Meanwhile in Utah

Brinley studied for finals, like a mad woman, for days.  She was a stress case.  I was impressed with her stamina but also a little concerned.  I encouraged her to take a  ten minute break at least once every hour and move.  (This was after she and Kaitlyn had less than 100 steps for an entire day!) 

Looks like the elf on the shelf we gave her apartment for Christmas is being put to good use.

I also mentioned she should be sure to eat healthy, and she could give herself some slack.  She didn't have to ace her finals.  I thought maybe giving her permission to not try to reach perfection might help.  However, she told me she just could not not give her very best.  I was impressed.  She did very well on all of her finals and finished her semester strong.

The early morning group.  They were able to do baptisms.  The SLC temple will be closing soon for some major renovations.

She purposely wrapped up her exams with two days left of the semester so she could enjoy bonding time with her roommates.  Today, Brinley and a big group of her friends spent the entire day in SLC.  Several of them did baptisms at 7:00 in the morning.  (I also love that the temple has been a very prominent part of her first semester at college.  She and several roomies wake up early and go every Wednesday to the Provo temple.) 

They enjoyed the Visitor's Center and other sites around SLC.  They were sure to stay until it got dark so they could enjoy the lights at Temple Square.  I love that she has these amazing friends who do good and have fun together.

Brinley purchased glasses for someone in need from a Giving Machine.

I am so impressed with Brinley.  She is a young lady with focus and determination.  She  not only puts in the time with her studies but more importantly she tries to keep her focus on what is most important: living and loving the gospel of Jesus Christ.