Looking into the Reflection Pool of 2012

We say it every year, but every year it still seems like a good thing to say. Man this past year has gone by so fast. I hope that this new year we call 2013 finds you all doing well and loving life, regardless of your circumstances. I just got back from a chilly snowmobile ride up the mountain with my dad to investigate a camping situation for his scouts. Winter time in the mountains is my favorite because it is so quiet and peaceful. The trees look perfect, like someone sprinkled them with powdered sugar. The air feels crisp as it enters your lungs. It's essentially the kind of outdoor experience that I dream about while I'm sleeping. I wander a little so how about I get back on track.

 It may be a bold statement to say that this past year has been more full of learning than any other year for me, but it's true I think. I have had the last two weeks off of school and have meant to write this post earlier, but it was difficult to find the time between all the many fun activities. I have finally made it to my computer and have time to sit down and write. Earlier this morning and for the past few weeks I have thought about what I would consider to be the "highlights" of my version of 2012. A lot happened so it was difficult to select just a handful to share with everyone. The following are a few of the events that happened this past year that I feel helped make 2012 an unforgettable year. They are in no particular order.

-Transferring to Lewis Clark State College to begin nursing school-

 This is perhaps one of the larger things that have happened this past year. It has been a great experience thus far and I have loved it. When I first found out that I would be transferring I had many mixed emotions because I had so many friends in Rexburg that I was not anxious to leave behind. In the end I have come to see that despite the many challenges that it has presented it truly is where the Lord wants me to be at this time in my life. 

-Being a Director in the BYU-Idaho Outdoor Activities Program-

This experience is one that I wouldn't trade for anything. I was able to learn a great deal about leadership and the outdoors in this capacity. I'm especially grateful for the advisers with whom I worked. They are excellent examples of strong leaders and true lovers of the outdoors. I will always cherish the time I had there and the friends I made.

-My Sister taking in two foster children-

Two small children found refuge in my sister's family and this has been a highlight of my year for many reasons. I have been able to witness selflessness and love in greater proportions than I thought possible. I respect my sister and her husband very much for how well they treat these two children and treat them like they are their own. It is not easy I'm sure. For me it has been a great school of life experience in learning things deeper than I might have otherwise.

-Climbing Chimney Rock and the Grand Teton with Taylor-

It would be uncharacteristic if I weren't to mention an outdoor adventure in my highlights. These two trips are times that I will never forget. Spent in good company they were among the best trips I have ever taken. My little brother and I have never really got to climb together before this past year so it was a blessing to be able to spend those days roped in with him. He proved to be an excellent climber.

I hope that by reading this you were able to see a little bit of the wonderful reflection that 2012 has left in my mind. Though it could be difficult since many of the key pieces are those everyday things that go unsaid. There are many other things worth mentioning, but I can't fit them all obviously. Briefly though here are a few more: Mission reunion in October; calling to be a Sunday School Teacher; Jackson trip with my Dad and Taylor; weekends at the lake; reading several books; cycling trips; trail running; and delicious food. I plan to post pictures from 2012 to my blog so keep your eyes peeled. Happy New Year everyone!!