2012-2013

Yes, I realize it is the end of January, but I just never had time to get around and write about my year in review.

2012.. You could say it was the year from Hell. Everything that could happened, seemed to. We went through a lot this year as a community, friends, and as an individual. After losing our boys nearly a year ago to suicide, things changed. It was a big deal to the youth in this area. We were hit hard. But I think we came back, united and strong. I miss you Sam and Tanner. I think about you both nearly every day.

I made some incredible friends this year. I decided to open up and get to know new people. Nothing wrong with that, is there? I met so many kids from my school that I'd never even seen before. Now? They are some of my most favorite people I've had the pleasure of knowing. I may have lost some of my old friends, but I know it's going to be okay. Yeah, I miss them and the times we had, but it's time for me to grow up and live life how I want to.

I need to give a big shout out to my best friend. Six years down, a million more to go. Emily George has been my best friend since 7th grade, when we would wear matching outfits. ...we thought it was cool.. I've been through Hell and back with this girl. She has been there for me through everything that's come my way. And I hope I've been there for her! We had our first fight in 2012.. and it wasn't even a fight! That's when you know you have a good friend. Can't wait for the day I can send my kids to their Aunt Emily's. You're the best, E! Thank you for everything you've done! I don't know where I would be without you, your mom, Max, Sarah, any of you guys!

I'm no longer playing soccer. It was a big decision I had to make. In the long run, I know it's for the best. My body if finally recovering, we are saving money, and I'm getting the opportunity to work at a therapy clinic. I miss it. So much. Soccer was my life since I was 6. I grew up with my team, with my family. We try to all stay in touch, but living so far away is hard. I've been able to stick with my Fab Four girls. Britt, Squid, and Kates. They might as well be my sisters. When things at home get tough, I can call any one of them and they will be there for me in a split second. They understand me better than a lot of people here in Syracuse. I fit in with them. I'm grateful for the chance we had to play together for so long. I know those three are going to kick butt up at USU next fall, and I can't wait to see what they go on to do! You better believe our kids will be playing soccer together, one day.

2013.. BRING IT. I am so pumped for this year. My goal is to get to the temple as many times as I can until I leave for my mission. Yes, I am still planning on serving and LDS mission this upcoming fall. Am I scared? TERRIFIED. Am I excited? OF COURSE. I know it's what I need to be doing, and I feel like it will help me figure a few things out. I love my church. My testimony has grown so much in just a few months. I know that we have a God that loves us, and He sent His son to die for our sins. I'm so grateful for this church. It's helped me through so many things in so many personal ways. I have no doubt in my mind that this is the true church. I may not agree with every teensy detail, but I know that I am supposed to be there.

MY BIG SISTER IS COMING HOME! Brianna Brough is going to be home NEXT THURSDAY. I have missed my sister so much! While she was gone, I learned just how much we were alike. She's been through so much of the same stuff I have. I can't wait to hear about all of her experiences while being out on a mission. I am so proud of her and I can't wait for her to be back!

9 days until Ed Sheeran
51 days until Imagine Dragons