New Beginnings

I have reached a point in my life where I look and the mirror, see what I am, understand what I want to be, and strive to make decisions to better myself. I am now 16 years old. I can date, drive, get a job, and I'm starting to make education choices. (Where do I want to go to college? etc.)

I have decided to place a special priority on my dance, harp, piano, and writing abilities. I have recognized my strengths and passions and decided on what I hope to be my future.

Recently I have been made aware of our family moving. We will be remaining in Vegas and living with my grandparents for the time being. I am both excited and reluctant to take that step forward to change. Just when life seemed to be deciding its fate for at least the next year, God stepped in and gave me a new challenge. I will of course accept it, with possibly a tear or two, but nevertheless take on the challenge and show I have no fear for the possibilities and distant opportunities to be brought about.

Often, through difficult times, I cut my hair. This may seem somewhat odd but it is true. It isn't necessarily an unconscience action because I'm well aware that I am doing it, but it has become an interesting habit. The first time was at the closing of the Academy of Ballet; the second, the weekend after my first date; and now the third, moving into a new home. (A picture will be included at the end of this post.)

I have realized an important part of life is my religion. Apologies to non-religious people reading my blog. Through hard times and trials I find myself praying more often, reading my scriptures, and acting on service. Not that I don't usually enjoy these daily activities.. (insert a small grin and possible chuckle) ..but I have been more experiencing stronger desires to participate in these personal events.

I'd like to thank my family and friends for sticking close to me and helping me through challenging times. I'd like to thank the open ears and careful advice given to me when I needed it most. I would also like to apologize for any advice I turned away, not seeing its importance and obvious truth.

Until my next post.. Love to all. Please let me know you are following my blog so that I will have more incentive to write. Thank You.

Alina Lauren Cooper

(The Picture as promised!)

Journalism Difficulty

My mind has proved to have difficulty understanding the importance of "keeping up" in my journalism obligations. I have now failed to give a single post for over a year and I am unbelievably disappointed in myself. Although.. I suppose with this beginning of a new school year, I should be able to try some new things and push myself in different ways.

Hard to believe I'm 16 going on 17.. (Bring to mind Sound of Music?) Within another year and a half I'll be 18 and thinking about college. (Hopefully I'm thinking about that now :P) I'm now a junior in high school and dancing, playing the harp and piano, and attempting to learn the guitar.. soon.

My parents are amazing and I don't know what I'd do without them. My brother, Izaak, is an awesome soccer player and Marcus is joining him in rugby. They both also keep up with their video gaming skills VERY well (;

I've learned throughout the past year that change is good. Whether we welcome the change or not, God has reason for each experience and we'll either learn from our mistakes or benefit from our blessings. I'm grateful for my trials because I know they have only made me a stronger person.

I'm also very thankful for the friendships I've gained this year. Some of the most important including Emily Srok, Melissa Rubel, and Dylan Cross. Making it through this year without them would have been unbearably difficult. I'm also thankful for the great relationship I've formed with my mother. We are now closer than ever. I've also grown very close to my dad and my brothers and I know that will only be a blessing to me in the future.

I believe I should also challenge myself to make writing on my blog a habit. At least once a week shall we say? Possibly update my family's blog also, to keep everyone up to date (: .. the work shall be carried out.

Until next time!

Alina Lauren Cooper