Power of Prayer should never be underestimated

"And I said unto them: Have ye inquired of the Lord?"

1 Nephi 15:8

This simple yet profound question has meaning for every child of God. It is through prayer that we receive comfort in times of sorrow and loss, answers to life's puzzling and often painful dilemmas, courage to face challenges that would be otherwise overwhelming and insurmountable, and the priceless gift of a testimony of our Savior's love and of the precious truths of His gospel.

At times we may wonder whether He is there and listening. This poignant question is echoed in a Primary song, and it carries with a resounding answer. Yes, He is there. The Savior reassures us of this eternal truth. "Pray always, and I will pour out my spirit upon you, and great shall be your blessing-- yea, even more than if you should obtain treasures of earth" (D&C 19:38)

In a church hymn we sing: Ere you left your room this morning. Did you think to pray? That's the first thing you should do when you wake up in the morning and ask for Heavenly Father's guidance throughout your day. Call upon his name at all times and for all things--morning, midday, and evening prayers for the successful daily operation of our households; for protection from our enemies and the adversary; for prosperity in our professions and occupations; for well-being for ourselves, our families, and our friends; and for mercy for our wrongdoings and shortcomings. 

The power of prayer should never be underestimated, and the power of the prayer of a righteous woman is awe inspiring. Her petitions in behalf of her loved ones bring answers and blessings worthy of note. And the sweet assurance found in Doctrine and Covenants 112:10 is a promise that all--men, women, and children alike--can claim: "Be thou humble; and the Lord thy God shall lead thee by the hand, and give thee answer to thy prayers"

A simple prayer can change your life or someone else's life.

Love,

Trish

Obedience to the Lord

"And it came to pass that I, Nephi, said unto my father: I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them."

1 Nephi 3:7

In this simple declaration of faith and obedience, we hear no hesitation, no doubt, no expression of fear, no murmuring about the difficulty of the commandment. Rather, we hear an affirmation of faith and a positive plan of action, the key to which involves the words go and do. Whatever the Lord asks of us, He expects us to be up and doing. While our own personal tests of obedience may not involve traversing a rough and difficult terrain fraught with physical dangers, they do require us to keep putting one faithful foot in front of the other, trusting in the promises of the Lord.

Today, I did baptisms at the Salt Lake Temple after a few weeks of not doing it. I felt so inspired to go and I just couldn't understand all the enthusiasm that the spirit kept on giving me. So I went with friends: Stevie Fox and Monica Cedeno. As we were making our way to the font I asked both the girls to go in front of me. I prayed silently in my heart to help bless the lives of these souls that I was doing service for. Finally, during the baptisms I paid attention to the Last names because I always want to know where these people were from. They were from Mexico and Spain... Later, I read my Last Name and heard it as this Man was baptizing me. I felt the spirit so strong once again, as if these people could be my ancestors. I absolutely was thrilled beyond reason because the Angels rejoiced today as I did the work that the Lord would have me do.

Rather than being restrictive, the principle of obedience affords us greater freedoms. We bask in the Lord's promise of eternal safety and peace, and our spirits are continually refreshed by His rich shower of blessings.

When we reach out to the Lord and endeavor to keep His commandments, we are rewarded beyond our greatest expectations--not necessarily with worldly goods, but with peace, comfort, and the reassuring knowledge of God's love and concern. For every step we are willing to take toward our Savior, He gladly meets us more than halfway. This reassurance is found time and again in the scriptures. In our day we are told, "Be faithful and diligent in keeping the commandments of God, and I will encircle thee in the arms of my love." (D&C 6:20)

Today, I bought two books. One is written by Sheri Dew, my favorite author and it's called No One Can Take Your Place and the other one is called 100 favorite verses From the Book of Mormon. Both are really amazing books and I've been so inspired to read them all day. 

Today, marks the first day of WINTER for UTAH! It snowed and I've been listening to Christmas Music! I love this!

I hope you all had a fantastic day!

Love, 

Trish

You can't hide your true colors as you approach the autumn of your life.

I love this season. Yellow, Orange, Brown. Crunchy Leaves and kids running around the playground enjoying the weather before the snow falls. 'Tis the first pumpkin carving I've ever done. It was so much fun and even got stabbed by a dull knife while carving my pumpkin. Did this for a date while watching a marathon of Toy Story and Cafe Rio for dinner. 

I have two days off this week because I worked the entire weekend. So much to look forward to, every time the weekend arrives. I love three-day weekends that I just get to sit back, relax, and enjoy every bit of it.

I can't believe this month is almost done! Then to the last couple of months of 2011. This year has had its ups and downs but never stopped smiling to get through the storms of life. I can't wait for whatever is in store for 2012.

The best quote I've heard this week:

"You don't light the candle quickly, you let it kindle."

Love,

Trish.

How Firm A Foundation

Everyday you wake up what's the first thing you do? ...Pray. (I would hope that's your answer!)

Last Saturday, as I was working at the Conference Center, I noticed this piece of paper again on the locker. And I cannot tell you how many times I've seen this EVERY Saturday that I've worked and I never understood what this meant until I went to work this past Saturday and looked forward to this as I was working, I prayed about what Heavenly Father would want me to know or understand.. and it was THIS!

There are times that we struggle and face trials whether it'd be before finals or with our finances... who do you first turn to for guidance? 

I am thankful to be able to have this Foundation in my life today. I know He lives and that he constantly watches over us. He knows each and every single one of us by name and loves us. He will never leave us astray. Speak to him when you wake up and before you sleep or even while you're doing an activity during the day. He will guide you to the path you're supposed to follow if you let him.

****Sorry for not keeping all these up to date. But I use this more as my journal nowadays but just don't post them*****

Love,

Trish

Learning is endless

Once upon a Fall Semester at the LDS Business College...

It's my third day of school but literally second day because I ended up switching classes so that I only have to go to school Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. That means I have to do homework on Tuesdays and Thursdays and ALSO go to the temple :P

I have:
IT102 (I BETTER PASS THIS CLASS OR ELSE!?!? dun... dun... dun...)
English 220
Math 106
English 201

I'll also only be in school from 10am- 2:30pm. I think this has been the best schedule that I've ever had. I absolutely love how we start our classes with a prayer and sometimes even end with a prayer. My instructors are super amazing and fun. I'm glad I chose 4 random ones really well. That's always important! RIGHT?!?

I'm thankful for sunshine, and the clouds that look like I'm in the movie, TOY STORY! O.o

I have met the most amazing twins ever! They are the sweetest, the cutest, the most mellow yet crazy, the most humble, meek, ultimately righteous... They make me smile this big :) I have great friends! I look forward to getting to know you guys more this semester! You girls inspire me so much and I la-la-la-la-LOVE you girls! And Stevie, you're my long lost sister that I never had! You are just so cute ;-) and Monica and I just have the same mentality. Love you girls :)

Thank you so much for living a righteous life and always striving to become like Christ. It's the best thing you can do to show those who are inactive or don't know about the Church what our goals are.

"As an exceptional son or daughter of God, you are sorely needed. There is an urgent need for men and women who will stand for principles against the growing pressures to compromise those very principles. Men and women are required who will act nobly and courageously for what the Lord has defined as right, not for what is politically correct or socially acceptable. We need individuals who have the spiritual, righteous influence that will motivate others to enduring good." [Richard G.Scott]

Remember who you are and Make Good Choices!!!

Have a great day :)

Love Always,
Trish

So long Summer, until we meet again

Today is the beginning of a brand new semester.. my last semester in good ol' Utah. Bittersweet but I know I'm headed for a new change at the end of this to continue on to bigger and better things in my life.

Every semester, I have been privileged to meet new people, attend interesting classes and meet new instructors, dated a few, smiled a lot, and of course engaged myself in all kinds of spiritual activities.. that you can never go wrong. I was also able to get my wisdom teeth pulled out this past month and that pain lasted for about 2-3 weeks. You may wonder why?!? I did this Lifetree Research when I got my wisdom teeth surgery done and it was pretty much the most painful 12hours of my life. I was there from 6am to 6pm and it was a test to see if Placebos would work on their patients.. MORE LIKE TORTURE! And it didn't work on me. I felt the surgeon pulling my teeth out and hearing it crack because the numbing medication didn't even work on me either. But looking on the brighter side of it all, I got paid $450.00 instead of me paying a dentist to get it pulled out. It was worth it.

People make mistakes. We're all only humans and that's why I'm thankful for Christ's Atoning sacrifice that he died for our sins. He wants us to return to him one day. So, CHOOSE THE RIGHT and REPENT! The LDS Business College taught me two things: to love and to serve our fellowmen. I have never been so fully blessed in my life until I moved here two years ago and really wanted to change. Many of you have not even noticed that I am a convert of the church. I wasn't born into this but I am sure glad I'm a part of this church now. I'm thankful for my loving parents who's support are endless, 3 Brothers who have built me to become a tough girl and to always find someone like them, friends who encourage me to become better and better each day, the Salt Lake temple that I live next to, to show me the way that I will never be lost, and an amazing bishopric who's always been there for me while my Dad isn't around to take care of his princess and his precious Jewel. Most of all, my roommate who has been the most humble and one of the righteous girls I've so fully respected. I love you all, and thank you for helping me pull through these past two years the least stressful as it could possibly be.

We go through many challenges in our lives and it's not always going to be easy. On Elder Dallin H. Oaks' talk  during the CES fireside he states,

"If you can't go through the difficulties as a single adult, you will most likely will not be able to go through the difficulties of a married life."

I know that I've learned to face trials and hardships many times because I've been independent for two years now and I may even cry on the phone to my mother because of how attached I can become sometimes. I love my Mom more than anything. I am so blessed to be her only daughter. She's the courage that helps me stand strong and the strength to keep me going. She is the smile on my face. She has a good heart.

I don't know how many of you still read my blog but these twins, you know who you are, told me how outdated my blog has become. But I will do my best to keep updating this because I know how many have looked up to me the past two years that I've been so spiritually fed. If you ever need to talk to anyone, I promise you that whatever we talk about will only be between us and that's an invitation ;-)

I hope everyone has had an amazing first day whether you are new to the school or attending your last semester at the Business College :)

SEPTEMBER 24th: General Relief Society
OCTOBER 1&2: General Conference and Priesthood Session

Always Remember who you are and make good choices (-Dana Hudson).

Love,
Trish

RELISH THE MOMENT

Hello world!


So I am having one of the best Sundays ever and I feel blessed to live in a city that gives me a privilege to practice my faith. I woke up at 7am this morning to get ready for Music and the Spoken Word. For those of you who don't know what that is, I will give a brief explanation. 


The first broadcast of Music and the Spoken Word was on a hot summer afternoon in the Tabernacle on Temple Square, July 15, 1929. The announcer climbed a ladder to speak into the radio station's one and only microphone, suspended from the ceiling. He stayed perched on the ladder throughout the half-hour program. An audio engineer was alerted by telegraph when to start. Hand signals cued the announcer. He began, "From the crossroads of the West, we welcome you to a program of inspirational music and spoken word." Those words, first spoken eight decades ago, still open the program. Today Music and the Spoken Word is the world's longest continuing network broadcast, carried on more than 2,000 radio and television stations and cable systems. 


So, I went to the Conference Center at 8:45am and received a program. In the Program says,

"WHAT MATTERS IS LOVE"

by Lloyd D. Newell

Life is full of noble causes and worthy goals. Because one cannot pursue all of them, it helps to remember that simply opening our hearts in love and kindness to others is what makes all the difference. It's the primary pathway to healing, to happiness, to health. Harvard biologist and Nobel Prize winner George Wald once wrote: "What one really needs is not Nobel laureates but love. How do you think one gets to be a Nobel laureate? Wanting love, that's how. Wanting it so bad one works all the time and ends up a Nobel laureate. It's a consolation prize. What matters is love." All throughout life and at the end of our days, what will be remembered about us is the love we've shown, the kindness and concern we've extended to others. Instead of spending so much time on things that don't really matter all that much, why not spend effort on things of greatest worth--things of the heart. Such simple and steady acts of kindness are the essence of love, the substance of life. All of us need love; all of us want love. Everything else is a consolation prize. What matters is love.

I thought that everything in that program was beautifully said and the music beautifully sung and played. I  enjoyed every single bit of that 30minute program and it's something that I love doing on Sundays. I, then, went to Church at 10am and enjoyed my 3hour block and shed a few tears. Our very own first counselor in our bishopric has been released from his calling to be a part of either his home ward or stake. (I forgot!!!) But we had him and his wife speak today.

Sister Nielson stated: "We come from a valiant army. Heavenly father wants us to be joyful and enjoy each experience and every stage in our lives." By that she meant, as children of God, we learned to enjoy our childhood and then our teenage years.. Then when college came around the corner, we learn to grow up and be mature and independent young adults. Every single second of our lives must be enjoyed, make a few mistakes and learn from them. It's a cycle. We need to laugh more and cry less. Be obedient and keep the commandments! She also read the following:

THE STATION by Robert J. Hastings

"Tucked away in our subconscious is an idyllic vision. We see ourselves on a long trip that spans the continent. We are traveling by train. Out the windows we drink in the passing scene of cars on nearby highways, of children waving at a crossing, of cattle grazing on a distant hillside, of smoke pouring from a power plant, of row upon row of corn and wheat, of flatlands and valleys, of mountains and rolling hillsides, of city skylines and village halls.

But uppermost in our minds is the final destination. Bands will be playing and flags waving. Once we get there our dreams will come true, and the pieces of our lives will fit together like a jigsaw puzzle. How restlessly we pace the aisles, damning the minutes for loitering - waiting, waiting, waiting for the station.

"When we reach the station, that will be it!" we cry.
"when I'm 18"
"when I buy a new 450sl Mercedes-Benz!"
"when I put the last kid through college"
"when I have paid off the mortgage!"
"when I get a promotion."
"when I reach the age of retirement,I shall live happily ever after!"

Sooner or later we realize there is no station, no one place to arrive at once and and for all. The true joy of life is the trip. The station is only a dream. It constantly outdistances us. "Relish the moment" is a good motto, especially when coupled with Psalm 118:24: "This is the day which the Lord hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it." It isn't the burdens of today that drive men mad. It is the regrets over yesterday and the fear of tomorrow. Regret and fear are twin thieves who rob us of today.

So stop pacing the aisles and counting the miles. Instead climb more mountains, eat more ice cream, go barefoot more often, swim more rivers, watch more sunsets, laugh more, cry less. Life must be lived as we go along. The station will come soon enough."


I thought that this story was very well written. It really does sum up life, the obstacles we'll go through, the mistakes we'll make, the lessons we will learn, the journey's we'll make, the dreams we'll dream... and the list goes on.. I have learned to love life as it is and take every little step to change one thing that I'm doing wrong. Life is all about change and becoming perfect like Christ. I'm humbled every time I know that through his Atoning sacrifice, I can get back up and try again. 


Brother Nielson then spoke and said: "Many of us fought with the toughest decisions and end up with a positive outcome." Many times we battle with the promptings and fight to do some thing else and then realize that things aren't going right... the way we think they're supposed to. So in the end we learn to follow those promptings and choose the right.
1. => Understand how much protection the gospel offers us. 
=> Prayer, Scripture study, temple attendance, Sunday worship, music, movies, have we had times we compromise our values?, internet, how are you conducting yourself?, the way you dress, act, talk. are you keeping your values? do you know your standards?


2. => Earn your blessings!!
=> D&C 130
=> If we're obedient, we will receive those blessings.


3. => Our Savior's Atonement encompasses our life.
=> Alma 34:10
=> I will return to my Father in Heaven molded in his gospel.
=> I wish everyone of you success in your life. Find joy and happiness in your life. Have much richer lives with the Savior in your life. I pray that each of you will stay on that path.


Brother and Sister Nielson, you will both be missed. We love your presence and I personally thank you for your kindness, love and your service to the Temple View ward. I'm thankful and blessed to have you both in my life. You both are like parent-figures in my life and I'm thankful for your love that you've shared to all of us. 


Anyways, my Sunday isn't over yet. We have a Relief Society meet and greet and dessert night are gonna be there!! YUM! There's gonna be cream puffs, ecclaires (sp?), ice cream, and more!


Then, we have a Pioneer Day Fireside thing tonight. It'll be great and I'm excited!


ONE MORE THING, I know I've been beating around the bush on Facebook about this... But I have been receiving a prompting that I feel that I have been setting aside because I didn't know what to do next. So, since January, I had this prompting that I should be going on a mission. People have been telling me the same.. Long story short, all those that have told me that I should be going, those are more and more promptings being built up that I've set aside. So, I finally talked to Bishop about it last Monday, and we figured a few things out that needed answering.. AND I HAVE STARTED MY PAPERS TODAY! eeeek! I am super excited! I know that this is what I'm supposed to be doing and I am willing to do this service so that other people can have the blessings of the temple and the gospel and eternity with their families in their life. I'm thankful for this Gospel and for Christ's atoning sacrifice and for President Monson, a true Prophet of our day. For the Book of Mormon and the truth that it holds. I know in my heart that someone out there needs me and I will go and do the things that the Lord would have me do. 

Have a great rest of the Sunday!


Love Always,
Trish

Day 7-11: CALIFORNIA

uhhm so this is kinda late but I'm gonna update it anyway!!

July 7th: My 21st Birthday

It consisted of cleaning the kitchen and taking a nap and seeing April Parilla and Chanelle Del Rosario for Lunch. We went to eat at Golden Dragon Chinese Buffet. YUM! It was soo good! I forgot how good that food tasted and an addition of good times with these girls! Ah the catching up from Meadow Homes Elementary and Glenbrook Middle School. I figured the only friends that want to catch up on good times are the ones that still talk to me on facebook. I'm so grateful for friends like them who still talk to me to this day through all the changes life has made. Then hung out with Derrick, Brandon, and Kaitlin Beckstrand watching Fresh Prince. Then took a walk and climbed a fence with Derrick. I had a great day.

July 8th: Friday, consisted of a chill day.

 I remember waking up and making a good breakfast and falling back into a deep sleep that had me waking up at 3pm. Then I cleaned the kitchen. Gina Glover and Francesca Enea picked me up to go swimming at the Glover Residence. I love catching up with these girls about Dallas Ranch Middle School and Deer Valley High School. All three of us played instruments and they still do to this day but I stay singing instead. I was also able to talk to Gina's Mommy who was my taught me voice lessons during my freshman year. I love, love, love her mom! She's another Mommy I look up to in my life. An inspiration in my life :) Oh you guys are amazing!! Thanks for an amazing night! Oh I almost forgot. We went to the Beckstrands after because Gina had to show Mommy Beckstrand her Bridesmaid dress for an upcoming wedding. And watched a little Fresh Prince again!

July 9th: A fun afternoon for the Antioch Stake Young Single Adult Ward. It was filled with eating tons of food, talking, and SLIP n SLIDE. 

NOTE TO SELF: NEVER throw a water balloon at Derrick! He will get me back really good. He got me many times and even threw me into the SLIP n SLIDE and shoved me in a cooler... with some help. My grip is way too tight and I might've even scratched him. I know I bit him at some point so he'd let go but it didn't work. haha. But it was fun. I had an absolutely great time. 

July 10th: I had an absolutely great Sunday. I think this Sunday was an eye opener for me. So many things were taught, said, and understood. I'm thankful for those that had a huge influence in my brain that day. The prompting that was stressed out that night... Thank you! I have had that prompting since January from Derrick and including myself and I just kept on putting it aside... But I finally got around to speaking to my Bishop and I know now what to do... and I'm absolutely excited for what the future holds.. It was also a Bittersweet night :( But I know that it was reasonable and things happen for a reason and I hope and pray that whatever happens in the future will happen.... blessings!

July 11th: Started of way early and had me awake for over 24 hours. Thanks Mom for letting me cry to you about stuff.. :( I tried taking a nap after my flight back from California but all I could think of was talking to my Bishop.. And when I finally talked to him.. I was ecstatic! More in store about this..

Love Always,

Trish

DAY 6: CALIFORNIA

Consisted of Cristina Talavera Day. I absolutely admire this girl.  We go way back in 7th Grade, Sequoia Middle School. I had a great time Swimming, eating beef tacos, catching up on the good times, and talking. I also got my haircut today. A-LINE! Then Derrick finally came home from work and we played some pretty hardcore Dodgeball at the Stake Center! It was so much fun with a lot of singles ward people. Someone told me that I looked like a ballerina dodging balls! I thought that was kinda funny! Then we played Volleyball as well. Of course it never went my way which was good because I probably wouldnt have been able to hit it. lol

:)) I'm loving it!

-Trish

DAY 5: CALIFORNIA

So I was  kinda busy as in HAVING too much fun that I had forgotten to update the days I've been here.

July 5th was Derrick's birthday and it was an awesome day except for the morning part of it. I was a little and still kinda am bummed that I haven't passed my permit test yet... I guess not everyone's perfect. There's always a next try right?

So after that we went and hung out at Derrick's house and I played with Baby William and Cemberlyne, we talked and played ONCE..., then we went Bowling and to In N Out.

HARVEST PARK BOWL - The Birthday Boy

Baby William in his cute outfit

So then I spent the night at April Parilla's house and caught up with the good old days again and had Chanelle Del Rosario on the phone until I fell asleep talking to her. haha. We opened our 6th grade yearbook and started adding people to see if they'd talk to us on Facebook or if they'd even remember us! Some do and some don't. We went to Winco before we got to April's house and got tons of junk food. yeah I know it's very unhealthy but we had to do it once. And at some point her little sister Crisellyn and I put face mask on and believe it or not it was my first time doing that.. It felt weird and I looked funny!

That Red Velvet Ice Cream tastes like HEAVEN!

-Trish

DAY 4: CALIFORNIA

Yesterday was 4th of July and I had an amazing day and night!

Woke up early and bonded with my Mother. She's pretty cool if you ask me because she MADE my FAVORITE meal! Pineapple Chicken! It was scrum-dilly-dum-tious! Then we went to Bed, Bath & Beyond and Sports Chalet in Antioch. After, we went to the Great Mall in Milpitas. That place was packed with tons of Asians.. :) Tons of sales and tons of fun.

After that, I had no other plans and all of a sudden April Parilla, my long lost sister, came to my mind. We've been trying to plan on meeting each other for years and I just have been so busy everytime. So I got back in town and called her to hang out. It was like we didn't even stop to take a breath because we played catch up the whole night and I was at her house until midnight! I can't believe how big her siblings are now!! Her little brother was still a baby when I last saw them and her sister was shorter than me at some point and now she's an inch taller! Geeze how time flies by when you blink! We talked about all the craziness of 5th and 6th grade! Boys, drama, teachers, classes, and all that jazz. I definitely didn't remember half the stuff she said! and we started facebook stalking all our old friends and not friends and EVERY single one of them now looks different and all grown up. A girl that used to wear skirts all year round because of her religion, as we recall, now wears pants and shorts!! That was a crazy one and how some people have totally changed like you can't even tell that it's them until you take a good look at them!!

So anyhow, I hope I see her and Chanelle (hopefully next time) again.

Today's gonna be a crazy day. Will be updated tomorrow!!

Have a great day!

Love,
Trish

DAY 3: CALIFORNIA

Today is Sunday and it's Fast Sunday! I had a great time during my parent's Sacrament meeting hearing the young men and women's testimonies about Camp. They were so cute and very spiritual. Then, the lovely, Gina Glover picked me up to go to the Antioch 5th ward AKA the single's ward. Today really felt like I was in college when people ran up to the front to bare their testimonies. It was all nice and sweet. I was spiritually fed well today. I learned a lot during Relief Society about Visiting teaching and what I could be doing wrong. So I realized that when the Teachee doesn't respond to your calls or your visits... try a little harder, they'll eventually let you teach them.

So, since it was Sunday.. it meant Sunday dinner at the Beckstrands and we had some scrumptious and delightful dinner. I love being in their presence. They're one of the most righteous family that I know and I got to see how thankful Derrick was today of his parents and his siblings.. PURE sweetness! He never seizes to amaze me.

I love and am very thankful for being a part of an amazing family... I actually honor my LAST name. It's pretty  much a blessing to be a daughter and a sister in my family. I can say that I'm lucky to be my parents daughter because they have taught me all the knowledge that I know today about life. I am thankful for the many times they have disciplined me because I thanked them for it in the long run. So I love you Mom and Dad. You mean the world to me!

So the night ended with playing ENCORE and chatting. That game drove me insane because I am now constantly singing songs about a particular word. We ended up with a tie. It was a fun night. I always have a great time with the Beckstrands.

Anyhow, I hope every one had a great Sabbath day and I shall post or maybe get tagged on some pictures.

Goodnight!

Love,
Trish

DAY 2: CALIFORNIA

Yesterday was a lovely day! Woke up and made breakfast and stayed in the kitchen cooking all day. I love cooking when I'm home and for parties. It was so much fun.

We celebrated Derrick and my birthday yesterday at the Beckstrand's home. It was decorated with balloons and purple and green streamers, our favorite colors. Derrick's birthday is on the 5th and mine is on the 7th. We had his Dad's famous burgers and spring rolls (Lumpia) and Filipino style chow mein. SO GOOD! We invited 6 missionaries and one of my favorite RM's who served about 3 years ago when I got baptized. I love those Missionaries. The entire time was just laughs, smiles, and giggles. Their home pretty much says M.U.S.I.C. all over it. So we sung songs and played instruments and fooled around. At the end of the night we played UNO and this family has their own rules for every card game... which means that I will NEVER win! haha.

It was a chill and fun day and maybe a little crazy at some point. But it was definitely one of the best birthday celebrations I've had in a long time. Last year, I was sick on my birthday because I ate sushi with Avocado and it was just all bad.

Today, is Sunday the 3rd and HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my Aunt in Philippines :)

Time to get ready for church..

Have a great day!

Love,
-Trish

DAY 1: California

So, I flew out of SLC and my Roommate always warns me that plane trips are ALWAYS the longest days. But somehow yesterday during the entire wait I was preoccupied by Babies and how cute they are and listening to JB. Yeah the simplest things make me happy! The innocence of a child and how excited they can get makes me my heart smile.

So when I flew into Long Beach... It was HOT and that airport gets way crowded. I had a 30 minute delay but somehow the plane still managed to arrive at San Francisco only 5 minutes late!! It was crazy. One of the things I'm terrified of and I hope never happens to me, is that I hope I never lose my Luggage. I fly too often that I've always prayed I never lose my stuff!

So anyhow, I got to San Francisco and it took forever days to get home to my parent's home because Derrick hit traffic on the way to come get me and we hit traffic on the way home.. It was seriously one of the best moments, fun times sitting in traffic with this boy. Yeah he made fun of me a little.. okay maybe a lot.. But I got him back! Usually it takes about an hour to come home from San Francisco but it took a little over 2hours because of traffic and what ever else...

I got home finally. Safe and Sound. Started making egg rolls and a few hours later hung out with Derrick at his friend's house. It was another great night. We took his Motorcycle for a night ride. I LOVED IT! the breeze felt so nice.. except for it smelled like cows and ultimately moisturized fruit fields or whatever it was. And a few bugs on my arms... No big deal. haha I had a great time.

Came home about midnight and bonded with my Mother. I absolutely don't know what I would do without this woman!! She's just amazing. We talked and she marinated the chicken while I finished making egg rolls. Did some catching up on our crazy busy lives.

And I passed out in my parents room. I had a tiring day and it was a well needed 8 hour sleep.

-Trish

Decisions Determine Destiny

LATTER-DAY SAINT. it's not easy to be one but we've made a decision to choose the right and live righteously. With light, truth, courage, and strength we are the brightest stars that stand and TESTIFY that Jesus is the Christ  and we know that he can heal us with his atoning Sacrifice. He expects us to carry the torch, to become worthy than we've ever been, repentance is real so we may be purified and return to him even better than before we entered this life. The miracle of the Atonement is to save us -- it cleanses our soul. Come unto Christ and be perfected with him. Focus on his redeeming role it'll make us better. God's love is the manifestation of Hope and Love so choose to become like him.

Find more study time. => PRAY, PONDER, PROVE.

"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God" [James1:5]

He knows all of us by our FIRST name and loves us. As we choose faith, we are not the first to be ridiculed. Tomorrow marks the Anniversary of Joseph and Hyrum Smith's Martyrdom and I am thankful for all that he's done, the sacrifices he's made to create this growing Church. I can't imagine for anyone else to go through what he's gone through. I want to be able to apply courage, spirituality, patience, obedience, humility, kindness, steadfastness, and to trust in God more in my life. I want to create a sure and strong foundation for myself (Helaman5:12) to become a good example to those around me and for my future. I want to be able to make conscientious decisions as I know it will have a huge effect on my future. I was really amazed by hearing that the 2 Salt Lake City Missions, both North and South have 500 baptisms per month. That means 6000 per year! That is a blessing.

Bless the lives of those you associate with. Develop a relationship with the Savior. Create a foundation that will build your testimony. Do what's right even when no one's looking => Adherence to our moral principles - Honesty. 

"Pray that ye enter not into temptation.." [Luke22: 39-40]

Be humble. Love Justly and Walk in his light. When we know God's will and align our will with his we become more in tuned with the spirit and we know when we're receiving revelations.

I love my life. I am humbled and I know that I've never been this happy in my life because I'm choosing the LIGHT and living righteously. I know that if you do the things which Heavenly Father has commanded, you too, will gain a testimony and receive those blessings.

Love,

Trish

I owe it all to you :)

COLLEGE is leaving home to teach yourself to become independent and prepares you for the next stage of your life. It's teaching yourself to become a mature individual and having to make your own choices without having to ask your parents if it's okay... and lastly, gaining self-confidence, self-motivation, self-esteem, and learning to believe in yourself.

I was almost in tears when I read what my Dad replied to me on his Father's Day wall-post that I had posted.

"...We're glad to see how you turned out... Independent, enthusiastic and artistic too! ...You radiate happiness and love. We miss and love you!"

This is now written on my white board that sits right infront of me when I'm doing homework on my desk. Important things like this are very well appreciated by me and I always make it a habit to read something that's inspiring that will motivate me to always do what I'm supposed to do while I'm here in college. Everyday gets easier and easier when I read something simple, sweet, and loving especially from those that matter most in my life. This picture actually sits on my desk as well and it helps me remember why and how I got this far in my life and they know that they are the main reason why I keep pushing to become better each day. Last Sunday, I was able to create a new goal for myself. CHANGE something in my life that I'm doing wrong to become more and more like Christ each day. And I gained a testimony of change in a week. The more you accept to become like Christ and to live righteously, you receive blessings from the one who loves you the most. Second thing I gained a testimony from was TITHING. When you pay your tithing before anything else, you start to see a change in your life. A co-worker and I were talking one night about tithing and how it's changed our lives and I told her that the moment I paid my tithing, I thought I was gonna be short on my finances because I still had another medical bill that I had to pay and rent as well... I thought that the check I had written for my medical bill and rent would bounce but they didn't take it out of my account until my next pay check. Heavenly Father knows when we're struggling and he is always there when we need him the most. So the next time you doubt something or struggling in life, get down on your knees and ask him for guidance. Even for simple things like, dating. I know I constantly have to pray about the person I'm dating because He will make sure to tell you if you shouldn't be doing a certain thing or shouldn't be with a certain person.

I know that the scriptures have given me the KNOWLEDGE and helped me gain a strong TESTIMONY of these things and my heart has a good feeling about every new thing that I learn every day and night and every time that I read them. As I've always said, I don't know where I would be today without this gospel, for Christ's atoning sacrifice, for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, for President Monson; a true Prophet of our day, for temples built around me so that I can easily feel the spirit wherever I go, for my Bishopric here in SLC, for the friendships I have made, and last but not the least... My loving family and their endless support and guidance that I will be a successful woman one day. You are all that keeps me smiling and keeps me working hard in everything that I do. The smart choices I make will have a huge effect on my future endeavors and I owe it all to you.

I love every single one of you; whether you're a stranger that reads and follows my blog, friend, or loved one.

Have a great day :)

Love Always,
-Trish

finding joy in SIMPLICITY

There's many things in life that I'm thankful for and most of them comes from the simplicity and the beauty of nature, night skies, sun shiny weather, new quotes to live by, big smiles, laughter, the innocence of a child, and the 4 letter word... LOVE.

(June 10, 2011- California)

I love spending time in this home because you can feel so much love and happiness before you even enter their home. Cemberlyne is a ball of excitement and every time I come by you can already feel all the energy a five year old has. She makes me smile. The Beckstrands have done so much for my family and I am grateful for you. I don't think this picture will ever get old because it sums up how crazy we all three are.

There's so much in life that I'm thankful for and when I count my blessings I count many of you twice for bringing me into this world, for your endless support in everything I do, for all the love you can possibly give me. I'm thankful for you and you ALL know who you are. 

Today, I went to Deseret Book Store mainly to get a copy of Midway to Heaven and I did. But every time I go there, I would expect to just sit there for hours on end and just pick up a book and read. Today I picked up Saying It Like It Is by Sheri Dew. The woman is so amazing and I have actually met her many times in her home ward and she gives me so much hope for life and she's a wonderful author. Her books are simple, stunning, sobering truths that guide our lives.

Sometimes one little thought is all it takes to get you through a complex day, to give you the energy to try a little harder or keep at it, to help you remember why you're here and who you want to become.


The only way to be happy is to live the gospel. It is not possible to sin enough to be happy, or to entertain or indulge or pamper ourselves enough to be happy. Happiness and joy come only when we are living up to who we are.


Ultimately we will become what we give our hearts to, for we are shaped by what we desire and seek after. If we love the Lord such that our hearts are changed, His image will fill our countenances. But if we love the world more, we'll slowly take upon us those characteristics.

-Sheri Dew

It's these types of quotes that make you think twice about life and how straightforward she is about the gospel of Jesus Christ and how we can apply it to our lives. Simple sayings make me sit back and think about things that I maybe doing wrong and getting back up and trying again. I'm really thankful for this gospel and for what I have gained from living righteously, for the sun that shines my way when my testimony is strengthened, for the smiles that I have on my face because I live the truthfulness of the gospel. It's true I have been stopped and told many times, "Look at you, all happy, with the biggest smile on your face..." I chose to change my life and I believe that I have been given many blessings for choosing to do so. I love going to the temple, attending my 3-hour block at church, talking to Sister Missionaries on Sundays after Church (sometimes even pretending that I'm not a member of the Church just to see what I can learn from them because they have told me once that they felt like they were learning more from me than they were teaching me; like I was one Sister Missionary on Temple Square. It was a good experience.), and just being the good example that I should be. 

I do believe that when you humble yourselves and want to be immersed in the gospel you become teachable.  You also learn to think about the more spiritual things in life more than the earthly life. I get life.. I understand it a lot better than I used to...

(May 2011 - Utah)

I love my roommate. She is another great example in my life and we actually do things together. She's the reason why I love Taylor Swift and David Archuleta; probably not as much as she does. She has a great personality and just an amazing  person. 

I'm wishing you a heart full of love... and sending up a little prayer that you will always know God's blessings...

Love Always,

Trish

Enjoy every second of your life!!

We've heard it many times... Remember who you are, Make GOOD choices, and if you can't feel the spirit --LEAVE! We must walk differently and act differently. Be an example and accept that challenge. Be steadfast and immovable.

"I can do all things in Christ which strengtheneth me." The world will change when we live by example. Take a step back and remember what matters most in your life. Ponder His influence and learn to Forgive your enemies. Feel a sincere gratitude and draw closer to your family and the gospel.

"When we have problems do we take it straight to Jesus or do we stop and post it on Facebook?" This quote was actually said during sacrament by one of the speakers. Ponder it.

This week I learned something really important that I had to accept. Am I in Salt Lake to work or to go to school? It was one of the hardest decisions I've made letting go of one of my shifts because I loved working at the North Office Building. It was fun, quick, and easy. Time went by fast and I knew I was doing it for our Savior. I don't even think of my job as a JOB, most times I think of it as a SERVICE just like cleaning the stake center is volunteering your precious time that you could be sleeping in. I thought of it this way; at least I get to take a nap before going to my later shift now, at least I get to do my homework diligently so I can turn it in on time, and lastly, at least I can attend Family Home Evening and be able to have fun with my new and old friends and not feel that I'm not doing what I'm supposed to be doing. It's a blessing!

The past few days and weeks I've only been thinking about what it would feel like to be sealed next year to my family in the Oakland Temple... I think I've dreamed about this more lately and it's a really good feeling. I love my family so much that I'd do anything and everything for them. I don't say it often but they know how much I LOVE EACH AND EVERY ONE of them.

The next few days I will be back in California again and I can't wait to do baptisms for the dead this Saturday at the Oakland temple. It's been more than two years since I've done it there.

Have a great rest of the week and I will update with pictures :)

Even through the hardest times of your life, try to enjoy every second of your life!!

Love Always,
Trish

Patience is a virtue.

I have to agree I haven't been good at keeping up with this. It takes me like a whole month to post another post on something inspirational.. I just haven't been good at keeping up with this but I definitely am spiritually fed well in the institution that I attend and just the city that I live in with the AHHHHMAZING friends and roommate that I have.

Today, I was privileged to attend church at my own ward. And I very well appreciated the talks and even went to a Fireside with President Richards, our school President, as the speaker of the night.

First, the topic in Relief Society was Patience. We all have trouble with this specific topic and some of us don't even have Patience. I know I have a ton of Patience except for crossing the street and waiting for the walk sign to come up.. which I most of the time just ignore it and cross the street anyways.. and this did happen right after church today. YES! so much for paying attention in church right?!? okay well maybe I don't have a ton.. just a lot and for the most reasonable things in life yes I do have patience.

A scripture that stood out to me was JAMES 5: 10-11
10 Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. 
11 Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is very pitiful, and of tender mercy.


Patience is teaching ourselves to be calm to get through the storms of life..


Moving on to the Fireside, here are some of the notes that I was able to write down:


-Everyone has a purpose in life that we have to fulfill.
-Brethren if you're so lucky, you will marry UP!
-Sisters don't settle!! When you marry him, you will do your best to change him and most men will have to agree to this.
-When you get married, you start to argue over  the little things like:
      - Toothpaste=> do you squeeze it from the bottom or from the top?
      - Toilet Paper=> does the roll come from the front or from the back?


-There are traditions that we do at church and one is the partaking of sacrament, others are: prayer, school, receiving, and beholding.
-Come to church with a sincere heart and plead that our Father in Heaven will speak to us.
-The Spirit will touch you if you are ready to receive it and that is exactly Heaven's blessing!!
-Bible Dictionary: Prayer- To align your will with that of the Father. Because Father in Heaven is ready to answer those conditions.
-You've come to a temple of learning to learn how to glow. Have you seen yourself glow?
-The Son of God died on the cross for you to be lifted up! DON'T YOU EVER PARTAKE OF THE SACRAMENT CASUALLY!!
-It is as easy to invoke the spirit in a classroom as it is in a Bishop's offiece.


Why do we want the Powers of Heaven?!?
-Sanctify yourselves
-Power comes when you know who you are and you act upon it!
-2Nephi2 => Acting and not be acted upon


ARE YOU WILLING TO FEEL THE POWER THAT YOU'VE NEVER FELT BEFORE?


I definitely have been spiritually fed on this wonderful Sabbath day and I absolutely love Salt Lake City with every inch of my heart. I have turned my life around and have changed so much and I want nothing more in my life than to live righteously and want to be with someone that will want to live just like Christ. I get it now; I understand what my purpose in this life is. I am a Daughter of God and will not lower my standards for anyone and I know for sure that God lives and the Book of Mormon is true. I know that President Monson is a true prophet of our day. And I say these things in the name of Jesus Christ... Amen!


I hope that everyone has a fantastic week! School is back in session and I am definitely on a roll with work and trying to do my absolute best in school...


I love every single one of you and make the best of your lives. Just smile :) It'll all be okay!




Love Always,
Trish

Seek a higher ground than the world chooses to

I've been a really busy girl lately. Ever since I've been working from 5pm till 1:30am, I feel like work has taken away all my social life. Could be a good thing or a bad thing. At least before I go to work, If Erin or Dana get home early enough from work or one isn't working, I have just been hanging out with them. I can't wait till Anna sees our crazy work schedules and how we pretty much never see each other.

This summer is gonna be so crazy with school and work. I'll be starting school from June till August at the LDSBC and taking online classes from July till September for BYUI. So a total of 15 credits. I'll be ultimately drained when I come home from work but I guess sometimes we gotta do what we gotta do. Good thing I love doing my job!

I honestly love that I can tell my Mom and really close friends anything and everything that's going on with my life. I am thankful and blessed to have these people in my life. Oh and did tell you guys that I have a great roommate too? She's awesome and has a nice family. Good people make me smile.

Anyways, 4 more days till I come home for the weekend and see my family and a selected few friends. I've missed home and I'm glad that I'm coming home for a good purpose this week. My Dad is getting baptized and were one step closer to being sealed in the temple for all ETERNITY! I am thankful for our Agency and for the fact that our actions and choices affect our daily lives and what we become of it. I am blessed to be a part of this Church and SLC is where I have grown with Faith and Testimony. I can honestly say that I have built a sure foundation based on the scriptures, the talks from the Prophet, going to Church all 3hours on Sunday, and actually LIVING the  GOSPEL of Jesus Christ. By doing this, I can testify that you will feel Joy in your lives and everything will fall into place.

"Seek a higher ground than the world chooses to." - Bishop Young
Remember who you are and What you stand for. Make better choices in life.

I hope everyone is having a great day!

Love Always,
Trish

Our Foundation is E.T.E.R.N.A.L.

Last Sunday, I was asked to give a talk when I was about to ask if I could sing during Sacrament. After being a member for 29months now, I finally gave my first talk in Church. It went well and in fact here's a part of it.

Come unto Christ – Helaman 5:12 

And now, my sons, remember, remember that it is upon the rock of our Redeemer, who is Christ, the Son of God, that ye must build your foundation; that when the devil shall send forth his mighty winds, yea, his shafts in the whirlwind, yea, when all his hail and his mighty storm shall beat upon you, it shall have no power over you to drag you down to the gulf of misery and endless wo, because of the rock upon which ye are built, which is a sure foundation, a foundation whereon if men build they cannot fall.

One night, I got down on my knees, prayed and asked for help. The next day was Saturday, as my parents and I were getting ready to go to church, two missionaries came knocking on my door. Of course one had to be Filipino and helped my mom become comfortable talking.. I was upset because I needed to go to church that Saturday. So instead we stayed home since it was like Church anyways and we were being taught something spiritual. That was the night I felt I had the urge to read the Book of Mormon. I even had my Oldest Brother, Christian’s friends come over to read with me.  A few months later, my mom told the missionaries that I was ready to become part of this Church. Then on July 13^th, 2008 , I became a part of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I faced hard trials the moment I was baptized. Friends started turning away from me.

I remember that same year, my brother was on his mission, in the Provo mission and he told me to watch the BYU channel when President Hinckley passed away and I heard this quote.

"It isn't as bad as you sometimes think it is. It all works out. Don't worry. I say that to myself every morning. It all works out in the end. Put your trust in God, and move forward with faith and confidence in the future. The Lord will not forsake us. He will not forsake us. If we will put our trust in Him, if we will pray to Him, if we will live worthy of His blessings, He will hear our prayers." 
— Gordon B. Hinckley

Then, my Bishop at home decided the Business College was the best thing for me.. So I went and I was mad at myself for joining this church. I didn’t know what to do. I was lost. Later, I began humbling myself and started going to the temple 3 times a week and I felt that this is it.. This is really for me.

Rise and Shine Forth – LDSBCollege Anthem
The Last Verse says:
As we live true and keep His word, His promises are sure, and when he comes we’ll see His face, be pure as He is pure. We’ll rise and shine forth and share His light, that we may glorify our Father above, and of his love, Our works will testify.

I really like this last verse because it exemplifies who we’re trying to be. By becoming like Him and as we serve Him, the world will see our example and know of our Standards and the Foundation which we build our Faith on.

"When I want to feel His love for me more fully, I do whatever it takes to stay in the words of the prophets.  I keep my general conference issue of the Ensign open,  I keep my scriptures open.  And I keep my heart open because His love enters by the Holy Ghost.  And then I act.  I do whatever I feel nudged to do.  I review my covenants.  I live them more completely.  And I have started the cycle of giving and receiving love.“  Virginia Pierce  

            When we do the things I’ve mentioned in the quotes, we are opening our heart to those around us. I have found that I am so much happier and feel so much more complete when I allow myself to do these things.

How Firm Our Foundation?  It is strong. It is true. It is eternal. The foundation of one’s individual faith, if anchored firmly to eternal truth, allows each of us to reach upward with an eternal perspective.  That faith will give hope when there is no hope. It will give us joy here and eternal life hereafter. Though we don’t know all things, we know that God lives and that He loves us. Standing on that firm foundation, we can reach up and find strength to endure the heavy burdens of life. When we humble ourselves, read our scriptures, attend our meetings, go to the temple, fulfill our callings, and pray always, I know that we can gain our testimony that  he lives, that the Book of Mormon is true, and that President Monson is a true Prophet of the this Church.

And just like my roommate Dana always says, “Remember who you are and Make Good Choices.”