Week 5 - I climbed a real rock!

I cannot believe another week has flown by. The beginning of the week always drags on and then all of the sudden it's over. It's been a fun week and I've enjoyed the experiences I have had.

I forgot one great adventure of last week! I got to use GoogleGlass. It's awesome! I can tell it still has quite a few glitches, but it was cool. Wearing a computer on your face and being able to talk to it is pretty cool. You just tap the side of your glasses and say, OK Glass and the say a command. You can video or take a picture of anything you are looking at. It will find your location and give you directions. I was super excited to use it! I don't think they are for sale yet. I wish i had taken a picture with it on so I could have proof. I didn't have my phone, and honestly even if I did I wouldn't have pulled it out...my dumb phone to take a pic of the newest technology...nope.

This is what it looks like. You just tap the side where her finger is to turn it on.

Here's the recap of the tall girls adventures this week:

MONDAY
I needed to go to the grocery store, so I skipped FHE and went shopping. I got some basic ingredients for some bigger dishes that I will make at some point. I splurged and purchased a cake mix, crisco, and chocolate chips so I can make some delicious cookies! I'm craving good desserts these days. I also bought some OtterPops. I am also way excited about those!

Sue was kind of looking bummed when I got home so I asked her if she wanted to play cards. I pulled out good ol SkipBo and taught her how to play. We did a couple games and then Roomie 3 asked if she could join. I of course said yes and I taught her how to play. We began and it turned into one of the funniest games of SkipBo I have ever played. Roomie 3 was hilarious and super intense about it all at the same time. She would get so hyped up on her turn that she would breath in and out of her clenched teeth and the one game she won, she was so excited she smacked the table so hard she cringed! We were laughing and talking about all sorts of things as we played. I am sad Roomie 2 wasn't there to join, but Sue and I needed to get to know Roomie 3 better...we were kind of terrified of her at first because she didn't seem too friendly.

These are the roses dried...they now decorate my apartment! Yay!

TUESDAY
I actually got Sue to come to institute with me! She really wanted to play volleyball, so I told her she had to come to the lesson first. We talked about the importance of scripture marking...I got to teach her a little bit about Christ visiting the America's because she didn't understand that part as we were reading and marking it. The missionaries and everyone in the ward was so excited she was there. I think everyone took a chance talking with her and helping her feel welcome. I was so grateful for their support. I think she enjoyed the volleyball afterwards. I laughed the entire time as usual and enjoyed being with friends.

WEDNESDAY
I went rock climbing with Surfer Boy after work. We went up to Castle Rock. We were going to do Summit Rock, but it was closed. I was really nervous about climbing real rock...but, we did it! We had to hike around for a long time looking for a rock that was huge and that had clips at the top we could clip our rope to. We hiked and hiked and eventually found a huge rock, with another rock leaning up against it. He told me I could climb first...I wasn't too excited about that but I agreed. I tried and got about 4 feet off the ground and fell a bunch of times...we were valeting each other, so falling just means so the harness caught me. He had actual rock climbing shoes, so he tried to do it after I couldn't succeed. I don't think he fell, but he was able to summit. He struggled and it was a long climb to the top, but he made it! I decided I must try again in order to be able to call it a successful climb for the both of us. I tried at least another 5 times without success...getting up 4 feet and falling. I was about to give up, but he told me to try it one more time. I had to wedge my hand and arm between these giant rocks and take a lot of long leaps of faith to get past where I was. I leaned against one rock to rest before continuing the climb. I had to because I was exhausted! I finally got to about 4 feet from the top and had to reach really far to get the next hold and missed. I fell, but I got pretty far for being in running shoes and having weak shoulders. He was impressed, he even said I probably outdid him. I was a sweaty shaky mess by the end. He had to untie the rope from my harness. I couldn't do it my hands had no strength left. Rock climbing outside is a whole different game. There aren't certain paths carved out and there isn't a pulley at the top to make the rope flow smoothly for valeting. It takes more energy and more concentration. It was a good experience! I definitely had my fair share of bruises, scrapes, and bug bites.

THURSDAY
I went on my date with 5-4. We were eating dinner the entire time, so the height didn't really bother me. He is from Vietnam and grew up there, so we had plenty to talk about. I really don't like Pho...it's a Vietnamese dish. Soup, noodles, meat, joints, shredded stomach lining, and I'm sure other things that I don't want to know. I was a good sport and ate all I could, but I don't think I will seek it out again. He's a fun guy, but 8 inches is a lot...he's probably attached to me now.

FRIDAY
I went and saved the Bay!! I worked outside for work. I pulled weeds and watered native plants. The weeds are invasive and killing the natural wildlife, so we had to clear those and water the struggling plants. Here are a few pictures of my adventure. I loved being outside and getting to do yard work. I am also grateful for parents who made me do a lot of yard work as a kid so I knew what to do... and this weeding and watering is nothing compared to tumbleweeds....

The whole group. 

Hard at work...watch out for my pick!

Another of the group.

Back at the office with my sticker for proof I went.

This bad boy was waiting for me when I got back to work on Friday!!!

Now I can officially work from home because I have a work phone :)

SATURDAY
I got to go to the Oakland temple for the first time! It was beautiful. Being in the temple was a great blessing and I am so grateful I got to go. I was done with baptisms at least 2 hours before the people in the session were done so I walked around the grounds and took some pics and enjoyed the beautiful weather. We went out to eat afterwards at a cute little icecream shop called Fenton's that is apparently in UP. Here are some pics of the unique Oakland temple.

I had to take a selfie just to show I was there...It was really hard to get me and the temple in the pic....

This is the view of the Valley from behind the temple. 

This engraving of Christ appearing in the Americas is on the front and back of the temple. 

So, instead of heading home after the temple, Chatty-man decided that he wanted to go home to Sacramento for Father's Day. He wanted company and he promised we would do something fun...so I said, what the heck. I thought it would be good practice for meeting future in-laws...but with very low stakes because I haven't even been on a date with Chatty-man. I was very worried about what his family would think and that it would be awkward...but, they were so happy he was there that I was just a bonus person. They were super friendly and I spent a lot of time answering questions. We went to dinner with his two sisters that night at On the Border...a good Mexican food restaurant. I enjoyed the sizzling fajitas and then we went to a RiverCats baseball game! It was fun! It is the first baseball game I have ever watched besides high school. It was really entertaining and we actually got to see fireworks at the end!! I am so excited for the 4th of July! I can't wait!

RiverCats Basebal game. Wicked awesome seats!

Fireworks!

SUNDAY
Chatty-man's dad gave a talk in church that was really good and most of the people at church just thought I was a family member, so that was helpful for the whole situation...it's been interesting trying to explain to people that I really just went with him for fun and no other reason...His Mom gave the lesson in Relief Society, so I got good exposure to the parents and their beliefs. We played games in the afternoon and had a delicious Father's Day dinner. I was grateful to be with a family on that special day. The ride home was fun and we continued to get to know each other better...but, he still talks too much and I know nothing will happen between us (I'm just letting you know that because I know you are wondering).

I got to talk to my Papa when I got home. I am so grateful for the wonderful father that raised me. He is my biggest fan and my greatest support. I love him so much. I am also grateful for the many other father figures and priesthood holders in my life. I have been so blessed by their teachings and influences. I would not be the person I am today without them.

Thanks for reading. I hope you found it enjoyable.

Peace out.

-the tall girl

Week 4 - I talked to real people!

Another week has flown by! I cannot believe I have been here for four weeks. At times it feels like I just got here, and then at other times it feels like I have been here forever! I am definitely playing hard and working hard at the same time. I love the experiences I am having and grateful for the friendships I am creating. Here's what week 4 brought me.

First, I forgot to talk about this last week...I was eating dinner on Sunday night and I really, really wanted to have chocolate. I remembered two small kisses I felt earlier that day in my scripture bag! I ran and got them. I opened the first, which you see the wrapper opened here. Then, as I began to open the other, I realized I caught myself in my own trap. During church a couple weeks ago. I made all my kiss wrappers into one kiss so that I could trick someone. I had totally forgotten about it! I opened it with excitement and thrill to eat another piece of chocolate...but it was full of wrappers. I couldn't believe it! The fake kiss is pictured here.

Some pranks work against you.

MONDAY
I faced a huge emotional dilemma. How do you reject candidates? My heart just felt so sad for them. They are recent graduates trying to start a career. Oh, I feel so sad I can't help them all. The only way I was able to get any work done was the recruiter told me that he would do the dispositioning and I just needed to send him the names. Phew! I was then able to move through candidates...although slowly. I am getting faster at sifting through them. It will take time and luckily my team is patient with me.

Surfer boy texted me early in the day and asked if I wanted to go to dinner at Apple headquarters. I of course said yessss! He came and picked me up from work and we went back to Apple for dinner. I got this cool little sticker with my name on it and we got dinner. We chose the pizza oven place and I got my own pizza. All the employees get to eat for free, which meant as a guest I also got to eat for free :)

Visitor Sticker

TUESDAY
Institute and volleyball were fun. I enjoyed playing and really you just have to laugh the whole time or else you could get really upset. I don't play easy on people though, and I think some people fear my serves...but, it's good for my team.

On the way home 5-4, who gives me a ride to church every week asked me if I would like to go to dinner sometime. I said yes, even though he is breaking my record for the shortest person I have been on a date with by two whole inches. When I said yes, he said, "phew, that went much better than planned. I had a whole scenario planned...but I just decided to ask instead." I was very curious so I asked him to share his scenario...here was his plan:

5-4: So, hypothetically speaking, would you go out with someone who is 5'4?
Me: Yes

5-4: So, hypothetically speaking, if a really nice guy who gave your rides everywhere asked you out, would you say yes without things getting weird?
Me: Yes...(and, these yesses are for the hypothetical situation description purposes.)

5-4: So, bringing this to real world...will you go to dinner with me sometime?

I laughed so hard at this hypothetical situation he cooked up in his mind. I am glad he shared it with me so I could enjoy it. I guess it is really that hard for a guy to ask a girl out...This will hopefully be a one and done date. It's happening next Thursday.

WEDNESDAY
There is a local farmer's market that comes to campus every other Wednesday. It's fun to see the random things they bring. They have all sorts of candy covered nuts and dried fruit...etc. And, the best part...samples! I walked around and probably tried most of the dry fruits that looked semi-delicious and then some of the candy covered almonds...soooo good! I got my sugar fill all for free.

After work Kirby and I went to a step areobics class that was taught my a personal trainer in the campus gym. I kind of looked ridiculous trying to get my feet to move that fast up and down and across a step. She kept saying things like, if you are out of breath, don't over do it...do what you need to do and do as long as your still moving...or you can get a drink of water if you need. I wanted to say back to her, lady, I am not even breaking a sweat right now! I could go run three miles and be just fine! I just don't have the stinkin coordination to move my feet that fast! I tried as hard as I could to keep up...but I didn't want to trip and fall on my face...It was an adventure. I'll probably go back just to see if I can get better and actually catch on. It's good for me to work my foot--eye coordination, I am used to hands.

THURSDAY
This was my first day actually talking to candidates! I did phone screens and all sorts of awesome stuff. I enjoyed talking with them and being on the other side of a phone screening interview. They think I know everything and I just toot their horns at the beginning and they are immediately flattered and excited that someone is reaching out to them. I enjoyed it and I hope it will get a little easier. I definitely stuttered my fair share and said um and cool a lot.

That night, Kirby and I traveled to the intern event together in San Jose. Of course, we didn't look for directions before we left so we hopped on the train and off at a station she thought we might need to get off on. We were still two stops away. We had to wait for the next train...we could have worked an extra 20 minutes. Then, we hopped on and off at the right station this time and then headed in the wrong direction. We walked for a block and half and then realized we probably weren't going the right way. We tried asking people and they looked at us like we were crazy. Eventually, we turned around, walked back, and found our way. Her smartphone was definitely of no use to us. We had dinner at Gorden and Breish brewery and restaurant. The food was delicious, the wings were my favorite...I don't know what they were, but they were the best wings I have ever had!

We walked from there over to the theater where we had it all to ourselves and watched the new X-men movie. It was good! I enjoyed it and it was fun to have free popcorn and a soda and a theater full of interns. I enjoyed the whole evening, although I was bummed it wasn't Friday and there was work the next day.

FRIDAY
Work was pretty normal, but a little high stress. I went in early and worked as long as I could. I talked to a few candidates, which was fun! I went to the intern get-to-know-you event and back to work so I could leave early. Once I left, I went camping!!! Kelly picked me up and we went to the church to meet up with the other peeps.

We went up to Big Basin State Park. Here's a pic of a big redwood cross section, but it's blurry...of course I was shaking.

This bad boy is over 1500 years old. Crazy!

I rode up in the car with Chatty-man and another girl. We set up tents and had some good hotdogs and s'mores over the fire. I borrowed a sleeping bag and pad from a kid in the ward, so I slept comfortably and warm! What a blessing! We stayed up late talking and laughing around the fire and Kelly and I stayed up even later chatting in bed. It was fun and we slept in pretty late the next morning...especially for camping!

SATURDAY
This is the day we went hiking!! We went on a 10.5 mile hike. There were only 5 of us that were tough enough to hike and not go home early. The hike was beautiful and the surroundings were gorgeous. I was so grateful to be in nature away from the sounds of the city. I forget how wonderful it is to have peace and quiet all the time. We saw some beautiful falls and some huge trees. Here are a few pics, I am sure more will show up on fbook soon. It was a blast, but as you will see, I got really dirty and by the end, my feet were aching so bad! I was very grateful to sit down at the end.

Pro-Camper, Chatty-Man, and Me

Me at the beautiful falls. 

Bigger falls that we couldn't get close to. 

Dirty shoes...this pic doesn't do it justice.

That is not a tan line...definitely dirt.

I enjoyed the experience and I hope I get to camp a couple more times before heading back to school. I was grateful for Pro-Camper and Kelly who brought everything I needed that I didn't have here.

SUNDAY
Nothing crazy happened today. I didn't have the lesson or anything, so church was pretty chill. Dinner at the Call's was awesome as usual. Roommate #3 arrived. She is Asian, but from Chicago and goes to school in Boston. She seems fun and I am glad we are all here. Only 8 more weeks...which is crazy! Time is flying.

Again, thanks for reading. I hope you found some laughter and got filled in with what I have been doing. I hope you are well.

Peace out.

- the tall girl

Week 3 - First Real Missionary Experience

MONDAY - Memorial Day

I love Memorial Day! It is when the weather is finally nice and everyone doesn't have to work. I woke up early and went hiking with friends from the ward in Portola Redwoods State Park. We hiked about six miles, and it was awesome. Redwood trees are huuuuuge!! It blew my mind when I saw them. I loved walking in nature. I of course got my token mosquito bites and dirt covered new shoes. Totally worth it. We hiked up summit trail, and I was expecting this beautiful view because the hike was pretty strenuous, but then all of the sudden the trail just starts dropping downwards. Because the trees are so massive, we could only see a little bit of blue sky which was different than the rest of the hike where you just see big trees. It was slightly anticlimactic. While hiking back, Tim wanted a deep explanation about why my name was Kitt. I began to explain to him when I was born and then said, but it is actually short for Kittricia and my grandmother's name was Kittricia...I was going to through a few more comments, but then when I started lying about my grandma's name I knew I was in trouble. ;) I then said I was joking and then no one who was listening knew what to believe anymore. They all believed my grandmother story.

I didn't take this, but hopefully I can get some pics for proof soon :)

Later that day, we had a ward barbecue and pool party. I love swimming, the sun, people, and food so it was a great afternoon. I enjoyed playing billiard pool and then jumping in the actual pool. I of course joined a fierce game of three up with all the guys that were the only ones swimming. But, as soon as they decided to get out of the pool to jump and catch the ball, I bowed out. I was not up for getting jumped on. I was grateful for the fun activities and friends to do things with.

When we were getting ready for bed, Sue said, Kitt are you married?? I laughed super hard and said no. She said she realized she had asked me if I had a boyfriend, but realized later she should probably have asked me if I was married because Mormons have to get married when they are super young. I laughed even harder and said that we have the choice of when we get married and who we marry and we aren't forced to do any of it. She was surprised and relieved about that. She then asked if Mormons had to marry Mormons. I again explained that it is a choice, although it is always better if you marry a person in the same religion. She quickly agreed.

TUESDAY
Work went really well and I was able to find some good information and profiles for our hiring manager. I might as well just tell everyone that I am a professional online stalker...that's basically what I do all day, stock people's skills and profiles...talent acquisition is just the code words. I went to institute with my ward when I got home from work. We had another bbq and a lesson about scripture study. I played volleyball afterwards and got home around 10:30. My roommate had a friend over and I talked with them for a while. I eventually went into my room and Sue hollered in and said, Kitt I got a lot of wine we can party it up! She caught herself and proceeded to ask if I drank. When I said no, she said okay I will never ask you again.

Once her friend left, she apologized for asking me. She was so worried I would be offended. I told her she shouldn't be offended at all and she should feel free to ask me any questions she wanted. This opened the door for the next hour of Gospel discussion. She said she was looking things up online about our religion because she wanted to learn more and figure out why I was so dedicated to what I believe. I jumped on the opportunity and asked if she wanted to see some dependable sites that would actually depict what we believe. I showed her mormon.org and lds.org. She said she wanted to read the Bible, so I showed her that she could download it and she could watch Bible videos...which, she thought was awesome.

She didn't know where the Bible came from, so I explained to her where it came from and the lives that were sacrificed to translate it into English. Luckily, I had gone to institute and learned about the history of the Bible again...blessings. She then asked why we are different than Christians. I explained our belief in the Godhead and in the Book of Mormon. I said we also believe the Bible to be the word of God as far as it is translated correctly. She said she totally understood that it could not be translated directly from Hebrew so we are in the right for believing that. By that time I pulled out my quad and had the smaller Book of Mormon out that I just recently started reading and marking. I told her that if she ever wanted to read my materials, she was more than welcome to. She acted excited, so I said she could have my small Book of Mormon. She was shocked and kind of refused to take it because she didn't want to take something that was mine. I told her that I had another and pulled out the Book of Mormon that I used my freshman year to take notes in class. She saw it and asked if she could have that one. I agreed, because if she reads it, it's worth giving up. Sue said she would read it by the end of the summer! I explained that as she had questions, she should feel free to ask. I really hope she does read it. I want so badly for her to feel the Spirit of the book, even if she doesn't fully convert. I also told her that she could come to church and I think she will come to institute next week so she can play volleyball afterwards.

I was so grateful for the opportunity to share my testimony. It was fun and I was so excited when I finished at about midnight. It was definitely worth staying up for and practically falling asleep at work the next day.

WEDNESDAY
As we were sitting around, Susan out of the blue asks if I want to work when I have kids. I said I'd prefer not to, and asked her. She said, family comes first always. She proceeded to tell how her mother gave up a career to be home with her and I told her about my mom doing the same. It was a great conversation and I was grateful for her strong example and conviction to family.

Also, I got to work outside for about an hour. I was freezing at my desk so I just picked up my computer and headed outside. It was wonderful!

THURSDAY
I had a good lunch with Jen and Kathy. They were able to give me a couple pointers when searching for candidates and I enjoyed learning from them. We went to a delicious Taiwanese food place. They didn't eat their fortune cookies...I was appalled! I ate mine and Kathy's...that's the best part about eating at Asian food restaurants.

FRIDAY
This could be called sugar Friday. I definitely got my fix for sugar this day. I couldn't believe it! I got to work and there was breakfast...awesome! I loaded up on fruit and a mini burrito and donuts...like any good second breakfast eater should. We had a meeting with the entire global acquisition team! It was a neat experience. We had people listening in via phone and people in Salt Lake and other locations on live cam. We heard from the VP of HR and then the president of marketplaces. It was an inspiring meeting and reminded me of how lucky I am to be working for a company that is so value driven and focused on customers.

During lunch, we had an intern lunch with these fantastically rich and delicious cupcakes...imagine the best cupcake you've ever had and add goodness and you have what I had. There were three different kinds...of course I had to eat the chocolate mousse one and then grab the birthday cake and another chocolate one for the road...I physically thought I would die if I ate another one right then or even later that day. I finished them on Saturday afternoon.

I had a date with Surfer boy. He made us a three course meal. A gourmet salad that he put together before coming home from work, then a noodle/zucchini/squash/goat cheese casserole, and finally a bowl of vanilla ice cream with fresh raspberries and pieces of chocolate. The goat cheese a little hard to get down, but the entire meal was quite impressive. He said he loves to cook, that's fabulous because I definitely wouldn't put cooking under my love category of hobbies. I do it because I love to eat healthy and delicious food. After dinner we went to a show. It was at a play house in Los Altos called the Bus Barn Theater and we watched a show called "Company." I don't think the tickets were very cheap and it was a pretty good show. And, I am positive we were the youngest people watching the show by at least 30 years...there were a lot of old people...probably locals who buy their season passes. I was laughing so hard when I saw the demographic and how much two tall, white, blonde kids stuck out.

The show was funny because it was about a guy who is in his mid-thirties and only has married friends and is trying to figure out if marriage is for him or not...I began to realize oh, young single adults around the world struggle and make fun of the same things we do in Cougarville. I thought for a minute we were almost back there...but, some of the humor wouldn't be acceptable for the crowd there. They had a little gathering afterwards with cheese and wine. We went to check it out and Surfer boy got some cheese and cookie. I was so stuffed I passed. It was a fun evening and I was impressed with the effort and planning he put into the evening. My guess is we'll do something again.

SATURDAY
I did laundry in the morning and I had the funniest moment for laundry ever...check out this pic. I didn't realize that canvas would shrink in the wash!!!!

The one on the right is the one that I washed...significantly smaller...

I was disappointed. I think Sue will let me have hers that isn't small because I loved having the big bag and she doesn't really care. We soon headed out to the grocery store. Before we left, I said alright, we're off for an adventure. Sure enough we were! We just bought too much stuff...they don't give you grocery bags here and by the time we were done shopping, we had too much to carry home...so, this is what we did.

Sue waiting at the stoplight so we could cross. 

Right on yo.

We may have just rolled it into our apartment...for convenient unloading...

I pushed Sue back to the grocery store in our empty cart.

I was laughing so hard all the way to our apartment with a grocery cart full of food and then going back pushing a little Asian in my basket. I will never forget it. People probably thought we were crazy and maybe we were. We just borrowed the cart and pulled it into our house, no big deal. 

I played at the park in the afternoon with Trevor and played cards and watched an episode of Psych. It was fun, although he talks too much...even Sue agreed with me.

SUNDAY
Nothing out of the ordinary happened. I went to a game night that night with Kelly and her future hubby, they were so nice to come and pick me up. I didn't even have to ask, Josh just asked me if I wanted to go. Roommate #2 arrived also. I didn't really get a chance to talk to her. She is from China and goes to Berkeley. She seems pretty cool, although I really haven't talked to her much.

This week has been fun and full of adventures, as you can see. I hope enjoyed reading it...I know it is a very long post. Thanks for caring.

Peace out.

the tall girl

Week 2 - Surf's Up!

Time is flying by! I can't believe another week has swept by. What fun it has been, and more stories to tell. I hope you enjoy :)

MONDAY
I actually went to FHE because I got up the courage to ask someone for a ride. I met the other Kitt that is in the ward, it was at his house!...I can't believe there is another person in this world named Kitt...spelled exactly like mine...When I met him, he told me that I need to go by my middle name. I said, then I will call you by your middle name...what is it? He said, Kitt is my middle name...I said, oh, so you should go by your first name like everyone else, majority rules. He will probably call me Virginia and I will call him Jamie...But, it is so confusing having another Kitt. This has never happened to me before! I turn every time I hear the name...I am glad it's his middle name, so I still haven't really met someone that really has my name...middle names don't count.

TUESDAY
My first coffee story. My manager's manager...so the manager of my whole sourcing team told me they were going for a coffee break as I was getting water from the sink. I said, "Oh, no, water break!" He laughed and asked, "You don't drink coffee?" When I said no, he replied, "Well, you will soon!" When they actually went on their coffee break I was on the phone. He looked at my manager and said, "Kitt's going to have her first coffee today! Let's go!" I apologized and said I couldn't come because of the call I was on...luckily I got out of it that time...It will be an interesting conversation with him when I actually have to explain later that I don't just not drink it, but I won't...his mind will probably be blown and hopefully I won't offend him. ...Later in the week another co-worker told me that I shouldn't start drinking coffee because it truly does become an addiction. Interesting. He is also the person that asked me if he should ever ask me to get coffee again after I declined the first time.

WEDNESDAY
I found out I am so lucky as to give the RS lesson on Sunday, to the RS that I know only about 5 people. Haha, it will be good though. I will get to know them much better by teaching them.

I got another computer screen! It's fun having two, sometimes three when I open up my laptop that usually sits on that doc by the phone. I have my own control tower! 

THURSDAY
The kid who kinda asked me on a date last week came over and we played SkipBo. I was grateful to not have to be alone in my apartment for another evening. It kinda gives me the creeps after being alone for so long. We had fun and it was good to get to know him better.

FRIDAY
I went to Kelly's bridal shower and won four roses for catching people saying Kelly, wedding, and bride. It was a fun evening and good to get to know some other sisters in the ward.

My roommate also came. Susan is funny. She called me because she couldn't find our apartment...this was about midnight. I was hoping to be asleep. She had so much energy though and started unpacking immediately. I figured she'd take a bed in the other room since no one else is here...nope, she chose to share mine. Interesting. She is a year younger than me and probably acts like all other undergrads...I am just used to Cougar School where they're a little more mature. I found out she has never met a Mormon, but she knows we have very "strict rules." She is from Korea and is Buddhist. I hope we have some good religious discussions. Two more Asians are coming to room with me too. This is going to be one interesting adventure! :)

SATURDAY - Surf Day!
I actually went surfing!!! Well, it was my first time ever so I mainly flushed my mouth and nose with salt water multiple times. Alex asked my last Sunday if I wanted to be his surfing buddy, and of course I agreed. Half of me thought he was joking and just saying it as a funny comment....but Monday night he got my number and called me to see if I wanted to go with him. Of course I agreed. Surfing has been on my bucket list for forever. We went to Pacifica, which was a beautiful beach! It was pretty foggy, so we didn't see the sun at all, but the wetsuits kept us nice and warm.

When I first got into the water, I had overwhelming fear! Oh, I was terrified! I almost backed out...but, I had paid the price to rent and Alex was very good at encouraging me to go deeper and eventually start paddling on my board. The hardest part is getting past where most of the waves crash. You have to fight the water. I felt like I would be taking one step forward and two steps back, but we eventually made it out past the crashing waves. I practiced paddling and turning around on my board and I finally caught a wave! I didn't try to stand up, I got onto my knees a little bit before I fell. I had a really good run when I actually went all the way to the shore riding on my knees with one in the air! Oh, what an awesome feeling it was to ride the wave. All the hard work and energy paid off. I caught a couple more, but that one was definitely my best. We surfed for a couple hours and went and ate lunch and headed back out for another hour or so.

We were exhausted and freezing by the time we finished...I had no physical energy to catch waves anymore. A couple times I got caught behind where the waves were crashing and didn't have enough energy to get up a little farther to actually catch one. As I got closer, I didn't have the energy to create momentum and the waves just crashed on top of me. I got better at not freaking out as the massive amounts of water rushed over my head not allowing me to get above water and the board pulling my leg in one direction. (Those swimming lessons as a kid really pay off!) I felt as soon as i got back on my board, another wave would crash on top of me and repeat the whole scenario. That's when I really started to pray that I could just get back to a place I could touch the bottom or that I would actually catch the final wave to get in. My calves were getting charlie horses from the cold water and pointing my toes for extended periods of time while paddling...the charlie horses scared me the most. I did get in and I was safe and I was grateful we both exhausted ourselves at the same time so we could leave.

The only injuries I walked away with are bruises on my hips and ribs where the bones rubbed against the board while I was paddling. I have a couple bruises on my elbows and the leg I wore the connector on has some bruises on the ankle. Even with all of this, I will go again. :) I loved it and enjoyed being in the water. Alex was a good teacher and it was fun to get to know him better. I am grateful I went and I am sure my entire body will be sore tomorrow...it is already sinking in. Getting into the hot tub when we got back felt so good! It helped us both relax and actually warm up.

Surf's Up at Pacifica Beach, CA

SUNDAY
This was a good day and another dinner provided for the ward by the lovely couple that feeds our ward twice a month just because of the goodness of their souls. I enjoyed the morning studying for my lesson. The lesson went pretty well, I think. In the middle of it, the RS president stood up and started squealing! A spider was descending from the ceiling! This girl had the bright idea to get a hymn book just to catch it and take it outside, but as she was carrying it, it started crawling towards her and she freaked out and threw the hymn book down the hall. I was in the middle of reading a quote and it was tricky to get back on track, but we made it. I am pretty sure the spider was more memorable than the lesson for most people.

I have some awesome stories coming, so stay tuned. Sure love ya.

Peace Out.

the tall girl

Week One - Can you survive in Silicon Valley without a smart phone?

HOME

First, some pics of my trip home and my adventures there:

Gilbert AZ Temple

 A quilt I made for my friend who is having a baby in July!

Pics from the 4-wheeler ride

This was practically the first question that I was asked when I arrived in San Jose. So far, I have survived...not that I haven't had to have someone right there with one, but I haven't had to personally use it. I may even get one from work, we'll see. So, I am here. I can't believe it and I kind of feel like I have been here forever. Here's a play by play of the last week of the tall girl's life. 

SATURDAY

Craziest day ever! Goodness. The airport was jam packed! This picture doesn't even do it justice. I arrived approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes before my flight. I ran through security and made it to my plane as they were calling my name wondering where I was. I was terrified I was going to miss my flight to San Jose.

Of course, my bags were checked late and there was no guarantee I would get them to San Jose on my flight. As I am sitting on the plane, with sweat dripping down my face and a need to go to the bathroom, I looked out the window to see my bags get put on the plane! What a miracle. As soon as the seatbelt sign went off, I was up and to the potty. It practically killed me. It was a little more stressful beginning than I expected. 

I arrived in San Jose and Papa's cousin picked me up from the airport. We stopped at my new place and then headed to their house for a BBQ. It was fun to meet some long lost cousins and I was happy to not have to spend the evening by myself wondering what to eat. 

Here is the swag I got in a goodie bag from my apartment and a few things from the first day. 

Here are the pics of my first apartment: 

I stayed in this quaint apartment for the first week in San Jose. It was nice, and I got to know some really fun people while I was there...even though I lived alone. 

SUNDAY

I was picked up for church by a kid who has now become a good friend. He said to look for a black prius, so I was expecting just him...Pretty soon, up rolls a prius and 4 men jamming out to not Sunday music. Haha, I started laughing. Binh got out of the car and asked, "Are you Kitt?!" When I said yes, he hopped out and opened the door so I could sit in the front seat. I seriously felt like the girls on the Pink Bible P&P when they are going to church...hair blowing everywhere and jamming to some tunes. They were a funny bunch of kids. 

MONDAY

First day at eBay!! Wow, it was pretty fun and very exhausting. I enjoyed getting to know people. I was one of two undergrad interns, the tallest, one of two white girls, and the only one from BYU…the only Mormon. Jesse Beckom asked me straight up if I was a Mormon, he’s the first and I’m sure many more to come. He’s also an Olympic athlete…no big deal. He was on the men’s bobsled team and is down here to get some experience in business so he can move forward with a career. I worked out when I got home and then went to the Asian market with Jesse to see all the crazy random and scary stuff they have there. Then we went to Burger King to get cash. He's a pretty dang good body guard I'd say. :)

 Yes, this is a pez machine wall.

I was a bit over dressed...believe it or not. 

TUESDAY

A pretty good first day on the job. I actually met my team. They are all super nice. I am doing training with a lady who is in Texas! Welcome to a global company. I spent the day on the phone and watching her share her screen with me. Pretty crazy. I got a fancy new computer that is touch screen!! Ahhh! Haha, wish I could keep it. I ate my first Vietnamese food today, and it was pretty good. I enjoyed it! Lunch was funny with these three ladies. They found out I was Mormon and were kind of horrified/surprised. We had an interesting conversation about young marraiges…Connie thought she was young at the age of 26! What a different culture I am in. This is going to be fun! 

This is Jesse's hand, not mine haha.

THURSDAY

We had a work social where we played Bocci ball, indoors, on a bocci ball court/bar.Who has ever heard of that?! Most of my co-workers drank while we were there. Such an interesting phenomenon that it is. I have now seen alcohol at work twice...there was a baby shower on my first day, which there was wine at. I didn't drink...just in case you were wondering. I am surrounded by interesting humor and words all day, I will need to work to make sure I don't repeat. ;) I won this for being the only person on my team that didn't leave the game part way through...we kind of made a come back too. 

It says, "Kitt Bryce, Preseverance Under Fire"

My name plate.

FRIDAY

I got asked on a date...kinda. I moved into a new place that is absolutely ridiculously nice...here are some pics. But, I planned to watch a movie with Kelly because she helped me move and I now had a nice lounge and theater room in the complex to watch movies. He ended up joining us instead of doing what he thought about doing...maybe a date later...we'll see. 

SATURDAY

The kid who asked me out called up and said he ran into someone from the ward and they were heading to the beach in Santa Cruz!! So, we joined the fun! It was awesome! It got cold at night, but it was the perfect day. I wish I had some pics to share about this, but it didn't work out. I thoroughly enjoyed myself tho. I loved playing in the sand, water, and sun. It was relaxing and beautiful. It was seriously a day and evening trip. I didn't get home until about 11. Long day, but full of fun! I hope we get to go to the beach often. 

SUNDAY

I am going to stay in the MV ward. I just grew too close to the people in a short time and I don't want to leave. I enjoyed a fireside from Kris Anne that night about the brain. It was again solidified that I am a left brained person. Interesting...but, that's how every test has resulted. I enjoyed Sunday, although they are usually busy. 

Off to another week of work. I hope you have enjoyed reading. If I get too boring, let me know and I will tone it down. 

One thing I have learned already, is staying close to the Savior is so important. Putting the Gospel first can be hard, especially when it comes to daily stuff. But, when you do it, you are blessed. 

Take care.

-the tall girl