My Sister Got Married

This month one of my sisters got married to a great guy. They got married in the temple, and it was a wonderful day for them. I am very happy for them.

BYU Basketball Pull Out Wins 3-0

Another great week and a half for BYU men's and women's basketball with a 3-0 record over three games.

Men's Basketball (Now 10-3)
#1 December 20, 2014 vs. Stanford (Won 79-77)
#2 December 23, 2014 vs. University of Massachusetts (Won in overtime 77-71)

Women's Basketball (Now 8-3)
#1 December 22, 2014 @ Utah State (Won in double overtime 62-58)

These were the last non-conference games for both teams. Starting Saturday, they will be playing WCC foes for the rest of the regular season starting with Gonzaga for both teams...Gonzaga is the best team in the WCC for men's and women's. For both men's and women's BYU basketball they've have pretty decent non-conference records with only 3 losses each. Men's losses came to three good teams in San Diego State, Purdue, and Utah. San Diego State and Utah are both currently ranked. Women's losses came also to three good teams. One is currently ranked and undefeated...Oregon State ranked at #10.

Here's to a successful run in conference games this season starting at their first tough games against one of the best teams in the WCC historically, Gonzaga.

Men's Basketball
With two close wins, I would think they would have gained some more national recognition after beating two well-known universities in Stanford and Massachusetts. With the Stanford game, game #1, One thing that helped BYU stay in the game was 21 of 29 on free throws. They were otherwise pretty even with field goals when compared to Stanford. The lead changed 8 times throughout the game which shows how close it was. Also BYU dominated in 2nd chance points. With the Massachusetts game, the free throws made the difference again...especially in the overtime play. Overall BYU was 26 of 32 on free throws compared to Massachusetts (12 of 17). Otherwise, again, BYU and Massachusetts were even on field goals. Also Anson Winder was a big playmaker in that game when Tyler Haws was struggling. Anson scored a big 25 points off the bench along with Skyler Halford with 8 and Corbin Kaufusi with 6. With those three guys contributions along with a big game by starter Kyle Collinsworth, BYU was able to stay in the game and defeat Massachusetts.

Men's Game #1
Tyler Haws: 24 points; 4 assists
Chase Fischer: 16 points; 2 steals
Kyle Collinsworth: 15 points; 10 total (7 defensive) rebounds; 7 assists; 2 steals
Anson Winder: 13 points; 4 defensive rebounds
Isaac Neilson: 6 rebounds; 2 blocks; 6 points

Men's Game #2
Anson Winder: 25 points; 5 rebounds (4 defensive)
Kyle Collinsworth: 18 points; 15 rebounds (10 defensive); 4 assists; 3 steals
Chase Fischer: 8 points; 2 steals; 2 assists
Skyler Halford: 8 points; 5 rebounds (4 defensive)
Corbin Kaufusi: 6 points; 1 block; 2 steals

Women's Basketball
The BYU Women's team had a very closely fought game with Utah State...a fabulous and intense rivalry game. During the first half BYU struggled with three-pointers with 0 made out of 8 but still got the lead at half-time with 5 free throws. The score at halftime was 23-18 with BYU ahead The second half had Utah State catching up a couple more field goals than BYU (including one more three-pointer) to tie the game. In the first overtime, only 4 total points were scored between the two teams, and then in the second overtime, BYU was able to finish it ahead by two with a lone three pointer between the two teams and 5 for 6 on free throws whereas Utah State was only 2 for 2 on free throws and no three-pointers.

Women's Game #1
Lexi Eaton: 29 points; 8 rebounds (7 defensive); 4 assists; 2 steals
Morgan Bailey: 19 points; 22 rebounds (17 defensive); 2 assists; 1 block; 3 steals
Makenzie Morrison: 4 points; 3 steals
Ashley Garfield: 4 points; 7 rebounds; 2 assists; 2 steals
Kylie Maeda: 2 assists; 1 defensive rebound
Team: 8 rebounds

#SharetheGift 12/24/2014

Today I just want to share a story that happened to me yesterday. My father was dropping some food off for an elderly woman, and I wanted to join and be a part of it. It was a great experience to see a smile on her face when it was explained what all we brought her.

It is an amazing thing to feel that happiness within yourself when you give to others. God fills you with that happiness and a peace that you can't feel otherwise. You can feel peace and happiness other ways, but through doing service it feels different...a better 'different'.

I promise y'all that if you do something to help others through service with a giving heart, you will feel something like I did.

#SharetheGift 12/23/2014

When the star appeared in the sky, three wise men were called by King Herod to go see the Christ child (because the king was afraid the child). So they traveled to Bethlehem to find Christ. In the scriptures, it reads, "When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo, the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it came and stood over where the young child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, frankincense, and myrrrh." (Reference: Matthew 2:1-11)

During this time of the year, let us give gifts to others. As the wise men did in giving gifts to Christ, we will be blessed if we do the same in thinking of others more than ourselves. The wise men were led by God through the star to the Christ child, so that they can share the news with others and have the wonderful opportunity to give what they had to Christ their Savior.

Let us do the same in giving to others this season...giving through physical objects or acts of service to those who are close to us. If we do that, it will help be a reminder of the true meaning of Christmas.

#SharetheGift 12/22/2014

When the angels came to the shepherds in the fields and told them that, "Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord." They were told where to find the Christ child, and went directly to see them. I believe they knew who He was and what joy and peace He would bring to the world. (Reference: Luke 2:8-14)

After they saw Christ, "they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heart it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds." The shepherds were so overjoyed by the news and sight of Christ, that they wanted to share that gift with the world. (Reference: Luke 2:15-18)

I challenge y'all to share the story of Christ's birth to your families. Strive to remember the true meaning and reason why we celebrate Christmas...to remember and celebrate the birth of Christ.

BYU Women's Volleyball End Season with Second Place

This last weekend, the BYU Women's Volleyball team led by great athletes like Jennifer Hamson and Alexa Gray played in the final four of the national tournament and went on to play in the National Championship against the defending champion, Penn State. This would be only the second time BYU has gone to the final four.

On December 18, BYU played the semifinal game against No. 2-seeded Texas. They won the first two sets, lost the third, and then finished the game with a kill to cap the set 26-24 and to win the game 3-1. Jennifer Hamson had a great game with 22 kills, 25.5 points, 10 digs, and 7 block assists. Alexa Gray also had a great game with 19 kills and 20.5 points. The third best player in my opinion was Alohi Robins-Hardy, a dual-threat athlete like Jennifer Hamson in basketball and women's volleyball. She had a good game with 54 assists. and 8 digs.

After winning against Texas, BYU went on to the National Championship to play No. 5-seeded Penn State (defending champion). The first two sets were close in points (25-21, 26-24), but BYU wasn't able to pull the win in either one of them. Then Penn State won the game with a third win to make the final score 3-0. Jennifer Hamson again had a good game with 14 kills, 8 digs, and 16 points. Alexa Gray had 9 kills and 10 points, and Amy Boswell had 7 kills and 9.5 points. Alohi Robins-Hardy had 31 assists and 8 digs. The women had a tough time trying to beat them, but just couldn't pull the win. 

Finishing in second place, BYU went farther than some people thought. They excelled and made an excellent run with 3-0 and 3-1 wins throughout the whole tournament until the national championship. With players like Alexa Gray, Amy Boswell, and hopefully Alohi Robins-Hardy returning next year, they should have another great season. They ended this season with a great 30-5 overall record.

Jennifer Hamson has now finished at BYU and has a big decision to make in whether she wants to pursue volleyball or basketball. The Los Angeles Sparks drafted her earlier this year, so if she wants to go that route she has an open door for her in basketball, or she can go pursue professional volleyball.

BYU has Tough Loss in Miami Beach Bowl

In a tough-fought game, BYU lost their bowl game of the season in the Miami Beach Bowl game against Memphis. The final score was 48-55 in double overtime. It was played yesterday, Monday, December 22, 2014, and they now have an overall record of 8-5.

It was a well fought game. The offense had good drives and the defense had good stops. The offense and defense was also generally good for Memphis too. There were fumbles and interceptions caused by both teams but with BYU having one less turnover. In total yards BYU and Memphis were pretty even with BYU having 425 total yards and Memphis having 480 total yards. BYU and Memphis both converted all 4th down conversions. BYU had more passing yards than Memphis but less rushing yards. BYU was 3 for 3 on Red Zone scoring whereas Memphis was 6 for 7. BYU defense had the only defensive touchdown off of a sweet interception near the end of the game.

There were a lot of good things that happened which I pointed out. Christian Stewart was roughed up quite a bit with 2 sacks and many other hits. At one point it looked like he was sit out and McCoy Hill was going to take over, but Stewart was able to get back out on the field to finish the rest of the game. I think he showed great strength in order to try to get the win for his team. Other offensive players with big games were Algernon Brown, Paul Lasike, Mitch Mathews, Jordan Leslie, and Mitchell Juergens. They all performed with great strength when it was needed of them. There were many defensive players with big games too. You can look at the stats below but some of them were Zac Stout, Alani Fua, Travis Tuiloma, and Harvey Jackson. And all those names are just naming a few out of many who executed when they needed to to keep BYU in the game.

Some of the weaknesses BYU showed were the snaps to Christian Stewart. I don't know what happened there, but there were at least 5 or 6 of them where Christian Stewart showed up to keep those loose balls from being turnovers. Also there were still tackling issues from the defense and special teams. Both the BYU and Memphis quarterbacks (Stewart and Lynch) threw some questionable passes that were intercepted. But regardless of those weaknesses, I think BYU overall did a good job against a good defense and overall good team in Memphis.

They have things they can sharpen up over this break before next fall. Seniors like Christian Stewart, Alani Fua, Craig Bills, and Paul Lasike will be leaving on their own paths, but superb players like Taysom Hill, Jamaal Williams, Bronson Kaufusi, and Mitch Mathews will be returning to help BYU play against one of their toughest schedules yet. They will need them all and others in full health as they battle teams like Nebraska, Missouri, Boise State, Utah State, and Michigan. It is sad to see the seniors leave but they will for sure move on to bigger and better things ranging from jobs from their majors or going to the NFL. We will find out in the first half of next year who decides to try for the NFL. As far as I know, no one has declared yet if they will do it or not, but I'm sure at least a few are thinking of it.

Here's to a tough but overall winning 8-5 season. Injuries were major challenges this year but they were able to overcome them to win their last 4 regular season games after a 4-game losing streak. Here's to another good season next year with at least a couple of NFL prospects returning for their last years at BYU. Let's go BYU Cougars!

With the season and post-season over, BYU football will have spring and fall practices (during the summer) before their first game of next season (2015). That game will be played against Nebraska in Lincoln, Nebraska. I'll probably post during the summer my opinion of the upcoming 2015 season lineup.

Here are some quick stats from the game:
PASSING/RECEIVING (348 total yards; 3 touchdowns; 15.1 average yards per catch)
Christian Stewart (QB): 23 completions for 48 attempts (47.9%); 3 TOUCHDOWNS; 7.1 yards per passing attempt; 2 sacks; 3 interceptions; 2 fumbles (0 lost)
Mitch Mathews (WR): 82 yards with 9.1 average; 1 TOUCHDOWN; longest catch was 25 yards
Mitchell Juergens (WR): 87 yards with 21.8 average; 1 TOUCHDOWN; longest catch was 47 yards
Devin Mahina (TE): 54 yards with 27.0 average; longest catch was 41 yards
Terenn Houk (WR): 42 yards with 21.0 average; longest catch was 24 yards
Jordan Leslie (WR): 1 catch for 23 yards; 1 TOUCHDOWN
Other Players with catches: Devon Blackmon (WR; 1 for 14 yards); Adam Hine (RB; 1 for 11 yards); Keanu Nelson (WR; 1 for 9 yards); Algernon Brown  (RB; 1 for 7 yards)

RUSHING (77 net yards (117 total yards); 2 touchdowns)
Algernon Brown (RB): 79 net yards with 4.2 average; longest rush was 12 yards
Paul Lasike (RB): 11 net yards with 1.6 average; 2 TOUCHDOWNS; longest rush was 7 yards; 1 lost fumble
Mitchell Juergens (WR): 3 yards with 3.0 average
Adam Hine (RB): 0 net yards (1 yard gained and 1 yard lost)
Christian Stewart (QB): -11 net yards (30 lost; 19 gained); longest rush was 8 yards; -1.0 average

KICKING/PUNTING
Trevor Samson (K): 2 for 2 on field goals; longest field goal was 45 yards; 6 for 6 on extra points after touchdowns
Scott Arellano (P): 46.6 average yards per punt; longest punt was 56 yards

DEFENSIVE (88 total (77 solo) tackles; 1 sack; 6 passes broken up; 3 forced (4 total) fumbles(2 recovered fumbles); 6 tackles for loss for 25 yards; 2 QB Hits; 3 interceptions with a touchdown on one of them)
Skye PoVey (DB): 9 total (8 solo) tackles; 1 pass broken up; 1 tackle for loss for 1 yard
Michael Davis (DB): 8 total (8 solo) tackles; 1 pass broken up
Logan Taele (DL): 8 total (4 solo) tackles; 1 QB hit
Alani Fua (LB): 5 total (5 solo) tackles; 2 tackles for loss for 4 yards; 1 INTERCEPTION with a return of 37 yards
Bronson Kaufusi (LB): 4 total (4 solo) tackles; 1 SACK; 1 tackle for loss for 7 yards; 1 forced fumble
Kai Nacua (DB): 4 total (4 solo) tackles
Robertson Daniel (DB): 4 total (4 solo) tackles; 1 pass broken up
Travis Tuiloma (DL): 4 total (3 solo) tackles; 2 tackles for loss for 13 yards
Zac Stout (LB): 4 total (3 solo) tackles; 1 INTERCEPTION for return of 19 yards and 1 TOUCHDOWN
Chris Badger (DB): 4 total (1 solo) tackles
Harvey Jackson (DB): 3 total (3 solo) tackles; 2 passes broken up; 1 QB hit
Manoa Pikula (LB): 3 total (1 solo) tackles; 1 INTERCEPTION with return of 2 yards
Other players with Forced Fumbles: Va'a Niumatalolo (LB; 1) and Graham Rowley (DL; 1)
Other players with Passes Broken Up: Michael Alisa (LB; 1)

#SharetheGift 12/21/2014

This a neat video that gives a beautiful rendition of the song "The First Noel" with scenes of a wintry, snowy city with acts of kindness and a neat nativity scene in a home with two little kids.

This time of year is a special time where we can solely focus on the gift of giving and Christ's birth. On that special night of His birth, God gave the best gift of all. He sent His beloved son down to this Earth in order to bless us immensely. Even today we still feel His influence as we hear of his miracles and gifts of faith to others. My challenge to y'all is to serve God through following Christ's example. I know that is one of the reasons why God sent him here...so that we may have an amazing example to follow. If we do as Christ did in giving to others, we will find more joy in this world. In the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

I would like to say that these videos I'm posting are only a few minutes long per each video, so they won't take long to watch and definitely worth your time.

#SharetheGift 12/20/2014

Here's another great video in the which Christ teaches that it is better to use our talents instead of hiding them. I have heard various interpretations of this parable, but the one I believe is that of sharing our talents and using them. If we have a talent, skill, or trade with which God has blessed us with...given us freely, we must use it. I challenge y'all to use that talent to share a gift with someone else. And if you do, like Christ teaches in this video, God will bless you with more. The scriptural reference for this parable is Matthew 25:14-30.

#SharetheGift 12/19/2014

The video on this blog is an amazing one where Christ and His apostles feed 5000 people with only 5 loaves of bread and two fishes. You might think it impossible but with Christ's faith and God's power, it was completed. All 5000 people were filled, and Christ shared an amazing gift with all of them. A scriptural reference for this miracle is Matthew 14:13-21.

We might find that we don't have the time or energy to share a gift with someone else close to us, but if we ask God and have faith, he will help you...give you the time and/or energy.

The Santa Clause

The Santa Clause

One of the best Christmas films made, Disney's "The Santa Clause" stars Tim Allen as a divorced businessman, Scott Calvin, who finds himself one Christmas Eve night as the new Santa Claus after the former one basically gave Scott the "mantle" after falling off the roof into the snow. At first Scott/Santa didn't believe it. Over the next year he went through trying times, but his son always believed in him and continually reminded him how important his job is. 

I grew up in a home where this was a must-see film by my mother every year around Christmas-time. It's a great classic with great acting and a great plot. Tim Allen executed well in portraying the development of Scott's character. Plus I liked the acting of those who played Scott's son, ex-wife, and his son's new father. The only small negatives about the movie are two crude words (ones I don't even notice). This film is rated PG. I recommend this film for all families.

I would give this film an overall 5-star rating!

If you want to see imdb.com's parental advisory thing, you can click on the film title above and there will be a link there to take you there.

The imdb.com summary for this film is:

When a man inadvertantly kills Santa on Christmas Eve, he finds himself magically recruited to take his place.

BYU Women's Volleyball in Final Four!

Here's a quick BIG announcement!

For only the second time for BYU Women's Volleyball, they will be playing in the Final Four against #2-seeded Texas this Thursday, December 18, 2014 in Oklahoma City on ESPN2. As of right now, the time is unknown.

Their path to the Final Four went something like this:
Round 1: Won against Seton Hall 3-0
Round 2: Won against #11-seeded Arizona 3-1
Sweet 16: Won against #6-seeded Florida State 3-1
Elite Eight: Won against #14-seeded Nebraska 3-0

They have a had phenomenal run so far with dual-sport athlete Jennifer Hamson helping lead the way. If they win on Thursday, they will then play in the National Championship on Saturday against either #1-seeded Stanford or #5-seeded Penn State (depending on who wins the other semi-final).

Let's all root for an amazing women's volleyball team as they make a run for the national championship! Go BYU!

BYU Basketball 7-1 In Two Weeks

Overall it has been a good two weeks for the BYU men's and women's basketball teams with an overall record of 7-1.

Here is a quick score summary:
Men's Team (now 8-3)
#1 December 2, 2014 @ Utah State (Won 91-81)
#2 December 6, 2014 vs. Hawai'i (Won 90-70)
#3 December 10, 2014 vs. Utah (Lost 61-65)
#4 December 13, 2014 @ Weber State (Won 76-60)

Women's Team (now 7-3)
#1 December 4, 2014 vs. UNLV (Won 76-61)
#2 December 6, 2014 vs. Colorado State (Won 69-58)
#3 December 9, 2014 vs. Weber State (Won 64-53)
#4 December 13, 2014 @ Utah (Won 60-56)

Men's Team
For the most part, the men's team did a good job these last two weeks. The only time they struggled was against Utah (Game #3) where they lost by only 4 points. They had a chance to tie it near the end but couldn't the points. Interestingly enough, with all three losses this season for them, they've only lost by 11 total points. The offense is looking good except they are struggling in inside shots which hurt them a bit against Utah. Hopefully they can get more of those so they compete more against the bigger teams. A couple of injuries occurred. Nate Austin and Tyler Haws are down with injuries. Tyler Haws has a left ankle sprain. The severity of it is yet unknown. Nate Austin has a torn right hamstring which will keep him out for at least two weeks. Game #1 at Utah State was a close one at the end of the first half (Utah State winning 32-31), but BYU pulled ahead with their 24 straight free throws in the second half to win it. Game #2 versus Hawai'i was played in the EnergySolutions Arena in Salt Lake City (home of the Utah Jazz). BYU was winning at half time by 7 and then pulled even further ahead by outscoring Hawai'i by 13 in the second half. Game #4 was at Weber State where BYU had an amazing number of 12 three-pointers (63.2% completion), and that ended up helping them win the game.


Top Players for Men's Game #1 (87.2% completion on free throws (24 straight to end the game):
Tyler Haws [35 points (52.6% field goals; 92.3% free throws); 6 rebounds];
Kyle Collinsworth [20 points (100% free throws); 10 rebounds; 4 assists; 3 steals; 1 block];
Anson Winder [17 points (60% field goals); 3 assists; 2 steals];
Nate Austin [9 total (6 defensive) rebounds];
Luke Worthington (6 rebounds)

Top Players for Men's Game #2 (9 three-pointers):
Tyler Haws [30 points (52.9% field goals; 100% free throws); 7 rebounds];
Chase Fischer [20 points (54.5% field goals; 4 three-pointers); 5 rebounds; 5 ssists; 3 steals]
Kyle Collinsworth [19 points; 12 rebounds; 10 assists (achieved the first BYU triple-double in a game since 1988); 2 blocks]
Anson Winder (11 points; 5 rebounds; 6 assists; 2 steals; 1 block)

Top Players for Men's Game #3 (7 three-pointers; 8 steals):
Tyler Haws (23 points; 8 rebounds);
Kyle Collinsworth (17 points; 9 rebounds; 5 assists);
Anson Winder (10 points; 4 rebounds; 2 assists; 2 steals);
Skyler Halford (2 assists; 3 steals)

Top Players for Men's Game #4 (8 steals; 12 three-pointers; 54.3% on field goals):
Tyler Haws (19 points; 7 rebounds; 5 assists);
Isaac Neilson (15 points; 6 rebounds (5 defensive); 1 block; 2 steals; 4-5 on three-pointers);
Chase Fischer (13 points; 4 assists; 4-7 on three pointers);
Anson Winder (9 points; 5 defensive rebounds);
Skyler Halford (5 rebounds; 3 assists);
Dalton Nixon and Corbin Kaufusi each had 4 rebounds

Women's Team
The women's team had a good streak of wins winning all four against universities here in the Western United States. Game #1 at home against UNLV was a good one where BYU dominated in the first half and finished the game strong. A statistic they dominated in that game was points in paint. BYU had 40 points whereas UNLV only had 10. With Game #2 in the EnergySolutions Arena, they played a good team in Colorado State. BYU and Colorado State both had a lot of three-pointers with a combined 17. BYU was able to maintain the lead for most of the game. Game #3 was Weber State at home in Provo with another good win, and Game #4 was a big rivalry game between BYU and Utah where BYU won it and giving some revenge after the men's team lost to Utah just a few days before.

Game #1:
Lexi Eaton (19 points; 6 rebounds (5 defensive); 61.5% on field goals);
Makenzi Morrison (17 points; 2 steals; 2 three-pointers);
Morgan Bailey (12 points; 11 defensive rebounds; 4 assists; 1 block; 83.3% on field goals);
Ashley Garfield (10 points; 15 total rebounds; 2 assists; 66.7% on field goals);
Kylie Maeda (8 assists; 2 steals)

Game #2:
Lexi Eaton (30 points; 13 rebounds (9 defensive); 55.6% on field goals; 5-7 on three-pointers);
Morgan Bailey (9 points; 10 rebounds (9 defensive));
Kylie Maeda (4 rebounds; 5 assists; 1 block; 1 steal);
Xojian Harry (13 points; 83.3% on field goals; 2-3 on three-pointers);
Makenzi Morrison (2 steals);
Ashley Garfield (9 rebounds; 4 assists)

Game #3:
Morgan Bailey (28 points; 8 rebounds (7 defensive); 2 blocks);
Lexi Eaton (25 points; 3 three-pointers; 9 rebounds; 3 assists);
Ashley Garfield (8 rebounds (7 defensive); 3 assists; 3 steals);
Kylie Maeda (2 assists; 2 steals);
Cassie Broadhead (3 assists)

Game #4:
Morgan Bailey (18 points; 10 rebounds (9 defensive);
Kylie Maeda (16 points; 4 defensive rebounds; 5 assists; 2-2 on three-pointers);
Lexi Eaton (13 points; 3-4 on three-pointers);
Ashley Garfield (7 rebounds; 5 assists);
Makenzi Morrison (8 total points) and Xojian Harry each had 1 three-pointer

Star Wars Episode VII - Teaser Trailer Thoughts

I just wanted to share some of my thoughts on the teaser trailer for Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=erLk59H86ww&list=FL1GqA95NozrqA3W8jplE4Lw&index=16

I love the footage they included in the trailer. I love how they introduced some of the new characters to the franchise, had amazing footage of x-wing fighters and the Millennium Falcon, and the shots of the stormtroopers in the transport-type vehicle. The thing that was a little sad was that there wasn't any footage of Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, or Leia, but I'm sure they will be in the next trailer or something. I'm excited to see how the new characters fit in to the Star Wars Universe, and I'm excited to learn about the plot of the movie.

In addition, recently J.J. Abrams and Lucasfilm released some "trading cards" to go along with the teaser trailer. There are names of the new characters in the trailer revealed on the cards. I have the cards down below. They are fun, classic-looking cards focusing on each video clip from the trailer. I have wrote a little under each one.

With the teaser trailer and these trading cards revealed, I'm sincerely and officially teased. I am very excited to see what else they release to us as the film premiere date gets closer and closer.

When I saw this droid, BB-8, I automatically think of R2-D2 and C-3PO. I feel that BB-8 will have a similar role in this trilogy of as they did in previous films. It is unknown yet how much we'll see of R2-D2 and C-3PO in this new film, but I'm sure we will see them.

One thing that was brought up in a YouTube video I saw about these cards was that Finn doesn't have a last name here like in other characters on cards below. I believe that that is because it is a familiar last name that will be revealed later. It will be exciting to see who Finn fits into the film.

My personal opinion is that this is a new villain. I read or hear somewhere online of what it might mean that the Force is awakening. I agree with them that the force awakening means that the dark side of the force might be showing itself for the first time since "The Return of the Jedi" (the last Star Wars movie). Also, with the lightsaber, I've read some things where people don't like the lightsaber design here, but when you think about it, it might be that this character built this lightsaber to fit his fighting style and personality. It's been done like that in the past.

Not much to say here except it's my favorite clip from the trailer. I love the detail on the Millennium Falcon and the angles of it flying across the desert. The CGI looks amazing. 

This clip was my second favorite clip in the trailer. The x-wings flying across the body of water is some sweet CGI effects. It's a beautiful shot.

The three shots of these stormtroopers in what I'm guessing is a transport-type vehicle were also neat. They have a new armor design that looks sweet, and it just makes me excited to see more modern-day film shots of these and many other things in the Star Wars universe.

Like with Finn on a card above, Rey's last name is probably one that is well-known among Star Wars fans, so they will probably release her last name later. I love the shot of her on her speeder, and I'm excited to see what role she has to play in the film.

Let's just say that the helmet design is sweet. This shot makes me excited to learn more about this new character, Poe Dameron. I also love that they still have the rebels symbol (it is on his helmet).

BYU Bowl Announcement 2014

Alongside a lot of announcements for post-season college football, it was announced who BYU Football (8-4 overall record) will be playing in the Miami Beach Bowl game. They will be playing the American Athletic Conference co-champion (they tied with two other teams, Cincinnati and UCF), the Memphis Tigers. Memphis has an (9-3 overall record; 7-1 conference record) experienced veteran defense and two good running backs.They are 5th overall in points against (17.1 points per game) and 30th in points scored (34.7 points per game).

From what I know about Memphis so far, I think it will be a good game. Memphis told their conference that they want to play BYU, so for me it's good to see that desire to play us. 

Here are some broadcast details. It will be played on Monday, December 22, 2014, at 12:00 PM MST (2:00 PM ET) and broadcast on ESPN! Plus, on BYUtv there will be the daily BYU Sports Nation show (10:00 AM MST), the Countdown to Kickoff pre-game show (11:00 AM MST), and after the game (approximately 3:30 PM MST) the Post-Game show!

If you want to catch up on some of the football games from this season, you can go to BYUtv's website (here's the link) and the BYUtv Sports website (here's that link). They have the Houston, Virginia, Utah State, Nevada, and UNLV games so far for this 2014 season.

Semi-Challenging Week for BYU BBall

It was a tough week for both BYU Basketball teams last week. Here are is a quick score summary:
Men's Team (now 5-2)
#1 Maui Invitational: November 24, 2014 vs. San Diego State (Lost 87-92 in double overtime)
#2 Maui Invitational: November 25, 2014 vs. Chaminade (Won 121-85)
#3 Maui Invitational: November 26, 2014 vs. Purdue (Lost 85-87 in overtime)
#4 November 29, 2014 vs. Eastern Kentucky (Won 90-76)

Women's Team (now 3-3)
#1 November 22, 2014 vs. Nevada (Won 65-60)
#2 Tom Weston Invitational: November 26, 2014 vs. Butler (Won 81-62)
#3 Tom Weston Invitational: November 27, 2014 vs. BYU-Hawaii (Won 73-52)
#4 Tom Weston Invitational: November 29, 2014 vs. Oregon State (Lost 61-71)

Men's Team
The games against San Diego State and Purdue were tough and close games where they barely lost; The other two games were good games from all players with clear wins. With the first game, BYU was able to get a tie for overtime. They almost won in overtime by 2, but San Diego State tied it again and then dominated in the second. It was tough loss. In the game against Chaminade a record was made. Chase Fischer's 10 3-pointers broke Jimmer Fredette's BYU school record of 9. It was also a great game because it was a great comeback for BYU after a hard loss against San Diego State. Some things that kept BYU in the game against Purdue were fast break points, points off turnovers, second chance points, and the better completion percentage on 3-pointers. The Eastern Kentucky game was low-scoring in the first half, but high-scoring in the second as BYU pulled ahead to win by a good margin.

Top Players for Men's Game #1 (13 3-pointers):
Tyler Haws (26 points; 5 of 9 for 3-pointers);
Kyle Collinsworth (21 points; 6 defensive (7 total) rebounds; 6 assists; 3 steals);
Anson Winder (14 points; 5 rebounds);
Isaac Neilson (12 points; 3 defensive (4 total) rebounds; 2 blocks; made 57.1 % of field goal shots)

Top Players for Men's Game #2 (17 3-pointers):
Chase Fischer (30 points; 10 of 13 for 3-pointers);
Tyler Haws (19 points; 85.7 % on field goal shots);
Kyle Collinsworth (14 points; 3 steals; 5 defensive (8 total) rebounds; 6 assists);
Anson Winder (18 points; 7 defensive (8 total) rebounds);
Nate Austin (6 defensive (7 total) rebounds);
Corbin Kaufusi (4 offensive (6 total) rebounds; 2 blocks)

Top Players for Men's Game #3 (7 3 pointers):
Tyler Haws (32 points; 5 defensive rebounds; 3 blocks; 92.9% on free throws);
Anson Winder (18 points; 77.8 % on field goals shot);
Kyle Collinsworth (9 points; 8 assists; 6 steals);
Nate Austin (6 rebounds)

Top Players for Men's Game #4 (15 3-pointers; made over half of field goals):
Tyler Haws (26 points; 4 rebounds; 4 assists);
Chase Fischer (20 points; 3 defensive rebounds);
Kyle Collinsworth (11 points; 5 assists; 4 rebounds);
Anson Winder (19 points; 5 rebounds);
Skyler Halford and Frank Bartely IV each with 4 assists

Women's Team
The women's team had a good week with a 3-1 record their last four games. I won't go into much detail, but I will mention some of the top players.
Game 1: Lexi Eaton (29 points; 3 steals; 66.7% on 3-pointers; 52.6% on total field goals); Morgan Bailey (12 points; 3 steals; 13 defensive (17 total) rebounds); Kylie Maeda (4 assists); Cassie Broadhead (3 assists)
Game 2 (55.0% in field goals): Makenzi Morrison (16 points); Morgan Bailey (8 defensive/total rebounds; 14 points); Micaelee Orton (6 rebounds; 2 blocks); Kylie Maeda (6 assists; 13 points); Lexi Eaton (14 points; 2 steals)
Game 3: Lexi Eaton (17 points; 4 assists); Morgan Bailey (13 points; 7 defensive (9 total) rebounds; 1 block); Kylie Maeda (5 assists); Makenzi Morrison, Ashley Garfield, & Xojian Harry each with 3 steals
Game 4: Morgan Bailey (26 points; 7 defensive (9 total) rebounds 3 assists); Lexi Eaton (19 points; 6 defensive (8 total) rebounds; 4 assists); Ashley Garfield (2 steals; 6 rebounds); Makenzie Morrison (3 assists; 10 points); Kylie Maeda (4 assists)

BYU Wins @ California

BYU pulls out another win at California's home field in a 42-35 win. They played this last Saturday, November 29, 2014, and now has a current record of 8-4.

The offense and defense both played well. The defense still isn't the best but on the last drive, they were able to stop California from scoring and tying the game. The offense had a great game with Christian Stewart getting his highest passing yard count in a game so far. He also got the most passing touchdowns in a game so far. Jordan Leslie also did well with the next best offensive performance of the game. Scott Arellano, the punter, helped a lot in pinning California back 3 out 4 times with his punts. Penalties are still a problem, but hopefully those improve. Despite those penalties, though, and the inconsistent execution of the defense, BYU as a whole team was able to get the win. The game was a hard-fought close game the whole time. With a half-time score of 21-14 (California winning), BYU was able to outscore in the second half with a defense who was able to stop California more than in the second half.

It has been a tough but good season for BYU so far. They are now 4-0 since their losing streak in October, and they should be able to make that 5-0 after the bowl game if they can continue to play as a whole team.

Their last game for this season is their bowl game, the Miami Beach Bowl, played in Florida on Monday, December 22, 2014, versus an American Athletic Conference team who is unknown right now. It is currently scheduled to be broadcast at 12:00 PM MST on an unknown network. When more details are announced, I will do a quick post about it.

Here are some quick stats from the game:
PASSING/RECEIVING (433 total yards; 5 touchdowns; 18.8 average yards per catch)
Christian Stewart (QB): 23 completions for 38 attempts (60.53%); 5 TOUCHDOWNS; longest pass was 83 yards for a touchdown; 194.40 quarterback efficiency; 11.4 average yards per passing attempt; 1 interception; 3 sacks; lost a fumble
Mitchell Juergens (WR): 107 yards with 15.3 average; 2 TOUCHDOWNS; longest catch was 47 yards
Devon Blackmon (WR): 60 yards with 10.0 average; longest catch was 15 yards
Jordan Leslie (WR): 155 yards with 31.0 average; 2 TOUCHDOWNS; longest catch was 83 yards (for a touchdown)
Algernon Brown (RB): 31 yards with 15.5 average; 1 TOUCHDOWN; longest catch was 22 yards
Other players with catches: Mitch Mathews (WR; 1 for 39 yards); Paul Lasike (RB; 1 for 28 yards); Terenn Houk (WR; 1 for 13 yards)

RUSHING (107 net (144 total) yards; 1 touchdown)
Paul Lasike (RB): 63 yards with 5.3 average; 1 TOUCHDOWN; longest rush was 30 yards
Algernon Brown (RB): 38 yards with 3.5 average; longest rush was 9 yards
Adam Hine (RB): 20 yards with 6.7 average; longest rush was 10 yards
Christian Stewart (QB): gained 23 yards but lost 35 (-12 net yards); longest rush was 7 yards

PUNTING/KICKING
Scott Arellano (P): 4 punts with 47.3 average yards; 3 of 4 total punts was within 20-yard line; longest punt was 53 yards
Trevor Samson (K): 6 for 6 on extra point kicks

DEFENSIVE (94 total (54 solo) tackles; 9 passes broken up; 3 quarterback hits; 5 tackles for loss for 18 yards; 1 sack; 1 interception)
Kai Nacua (DB): 14 total (9 solo) tackles; 1.5 tackles for loss for 2 yards
Skye PoVey (DB): 11 total (7 solo) tackles; 2 passes broken up; 1 INTERCEPTION and a 27-yard return
Harvey Jackson (DB): 10 total (6 solo) tackles
Michael Davis (DB): 7 total (5 solo) tackles; 2 passes broken up
Austin Heder (LB): 7 total (2 solo) tackles
Logan Taele (DL): 7 total (2 solo) tackles
Robertson Daniel (DB): 5 total (4 solo) tackles; 1 pass broken up
Alani Fua (LB): 5 total (3 solo) tackles; 1 tackle for loss for 8 yards; 3 passes broken up
Graham Rowley (DL): 3 total (3 solo) tackles
Michael Alisa (LB): 3 total (1 solo) tackles; 1 quarterback hit
Jordan Preator (DB): 2 total (2 solo) tackles; 1 pass broken up
Remington Peck (DL): 2 total (1 solo) tackles; 1 tackle for loss for 1 yard; 1 quarterback hit
Travis Tuiloma (DL): 2 total tackles; 1 quarterback hit
Sione Takitaki (LB): 1 total/solo tackle; 1 SACK; 1 tackle for loss for 7 yards

Day 27 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for love. It is an unseen force between family members and between God and the individual person. It can conquer fear, and it can generate safety when there is otherwise none. I know that the bond of love between me and my family is something that keeps me strong, and knowing that God loves me more than I can imagine is something that brings safety and comfort to me.

Day 26 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for my dad. He is a great leader in my eyes as he leads his ward (an LDS congregation). He truly cares for all under his care. He is especially a great leader in our home. He has led my family with faith and love. I'm grateful for all the things he has taught me and continues to teach me. Thank you, Dad.

Day 25 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for board and card games. I love playing games with my wife and other family members. In the end it doesn't matter who wins (even though it does feel good to win every once in a while), it matters that we spend time together. My wife and I have lots of fun especially with some of our favorite games: Ticket to Ride, Five Crowns, Phase 10 Twist, and 99 or Bust. I know that as we take time to play games, we come closer as a family.

Day 24 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for my wife's parents specifically (on a different day I lumped her parents with the rest of her family; today I'll just talk a little bit about them). They have raised a beautiful daughter. I am grateful for the examples they set for her and the things they taught her. I can see them through my wife, and I love that my wife can call her mom whenever she needs some advice from her or even to talk. Thank you from me.

Day 23 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for my sisters. I've been close to them ever since we were little, and I'm grateful for how good of examples they are for me. I hope that they continually find peace midst any trials they receive, and I am always mindful and thinking of how they are doing. I love them. Happy Thanksgiving, my sisters.

BYU Wins vs. Savannah State

BYU has a blowout against Savannah State University (now 0-12) at home in Provo today, Saturday, November 22, 2014, with a final score of 64-0. With a current record of 7-4, there was no sloppiness today on the last home game for the seniors on the team. Not only did the starters have many great plays, a lot of other players from second string, third string, etc., had great plays too. Three quarterbacks, Christian Stewart, McCoy Hill, and Hunter Moore, had minutes to play and opportunities to shine. Plus, a defensive back, Nacua, also got to play for one down. Kai Nacua played as quarterback back in high school.

There were many players with rushing and passing/receiving yards, but most importantly, the starters showed with their good execution and consistency that they are ready to face a California team from the Pac-12 Conference whose offense is really good with about 500 yards a game. The BYU's defense will face a good challenge in California, so we will see if they can help BYU's offense get the win in their final regular season game. I believe that if the defense can be as consistent in execution as the offense has been in this and their last two wins, I believe they will be finish the regular season with an 8-4 record. Then it's off to the bowl game in Miami!

So, as I said, BYU will face off against California in Berkeley, California on Saturday, November 29, 2014 at a time that will be announced early next week before the game. It will be broadcast on the Pac-12 Network. For those of you who don't have the Pac-12 Network, you can hear the game on BYU Radio online, on KSL's radio channel, or on Sirius XM 143. The usual Pre- and Post-Game shows will be shown on BYUtv.

Here are some stats from the game:
PASSING/RECEIVING (223 total yards; 4 touchdowns; 15.9 average yards per pass)
Christian Stewart (QB; Senior): 12 completions for 17 attempts (70.59%); 196 total yards; 4 TOUCHDOWNS; longest pass was 71 yards for a touchdown; 11.5 average passing yards per attempt
McCoy Hill (QB): 2 completions for 2 attempts (100%); 27 total yards; longest pass was 19 yards; 13.5 average passing yards per attempt
Mitch Mathews (WR): 110 yards with 27.5 average; 2 TOUCHDOWNS; longest catch was 71 yards for a touchdown
Jordan Leslie (WR; Senior): 36 yards with 12.0 average; 1 TOUCHDOWN; longest catch was 23 yards
Devin Mahina (TE; Senior): 32 yards with 16.0 average; longest catch was 24 yards
Terenn Houk (WR): 12 yards with 6.0 average; 1 TOUCHDOWN; longest catch was 9 yards
Other players with catches: Mitchell Juergens (WR; 19-yard catch), Nate Carter (RB; 8-yard catch), and Paul Lasike (RB; 6-yard catch)

RUSHING (264 net (316 total) yards; 4 touchdowns)
Nate Carter (RB): 116 net yards (lost 1 yard) with 5.8 average; 1 TOUCHDOWN; longest rush was 15 yards
AJ Moore (RB): 62 yards with 6.2 average; 1 TOUCHDOWN; longest rush was 22 yards
Christian Stewart (QB; Senior): 44 yards with 8.8 average; 2 TOUCHDOWNS; longest rush was 16 yards
Hunter Moore (QB): 30 yards with 4.3 average; longest rush was 8 yards
McCoy Hill (QB): 27 net yards (lost 2 yards) with 5.4 average; longest rush was 12 yards
Algernon Brown (RB): 17 yards with 8.5 average; longest rush was 17 yards
Adam Hine (RB): 9 yards with 2.3 average; longest rush was 4 yards
Paul Lasike (RB; Senior): 8 yards with 2.7 average; longest rush was 6 yards
Other players with rushes: Toloa'i Ho Ching (RB; 1 rush)

PUNTING
Scott Arellano (P; Senior): 103 yards with 51.5 average; longest punt was 61 yards; 1 of 2 punts was within the 20-yard line
David Kessler (WR): punt return was 21 yards long

KICKING
Trevor Samson (K; Senior): 2 for 2 on field goals (longest was 32 yards); 8 for 8 on extra points

DEFENSIVE (no points allowed; 2 sacks; 2 forced fumbles; 1 interception)
Alani Fua (LB; Senior): 1 INTERCEPTION and returned it for 20 yards
Kavika Fonua (DB): 5 total (5 solo) tackles; 1 tackle for loss for 1 yard
Zac Stout (LB; Senior): 5 total (3 solo) tackles; 1 tackle for loss for 1 yard; 1 pass broken up; 1 forced fumble
Austin Heder (LB): 4 total (2 solo) tackles
Harvey Jackson (DB; Senior): 4 total (2 solo) tackles; 1 sack; 1 tackle for loss for 1 yard; 1 QB hit
Theodore King (DL): 3 total (3 solo) tackles
Sione Takitaki (LB): 3 total (3 solo) tackles; 1 tackle for loss for 2 yards
Michael Alisa (LB; Senior): 3 total (2 solo) tackles; 1 QB hit
Michael Wadsworth (DB): 2 total (2 solo) tackles
Remington Peck (DL): 2 total (2 solo) tackles
Tanner Balderree (DL): 2 total tackles; 0.5 sack; 0.5 tackle for loss for 5 yards
Skye PoVey (DB; Senior): 1 solo tackle; 1 forced fumble
Kesni Tausinga (DL): 1 tackle; 0.5 sack; 0.5 tackle for loss for 5 yards
Jordan Preator (DB): 1 pass broken up
Kai Nacua (DB): 1 pass broken up

BYU MBBall Win 2 Before Hawaii

In their two games this last week, BYU Men's Basketball won both in preparation to going to Hawaii this next week for the EA SPORTS Maui Invitational.

Their first one was a Maui Invitational game @ home on Tuesday, November 18, 2014, against Arkansas-Little Rock with a win and a final score of 91-62. BYU struggled a bit in the first half on scoring but in the second half picked it up a lot. At half time the score was 37-28 with BYU winning, and then BYU scored 54 points in the second half to solidify the win. BYU was always in the lead. Some other highlights were fast break points (12 for BYU; 0 for Arkansas), points off of turnovers (24 for BYU (20 in the second half); 7 for Arkansas), and points in paint (52 for BYU (36 in the second half); 20 for Arkansas). BYU had 14 total players play.

The second game was an easier game against Southern Virginia University on Wednesday, November 19, 2014. It was at home in Provo with a win and final score of 101-48. Hitting the century mark in points, BYU had a great game with holding Southern Virginia to less than 30 points in each half. BYU had 49 points in the first half and 52 in the second. BYU dominated in points in paint (54-16), points off turnovers (35-8), second chance points (20-12), fast break points (24-2), and bench points (66-26). If they can keep up their execution and consistency next week, they should do well in the Maui Invitational in Hawaii.

I feel that with their performance in both games and an overall 3-0 record so far, they are on their way to having a really good season.

For your information some short comments on women's basketball are at the bottom of this post for you women's fans.

As I mentioned earlier, BYU will be playing starting on Monday, November 24, 2014, in Lahaina, Hawaii in the EA SPORTS Maui Invitational. They will start off at 9:30 PM MST against #16 San Diego State on ESPN2 which will be a good challenge for them. From that they will either play Pittsburgh or Chaminade at an unknown time Tuesday on ESPN or ESPN2. Their last game in Hawaii will be on Wednesday against an unknown team as of for now. Then BYU goes back home to Provo on Saturday, November 29, 2014, to play Eastern Kentucky at 7:00 PM MST on BYUtv.

Here are some stats:
University of Arkansas-Little Rock
Points: Chase Fischer with 19 (4-7 on three-pointers); Tyler Haws with 18; Anson Winder with 9; Nate Austin with 8 (4-4 on total field goals); Luke Worthington with 7
Rebounds (47 total rebounds; 34 defensive): Nate Austin with 11 (9 defensive); Kyle Collinsworth with 8 (5 defensive); Anson Winder with 5 defensive rebounds
Asissts: Kyle Collinsworth with 6; Tyler Haws with 5; Skyler Halford with 3
Steals: Tyler Haws and Nate Austin each with 2

Southern Virginia University
Points: Jake Toolson with 15; Isaac Neilson with 13; Tyler Haws with 13; Luke Worthington with 12; Chase Fischer, Dalton Nixon, and Anson Winder each with 10
Rebounds (51 total rebounds): Jake Toolson with 7 defensive rebounds; Isaac Neilson with 7 (5 offensive); Frank Bartley IV with 6 defensive rebounds
Assists: Frank Bartley IV with 7; Jake Toolson with 4; Chase Fischer with 3;
Blocks: Anson Winder and Frank Bartley IV each with 2; Josh Sharp with 1
Steals: Jake Toolson, Isaac Neilson, and Frank Bartley IV each with 4; Anson Winder and Luke Worthington each with 2

For the BYU Women's Basketball team their first game (Game #1) was on November 14, 2014, against South Dakota State in South Dakota. It was tough loss of 65-75. They lost again (Game #2) this last Wednesday, November 19, 2014, at home against CSUN (California State University, Northridge) with a final score of 54-63. The fought hard on both but weren't able to pull out the wins. Some top players for Game #1 were Morgan Bailey (25 points, 8 rebounds), Ashley Garfield (6 points, 8 rebounds), and Makenzi Morrison (11 points). Some top players for Game #2 were Morgan Bailey (22 points), Ashley Garfield (7 rebounds), and Lexi Eaton (8 points).
Next Few Games:
Nevada ... Saturday, November 22, 2014 (tonight) ... 7:30 PM MST ... BYUtv
[These next three games are part of the Tom Weston Invitational in Laie, Hawaii]
Butler ... Wednesday, November 26, 2014 ... 6:00 PM MST
BYU-Hawaii ... Thursday, November 27, 2014 ... 4:00 PM MST
Oregon State ... Saturday, November 29, 2014 ... 4:00 PM MST

Day 22 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for leaders...those who have leadership skills and are ready to lead others to a unified goal. There are many individuals I can think of: BYU quarterback Taysom Hill in how he can instill confidence in his team even when he's off the field; the prophet of the LDS church (my church), President Monson, who is a leader who counsels and guides us as we struggle with different things in our everyday lives; and lastly, the BYU football head coach, Bronco Mendenhall, who not only strives to help his team get wins but is also a great spiritual leader. I am grateful for these leadership examples in my life. And these are just a few examples of many more.

Day 21 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today (really yesterday since this is a day late) I am grateful for my mom. She is a family history guru and loves working with the cub scouts. She is a great example to me of dedication and motherly love. I remember many nights when I needed to talk with someone. I was very shy, but I always felt comfortable with talking to my mom. She would help me a lot with that, and she still does. Thank you for being my mom.

Day 20 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for Microsoft Excel...a Microsoft Office program. I love how great of a tool it is in doing calculations, tables of calculations, plots, and much more. It is useful with things I do for school and also at home.

Day 19 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for a cell phone. A cell phone is a device through which we can easily communicate with our family and friends through calling and/or texting. Landline phones are great for that too, but I appreciate cell phones even more since you can carry them anywhere and use them in most places. Nevertheless, no matter what phone you use, we should thank Heavenly Father for devices to communicate with our family and friends with.

Day 18 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for my brother and his wife who live in Utah. They are always fun to spend time with, and they are a great support to his and her family.

BYU Wins vs. UNLV

BYU gets another win after playing UNLV tonight (November 15, 2014) at home in Provo with a final score of 42-23. They now have a record of 6-4, and they received and accepted an invitation to the Miami Beach Bowl in December. That will make it 10 bowls in a row for BYU with a 6-3 records for the last 9 bowls. If you missed the game, you can watch it on BYUtv's website: http://www.byutv.org/.

The win came with a great offensive performance and a not-so-good performance by the defense and special teams. The defense was inconsistent in their execution; they had great drives and they had not-so-great drives. Special teams weren't able to tackle the returners fast enough sometimes, and they gave up two fumbles because they couldn't catch the punts. The semi-good thing was that those were the only two turnovers by BYU; the offense didn't commit any. The offense had great drives with good passes and rushes. They had a total of 592 yards (almost 600!) with the passing having about 50 more yardage than the rushing. They had higher averages on passing and rushing compared to UNLV, and they did it in less time than UNLV used. The defense also had positive aspects of their game. 3 sacks, 9 passes broken up, an interception (and almost another one) were some of the highlights of their performance. The top players of the game for me were Christian Stewart (who was the player of the game), Paul Lasike, Mitch Mathews, Jordan Leslie, Colby Pearson, Bronson Kaufusi, and Kai Nacua (for their stats, look below). The only injury that occured was Colby Pearson (WR). As he made a catch that got BYU a big first down, he got injured (the injury is unknown as far as I know; the injury was sad for me because he is from my hometown and high school).

So overall it was a good performance and win against a now 2-9 UNLV team. The defense and special teams has some execution problems to fix, but otherwise they are ready for their next game on Saturday.

With the goal of raising their current record to 7-4 next week, they are playing Savannah State (a Division I-AA team) on Saturday, November 22, 2014 in Provo, Utah at 1:00 PM MST. The game will be broadcast at that time on BYUtv. The usual pre- and post-game shows will also be on BYUtv. After that game, their last regular season one will be a week after that one in California against the University of California team.

Here are some stats from the game:
PASSING/RECEIVING (325 total yards; 3 touchdowns; 18.1 average receiving yards)
Christian Stewart (QB): 18 completions for 32 attempts (56.25%); 3 TOUCHDOWNS; longest pass was 48 yards; 0 interceptions; 2 sacks; 10.2 yards per average attempt
Mitch Mathews (WR): 120 yards with 20.0 average; longest catch was 48 yards; 1 TOUCHDOWN
Jordan Leslie (WR): 68 yards with 13.6 average; longest catch was 35 yards
Terenn Houk (WR): 38 yards with 19.0 average; longest catch was 22 yards
Colby Pearson (WR): 1 catch for 34 yards
Paul Lasike (RB): 1 catch for 26 yards; 1 TOUCHDOWN
Devin Mahina (TE): 1 catch for 15 yards; 1 TOUCHDOWN
Other players with catches: Ross Apo (WR; 13-yard catch) and Mitchell Juergens (WR; 11-yard catch)

RUSHING (267 net (299 total) yards; 3 touchdowns)
Paul Lasike (RB): 70 net yards with 8.8 average; longest run was 39 yards; 2 TOUCHDOWNS
Nate Carter (RB): 55 net yards with 7.9 average; longest run was 31 yards
Adam Hine (RB): 45 net yards with 5.6 average; longest run was 25 yards
Christian Stewart (QB): 38 net yards (18 lost) with 6.3 average; longest run was 25 yards
Jordan Leslie (WR): 33 net yards with 16.5 average; longest run was 30 yards; 1 TOUCHDOWN
Algernon Brown (RB): 32 net yards with 5.3 average; longest run was 25 yards
Other players with rushes: Trey Dye (WR; -2 net yards)

PUNTING
Scott Arellano (P): longest punt was 58 yards; 3 of 7 punts inside the 20-yard line; average punt yardage was 41.0

DEFENSIVE (3 sacks; 1 interception; 9 passes broken up; 5 tackles for loss for 30 yards; 70 total tackles)
Bronson Kaufusi (LB): 9 total (8 solo) tackles; 2 SACKS; 3 tackles for loss for 21 yards
Kai Nacua (DB): 5 total (4 solo) tackles; 1 INTERCEPTION and returned it for 32 yards (he almost had a second); 1 pass broken up; 1 tackle for loss for 1 yard
Dallin Leavitt (DB): 5 total (4 solo) tackles
Zac Stout (LB): 5 total (3 solo) tackles
Manoa Pikula (LB): 5 total (3 solo) tackles
Jordan Preator (DB): 4 total (4 solo) tackles; 3 passes broken up
Skye PoVey (DB): 4 total (3 solo) tackles; 1 pass broken up
Jherremya Leuta-Douyere (DB): 4 total (3 solo) tackles
Teu Kautai (LB): 3 total (3 solo) tackles
Travis Tuiloma (DL): 3 total (3 solo) tackles

Robertson Daniel (DB): 2 total (2 solo) tackles; 2 passes broken up

Graham Rowley (DL): 1 tackle for loss for 8 yards; 1 SACK

Players with QB hits: Michael Alisa (LB; 1 QB hit) and Logan Taele (DL; 1 QB hit)

Other players with passes broken up: Logan Taele (DL) and Remington Peck (DL) each with 1

Day 17 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for gloves and coats. They keep you warm when it is 32 degrees Fahrenheit or below outside, and I'm grateful to whoever invented them.

Day 16 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for prayer. Because of prayer I can find comfort, guidance, peace, and love from my Heavenly Father. I know that God answers prayers every day, and He will never leave those who seek him alone.

BYU Men's BB Wins vs. Long Beach State

Since BYU's win yesterday was so intense, I decided to write about it today in it's own post.

BYU yesterday, Friday, November 14, 2014, won in men's basketball in Provo against Long Beach State 95-90. It was a very closely fought game with each team shooting well. 5 BYU players had 10 points or more with their top scorer, Haws, ending with 21. Haws probably could have gotten more, bu Long Beach's two-man defense on Haws for a lot of the game stopped him from doing that. Other players like Halford and Fischer stepped up to the plate and helped BYU get the win. I feel BYU could do better on defense, but I do also have to say that Long Beach State had a really good offense. And BYU still did good on defense...just not enough to keep Long Beach State from staying up with them. If BYU can improve on their defense some more, they will be a stronger well-rounded team than they already are. 

BYU's next two games will be this next Tuesday (Arkansas-Little Rock; 7:30 PM MST) and Wednesday (Southern Virginia; 7:00 PM MST) (November 18th & 19th) and will both be broadcasted on BYUtv. The Arkansas-LR game will be the first game of the EA Sports Maui Invitational (the rest of those games will be played in a little over a week from now in Hawaii).

Here are top stats:

Top Scorers

Tyler Haws with 21 points; Skyler Halford with 18 points (with best field goal and 3-pointer percentage); Chase Fischer with 17 points; Anson Winder with 12 points; Isaac Neilson with 10 points

Top in Rebounds

Nate Austin with 9 (6 defensive); Anson Winder with 6 (6 defensive); Tyler Haws & Chase Fischer both with 3 each (all were defensive)

Top in Assists

Skyler Halford with 7; Chase Fischer with 5

Blocks/Steals

Tyler Haws with 1 block & 3 steals; Nate Austin with 2 blocks

I will do a post probably next weekend or something like that for the women's team. That one will include a quick commentary on their game yesterday in which they lost a close game 75-65 against South Dakota State.

Day 15 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for my son's snow boots. Because he has them, he can enjoy being out in the snow more. Even though he slips sometimes as he tries to get accustomed to walking on it, he still thoroughly enjoys playing out there. He especially loves it when I make a snowball and throw it.

Day 14 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for pine trees. I know that sounds like a random thing to be grateful for, but I truly am. I love how pine trees stay green all year long. Living up here in Idaho, I have seen lots of pine trees in the winter, and it's always cool to have some green midst all the white.

Day 13 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for a my son. This morning he dumped out the dirty white clothes and was trying to fold some. He just wanted to help :) That's one thing I love about him. He tries to help with something when what he's trying to do isn't what that thing needs at the time. He has his moments when he's causing trouble or what not, but he also many times where he is adorable. I love my son, and I am extremely grateful that Heavenly Father has blessed my wife and I with him. We are also grateful for the blessing of having another son next year :)

Day 12 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for my wife. She is a loving individual who supports me even in my low points. She is a great mother to our son and future son. She is a spiritually-strong individual who is always striving to do what she knows is right. She helps me become a better person, and I love her immensely for that. I hope that I can always provide for her needs, support her in her goals, and treat her with the same respect she treats me with. I love you, sweetheart! Thank you.

Day 11 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for all of my friends and family who serve in a branch of the military. They sacrifice much to do that, and I am proud of them. I fully support what they do. I also give my thanks to all veterans today who served to fight for our country.

Veteran's Day 2014

So for this year I wanted to post a video of a wonderful song, "Who are the Brave?", which was composed by Joseph M. Martin and sung in this video by the men in the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. It is a very moving song that reminds us who we need to remember on Veteran's Day. I hope y'all enjoy it as much as I did.

I personally honor all those who fought in the many past wars. Many sacrifices were made so that we remain free. For example, if we had lost World War II, who knows what Hitler would've done with the nations of this world. Those who fought in that and many other wars knew who they were fighting for. They were fighting for us and our freedom. In a book of scripture from my church, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, called the Book of Mormon, a great leader back in 73-72 B.C. wrote something we should all remember. "And it came to pass that he rent his coat; and he took a piece thereof, and wrote upon it--In memory of our God, our religion, and freedom, and our peace, our wives, and our children..." (Alma 46:12, The Book of Mormon). These are things that soldiers today and veteran fight and fought for.

Let us remember those who sacrificed and fought for our freedom and liberty...for protection of freedom of religion and protection of our families.

Below is a half-hour video by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir. It was something they performed on Veteran's Day in 2012. It includes the song above plus other patriotic ones. If y'all have time, I suggest watching it too.

BYU Exhibition Basketball

The exhibition (pre-season) games for BYU men's and women's basketball finished this last Saturday, November 8, 2014. The BYU women's basketball team lost their first one and won their second one, and the BYU men's basketball team won both. All four games were at BYU.

Here is a quick summary of the stuff below. The stuff below is in a lot more detail.

---> So the men's team had two good exhibition games with a lot of contribution from many players in both wins. Tyler Haws and Chase Fischer were the two high-scorers, respectively. The men's team dominated in overall bench points, off-turnovers points, and fast break points. The women's team had a tough but close loss for their first game, and then they dominated their second one. They had many players who contributed and had overall a great pre-season like the men's team.

Here is the details (men's first and then women's):
The men's team first played Colorado School of Mines (a team of engineers playing basketball basically) on Saturday, November 1, 2014 and won 82-64. BYU had great contribution from all of the guys who played. They dominated in about all of the aspects of the game. One neat statistic from the game was that BYU's bench players (those who weren't initially starting the game in the first 5 players) scored 37 points compared to Colorado who only scored 18. BYU after getting offensive rebounds scored 12 points for a 2nd chance compared to Colorado who had 0, and BYU had 14 fast break points compared to Colorado's 2.

Here are the top players and their stats (S = Starter):
(S) Tyler Haws: 29 total points, 4-4 free throws, 12-19 total field goals, 4 offensive rebounds
(S) Chase Fischer: 13 total points, 5 assists, 2 turnovers, 4 defensive rebounds
(S) Anson Winder: 1-2 on three-pointers, 2 turnovers (2 steals)
Ryan Andrus: 2 defensive and 1 offensive rebounds
Jake Toolson: 12 total points, 5-11 total field goals, 3 defensive rebounds
Skyler Halford: 5 total points, 2-3 total field goals, 7 assists, 2 steals
Frank Bartley IV: 4 total points, 2-3 total field goals, 3 turnovers
Dalton Nixon: 10 total points, 3-5 total field goals, 2-2 on three-pointers, 3 defensive rebounds, 3 blocks
Isaac Neilson: 9 defensive rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocks, 2 steals

The men's team then played Seattle Pacific on Saturday, November 8, 2014 and won 75-44. It was another great game with contribution from all players who played. They dominated again in bench points, and they also dominated in points off turnovers with 34 points compared to Seattle with 7. At half time, the game was close with BYU ahead 30-40, but in the second half, BYU pulled ahead even more with only allowing Seattle 14 points.

Top players and stats:
(S) Chase Fischer: 21 total points, 9-13 total field goals, 4 assists, 2 steals, 2-5 on three-pointers
(S) Tyler Haws: 15 total points, 7-11 total field goals, 1-1 on three-pointers, 4 steals
(S) Kyle Collinsworth: 3 defensive rebounds, 4 assists, 2 turnovers
Jordan Ellis: 4 defensive rebounds
Anson Winder: 11 total points, 3 total rebounds, 5-9 total field goals, 3 assists, 2 steals
Skyler Halford: 3 assists, 2 steals
Dalton Nixon: 6 defensive rebounds, 2 blocks
Isaac Neilson: 2 offensive and 2 defensive rebounds, 1 steal
Corbin Kaufusi: 2 offensive and 6 defensive rebounds, 3 blocks, 1 steal

The women's team lost a closely-fought game on November 1 against Westminster 54-59. The top players for that game were: Lexi Eaton with 17 total points, Kylie Maeda with 12 total points, Morgan Bailey with 10 total points, 9 total (6 defensive) rebounds, & 4 steals, Ashley Garfield with 7 total (4 defensive, 3 offensive) rebounds, 4 assists, 3 blocks, & 3 steals, Cassie Broadhead with 7 total points, & 2 blocks.

The women's team won their last exhibition game on November 8 against Fort Lewis College 79-43 with a good blowout game. This game had a great spread of contribution from a lot of players At half-time, BYU was leading 41-18, and then in the second half, they scored another 38 points compared to Fort Lewis (25 points). The top players for that game were: Lexi Eaton with 14 total points & 2 steals, Ashley Garfield with 4 defensive rebounds, Makenzi Morrison with 2 defensive and 2 offensive rebounds, & 4 assists, Morgan Bailey with 3 steals, Kylie Maeda with 5 assists, Maddy Ziering-Smith with 11 points, Savannah Irwin with 4 turnovers, Micaelee Orton with 9 total (5 defensive and 4 offensive) rebounds, & 3 turnovers, Amanda Wayment with 6 total (4 defensive) rebounds

Day 10 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for a this blog and blogging in general. I find it to be a way to release my thoughts and interests and share them with anyone who wants to read them. It's a way I can relax. Plus, a blog can be a great way to share with others pictures, etc... of things you do or what your family does. If any you of need some channel like this, I challenge ya to start a blog. You don't have to feel pressured to post every day or anything like that. Just do what you want, and I think it will help you.

Preparation - Drop by Drop

little side note: I've decided to get rid of the numbering of my life insight posts

This talk is from the General Women's Session of last month's general conference for the LDS Church.

Prepared in a Manner That Never Had Been Known
by Linda K. Burton (Relief Society General President)

"...'personal worthiness is an essential requirement to enjoy the blessings of the temple. ...Worthy character is best forged from a life of consistent, correct choices centered in the teachings of the Master.' I love the word consistent. To be consistent is to be steady, constant, and dependable. What a great description of the principle of worthiness!"

What I took away from this talk
There is one thing that hit home for me. It is that preparation is not one, big instance. It takes drop by drop in order to spiritually prepare. Sister Burton specifically talked about spiritually preparing to enter the temple. The blessings we can receive in the temple is a spiritual feast. In order to be spiritually prepared for that, there are many things of obedience we can do like scripture study, prayer, and attending our church meetings. She also mentions many more. Another thing she said that we need to make sure of is that our home (house or apartment) is a place where the spirit can dwell. I loved this talk. It helped remind me what it is I need to improve on in my own life like being more consistent in my daily scripture study and being more sincere with my prayers. I challenge y'all to read this talk and find the things you can improve on in order to be more spiritually prepared.

In conclusion, here is a quote...

"Elder Russell M. Nelson taught, 'As temples are prepared for the people, the people need to prepare themselves for the temple.'"

Day 9 - Thanksgiving 2014

I'm thankful for my wife's parents, brothers, and sisters (and their families). We have a lot of fun with them when we get together. Our son's cousins love playing with him when they are together, and there is huge support for each other in my wife's family. Thank you, y'all, for being the amazing people you are.

Day 8 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for my brother and wife who live in Idaho Falls! We had the opportunity to spend time with them today and loved it. They have a sweet spirit in their home, and it's always great to go visit them. We love y'all!

Expecting a Second

My wife and I found out that we are expecting our second son, and he is due early next year. We are excited to have another child in our life. Our first son certainly does things that upsets us, but we still love him immensely. I want to share with y'all that even though there are challenges with having children, it is completely worth it. They bring a certain happiness, love, and energy into the home that otherwise would not be present.

Pins from Pinterest! #24 [Pumpkin meets Cheesecake]

http://www.pinterest.com/pin/553450241682017551/

This sounds like a delicious idea for this month. Pumpkin and cheesecake always go together well for me in a dessert!

Day 7 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for college football. It is source of entertainment for me that helps me relax even though I get really excited when my BYU team is winning. It is more exciting for me than any other sport. Let's go Cougars!

Day 6 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for my Grandma and Granddad Stewart. They are always welcoming me and my family every time we go to visit them at their home. I'm grateful to them for the times they made the trip from their home up to Idaho to support my brothers, sisters, and me. Thank you, Grandma and Granddad!

Day 5 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for my son's balls. They always make him happy...especially when we play ball with him. He loves it when we throw them around the apartment and he runs after them.

Day 4 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for books. Reading them is a relaxing way to escape our lives and delve into a fictional world for an amount of time. I think that if you spend at least 20 minutes a day reading a good, wholesome book, your life will be less stressful.

Day 3 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for a working car. Our 2001 Ford Escape has had its problems in the past and still does have some, but it nevertheless continues to perform and get us where we need and want to go whether that be to the store, to church, to visit family, or to go on a fun family outing. I'm thankful to God for blessing us with a functioning car.

Day 2 - Thanksgiving 2014

Today I am grateful for moisture. If we didn't have rain and/or snow, drought would be everywhere, and we would have lots of problems. I implore everyone to pray for those who are experiencing drought like people in California and other places.

BYU Wins @ Middle Tennessee State!

With a much-improved defense and decent offense, BYU went to Tennessee and beat Middle Tennessee State 27-7 today, Saturday, November 1, 2014. BYU now has a 5-4 record with four games left in the season against UNLV, Savannah State, and California. They just need one more win to be eligible for the Miami Beach Bowl in Florida this December (which they already have a contract to go to if they get six wins).

Great things happened for all aspects of the team. For passing/receiving, quarterback Christian Stewart had NO interceptions and performed well in leading the offense. 8 out of the 10 players with receiving yards had an average of 10 or higher. For rushing, four out of the five BYU running backs contributed to the total offensive performance. Even Nate Carter (the fifth-team running back) gave a good showing with his five runs during the last few minutes of the game with an average of 4.8 yards. There is great depth there. The defensive performed well with their sacks, interceptions, and ratio of solo tackles to total tackles. The defense has improved a lot compared to last week versus Boise State and hopefully this win propels them forward to another one in two weeks against UNLV. The BYU punter, Scott Arellano, broke the longest BYU punt record for 81 yards as the wind helped propel the ball forward. The previous record was 80 yards.

With an efficient offense and an improved defense that only held Middle Tennessee to 119 passing yards with only one big play of 22 yards for a touchdown (which is much better compared to last week against Boise State), I believe BYU is ready to win at least two or their last three regular season games. There were still penalities, but one positive thing about that is that there were no special teams penalties like there usually is. Also, Jamaal Williams (running back) sadly strained his knee (due to being tackled at the knees) and is out again. We don't know for how long yet. We will continue to see if they can be consistent in execution and achieve more team wins like today. After today's game, an 8-4 final record for the regular season doesn't seem as unreachable as it once did! Let's go Cougars!!!

Their next game will be in two weeks (they have a bye week this next week) on Saturday, November 15, 2014, at home in Provo against UNLV (University of Nevada, Las Vegas) at 5:00 PM MST on ESPNU. It is a black-out game where the players will be wearing their special black jerseys. The usual pre- and post-game shows will be on BYUtv.

Here are some stats:
PASSING/RECEIVING (316 total yards, 2 touchdowns, 11.3 average receiving yards)
Christian Stewart (QB): 28 completions for 45 attempts (62.2%), 2 TOUCHDOWNS, longest pass was 37 yards, threw to 10 different players, 0 interceptions, 3 sacks
Mitch Mathews (WR): 6 catches for 60 yards (10.0 average), longest pass was 14 yards
Devin Mahina (TE): 4 catches for 40 yards (10.0 average), longest pass was 22 yards
Paul Lasike (RB): 4 catches for 22 yards, longest pass was 14 yards
Colby Pearson (WR): 3 catches for 45 yards (15.0 average), 1 TOUCHDOWN, longest pass was 37 yards (touchdown pass)
Jordan Leslie (WR): 3 catches for 33 yards (11.0 average), 1 TOUCHDOWN, longest pass was 19 yards (touchdown pass)
Terenn Houk (WR): 2 catches for 28 yards (14.0 average), longest pass was 16 yards
Jamaal Williams (RB): 2 catches for 24 yards (12.0 average), longest pass was 28 yards
Mitchell Juergens (WR): 2 catches for 12 yards, longest pass was 8 yards
Kurt Henderson (WR): 1 catch for 33 yards (about 1 yard short of a touchdown)
Keanu Nelson (WR): 1 catch for 19 yards

RUSHING (128 total net yards (20 lost), 2 touchdowns)
Jamaal Williams (RB): 49 net yards (1 yard lost) with 3.1 average, longest rush was 9 yards
Paul Lasike (RB): 28 total yards with 5.6 average, 1 TOUCHDOWN, longest rush was 13 yards
Adam Hine (RB): 25 total yards with 8.3 average, longest rush was 18 yards
Nate Carter (RB): 24 total yards with 4.8 average
Mitchell Juergens (WR): 5 total yards
Christian Stewart (QB): 5 net yards (11 lost due to sacks) with 0.7 average, 1 TOUCHDOWN, longest rush was 8 yards

PUNTING
Scott Arellano (P): longest punt was 81 yards, 5 out of 7 punts were within the 20-yard line, average punt yardage was 46.3 yards

DEFENSE (54 total (52 solo) tackles, 4 sacks, 2 interceptions, 2 forced fumbles, 7 tackles for loss for 35 yards)
Skye PoVey (DB): 8 total (7 solo) tackles, 1 tackle for loss for 2 yards
Zac Stout (LB): 7 total (7 solo) tackles
Bronson Kafusi (LB): 6 total (5 solo) tackles, 1 SACK, 1 tackle for loss for 6 yards
Dallin Leavitt (DB): 5 total (5 solo) tackles
Teu Kautai (LB): 3 total (3 solo) tackles, 3 SACKS, 3 tackles for loss for 23 yards, 1 FORCED FUMBLE
Logan Taele (DL): 2 total (2 solo) tackles, 1 quarterback hit
Tomasi Laulile (DL): 2 total (2 solo) tackles, 1 tackle for loss for 3 yards, 1 quarterback hit, 1 INTERCEPTION
Jordan Preator (DB): 2 total (2 solo) tackles, 2 passes broken up, 1 FORCED FUMBLE, 1 INTERCEPTION
Harvey Jackson (DB): 2 total (2 solo) tackles, 1 tackle for loss for 1 yard
Other players with passes broken up: Robertson Daniel (DB) and Michael Alisa (LB) each with one

Day 1 - Thanksgiving 2014

A new month of November has finally arrived! I hope y'all had a wonderful Halloween yesterday!

Today I am thankful for my Grandpa Cottam. I have many great memories of coming to visit his home in Arizona. He and my late Grandma always showed us much love when we went to visit. One of my most recent memories is when one night, he and I sat down, and he pulled up some family history sites on his computer...places he remembered from his youth. It was great to be able to bond with my grandpa. It is also fun to be able to sit down and watch football with my grandpa.

I wanted to let you know, Grandpa, that I love you, and I think you are an amazing man. Thank you also, Grandpa, for coming to my wedding and my mission homecoming.