Same Sky (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO)

Here is the music video for my song Same Sky, FINALLY! I had so much fun filming this video! This is my very first music video so I hope you like it! This song goes out to those who miss someone :)

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

It's the most wonderful time of the year!!! Today was the greatest day ever!! I love Christmas so much. That word is one of my favorite words too. Just the whole meaning. Last night on Christmas Eve my family and I watched It's a Wonderful Life. Oh how I love that movie! It makes me cry every time I see it! Helps me remember what's most important. Speaking of which, here's a cute little video that helps us remember what Christmas is all about :)

Also something that happened today that was so exciting was I got to talk to my dear friend in Germany on Skype! Can I just tell you how much a love Skype?! I am so grateful for the technology we have to be able to talk and SEE those we love on the other side of the world!

MERRY CHRISTMAS! I can't wait until next Christmas now! haha

Chronic Case of Love - Avaible Now

This time has FINALLY come where my EP- CHRONIC CASE OF LOVE is available online! It was released November 3, 2011. All the places where you can purchase the album are:

7digital

Amazon MP3

Apple iTunes

Deezer

Emusic

GreatIndieMusic

iHeart Radio

Last.fm

MediaNet

MySpace Music

Napster

Nokia

Rhapsody

     24-7

Spotify

Tradebit

Verizon

Zune

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Forget Me Not

Good Morning! I just wanted to share with you a talk from the General Conference at the General Relief Society Meeting that has been on my mind a lot. It's definitely one of my new favorite talks! It's what I needed to hear. Have a great day!

Forget Me Not

Dieter F. Uchtdorf
Second Counselor in the First Presidency

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It is my prayer and blessing that you will never forget that you are truly precious daughters in God’s kingdom. 

My dear sisters, what a joy it is to be with you today. I always look forward to this annual general Relief Society meeting and the excellent messages given here. Thank you, sisters. It is a precious honor for me to be assigned by President Thomas S. Monson to speak today and to add a few thoughts addressing the sisters of the Church.

A while ago I was walking through a beautiful garden with my wife and daughter. I marveled at the glory and beauty of God’s creation. And then I noticed, among all the glorious blooms, the tiniest flower. I knew the name of this flower because since I was a child I have had a tender connection to it. The flower is called forget-me-not.

I’m not exactly sure why this tiny flower has meant so much to me over the years. It does not attract immediate attention; it is easy to overlook among larger and more vibrant flowers; yet it is just as beautiful, with its rich color that mirrors that of the bluest skies—perhaps this is one reason why I like it so much.

And there is the haunting plea of its name. There is a German legend that just as God had finished naming all the plants, one was left unnamed. A tiny voice spoke out, “Forget me not, O Lord!” And God replied that this would be its name.

Tonight I would like to use this little flower as a metaphor. The five petals of the little forget-me-not flower prompt me to consider five things we would be wise never to forget.

First, forget not to be patient with yourself.

I want to tell you something that I hope you will take in the right way: God is fully aware that you and I are not perfect.

Let me add: God is also fully aware that the people you think are perfect are not.

And yet we spend so much time and energy comparing ourselves to others—usually comparing our weaknesses to their strengths. This drives us to create expectations for ourselves that are impossible to meet. As a result, we never celebrate our good efforts because they seem to be less than what someone else does.

Everyone has strengths and weaknesses.

It’s wonderful that you have strengths.

And it is part of your mortal experience that you do have weaknesses.

God wants to help us to eventually turn all of our weaknesses into strengths,¹ but He knows that this is a long-term goal. He wants us to become perfect,² and if we stay on the path of discipleship, one day we will. It’s OK that you’re not quite there yet. Keep working on it, but stop punishing yourself.

Dear sisters, many of you are endlessly compassionate and patient with the weaknesses of others. Please remember also to be compassionate and patient with yourself.

In the meantime, be thankful for all the small successes in your home, your family relationships, your education and livelihood, your Church participation and personal improvement. Like the forget-me-nots, these successes may seem tiny to you and they may go unnoticed by others, but God notices them and they are not small to Him. If you consider success to be only the most perfect rose or dazzling orchid, you may miss some of life’s sweetest experiences.

For example, insisting that you have a picture-perfect family home evening each week—even though doing so makes you and everyone around you miserable—may not be the best choice. Instead, ask yourself, “What could we do as a family that would be enjoyable and spiritual and bring us closer together?” That family home evening—though it may be modest in scope and execution—may have far more positive long-term results.

Our journey toward perfection is long, but we can find wonder and delight in even the tiniest steps in that journey.

Second, forget not the difference between a good sacrifice and a foolish sacrifice.

An acceptable sacrifice is when we give up something good for something of far greater worth.

Giving up a little sleep to help a child who is having a nightmare is a good sacrifice. We all know this. Staying up all night, jeopardizing our own health, to make the perfect accessory for a daughter’s Sunday outfit may not be such a good sacrifice.

Dedicating some of our time to studying the scriptures or preparing to teach a lesson is a good sacrifice. Spending many hours stitching the title of the lesson into homemade pot holders for each member of your class perhaps may not be.

Every person and situation is different, and a good sacrifice in one instance might be a foolish sacrifice in another.

How can we tell the difference for our own situation? We can ask ourselves, “Am I committing my time and energies to the things that matter most?” There are so many good things to do, but we can’t do all of them. Our Heavenly Father is most pleased when we sacrifice something good for something far greater with an eternal perspective. Sometimes, that may even mean nurturing small but beautiful forget-me-not flowers instead of a large garden of exotic blooms.

Third, forget not to be happy now.

In the beloved children’s story Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, the mysterious candy maker Willy Wonka hides a golden ticket in five of his candy bars and announces that whoever finds one of the tickets wins a tour of his factory and a lifetime supply of chocolate.

Written on each golden ticket is this message: “Greetings to you, the lucky finder of this Golden Ticket … ! Tremendous things are in store for you! Many wonderful surprises await you! … Mystic and marvelous surprises … will … delight, … astonish, and perplex you.”³

In this classic children’s story, people all over the world desperately yearn to find a golden ticket. Some feel that their entire future happiness depends on whether or not a golden ticket falls into their hands. In their anxiousness, people begin to forget the simple joy they used to find in a candy bar. The candy bar itself becomes an utter disappointment if it does not contain a golden ticket.

So many people today are waiting for their own golden ticket—the ticket that they believe holds the key to the happiness they have always dreamed about. For some, the golden ticket may be a perfect marriage; for others, a magazine-cover home or perhaps freedom from stress or worry.

There is nothing wrong with righteous yearnings—we hope and seek after things that are “virtuous, lovely, or of good report or praiseworthy.”⁴ The problem comes when we put our happiness on hold as we wait for some future event—our golden ticket—to appear.

One woman wanted more than anything else to marry a righteous priesthood holder in the temple and be a mother and a wife. She had dreamed about this all her life, and oh, what a wonderful mother and loving wife she would be. Her home would be filled with loving-kindness. Never a bitter word would be spoken. The food would never burn. And her children, instead of hanging out with their friends, would prefer to spend their evenings and weekends with Mom and Dad.

This was her golden ticket. It was the one thing upon which she felt her whole existence depended. It was the one thing in all the world for which she most desperately yearned.

But it never happened. And, as the years went on, she became more and more withdrawn, bitter, and even angry. She could not understand why God would not grant her this righteous desire.

She worked as an elementary school teacher, and being around children all day long simply reminded her that her golden ticket had never appeared. As the years passed she became more disappointed and withdrawn. People didn’t like being around her and avoided her whenever they could. She even took her frustration out on the children at school. She found herself losing her temper, and she swung between fits of anger and desperate loneliness.

The tragedy of this story is that this dear woman, in all her disappointment about her golden ticket, failed to notice the blessings she did have. She did not have children in her home, but she was surrounded by them in her classroom. She was not blessed with a family, but the Lord had given her an opportunity few people have—the chance to influence for good the lives of hundreds of children and families as a teacher.

The lesson here is that if we spend our days waiting for fabulous roses, we could miss the beauty and wonder of the tiny forget-me-nots that are all around us.

This is not to say that we should abandon hope or temper our goals. Never stop striving for the best that is within you. Never stop hoping for all of the righteous desires of your heart. But don’t close your eyes and hearts to the simple and elegant beauties of each day’s ordinary moments that make up a rich, well-lived life.

The happiest people I know are not those who find their golden ticket; they are those who, while in pursuit of worthy goals, discover and treasure the beauty and sweetness of the everyday moments. They are the ones who, thread by daily thread, weave a tapestry of gratitude and wonder throughout their lives. These are they who are truly happy.

Fourth, forget not the “why” of the gospel.

Sometimes, in the routine of our lives, we unintentionally overlook a vital aspect of the gospel of Jesus Christ, much as one might overlook a beautiful, delicate forget-me-not. In our diligent efforts to fulfill all of the duties and obligations we take on as members of the Church, we sometimes see the gospel as a long list of tasks that we must add to our already impossibly long to-do list, as a block of time that we must somehow fit into our busy schedules. We focus on what the Lord wants us to do and how we might do it, but we sometimes forget why.

My dear sisters, the gospel of Jesus Christ is not an obligation; it is a pathway, marked by our loving Father in Heaven, leading to happiness and peace in this life and glory and inexpressible fulfillment in the life to come. The gospel is a light that penetrates mortality and illuminates the way before us.

While understanding the “what” and the “how” of the gospel is necessary, the eternal fire and majesty of the gospel springs from the “why.” When we understand why our Heavenly Father has given us this pattern for living, when we remember why we committed to making it a foundational part of our lives, the gospel ceases to become a burden and, instead, becomes a joy and a delight. It becomes precious and sweet.

Let us not walk the path of discipleship with our eyes on the ground, thinking only of the tasks and obligations before us. Let us not walk unaware of the beauty of the glorious earthly and spiritual landscapes that surround us.

My dear sisters, seek out the majesty, the beauty, and the exhilarating joy of the “why” of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

The “what” and “how” of obedience mark the way and keep us on the right path. The “why” of obedience sanctifies our actions, transforming the mundane into the majestic. It magnifies our small acts of obedience into holy acts of consecration.

Fifth, forget not that the Lord loves you.

As a child, when I would look at the little forget-me-nots, I sometimes felt a little like that flower—small and insignificant. I wondered if I would be forgotten by my family or by my Heavenly Father.

Years later I can look back on that young boy with tenderness and compassion. And I do know now—I was never forgotten.

And I know something else: as an Apostle of our Master, Jesus Christ, I proclaim with all the certainty and conviction of my heart—neither are you!

You are not forgotten.

Sisters, wherever you are, whatever your circumstances may be, you are not forgotten. No matter how dark your days may seem, no matter how insignificant you may feel, no matter how overshadowed you think you may be, your Heavenly Father has not forgotten you. In fact, He loves you with an infinite love.

Just think of it: You are known and remembered by the most majestic, powerful, and glorious Being in the universe! You are loved by the King of infinite space and everlasting time!

He who created and knows the stars knows you and your name—you are the daughters of His kingdom. The Psalmist wrote:

“When I consider thy heavens, the work of thy fingers, the moon and the stars, which thou hast ordained;

“What is man, that thou art mindful of him? …

“For thou hast made him a little lower than the angels, and hast crowned him with glory and honour.”⁵

God loves you because you are His child. He loves you even though at times you may feel lonely or make mistakes.

The love of God and the power of the restored gospel are redemptive and saving. If you will only allow His divine love into your life, it can dress any wound, heal any hurt, and soften any sorrow.

My dear Relief Society sisters, you are closer to heaven than you suppose. You are destined for more than you can possibly imagine. Continue to increase in faith and personal righteousness. Accept the restored gospel of Jesus Christ as your way of life. Cherish the gift of activity in this great and true Church. Treasure the gift of service in the blessed organization of Relief Society. Continue to strengthen homes and families. Continue to seek out and help others who need your and the Lord’s help.

Sisters, there is something inspiring and sublime about the little forget-me-not flower. I hope it will be a symbol of the little things that make your lives joyful and sweet. Please never forget that you must be patient and compassionate with yourselves, that some sacrifices are better than others, that you need not wait for a golden ticket to be happy. Please never forget that the “why” of the gospel of Jesus Christ will inspire and uplift you. And never forget that your Heavenly Father knows, loves, and cherishes you.

Thank you for who you are. Thank you for the countless acts of love and service you offer up to so many. Thank you for all that you will yet do to bring the joy of the gospel of Jesus Christ to families, to the Church, to your communities, and to the nations of the world.

Sisters, we love you. It is my prayer and blessing that you will never forget that you are truly precious daughters in God’s kingdom, in the sacred name of our beloved Savior, Jesus Christ, amen.

CHRONIC CASE OF LOVE

My EP CHRONIC CASE OF LOVE will be released on NOVEMBER 3, 2011. I am so excited I think I just may pop! I have been waiting for this for sooooo long! The EP will consist of six original songs and will be available on iTunes. On November 3 I will be having a CD Release show/birthday party because that day is also my birthday! I will be 20 years old! The release show will be at the Grove Theatre. I still can't believe that I am finally really coming out with my first album! This is all so exciting and I am so very grateful for my family and friends who have been so supportive and kind! love love love.

A Little Bit About Me!

Greetings!!! Natalie Here! I thought I would take a moment and introduce myself. I am 19 years old and live in Pleasant Grove, Utah. Born and raised in Utah so it's home sweet home! I am the youngest of four kids. My Parents are Steve and Becky and my siblings are Kristen, David, and Danny. I love my family so much and think the world of them. We are all very close and I am so grateful for the friendships I have with each of them. I am a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and the gospel means everything to me. I am a Cosmetologist and Master Esthetician. I love working in the beauty industry and I think it would be awesome to one day open my own salon/day spa. I especially love esthetics and holistic remedies. I love love love essential oils. I love them because they have so much history behind them! They have been around since the beginning of time! Essential oils were used by ancient civilizations and are mentioned in the bible! They are just so pure and the earths gifts to us! I am fascinated with Ancient stuff. So I am a big fan of Egyptian history. I am a singer/songwriter and am in the process of making my very first album!!!!!! I am super stoked! It is an EP and will have 6 songs on it. It's set to release Fall 2011 and I will actually be posting the release date and album title very soon! I grew up in a musical family. My mom is a vocal coach and actually taught the country group "SheDaisy" when they were little. When I was little I was in local plays, talent shows, and beauty pageants. I grew up with music. But then there came a time in my life when I became lost and put music aside. I stopped singing for many years until when I was sixteen years old I started reaching out to music and was touched by the effect music had on me. One day I decided to go into my moms music room and sing, something I had not done is a very long time. I sung "Breath of Heaven" by Amy Grant. I remember when I sang that song something inside of me changed. The music seemed to change me, whether it was the melody, or the message of the song, I remembered how much I loved to sing and the music made me happy. Music brought me hope. It was then that I realized that I wanted to help people regain hope with music the way that music had done for me. To be able to help someone with my music, would be one of the greatest things I could ever ask for. So I got back into music and started songwriting and performing again. I worked hard. I knew what I wanted to do and I wasn't going to let anything get in the way. For some reason, once I had made the decision to get back into music, it seemed like nothing would work out! I can't even tell you how many times I got rejected. People would tell me that I couldn't do it, said I was too young, or that it wasn't practical. Opportunities arose that seemed hopeful but then somehow every time never worked out. Discouragement was my worst enemy. It was hard work and I had my heart broken time after time but in the back of my head I would always remember why I got back into music, it wasn't for me, it was for others to help people who needed help the way I did. With that in mind I never gave up. Now finally I am coming out with my very first album!! I have worked so hard to make it. But it feels so wonderful to be accomplishing goals that you worked hard for rather than something that was just handed to you. Makes you appreciate it that much more :) I hope to someday make a full length album too :) Anyways! Some more things I enjoy are guitar, piano, roller skating, long boarding, camping, hiking, trying new things, watching movies, playing games, hanging out with friends and family and going on adventures! I love animals and one of my best friends is my dog. Her name is Gigi :) I got her when I was 12 years old and she is a little miracle doggie! She has nine lives I swear, but I'm so glad cause I need that little pooch. Well, that's it for now! Until next time!

 My Family Fall 2010

Meet Gigi!

Meet Mazy Motto!



Singing at AFHS CaveStock





General Conference

This weekend was General Conference. I always look forward to April and October of each year for General Conference weekend. It is always so wonderful to listen to the Prophet and the apostles. The gospel means everything to me. I know that The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints is the true church of God. I know my Savior Lives. My heart swells every time I say that. I know it because I feel it and it's something I cannot deny. I know with out a doubt that the Book of Mormon is the word of God. I've read every page of that book and have found out for myself. I've prayed to my Heavenly Father and asked him and received my answer. I made it a goal for myself when I was 16 years old to at least read one verse from the Book of Mormon everyday. I can literally feel the difference in my day between days that I read and days that I do not. Daily scripture study and prayer really is like putting on the armor of God to protect us from the adversary. I absolutely love the Book of Mormon, it brings me so much joy. I also know that God hears and answers our prayers. I know that he knows us individually and loves us so much. He wants the best for us. He is always there for us and is reaching his hand toward us. I know that Joseph Smith was a true Prophet of God and that he saw the Father and his Son Jesus Christ and restored the gospel. I am so grateful for him and his example. I know that we have a living prophet today, President Thomas S. Monson. I am so grateful for the opportunity I had this weekend to hear the words of the Prophet and his apostles. My heart is so full and I feel so much peace. This gospel is peace. I know in my life everything may change around me, but one thing that will ALWAYS stay constant is my Savior. I know in my life I can't find any joy anywhere like I can with the peace of the gospel. I know it's true.


Here is a recording I did of one of my favorite hymns "Be Still, My Soul."

Please visit www.lds.org for more information about The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun

Tonight was Girls Night Out while the boys went to priesthood session. My mom, sister and I went and feasted at the very delicious restaurant Carrabbas. I would highly recommend devouring the Chicken Sicilian soup and the Chicken Marsala.... mmmh mmmh mmmh :) When we returned home me and my sister Kristen started jammin and spontaneously made a video. We decided not to edit it and just leave it as is. This is what really happens when making a video haha. Good times good times. :) Hope you enjoy!

Best Weekends of the Year

It's General Conference weekend! :) These weekends of General Conference are the best weekends of the year. The gospel of The Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints means everything to me. I invite you to join us and listen to the messages. You can visit www.lds.org for a live stream. Have a wonderful weekend! :)

Jump Start with Zumba

Good Morning!

Blog post #2 here we go. Today is Friday and that means it is ZUMBA FRIDAY! I go to the gym with my mom and my sister and we quite enjoy it. Zumba is a Latin dance aerobic work out. And a mighty good workout too! The different songs make you feel like you're a tribal dancer from ancient days that has time traveled, or that you live in the 1920's making the charleston the hottest thing out there, or that you're a hard core wanna-be hip hip dancer shaking your booty like no one else haha. What ever the case in zumba you've just got to laugh and have a good time. It makes exercise so much fun!

Enough to "Break the Ice."