really needed to see each other and be physically reassured of our forgiveness for each other. I am so grateful that our friendship and love for each other was strong enough to push through this.
Kyle said something jokingly about how I didn't really want to see him at the end of last year, and I didn't lie. I agreed. I didn't really want to see him. But I really did this break and I think it was so good. We apologized for our bad things. I thought it was interesting... he apologized for being really antagonistic instead of loving towards the end, and he said he thought it was because he just didn't want me to leave. I didn't want to leave either... was that it? Was that why it happened? It broke my heart. Maybe subconsciously we thought it'd be easier to leave each other if we didn't like each other and were rude.
Anyways, then he said he didn't realize how much he missed me until he saw me again... I think it was the same for me. I knew I missed him a bunch, but knowing we've forgiven each other makes me miss him again now.
I feel like my relationship with Kyle has taken up a huge part of my life. If I have not written much about him here, know that he has taken up more journal pages than anything else combined. But I have long dwelt on the unhappiness and the unfairness of it all, much too long. Nowadays I prefer to focus on the happiness of our relationship, and what I learned from it. I am grateful beyond words for Kyle, but I am also grateful that our time together is over. He taught me a lot, but it is from others I must learn now.
From my journal, after my first trip home from college since graduating high school:
January 4, 2009
... I saw Kyle and Greg, which was so wonderful. I think we all really needed to see each other and be physically reassured of our forgiveness for each other. I am so grateful that our friendship and love for each other was strong enough to push through this.
Kyle said something jokingly about how I didn't really want to see him at the end of last year, and I didn't lie. I agreed. I didn't really want to see him. But I really did this break and I think it was so good. We apologized for our bad things. I thought it was interesting... he apologized for being really antagonistic instead of loving towards the end, and he said he thought it was because he just didn't want me to leave. I didn't want to leave either... was that it? Was that why it happened? It broke my heart. Maybe subconsciously we thought it'd be easier to leave each other if we didn't like each other and were rude.
Anyways, then he said he didn't realize how much he missed me until he saw me again... I think it was the same for me. I knew I missed him a bunch, but knowing we've forgiven each other makes me miss him again now.
Sunday, September 19, 2010
DAY 19 - Nick-Nac
What's Happenin': Someone That Pesters My Mind - Good or Bad
My Take: Someone That Pestered My Mind For a Few Weeks (In a Weird Way)
Nick-Nac is the nick(haha)name given to my friend Nick my senior year during band. He was a freshman. (And btw, his initials are NAC.) When I returned as a band camp assistant this past summer, Nick was now a senior. A mightily matured senior, I might add. What do you call those things that aren't really crushes because they're totally ridiculous? I may or may not have had one of those on Nick. And I don't feel as bad, because even our band director admitted he had a man-crush on him. Or maybe it was a bromance. But he said it.
Maybe it was his dang awesome talent. Or how he didn't seek after praise or leadership positions, just went along doing his best day after day. Just did what we asked, no talking back. He constantly strived to be better. Ok, maybe it was just his tanned, muscular physique. (bahaha)
Whatever it was, I'm relieved it's over. I feel less creepy now.
My Take: Someone That Pestered My Mind For a Few Weeks (In a Weird Way)
Nick-Nac is the nick(haha)name given to my friend Nick my senior year during band. He was a freshman. (And btw, his initials are NAC.) When I returned as a band camp assistant this past summer, Nick was now a senior. A mightily matured senior, I might add. What do you call those things that aren't really crushes because they're totally ridiculous? I may or may not have had one of those on Nick. And I don't feel as bad, because even our band director admitted he had a man-crush on him. Or maybe it was a bromance. But he said it.
Maybe it was his dang awesome talent. Or how he didn't seek after praise or leadership positions, just went along doing his best day after day. Just did what we asked, no talking back. He constantly strived to be better. Ok, maybe it was just his tanned, muscular physique. (bahaha)
Whatever it was, I'm relieved it's over. I feel less creepy now.
Saturday, September 18, 2010
DAY 18 - Alternate Universe Me
The Person I Wish I Could Be:
Invictus
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 gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll.
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.
by William Ernest Henley
Invictus
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 gate,
How charged with punishments the scroll.
I am the master of my fate:
I am the captain of my soul.
by William Ernest Henley
Friday, September 17, 2010
DAY 17 - Mrs. Moody
This is It: Someone From My Childhood
Dear Mrs. Moody,
You probably don't remember me. In fact, I'm 99% sure you don't remember me, because I've seen you since elementary school and you didn't recognize me (or maybe I'm just not as cool as I think I am. Doubtful, but I feel like I should account for that possiblity).
But here's what I remember about you and your class I loved going to throughout elementary school:
- You testing me when I was in Kindergarten. We were sitting at one of the tables in the cafeteria and I had to put little orange and green shapes together to make bigger shapes.
- You giving me math problems to solve, like this one:
l l a m a
+ t i g e r
---------
I still don't know I did that.
- Making a poster with the different animal life (or something) at a beach, and gluing sand to it.
- Dissecting a frog, and losing the eyeball on the floor, where it probably still is somewhere.
- Having a tea party after reading about Paddington Bear, but you said I could leave my cup turned over at my place since I wasn't allowed to have tea.
- Writing journals as if we were a traveler on the Oregon Trail. And I rolled a five and so my wagon burned up, but my friend Kassidy said I could share her wagon. That's why I'm scared of the number 5.
- Being so grateful that you were my CREATE teacher instead of that "mean" other lady at the other elementary schools.
Thanks for making my childhood so fun. I hope I can be half the great influence that you were on my future students.
Sincerely,
Hilary
Dear Mrs. Moody,
You probably don't remember me. In fact, I'm 99% sure you don't remember me, because I've seen you since elementary school and you didn't recognize me (or maybe I'm just not as cool as I think I am. Doubtful, but I feel like I should account for that possiblity).
But here's what I remember about you and your class I loved going to throughout elementary school:
- You testing me when I was in Kindergarten. We were sitting at one of the tables in the cafeteria and I had to put little orange and green shapes together to make bigger shapes.
- You giving me math problems to solve, like this one:
l l a m a
+ t i g e r
---------
I still don't know I did that.
- Making a poster with the different animal life (or something) at a beach, and gluing sand to it.
- Dissecting a frog, and losing the eyeball on the floor, where it probably still is somewhere.
- Having a tea party after reading about Paddington Bear, but you said I could leave my cup turned over at my place since I wasn't allowed to have tea.
- Writing journals as if we were a traveler on the Oregon Trail. And I rolled a five and so my wagon burned up, but my friend Kassidy said I could share her wagon. That's why I'm scared of the number 5.
- Being so grateful that you were my CREATE teacher instead of that "mean" other lady at the other elementary schools.
Thanks for making my childhood so fun. I hope I can be half the great influence that you were on my future students.
Sincerely,
Hilary
Thursday, September 16, 2010
DAY 16 - Aunt Lesli
What's Up Today: Someone That's Not in My State
Dear Aunt Lesli,
You are the bomb. Whenever I talk about you I always refer to you as my "cool aunt." Not that my other aunts aren't cool, you're just the best. I may not agree with some of your ideas, but I totally respect you for how you discuss them. You don't put anyone down or act mean just for the sake of being mean. You care about people and only want the best for them.
You create an atmosphere of total comfort and safety. I know that I can talk about anything with you and you will treat me as an intelligent, sane adult. I remember when I was younger you would take us on shopping trips, and I always felt so bad saying I didn't like something you picked out for me. But you taught me that it was ok to be my own person and share my own opinions. Even though it's still hard for me, I now feel much more comfortable saying, "no" or "that's not me." Because you helped me be brave enough to be who I am.
Thank you for making me feel special. Anything I say to you, you listen to with pleasure. You make sure to spend time with each of your nieces and nephews. Even though you are far away, I always know of your love for me. I am so grateful for the life-lasting influence you have had on my life by showing me how to love others, how to love life, and how to love me.
Love,
Hilary
Dear Aunt Lesli,
You are the bomb. Whenever I talk about you I always refer to you as my "cool aunt." Not that my other aunts aren't cool, you're just the best. I may not agree with some of your ideas, but I totally respect you for how you discuss them. You don't put anyone down or act mean just for the sake of being mean. You care about people and only want the best for them.
You create an atmosphere of total comfort and safety. I know that I can talk about anything with you and you will treat me as an intelligent, sane adult. I remember when I was younger you would take us on shopping trips, and I always felt so bad saying I didn't like something you picked out for me. But you taught me that it was ok to be my own person and share my own opinions. Even though it's still hard for me, I now feel much more comfortable saying, "no" or "that's not me." Because you helped me be brave enough to be who I am.
Thank you for making me feel special. Anything I say to you, you listen to with pleasure. You make sure to spend time with each of your nieces and nephews. Even though you are far away, I always know of your love for me. I am so grateful for the life-lasting influence you have had on my life by showing me how to love others, how to love life, and how to love me.
Love,
Hilary
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
DAY 15 - Kristian
Official Topic: The Person I Miss the Most
My Take: Someone I Miss a Lot
Again, in the interest of not talking about Kurt every other day, I've chosen instead to alter this post to be about one of the many people I miss. I will try my best to make this post about Kristian different than my past post. (What can I say? He's just so awesome my blog gets to hear about him twice.)
Dearest Kristian,
I don't know what it is about you, but we all just love you. Sometimes we hate you (sorry about that one time, we were angry), but mostly we love you. For me, there's something that just draws me in. Maybe it's the enigma of who you are, what you think, and what you'll say next.
Thanks for being so smart, and making me laugh, and especially for making me think. You don't let anyone around you coast through life without thinking about the important things, and that's a gift. I love how you know people better than they know their own selves. I love hearing, "Hilary, I thought you'd like this," because sure enough, you are right every time.
There's so many more times than the adventures I listed in last semester's post that I still love to look back on. Thanks for being a good friend, Kristian. I'm glad we could bond in the way that only people who annoy each other but still care can. And don't worry, I've become a stellar letter writer to missionaries. I even have this sweet thing to send you that I've had for more than a year. I hope you'll like it (I'm not as good as predicting those things as you are).
Love,
Hilary
P.S. Yes, I know this photo makes me look ridiculous, but that's how we are. Me, making a fool of myself; and you, looking at me strangely. And yet we're still friends.
My Take: Someone I Miss a Lot
Again, in the interest of not talking about Kurt every other day, I've chosen instead to alter this post to be about one of the many people I miss. I will try my best to make this post about Kristian different than my past post. (What can I say? He's just so awesome my blog gets to hear about him twice.)
Dearest Kristian,
I don't know what it is about you, but we all just love you. Sometimes we hate you (sorry about that one time, we were angry), but mostly we love you. For me, there's something that just draws me in. Maybe it's the enigma of who you are, what you think, and what you'll say next.
Thanks for being so smart, and making me laugh, and especially for making me think. You don't let anyone around you coast through life without thinking about the important things, and that's a gift. I love how you know people better than they know their own selves. I love hearing, "Hilary, I thought you'd like this," because sure enough, you are right every time.
There's so many more times than the adventures I listed in last semester's post that I still love to look back on. Thanks for being a good friend, Kristian. I'm glad we could bond in the way that only people who annoy each other but still care can. And don't worry, I've become a stellar letter writer to missionaries. I even have this sweet thing to send you that I've had for more than a year. I hope you'll like it (I'm not as good as predicting those things as you are).
Love,
Hilary
P.S. Yes, I know this photo makes me look ridiculous, but that's how we are. Me, making a fool of myself; and you, looking at me strangely. And yet we're still friends.
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
DAY 14 - Lorraine
Today's Subject: Someone I've Drifted Away From
Dear Lorraine,
I'm so glad you were willing to be my friend. Later in high school we already started parting ways, but I will always be thankful for the time and love you gave to me. You were always by my side and willing to help me. You let me vent and always supported me, even when your trials and disappointments were bigger than my own.
I am sad that we have gone our separate ways, but we have become two separate people. I loved the years we spent together, but I know that we each have a different person we need to become. Thank you for driving me everywhere, fixing my hair for dances, making delicious cakes, and making sure I had a fun high school career. I hope you are doing what you love!
Sincerely,
Hilary
Dear Lorraine,
I'm so glad you were willing to be my friend. Later in high school we already started parting ways, but I will always be thankful for the time and love you gave to me. You were always by my side and willing to help me. You let me vent and always supported me, even when your trials and disappointments were bigger than my own.
I am sad that we have gone our separate ways, but we have become two separate people. I loved the years we spent together, but I know that we each have a different person we need to become. Thank you for driving me everywhere, fixing my hair for dances, making delicious cakes, and making sure I had a fun high school career. I hope you are doing what you love!
Sincerely,
Hilary
Monday, September 13, 2010
DAY 13 - Todd
The Challenge: Someone I Wish Could Forgive Me
Todd,
I am so sorry. I do not even know why I did what I did. I was selfish, scared, and didn't know what was happening between us. You were always the kindest person in the world to me, and I threw it all away. It was me, all me, and I know that now. You were always there, literally with a shoulder for me to lean on, and when I had to stay after school all alone you watched over me. You think I didn't see you, but I did. And I felt safe, and loved. Thank you for that.
I remember what you wrote in my senior yearbook. I haven't looked at it since the day you wrote it, but those words still come back to haunt me. That was the first real wake-up call of my whole life; thank you for that, too. It took guts to write that in my yearbook, but I know now that's right where it belongs. To remind me of who I was in high school; the part of the girl that I was not proud of. You taught me so much, but I was so afraid to say so. You set such a great example of kindness to me, & I am so ashamed I treated you so wrongly.
It was long ago, but still makes my heart ache at what hurt I must have caused you. I know I have no right to be forgiven for my blatant wrongs, but please know that I am sorry. Truly, I look back on my life and regret what I lost with you.
Thank you for having faith in me, though I did nothing to inspire it. Thank you for protecting me, when I shied away from it. Thank you for testing me, when I couldn't appreciate it. I miss you.
Most Sincerely,
Hilary
Todd,
I am so sorry. I do not even know why I did what I did. I was selfish, scared, and didn't know what was happening between us. You were always the kindest person in the world to me, and I threw it all away. It was me, all me, and I know that now. You were always there, literally with a shoulder for me to lean on, and when I had to stay after school all alone you watched over me. You think I didn't see you, but I did. And I felt safe, and loved. Thank you for that.
I remember what you wrote in my senior yearbook. I haven't looked at it since the day you wrote it, but those words still come back to haunt me. That was the first real wake-up call of my whole life; thank you for that, too. It took guts to write that in my yearbook, but I know now that's right where it belongs. To remind me of who I was in high school; the part of the girl that I was not proud of. You taught me so much, but I was so afraid to say so. You set such a great example of kindness to me, & I am so ashamed I treated you so wrongly.
It was long ago, but still makes my heart ache at what hurt I must have caused you. I know I have no right to be forgiven for my blatant wrongs, but please know that I am sorry. Truly, I look back on my life and regret what I lost with you.
Thank you for having faith in me, though I did nothing to inspire it. Thank you for protecting me, when I shied away from it. Thank you for testing me, when I couldn't appreciate it. I miss you.
Most Sincerely,
Hilary
Sunday, September 12, 2010
DAY 12 - Anonymous
Official Topic: The Person I Hate Most/Caused Me a Lot of Pain
My Take: Someone That Caused Me a Lot of Pain (Sometimes Literally)
From my journal:
April 9, 2009
OH MY GOSH. WHY DO YOU HAVE TO CONTROL EVERYTHING AND FEEL LIKE YOU ARE IN CHARGE OF PEOPLE'S LIVES? Is that what makes you feel loved and appreciated and accepted? IT IS SO ANNOYING WHEN YOU GET LIKE THIS.
UGH.
My Take: Someone That Caused Me a Lot of Pain (Sometimes Literally)
From my journal:
April 9, 2009
OH MY GOSH. WHY DO YOU HAVE TO CONTROL EVERYTHING AND FEEL LIKE YOU ARE IN CHARGE OF PEOPLE'S LIVES? Is that what makes you feel loved and appreciated and accepted? IT IS SO ANNOYING WHEN YOU GET LIKE THIS.
UGH.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
DAY 11 - Dallas Jr.
Today's Topic: A Deceased Person I Wish I Could Talk To
Dallas Jr. was my parents' first child. He was born in April I think about six years before I was. When he was born, the back part of his brain hadn't formed. That's part of the reason I think my Mom never saw him.
Dear Brother,
It feels so unreal typing that. Yet I also know that it is true... you're my brother. And I will hopefully get to meet you someday. I think we each have thought about you as motivation for us to endure to the end; because then we'll get to be with you.
I have defined myself as part of a group of sisters for so long, I wonder how I would be different if you had been able to grow up with us. How would each of us be different? I think you would have made us better. But maybe we needed to learn those things on our own or through other ways.
I often wonder how you are. What kind of music would you like? What kind of clothes would you wear? I can't wait to get to know who you are. I've thought of my dad as a father of girls for so long it'd be really interesting to see how he would have parented you. Would you be married by now? Would you have children? I hope all those things are or will be possible for you where you are.
I know you have many things to do in heaven, but sometimes I wonder if you look down on us once in a while. Did you wish you could grown up with us? played with us, celebrated with us, protected us? It's probably pretty great up there where you are, but I secretly hope that sometimes you have thought about us and wanted us like we want you. I can only imagine how joyful Mom and Dad will be when we finally meet you.
Whenever someone asks how many siblings I have, I always think of you. I used to say you, too, but after a while it was just a lot of explaining to do. I hope that's ok. I look forward to the first time I can really say that, and have us all be there. Our first real family reunion.
I'm trying. I love you!
Your Sister,
Hilary
Dallas Jr. was my parents' first child. He was born in April I think about six years before I was. When he was born, the back part of his brain hadn't formed. That's part of the reason I think my Mom never saw him.
Dear Brother,
It feels so unreal typing that. Yet I also know that it is true... you're my brother. And I will hopefully get to meet you someday. I think we each have thought about you as motivation for us to endure to the end; because then we'll get to be with you.
I have defined myself as part of a group of sisters for so long, I wonder how I would be different if you had been able to grow up with us. How would each of us be different? I think you would have made us better. But maybe we needed to learn those things on our own or through other ways.
I often wonder how you are. What kind of music would you like? What kind of clothes would you wear? I can't wait to get to know who you are. I've thought of my dad as a father of girls for so long it'd be really interesting to see how he would have parented you. Would you be married by now? Would you have children? I hope all those things are or will be possible for you where you are.
I know you have many things to do in heaven, but sometimes I wonder if you look down on us once in a while. Did you wish you could grown up with us? played with us, celebrated with us, protected us? It's probably pretty great up there where you are, but I secretly hope that sometimes you have thought about us and wanted us like we want you. I can only imagine how joyful Mom and Dad will be when we finally meet you.
Whenever someone asks how many siblings I have, I always think of you. I used to say you, too, but after a while it was just a lot of explaining to do. I hope that's ok. I look forward to the first time I can really say that, and have us all be there. Our first real family reunion.
I'm trying. I love you!
Your Sister,
Hilary
Friday, September 10, 2010
DAY 10 - JoAnna
Today's Topic: Someone I Don't Talk to As Much As I Like To
JoAnna is one of my friends from high school. We were in many of the same classes together, and most of the same afterschool clubs and activities together. I considered her somewhat of an honorary band member, since most of her friends were in band and she hung out with us so often.
Dear JoAnna,
You are hilarious. I miss that. You weren't afraid to be your own person, but you knew when to hold off to make other people comfortable. Your sense of humor wasn't always my style, but you respected me enough to make an effort when I was around, and for that I am very grateful.
You made everyone feel welcome. You became a friend to all. You were never held back by the fear or nervousness that most of us feel. I was so glad you wanted to be my friend.
Throughout the years after high school, you still made me feel special when you thought of me. I so appreciate your efforts to keep in touch with me, and I'm sorry I've been such a lame friend. I wish I could better repay your wonderful years of friendship. Thank you for all the fun times you have given me!
Most Gratefully,
Hilary
JoAnna is one of my friends from high school. We were in many of the same classes together, and most of the same afterschool clubs and activities together. I considered her somewhat of an honorary band member, since most of her friends were in band and she hung out with us so often.
Dear JoAnna,
You are hilarious. I miss that. You weren't afraid to be your own person, but you knew when to hold off to make other people comfortable. Your sense of humor wasn't always my style, but you respected me enough to make an effort when I was around, and for that I am very grateful.
You made everyone feel welcome. You became a friend to all. You were never held back by the fear or nervousness that most of us feel. I was so glad you wanted to be my friend.
Throughout the years after high school, you still made me feel special when you thought of me. I so appreciate your efforts to keep in touch with me, and I'm sorry I've been such a lame friend. I wish I could better repay your wonderful years of friendship. Thank you for all the fun times you have given me!
Most Gratefully,
Hilary
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