Is it 2013 already?

"There's a lot that I don't know. There's a lot that I'm still learning..." -Jack's Mannequin, The Resolution

Well, winter semester is upon me, and weather wise, it couldn’t be more different then when I showed up in Provo. It’s cold, and I mean really cold: I walked to work the other day in negative degree temperatures. Not very much fun for a California girl! But I’m excited for this semester. I finally get to start some of the classes for my major, and the thought of getting to read and analyze, write, and delve into it all just starts a nerdy happy dance inside me. Seeing everyone again after break was spectacular as well, and I can’t wait for our coming adventures! Plus, my mom will be glad to hear that turning nineteen seems to have triggered a neatness bug in me, and I’m doing weird things like making my bed every day and having urges to make sure the kitchen is spotless at all times.

Some people like to make resolutions in the new year, but I like to look back at the lessons I learned the previous year and see how they can change me as I apply them. So here’s a little list (okay, maybe not so little) of the things I learned in 2012 that I’m taking with me into 2013:

• Sometimes you have to put yourself out there to meet people. If you just are yourself, you’ll find people who will love you for that.
• I’ve learned that sometimes, people do things that drive you crazy, and you just have to deal with it. Everyone is struggling with something, and when you figure that out, it is easier to understand them.
•  You have to know what you want before you try to go get it.
• Memories are wonderful, the past is special, the future is open and hopeful, but you have to take some time to live for now, in the moment you are in.
• There is something new to learn every day.
•  Anyone who makes food for you obviously loves you a lot.
• People come into your life for a reason; you just have to figure out what it is. New life is precious; so are new friendships. But sometimes, you just need the old and familiar. Both are special and equally important; you can love people you’ve known for four months just as much as you love people you’ve known for nineteen years.
• Your first impressions are often wrong, so never follow them without further information.
• Follow what the Holy Ghost tells you to do, because it makes all the difference. The Holy Ghost is the best teacher; you just have to learn how to understand it.
• Goodbyes are saddest when there is so much promise to be had.
• You may not be perfect, but at least you know how to keep trying.
• One of the greatest gifts you can give anyone, or they can give you, is to open your heart and break down your walls, even if it is only for a little bit.
• We are still growing, still maturing. At some points, you can act like the adult you are becoming; but other times, you will still be the kid you were. We don’t know everything yet. There is still a lot to learn.