:: America Day 2009 ::

Before my return back to the beautiful US of A to celebrate the 4th (my favorite holiday!) my Canadian friends wanted to wish me a "Happy America Day." And a very happy America Day it was! I started the morning out in Huntington Beach with a bunch of friends for their Annual Main Street Parade. The patriotic crowds were out in full force.





After the parade it was back down south to my parent's house for a little pool party with the cousins from Vegas. What could be better than a hot dog and a dip in the pool on a hot summer day!



After the pool party it was off to join the rest of the Messick crew at Grandma & Grandpa's beach house on Beach Road. This was my nephew Dallen's first time to enjoy this fun family tradition. And he loved it! From the beautiful beach weather to the deliciously sticky s'mores, incredible firework show, and a late night game of poker with the little cousins, it was the best 4th of July ever! Hope yours was fun too!!!

:: My Return To The Field ::

It's true what the scriptures say, "As ye sew, so shall ye reap." Last week I was given the opportunity to enjoy some of the wonderful blessings of seeds sewn in years past. I just returned home from an incredible week in Canada visiting my old mission with my first mission companion Erin, her darling son Eli, and her Mum. In case you missed the reason for the trip, read my last post "Oh C-A-N-A-D-A!" for a little refresher. It was a wonderful week full of exciting adventures and enjoying the fruits of my labors. Feel free to join me as a I take a walk down memory lane.


SATURDAY: Saturday morning after a long flight we were up early and off to the Regina Saskatchewan Temple for Stacy's Endowment session. I have so many wonderful memories in this beautiful edifice. The session inside was indescribable and a tender mercy from the Lord. It was an occasion I will not soon forget.

After our spiritual feast we headed down to one of our favorite local spots, East Side Mario's for another kind of feasting. The rest of the evening consisted of some sightseeing, lots of visiting with old and new friends , and a potluck with the Young Single Adults in the city. It was the perfect day!


SUNDAY: Sunday morning Stacy asked if I'd do her hair and makeup for Church. Of course! We did some loose curls and a sexy red lip. What a knock-out! After Church was over we all decided to head to Wascana lake and enjoy the beautiful day. We took a ton of pictures in front of Parliament, walked around the lake, and even fed the Canadian geese.

After a gorgeous afternoon we went back to Stacy's and enjoyed some Root Beer floats and cozied up while we watched On The Lord's Errand, a fantastic movie about the Prophet Thomas S. Monson. I am in awe of the man and the way he allowed the Lord to shape his life. This 60 minute dvd is a must see.


MONDAY: With the weekend over it was time to leave Regina for a little while and head to Winnipeg for some more sightseeing and to visit old friends. The day consisted mostly of driving the flat plains of Saskatchewan and Manitoba for 6 hours, a quick stop in Brandon, a visit to an old investigator in Erin's first area in Portage, and who can forget the stop at Goodies for some delicious pastries and treats.


TUESDAY: For our last day in Winnipeg we decided to pack in all the sightseeing we could! After meeting with an old investigator downtown, we visited The Fork's, the part of town where the Red River and Assiniboine River meet, then toured the museum, stopped by our old apartment, then visited St. Boniface, the french quarter of Winnipeg where some of the most fantastic wall murals and old cathedrals are. Before heading back to Regina we stopped at Assiniboine Park and grabbed ourselves some Slurpees for the long road back. Afterall, Winnipeg is the Slurpee capital of the world. Bet you didn't know that!

After the long 6 hour drive back to Saskatchewan we stopped for some dinner at Regina's first mexican food restaurant (still bitter there wasn't one when I was serving there). The food really wasn't very good, but it was a nice break from the greasy food found all over town. We tried to see a movie afterwards, but everything was sold out so we settled on some Blizzards from DQ and a thunder and lighting storm. I forgot how incredibly beautiful prairie lighting storms can be.


WEDNESDAY: I decided to extend my trip until Thursday because Wednesday, July 1st was CANADA DAY!!! We all celebrated the birth of the country with a matinee movie and some partying in the park. We met up with some old friends from the YSA ward we knew while serving in Regina and just enjoyed the music, hot dogs, and mini-donuts. We opted not to stay up for the fireworks show at 10:30 (the sun doesn't go down til then in the summer!) since I had to have Erin and her Mum to the airport by 3:30am. Yuck! But I DID listen to the fireworks as I fell asleep that night. I'm sure they were beautiful.

And now, after all is said and done and I've returned home to my family and friends, I can't help but feel blessed for all the many blessings that have come into my life for serving a mission. I am a strong believer that the service a missionary renders on their mission will stand to bless them throughout the years and many generations over.

THE BACHELORETTE: Hometown Dates

Sorry I'm late!!! I just returned this evening from a wonderful stay in Canada and now I'm ready to blog about my favorite two hours on television! Would you believe that Monday night in Winnipeg, Canada I actually opted to retire to the hotel early JUST so I could watch this dumb show? I know, pretty silly, eh? (Just a little Canadian lingo for ya there.) And it was oh so worth it! Now, I knew it would be several days until I would have access to a computer so I jotted down some notes while watching, just to make sure I didn't leave out the "good stuff."

Let's break it down, shall we:

REID (Philadelphia, PA): His family seemed 99.9% normal. Jillian seemed comfortable and Reid really seemed into her. I was a little concerned that he continuously asked "What do you guys think?" It's one thing to seek approval from your family, but it's another to seek their advice on whether she's the one or not. I hope he takes some time to figure out whether he and Jill are a match. Oh, and did you happen to notice when they kissed that she is always the one to stop first? Does that mean something to any of you? Let's take notice next week and see if this suspicious behavior continues.

MICHAEL (Valencia, CA): Identical twins my butt!!! Those two looked nothing alike. And why is Jill always complaining about this stupid age thing? Hello! Demi Moore and Ashton Kutcher, Halle Barry and Gabriel Aubry, Mariah Carey and Nick Cannon. I mean seriously Jill, if you're gonna complain about something, make sure it's something worthwhile, like his horrible last name. Stagliano? Yikes. I guess it doesn't matter anymore though, does it. It was fun having you on the show Michael. If you're ever back in California again, my roommates think you're hot. Just thought you should know.

KIPTYN (Encinitas, CA): Did anyone else notice how Jillian suddenly tried to be this hip southern California surfer girl when she walked up to Kiptyn's house? If I recall correctly I believe her exact words were "I can't believe this is where you live, dude." Oh my poor Jillian. Maybe you should've stayed in Canada, eh? And how about Kitpyn's parents? Now that's a yikes! I knew I switched over to Team Reid for a reason. I don't know if anyone could handle a mother-in-law like that. No offense Kiptyn. Oh, and let's hope their on-screen kissing improves before the fantasy suite card is dealt. I'm not sure I can handle much more of that.

JESSE (Carmel Valley, CA): No thanks. I never really was a fan of Jesse, and then ABC went and made him that much more worse for me by introducing us to his family. Did anyone else think Jesse's brother Jake looked like Jesse 10 years from now? Scary!!! And what kind of brother talks crap on their own flesh and blood like? Poor guy's just a lonely, bitter, and jealous man. I think I might have tried to feel a little sorry for him, had he not acted like a total jerk on national television. Sorry Jesse, best of luck to ya. Say "Hi" to my friend Michael for me. I hear you're still crashing on his couch in LA. Bummer.

WES (Austin, TX): I have an entire page of HATE notes from this hometown date. Let's see what I jotted down: "What an a-hole! He is the devil in disguise!" "Jillian, you are an absolute idiot!" "Earth to Jillian! He's LYING to you!!!" And there's more, but I'll spare you the details. I think Jake definitely did the right thing by coming to talk to her about the creepster. I still can't believe that she would trust slimy Wes over sweetheart Jake. If she chooses Wes she deserves every last bit of what's coming to her. I hope she gets to see "the real Wes" during her one-on-one time with him in Spain next week.

ED (Chicago, IL): He's baaaack! We all predicted it. Part of me wonders if it was all a paid stunt for ratings and part of me wants to believe that he actually had genuine feelings for her and decided to return to win back the heart of Jillian. Whatever the reason, I'm glad he's back!

Start getting excited for next week when Jillian and the remaining four bachelors: Reid, Kiptyn, Ed, and A-hole...I mean Wes, travel to Spain for some romantic overnight dates. Uh-oh! My dad and I had a little talk about this one on our way home from the LAX airport tonight. Let's hope they keep in PG rated please. Stay tuned.

{ OH! C-A-N-A-D-A }

Today I board a plane to Canada! I'm going to be meeting up with my old companion and trainer from the mission field and together we'll be taking one of the girls we taught and baptized through the Regina Temple to receive her endowment. I couldn't be more excited!!! The chain of events that led me to this point are truly miraculous and I have no doubt that this is where the Lord wants me to be this weekend. It's kind of a long story, but I promise it is so worth it...

I've known that Stacey, the member we helped bring into the church, was planning on going through the temple this summer, but I wasn't sure I would be able to leave my work and other responsibilities behind. Really what it came down to is that it wasn't very high on my list of priorities. Shame on me. Well, this weekend at Stake Conference was the first of many very strong spiritual impressions I received that called me to repentance and urged me to go to Canada this weekend.

Our San Clemente Stake President, President Reese, was at the pulpit and reminded the members of the mission he had for our stake. He proceeded to tell us that we needed to be more faithful in helping our brothers and sisters to receive the next ordinance in the church and how it was our responsibility and duty as members of the church. Wow! It hit me like a ton of bricks. I knew I needed to help Stacey receive the next ordinance, but also was very realistic in my realization that I had not the time, nor means to get to Canada by the weekend.

I went home that night and could NOT fall asleep. I tried to blame it on the excessive amount of Diet Cokes I consumed earlier in the day. But no, that wasn't it. I was absolutely restless thinking about how I was going to get to Canada. I began checking flights and resolved that I was going to spend the money, however much, and just go. Where the money would come from, I didn't know. But I knew I needed to be in the Regina Temple on Saturday with Stacey.

Monday morning I woke up and forgot all about the restless events of the night before and opened my laptop, got on the phone, and started doing a little business form home. Shortly after I began working a call came from my boss saying that he'd like to drop off a few checks for me at the shop and was hoping I could come in and pick them up. He said that one was for our photographer, and the other was my bonus check for a job well done on our last event.

I hurried down to the shop and when I opened my check, I was shocked. I thought to myself "Sweet! Shopping spree!!!" Shame on me. But just then, it hit me AGAIN! A voice inside my head said "Aubrey, why don't you use the money to buy a plane ticket to Canada? You know you need to be in the temple this weekend." I must admit, the natural man inside me hesitated and took some time to think about the many great things I could do with the money. I resolved that I would give myself some more time to think it over (afterall, this was going to be a huge sacrifice). I decided I would go to Family Home Evening where I could be close to the Spirit one more time before making my decision.

Well, wouldn't ya know. The lesson was on the blessings of the temple. Another brick thrown at my face! I had chills run up my spine and I knew that again, the Lord had witnessed to me what I was to do with the money. I came home, watched The Bachelorette (of course!), and then bought myself a round trip ticket from LAX to Regina, Saskatchewan.

So there you have it. I'm off to spend a week in Canada with Stacey and the people I loved and served for 18 months of my life. I can't wait! Oh, and here's a little gem I found of Sister Cox, Stacey, and me from way back when. Brings back memories. It's going to be amazing to be back in Canada together. See you when I get back!

water changes everything.

Last week my friend Brock invited me to Billabong's 3rd Annual "Design For Humanity" Event to benefit charity: water, a nonprofit organization that helps provide clean and safe drinking water to people in developing nations.

The one-night fashion, music, and art event went down at the Avalon/Bardot on Hollywood and Vine. The annual event began as a way for Billabong to give back to a non-profit close to its heart, but now offers a chance for retailers, athletes, celebrities, artists and the general public to give back as well.

The evening began with an art show and auction in the Bardot club, followed by a bikini fashion show, and finished up with a performance from two bands: Iglu & Hartley and The Airborne Toxic Event. Thanks again Brock for the invite. I had a blast!

{ Happy Birthday Paula! }

Saturday night after Stake Conference, the Paula Fan Club gathered to celebrate the birth of this fabulously hot mamma, Miss Paula Peralta. How can one not love a girl with a face like that? Impossible.

The masses congregated at our house for a little cake, ice cream, and even some cherry Jell-O jigglers. I don't know if you've heard, but Jell-O's making a huge comeback this season.

Happy 28th Birthday Paula! This post is dedicated to you: the woman whose voice sings sunshine into my heart and whose glee brings merriment and malicious satisfaction to my soul.

THE BACHELORETTE: Crazy Train!

Monday night we had the girls over for another ridiculously fabulous episode of The Bachelorette to watch Jillian and her eight remaining bachelors board a train from Whistler, British Columbia to Banff, Alberta.

I wanna start off by talking about the guys that were sent home. Poor Robby. All alone in the Canadian wilderness. And I thought the city bus dismissal was bad! This show is beyond cruel. However, I actually think I'd be more prone to laugh than cry if it were me watching the other guys wave goodbye from the window.

I'm sure you'll all agree that Tanner totally signed his own death sentence when he unzipped those pants. I still can't get the visual of his crotch out of my head. What was he thinking? The best part was Jill's commentary. "Although it was huge, I didn't need to see it..." You took the words right out of my mouth Jill!

And poor Jake. I'm sorry you were sent home. But truly, it's not you, it's just that you and Jill aren't a match. But...if you're into set-ups, my roommate Katie's available and she thinks you're HOT!!!

And now for a little breakdown on the guys who will be taking Jillian to meet the parents on some hometown dates...

MICHAEL (Astoria, NY): The girls and I were glad to see Michael stay. There is just something about him that is so charming. His sense of humor is to die for, and I think the hometown would not be as fun without him. Although...I did question Jill's motive. Jill, are you sure you didn't just want to do a little NYC shopping while you're there? Either way, I'm glad Michael stayed.

WES (Austin, TX): There are no words vile enough to describe this filthy excuse for a human being. He's the one that deserved to be left by the side of the train! Did you hear the things that came out of his mouth last night? Allow me to remind you: "I'll always have Jill wrapped around my little finger, ya'll. Believe it." And how can we forgot this gem: "I got my publicity, and now if I want I can stay and try to get the girl." What a scum bucket. Jill, you are truly retarded if you can't see through all of his B.S. Good luck to you and your messy divorce if you choose him. All I can say is "Don't mess with Texas!"

JESSE (Carmel Valley, CA):I'm sorry if you're a Jesse fan, but I'm not. Booooring. Just not my kind of cute either. Anyway, you might find it interesting to know that he's been living on my friend's couch in LA for the last little while. Speculate all your want about that. I'll have my people do a little more investigating.

KIPTYN (Encinitas, CA): Jillian is definitely still diggin' on Kip. And who wouldn't? He may be the world's most awkward on-camera kisser, but dang is he HOT! I seriously hope he makes it all the way to the final two.

REID (Philadelphia, PA): I was a little nervous when the other guys on the train were describing Reid as being weird and neurotic. I happen to think he's funny, charming, and maybe a little quirky. I think they're all just jealous of the connection he has with Jill. And to be honest, whenever I see Reid my ears turn red. Isn't that weird? It's probably just high blood pressure. Oh, and Reid, when in doubt...ALWAYS wear those glasses. So hot!