April has been busy.
Really busy.
in a good way.
I survived my first semester of college!! so weird. Am I really THAT old??
Final projects and tests were stressful.
But somehow, the week of finals, I still managed to spend several days in Utah.
That Monday morning, I got up early, finished my final photography portfolio, skipped some classes and drove to Eden and met up wish some friends from Ethiopia- Mike and Julie Rhodes and Jason Burton.
Mike&Julie&Family:
I spent my first two weeks in Rome/Ethiopia with Mike, Julie and 2 of their kids and friends.
Julie and Mike are very loving and service orientated.
Undoubtedly, some of the most Christlike people I know.
They recently (in November) adopted Taye from Ethiopia.
Jason had taken him in from the streets and had been caring for him previously there.
Spending time with Taye and the Rhodes again was so much fun.
I love this family.
Jason Burton:
First went to Ethiopia at 18, went back a year later, wanted to make a difference, eventually started an NGO helping street boys, he lives there permanently now, has made a BIG difference to so many- including me.
His total selflessness amazes me.
I hope to be more like that someday.
Seeing everyone made me miss Ethiopia even more.
(For you curious readers, I'm going back in January. Hopefully for 8 months-ish)
Lots of planning needs to start.
Anyway, loved catching up with Jason.
Not only did I get to catch up with Ethiopian pals but also my Grandparents.
The older I get, the more I realize the importance of family and those relationships.
I've learned to love and appreciate my grandparents.
Thanks for letting me stay again Grandma and Grandpa Hall!
After finishing off the remainder of finals week it was off to OREGON!
Sam and I flew off on Saturday. It was Sam's first time flying.
Needless to say, It made take off WAY more exciting.
I have been up and down the coast before but not since I was little so it was really fun to go back.
We stayed at the Seaside hostel. If you're ever in Seaside I would recommend staying there! It is so fun meeting and interacting with new people there. The trip was pretty spontaneous. We spent a lot of time at the ocean- walking/talking, finding sand dollars, laughing, taking pictures, building sand creatures, and being crazy!
We rented bikes one day and cruised all around.
We also went on a beautiful 8mi hike.
Everything was so muddy and green.
This is the mountain that we hiked. It really was so beautiful.
I love nature.
Portland was an adventure too! We mostly just explored and rode the train. All in all, great spring break!
After flying to Boise on Friday and driving home the adventures didn't end...
My little soccer team I coach had a tournament in Pocatello.
Since it was Ellie's last Saturday (Before she moved to Provo) she got work off and came with me! We drove fast and jammed to music all the way down. Our first game went okay we lost 1-0. We had a long break before our next game so me and Ellie went shopping (Ellie is a shopaholic. no joke). Nonetheless, I did buy 3 shirts. Lunch was yummy too at 5 Guys. Hmm... game number 2 was just plain bad. We lost 6-0. We've had a lot to work on this week at practice. I'm teaching them all my amazing defense skills. We have a game today, we'll see if they follow in my ways.
Happy to announce the Baptism of Tofik, Damitu, Mubarek, Mesafinet, and Gutama Haws on March 27, 2011! It was such a rewarding day for Alyssa and Wes. I wish I could have been there for it. I miss those grubs so darn much! The kids were so excited to be getting baptized into the Church and today they will be getting confirmed. They are one step closer to being a forever family. 
The Elders that helped teach the kids are amazing! I was so impressed with both of them when I was in Ethiopia. On the left is Elder Mcklenin (Sp?) from South Africa. On the Right is Elder Scoresby From Kaysville Utah! He said he knows some of the Brady and Becky Family. Kenny is his first name, do any of you know him?? Grateful they were willing to serve a mission. 
