RIP Matthew Crawley

I knew it was happening. I mean, my sister did send me the link to the article that Dan Stevens, otherwise known as Matthew Crawley wasn't coming  back to the show before the first episode even premiered. I was prepared for this moment, to say the least.

But I can't help it. The last 2 minutes of the final season 3 episode of Downton Abbey I cried, yelled, grunted and many other unearthly noises were heard. I'm just sad that Matthew, the one character that I really liked from Downton is now gone. Oh well, at least we know he loved Mary forever...bleh.

So here's to you, Matthew.  I miss you already.

Celebrating love in all of its forms.

Happy Valentine's Day! I have to keep with tradition as this is my 5th year of writing on Valentine's Day. I don't really have anything substantial to say except that this year I am celebrating love in all of its various forms. 

Here are a few things that I love right now:

1. Talking to this group of 3-4 girls in my 4th period class about the latest Downton Abbey episode. Priceless.

2. Dressing up as a flapper at school to celebrate the Roaring 20s and dancing to the Charleston.

3. Growing my hair out and wearing red lipstick. See recent profile pic.

4. Living in DC. I have been here for almost 4 years and this city steals my heart. I love the monuments, history, museums, culture, and beauty. I am so blessed.

5. On that same token, having so many friends who I readily rely on. I love going to a gathering and catching up with someone that I have known since birth (shout out to S-dog) then chatting it up with my old mission pals, then reminiscing about the BYU days with some wardees. I have an incredible support system. Thank you all for being my friend!

6. Embracing the bull by its horns. I feel so empowered in my life to become my best self, to be happy in the present, and to embrace opportunities that come my way.

7. My family and their enduring and eternal love. I don't always talk with them, but I think of them often and love them so much.

8. Reading and becoming more cultured. Ok, so I've only really read 2.5 books lately but the culture is starting to flow...

9. Salads with pears, feta cheese, golden raisins, and poppy seed dressing.

10. The overwhelming feeling that the Lord loves me, He has my back, and he is orchestrating some great things in the near future.

What do you love right now? (Audience participation appreciated!)