Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Traveling Looks Good on Me... Lanni O'Reilly

Hello parents, fans, and stalkers! As you have already read from some of my beautiful team mates, the NZ/Samoa trip was amazing. Everything about the two countries was beautiful; the rolling green hills, the quiet clear ocean, and most importantly the people. It’s amazing how much you are able to learn when serving others. Here are some memories from New Zealand and Samoa:

-trying to get used to the roads (Sam nearly killed our van a couple times, saved by divine intervention)
-our ferry ride to Davenport
-Erica and Patty missing the ferry ride back from Davenport
-when we left 'Ilikea at the museum (oops…)
-when Jaicee missed the ball while hitting during the game
-temple day
-Air New Zealand
-giving and singing to the elementary school and high school
-Karaoke night!!
-throwing shirts to random people walking on the street
-beach days with the girls

There are so many other memories that I have and cherish. The best part of the trip was getting closer to my team. I’ve learned so much from this experience, but what I’ve gained most is a new and profound pride for my own beautiful country. Experiencing other countries and other cultures helped me see all the blessings I have here. I love the United States more than I can express, and I’m so grateful for the inspired men that were brave enough to stand apart and start it.

–Lanni O’Reilly #5












Thursday, June 10, 2010

Recent Articles of NZ/Samoa...


Daily Herald article by Neil Warner...
"UVU Volleyball Trip Centers on Service"


Wolverine Green Article...
"KJZZ to Feature UVU's Women's Volleyball Team Sunday Morning"


Be sure to watch us on "Utah Matters" this Sunday, June 13th at 9:30 am on KJZZ!

Life Changing Memories by Mrs. Allyce Jones

New Zealand and Samoa changed my life. I am so grateful for the opportunity to leave for two weeks and havethese wonderful, incredible memories. I am a changed person after experiencing the New Zealand and Samoa cultures. Both are so loving, giving, and grateful for everything around them. Everyone needs to experience their love and appreciation for life.

My favorite parts:

New Zealand
-Beautiful runs in Auckland
-Meeting our host families
-THE LUGE RIDES!!!!
-Amazing New Zealand Food
-New Zealand Temple
-Learning about the Maori Culture
-Coach being our Chief
-Singing "Party in the USA" on the bus
-Seeing a Real Life Professional Rugby Game
-The amazing Auckland Museum

Samoa
-Seeing Elder Atoa at the airport
-Feeling the hot, humid weather
-Delivering items to the Hospitals
-Seeing the light in the childrens eyes at the hospital after giving them a stuffed animal
-Seeing the grateful mothers when receiving their hygiene kits
-Delivering to Ahmu Academy
-Ahmu Academy children running up and hugging us and saying "I LOVE YOU!"
-Kareoke Night @ the Fish and Chips Shack
-The amazing beaches
-Overcoming my fear of swimming under the cave
-Seeing coach talk about his father at his grave (one of the neatest moments in my life)
-Santa Day: Driving down in the van and distributing t-shirts
-Sunday Fireside: No words can describe the spirit we felt

Overall:
-Being with my best friends for two weeks straight
-REUNITING WITH MY HUSBAND AT THE AIRPORT (TWO WEEKS IS A LONG TIME!)

It was a trip I will never forget for the rest of my life. I love my team and coaches so much and we have a memory together that we will chrish forever for the rest of our lives!!!!!

Love, Allyce