Finals Week

This is exactly how I have been feeling all week....

Sorry it's been a while since I've posted...we haven't had much free time. All we've done is eat, sleep (not much!) and study! We're about half way through all the tests/assignments due this week...so far I've survived...but only barely. :/ Hopefully I'll be able to make a post on Saturday or Sunday to catch everyone up on a few things (like our awesome field trip last Monday!) before I head off to Jordan in a few days! Can't wait!!!! :) 

 This is funny, since I read "Inferno" for Humanities this last summer 

and actually know what it's talking about!

Engagement Pictures! :)

How many people get the opportunity to take their engagement pictures in Jerusalem? Our friend Rosie offered to take them for us, and she did an AMAZING job. I am honestly blown away at the support Dal and I have, both here and back home. Another example...I went in my room to pick out what to wear for the pictures, and my roommates (and others) all started offering their clothes, telling me what looked good together, helping me fix my hair, etc. They were all so excited for me and willing to help out...it meant soo much to me! We really are SO blessed to be surrounded by so many wonderful friends. Anyways...there are TONS of great pics, but here are some of my favorites...enjoy! :) 

 I could have taken these pics all day...it was so fun! :)

 As I said to Rosie, "Good thing we have no problem staring at each other so much!" 

Otherwise it would have been really awkward....:)

 Thanks to Sarah Townsend for the cute outfit! :) 

And Jackson...for Dallin's pants. haha

 I could look at him all day, every day! Oh wait...I do....

 Check out that smolder!! ;) My goodness...how did I get so lucky? 

 :) Love this one.

 Yep, we're in love. :) 

 Kinda like our other pictures from the talent show...I love being dipped! 

Definitely a favorite! Love the archway, love the sunset, love the city behind us, (especially the Dome of the Rock in the background) and more than anything, love being here with that boy. :)

Arab Night!

A few weeks ago we got to have our Seder dinner with our Israel teacher, and last night we got to have our Arab night with my Arabic teacher. It was such a fun night!
We started off in the forum and were able to learn more about the "Call to Prayer", and more of the practices of Islam. It was really neat because two guests (father and son) came who recited the call to prayer as well as sections of the Qur'an for us. They had beautiful voices. It was amazing to learn that one of them had memorized the entire Qur'an at age 9. Studying and reading the Qur'an (and reciting it for others) is what they have devoted their lives to.

After that section of the evening, we went into the kitchen to have our Arab dinner. It was mostly fun just to see everyone dressed up, and to have a fun break from the stress of school. After dinner we went into the gym and some locals taught us some Palestinian dancing! It was a blast, and it basically just turned into a dance party. :) Enjoy a few pictures from the evening!

 Us ladies with our scarves :)

 I think Dallin looks like Moses :)

 So fun :) Check out Kenz's sweet turban!

 The "best dressed" of the night...pretty impressive stuff! 

 Erin and I. I love her so much! 

I love this picture..actually, I love any picture with the kids in them. They were adorable!

The Long-Awaited "Dallin-Post" :)

Well folks...I know I've been promising this post for a while now (and most of you know very little about Dallin, and our story)...and I figured today would be fitting to right it, seeing as we've been engaged for exactly one month today!! Time really has flown...wow.

I don't know where to start...I really could go on and on for hours about Dallin, how I feel about him, and how incredible our "love story" has been so far. Let me try to briefly tell our story...

Dallin has always wanted to come to Jerusalem. It's been his dream for a long time, it was just a matter of timing as far as when he was actually able to come. Things worked out for him to come this semester, and he really felt like there was a reason it was at THIS time. He had other opportunities come up, but he decided to stay with his decision, and I'm SO glad he did. I had a similar experience. I have wanted to come to Jerusalem for the past couple of years, but was never really serious about it until about a year ago. I applied though, and was really hoping to get in. As the date to find out if I was accepted approached, I started having second thoughts. It would be a lot of money, it would set my graduation date back, etc. The "logical" side of my brain started winning the battle, and I pretty much decided that even if I was accepted, I wouldn't come after all. But then the acceptance letter came and I realized there was no way I could turn down this opportunity. To create lifelong friendships, to develop a closer relationship with my Savior, to learn more about the scriptures and the life of Christ, to immerse myself in another culture, etc. So I decided once and for all to come, and never looked back again.

Fast forward a few months to August 28th. All 82 of us students had to be at the airport super early to meet for our first flight to JFK, where we had a layover before our second flight, into Tel Aviv. I was trying to be social and meet everyone, but I was kinda shy. After a few hours of hanging out in the terminal, we stood up to get in line to board the plane. It was then that I first saw Dallin. I remember realizing that I hadn't noticed or seen him until that point (which was strange cuz I had been sitting there for a couple of hours) so I went over and introduced myself to him. We went over the basics ("What's your name?", "Where are you from?", etc.) I do remember thinking he seemed really nice and really cute, but that was about it. Sorry guys, it wasn't completely love at first sight (at least not for me...you'll have to ask him for his side of the story!) Dallin then asked me where my seat on the plane was, and we realized we were a seat apart (a sweet girl named Alyssa was seated between us). The three of us had fun talking and getting to know each other. The more I found out about Dallin, the more I realized how much we had in common (for example: we both did EFY this past summer).

In the JFK airport, Dallin and I hung out and got lunch together, played card games with some other people in our group, etc. Then we had the same seats assigned to us for our second flight. We talked some more on this flight, but again...no fireworks. I definitely wasn't looking for a relationship coming into Jerusalem, I was just excited to make friends with everyone and have a neat experience. So I wasn't necessarily "interested" in Dallin - but I was really grateful to have found someone from day 1 that I was comfortable with already and could see myself being good friends with.

When we arrived in Jerusalem, Dallin and I sat by each other at the Orientation Meeting, and hung out with each other for the first day or so, kinda by default just because we didn't know anyone else very well yet. The more I got to know him, the more I liked him, but I still wasn't looking for a relationship. I really didn't want to start liking someone RIGHT away, because I was looking forward to having a four month break from relationships to figure out what I wanted, who I was, and to focus on developing friendships with everyone, rather than exclusively dating someone.

Yet the more time Dallin and I spent together those first few days, the faster I began to realize that I was starting to fall for him, fast. We had so much in common, he always made me smile, and we just seemed to click so well. But I kept pushing the thought from my mind because it was SO soon and it was completely opposite of what my plans were. I could tell he was feeling the same way though, because every time we would talk (or even both be in the same room) we would catch ourselves staring at each other. It's hard to explain but it's like we can't seem to break eye contact (which is weird for me, because usually I can't look into someones eyes for more than a few seconds without looking away). It's kinda ridiculous but yes...we still do it, even now. Probably because he has the most beautiful eyes in the world...but I digress. :)

The 2nd or 3rd day we were here, we told each other about our past relationships. We found out that we were in very similar situations. We both had someone back home that we had pretty much cut ties with, but that was still hoping for things to work out with us. We both came to Jerusalem hoping to get some clarity about whether or not we should be with them, because neither of us had felt "right" about being with them, even though they were wonderful people and we cared deeply about them. I loved how open we could be about everything (ex's, family, fears, goals, etc) from the very first day. I became close friends with several people here pretty quickly, but with Dallin, I felt like we had been friends for years. But we never talked about our growing feelings for each other, even though it was assumed on both sides I think.

Then...we played Sardines one night (probably the 4th or 5th night here?) and that's where it all began. :) We went around the center together, trying to find the hiding spot. We ended up finding it, and climbing up in this storage closet with the others. It was practically pitch dark and we were all squished together. During this game, in that closet, somehow Dallin and I ended up holding hands behind someone's back. I'm not sure who initiated it, but I remember getting really excited about it. Yet at the same time, logical Kassie was immediately thinking "Oh no...we can't do this. I don't want to date anyone here! It's only the first week Kassie!" So naturally, I told him we should talk about what had happened. The next day, we had our first "DTR" (Define the Relationship). We told each other that yes, we were interested in each other, and felt something special for the other, but it just wasn't good timing and it wasn't in our plans. We kinda left it saying "Let's stay good friends while we're here, and if we still want to try dating when we get back to Provo, we'll give it a shot." We even decided that in the meantime, it'd be funny because people would "think" we liked each other (cuz we were always together) but we would both know we were only friends. (ha!!!) Well, we thought we had it taken care of but then...just a few hours later....

We were sitting on our couch (see previous post), talking...and doing the staring thing...and "apparently" I kept looking at his mouth, so he made some smart remark about how girls only look at a guys mouth if they want to kiss them, and I gave him a hard time about it, and completely denied it. But turned bright red, cuz there was SOME truth in it. Okay, maybe a lot. Anyways, it was at that point (and the more we would look at each other, and be able to see how the other was feeling) that we realized it was hopeless - there was no way we could "just be friends". All of this is kinda a blur because it happened so fast (yet it was gradual...if that makes any sense...so I guess it was gradual quickly? haha)  but I think it was that same day that I asked him "On a scale of 1-10, 1 being "you're an alright friend" and 10 is "take me to the temple (marry me!)" where would I be on that scale?" We kinda told each other we were around a 4 on that scale. From that point on...every time Dallin did something I found extremely attractive or impressive, I'd tell him "Uh oh...4.3." or something along those lines. He did the same, and we slowly started climbing each other's scales. (Side note: We have continued climbing those scales...the last rating I gave him was 100.99 I believe....)

Honestly this next part gets pretty fuzzy to me. I don't remember how it all happened, but I do know that the more time we spent together (pretty much 24/7 except for sleeping) and the more we talked, the more I realized he was everything I had ever wanted and hoped for, and I realized how perfect we were for each other. Little things kept happening (to us individually, and to us together) that proved to us that this was completely meant to be. Even though it was CRAZY and so fast, Heavenly Father had definitely set us up, and He knew what He was doing. We couldn't deny the connection we had, or how we were being led together. It was the most unreal feeling I'd ever had (it still is!) but I KNEW I was supposed to be with Dallin, and I was so happy and at peace. I didn't doubt it, or fight it, which is really strange for me (usually I over-think relationships and worry and wonder). Anyways, at some point, I wrote on Dallin's hand with a pen, gave him a rating (it was 7.0 I think?) and wrote "I love you...crazy, right?" (He took a picture...I'll have to get it from him and add it to the blog :)...) I think that's the first time we said the "L" word. The neat thing is that it was before our first kiss (which was soon thereafter). The neat thing about our first kiss is that it felt so natural. I was excited and twitterpated..but I wasn't nervous (well...besides being paranoid because there are people and security cameras EVERYWHERE here at the center...haha). It felt completely normal and right to kiss him, it wasn't a big deal. It didn't feel like a "first kiss".

There are SO many little things that happened during those first couple of weeks that were tender mercies and miracles, confirming the fact that us being together was perfect and right, but one that really sticks out in my mind was my first night in "my spot" (I wrote about this spot in a previous post). Dallin and I went outside at sunset and just talked about personal, serious things (dreams, goals, our testimonies of the gospel, etc). It was a really incredible conversation and meant so much to me, because I realized (even more so) what an amazing person he was, and how he was everything I'd ever wanted. He left to go inside to eat, and I sat looking out over the city, watching the sunset, writing in my journal, reading the scriptures, praying, etc. I got an incredible feeling of peace and just felt that I was where I needed to be, in the situation I needed to be, and that Dallin was a part of that. Then Dallin came back out and as I saw him and continued to talk to him, I couldn't stop smiling because I just KNEW. (People always say "When it's right...you'll know", but because of so many past relationships that never had that feeling, and going through so much confusion and frustration, I was starting to wonder if that statement was really true. I'm here to witness that it is. If it's right...it's right, and you'll know it!!)

I don't remember the exact day that we decided we were for sure going to get married, but it was pretty quick (maybe a week and a half after we had been here in Jerusalem). Crazy, right? The craziest part was that it felt so right and we had so much peace about it, even though we knew logically it was insane. (The best part is that I've still never ONCE doubted it, and the peace has never left...it's only deepened!) Another miracle was that our families didn't send us to an insane asylum either...they have been supportive and excited for us all along, which has meant the world to us. They can tell how happy we are, and how perfect we are for each other, and they can't deny that it's "meant to be" either. :) It's absolutely incredible how everything has worked out for us. Heavenly Father definitely set us up, and He's definitely been blessing us during this entire process!

Ahh...there's SO many things I want to write about, but there's just not time. I'll try to keep this brief. :/

Anyways...three weeks into our semester here in Jerusalem, we all went to Turkey for a week (again, see previous post!) It was sooo much fun! As I mentioned in my Turkey post, Dallin officially proposed that week, on the shore of the Aegean Sea, under the stars (one month ago today!) I knew it was coming, and we already had the date and the temple and everything planned (and he used a temporary ring) but even with all of that - it was perfect. I was so happy to say yes, and it was such a relief to finally have it "official"! It was also really fun the next day to announce it on the bus to everyone (some people knew it was coming, others were completely shocked). Everyone here has been so supportive and excited for us all along though. Again, we are SO blessed for the support system we have (both here and back at home).

This past month has been INSANELY busy. So much school work, fun field trips, activities here in the center, time with friends, trying to plan our wedding from a country away (again, another shout out to our amazing families for all the work they are putting in for us!! We love you!), etc. The amazing thing is that even though it's so fast, we literally spend an average of 15-18 hours together every single day, seven days a week, and have for the past 7 weeks. When you think about how many months it would take to accumulate that much time with someone in a normal environment, it's like we've been together for months! (maybe even over a year). Plus we've been to three countries together, had incredible spiritual experiences together, and learned and grown so much together. Some people worry that because of this unique setting, we are just having so much fun that we are infatuated but are going to struggle when we hit "real life". But in reality, even though its been fun, 90 percent of what we do together here is study. We eat meals together, we do homework together, etc. It really is the monotonous, every day things that we do together. We have never even been on a real date together! We can't go anywhere alone (we always have to be in groups of three). So we are SO excited for when we'll be back in Provo together and can actually go on dates, and watch movies, and hold hands in public, and do all of those things together. Being here together is wonderful, and I wouldn't trade it for the world, but it's not as glamorous as it may seem, at least not all the time! Just clarifying that for everyone. :)

If you want to know more about Dallin, here are a few basics. :) He is the middle of 5 kids, is from West Valley Utah, and will be turning 24 in a couple of months. He's studying Ancient Near Eastern Studies at BYU and wants to be a seminary teacher (which I find extremely attractive. I LOVE his love of the gospel, and how passionate he is about teaching it). He is good at everything...no exaggeration. From sports to singing to dancing to playing chess to cooking...the list goes on and on. Most recently he did cheer at BYU so you might have seen him at some of the BYU games! He did EFY the last two summers, so we share that love of EFY. He also served a two year mission for our church in Tokyo Japan. Any other questions, either ask me or facebook stalk him :)

Now to describe Dallin: He's perfect. :) Really though, I'm continuously blown away by how incredible he is and how he makes me feel. I've never been more in awe of someone, or felt so adored by someone. I honestly feel like I was never my complete self until he was in my life...it's the most incredible feeling, and I can't get enough of it. And it just keeps getting better and better. We make each other SO happy, and we have so much fun together. Yet we also just love talking, and we have the same goals, perspectives and desires. I can't wait to marry him and to raise children with him and to continue living the gospel with him. He is so kind, so selfless, so intelligent, so fun, so attractive...I couldn't have dreamed up anyone better than him. He honestly exceeds every expectation I ever had. I am sooo incredibly blessed, and can't imagine anything being any more perfect than it is right now.

Like I said, I could go on and on...but I really need to do my homework, so I'm going to wrap this up. I have LOTS of pictures of us, but several have been posted in previous posts. These two are from tonight -we ended up matching again today (I promise we never plan it) so we had to take some pictures. The gorgeous sunset behind us was hard to pass up. :) I am sooo in love with this boy!

The Holocaust

   The Holocaust has always been something that has intrigued me, simply because it is so horrific and unimaginable. I have learned quite a bit about it over the course of my education (and in my own study)  and even still, it's hard for me to accept the facts. It makes me sick inside to think about what happened during this part of our world's history, yet I think there are many valuable lessons that can be learned from these terrible events. 

   For our field trip on Monday (we have a field trip every week) Our Israel teacher Ophir took us to Yad Vashem. Yad Vashem is Israel's official memorial to the victims of the Holocaust. I have been to the Holocaust Museum in Washington D.C. which is incredible, and very sobering as well but...there was something different about being in Israel and looking at the Holocaust from more of a Jewish perspective. It was really emotionally draining and difficult for me. The museum was extremely well done. Each wing took you through a different part of the Holocaust period. I couldn't take any pictures inside (and I didn't get any outside because my camera died, but that's ok). 

   One of the buildings we walked through was the Children's Museum. This one was really difficult for me. Anything with children involved touches me more than other age groups. The building was almost pitch dark, but the whole room (ceiling, walls, etc) were covered with stars. As we walked through, a voice was reading the names and countries of individual children who were victims in the Holocaust. It's unbelievable to me how many innocent children had to suffer through such hell. There was a quote I saw (inside the main museum) that said something like "There were no children in the ghettos...Only small Jews." This statement made me really sad. The Jewish children during this time really were not children, they were victims just like everyone else. It made me really want to give my future children a happy and peaceful childhood...and give them a chance to be kids, like these children never got to be. 

   Another really neat thing that I learned in the museum: At the end of the museum there is the "Hall of Names". The walls are covered in pictures, and there are shelves full of books containing records of the majority of the victims. There was a tour group in there as I was in there, and the tour guide was telling the story of a woman who had been a Holocaust survivor, but never came out and talked about it, for 50 years. Somehow, through a course of events, she ended up coming to Yad Vashem (in Israel) and looked in the book at all of her family's information. She was confused, because she was the only survivor and had never come forward with any information. Then they looked at the bottom of the page to see who had submitted all of the information, and her brother's name was listed. So she discovered that her brother HAD survived, but neither of them knew (for 50 years!) that the other had made it out alive. The story had a happy ending...they were able to be reunited. I thought that was a really neat story.

   There were a lot of things in the museum that touched me, but I don't want to depress everyone more than necessary. I'll just share a few more thoughts, and my next post will be much happier, I promise (It's going to be my "Dallin" post...I'm excited!) 

   Monday night we had combined Family Home Evening (for those who are not LDS, Family Home Evening is something the church encourages us to hold each Monday night in our families. It's a time to spend together, to have fun, to play games, and to learn about the gospel. Even at BYU, we have student F.H.E. groups since we can't be with our actual families). Anyways, for this week's FHE, the Jerusalem Center was able to bring in a Holocaust survivor named Elias. He is 95 years old! He doesn't speak English, but he knows Spanish, and the two Reed brothers were able to translate for him (they served Spanish speaking missions) so that was neat. He told us about his experience in the Holocaust, and it was absolutely unreal. He is from Poland, and his entire family was killed in the Holocaust. He was in NINE different camps (including Auschwitz) during his 5 years as a victim. He said people can't believe that he actually went through what he did, and neither can he. At one point, he went two weeks without any food, and the rest of the time (for 5 years) he had a piece of bread and a cup of soup every day. That's the only thing he could think about, every single day. Those two things...bread and soup. When he was liberated, he was 79 pounds. He said even animals don't treat each other the way that the Jews were treated in the camps. Hearing his experience made it so much more real to me...this actually happened, to real people. And it was more awful than any of us can ever imagine. 

   The most amazing thing about all of it though...he was possibly the cutest, happiest, most positive person I have ever met! He radiated so much joy, and you can tell he has lived a full and wonderful life. We asked him how he was able to do that, and he said "Happiness is my vengeance on the Nazis! And I made it out, Hitler didn't!"I found his attitude absolutely incredible, and I admire him so much for choosing to move forward with his life and find joy, rather than living in fear and anger for his entire life. He married, had a family, and has shared his experiences with many groups of people. I LOVE this picture of him - photo credit goes to Annie (and I stole it from Hollie's blog). 

   A few thoughts I had today as I was thinking so much about the Holocaust:

1) I need to be more grateful. I am soo blessed, and the things that I complain about are so petty, in comparison to the hell that these people had to endure. If someone like Elias can have a positive attitude and focus his life on being happy and serving others, I absolutely have no excuse not to do the same. 

2) I can't imagine what Heavenly Father felt, watching His children do that to each other, and treat each other that way. He must have been crying the entire time. I never want to hurt anyone (physically or emotionally) and I don't want anyone else to either. 

3) This was my biggest "aha" moment: The Atonement encompasses the Holocaust. I already had a testimony of the fact that Jesus Christ has felt all of our sorrows and sins, so that we never need to feel alone. But I had never thought of that principle in this specific context. Jesus Christ experienced every pain (physical and emotional) that was felt by the victims of the Holocaust. He knows EXACTLY what they went through, even if no one else ever can. And because of that, they were never alone either. I had a really neat mental image of those who died in the Holocaust (esp. the children) returning to heaven, into the arms of our Savior, and Him just holding them and comforting them, because He knew what they were feeling. It was a really neat thought, and brought me a lot of peace.

Red Sea!

Today was our free day (remember, we have Sabbath on Saturday here in Jerusalem) and all of us went to the Red Sea for a day full of snorkeling! It was sooo fun! It was really nice to get out of Jerusalem (it was a 4 hour bus ride, one way), without any of the faculty and without any school assignments, and just enjoy a fun day at the beach! Especially since the next two weeks are going to be extremely stressful with classes...:/ Here are a few pictures from the day...enjoy! :) 

 Emily and I :) 

 Coolest pic of the day...Alex diving down to the bottom!

 Dal and I :) 

 Gotta get a kissing pic :) 

 Some of us just hanging out in the Red Sea. :) Nbd.

 A "pirate" ship we saw ;) 

This is the third sea we've been to together :) 

General Conference

Last weekend was one of my favorite weekends of the year. Every six months, we (as Latter-day Saints) are blessed to hear from our beloved prophet (and president of the church)...Thomas S. Monson as well as the twelve modern-day apostles, and other general authorities and church leaders. It involves 4 two hour sessions on Saturday and Saturday (both in October, and in April). Since we watched the sessions live, that meant we watched them from 6-8 pm and 10-midnight on Saturday and Sunday. So it was a little harder than normal to stay awake, but I love General Conference so much that it was absolutely worth it! I truly do have such a testimony that the Lord teaches us (His children) what we need to know and do to be happy, and He does it through revelation to His servants, (the prophet and apostles). They really are the Lord's messengers for us, and if we obey, follow, and apply their counsel (which is really the Lord's counsel), we will be blessed, and we will be happy! If you'd like to read, listen to, or watch any of the conference addresses (which I highly recommend!) here is the web address that will take you there: 

                              http://www.lds.org/general-conference/sessions/2012/10?lang=eng

But here are some of my favorite themes/thoughts from this weekend. Sorry it's long...there were SO many wonderful things that I heard and felt! I wish I could have gone into more details/feelings about each of the topics, but I have WAY too many notes, that this is more of a summary of what stood out to me. Hopefully it's not too scattered...

-First off, obviously I need to address the BIG change that was announced at the start of conference. For those less familiar with the LDS church, young men and young women have the opportunity to serve a full-time mission at the ages of 19 (for the young men) and 21 (for the young women). However, President Monson announced that the ages have been changed to 18 (for the young men) and 19 (for the young women). This is HUGE! This changes so many things for so many people, and for the church as a whole. I think it's a wonderful change, and I know it's inspired. This way, more missionaries will have the opportunity to serve. I remember when I was 19, wishing so badly I could serve a mission, and knowing that since I had to wait until I was 21, that opportunity might not come. If I could have served when I was 19, I would have gone in a heartbeat. Now obviously I'm getting married (which, don't get me wrong, is even MORE wonderful, and I wouldn't trade it for everything!) but many of my friends who are 19 or 20 now suddenly don't have to wait like they thought they had to. They can go now! I can't imagine the excitement I would feel if I was in their position. Missionary work is so essential and so rewarding, and I'm so excited for all my friends who will now receive the blessings from serving a full-time mission, sooner than they were expecting. I know they will bless the lives of soo many! I have a LOT of thoughts on this new policy change, but we'll leave it at this for now: I'm so excited about this change, and I'm so excited for all of the willing young men and young women who will continue to help in the cause of spreading this incredible gospel to the world! :)

-Never forsake the Master. He will never forsake me. God is never hidden, but sometimes we are. God is never unwilling to communicate with us, but sometimes we are unwilling to listen. He is always watching over us, and He is always caring about us. He has never forgotten me. I should never turn away from the Lord, or let my own pavilions cover God's active role in my life. Rather, I need to turn to Him and tell Him my deepest feelings. We often feel our Father's love most when we sincerely say, "Not my will but Thine..."We can't insist on our time table when the Lord has His own. The Lord ALWAYS keeps His promises. 

-All that is unfair about life can be made right through the Atonement. This was emphasized in several of the talks. Each of us experience sadness, heartache, frustration, loneliness, anger, etc. But there is no burden that Heavenly Father cannot lift. Even when things are lonely and/or painful, we can gain a new perspective and a new heart, as we turn to our Father. Feelings of bitterness can change to sweetness. The Atonement is the greatest evidence we have of the Father's love for us.

-Trials can make us bitter or better, closer to God or futher. It's a choice. Whatever you do, don't distance yourself from the church and the Lord. You are only hurting yourself...the church helps us protect our faith! Every person is eventually backed up to the wall of faith and must make a stand. Do all within our power to protect and defend our faith. Looking back on trials can make us grateful. Often it is during trials that we become closer to our Savior. Often during difficult times we learn and grow the most.

-My marriage and my children should be my priority...even now! Being endowed with power on high and having eternal families is worth EVERY sacrifice and EVERY effort. Hearing counsel about marriage and parenting was really neat for me this conference, because I now know who my eternal companion is, and am excited to prepare individually as well as with Dallin for both roles (as a spouse and as a parent). It was said in conference that "Marriage can bring more joy than anything else in mortality". I can already see the truth in this statement. I'm not married to him yet, but being with Dallin has brought incredible joy into my life, and I'm excited for it to continue getting better and better. :) As husband and wife, we need to always help each other in our sacred duties. 

It was also said that although marriage is for the purpose of the fulfillment of the spouses, it is also for the benefit of the children. We have soo much responsibility in raising Heavenly Father's children.

Even if we don't have kids for a few years, it's exciting to find ways now to begin to prepare our home and our lives for those special spirits.  When that time does come, it's important to begin teaching our children at their cradle side, by example and by precept. Helping, loving, and serving children is a sign of humility. We need to teach our children to live moral, righteous lives, and spiritual maturity must flourish in our homes. We need to increase our concern for God's children, because they are our world's future! 

-In the midst of distractions, do I have the strength, discipline, and commitment to remain focused on what matters most? This was a really important message for me to hear and ponder on, at this time in my life, with so many things fighting for my time and attention. There are so many distractions, and sometimes it's hard to prioritize correctly. It's essential however, that I focus on the things that matter most, and give THOSE things priority. The way to do that? Avoid future regrets:  1. Spend time with those I love. Strengthening relationships with those I love is almost always the best investment of my time. I should never let a problem to be solved become more important than a person to be loved. Along these lines, one of those people we should be "spending time with" is our Heavenly Father. In conference, it was mentioned that we should do the things that make Him as familiar to us as we are to Him, because it will make our reunion with Him so much sweeter. How do we get to know someone better? We spend time with them. We talked to them. We learn about them. That's something I need to do - spend more time getting to know my Heavenly Father. Familiarizing myself to Him, and strengthening my relationship with Him and His Son, Jesus Christ. 2. Always strive to become the person I want to become. If I have confidence and peace with who I am in my Father's eyes (and in my own eyes), I will be able to focus more on helping those around me. 3. Don't devote time to fleeting, superficial things! As mentioned before, there are SO many distractions, many of which are "good" but not essential or "best". I can always find ways to use my time more wisely, and cut out a lot of the "stuff" in my life that hinders me from productively using my time and efforts. 4. Allow myself to be happy! Life is meant to be enjoyed, so don't allow myself to be sad or down on myself. Be happy!

-Instead of preparing to serve a mission, prepare to meet God. I really liked this thought. No, I will not be serving a full-time mission at this point in my life (although Dallin and I plan to serve one together later in our lives!) but that doesn't mean I can't spiritual prepare for something great. I should always be spiritually preparing. Right now, I'm focusing on spiritually preparing to go through the temple, and make sacred covenants with my Father in Heaven. When we make and keep covenants, we come out of the world and into the kingdom of God. The things we think, say, and do change. I also should ALWAYS be spiritually preparing to meet God, because when that day comes (whenever it may be), I want to be ready! 

-Any honest seeker of truth can obtain a testimony. Any honest seeker of truth can become converted. A testimony is a source of accountability, purpose, and joy. Testimony must be coupled with conversion. The essence of conversion to the gospel is change. In our hearts and lives. Conversion requires ALL of our heart and mind. As we become converted, we strengthen those around us.

-Act upon promptings without delay! The more we act upon promptings, the more the Lord will trust us with His errands. The sweetest feeling is finding out that because you heeded a prompting, you answered someone's prayer. There is no such thing as coincidence...the Lord is in the details of our lives. Service is the very definition of pure religion. There is power in our love for God and for HIS children. "First observe, then serve"! If I notice a need, I need to immediately respond and assist that person, in their need. As I do so, I am the Savior's hands, and when I do, I am keeping my covenants. It's important to make sure I'm serving for the right reasons...because I love the Savior and want to follow His example...not for my own benefit, because I hope to get praise or reward. As I love and serve others, I will feel increasing love for those within my care. I will also feel the Father and Savior's love and approval towards me, and will come to know both of them better. 

-Feel and follow celestial promptings! Take time to be still! Expand my ability to feel and experience Christ in my life. Essential truths are often invisible to the eyes...we must see them with our hearts. Information alone is not enough; we need to be taught by the Holy Ghost (through spiritual experiences).

-Do I love Him? On the judgement day, if the Savior asked me "Did you love me?" how would I respond? The crowning characteristic of love is always loyalty. We have the opportunity to act immediately, "leave our nets", and follow Christ. We should never go back to the life we had before Christ. Now that I've found Him, and know Him, and love Him, I will never look back!

Am I the person the Savior would have me be? Am I emulating Him? Being a disciple of Christ is a process. Becoming like Him and becoming one with Him is the ultimate goal.

Do all I can, and the Lord will assist me. The Lord is always on my side when I do what is right. Knowing isn't enough...I must know, do, and become! He needs us. He needs ME. Not what I can do for the world (He doesn't need more athletes, musicians, celebrities, scientists, doctors, etc) but what I can do for HIM. Christ needs me to love, serve, preach, and teach. To learn and teach in the Savior's way. To teach what the Savior taught, but also to teach HOW the Savior taught."  

-We should know the gospel is true, but we also need to be true to the gospel. 

-I'm a Mormon. I know it, I live it, I love it. 

In summary, I feel like I gained a lot of valuable insights from this conference, and my desires to live righteously increased immensely. I realized (as I always do) that the gospel is the true source of happiness in my life. The more fully I embrace and live the gospel, the more joy I find. It doesn't mean life is easy or fair, but I know who I am and I know my relationship to my Heavenly Father and His son Jesus Christ. Because I understand the infinite and yet personal atonement that my Savior performed for me (and for all mankind) I know He understands every emotion I feel. And I know I'm never alone, I simply need to turn to my Father in Heaven, and trust His will for me in my life. The words of the prophets (both ancient and modern) are words from the Lord, and are there to bless and guide us in our lives, that we may return to live with our Father in Heaven again, and experience eternal joy with our families, forever. There's nothing I desire more, and I'm grateful this gospel provides the truths, principles, and ordinances that make that possible for me, and for those I love.

Talking about the gospel is one of my favorite things to do! If you have any questions about anything I've written (or any questions in general about the LDS church) please don't hesitate to ask. kassiejo4@gmail.com

Dome of the Rock!

After six weeks of admiring the view of the temple mount, we finally went ON it! It was so neat to see the Dome of the Rock up close...it's such a beautiful building. Unfortunately, we aren't allowed inside, but it was still amazing to admire the outside of it. After walking around the temple mount, we walked all the way to the Israel Museum (a LONG ways away). It was an exhausting day, but very worth it! It was really fun to just get out and walk around the city for a few hours. I love Jerusalem! Sorry there aren't more pictures...I literally have thousands, but try and only upload a few with each post.

Dallin and I in front of the Dome of the Rock 

Some of the lovely JC ladies and myself! Such a gorgeous building! 

Dome of the Rock! :)

As we were walking through West Jerusalem to the museum we saw this 

store and had to get a picture in front of it :) 

Some awesome chairs outside the museum!

Inside the museum...thought it was a neat background for a pic :)

Conference Post coming soon...promise!!! :) 

"Our Couch"...

So...during the first week here at the JC (Jerusalem Center, if you haven't caught on to that abbreviation yet), Dallin and I discovered the best couch in the whole place. There are lounges and study areas around the whole building...but there is only ONE couch that is super comfy. It only fits two, and we always sit there. It's where we study, it's where we meet if we can't find each other (remember, we don't have cell phones!), it's where we hang out, etc. Needless to say, we are there a lot. It became a known fact relatively quickly that this couch is "Dallin and Kassie's couch" - to the point where...if we walked over to it and someone was sitting on it, they would apologize and say "Sorry I'll move!" Pretty funny stuff. :) Anyways, everyone thinks we need to make a sign or a plaque or something, and hang it above the couch saying "Kassie and Dallin's couch". This is one of the places in the JC we will always remember for sure!!

Jericho, Seder, Shephelah, Talent Show, and City of David!

Wow...it's been so long since I've written. I keep thinking life can't get any busier, and then...it does! And the longer I'm here, the faster time flies. It's a bittersweet feeling. I LOVE it here and don't want to ever leave but...the sooner we go home, the sooner I get to marry Dallin. So it's a win-win situation! :) 

There are a TON of things I want to write about, so I'll be brief (well...try to be)....

Sunday, September 23rd: 

Normally we celebrate the Sabbath on Saturdays here (instead of Sunday) but because of the traveling from Turkey, we had a special sacrament meeting for the students on Sunday. Two members of the Quorums of the 70’s (Bruce Carlson, Bruce Porter, and their wives) spoke to us. It was a powerful meeting. Here's a quick summary of a few of the things that touched me most in the meeting: 

-If you want to see the Lord's sense of humor, tell him your plans...:)

-Life requires sacrifice. Life requires change. Always keep your honor and your integrity. 

-Don't ask "why" questions. The "why" will come later...often at the most sublime moments of your life. (I can attest to this!!!)

-The Jerusalem Center allows us to catch a glimpse of Zion. How can I apply this when I go home, so that I can create Zion in Provo, in my home, in my life, etc.?

-The Lord WILL guide our significant decisions

-When it comes to prayer, forget the "rules" of prayer...pray sincerely, with an open heart, and speak to Heavenly Father as a child would...then listen! 

-When the answer is definite, there is a feeling of "rightness". Otherwise you will feel unsettled or hesitant. Feelings will come that are beyond me, and they will speak to my heart. Then I know it's not from me...it's from the Lord. Anyways, I LOVE attending church here at the JC...there's a special spirit here (even when there aren't general authorities visiting). I love being uplifted and inspired, surrounded by so many people I love who are striving for the same things I am. In an environment where we have the same standards and beliefs and can help each other with our goals and testimonies. It's such a blessing! 

Alex is one of Dallin and I's close friends here. I LOVE the sunsets here at the JC, 

and I love when the guys are wearing their church clothes. So I requested a picture with him. :) 

Monday, September 24th:

So this Monday we went on a field trip to Jericho. It was a little rough...we were all SO exhausted still from Turkey. But it was still really neat. My favorite part was walking along "the road to Jericho" and talking/thinking about the Good Samaritan. It was soo hot and dusty out there, in the middle of nowhere. I can't imagine how hard it would be to be stranded on the side of the road out there. Made me re-commit to never pass by someone in need. 

 My creative classmates spelling out "Jericho" with their shadows. :) 

By the way...that's the oldest wall/tower...EVER...down there. No big deal.

 Dallin playing the trumpet around the walls of Jericho :) 

Me, on the "road to Jericho"...

Friday, September 28th: 

Tonight we had a Seder dinner, hosted by our Israel teacher, Ophir. Even though it's the wrong time of the year to celebrate Passover, it was neat that we got to experience a true Seder dinner. I really do enjoy learning more about other religions here, and coming to appreciate their beliefs and practices more and more. And the food was delicious...we have wonderful cooks here at the JC! 

 Jay, Katie and Brandon, who I ate with :)

 Some other friends during the Seder dinner :)

 Part of our delicious dessert! Chocolate covered bananas 

and amazing ice cream!

Me with our wonderful Israel teacher Ophir, with his BEAUTIFUL daughter! 

It was also so neat to hear her speak Hebrew!

Saturday, September 29th: 

I LOVE Sabbath's here...today I went to the Garden Tomb with a few of my friends. It was neat to go while it was less crowded, and have some time to sit, ponder, and write in my journal about my testimony of Christ, and my appreciation for His life and His Atonement. As fun and as academic as this semester is...I often try to remind myself that the main reason I came is to have special spiritual experiences. It's a constant struggle to not get too busy to enjoy the specialness of this place and to pass up sacred opportunities to feel the Spirit. So I'm really glad I went to the Tomb today - to regain perspective and to re-prioritize my life. I love the Savior, and I'm so grateful for His role in my life.

 Standing outside the garden tomb. "He is not here, He is risen!"

My gorgeous friends and I, at the tomb. :)

Monday, October 1st:

Today was our Shephelah Field Trip. The highlights of this field trip were: acting out the Samson and Delilah story (Dallin was Samson, I was Delilah...haha), and acting out the David and Goliath story (as well as getting to practicing slinging our own stones in the exact field that David would have taken down Goliath!) I say it every time, but it's so neat to be in the same places that these Bible stories, which I have heard/read all my life, actually occurred!

 Ellen and I, in an ancient tomb.

 In the valley of Elah, slinging a stone just as David did. 

So cool! I wasn't half bad either :)

Some really neat "Bell Caves" we got to explore and sing in...so fun!

Thursday, October 4th:

Today most of us here at the JC watched the Presidential Debate! I usually don't get much into politics, but I actually really enjoyed watching it and found it very interesting. That's all I'll say about it...I don't want to get anyone riled up. :) Tonight we had a talent show here at the JC! It was our "informal" one (we'll have a formal one later in the semester) and...it was AWESOME! We had so many acts, and I loved EVERY single one. Probably because we have the most fun, most hilarious, most talented people here this semester! From story-telling, to a cheer squad, to narrating Star Wars, to our professor's family skit, to "All of Me" (by Jon Schmidt) on the piano while blindfolded, to...country swing dancing! Yep, Dallin and I danced to "Why Don't We Just Dance" by Josh Turner. We messed up a couple of times, but it was a blast and the audience loved it. :) 

 This is one of my favorite pictures :) But then again I have LOTS of favorites. 

Pretty much any picture with Dallin is my favorite though...

 I could dance with him all day, every day. I love it!

 :)

 You should have seen me the first time I tried this...ha...ha...

 So fun :) 

Possibly my favorite :) I love him so much!

Friday, October 5th:
Today we had our Palestine midterm, and with everything else going on with school this week, we were all VERY stressed. Our Old Testament teacher was kind enough to for-go our quiz for the day, and to make things even better, his sweet daughters brought us warm, homemade chocolate chip cookies! It made our day! It really is so fun having little kids here at the center, running around and making things here more exciting.

 Such a cute little girl. This is our ANE professor's daughter,

Abby...she melts my heart.

My Old Testament professor Bro. Judd and his wonderful family! 

They are the ones who made us cookies. :) Love them!

Sunday, Oct. 7th:
Today was our City of David Field Trip! My favorite part (sorry I'm not writing more details...I just HAVE to catch up!) was going through Hezekiah's Tunnel...sooo neat! Here are some pictures...enjoy!

 That's right...watching a 3D movie in Jerusalem? Check. 

Just won't mention the fact that it was about archaeology...haha

 Have I mentioned yet how in love I am? :)

 Hollie and I heading down into the tunnel! 

 This pic is classic. I love Skylor's face behind Ellen and I.

 The Pool of Siloam, where Christ told the blind man to wash his eyes (and be healed).

Still can't believe how blessed I am. To be visiting these amazing sites... 

with my eternal companion. :) Sooo happy!!!!

This weekend was conference, and I have lots to say about that :) And today (Monday) I went to the Dome of the Rock finally, so I'll make some more posts soon, but I'm going to get this long catchup one posted as soon as I upload the pics. Sorry again for taking so long! I'll try to be better! :)