Loving life...

You're probably going to laugh BUT this week our apartment failed our cleaning checks again. You know how you get checked once and then they came back. Well that was what we failed; however, remember how we spent over 8 hours scrubbing for the second time. No lies. I was on my hands and knees in the bathroom. Sick. I almost puked all over myself. Then, when we found out that we failed--it was all on.

First of all, we (as an apartment) lamented our sorrows by going to Taco Tuesday at Del Taco. After discussing the way that we were going to talk to our management, we came home and drafted a very 'legal' sounding letter that cited a breach of contract and, I'm ashamed to say, discrimination. My roommates thought it would be a good idea at the time, but I wasn't a fan after we had actually spoken to the management. You see, right after we failed, we checked other apartments that passed in our complex. We were failed on things that obviously weren't checked in the other apartments. We concluded that they obviously didn't like us for some reason--hence the discrimination note. You may think that we didn't get any love after we presented the management with it, however, WE DID! They said that they hoped we would pass next time and that they had made a mistake unrelated to the second check. So, we don't have to pay $200 or something to get the apartment re-cleaned.

So, after that (on Wednesday) Ryan, Jill, Katie, and I went to do some cookin' at the Bell tower. We made smores and then played around on "elfyourself.com"--so freaking funny. One of my favorites was when we put President Samuelson's face on an elf and that elf just happened to shimmy! Ha ha. The Bell Tower is a great place. During this most recent visit, and the many times before, we've gotten together and just partied like it was 1999. Two of the three times I've made smores at the Bell Tower, we had an actual dance party to the radio in my car...we were outside of the car when we danced.

This picture here is just before Garrett, Liz, Ian, Ryan, Jonathan, and I went to the movies. This was also the night that EVERYONE loved Ryan's hooded sweatshirt with Elvis' face on the hood part. I even freaked out when I thought Ryan was just staring at me and other people. We were also blessed with a visit from our Snow College buddies this week. Dan Anderson and his crew came and we just showed them all a good time. It was awesome.

On Friday I got to drive all the way out to Weber State University for a Utah Student Council President's meeting. They have an awesome campus and a brand spanking new Student Union Building--good times! Then after that, I made my way back to MC the first EVER Mr. BYU! We had some slightly inappropriate acts that made it past the screening process, but overall it was a great event. Hit up Village Inn for a late night dinner with Dani, Jody, and Lee, then went to bed! Oh my. I've never been to Village Inn for an actual meal (except when Mum, my sister, and I ate pie there). So we had heaps of fun ordering breakfast at 11pm at night. Don't hate.

Then we had the game versus Utah yesterday. I still have to give a shout out to the team. I think that we made mistakes, but no one (not even Utah State) gets out onto the field and intends to lose. Max and the team tried their hardest to win and I think that it's at times like this that we have to suck it up. Show the cougars your support because they are probably feeling the burn ten times more than you are.

Mission President's Shout out!

Many of you have likely never met my mission president or his wife. They are good people. President Strong teaches a Book of Mormon class and is an admissions counselor at BYU. Sister Strong is a great 'Mom'--you'd never even guess she's had nine children (faithful RM's and all married in the temple). You'll also probably not remember the song "I'll build you a rainbow" (featured in 'Seminary's Greatest Hits') but President Strong wrote it. Like I said, good people.

So, last night about 30 other former Adelaide missionaries and I went to his house and listened as he discussed the world that we are living in. We all sat in a circle made out of folding chairs in the basement of their Orem home and listened. I had heard many of the thoughts and scriptures he shared--but that didn't matter. I knew that what he was teaching us needed to be heard...really heard. Too often I find myself wandering around inside my head. I know that many people do that too--it's that period of thought when your eyes glaze over and you can only half hear what's actually going on. I wish you could all have felt of the spirit that was there. The spirit that always testifies of the truth.

Friends and Family, I care about you. I want you to know that I love you and want the best for you. As the whole world continues to fall down around us, we need to remember that labeling ourselves or putting ourselves into groups only DIVIDES us. You know what I'm talking about, I've done it before. "Oh, I'm not an American, I'm a New Zealander" "I'm a drama kid, not a sports jock" "I go to UVU, not BYU" We need to stop dividing/labeling/excluding ourselves because someday we need to become Zion (you know "One heart and one mind"). This will never happen if we continue in the pattern that has become so common place in our society--being different. We all want to be different. How about we err on the Lords side of the line to be different? I'm trying hard to have this be my motto in life. Give it a try, you'll feel much better. Remember who we are and follow the prophets.

Heber C. Kimball said:

If you have not got the testimony, live right and. . . call upon the Lord and cease not til you obtain it. . . The time will come when no man or woman will be able to endure on borrowed light. Each will have to be guided by the light within himself.

[Orson F. Whitney, Life of Heber C. Kimball (Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1967), pp. 449­450]

Shows and stuff

I had a pretty interesting week--I saw Aida with my friend Betsy on Wednesday. Remember how I knew 3-4 people in the cast of that show. I knew about my two young ambassador friends, Bailee and Josie, who played Aida; but I didn't know about my friend Alan Babcock (also known as the best Beyonce wannabe back-up dancer ever) who was "Man 3" or Mack Seiler who was also in the cast. All I can say is: Wow.

I just want to give a shout out to my friend Alan BECAUSE I never knew he was even in plays. Why has that not come up in conversation? Not only that, but his biography said that he'd been in about six other plays including "Fiddler on the Roof" and "West Side Story." Good show. Good show.

Then, I also went to "Savior of the World" for a ward activity (Lauren came too) on Thursday. I just want to say that "Savior of the World" was probably one of the best depictions of Jesus' birth and Resurrection that I've ever seen. I feel like the show really captured the essence of what happened. The spirit was amazing and I loved it. If you are in Salt Lake, go and see it--you will not regret it!

We also had our BYUSA retreat this last Friday and Saturday. For dinner on Friday we had make-your-own Costa Vida--for reals. When I first arrived from NZ, our bishopric used to treat us to Costa Vida salads after temple trips. We just loved it and so the suggestion was made for the retreat and then it was done. They did an amazing deal for us. We also enjoyed each others company, experienced trainings, and got feedback on what we can do better. We started a little dance party (good times)--we had some great moves and an even better show. We chatted with each other and some people watched "Kung Fu Panda." That's right it was a great little retreat.

Last night was pretty fun as well. First up, it started out with Ryan at BK's. Then we went to Liz Bell's Variety Show and long story short--we started a dance party outside the Carillon Bell Tower while making smores on the lights! It takes about 15 minutes to make them but you get to skip smelling like smoke and getting it all in your eyes. Following that we went to the movies...there were about 10 of us and we loved it. I also found out that my little brother Caleb was born the same day as Mr. Ryan Stewart--July 7th, 1986. I thought that was hilarious. In fact, if my brother was a member of the church he might have turned out like Ryan. Maybe. Here's a little picture of Caleb.

The Historical Week--good, bad, and the ugly

Well, first things first, America voted in a new President today--Barack Obama became the first black president of the United States. I guess a congratulations is in order then. I have to laugh because there are a lot of New Zealanders and other foreign nationals that support Mr. Obama. I really have not done too much research on him, but I think that this is a huge thing for the people of America. We shall see how it all goes.

Also, the Californian state proposition, to define marriage being between one man and one woman, passed this week. However, because the church wanted to uphold the sanctity of 'family' they were attacked by many angry people. People calling 'the Mormons' bigots and intolerant--what an interesting protest. Let's rally together to protest against a religion by misconstruing the message they've sent. Let's call people names and yell at them. Let's go to their headquarters in Salt Lake and march around for hours in the cold. Let's label them and make people hate them. Not good. I'm saddened to see what this world is coming to--this is not the civil rights movement and you cannot be compared to Black America. I'm all for civil, human, and any rights--unless you decide to impose on others (Murder, and hate rallies). My thoughts just go to my children (wherever they are); what a world they will have to live in.

Finally, you guessed it. Back into the President's box for the final home game of this season. What a little ripper. We got to chill with a few of the brethren: Elder Scott (we sang him "Happy Birthday"), Elder and Sister Perry (love them both), Elder Oaks, Elder Sybrowsky, Elder Dellenbach, and Elder Madsen (he mentioned that he had seen me in the "New Years Eve" video the church just made). What an opportunity?! They also really enjoyed having us cheer and make noise in the box. Elder Perry said, "We love having you here. You bring life and excitement to us dead people." Sister Tanner, former General Young Women's President, also said that she enjoyed having us there making noise. Elder Perry also charged us, during the BYU vs. San Diego State game, to make sure that we have a variety of activities at BYU and that "noone is left out." He said, "You need to find people that you can help, and make a difference in their lives. They need to be lifted."

Oh, what a blessing it is to be at BYU. I also caught up with Brother Steven's this past Monday for lunch. We had a good catch up about life and then he said, "Well, you go take your car down to the Chevy dealership and see what you can get to trade-up to a newer model. Don't worry about any accessories, just get the same Cobalt--only newer." What the? Really? Who does that? Here I was, pretty content with the car I have (a 2007 Chevy Cobalt) and he wanted to switch it. Wowzers.

Halloween and friends

Well, life has just kept on moving and the more I try to get done--the more I have. How does that even make any sense people? Anyway, lots of great things happened this last week. I went to the Student Alumni Association Networking Dinner on Thursday. What a fun night?! I loved being able to meet with Tim Sheehan, from Senator Bennett's office, over dinner with other students. I also just had fun listening to John Dye, President of Fluid Studios, speak about Networking and how important it is for us to do. People can really get a lot done if you value people.

Then on Friday I had a great surprise! Some little thiefs had stolen my clothes and dressed up as me for Halloween. Who does that? Can you tell which one is me? We all look so alike. Who would've guessed that with a change in wardrobe, a bit of black hair spray, and a cheesy smile--anyone could be 'Adam Ruri.' Needless to say, I thought it was hilarious.

Following that, I went with Brad, Scott, and some of their ward friends "Party hopping!" We had heaps of fun, with pictures to prove it. Oh, and I decided to dress up as a 'magician' because I had a spare cape and top hat at home. I love cheap costumes. What I didn't like, however, was people who actually forgot their costumes (and shame) at home. I mean, some people just walked out of their apartments only wearing underwear. At first I thought that they must have been too poor to buy a costume (like me), until I realized they were getting out of Hummers and 2009 Honda's. How forgetful, I hope I never go dancing and forget my clothes. They must've been so embarrassed when they realized. ;)

Then, to top all of that off, on Saturday night we went to the funnest Murder Mystery Party ever! (Yes, funnest is a word) We were werewolves and we knew how to party!

Blog tagging...

This next blog may or may not uplift your life. I wanted to reply to this thing called 'tagging.' First off, for those of you who are not aware of what a 'tag' is, don't ask me. All I know is that I was 'tagged' (whatever that means) by Mindy Marie Thornley--so I decided to reply since you all haven't heard from me for ages. I also may or may not ever receive a tag again. Also in the picture here, Mindy is the girl in the pink--I was afraid for my life.

Here is what I have to reply to: "In 47 words or less, describe your thoughts on suspenders and why you think people don't wear them more often and why you think they should: What is ONE question you refuse to answer? (Tricked you there with the one, didn't I?) What is the answer to the question of question #11? Have you ever wanted to ask someone, 'Is that your real arm?'"

I think suspenders are great. In fact, as a young man, I owned and frequently used a pair of suspenders--they were multicolored (maroon, green, and blue I think). I refuse to answer the question about "Things I've never told anyone." I think the answer to question 11 is that I like them--my teeth that is. They are straight and I've never had braces. No, I have never wanted to ask anyone if that was their real arm.

Ummm...and that was 79 words.

As far as the 'photo tag' goes, I'm not at my laptop, so I'll have to do it another time. The end.

The week that came and went

I really needed to include this High School drama production picture my New Zealand friend posted on Facebook. Yes, I was probably about 17 years old in the picture, I had longer hair, and I am wearing a "Janet Jackson" microphone--if you can't see it. Anyway, I've had an action-packed week this week. I'm not sure that this is ever going to calm down--but I hope it does.

Firstly, because I was trying to prepare for the two minute talk I had to give in devotional on Tuesday, this week was the first time for over a month that I stayed up till 12:30pmish during a weekday. That might not be that shocking to any of you, but I thought that I had to confess that on my blog. Now I feel better about myself. In the same breath, I did still wake up to work-out the next morning at 6.30am. You betcha.

So, probably because you all know I'm somewhat of an extrovert, I had the greatest day on Tuesday. Two reasons: I spoke in the Marriott Center--everyone laughed (Click here for the Daily Universe article), and I ran into Tamilisa from the Church Audio Visual Department, who then had me make an appearance in a new Church DVD for New Years Eve celebrations across America! What are the chances? I'm walking back to the Wilk and she's like "Hi Adam, can you just wait here for like 10 minutes?" And voila. Church video stardom. Ha ha ha ha ha. Maybe one day I can move up the ranks to maybe sing on an EFY CD? (Seriously though, that's my next dream).

Also, Joseph Nance and I had lunch with the new San Diego Temple president, Bruce Olsen. He is also the former president of the Alumni Association, former Managing Director of Church Public Affairs, and a dear friend. He starts his term as Temple president pretty soon, hopefully we'll be able to able to pay him a visit down there. California, here we come!

She'll be coming 'round the mountain!

Yes, my mother did come to America with my sister, Ariana. They had so much fun and wanted you all to know how much they love and appreciate you. We hit up so many different places over the last week: Salt Lake City sights, Carls Jr (we don't have that in NZ), BYU, Chef's Table, Sears, Wal-Mart, Para-gliders, Friday Night Live, Grantsville visit to a relative, and the Bonneville Salt Flats. I think things like that were much more fun with my family--probably because we just talked about family and stuff wherever we went.

I wanted to highlight two of my mum and sisters favorite things this last week: THE PARTY (better believe it) and Cafe Rio (really?). Ha ha ha. They were amazed at how hard-out you all partied on Thursday. My mum commented, "You would never see anything like that in New Zealand--your friends had no shame!" Is that true friends? What mum said is true though, in comparison, a two-hour dance party would not have been successful in New Zealand. Traditionally, there is a one hour warm-up and then a one-hour warm down. If you don't believe, you might have to come/go visit. You'll love it. Oh, and if you are offended you weren't invited to the party. Don't be. I invited you all. Also, a huge shout out to Bethany and her crew for all that they did to make the evening special.

As far as Cafe Rio goes, there is really nothing like it back home. We don't really know how to do Mexican-American Food (I hyphenated that for you Manda)--but my mum is certainly going to try and replicate it back in New Zealand. We had to go there twice because she wanted the salad so bad.

Can I just say that I love my mum and sister? I was really grateful to see them; the last time was April 2007, so I we had a lot of catching up to do. I really miss/missed them.

Homecoming Extravaganza....phewee

I'm not sure how many of you noticed, but it was BYU's Homecoming last week. I had so much fun; attending various Alumni Association meetings, and even making an appearance in the Homecoming Opening Ceremonies (If anyone is interested in the Daily Universe article, click here). The week was filled with cheesy jokes and I even had lunch with Aunty Rere (my mum's sister) and her friend, Chris.

Did I mention how long or how many meetings I attended this week? Oh, over 30 hours. Goo. I did get to meet with a lot of high rollers (CEOs, Senior VP's, Managing Directors, and Attorneys), so it was really interesting too.

Probably the most important thing for me is that I actually made it through the week without having to miss too much important class information. My homework and stuff stacked up, but I think I was able to recover.