Tradition ROCKS.
Let me just tell you.
I love it so much. Doing the same thing over and over because it brings happy times, feelings, and memories. My favorite Christmas traditions:
1. Our tree. It's always real. We go cut it down from a farm in Alpine, and every year it gets bigger. This year it's 15 ft tall and about 6 or 7 ft wide. And I'm not even exaggerating about that.
2. Our ornaments. Each year, my Grammy gives us money to buy an ornament for ourselves. Her rules are that it must be either glass or sparkly. That way, the lights in the tree reflect in the glass and/or sparkles, and the whole tree just glows. So we now all have our own box of ornaments just for us. And I can take it with me when I get married and have my own tree. My parents also get us an ornament each year, and it usually has something to do with an event that's happened in the past year, so we remember each year through ornaments. For example, I have a King Tut from the year I studied Egypt in school. A cell phone from the year I asked for one, but wasn't old enough. A present from the year I had my Sweet Sixteen. This year, I got two little red [love]birds (I like to think they're love birds. They're kinda cute), as the one I chose, and from my parents a pizza (my first job this year - Pizza Pie Cafe), and this Thespian ... thing. You know the two faces - smiling and frowning? Yeah. Each side is a different face. It's rather creepy, honestly, and I don't want to be caught alone with this ornament in a dark room. But I really do love it. :)
3. Present tags. No boring "To: Anna From: Mom & Dad" at our house! No, each nametag has a different name, something to do with us. "To: #2 From: #4 & #8" (I'm second child, my parents 4th and 8th). "To: Elizabeth From: Marguerite & Conley (middle names). I used the rapper names Garrett and I joke about for his card - "To: G-Money From: Hot BisKIT" (we'll be famous someday). This lovely tradition pretty much makes everything more entertaining, especially when my mom runs out of ideas and writes nametags late a night. "To: American Studies Awesome Student!" Haha. I laughed. Just put "awesome" at the beginning of the name, and it would have made more sense. But it was great. This year, one of my nametags said "To: Scope for Imagination From: Blog impaired" and "To: This Lovely Notebook From: Pen & Pencil". I felt cool about it.
4. Christmas Eve meal. We get in touch with our German heritage for this night. Chicken noodle soup (no, that's not really German, but it's homemade so it's delicious), and the rest is breads, cheeses, meats, crackers, sausages, etc.
5. Hiding the pickle. Classic - my parents hide our pickle ornament (glass and sparkly, fear not), then the kids all come and look for it. Whoever finds it first gets an extra present. And just so you know, I totally found it this year. And got a free drink at Roxberry.
6. Christmas night Pajamas. 'Nuff said? I think so.
7. Christmas night. All the kids sleep upstairs in one room, then descend the stairs together in the morning (shielding our eyes, of course, except Trina who always peeks... which has now become tradition... cheater), wake our parents, walk out youngest to oldest. My dad has now mentioned in recent years that we don't have to follow that rule they made when we were young. We can go out and begin with Santa gifts by ourselves. We all retaliated. "No!!" "Tradition!" "Are you INSANE?!" We do it out of spite, almost. To show we really love it.
8. Christmas breakfast. Mini sausages, english muffins, clementines, orange juice.
Ahhhh. Doesn't tradition bring you such comfort?!
What are your favorite traditions?
P.S. I received a RECORD PLAYER from Santa.
How. Magical.
12.25.2010
12.20.2010
it's beginning to FEEL like christmas
Agenda for December 20th, 2010:
1. Wake up late. 10ish?
2. Groggily flop downstairs, join two younger siblings and watch 3 episodes of Man vs. Wild. Go Bear Grylls!
3. Eat a healthy breakfast (first one I've had time for in weeks).
4. Take a long shower.
5. Straighten hair for first time in weeks.
6. Go to bank (surprise! Pizza Pie Cafe called - I left my last paycheck there. Hooray for Christmas money!)
7. Go shopping at Target with Garrett and Cami.
8. Teo meets up with us for more shopping.
9. Run into friends at Target.
10. Go pick out annual tree ornaments in Provo at Hobby Lobby
11. Have driving skills insulted by siblings.
12. Pick up Parmesan cheese for mom.
13. Return home to delicious meal made by the best mom ever. Curry? Love it.
14. Read scriptures with family.
15. Deliver bags of chocolate popcorn to neighborhood families, caroling at the door.
16. Family prayer full of giggles.
17. Sit and look at 15 ft. tall Christmas tree.
18. Relax and enjoy the holidays.
.....check.
1. Wake up late. 10ish?
2. Groggily flop downstairs, join two younger siblings and watch 3 episodes of Man vs. Wild. Go Bear Grylls!
3. Eat a healthy breakfast (first one I've had time for in weeks).
4. Take a long shower.
5. Straighten hair for first time in weeks.
6. Go to bank (surprise! Pizza Pie Cafe called - I left my last paycheck there. Hooray for Christmas money!)
7. Go shopping at Target with Garrett and Cami.
8. Teo meets up with us for more shopping.
9. Run into friends at Target.
10. Go pick out annual tree ornaments in Provo at Hobby Lobby
11. Have driving skills insulted by siblings.
12. Pick up Parmesan cheese for mom.
13. Return home to delicious meal made by the best mom ever. Curry? Love it.
14. Read scriptures with family.
15. Deliver bags of chocolate popcorn to neighborhood families, caroling at the door.
16. Family prayer full of giggles.
17. Sit and look at 15 ft. tall Christmas tree.
18. Relax and enjoy the holidays.
.....check.
12.15.2010
tomorrow...
+PLUS+
=EQUALS=
Kids in the Cold
...and that is where I will be tomorrow. So come to Lone Peak between 5 and 12 and donate money to Make-A-Wish! We're not going home until we make $10,000 - so we need your help!
AAaaannndd....
You can enter your world famous CHILI in the Chili Cook-off! How fun does that sound?! I know - super fun, right?? $10 entry fee for a chili, and bring money to donate to your favorite recipe!
Really though, we'd appreciate all the help we can get. Come have fun and raise money for a good cause. :)
Oh and by the way...
Once the break starts, I suspect my posts will become more entertaining. As of now, I'm trying to contain my excitement for the break so I can focus on Gold Rush. But in three days time....
OH BABY.
12.06.2010
blessed
So today I again realized how blessed I am to have the gospel in my life.
This weekend was rough - I was sick and tired, and seemed to have a million things to do, all of which seemed important. I was gone Saturday from 9 am - 8:30 pm, and physically and mentally exhausted. This all led up to me having a little meltdown in the car with my mom. Sunday my cold reached it's worst, and I stayed home from church. It was suggested that I have get a priesthood blessing from my father. And that's where the gospel part comes in.
That blessing helped, it really did. I was able to receive comfort and counsel from it in ways that nothing else and no one else could have done. I'm immensely grateful for an earthly father who I know loves me, and who holds and exercises his priesthood regularly.
Tonight my Grandma, feeling sick and nervous for her return home tomorrow, also asked for a blessing. Then my two sisters, who needed help and comfort as well, also asked for one.
And again tonight during family prayer, I felt this amazing peace. It wasn't anything big - there was no burning in my chest, no light from above, no angelic choirs. But I was content. Completely and totally at peace.
Even with all the craziness still going around in my life. The busy schedule that always comes with December, I felt good. The feeling was incredibly comforting, and I tried to imagine my life without the gospel in it - I couldn't. It brings me so much happiness in ways I often overlook. I take this church for granted sometimes - living in Utah and growing up a member, it's easy to.
But I hope that those around me know how grateful I am for this gospel and the truth it holds. I hope they know I have a testimony of our Savior and that he atoned for our sins and died for us so that we can again return to live with our Heavenly Father. I hope they know that I have a testimony of the Book of Mormon, and all the principles it teaches. I know Joseph Smith saw the Father and the Son on a glorious spring day in 1820, and I'm so grateful for the faith and initiative he showed. I know President Monson is a prophet today, and leads and guides our church with help from God. The priesthood is real - it is a power that influences my life and home daily, and I love it.
I love this church so much - I just hope you know that.
If you're ever feeling down, stressed, overwhelmed, sick, or just need a little extra boost, count your blessings. Turn to the Lord. If you are in the position to, ask for a priesthood blessing of comfort.
The Lord always knows what we need.
This weekend was rough - I was sick and tired, and seemed to have a million things to do, all of which seemed important. I was gone Saturday from 9 am - 8:30 pm, and physically and mentally exhausted. This all led up to me having a little meltdown in the car with my mom. Sunday my cold reached it's worst, and I stayed home from church. It was suggested that I have get a priesthood blessing from my father. And that's where the gospel part comes in.
That blessing helped, it really did. I was able to receive comfort and counsel from it in ways that nothing else and no one else could have done. I'm immensely grateful for an earthly father who I know loves me, and who holds and exercises his priesthood regularly.
Tonight my Grandma, feeling sick and nervous for her return home tomorrow, also asked for a blessing. Then my two sisters, who needed help and comfort as well, also asked for one.
And again tonight during family prayer, I felt this amazing peace. It wasn't anything big - there was no burning in my chest, no light from above, no angelic choirs. But I was content. Completely and totally at peace.
Even with all the craziness still going around in my life. The busy schedule that always comes with December, I felt good. The feeling was incredibly comforting, and I tried to imagine my life without the gospel in it - I couldn't. It brings me so much happiness in ways I often overlook. I take this church for granted sometimes - living in Utah and growing up a member, it's easy to.
But I hope that those around me know how grateful I am for this gospel and the truth it holds. I hope they know I have a testimony of our Savior and that he atoned for our sins and died for us so that we can again return to live with our Heavenly Father. I hope they know that I have a testimony of the Book of Mormon, and all the principles it teaches. I know Joseph Smith saw the Father and the Son on a glorious spring day in 1820, and I'm so grateful for the faith and initiative he showed. I know President Monson is a prophet today, and leads and guides our church with help from God. The priesthood is real - it is a power that influences my life and home daily, and I love it.
I love this church so much - I just hope you know that.
If you're ever feeling down, stressed, overwhelmed, sick, or just need a little extra boost, count your blessings. Turn to the Lord. If you are in the position to, ask for a priesthood blessing of comfort.
The Lord always knows what we need.
12.03.2010
11.26.2010
thank you, world.
Thanksgiving was wonderful. Nothing beats my family. The stats:
a dinner of 43 people
1 large table
19 pies
5 turkeys
played on a set of musical bells - 2 rounds of joy to the world
passed on from my late aunt - 3 new purses
2 new earring sets
new cds - 4 of them
countless blessings
And now, somethings I am grateful for that rarely get mentioned:
toothpaste
pajamas
socks
chapstick
face wash
sheet music
classic christmas songs
black and white movies
harry potter
inside jokes
pillows*
hot cars in the summer
changing seasons
rain
pizza pie cafe's buffalo wing thing pizza
ice cream
microwaves
stair railings
disneyland
colors
airborne
dark chocolate
pies
the ability to communicate - talking
new friends
old friends
understanding parents that trust me
dan, who just painted our house
books
plays
jane austen
anne shirley
my Savior
The end.
P.S. Wouldn't it be cool if we just shortened "the end" to "thend"? That's it, I'm starting a new trend. Thend.
*Think about this - what if no one had ever invented a pillow? What would we be using?!
a dinner of 43 people
1 large table
19 pies
5 turkeys
played on a set of musical bells - 2 rounds of joy to the world
passed on from my late aunt - 3 new purses
2 new earring sets
new cds - 4 of them
countless blessings
And now, somethings I am grateful for that rarely get mentioned:
toothpaste
pajamas
socks
chapstick
face wash
sheet music
classic christmas songs
black and white movies
harry potter
inside jokes
pillows*
hot cars in the summer
changing seasons
rain
pizza pie cafe's buffalo wing thing pizza
ice cream
microwaves
stair railings
disneyland
colors
airborne
dark chocolate
pies
the ability to communicate - talking
new friends
old friends
understanding parents that trust me
dan, who just painted our house
books
plays
jane austen
anne shirley
my Savior
The end.
P.S. Wouldn't it be cool if we just shortened "the end" to "thend"? That's it, I'm starting a new trend. Thend.
*Think about this - what if no one had ever invented a pillow? What would we be using?!
11.21.2010
the lovely news
There is a girl.
Her name is Caroline Grace.
She is delightful and lovely.
...Seriously though. If the word "lovely" was ever personified in a person, it'd be Carlie. She is sweet and kind and loving and funny and fun and a joy to be around. She makes me smile quite often. We crump together. And we laugh together.
Caroline appreciates old things - photographs, hats, dresses, memories, music. She is class.
One day we came up with a perfectly lovely idea.
Here it is:
{the lovely idea}
We hope you enjoy it.
Her name is Caroline Grace.
She is delightful and lovely.
...Seriously though. If the word "lovely" was ever personified in a person, it'd be Carlie. She is sweet and kind and loving and funny and fun and a joy to be around. She makes me smile quite often. We crump together. And we laugh together.
Caroline appreciates old things - photographs, hats, dresses, memories, music. She is class.
One day we came up with a perfectly lovely idea.
Here it is:
{the lovely idea}
We hope you enjoy it.
ridikulus
...Uh. Ridikulusly PHENOMENAL!
That is my review for Harry Potter. See me for more details. To sum it up, I have never left a Harry movie more satisfied. It was everything I hoped and dreamed of.
But, alas. I am getting carried away. I could go on and on about my feelings for this movie, but I don't have the time. I don't have any time! Heavens, today I was at the school for 10 1/2 hours. *sigh* Can you say tired? I can.
Music Man is going great. It went downhill for a few days, our lowest point being when Winthrop threw up off stage, when Jessica, Melody, Brandon, and Sarah we're all sick, and when Jeffrey missed his Wells Fargo cue and the storyline kinda became confusing because of it. All in one night. BUT, it's been better since then. Nearly everyone is no longer sick, and we're getting more funny.
Tonight my family came. Immediate, friends, cousins, etc. It was lovely. I could hear them laughing the whole time, which just made me perform my best (which, by the way, tonight was)! It's amazing what a good audience does for a cast. My advice is this - if you ever go see a show, LAUGH when it's funny. Because then, I promise you, it'll just be even MORE funny. And eventually you and the actors will get this enjoyable circle of laughing and funny responses going. :) We give back what you give us.
My hair looks like a lion right now, just so you know.
Thank goodness tomorrow (Oh goodness, today! It's past midnight!) is Sunday! This means:
...If you didn't get H, that's okay. It's kind of an inside joke.
So... I was definitely going to include this awesome news in this post, but I decided it definitely deserves it's OWN post. Therefore, be expecting something EPIC soon. Key word: lovely.
In other news, I'm definitely very behind on homework. Tomorrow I will be writing a Hamlet essay. I'm planning on receiving a 2 for my grade, since I'm sure my exhaustion will translate to incoherence on the paper: "Hamlet is awesome. He is smart. He is not actually crazy. Ophelia is crazy though - for reals. She should be. She has no choice. Lotsa people being mean: e.g. "Get thee to a nunnery!" Polonius is a fool. Fortinbras is foil. Gertrude is complex. Claudius is eeeevil."
I think Mrs. Woolsey will be impressed, don't you?
That is my review for Harry Potter. See me for more details. To sum it up, I have never left a Harry movie more satisfied. It was everything I hoped and dreamed of.
But, alas. I am getting carried away. I could go on and on about my feelings for this movie, but I don't have the time. I don't have any time! Heavens, today I was at the school for 10 1/2 hours. *sigh* Can you say tired? I can.
Music Man is going great. It went downhill for a few days, our lowest point being when Winthrop threw up off stage, when Jessica, Melody, Brandon, and Sarah we're all sick, and when Jeffrey missed his Wells Fargo cue and the storyline kinda became confusing because of it. All in one night. BUT, it's been better since then. Nearly everyone is no longer sick, and we're getting more funny.
Tonight my family came. Immediate, friends, cousins, etc. It was lovely. I could hear them laughing the whole time, which just made me perform my best (which, by the way, tonight was)! It's amazing what a good audience does for a cast. My advice is this - if you ever go see a show, LAUGH when it's funny. Because then, I promise you, it'll just be even MORE funny. And eventually you and the actors will get this enjoyable circle of laughing and funny responses going. :) We give back what you give us.
My hair looks like a lion right now, just so you know.
Thank goodness tomorrow (Oh goodness, today! It's past midnight!) is Sunday! This means:
A) No hair ratting! Hooray!!
B) Church!
C.1) No stage make-up!
C.2) No hair ratting!
D.1) No mic tape that can only be removed with Goo-gone
that stings because it's not meant for your skin!
D.2) No hair ratting!
E) No being at the school!
F) No hair ratting!
G) No ugly stubborn Iowan facial expressions (I'm starting
to worry my face will never be the same)
H) No Bananas in the sky!
B) Church!
C.1) No stage make-up!
C.2) No hair ratting!
D.1) No mic tape that can only be removed with Goo-gone
that stings because it's not meant for your skin!
D.2) No hair ratting!
E) No being at the school!
F) No hair ratting!
G) No ugly stubborn Iowan facial expressions (I'm starting
to worry my face will never be the same)
H) No Bananas in the sky!
...If you didn't get H, that's okay. It's kind of an inside joke.
So... I was definitely going to include this awesome news in this post, but I decided it definitely deserves it's OWN post. Therefore, be expecting something EPIC soon. Key word: lovely.
In other news, I'm definitely very behind on homework. Tomorrow I will be writing a Hamlet essay. I'm planning on receiving a 2 for my grade, since I'm sure my exhaustion will translate to incoherence on the paper: "Hamlet is awesome. He is smart. He is not actually crazy. Ophelia is crazy though - for reals. She should be. She has no choice. Lotsa people being mean: e.g. "Get thee to a nunnery!" Polonius is a fool. Fortinbras is foil. Gertrude is complex. Claudius is eeeevil."
I think Mrs. Woolsey will be impressed, don't you?
11.17.2010
a tidbit
Tidbit. Is that even a word?
I'm not quite sure.
Anyway, here's a couple uh... tidbits for you (was that the correct use of that word? I don't know. Hey! This is my blog. If Dr. Seuss and J.K. Rowling can do it, I can too).
Item #1. Today I had a funny conversation with Christian. Here's the great line we ended up with (I thought about sharing this with facebook, but decided some people *coughmyfathercough* might be offended. So I'm sharing it on my super secret blog):
"The image of the Lewis' dog being run over by a car brings new meaning the the phrase 'Hit the road, Jack.'"
...Well, I think it's funny. ;)
But really, I love my dog. I'm not saying I want him to get run over or anything.
Item #2. Music Man! It's going great. 4 shows in 48 hours, so I'm a little exhausted (and I'm about to head off to another one now), but satisfied. It's really come together since my last stress on here about being behind. If you're planning on coming, great! I'll see you soon. If not... stop reading my blog, you pretend friend!!
Kidding. You reading my blog makes me feel cool.
Item #3. Speaking of Music Man, we've been listening to this delightful song in the dressing room. You should probably go listen to it right now. Since the link is there and everything. And it doesn't even have a video to go with it. So you can keep facebook stalking or whatever else you're doing on that little tab you have up on the webpage, and just listen. Great, huh?
Have a lovely day!!
I'm not quite sure.
Anyway, here's a couple uh... tidbits for you (was that the correct use of that word? I don't know. Hey! This is my blog. If Dr. Seuss and J.K. Rowling can do it, I can too).
Item #1. Today I had a funny conversation with Christian. Here's the great line we ended up with (I thought about sharing this with facebook, but decided some people *coughmyfathercough* might be offended. So I'm sharing it on my super secret blog):
"The image of the Lewis' dog being run over by a car brings new meaning the the phrase 'Hit the road, Jack.'"
...Well, I think it's funny. ;)
But really, I love my dog. I'm not saying I want him to get run over or anything.
Item #2. Music Man! It's going great. 4 shows in 48 hours, so I'm a little exhausted (and I'm about to head off to another one now), but satisfied. It's really come together since my last stress on here about being behind. If you're planning on coming, great! I'll see you soon. If not... stop reading my blog, you pretend friend!!
Kidding. You reading my blog makes me feel cool.
Item #3. Speaking of Music Man, we've been listening to this delightful song in the dressing room. You should probably go listen to it right now. Since the link is there and everything. And it doesn't even have a video to go with it. So you can keep facebook stalking or whatever else you're doing on that little tab you have up on the webpage, and just listen. Great, huh?
Have a lovely day!!
11.09.2010
baby, it's cold outside!
Today, on my way home from rehearsal, I stopped at Dear Lizzie.
One of the most beautiful stores on the planet.
I stopped because 1) I had to meet a friend at another nearby store and was early, and 2) it looked so delightful.
I swear, every time I drive by and those windows are all lit up, and I can see the chandeliers hanging all over - it calls my name!
Yes. The store. It calls.
"Anna! Anna!" (it sounds like a classy lady from the 40s) "Why don't you stop by?"
Psh. Who cares that everything in there is ridiculously overpriced?? I only LOOK at things (most of the time).
And usually, I have this No Christmas Music Until After Thanksgiving Policy. Today, however, when I walked into Dear Lizzie and heard the Christmas music, I gave in. That's it, folks. I'm not fighting it this year. Next time I'm in the car, I'm turning to Kosy 106.5. I'm gonna sing it at the top of my lungs (and potentially cause a car accident). I'm secretly putting on Bing when I'm home. I'm humming "White Christmas" and "Baby, It's Cold Outside" under my breath.
Dear Lizzie does me good. The cold outside? Though it brings with it signs of a delicious winter and Christmas (*sigh*) and the holiday season in general, it's.... well, cold! I'm frozen right through. But the happiness that fills me in that store sends the chills away!
And now? I'm in my pajamas and slippers, sitting by the fireplace.
This feeling is a good one.
One of the most beautiful stores on the planet.
I stopped because 1) I had to meet a friend at another nearby store and was early, and 2) it looked so delightful.
I swear, every time I drive by and those windows are all lit up, and I can see the chandeliers hanging all over - it calls my name!
Yes. The store. It calls.
"Anna! Anna!" (it sounds like a classy lady from the 40s) "Why don't you stop by?"
Psh. Who cares that everything in there is ridiculously overpriced?? I only LOOK at things (most of the time).
And usually, I have this No Christmas Music Until After Thanksgiving Policy. Today, however, when I walked into Dear Lizzie and heard the Christmas music, I gave in. That's it, folks. I'm not fighting it this year. Next time I'm in the car, I'm turning to Kosy 106.5. I'm gonna sing it at the top of my lungs (and potentially cause a car accident). I'm secretly putting on Bing when I'm home. I'm humming "White Christmas" and "Baby, It's Cold Outside" under my breath.
Dear Lizzie does me good. The cold outside? Though it brings with it signs of a delicious winter and Christmas (*sigh*) and the holiday season in general, it's.... well, cold! I'm frozen right through. But the happiness that fills me in that store sends the chills away!
And now? I'm in my pajamas and slippers, sitting by the fireplace.
This feeling is a good one.
11.04.2010
update?
Yay for my somewhat reflective posts of late!
Maybe you like those more than posts about my actual life (all...*cough* 5 of you), but maybe not. Really, I don't know. But I think it's time I told you about some pretty stellar things currently going on in my life. I like my life. :) Bear with me.
1. Halloween. How awesome was it? I hope you enjoyed yourself. :) I, for one, never get tired of clever costumes. Here's some Halloween cheer to enjoy:
Me, as Professor Trelawney.
Me, and Kelsey. Kels, Jess, and Syd were: Miss. Take, Miss. Fortune, and Miss. Hap. HA.
Matt Hansen - Team JakeWard (No need to choose!). Half his body even glittered.
Sarah, Christian, and Mel. Polgamists.
Caroline as Rosie the Riveter.
Me, later, for the dance - an old woman! Please, appreciate the pouch if you will.
2. Ingrid Michaelson. Possibly you've heard of her? If not, I suggest you find out who she is. I, personally, am quite the fan. I've adored her and her music for years now, and yay! I finally was able to make it to one of her shows. October 26th, 2010. In the Venue (which, in and of itself makes you feel cool to be there). Let it be remembered.
I'll now attempt to post a video of the BEST part of her show. She's using a looping pedal - that's just her voice on repeat again and again in the background. For reasons unknown to me, I didn't record the whole thing. So enjoy this little snippet- though it doesn't do it justice. I can testify that it was truly UNREAL.
3. Music Man! We open in less that a week and a half. Scary? I think so. Especially considering we still have scenes to block.
...We're dreadfully behind. As in, DREADFULLY. But good news. Mr. Smith said we went from being a -3 yesterday (it was a train wreck, to say the least), to a 2 today! I don't really know what scale we're being judged on here, but it makes me feel good to say it was a scale of 1 to 3.
It's exciting! I love being a part of a show. It's why I repeatedly do it, despite the stress and sleep deprivation and drama (ha) and STRESS. It's worth it to me. And we're getting to the part where rehearsals are really fun. Where I constantly have songs running through my head (you should have heard me the other day mixing up every single word of "Trouble"). Where I get to be my silly character and pose like a Grecian Urn. Where I can show my awesome stubborn chip-on-the-shoulder Iowan attitude as Alma Hix.
...Yes. That's the name of my character.
Have a lovely day. Exciting things (hopefully) to come.
Sincerely,
Anna Elizabeth
P.S. 13 days. [insert major freak out here]
Maybe you like those more than posts about my actual life (all...*cough* 5 of you), but maybe not. Really, I don't know. But I think it's time I told you about some pretty stellar things currently going on in my life. I like my life. :) Bear with me.
1. Halloween. How awesome was it? I hope you enjoyed yourself. :) I, for one, never get tired of clever costumes. Here's some Halloween cheer to enjoy:
Me, as Professor Trelawney.
Me, and Kelsey. Kels, Jess, and Syd were: Miss. Take, Miss. Fortune, and Miss. Hap. HA.
Matt Hansen - Team JakeWard (No need to choose!). Half his body even glittered.
Sarah, Christian, and Mel. Polgamists.
Caroline as Rosie the Riveter.
Me, later, for the dance - an old woman! Please, appreciate the pouch if you will.
2. Ingrid Michaelson. Possibly you've heard of her? If not, I suggest you find out who she is. I, personally, am quite the fan. I've adored her and her music for years now, and yay! I finally was able to make it to one of her shows. October 26th, 2010. In the Venue (which, in and of itself makes you feel cool to be there). Let it be remembered.
I'll now attempt to post a video of the BEST part of her show. She's using a looping pedal - that's just her voice on repeat again and again in the background. For reasons unknown to me, I didn't record the whole thing. So enjoy this little snippet- though it doesn't do it justice. I can testify that it was truly UNREAL.
3. Music Man! We open in less that a week and a half. Scary? I think so. Especially considering we still have scenes to block.
...We're dreadfully behind. As in, DREADFULLY. But good news. Mr. Smith said we went from being a -3 yesterday (it was a train wreck, to say the least), to a 2 today! I don't really know what scale we're being judged on here, but it makes me feel good to say it was a scale of 1 to 3.
It's exciting! I love being a part of a show. It's why I repeatedly do it, despite the stress and sleep deprivation and drama (ha) and STRESS. It's worth it to me. And we're getting to the part where rehearsals are really fun. Where I constantly have songs running through my head (you should have heard me the other day mixing up every single word of "Trouble"). Where I get to be my silly character and pose like a Grecian Urn. Where I can show my awesome stubborn chip-on-the-shoulder Iowan attitude as Alma Hix.
...Yes. That's the name of my character.
Have a lovely day. Exciting things (hopefully) to come.
Sincerely,
Anna Elizabeth
P.S. 13 days. [insert major freak out here]
11.01.2010
in my dreams
Someday, I think I'll be this guy:
So. I'm kind of a creeper sometimes.
...I've been spending the last while on a blog by these girls I don't even know. They're friends of friends, who go to another school. You know!- Those people. You know their names and know funny things about them because YOUR friends know them, but you don't really share any personal relationship with them at all? Yeah, them.
Okay. So I met ONE of the girls one time at Zupas.
But that's besides the point (and a rather hilarious story in and of itself).
The point is that these two girls at a neighboring rival high school have this SWEET blog. And their lives are filled with the awesome spontaneity I wish I possessed! They write sticky notes of encouragement and put them in bathrooms, libraries, etc. They make pretty pictures full of quotes and pass them out to strangers (in a socially acceptable way, nothing weird).
And I was like, "Hey! I should be friends with them!" and "Hey! I should live more in the moment like them!" So tomorrow, I think I'm gonna sticky-note it up with Caroline Hansen.
And possibly do some other really exciting things with Caroline. [more to come on this later, i'm sure]
The end.
So. I'm kind of a creeper sometimes.
...I've been spending the last while on a blog by these girls I don't even know. They're friends of friends, who go to another school. You know!- Those people. You know their names and know funny things about them because YOUR friends know them, but you don't really share any personal relationship with them at all? Yeah, them.
Okay. So I met ONE of the girls one time at Zupas.
But that's besides the point (and a rather hilarious story in and of itself).
The point is that these two girls at a neighboring rival high school have this SWEET blog. And their lives are filled with the awesome spontaneity I wish I possessed! They write sticky notes of encouragement and put them in bathrooms, libraries, etc. They make pretty pictures full of quotes and pass them out to strangers (in a socially acceptable way, nothing weird).
And I was like, "Hey! I should be friends with them!" and "Hey! I should live more in the moment like them!" So tomorrow, I think I'm gonna sticky-note it up with Caroline Hansen.
And possibly do some other really exciting things with Caroline. [more to come on this later, i'm sure]
The end.
10.29.2010
change
It can be frustrating.
Good. Bad. Sad. Annoying. Delightful. Heart wrenching. Joyful. [Etc.]
Generally though, I think it tends to be on the bad side. At least, when we hear the word "change" we immediately associate it with a bad connotation. Why? Because we want consistency in our lives, right?
"The most constant thing is change." - President Monson
Pretty smart guy, I think. This sentence seems ironic - change? Well, wouldn't that be the exact opposite of constant? Paradox, my friends.
Change really IS the only thing we can depend on in this life. Because no matter what, time will keep going, the day will turn to night, people will move on, your house will sell, you'll get married, etc. etc. So why do we shy away from change? Life IS change.
But change is different. Change is not comfortable. Change can be hard. Change takes us out of that wonderful bubble, that glorious circle of safety we've been rooted in for who knows how long - a week? A year? Our whole lives? No matter how much we say we accept change and like it, it's always going to be an adjustment. It might be hard. We might be scared.
Change is frightening.
We'd also be nowhere without it.
So I'm grateful for change. Because I'm grateful for progression. I grateful for the things I learn from every experience I have. Comfort does nothing for me.
Change?
Well, it changes me.
Good. Bad. Sad. Annoying. Delightful. Heart wrenching. Joyful. [Etc.]
Generally though, I think it tends to be on the bad side. At least, when we hear the word "change" we immediately associate it with a bad connotation. Why? Because we want consistency in our lives, right?
"The most constant thing is change." - President Monson
Pretty smart guy, I think. This sentence seems ironic - change? Well, wouldn't that be the exact opposite of constant? Paradox, my friends.
Change really IS the only thing we can depend on in this life. Because no matter what, time will keep going, the day will turn to night, people will move on, your house will sell, you'll get married, etc. etc. So why do we shy away from change? Life IS change.
But change is different. Change is not comfortable. Change can be hard. Change takes us out of that wonderful bubble, that glorious circle of safety we've been rooted in for who knows how long - a week? A year? Our whole lives? No matter how much we say we accept change and like it, it's always going to be an adjustment. It might be hard. We might be scared.
Change is frightening.
We'd also be nowhere without it.
So I'm grateful for change. Because I'm grateful for progression. I grateful for the things I learn from every experience I have. Comfort does nothing for me.
Change?
Well, it changes me.
10.25.2010
smart = fun
So in my AP Lit class we've now had a few discussions on the awesomeness of smart people. Confused? Let me explain.
Basically, life is more enjoyable when you're intelligent. I'm so grateful I have super duper hilarious friends. Friends that are CLEVER and use WIT - not just stupid jokes that any old bloke can rattle off. My wonderfully BRILLIANT AP Lit teacher (more stories to come, I'm sure... she's full of them) was explaining how things are better with intellect. For example, you understand irony and puns, not just sarcasm. You also tend to understand more historical and pop culture references (just for the record, Lorelai and Rory Gilmore from ABC Family's Gilmore Girls are the epitome of this smart/fun-ness, so go watch them).
Let me give you an example. The other day I was sitting in Prostart (Foods) and my table and I were having a discussion about meat and the likes. So I say, "Go read The Jungle by Upton Sinclair!" Then I start laughing because it's pretty funny. Everyone on my table just stares. They're not stupid, really. It just... they aren't on the AP track (which is what my teacher, Mrs. Woolsey was trying to point out- AP students get that kind of stuff [though now that I think about it, one guy at that table was actually in AP US History with me last year...hmmm]).
So after this happens I text my friend Kendra who's over in yearbook (see Friend-Who-Knows-You-In-Your-Silliness) and I tell her the joke and she thinks it's pretty funny. And that's when I say to myself, "I'm so glad my friends are [insert awesome adjective here]."
The end.
Basically, life is more enjoyable when you're intelligent. I'm so grateful I have super duper hilarious friends. Friends that are CLEVER and use WIT - not just stupid jokes that any old bloke can rattle off. My wonderfully BRILLIANT AP Lit teacher (more stories to come, I'm sure... she's full of them) was explaining how things are better with intellect. For example, you understand irony and puns, not just sarcasm. You also tend to understand more historical and pop culture references (just for the record, Lorelai and Rory Gilmore from ABC Family's Gilmore Girls are the epitome of this smart/fun-ness, so go watch them).
Let me give you an example. The other day I was sitting in Prostart (Foods) and my table and I were having a discussion about meat and the likes. So I say, "Go read The Jungle by Upton Sinclair!" Then I start laughing because it's pretty funny. Everyone on my table just stares. They're not stupid, really. It just... they aren't on the AP track (which is what my teacher, Mrs. Woolsey was trying to point out- AP students get that kind of stuff [though now that I think about it, one guy at that table was actually in AP US History with me last year...hmmm]).
So after this happens I text my friend Kendra who's over in yearbook (see Friend-Who-Knows-You-In-Your-Silliness) and I tell her the joke and she thinks it's pretty funny. And that's when I say to myself, "I'm so glad my friends are [insert awesome adjective here]."
The end.
10.17.2010
tick and tock
I like this:
And this:
And I definitely like this:
If I had all the time in the world (which, unfortunately, I don't... it always escapes me when most needed), I would probably go dance in the rain. And I'd make fancy cupcakes that look as delicious as that one. And I'd get dressed up and make a boy smell a flower or something.
But hey, that's the problem, right? Where does this time go? There's always a million things I feel like I should do. I even wrote a list on the mirror in my bedroom about a month ago - just a few things that need doing. And I've been able to cross off one since then. Just one.
So when I DON'T have time, my mind goes insane and all these things fly around in there just begging to have some of my time. Like really, I should probably hang those pictures in my room that have been sitting around for over a year. And honestly, I should finish the birthday present for my best friend who's birthday was in April.
April, my friends. As in 6 months ago.
And then suddenly I'll find myself with an hour here and there to do something, but I don't accomplish what I should. I typically end up on facebook or (cough cough) blog stalking. Which is fun, and I don't believe these things are of the devil or anything... but seriously? They just suck away time.
It's my senior year. I really should enjoy my time here with my family all I can before I move out. And it's Autumn. I should go on a slow walk in a scarf and a jacket, and just take in all the beautiful leaves, the lovely Fall air. I could carve a pumpkin. Play the piano. Paint a picture. Do my homework (nah). Apply for college. Write a letter. Go on a picnic.
*sigh*
...Time. I don't think I'll ever catch it.
And this:
And I definitely like this:
If I had all the time in the world (which, unfortunately, I don't... it always escapes me when most needed), I would probably go dance in the rain. And I'd make fancy cupcakes that look as delicious as that one. And I'd get dressed up and make a boy smell a flower or something.
But hey, that's the problem, right? Where does this time go? There's always a million things I feel like I should do. I even wrote a list on the mirror in my bedroom about a month ago - just a few things that need doing. And I've been able to cross off one since then. Just one.
So when I DON'T have time, my mind goes insane and all these things fly around in there just begging to have some of my time. Like really, I should probably hang those pictures in my room that have been sitting around for over a year. And honestly, I should finish the birthday present for my best friend who's birthday was in April.
April, my friends. As in 6 months ago.
And then suddenly I'll find myself with an hour here and there to do something, but I don't accomplish what I should. I typically end up on facebook or (cough cough) blog stalking. Which is fun, and I don't believe these things are of the devil or anything... but seriously? They just suck away time.
It's my senior year. I really should enjoy my time here with my family all I can before I move out. And it's Autumn. I should go on a slow walk in a scarf and a jacket, and just take in all the beautiful leaves, the lovely Fall air. I could carve a pumpkin. Play the piano. Paint a picture. Do my homework (nah). Apply for college. Write a letter. Go on a picnic.
*sigh*
...Time. I don't think I'll ever catch it.
10.10.2010
10.05.2010
some thoughts
I feel the need to write a blog post. I do not, however, have a specific purpose or theme in this post. So bare with me. My thoughts may be a little scatter-brained.
Here's this great drawing I found:
Isn't it cute? Yes, I think so.
I have a testimony of Patriarchal Blessings! Go read yours - right now. Because it'll probably (definitely) tell you something you need to know. I read it again last night (it had been too long since the last time), and a couple things jumped out at me. Things only I need to hear. It's your own personal scripture, folks!
And relating to that (in a very roundabout way you probably won't understand), here is some architecture to enjoy!
I love art history. Like really. The name of this particular French castle is Chenonceau Chateau and resides in the Loire Valley. Fun history - during WWI, it was used as a French hospital. And during WWII, that river the castle is built over was the border from country in German possession to that in French possession. People would cross through the castle all the time and reach safety. Cool, huh?
I think so.
My last random thought: the piano. How awesome is it?!
You know, when I first started learning to play I was like every other child. I threw fits and flopped and fumbled and became frustrated like you wouldn't believe. I honestly have no idea when my whole mentality changed. One day I just realized how much I adore this beautiful instrument. It's truly amazing. I love the sounds it creates - the exquisite lullabies, the dramatic chords. So much versatility in one box. One lovely, beautiful, magical box. I love sitting down at the bench on a Saturday afternoon, and having Trina join me as we sing Broadway or Church music. Hymns. I love playing those on the rare Sunday mornings I'm ready for Church early. I love that when I'm in a bad mood, I can stomp into our beloved piano room and begin playing with too much enthusiasm. Pounding out songs is therapy like you wouldn't believe. I'm not that great on the piano. Like I said, I haven't always loved it, and that stopped me from reaching my full potential on that instrument. I'll never be a Samantha Bunderson.
But you know what?
I'm fine with that. Because the piano can still be mine. In those moments when I sit down at the keys and my fingers travel back and forth across the black and white, that piano is just for me. A bit a heaven, you could say.
...So I guess that's it. Also (last thing for real this time), Fall is here. Officially. It's been drizzling rain on and off and I love it.
Over and out.
Here's this great drawing I found:
Isn't it cute? Yes, I think so.
I have a testimony of Patriarchal Blessings! Go read yours - right now. Because it'll probably (definitely) tell you something you need to know. I read it again last night (it had been too long since the last time), and a couple things jumped out at me. Things only I need to hear. It's your own personal scripture, folks!
And relating to that (in a very roundabout way you probably won't understand), here is some architecture to enjoy!
I love art history. Like really. The name of this particular French castle is Chenonceau Chateau and resides in the Loire Valley. Fun history - during WWI, it was used as a French hospital. And during WWII, that river the castle is built over was the border from country in German possession to that in French possession. People would cross through the castle all the time and reach safety. Cool, huh?
I think so.
My last random thought: the piano. How awesome is it?!
You know, when I first started learning to play I was like every other child. I threw fits and flopped and fumbled and became frustrated like you wouldn't believe. I honestly have no idea when my whole mentality changed. One day I just realized how much I adore this beautiful instrument. It's truly amazing. I love the sounds it creates - the exquisite lullabies, the dramatic chords. So much versatility in one box. One lovely, beautiful, magical box. I love sitting down at the bench on a Saturday afternoon, and having Trina join me as we sing Broadway or Church music. Hymns. I love playing those on the rare Sunday mornings I'm ready for Church early. I love that when I'm in a bad mood, I can stomp into our beloved piano room and begin playing with too much enthusiasm. Pounding out songs is therapy like you wouldn't believe. I'm not that great on the piano. Like I said, I haven't always loved it, and that stopped me from reaching my full potential on that instrument. I'll never be a Samantha Bunderson.
But you know what?
I'm fine with that. Because the piano can still be mine. In those moments when I sit down at the keys and my fingers travel back and forth across the black and white, that piano is just for me. A bit a heaven, you could say.
...So I guess that's it. Also (last thing for real this time), Fall is here. Officially. It's been drizzling rain on and off and I love it.
Over and out.
9.29.2010
friends.
I have some amazing friends - let me first start by saying that. And I love them all quite a lot. I'm glad I have such a wonderful group of people surrounding me, and that I have a unique relationship with each one of them. Let us examine some different friend types, shall we?
1. The Kindred Spirit
This is the friend you've known for forever. You feel comfortable telling your deepest darkest secrets to them, laughing with them, being ridiculously silly, crying, yelling, etc... They're pretty much there for you no matter what. Which is good, because if not, they'd probably have been scared off by now.
Specimen A:
Specimen B:
2. The Sister/Brother
Even though you are primarily siblings, you also know you are best friends. Having a bad day? Call them up and rant. Found a good quote to share? Send them a caring text. This person knows you almost as well as you know yourself - your weaknesses, your strengths, your awkward dancing, your most embarrassing moments, your strange accents when sleep deprived... You'll be with them for eternity, which is good.
Specimen A:
3. The I-Used-To-Hate-You Friend
Once upon a time you didn't really like this person. Who knows why. Maybe you had a crush the same person or something. Either way, it's a good thing you both grew up and got past them, because you have a BLAST when you're with this person. You cruise down the street singing "Your Love is My Drug" at the top of your lungs, you giggle like little girls, and you tell each other serious things too.
Specimen A:
4. The Why-In-The-World-Didn't-I-Know-You-Sooner Friend
One day, you suddenly became friends with this person. I don't know, maybe it was fate, because all the sudden you realize how alike you too are. Why in the world have you not been best friends for life?! Beats me. You enjoy spending time with this person, and you find you STILL always relate. You are still in the process of getting to know them better, and you love it. You think the world of them.
Specimen A:
5. The You-Know-Me-In-My-Silliness Friend
Maybe you met in Biology or something. Maybe you both have a strange obsession with Harry Potter. Maybe you have so many inside jokes you've lost track of them all. Maybe you sometimes have strange moments when you seem to read the other one's mind, and somehow just know how to react. Maybe you stalk people in a van. Maybe you take awkward candid photos at football games. Maybe you pass secret notes in your AP Lit class....I don't know, maybe.
Specimen A:
6. The Downright Dependable Friend(s)
These are the friends that you love. You know that on a Friday night, you can call them up and watch a movie. You can say, "Hey! Let's go to a drive-in!" and they're up for it. You can write them funny notes and have inside jokes and go to dances together and sing songs and make faces and laugh and cry and play games and have fun and be serious and simply enjoy the company of those present.
Specimen A:
Specimen B:
Specimen C:
Specimen D:
Specimen E:
Friends? They're the best.
1. The Kindred Spirit
This is the friend you've known for forever. You feel comfortable telling your deepest darkest secrets to them, laughing with them, being ridiculously silly, crying, yelling, etc... They're pretty much there for you no matter what. Which is good, because if not, they'd probably have been scared off by now.
Specimen A:
Specimen B:
2. The Sister/Brother
Even though you are primarily siblings, you also know you are best friends. Having a bad day? Call them up and rant. Found a good quote to share? Send them a caring text. This person knows you almost as well as you know yourself - your weaknesses, your strengths, your awkward dancing, your most embarrassing moments, your strange accents when sleep deprived... You'll be with them for eternity, which is good.
Specimen A:
3. The I-Used-To-Hate-You Friend
Once upon a time you didn't really like this person. Who knows why. Maybe you had a crush the same person or something. Either way, it's a good thing you both grew up and got past them, because you have a BLAST when you're with this person. You cruise down the street singing "Your Love is My Drug" at the top of your lungs, you giggle like little girls, and you tell each other serious things too.
Specimen A:
4. The Why-In-The-World-Didn't-I-Know-You-Sooner Friend
One day, you suddenly became friends with this person. I don't know, maybe it was fate, because all the sudden you realize how alike you too are. Why in the world have you not been best friends for life?! Beats me. You enjoy spending time with this person, and you find you STILL always relate. You are still in the process of getting to know them better, and you love it. You think the world of them.
Specimen A:
5. The You-Know-Me-In-My-Silliness Friend
Maybe you met in Biology or something. Maybe you both have a strange obsession with Harry Potter. Maybe you have so many inside jokes you've lost track of them all. Maybe you sometimes have strange moments when you seem to read the other one's mind, and somehow just know how to react. Maybe you stalk people in a van. Maybe you take awkward candid photos at football games. Maybe you pass secret notes in your AP Lit class....I don't know, maybe.
Specimen A:
6. The Downright Dependable Friend(s)
These are the friends that you love. You know that on a Friday night, you can call them up and watch a movie. You can say, "Hey! Let's go to a drive-in!" and they're up for it. You can write them funny notes and have inside jokes and go to dances together and sing songs and make faces and laugh and cry and play games and have fun and be serious and simply enjoy the company of those present.
Specimen A:
Specimen B:
Specimen C:
Specimen D:
Specimen E:
Friends? They're the best.
9.27.2010
a wave
One day as I drove to a friend's house, I passed an assisted living center. An old couple was out sitting on the front bench. We exchanged hearty waves when I drove to my friend's house, and also when I came back. It pretty much made my day.
There's constant construction going on around my house. It's nearly impossible for anyone in the area to drive anywhere without being assaulted by orange cones and loud machinery and loads of dust. There's often construction workers who's job is merely to hold a sign that says "slow". What a monotonous task! Sometimes, I like to wave at them when I pass. Maybe it makes them happier, or maybe it has no affect on their life. I'm not quite sure. Either way it gets me in a better mood.
Today, as I was driving home from school, I drove past a lady assigned to the crosswalk. It was hot outside, and I'm sure she was exhausted. As I passed, she gave me a wonderful smile and a big wave. I was surprised, but pleased, so I waved back enthusiastically. As I passed, I could see that in my rear view mirror she waved at every car that drove past her. And let me tell you, it was a pretty busy road.
What's my point with all this talk of old people and construction workers and crosswalk ladies?
I have no idea.
Maybe it's just that a wave can make anyone's day! Do it.
There's constant construction going on around my house. It's nearly impossible for anyone in the area to drive anywhere without being assaulted by orange cones and loud machinery and loads of dust. There's often construction workers who's job is merely to hold a sign that says "slow". What a monotonous task! Sometimes, I like to wave at them when I pass. Maybe it makes them happier, or maybe it has no affect on their life. I'm not quite sure. Either way it gets me in a better mood.
Today, as I was driving home from school, I drove past a lady assigned to the crosswalk. It was hot outside, and I'm sure she was exhausted. As I passed, she gave me a wonderful smile and a big wave. I was surprised, but pleased, so I waved back enthusiastically. As I passed, I could see that in my rear view mirror she waved at every car that drove past her. And let me tell you, it was a pretty busy road.
What's my point with all this talk of old people and construction workers and crosswalk ladies?
I have no idea.
Maybe it's just that a wave can make anyone's day! Do it.
9.21.2010
win.
So maybe you've noticed how I now have that AWESOME banner as my header?
If you haven't, I suggest you look at it right now.
Because really, folks - let's be honest. It's pretty unreal.
I have this incredibly talented cousin named Rosie. She's pretty much amazing. And for months now I've been stalking her family blog (it may or may not have been without her knowledge). Partly because she writes wonderful posts about her life as a young mother with her husband Biff and beautiful daughter Hazel, and I enjoy it so much... and partly because I've been looking on in envy at the lovely header she had designed for their blog.
Well. She wrote a post about how she'd be willing to design banners for others, and I pretty much jumped at the idea. Because for a while now I've been trying to figure out a blog format/design that I'm happy with (maybe you've noticed the blog looks different every time you visit?). FINALLY this phenomenal header has made me a happy person. *sigh*
So please. Appreciate the beauty of my header. You have my full permission to sit and stare, give an "Ooo" or two, and maybe even offer up a sigh. A very special thanks to Rosie Jones, one of the most talented women I know.
You're the best. :)
If you haven't, I suggest you look at it right now.
Because really, folks - let's be honest. It's pretty unreal.
I have this incredibly talented cousin named Rosie. She's pretty much amazing. And for months now I've been stalking her family blog (it may or may not have been without her knowledge). Partly because she writes wonderful posts about her life as a young mother with her husband Biff and beautiful daughter Hazel, and I enjoy it so much... and partly because I've been looking on in envy at the lovely header she had designed for their blog.
Well. She wrote a post about how she'd be willing to design banners for others, and I pretty much jumped at the idea. Because for a while now I've been trying to figure out a blog format/design that I'm happy with (maybe you've noticed the blog looks different every time you visit?). FINALLY this phenomenal header has made me a happy person. *sigh*
So please. Appreciate the beauty of my header. You have my full permission to sit and stare, give an "Ooo" or two, and maybe even offer up a sigh. A very special thanks to Rosie Jones, one of the most talented women I know.
You're the best. :)
9.20.2010
happy thoughts
So I really like my life! Wonder why? It's not rocket science... Let's just take a look at a small 3 or 4 day period and we'll try to figure it out:
-Friday night saw me having a dinner with some of my favorite people. Lone Peak and Hillcrest student council got together and ate Panda - even better.
-I then watched the football game where we KILLED Hillcrest. Go knights - you truly are world class.
-Saturday morning I lounged for quite some time. Spent about an hour wandering the internet with no other purpose than to look at beautiful pictures. (See my link to the website I haunted on the right ---->)
-I got ready for the day and went to pick up one of my BEST friends in the whole world for our Sadie's day date at the SPACE CENTER (awesome Star Trek-like simulation camp).
-At the space center, I received the position of Admiral (top in command), and got to boss everyone around. I really got into it. There was a lot of slamming my fist on the counter and yelling things like "Security?! Are you taking car of this?!!"
-The good news: even though we were captured by the Romulans, we never technically died (though apparently there were 6 chances for us to... one of which was a poisonous animal escaped from the zoology lab of our ship. Why we had a zoology lab on there, I've no idea). So we technically won the mission! For details of our many adventures, see me in person. ;)
-I then got to dress up like Milly Pontipee from Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.
-I picked up my date again (who, yes, was wearing suspenders), and then watched the actual Seven Brides for Seven Brothers movie in a delightful home theater. I pulled out my antique picnic basket, spread out a checkered blanket and matching napkins, and proceeded to eat my Cafe Rio dinner.
-I went to the actual dance, where we danced like it was 1999, got pictures taken, drank homemade root beer, and got illegally hitched for the night.
-My parents definitely chaperoned.
-Church on Sunday!
-My usual Sunday afternoon nap. :)
-Dinner with my sister, cousin, and his friends in attendance. We ate pie.
-The Blindfold game - a classic Lewis family pastime. This round, I definitely kicked a closet door, used my dog as some sort of strange decoy, and watched my favorite cousin make creeper faces while backing into rooms - all in a blindfold. Come play with us sometime! It's fun.
-Mafia.
-Assisted Garrett in studying for his first FRQ in American Studies. Stayed up late but didn't regret it one bit.
-I went to school today! Though at times it was boring (learning about foodborne illnesses in Prostart really started my day off right, let me tell you), I really truly love school. I'm lucky to have a friend in almost every class, and people I can goof off and enjoy the day with (Frummshwumm!). Plus, I love learning! It's part of life. Fascinating, really. See above quote from a certain Anne Shirley.
-On the way home from school, Garret and I began screaming when the road home was blocked off and we forgot to take the detour. We screeched at everything and everyone the rest of the way home. "DETOUR?! ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!!! NO!" We may have scared a man on a motorcycle.
...And THAT's why I love my life.
-Friday night saw me having a dinner with some of my favorite people. Lone Peak and Hillcrest student council got together and ate Panda - even better.
-I then watched the football game where we KILLED Hillcrest. Go knights - you truly are world class.
-Saturday morning I lounged for quite some time. Spent about an hour wandering the internet with no other purpose than to look at beautiful pictures. (See my link to the website I haunted on the right ---->)
-I got ready for the day and went to pick up one of my BEST friends in the whole world for our Sadie's day date at the SPACE CENTER (awesome Star Trek-like simulation camp).
-At the space center, I received the position of Admiral (top in command), and got to boss everyone around. I really got into it. There was a lot of slamming my fist on the counter and yelling things like "Security?! Are you taking car of this?!!"
-The good news: even though we were captured by the Romulans, we never technically died (though apparently there were 6 chances for us to... one of which was a poisonous animal escaped from the zoology lab of our ship. Why we had a zoology lab on there, I've no idea). So we technically won the mission! For details of our many adventures, see me in person. ;)
-I then got to dress up like Milly Pontipee from Seven Brides for Seven Brothers.
-I picked up my date again (who, yes, was wearing suspenders), and then watched the actual Seven Brides for Seven Brothers movie in a delightful home theater. I pulled out my antique picnic basket, spread out a checkered blanket and matching napkins, and proceeded to eat my Cafe Rio dinner.
-I went to the actual dance, where we danced like it was 1999, got pictures taken, drank homemade root beer, and got illegally hitched for the night.
-My parents definitely chaperoned.
-Church on Sunday!
-My usual Sunday afternoon nap. :)
-Dinner with my sister, cousin, and his friends in attendance. We ate pie.
-The Blindfold game - a classic Lewis family pastime. This round, I definitely kicked a closet door, used my dog as some sort of strange decoy, and watched my favorite cousin make creeper faces while backing into rooms - all in a blindfold. Come play with us sometime! It's fun.
-Mafia.
-Assisted Garrett in studying for his first FRQ in American Studies. Stayed up late but didn't regret it one bit.
-I went to school today! Though at times it was boring (learning about foodborne illnesses in Prostart really started my day off right, let me tell you), I really truly love school. I'm lucky to have a friend in almost every class, and people I can goof off and enjoy the day with (Frummshwumm!). Plus, I love learning! It's part of life. Fascinating, really. See above quote from a certain Anne Shirley.
-On the way home from school, Garret and I began screaming when the road home was blocked off and we forgot to take the detour. We screeched at everything and everyone the rest of the way home. "DETOUR?! ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!!! NO!" We may have scared a man on a motorcycle.
...And THAT's why I love my life.
9.15.2010
food critic?
I have to do a project for Prostart - make a book about a career in the hospitality industry. Exciting, eh?
I think so.
Of course, I chose a Food Critic. Because REALLY, folks - you can go eat at fancy restaurants and sample their delicious food, then write about it. And get paid for doing this. Journalism? Eating?! Two things I love doing.
And maybe I'd get to look like this guy.
Do you think you have to pay for the meals yourself?
I think so.
Of course, I chose a Food Critic. Because REALLY, folks - you can go eat at fancy restaurants and sample their delicious food, then write about it. And get paid for doing this. Journalism? Eating?! Two things I love doing.
And maybe I'd get to look like this guy.
Do you think you have to pay for the meals yourself?
9.11.2010
coming our way
Fall is in the air.
I can feel it when I step outside - the crisp feeling in the air.
Do you feel it too?
I feel it in the way I suddenly got one of those winter colds.
Outside the window, our pumpkin vines now have spots of orange.
The sunflowers are dying.
The flip flops are going back in the closet.
I can't stay up late anymore due to school.
BUT.
The leaves will be turning soon.
I get to pull out my darling jackets and coats.
And school is actually fun.
Friday night football games.
Sadie Hawkins.
Homecoming.
I love seasons. After living in Arizona for much of my life, I can't tell you how nice it is to live in a state where the weather changes with the passing months. It's no longer hot, hot, a little less hot, perfect, and then hot again. In Utah I get hot, perfect, windy, cold, brisk, freezing, snowy, warming up, perfect, light breezes, and then the cycle starts over again. I get beautiful flowers and bright green grass. Majestic mountains that are splashed with oranges, reds, and yellows. Snow-capped peaks in the winter. The way the snow looks after a storm when it lands on each branch of every tree. Beautiful sunsets and brilliant thunderstorms.
I realized I don't like it when people start getting sick of a season. I did it for a while: "Eww. More snow? When will it ever end?!" But I realized last year that I'm really grateful for the snow. I'm really grateful for the fact that I get to appreciate these seasons again and again. So what if it snows in May? That just makes my life more exciting.
And that's why I'm alright with saying goodbye to summer.
Yeah, it was unbelievable. The best summer I've ever had. Full of friends and pools and camps and family and late nights and movies and adventures like never before.
...But I think this fall has things in store for me too.
9.05.2010
alfred
Tonight, after a rousing game of Apples to Apples in which Natalie pronounced Leonardo Da Vinci's name as LENARD Da Vinci, my family and I all gathered downstairs and watched two Alfred Hitchcock films. The first was a twenty minute vignette about a mentally unstable young man who thinks he can be a real magician with just a wand and ends up sawing a lady in half. It was called "The Sorcerer's Apprentice". The second was called "The Man Who Knew Too Much" (don't get it confused with the later and more popular movie with the same name, kiddies...). Basically, this guy knows too much, has his daughter kidnapped, is blackmailed, follows the case, breaks into a church that's actually headquarters for the villians, and everything ends up happy (which is quite a novelty for a Hitchcock movie).
Man, did Alfred know suspense.
After my dreary summaries, you may think that was sarcasm. But really, it wasn't. That man knew how to make a horror film (he knew too much, actually... ha ha... subtle reference to previous movie)! He was the first to really MAKE horror films, actually. Nowadays all the scary movies we see are filled with blood, gore, guns, explosions, and creepers. But Alfred's films, they were all psychological.
Ever seen Psycho?
No?! Go watch it. Now.
I'm not a big fan of scary movies. Really, I never watch them if I can help it. I just don't understand what's so exciting about freaking yourself out so much you can't walk upstairs without turning on all the lights. Then when you fall asleep, your imagination takes over and you're haunted by disturbing dreams, even when you know "it was just a movie". Yeah. Well, I'm not all that crazy about that.
But I enjoy classic Hitchcock. Tonight, as the music would swell and the suspense would build, I kept grabbing Trina's leg and squeezing. THAT's the sign of a good scary movie, I think. So go watch Alfred. In fact, come on over. We have 4 discs full of his short movies.
P.S.... That's him.
Man, did Alfred know suspense.
After my dreary summaries, you may think that was sarcasm. But really, it wasn't. That man knew how to make a horror film (he knew too much, actually... ha ha... subtle reference to previous movie)! He was the first to really MAKE horror films, actually. Nowadays all the scary movies we see are filled with blood, gore, guns, explosions, and creepers. But Alfred's films, they were all psychological.
Ever seen Psycho?
No?! Go watch it. Now.
I'm not a big fan of scary movies. Really, I never watch them if I can help it. I just don't understand what's so exciting about freaking yourself out so much you can't walk upstairs without turning on all the lights. Then when you fall asleep, your imagination takes over and you're haunted by disturbing dreams, even when you know "it was just a movie". Yeah. Well, I'm not all that crazy about that.
But I enjoy classic Hitchcock. Tonight, as the music would swell and the suspense would build, I kept grabbing Trina's leg and squeezing. THAT's the sign of a good scary movie, I think. So go watch Alfred. In fact, come on over. We have 4 discs full of his short movies.
P.S.... That's him.
8.30.2010
a mr. mayer
Tomorrow, I go see this guy:
And I'll be accompanied by this guy:
.... I think I'm happy. :)
And I'll be accompanied by this guy:
.... I think I'm happy. :)
8.25.2010
all that needs to be said.
School started today. Senior year.
Right now, I COULD say a lot of things. I could attempt to be witty and most likely bore you with my usual ranting.
But no. I'll just say this:
This is it.
Right now, I COULD say a lot of things. I could attempt to be witty and most likely bore you with my usual ranting.
But no. I'll just say this:
This is it.
8.20.2010
smells
Okay.
I really like smells. Good smells, obviously. I'm not too big a fan of that moldy food smell or whatever.
But GOOD smells? Oh, baby.
I got my hair done today. Somehow, the shampoo Polly uses is about SEVEN times as delicious smelling as the kind I use. I try to remind myself to look at what brand she uses, but of course I always forget. That's a really good smell.
I like natural smells. Rain? Every time there's a rainstorm I go sit on my porch. I love watching everything get soaking wet and I love seeing the leaves on the tree right in front of me all do a sort of tap dance when they get too heavy and full of water - they tip over and the tree looks like it moves. But I also sit on the porch so I can smell that delightful scent. It's a clean smell.
And hey. Grass right after it's been mowed? THAT smells like summer. (I also hope you got that Harry Potter reference)
It's crazy the connection smells have to memories. You know when you get a whiff of something, and all the sudden you're back at your best friend's house at the age of seven watching her mom cook dinner? Or wherever it takes you...
I have this perfume and no matter what, I always reminds me of my 9th grade year. Because I think that was the only perfume I really used that year. You'd think "Japanese Cherry Blossom" would remind me of... I don't know... Japan or something. But no. 9th grade. And all my best friends then.
Does anyone know what kind of detergent my cousins use? Because I swear, it's the most comforting detergent I've ever had the privilege of smelling.
New car? That leather smell? Mmmm.
Certain people have smells. Sometimes it's the perfume or cologne they wear, but often times it's not. And you associate those smells with memories too. So sometimes when I'm around certain people I feel super duper happy. And then let's say some stranger walks past with the same cologne/perfume? Funny.
Books. I'll walk into a book store, and the first thing I do is pick one up and sniff it. Sometimes I get strange looks, and usually anyone I'm with tends to walk about 5 feet in front of me after that. But oh well. It's the new book smell. And in case you didn't know, old books smell quite lovely too. It's a different smell, and it's a good different.
Cinnamon, oranges, mini sausages, pine, english muffins, cloves, hot chocolate.
...Christmas.
That's pretty much all I have to say right now. And yes, that post was all about smells. Please excuse my bizarre subjects.
I really like smells. Good smells, obviously. I'm not too big a fan of that moldy food smell or whatever.
But GOOD smells? Oh, baby.
I got my hair done today. Somehow, the shampoo Polly uses is about SEVEN times as delicious smelling as the kind I use. I try to remind myself to look at what brand she uses, but of course I always forget. That's a really good smell.
I like natural smells. Rain? Every time there's a rainstorm I go sit on my porch. I love watching everything get soaking wet and I love seeing the leaves on the tree right in front of me all do a sort of tap dance when they get too heavy and full of water - they tip over and the tree looks like it moves. But I also sit on the porch so I can smell that delightful scent. It's a clean smell.
And hey. Grass right after it's been mowed? THAT smells like summer. (I also hope you got that Harry Potter reference)
It's crazy the connection smells have to memories. You know when you get a whiff of something, and all the sudden you're back at your best friend's house at the age of seven watching her mom cook dinner? Or wherever it takes you...
I have this perfume and no matter what, I always reminds me of my 9th grade year. Because I think that was the only perfume I really used that year. You'd think "Japanese Cherry Blossom" would remind me of... I don't know... Japan or something. But no. 9th grade. And all my best friends then.
Does anyone know what kind of detergent my cousins use? Because I swear, it's the most comforting detergent I've ever had the privilege of smelling.
New car? That leather smell? Mmmm.
Certain people have smells. Sometimes it's the perfume or cologne they wear, but often times it's not. And you associate those smells with memories too. So sometimes when I'm around certain people I feel super duper happy. And then let's say some stranger walks past with the same cologne/perfume? Funny.
Books. I'll walk into a book store, and the first thing I do is pick one up and sniff it. Sometimes I get strange looks, and usually anyone I'm with tends to walk about 5 feet in front of me after that. But oh well. It's the new book smell. And in case you didn't know, old books smell quite lovely too. It's a different smell, and it's a good different.
Cinnamon, oranges, mini sausages, pine, english muffins, cloves, hot chocolate.
...Christmas.
That's pretty much all I have to say right now. And yes, that post was all about smells. Please excuse my bizarre subjects.
8.15.2010
taking the name
It's Sunday. So... let me just get some spiritual thoughts out there.
Today I had two especially great lessons in church. The first was taught by my dad when he substituted our Sunday School class. A couple things I learned:
1) My dad is a GREAT teacher
2) History combined with the gospel is so fascinating
3) Hezekiah was THE MAN
After that I headed off to Young Women's. Every couple months the Laurels get to attend Relief Society, however, and today was one of those days. We had an amazing lesson on being a covenant people as church members. We talked about all the important covenants we make - things like baptism, the sacrament, and temple covenants. Yeah, we've heard about all of these before. It's not like it's anything new, right?
Well THAT'S what's so great about this gospel. You can have a million lessons on the same subject, but you're never going to learn exactly the same thing. You can read the scriptures or your patriarchal blessing hundreds of thousands of times, and still gain something new from reading the exact same words.
So. We talked about the phrase "taking upon us the name of Christ". The teacher asked us what the really means. And THAT got me thinking.
There's this quote by Ghandi:
Wow. Harsh words, right? Maybe a little hard to hear?
But we NEED to hear it.
How many celebrities, politicians, etc. do you hear say they're Christian, but then looking at their lifestyle, you see so many things wrong with that claim? The word Christian really does contain the name Christ. And doesn't that demand a little more respect?
Apparently, the first time the word Christian was used in reference to church members was after Christ's death, and it was used as a sort of mockery. "Oh, you followers of Christ..." (or whatever they would have said - bear with me for a moment) However, Peter and all the disciples actually accepted the term "Christian" with gladness - they were more than happy to be able to take upon them the name of their leader, friend, and shepherd.
Am I that proud to take upon me His name? Am I WILLING, to quote the sacrament prayers I hear each Sunday? And if I do take upon me Christ's name, do I do it justice? Am I being righteous in my decisions, an example of integrity and kindness, and bearing the burdens of others? Do I lend comfort when needed?
I want to truly be able to be a Christian in every sense of the word. I want to be an example of the Church so nonmembers - so Ghandi - can look at the gospel and say, "Hey. There's a church that is full of actual Christians."
P.S. Go to youtube and type in "Advice from Elder Busche". Watch this video. It doesn't have much to do with anything I just said, but it's perfect for a Sunday afternoon. Special thanks to Teo for showing me this.
Today I had two especially great lessons in church. The first was taught by my dad when he substituted our Sunday School class. A couple things I learned:
1) My dad is a GREAT teacher
2) History combined with the gospel is so fascinating
3) Hezekiah was THE MAN
After that I headed off to Young Women's. Every couple months the Laurels get to attend Relief Society, however, and today was one of those days. We had an amazing lesson on being a covenant people as church members. We talked about all the important covenants we make - things like baptism, the sacrament, and temple covenants. Yeah, we've heard about all of these before. It's not like it's anything new, right?
Well THAT'S what's so great about this gospel. You can have a million lessons on the same subject, but you're never going to learn exactly the same thing. You can read the scriptures or your patriarchal blessing hundreds of thousands of times, and still gain something new from reading the exact same words.
So. We talked about the phrase "taking upon us the name of Christ". The teacher asked us what the really means. And THAT got me thinking.
There's this quote by Ghandi:
"I like your Christ, I do not like your Christians.
Your Christians are so unlike your Christ."
Wow. Harsh words, right? Maybe a little hard to hear?
But we NEED to hear it.
How many celebrities, politicians, etc. do you hear say they're Christian, but then looking at their lifestyle, you see so many things wrong with that claim? The word Christian really does contain the name Christ. And doesn't that demand a little more respect?
Apparently, the first time the word Christian was used in reference to church members was after Christ's death, and it was used as a sort of mockery. "Oh, you followers of Christ..." (or whatever they would have said - bear with me for a moment) However, Peter and all the disciples actually accepted the term "Christian" with gladness - they were more than happy to be able to take upon them the name of their leader, friend, and shepherd.
Am I that proud to take upon me His name? Am I WILLING, to quote the sacrament prayers I hear each Sunday? And if I do take upon me Christ's name, do I do it justice? Am I being righteous in my decisions, an example of integrity and kindness, and bearing the burdens of others? Do I lend comfort when needed?
I want to truly be able to be a Christian in every sense of the word. I want to be an example of the Church so nonmembers - so Ghandi - can look at the gospel and say, "Hey. There's a church that is full of actual Christians."
P.S. Go to youtube and type in "Advice from Elder Busche". Watch this video. It doesn't have much to do with anything I just said, but it's perfect for a Sunday afternoon. Special thanks to Teo for showing me this.
8.11.2010
not even close
Pictures?
They NEVER capture the true beauty of something. Let me give you some examples.
While on a picnic with my darling sister, the trees above me looked stunning. I took a picture. Really, not all that great. I'll testify though, they looked beautiful in person.
...Though maybe it was the combination of eating Mac & Cheese at a park and relaxing in bliss. Who knows.
A Drive-In Theater. Can you say PERFECT?! Yeah, it was. The pictures can't even capture the true excitement.
Sunsets. Never.
Today I explored a mountain with one of my best friends. We took pictures in a field of wild flowers (possibly pictures to come). Breath-taking. But no matter how hard we tried, the camera couldn't REALLY get it right.
My point? Experience things in person. Ten times better.
They NEVER capture the true beauty of something. Let me give you some examples.
While on a picnic with my darling sister, the trees above me looked stunning. I took a picture. Really, not all that great. I'll testify though, they looked beautiful in person.
...Though maybe it was the combination of eating Mac & Cheese at a park and relaxing in bliss. Who knows.
A Drive-In Theater. Can you say PERFECT?! Yeah, it was. The pictures can't even capture the true excitement.
Sunsets. Never.
Today I explored a mountain with one of my best friends. We took pictures in a field of wild flowers (possibly pictures to come). Breath-taking. But no matter how hard we tried, the camera couldn't REALLY get it right.
My point? Experience things in person. Ten times better.
8.05.2010
a ballerina
You know how people asked you when you were a kid, "What do you want to be when you grow up?" Typically, you replied "An astronaut!" or "A ballerina!" Or, if you were me, you replied "An actress!" And now, years down the road, you're asked "What do you want to do with your life? What are you going to major in?"
...I don't know.
I can tell you that I know I want to be a mother. My GOAL in life is to be a mother. To be that mom that cooks dinner for her husband and kids nearly every night of the week. Who does laundry, drives her kids to soccer practice and violin lessons, signs disclosure documents, and NURTURES. Because that "nurturing" instinct so often described in women -- I have that. It's what I want.
Okay. So there's half an answer.
But what am I supposed to do about the whole college situation? I'm going to college. I'm getting a degree. I'm graduating. But what should I graduate in?
I've always seen myself attending Brigham Young University. Typical Utah County child, I know. But it just makes sense to me. I'm not going to limit my options and only apply at BYU - that would be narrow-minded of me. But realistically, I know that's where I'll end up.
But THEN.
I keep getting emails and stuff in the mail from random colleges. Cal-Poly, University of Chicago, School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Cool. The nice thing would be if I knew what I was going to be studying at whichever University I choose. Because that should have a huge impact on the matter.
Yeah, yeah... I don't have to decide now. But really. There's so many options - so many things I'd LOVE to do!
I could always do something with my love for acting. Because really, I love it. But is that a dumb decision to make? To MAJOR in something that probably won't help me all that much later in life? Plus, I don't have the talent enough to make it in the big business. Not that I want to all that much.
I could go into Journalism. That's always appealed to me. But do I have any experience? Have I been apart of the school newspaper? No. Still, though... an option.
-Journalism as in newspaper, etc... OR
-BROADCAST Journalism? Oh-ho... It gets better.
Teaching. Something I've always wanted to do. Working with kids, helping them become better people. Because maybe - just maybe - I could make in impact on someone's life.
-Teach English? I like English.
-Teach History? I've recently come to ADORE history.
-Teach Art History? I'm obsessed with Art History (read below)
-Teach something else!
Art History. I love learning about old paintings, architecture, sculpture... Oh boy. I just soak it up whenever I get the opportunity. It's so appealing to me - the combination of world history and art. LOVE.
Writing. Rather unrealistic, but I like to write. I'm not all that good, but it's still an option. And hey, who cares about unrealistic, right?
I could go on.
But I think for now, I'll try not to bore you. Let's just say all this college stuff is more stressful than I thought it'd be.
I think I'll just be a ballerina.
...I don't know.
I can tell you that I know I want to be a mother. My GOAL in life is to be a mother. To be that mom that cooks dinner for her husband and kids nearly every night of the week. Who does laundry, drives her kids to soccer practice and violin lessons, signs disclosure documents, and NURTURES. Because that "nurturing" instinct so often described in women -- I have that. It's what I want.
Okay. So there's half an answer.
But what am I supposed to do about the whole college situation? I'm going to college. I'm getting a degree. I'm graduating. But what should I graduate in?
I've always seen myself attending Brigham Young University. Typical Utah County child, I know. But it just makes sense to me. I'm not going to limit my options and only apply at BYU - that would be narrow-minded of me. But realistically, I know that's where I'll end up.
But THEN.
I keep getting emails and stuff in the mail from random colleges. Cal-Poly, University of Chicago, School of the Art Institute of Chicago. Cool. The nice thing would be if I knew what I was going to be studying at whichever University I choose. Because that should have a huge impact on the matter.
Yeah, yeah... I don't have to decide now. But really. There's so many options - so many things I'd LOVE to do!
I could always do something with my love for acting. Because really, I love it. But is that a dumb decision to make? To MAJOR in something that probably won't help me all that much later in life? Plus, I don't have the talent enough to make it in the big business. Not that I want to all that much.
I could go into Journalism. That's always appealed to me. But do I have any experience? Have I been apart of the school newspaper? No. Still, though... an option.
-Journalism as in newspaper, etc... OR
-BROADCAST Journalism? Oh-ho... It gets better.
Teaching. Something I've always wanted to do. Working with kids, helping them become better people. Because maybe - just maybe - I could make in impact on someone's life.
-Teach English? I like English.
-Teach History? I've recently come to ADORE history.
-Teach Art History? I'm obsessed with Art History (read below)
-Teach something else!
Art History. I love learning about old paintings, architecture, sculpture... Oh boy. I just soak it up whenever I get the opportunity. It's so appealing to me - the combination of world history and art. LOVE.
Writing. Rather unrealistic, but I like to write. I'm not all that good, but it's still an option. And hey, who cares about unrealistic, right?
I could go on.
But I think for now, I'll try not to bore you. Let's just say all this college stuff is more stressful than I thought it'd be.
I think I'll just be a ballerina.
7.31.2010
things that make me jump for joy
Ramen
Best friends
Swimming at night
Sunburns
The Bachlorette with certain people
My blanket
Mac & Cheese
Hours and hours of the Gilmores
Colin Firth
Pictures
Ingrid Michaelson
"Ghost Adventures" on the travel channel
Kindred Spirit type people that come into your life unexpectedly
Red hair
Cakes and cupcakes shaped around Harry Potter themes
Good friends on Loritab
Wild sunflowers on the side of the road
CDs made by friends
Frank Sinatra
Long phone calls with people you've missed
My family
My tie-dye shirt made by Cass
Cake balls and cupcakes
The temple
Blog stalking
.... And Happy Birthday, Mr. Potter.
Best friends
Swimming at night
Sunburns
The Bachlorette with certain people
My blanket
Mac & Cheese
Hours and hours of the Gilmores
Colin Firth
Pictures
Ingrid Michaelson
"Ghost Adventures" on the travel channel
Kindred Spirit type people that come into your life unexpectedly
Red hair
Cakes and cupcakes shaped around Harry Potter themes
Good friends on Loritab
Wild sunflowers on the side of the road
CDs made by friends
Frank Sinatra
Long phone calls with people you've missed
My family
My tie-dye shirt made by Cass
Cake balls and cupcakes
The temple
Blog stalking
.... And Happy Birthday, Mr. Potter.
7.21.2010
my cucumber
I'd like to introduce you to my best friend.
Her name is Maddy Baker.
A long time ago, two mothers with daughters around 10 months old met each other and decided their daughters should be friends - what a brilliant idea.
For 7 years, the two girls grew closer and closer, until one sad day, one moved away to Utah, escaping the pressing heat of Phoenix. The two peas in a pod were determined to stay close. Distance could not ruin the solid foundation they had built. Phone calls were made almost every weekend, and visits were established every year. When they got cell phones, texting was used.
They stayed friends.
And now, at age 17, Maddy and I have lived away from each other longer than we've lived near. And yet, she still remains my best friend. I know that's never going to change.
I call her my cucumber - a name derived from past inside jokes.
She sings me "You are my sunshine" over the phone, and we giggle.
She helped me paint my room.
The other night when I was having a bad day, she called me and listened to me whine.
We can talk for hours on the phone and never get bored.
We've had the most influential years of our lives in different states, yet when we get together, we find ourselves even more alike than before.
We quote Harry Potter together.
We laugh like dorks and people give us strange looks.
When I cough, she slaps me on the back til I get mad enough and stop coughing.
We jam out to N'Sync.
I endure Phoenix summers in order to see her.
She endures crazy Utah County quirks to see me.
She once held my hair back while I threw up.
And tomorrow?
She's coming to see me.
Her name is Maddy Baker.
A long time ago, two mothers with daughters around 10 months old met each other and decided their daughters should be friends - what a brilliant idea.
For 7 years, the two girls grew closer and closer, until one sad day, one moved away to Utah, escaping the pressing heat of Phoenix. The two peas in a pod were determined to stay close. Distance could not ruin the solid foundation they had built. Phone calls were made almost every weekend, and visits were established every year. When they got cell phones, texting was used.
They stayed friends.
And now, at age 17, Maddy and I have lived away from each other longer than we've lived near. And yet, she still remains my best friend. I know that's never going to change.
I call her my cucumber - a name derived from past inside jokes.
She sings me "You are my sunshine" over the phone, and we giggle.
She helped me paint my room.
The other night when I was having a bad day, she called me and listened to me whine.
We can talk for hours on the phone and never get bored.
We've had the most influential years of our lives in different states, yet when we get together, we find ourselves even more alike than before.
We quote Harry Potter together.
We laugh like dorks and people give us strange looks.
When I cough, she slaps me on the back til I get mad enough and stop coughing.
We jam out to N'Sync.
I endure Phoenix summers in order to see her.
She endures crazy Utah County quirks to see me.
She once held my hair back while I threw up.
And tomorrow?
She's coming to see me.
7.18.2010
the beauty of a blog
Hello to all you people out there that are probably non-existent and don't really care much about my dreary life - a good day to you! I hope your summer's going well and bringing you bliss.
Basically, I have a few things I'd like to talk about. I'll try to keep it brief.
First of all - the name of my blog. "Scope for Imagination". Kindly read quote below title for more information. If you don't know who Anne Shirley is, I suggest you start leading a better life right now. Anne Shirley - also known as Anne of Green Gables, one of my all time favorite books and movies. How I wish I could be more like Anne - fiery, spontaneous, and a freckled redhead! I mean, just listen to these gem-like quotes from her:
Basically, I have a few things I'd like to talk about. I'll try to keep it brief.
First of all - the name of my blog. "Scope for Imagination". Kindly read quote below title for more information. If you don't know who Anne Shirley is, I suggest you start leading a better life right now. Anne Shirley - also known as Anne of Green Gables, one of my all time favorite books and movies. How I wish I could be more like Anne - fiery, spontaneous, and a freckled redhead! I mean, just listen to these gem-like quotes from her:
"I do wish that some day I shall have a white dress. That is my highest ideal of earthly bliss."
"That's Barry's pond." said Matthew.
"Oh, I don't like that name either. I shall call it - let me see - the Lake of Shining Waters. Yes, that is the right name for it. I know because of the thrill. When I hit on a name that suits exactly it gives me a thrill. Do things ever give you a thrill?"
"That's Barry's pond." said Matthew.
"Oh, I don't like that name either. I shall call it - let me see - the Lake of Shining Waters. Yes, that is the right name for it. I know because of the thrill. When I hit on a name that suits exactly it gives me a thrill. Do things ever give you a thrill?"
All within the first three chapters of the book. *sigh* I truly adore Miss. Anne.
Another thing? So far this blog is not as lovely as I could hope for. With time, it shall hopefully become all I dream of and more. But for now, bear with me as I attempt to figure out this world that is blogging. I've wanted one for quite some time now - mostly because of the wonderful people I know that have blogs that make me want to sing. Caroline, Katrina, Brynne, etc. I could go on. Know that if you have a blog, I've probably visited it. And I probably loved it.
A quick shout for joy for the absolutely perfect week I just had. Monday thru Thursday saw me partaking in a Leadership Conference at Dixie State College in St. George for student council.
Wow.
Being surrounded by truly amazing people for 4 days is incredible. I have some UNREAL friends that I love. Expect a post with a tribute to my phenomenal friends some time in the not-so-distant future.
Back to Dixie? Classes, roommates, late nights, best friends, talk shows, easy mac, Tarzan, bus rides, pool parties, waterbending, blacklight dance, Kalai, spicy italians, british accents....
I could go on.
But I'll try not to bore you all on my first-ever post.
For now, I shall just say: Huzzah. I love summer.
Another thing? So far this blog is not as lovely as I could hope for. With time, it shall hopefully become all I dream of and more. But for now, bear with me as I attempt to figure out this world that is blogging. I've wanted one for quite some time now - mostly because of the wonderful people I know that have blogs that make me want to sing. Caroline, Katrina, Brynne, etc. I could go on. Know that if you have a blog, I've probably visited it. And I probably loved it.
A quick shout for joy for the absolutely perfect week I just had. Monday thru Thursday saw me partaking in a Leadership Conference at Dixie State College in St. George for student council.
Wow.
Being surrounded by truly amazing people for 4 days is incredible. I have some UNREAL friends that I love. Expect a post with a tribute to my phenomenal friends some time in the not-so-distant future.
Back to Dixie? Classes, roommates, late nights, best friends, talk shows, easy mac, Tarzan, bus rides, pool parties, waterbending, blacklight dance, Kalai, spicy italians, british accents....
I could go on.
But I'll try not to bore you all on my first-ever post.
For now, I shall just say: Huzzah. I love summer.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)