Tessa's Blog

Summer Adventures

2011-08-22T20:00:00.000-07:00

I know that everyone has experience with a great summer. I do too, but this summer was different than the rest. This summer I didn't work as hard, and I played a lot more. I tried new things and continued doing things I love. The place I spent a large majority of my time is in the mountains. I took up hiking not knowing what I would think of it. Apparently I love it and I have pictures to show. I have also been biking (both road and mountain), wakeboarding, waterskiing, diving, lyra, longboarding, slacklining and traveling. It has been a summer of fun and one I will never forget!! Thanks to all those who were willing to join me on my adventures. I know we got lost a few times, but it just added to my entertainment!

CANADA OH CANADA!

2011-07-04T11:11:00.000-07:00

I have just returned from a most wonderful trip to Canada! I don't know about you, but I have the greatest family - not only immediate, but also extended. This past week I have learned more about my heritage than I ever thought possible. And so I don't forget my favorites I must record them.

1. Great Grandma Pheobe loved poetry and songs. She would recite throughout the day as she worked. She learned them from her father as they walked a mile to church on Sunday mornings for Bishipric meetings.

2. Great Grandma Pheobe was both gentle and sweet. She never thought poorly about anyone.

3. Great Grandpa Rulon understood how to treat people. He would empty out houses for people on the way to work on the farm. He brought his nieces and nephews into his home and took care of them.

4. Great great grandpa Dahl would take people bags of flour during the great depression and everyone had almost nothing.

5. Great Grandpa Rulon and Great Grandma Pheobe never argued in front of their children. My Grandpa Jack never heard his dad raise his voice to his mom.

6. Great Grandpa Rulon and Great Grandma Pheobe had Japanese and Indians living on their farm during a time of great racism.

7. Great Grandpa Rulon and Great Grandma Pheobe create a home that everyone was welcome into. It was a home that all their children loved growing up in.

8. Great Grandma Pheobe never walked, always ran.

9. Great Grandma Pheobe always had the smell of rolls baking in the oven.

10. Great Grandma Pheobe once said (when she ask what she was doing), "I'm taking rolls to the old people in the ward." Funny things was...she was older than all of them.

11. Great Grandma Pheobe taught in her own way, but she taught that we need to dream, there will be trials, and we can't be naive.

There is so much more, but they have escaped my memory for the moment. As they come I will continue with other posts.

On to my Grandpa Jack and his siblings. I saw them together and they were so happy. I could just imagine them many years ago all living in the old house in Raymond behaving the same way they did all weekend. So excited to be together and never wanting the time to end. There is so much love they have for each other. And so much to learn from them. They understand the importance of family and how it is an eternal unit. I got to hear stories about each of them...Uncle Larry burning down the barn and learning about the atonement. Aunt Bonnie going on a date with a boy and then telling him she couldn't go out with him again until he changed a few things and went to church! Aunt Carol and how although she was the youngest she wouldn't be told what to do. Aunt Marie and how loving and caring she was. And then my Grandpa - a person that always recognized the influence of God in his life. These people have lived a long life, they have had many experiences and know what is most valuable - the gospel of Jesus Christ and their family (and not just their kids and grandkids, but all of us that run from the Rulon and Pheobe line and those that marry into it). I might be a Dahl and someone else might be a Baker, but we are family. There is a connection there that I haven't found else where. I am so very grateful to be a part of it.

New Beginnings

2011-05-26T19:51:00.000-07:00

There are few things I know about myself...the rest is just a mystery! One of which is that I am a teacher and the classroom was made for me. THINGS HAVE CHANGED. I (as my principal put it) have been plucked from the classroom. I am moving to the District Office to be the Chinese Dual Immersion Specialist. I had my first real meeting today. It went really well, but then I went back to my classroom later on, and I was a little broken hearted. Actually more than a little. I started to pack up my stuff and I realized I was packing it up for longer than a summer. I know it is the right decision to take this position, but it is a more painful than I fully realized until today. One week left and I am going to take full advantage of it.

CREATION

2011-05-08T21:25:00.000-07:00

Some people are amazing and have a green thumb...I don't think gardening will ever come that easy for me. It might be a patience issue, but I hope in time I will be more like my Nanna and grow into a great gardener! Last fall my grandparents visited and they taught me a little about gardening- my favorite was the tulips...they were simple. I didn't know if they would come up, but I hoped. It was the first time I have ever planted anything and when they finally bloomed this week I was delighted! Such a small amount of work on my part, brought about a very beautiful creation.

2011-03-02T20:11:00.000-08:00

I'm busted...it is March and time has flown by! Jenny is great at reminding me that I am a total slacker - I do not deny it!

Life has been pretty great! And I have to tell you why it is wonderful - the people! Have you ever noticed that when you have amazing people in your life--then life is just the same--amazing! I have a family that blows my mind. We are all unique but when we get together it never disappoints, I have a good time!

Matt - is logical. He doesn't let a lot slide. He will tell you how it is and will give you the facts to back it up. Combine that with his sense of humor and you are bound to have a good time.

Jenny - the greatest thing that ever happened to Matt. She is fun, energetic, easy to talk to, and full of love!

Jared - he is always wanting to have a good time. He loves to have family around and have quality time. Jared has a huge heart, but he doesn't let everyone know it!

Renee - she is strong...she can make it through anything. She has a smile on her face and cares. She cares so much about the people in her life. She cares so much about me and I am extremely grateful for that.

Carlye - goodness, spiritual, committed. Carlye is so many things, and our family would not be the same without her.

Alli - this girl has energy to spare. She is full of love and shares it with everyone.

Merritt - really cares about people and treats them well. He is always willing to do anything and help anyone out.

Kiss - she blunt! She loves to be outside and play. That girl is always doing something. She is easy going and fun!

When we get together we always have a good time, never want it to end. I couldn't have asked for greater people in my family --- and to have most of them live so close.

I might just be the most blessed person in the world...YAY!

Life in Salt Lake

2010-11-11T16:18:00.000-08:00

Time to update. I have to say that life is pretty good in these parts of Salt Lake. I love my job. It is the exact change that I needed. I still get to teach (which I love), but there are new challenges (which don't allow me to get bored). My students are a handful, but they are 7, what can I expect. My partner teacher is still great!

So, what else...I workout a lot. I wish I were outside, but I have become a gym rat. I am there almost every day. I meet with a trainer ever 2 weeks and get new workouts. Surprisingly I really like it. I like having someone make a work out for me an then doing it. I think I am even getting stronger. I might have found an additional job. I applied for a job at the Mayan...I will be diving. Crazy right!? I am clearly not the most sane person, but I miss diving and it will give me a little extra cash. To be completely honest, I am totally excited. I tried out the other day and crashed more times than I can count (and I have bruises to prove it), but I smiled through the whole thing. I am crazy! So, life is full of surprises and not too shabby!

Why Me?

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

Do you ever ask yourself why me? I know there are tons of talks and scriptures that suggest you don't ask that question and just deal with life, but it's hard. Sometimes I think it is more than I can handle, so I ask why me. I am not a perfect person (by any sense of the word), but I try. I try to be a good person and treat people well. I try to work hard in everything I do. I try to by real, sincere, genuine. I try! So why me? Why must I go through things that I don't understand, and are painful? I realize that I am being vague, but I am just putting it out there. If you have a response...that isn't the same as I always hear, please share.

Tender Mercies

2010-09-07T16:34:00.000-07:00

Sunday I was in my car (for the first time in a couple weeks) and I had a chance to do some thinking. I love thinking in the car. I always feel enlightened. Well I was caught off guard with how blessed I am. Honestly. I have a family that I could hangout with all day every day and never get sick of it. I have been given opportunities where I can serve other people and show that I love them, but they seem to show me more love and appreciation than I could ever show them. I'm blessed with a knowledge of Christ which allows me to strive to be something better and gives me hope for the future. I'm blessed with friends who love me just the way I am. I have a job that both challenges me and brings me joy! I am the most blessed person in the world! Thanks to everyone in my life because you all play a huge part in that.

Tessa

5 Days Down 175 To Go!

2010-08-29T20:05:00.000-07:00

It was a great first week of school! I love my students. I love their parents. I love my principal. I love my partner teacher. I love my school. I am so excited for my new job. The language is still a challenge, but it is wonderful! I love this job. I know it is a blessing from God and I can't forget that even if it gets rough!

Marriage

2010-08-22T07:59:00.000-07:00

My best friend got married last week. I am so happy for her. She married a great guy whom I really like. They are very compatible for each other. They love each other. I couldn't wish anything greater on the two of them. The problem is...I'm sad. I am going to miss my best friend because she has a new best friend and won't need me as much. The mixed feeling are weird, but the excitement will win out!

The Happy Couple

Some friends

The Beginning

2010-08-22T07:51:00.000-07:00

I am now settled into my new house, I taught summer school in Chinese for two weeks, had a week to get my room in order and prepared for the start of school, and now it will all begin. I start school tomorrow. I have so many feelings going through me, BUT I know it will all be okay. I know this is the right decision and that although I need to work hard this year to make sure my Chinese is perfect and students learn the concepts, it will be worth it. The two weeks of summer school were an adventure, but they really helped me prepare for tomorrow. Tomorrow, it is tomorrow, it all starts tomorrow. I've had 4 months to prepare for tomorrow. I knew it was coming. I thought I knew what to expect, but I am still nervous. I know how to teach, but Chinese. Really? What have I gotten myself into? I honestly have no idea...but I know it is right, so I will do it and I will do it with a smile! Pray for me!

CHANGE

2010-08-22T07:38:00.000-07:00

Change can happen without even knowing it, and sometimes it takes a lot of thought and then a final decision. It seems like I have made a lot of the later types changes in the last few months...new job, moving, new ward,...but when I went to my 10 year high school reunion it seems like over the past ten years there have been some gradual changes too. People didn't recognize me. At first I was a little offended, but then I realized I look different then they remember me. Let's see, when I was in high school I had blond short hair, now I have long brown hair and with an added bonus I have bangs. I had one person come up to me and say "When you're just sitting here I didn't recognize you, but then when you started talking and smiling I knew it was the same old Tessa." So there you have it, I have changed in many ways but not all ways...I'm still me!

The reunion was great! At first I was a little scared and didn't really want to go, but after being there a little while I realized I wasn't the quiet, reserved, intimidated girl I was in High School, and I started talking to everyone. It was great to talk to people and see what they are up to. I graduated with some amazing people. To say the least I came home from the reunion refreshed and renewed. I am so glad I went.

Life is Busy!

2010-08-07T12:15:00.000-07:00

Before....

After...

Last weekend Jenny, Carlye and I trekked our way up to Idaho for the SPUDMAN TRIATHLON! Yes this is the triathlon I did not train for. It was an olympic too...1 mile swim, 26 mile bike and 6 miles run. I'm not sure what I was thinking, well except that I was the one that convinced Jenny and Carlye to do it, so I couldn't really back out...to say the least, I finished. Without training I beat my goal time and should be happy with that...but I am not and I want to do it again next year with training. Let's see what happens! And just to let you know we had the best living accommodations. My good friends the Harman's invited us to stay with them, and they definitely treated us well...beds, food, good company... it was wonderful. A great big thanks to them! Here are some more pictures to show the fun we had!

On another note, I haven't even been back from Taiwan for 2 weeks and I feel like I need another vacation. I am now completely moved into my new house. Of course I am just renting because I am too afraid of the responsibility that goes with owning. I also started teaching last week. I am doing two weeks of summer school with the Chinese dual immersion students at my new school. This week was second graders and I am exhausted. It is Saturday at 1:1 PM and I still haven't gotten anything done. I just want to relax...and I had so many plans for today....:( But I do enjoy it and next week I have 1st grade (the actually students I will be teaching), so I am kind of excited!

I'm Back!

2010-07-28T07:11:00.000-07:00

So I got back from Taiwan Monday night after 17 hours of travel. It was a long Monday. But now that I am back I am completely back(I miss Taiwan, but I can't think about that now). I have a triathlon this Saturday that I have not trained for at all. So I have some work to do this week. I've been swimming twice and I need to run and bike. I haven't been on a bike in over a month, so when 25 miles comes Saturday I think I might die. No, seriously I might die...I'll keep my cell phone with me just in case! The run will be hard too, but I did run while I was in Taiwan, so hopefully that won't be quite as difficult. We'll see.

I have also been to work already. Yesterday I had to sign my contract, sign up for insurance and meet with my principal. I start work on Monday and I have nothing ready. I will be doing a summer school with the 2nd grade Chinese dual Immersion at my school. I am pretty excited, but I don't think I am ready. The Chinese is there, but teaching 7 year olds in Chinese and dealing with their lack of understanding. I wonder how many will be crying? I'll keep a count!

The following week I will being doing the same thing with the 1st graders (the ones that will actually be in my class this year). I know they will be having a hard time because they haven't had any exposure to Chinese. I will be praying for patience.

Then I have a week to prepare for the rest of the year. Life is crazy...busy and I love it. I have learned that all I need to do is hit the ground running and never stop.

My Final Blog From Taiwan

2010-07-25T07:25:00.000-07:00

You know, it is crazy...I have already been in Taiwan 3 weeks. It went so fast and I don't think I am ready to go home. I need another couple months. Don't get me wrong there are some things I do miss...American bathrooms, soft beds, not sweating all day long, my family...but when I am in America there are things I miss about Taiwan...the people, the food, how green it is... It seems odd to love two places so much, but I do. Too bad they are so far apart.

Lots of good things have happened while I have been here. I have been able to reconnect with people I love, I have been able to go to the temple twice, I have been able to eat some amazing food (which of course caused me to gain weight...oops!), I've seen new places in Taiwan, and revisited places I already knew I loved. I've met husbands, and babies and fiances and new friends. I even went on a date. It was fun, and he was nice guy. I even made a bet since I've been here. Really not all that surprising for those who know me, but this bet has nothing to do with exercise or food. I made a bet with one of my new members that who ever got married first me or her, the other one would have to attend the temple ceremony. Yep, I might be returning to Taiwan sooner than expected...well unless I win, then she gets to come visit me. That would be even better. I will certainly miss this place. It is my home. Well, one of my homes!

Here are some pictures from the last few days!

Me and Xiao Yen on a scooter - the only way to get around!

The Qiu Family (the family I am stay with)

Me and Mei Zhun!

Me and my Companion Sister Liang (and Liangs baby) and Zhang Jing Jie

Me and Zhen Yi and Gao Fang Zi and a wind park on the ocean!

Me with Wu You's parents! She makes the best shui jiaos!

Me and my date!

Me and one angry god.

Me and Liao Shu Hui.

So, there are some pictures of some great people. I am glad they are a part of my life. So, long...from Taiwan!

Puli

2010-07-22T08:29:00.000-07:00

So, no pictures because I don't have my computer with me, but Puli has been awesome. I went to Sun Moon Lake both this morning and this evening and it was beautiful. I love being in the mountains and around a lake. The things is...every sign says NO SWIMMING. Once again that is totally LAME!

The date is not happening until Saturday, so no news yet...we will see what I tell you all anyway! Later gator!

One Long Day

2010-07-21T07:27:00.000-07:00

So I woke up this morning thinking I was going to spend the day in Puli with Mandy (the one who spend Christmas with my family while I was on my mission). Well she called me before I went to the bus station and asked if I wanted to go to Miaoli and Xin Zhu first and then go to Puli. I really didn't care. I just wanted to hang out with her. Well it turned out to be the whole day. I was stuck in the car all day with people I didn't know. I knew Mandy, but that was it and we were lost most of the time. It all ended well though. I got a good dinner and now I am in Puli. Originally I was supposed to go back to Miaoli today, but for some reason I let Taiwanese people make decision for me and I am now spending the next two days in Puli. It should be fun. We are going to a beautiful lake and a buddhist temple. I think I have seen most of Taiwan by now! I don't have my computer with me so I can't show the lastest pictures, but they will come on Friday...I think. I hope everyone is having a good time and if you see Nanna wish her a happy birthday for me. Ohhh... and get this, I have a date on Saturday....how do you like that. These Taiwanese really think I need to get married and they are doing everything they can to speed the process along. hahahahaha;)

I promised some pictures, so here they come...

2010-07-18T22:46:00.001-07:00

A beautiful lake in Hua Lien!

The girl who took me to Hua Lien. Actually, here is a cool story... When I was a missionary here, she was one of the investigators that got baptized. Well she is marrying the son of a couple of investigators my mission president baptized 30 years ago. Kind of cool how things can interconnect!
So there are rock beaches rather than sandy beaches. Kind of fun, but more difficult to play on. Plus there is no swimming in the ocean here. Taiwanese people are typically very afraid of the water.
Ok, so anyone who knows me, knows some day I will have a mini cooper, but I just wanted to give everyone a look at the car that started this fascination, and it is a ton cheaper...too bad they don't sell this car in the states:( I love this car!
This is what a city in Taiwan looks like. This isn't even a big city, it is just a small to middle sized one. The roads are small and there are tons of people everywhere.
So, those are some pictures, I hope you enjoy! This place is wonderful. The heat is still hard to get used to, but the people make it worth it. They are so nice. The Chinese is coming, not as quickly as I would like, but faster than it should be.

I might not be able to write again until Thursday night, so don't get worried, I am just traveling to another city for a couple days to see some more friends. Love you.

On Vacation

2010-07-17T23:09:00.001-07:00

Coming to Taiwan is a vacation in and of itself, but to tell you the truth...last week I went on 2 more vacations. I went down to southern Taiwan and visited an old mission companion. It was fun, but much to the distress of my older sister I did not use the internet. I am sorry Carlye:( I am back for today and tomorrow, but then I am going on another two vacations!

The other place I went was Hua Lian. I have been told since my mission that it is the prettiest part of Taiwan. I might agree. Yesterday we went to the ocean, and then a river and lastly to a lake up in the mountains. It seriously is beautiful! Last night I went to a traditional aboriginal dance. It amazes me that no matter where I am in the world, the aboriginese of that area reflect the aboriginese I have seen in every other part of the world. I love it. And get this, I got up and danced with them.

Being in Taiwan changes me. It is crazy. When I come here I revert back to patterns I had as a missionary. For example Taiwanese are much more touchy than I am, but I know when I am here I will not go anywhere without holding a friends hand or arm. At first I am unaccustomed to it, but then it becomes natural again. I love being here and becoming the person I do when I am here. I am such a better person in every way while I am around these people.

Tomorrow I will add some great pictures, until then, Tessa.

Oh, and Carlye I fly in on Monday July 26th around 7PM I think. I'm not sure about the time. I will see if someone else can pick me up. No problem.

I'm Back Again!

2010-07-11T17:39:00.000-07:00

Have I stated how wonderful Taiwanese people are. If not, they are. They are some of the greatest people I have ever met. I come to Taiwan, they let me stay in their house, they give me a cell phone to use while I am here, they feed me, make sure I always have something to do, they help me with my mandarin and they simply take care of me. They are wonderful!

I have been here almost a week and guess who came to speak at a fireside? President Uchtdorf! Crazy right, the first week I am in Taiwan and a general authority comes to speak. I think that is kind of awesome. He spoke so fast I think the translators tongue must have gotten tired. There were times he didn't even wait for the translator to finish. It was great! He said one thing that I really agree with...when you return to your mission it feels like you are returning home. As I have been walking around I have been thinking the same thing. When I am in Taiwan I don't feel like I am in a foreign country. I feel like I am home...it is just a different home. So, I have two homes!

I also got to go to the temple on Saturday and walk around TaiPei. I ran into one of my old companions and now I am going to go stay with her for a couple of days starting tomorrow. This has been a great start to my vacation....

Someone Might Like This...

2010-07-08T22:13:00.000-07:00

So, when I was in Taiwan before there were some things I got used to, but now I see them and although it doesn't bother me, it is still crazy! I went to a market today with Sister Qiu and found a cute dress for my sister, and then I saw all of this! I have more pictures of the food, but let's be honest most of you don't want to see them.

While in America I forgot how many things they have here. This is just one example of shoes, they have it for everything. Sometimes they are cheap sometimes they are not. If there is anything you might be wanting from Taiwan, let me know and I will see what I can do!

Until next time, Tessa

I should get an award!

2010-07-07T22:33:00.001-07:00

Day 3 in Taiwan and I am blogging again. It is so strange to have the time and a computer to use for blogging. As the title says, I should get an award...Jenny you should be proud! So, the sickness has gone away (it must have been a 24 hour thing), but my stomach is still a little queazy... I can't really eat all that much...I don't think that's a big deal though.

Anyway, today I went running at 5:30 in the morning and I seriously thought I was going to melt. I have never sweat that much in my life...I did get some good pictures though! I would like to delete the last one, but I am too lazy to figure out how.

I have arrived!

2010-07-06T23:29:00.000-07:00

So, I was sitting on the plane thinking, what if my bus doesn't pick me up...what will I do? I got totally anxious, but let me tell you that everything worked out great! I got picked up from the airport, drove only an hour to Miao Li (where I will be staying for the most part), and arrived at my friends house. I have to say that the Qiu Family are some of the greatest people I know! With all my anxiety about being in Taiwan again, they made me right at home.

I got into Miao Li around 7:30 and then went with Sister Qiu to a Melaluaca introductory meeting (all day). Random right, but they had some pretty cool products...I used there shampoo last night and my hair is super soft...I think it's a keeper. We returned around 8:00PM and I had dinner, showered and went over to the church to see two of my greatest friends...Jia Pei and Xiao Yen! I was super tired, so I didn't stay long, but we planned to see each other today!

Everything was going so well until I woke up at 12:00AM and started puking and having the runs. Definitely not my favorite....it lasted until 6:30 (and I think it only stopped because I finally told the Qiu family and they gave me some medicine. I have slept most of the day today with out a problem. I can't believe I got sick, but hopefully today will be the last of it and I can start working on my Chinese tomorrow. We'll see! I'll write again soon. Love you all. Tessa

The Airport

2010-07-04T17:49:00.001-07:00

I am truly off to Taiwan. Sitting in the Salt Lake Airport waiting for my flight. It is Sunday at 6:50 PM and I won't arrive in Taiwan until Tuesday at 6:00AM. I don't know how I will be able to sit for that many hours in a row. I might die!

Beginning of the Summer

2010-07-03T11:35:00.000-07:00

My SUMMER began with an incredible trip to Lake Powell with my family! (ALL 19 of us!). It was wonderful. To have a family that gets along so well that we can hang out on a houseboat for 5 days (without any escapes) and still not want to go home. I feel totally blessed! During this trip we enjoyed tubing, wake boarding, skiing, hiking, pirate treasure hunts, wake skating, hiking and much more. It was an adventure!

When we got back from Powell, I packed up and began moving. To my much disappointment I had to move to my brothers house until I get back from Taiwan and then I get to move it all over again to my new house where I will be living with Carlye (my sister) and Michelle. Lucky me!

The following Monday I began my Dual Immersion conferences. They lasted for almost two weeks. That is a lot of Chinese all at once! It was very overwhelming and frustrating and an acknowledgement of the amount of work this next year will require. I should have been practicing my Chinese for the last 5 years, but lets be honest...I'm LAZY! Now I get to pay for it. YAY!

I have to say that through these conferences I have met some great people, felt inspired and learned a lot. I am excited for this coming school year! I get to leave for Taiwan tomorrow for three weeks and I am really hoping that it will help my Chinese improve to a level I find acceptable. So, I will write soon, but it will be coming from Taiwan!

New Adventures

2010-06-15T12:40:00.000-07:00

I have a goal...to blog! Not just every 6 months, but a whole lot more. I am not prepared to give a number of times a week or month, but it will be more than every 6 months. I have made this executive decision because I feel as though I am starting on a new adventure.

Things that are new...
1. I quit my job teaching kindergarten.
2. I got a new job teaching 1st grade in Mandarin Chinese!
3. I am moving to Salt Lake.

Although I will miss my students from my previous school, I am so excited to embark on this adventure and I want to share it with every one! I realize that with this job I have made my life a whole lot more challenging than I can even imagine right now, but I think it will be worth it. I love Chinese...the language, the people, the culture. I feel at home when Chinese is a part of my life! I also realize I have a lot of work to do. To start with I have conferences to attend in June, a trip to Taiwan for the month of July (hopefully to make my mandarin incredible!) and summer school to teach when I return! This is going to be a busy and challenging summer and I am ready to go.

Very quickly I want to share how all these changes came about...

For the last 2 years I have been trying to figure out what to do with my life. I would try my hand at many different interests, but nothing felt just right. Around January of this year I decided that I didn't care if things didn't feel perfect, I needed a change and I was going to make it happen. I applied for a bunch of different jobs and looked into going back to school getting a variety of degrees. To name a few, I took the LSAT, I looked into culinary arts school, I talked to professors about a two different PhD's I could start. I applied for jobs in Hong Kong, with the government, with Teach for America, and so on. I was on the hunt and I knew I could make it happen. I canceled my score for the LSAT because I missed numbered a whole sections and didn't realize it until I was done...LAME. Culinary Arts school was too expensive for a hobby. I couldn't decide on which PhD program I wanted to apply for. I got the job in Hong Kong, I got the job with Teach For America, my boss didn't complete the references thing for the job with the government, so I didn't finish that application, and then one day I got an email. This email asked me if I was interested in teaching a dual immersion Chinese class in the Granite School District in Salt Lake. To be honest I wasn't very interested. Then a few days later I got a phone call, a lady asked me if I would be interested in the job. I said my Chinese is not good enough. She asked me to come in and talk with her....I did. She asked me to see the classroom...I did. She asked me to apply for the job...I did. She asked me to come for an interview...I did. She asked to come observe my teaching...she did. She asked me to have an interview in Chinese...I had two. She told me I would find out the next day if I got the job...it took 3. I got the job!

This job was placed in my lap without any work done on my part. It was given to me and I didn't want it at first. Then in the middle of this whole process I realized I did want it and waiting those 3 days was torture. I know God had a hand in this. I know this is the job I need right now. I know this job is going to challenge me every single day. I also know that this job is worth it and there is NOT a better job for me any where in the world.

So there you have it in my longest blog ever...the start to my new adventure and how it all began! Hopefully later this week I can tell you about my trip to Powell...you won't want to miss it!

The Ending to Another Summer

2009-08-14T14:30:00.000-07:00

I decided that after a year of silence I can write again.

I can't believe that another summer is just about finished. I feel like it just began, but I got an email from my school secretary yesterday and apparently I need to be back in less than two weeks. It seems so unfair. But at the same time, I'm ready to play with kids all day again. I had some of my old students and their parents come and visit me this week and that did help to get me excited!

This summer hasbeen some what eventful. I finished a Masters of Education, moved to Bear Lake, ran my businesses, trained for a marathon, played on the boat, Alli (my younger sister) got married, my brother Matt and his family moved to Utah, and a trip to California which I am taking this week. It has been fun, but I'm not sure I'm ready for it all to be over. I feel like I haven't played quite enough!

Yellow Snow Hawaiian Shaved Ice

2008-05-28T16:53:00.000-07:00

COME VISIT ME! COME TO BEAR LAKE AND VISIT ME AT YELLOW SNOW HAWAIIAN SHAVED ICE!! THERE IS SOME GREAT SHAVED ICE AND SMOOTHIES TO ENJOY!!

It's Been A While

2008-05-28T16:46:00.000-07:00

So, I talk to people from my family and they seem to enjoy giving me a hard time about never blogging. I know it has been a really long time, and my only lame excuse is that I am busy. School has now finished and sadly I said good bye to 42 amazing kids. They made my life absolutely wonderful for 9 months. I will miss them, but lets be honest I haven't had much time to think about it. The day after school got out I started a new business. Combined with with starting a new summer business on a very cold day, I am also in the process of getting my masters in education and training for the Wasatch Back (a relay race that I run 3 legs of with 12 other people - we run from Logan to Park City). It feels like life keeps racing by and I continue to surprise myself by doing crazy things. My life is an adventure with both failures and successes.

The Challenge

2007-11-03T13:22:00.000-07:00

My friend and I decided on a challenge last night. I am pretty excited about it. And the reward is even better!!

So here it is, your have to work out 6 days every week for the next 5 months. A little extreme I know. But it's worth it. Each day that you work out you give yourself $10. Not much right, but at the end of 5 months that equals $1200. Now you can use that money any way your want, but I am going to Costa Rica for Spring Break!!!

Is that not perfect?

2007-11-03T13:15:00.001-07:00

It is definitely difficult for me to keep up on my blog. I don't know how Jenny does it. She is a full time mom and still does it so well.

As for me lately, I am doing pretty well. I had some trials at the start of this school year that were unexpected, but they are all working themselves out. I am lucky to have the perspective that life is supposed to be happy, but it is our choice to make it that way. So, although I had those unexpected trials, I am still kicking and really quite happy.

I do have a question though, what do you do with a person in your life that makes life more difficult. Do you take them out of your life or deal with it. I naturally would run! I would run as fast as I could, but then...where is the growth? Is it a good enough reason to keep someone in your life for the pure reason of growth, or is that cruel and unusual punishment? What do you think? I realize I am rambling, but I am quite curious of what you would do.

TREADMILLS

2007-09-22T08:43:00.000-07:00

So, I have a question. I have been thinking about buying a treadmill. It has been a battle within myself because I don't know if it is worth it. I can always run outside, but sometimes I just don't want to run another hill. And then I was looking them up the other day and they range in price so drastically I couldn't make a decision. What do you think? Are they worth it? What maker would you suggest and at what price range? Do you think the more expensive ones are really that much better? Let me know what you think.

I'm a little jealous!

2007-09-22T08:39:00.001-07:00

I have to say that I am a little jealous. I have been looking at the blogs posted by my family. You all have kids! I realize I have 45 of my own, but they leave at the end of the day. Not that that is always a bad thing, but I wouldn't mind taking a few home for myself. I do have some pretty cute ones! So with this jealously, I have to say... congradulations to all of my family that have the cutest little ones at home! You are a success!

A New Year!

2007-09-16T17:19:00.000-07:00

Some people measure their years starting in January. I am not one of them. My year starts at the end of August and ends at the end of May. June to August is just my own personal recess. To put it simply it is my play time. But that time is over. My year has begun. I am teaching two new kindergarten classes. I have a total of 45 students. And they have a lot of energy. My students this year are so different this year than last, but at the same time they are the same. I do enjoy comparing and contrasting this years collection of students with last years. So, after over 3 weeks of school I have seen plenty of similarities and differences.

Along with that, my students from last year drop by my classroom or see me in the halls frequently. Both them and myself are so excited to see each other. I love it when they give me hugs or just want me to see them and say hello. With how difficult the new year can be with kindergarten, that definately brightens my day....every day!

What do you do during a summer with no responsibiltiy?

2007-07-20T12:19:00.000-07:00

This summer has been a unique one. If my memory serves me correct, it is my first summer since I was 12 years old that I don't have a responsibility every day. I remember a life of waking up at 5:30 just to make it to diving practice by 6:15 (insanity I tell you, who dives tower that early in the morning?). And then staying in Salt Lake all day with other practices to come. Or to go more recent, last summer I was up early at at work all day and then brought more work home so I could do it all night. I don't think I have ever experienced a life without responsibility until this summer. And to be perfectly honest, I have mixed emotions. Sometimes I just don't know what to fill my days with. Let me give you a recap of my summer...

The day school got out I flew to Taiwan. It has been 2 1/2 years since I returned from my mission and I felt like it was time to go see my much loved friends. I was there for 2 weeks and I loved it. Taiwan is an amazing place. The people there are my family. They are absolutely incredible. The members are true pioneers with more righteousness than I have ever before beheld. They were examples to me of love, kindness and truly keeping the gospel in the forefront of their lives.

Along with seeing my old friends, I was always able to go to the south eastern coast and surf. I am not the greatest surfer, but I do enjoy it- expecially when the environment is as beautiful as it was. The water was warm and clear. The beaches were a wonderful white soft sand and the ocean went forever. It was a view that took my breath away.

Two weeks later I returned from Taiwan, stopped in LA to see Jared, Renee and kids. They are pretty great! I have to say that I have been blessed with a family that was made just for me. It was so fun to be down there and playing with Julian and Payton (Micah doesn't really play yet!). Then I returned to Utah. I had a teaching conference the week I returned and then I had a whole lot of time to myself.

So for the first week I didn't really do anything (well, except coach diving 2 times a week). You could say I took a vacation from life. I cut my hair, read books, watched tv, ate and slept. Then I got bored, and I mean really bored. So since then I some how fill my days. There are a lot of ward activities I attend, I have been preparing my classroom for next year, I go up to Bear Lake every weekend, and what ever else I feel like doing.

Having a life of no responsibility is fun and all, but I don't think I will ever do it again. I personally need more purpose. So I have other things in the works for next summer.

I wish I had pictures to share, but I lost my camera a couple of weeks after I got back from Taiwan.

Jenny I hope this is what you were asking for, I will try to be better about my blogging!!!

Life

2007-05-03T16:28:00.000-07:00

I was walking down the hall today and a teacher looked at me and said, "Tessa you seem to gave a glow about you lately!" I thought it was an interesting comment, but I took it as a compliment. Really my life is pretty great right now. And I hope that when my life is going well that it will show in me. I hope it will show in my smile, my behavior, my dress and so forth. On the other hand...if life is kind of terrible I hope that never shows through!

I also think that that extra bit of glow is from the sun tan I got on Saturday. I decided that I needed a weekend away. I am a little sick of travel to far away lands, so me and my friend took a retreat to her parents farm house in the distant Midway. It was much needed and appreciated. On our mini retreat we decided that we would not use our cars. Rather, we road bike cruise around all day. It was wonderful. The weather was perfect and these bikes allow you to sit upright and relax. As we were riding around we reflected upon our lives and decided we were planted in the really really really good soil (no rocks for us!). I realize that there is so much I do not appreciate in my life, but in moments of true gratitude for the things I do appreciate I realize how blessed I really am. I realize that I should always have a glow about me. I want to always be excited about life and making it all I can. My life really is amazing!

I am turning 25!

2007-04-19T18:09:00.000-07:00

My year in review using pictures!

I have always thought that birthdays are an exciting time in a person's life and I think I still do but not so much in mine. I love to help celebrate my friends and family's birthdays, but when it comes to my own I think it is silly to make a big deal about it.

On the other hand, I realize this week that I am not old or young. I mean my Nanna that is in her 70's would definitely say that I am young, but my niece McKenna would say that I was old. She actually called me an adult while I was playing with her one day. She was the first person to ever say that to me. It took me a little off guard. I have never considered myself an adult. Really I have only been me. I don't' know what qualifies a person as an adult, but I don't think I meet those qualifications. I am turning 25 years old. That is a quarter of a century old... may even a 1/3 of my life has been lived, but does that make me an adult. I don't think so! I think adulthood is experience. I don't have enough experiences to fall back on to regard myself as more than a person between childhood and adulthood. I have much more to do and a whole lot more to learn before I can be put in the same category as all of the adults that I know.

All I know is that I am excited to be turning 25. I am excited because although I lack in experience, between last year and the coming year I have and will gain experience (not much, but a little). Last year I was able to learn a lot about myself and love myself. To be honest I think I have potential to be pretty great! I love my life. I love my job. I love where I live. I love my family (wish I could see all of them more frequently). I love my Savior and my Heavenly Father. I believe that I am one of the most blessed people in the entire world. No joke! In this coming year I hope to gain more experiences through travel, fun, study and what ever else comes my way. Life can be a pretty amazing thing if that is what you are after!

House Visit

2007-04-19T17:58:00.000-07:00

Last night I was laying in bed (you know around 9:00 PM) and my phone rings. It is none other than ... the BISHOP. He asked if I was busy. Explained that he and his counselors were making visits and asked they could come by. I am not one to say no to the bishop (I also figured he was not outside my door) so I said sure. I hopped out of bed and 2 seconds later my door bell rang. I looked like trash, but let's be honest I really don't worry about what I look like. I ran down and opened the door and 4 men in suits came walking in. Their nice church suits compared to my disgusting sweats did make me feel a bit uncomfortable.... life goes on though.

They came in and we were talking. I thought it was random that they were even there, but ok! Finally the bishop got the point... a calling. I of course am clueless and that is typically why a bishop will visit you. The calling was no big deal, and actually I kind of wanted a new one. On the other hand, I might have to got to ward activities. I guess I will have to make some sacrifices for this one!

Then of course they left.

Trip to Missouri

2007-04-17T18:27:00.000-07:00

Not only did Jenny convince me to start blogging in Missouri, I also got to see my Matt, Jenny and the kids! They are adorable and I loved it. Mostly we just played, but at the end we all went to Nauvoo. It was my first time and it was definitely a lot more fun with kids. I am so grateful to have them in my family! Honestly, Matt and Jen have some amazing daughters who I can't get enough of. Plus when you add Emma Cooper and Meg, that is just asking for a good time.

Jenny's done it again!

2007-04-14T17:18:00.000-07:00

The influence of Jenny Dahl. Yes she has convinced me as well. But, I guess it is a good way to stay connected with my family...seeing as I don't use the phone much! We will see how it goes.