19 November 2023
VOLUME 11 – NUMBER 530
Ward cultural activity
On Saturday, we had our ward cultural night. A lot of people from the ward came together, and set up tables with food and items from their hispanic cultures.
We as a family got to set up the United States of America, and for that we had a flag, and some pies. It wasn't much, but those pies were quite popular. The rest of the tables were just amazing. There wasn't a table that didn't have delicious food.
Towards the end, there was a show where people would share something like a song, or a dance from their culture. For our booth, we sang "You are my Sunshine." It was a good night, and I had an absolute blast.
Ward cultural activity
Another half marathon under my belt! This was number five for me, and it was easily my best race yet. I feel like I was the most in shape and trained well for it, which was a nice change to not feel completely wrecked by it.
I decided that it would be fun to invite some of the adult siblings to come down to St. George with me, which ended up being way better than just going down by myself.
We mostly just chilled at the Airbnb after my race, but I always love playing games and spending time just having fun together.
London after half marathon in St. George
Endia and I went to a birthing class this week. The class covered everything about the birthing process, and what we can do prepare. I mainly was just surprised about how amazing women are. Having children is extremely selfless and requires a great sacrifice. It's not Mother's Day, but all the mom's out there deserve lots of love and appreciation. Thanks for being awesome!
All these classes and doctors appointments are starting to make it feel real that we are going to become parents next month! It is really amazing how quickly things can change. Next thing you know, the days you used to talk about being far into the future are here. I'm learning to appreciate the present.
Cougar and Itzel swimming in St. George
Pretty regular week this week, and the main thing going on at work now is gearing up for all of the holiday activities.
As part of my role that I started in June, I am responsible for planning events for our department, so I was assigned to be the co-chair of the Christmas devotional coming up next month. I feel I am gaining valuable experience that will be helpful for the rest of my life!
Joanna’s birthday celebration
This week I went with Dad down to BYU in Provo so I could drive back and get a few hours. I did homework in his class while he taught. Then on the way home, I drove on a side road by the interstate, because I am not ready to drive on super fast roads yet. But I did drive on Bangerter and I did well.
We also celebrated Joanna's birthday on Thursday. On Friday night, I went to Dancing with the Stars with Carson, Bri, and Riley. After it was over we went to Nelson's and got custards.
Zuniga-Orozco family visit
Saturday afternoon we had a visit with my biological family and they came to the house. We were going to the park but it was going to rain. I reunited with my cousin Ulises. We used to be really tight, but then he moved to Mexico and recently returned. Me and my mom were also able to catch up. She had a lot of stuff happen to her.
After the visit was over, I made a strawberry pie for the ward “Noche de Hispanidad.”
Dad with Christian Larsen and friends
On the 19th I gave another talk, but this time in the 2nd ward. It was so good for me. On my mission I loved giving talks. I loved organizing resources like scriptures, experiences, and testimonies to help people to feel, learn, and do something. I love being an instrument for Heavenly Father, I feel so much purpose and satisfaction.
So with all the hardness I've been dealing with, and the dark places I feel like I've been in for the past weeks, giving a talk and serving really let some light pour into my life.
Quinn dancing at ward cultural activity
This week I had play practice from Monday thru Friday, from about 2 PM to 6 PM. I had a lot of fun doing rehearsals, and I think it's coming along pretty well, although I do think it could be a little more smoother, and it definitely needs some practice before we actually perform.
We rehearse at the theater now in full costumes and with mics, and it is really fun. I really enjoy performing, and I can't wait til the actual performance.
Taking the bus home is pretty fun. On the train, I usually just watched a show, or did school, and then once I get to the Murray station, I just take the bus to 6200 South and Wakefield Way. Then just walk home. Its actually really fun.
Caleb snuggling with Misha, Max, Mable
Ellie latest obsession lately is playing with kinetic sand. She will play for it for hours without taking a break.
One day, Braden and Ellie were at the table quietly playing with the sand. After awhile, I asked how it was going and Braden proudly showed me the pyramid he had been making. I’m glad kinetic sand can entertain people of all ages!
Braden and his sand pyramid
So me Kai, and Isaac played Amerigo on Sunday. Amerigo is Dad’s game that he made up with his brother. At first Kai was getting hurt by Isaac, and I was just living a peaceful life. Then Isaac decided to attack me. When Isaac attacked me with his boats he did not succeed, so I went to attack him back and failed.
Then after a long time he beat me in a land battle and won. Later we wanted to play with Dad so it was me, Dad, Kai, and Isaac. We played til midnight, and it was fun, but I got out early.
Dad with Presidente Moran at ward activity
I realize that I don’t play a lot of games anymore, even though our family loves to play games. However, Sunday evening, the boys convinced me to play a game they’ve become interested in. It’s called Amerigo, and it was made by…my brother Keric and I over 20 years ago!
I had a lot of fun playing with the boys, but the game lasted forever, and I think we didn’t finish until after midnight!
Dad playing Amerigo with the boys