'Perfect Imperfections'

This is a challenge from PrettyPrettyPrincessPosts:

-3 things you DON'T like about yourself
-3 things you DO like about yourself
-3 UNIQUE things about yourself

So here we go!

I do NOT like:

-My nose-EW!!! It's just weird shaped and nasty...

-My nails-they're fun to play around with and paint, but sometimes they're just annoying. Especially my toenails-I trip ALL the time-I cannot even count the times I have tripped and broken a toenail, and then ended up bleeding everywhere...yech

-My violin skills-I started when I was in 6th grade (long time ago), and I really haven't gotten any better. But Mama Bear is convinced that if I practice I'll get better (I beg to differ)

I absolutely, and totally LOVE:

-My legs-you will never see anything above the knee, because I am super conscious about my white thighs (yes, even when I swim I wear jean cutoffs), but I love my calves. They LOOK muscular, and they probably are. This year in college, I was in a 3-story building and some idiot decided to put my classes on the 1st and 3rd floors, with my schedule having them 10 minutes apart. The elevator is on the OTHER side of the building, so it was just faster to take the stairs. BUT IT KILLED ME!!! Needless to say, I actually was 'working out' this year. : P

-My music sense-Music has been a huge part of my life, mainly on my dad's side of the family. My grandma played piano, my dad plays piano, and I play piano. But a lot of my family has sung, too. I have really bad stage fright, so I wouldn't be caught dead singing a solo (that hasn't stopped my mom from making us four kids sing... IN FRONT OF THE WHOLE CHURCH!!!!)

-My 'Level-headedness'- A lot of people who know me very well have said I'm very level-headed, and very grounded. This is true! I also try to keep an open mind when meeting new people, and it makes me sad to see people treated poorly because of how they are (cultural background, financial situations, etc..). Seriously, people? We're all human! NO ONE IS PERFECT!!!!

3 unique things:

-I can sorta-kinda-maybe play the harp. I purchased one approximately 2 years ago, and LOVE it!!! I can't play it very well, but I do practice-that one I am determined to accomplish!

-I am super mega quiet. It's not necessarily that I don't have anything to say, I just live by the motto, "It is better to keep your mouth shut and be thought a fool, than to open it and remove all doubt." (Mark Twain). I am not very street smart (and not always booksmart, either), but at least I know when to shut up!

-I have never lived outside of the northern half of Utah. (okay, this one isn't unique-just boring) Most of my family lives here, and my parents have always had good 'luck' with schools, jobs, and teachers, etc, and have never found a reason to move out of state. I sure do love to travel, though!!

So that's just a piece of me, most of it you've probably known because of the blog...so TAG!!! You're it-go post about you!!!

Foot In Mouth

As is widely known, I do not have a knack for speaking eloquently. When it comes to writing, I have all the time in the world (usually) to say what I want to say, and I know how to put words together to sound beautiful. (I blog more than I speak, literally)

I am often the target of ridicule, but I have learned to laugh at myself (this is very important, since I am also a klutz!) But a few nights ago proved to be rather harmful (more to my dog than anyone, really).I was at work, cleaning, and had brought my young pooch along with me. (She keeps me company on the car rides to and from work). She was in my way, and thus elicited this reponse from me: "Move it, chubby!" (Not very eloquent, am I?) Lab Lady, a near and dear friend of mine (and a coworker), was in the vicinity, and said, "I beg your pardon!"

This comment, as is obvious, was NOT directed towards her, and I quickly moved to fix the error. "Not you, Lab Lady!" I yelped. "I would never say that to your face!"

Lab Lady exploded. "Aha! The truth comes out-not to my face!" There was much laughing  (another coworker overheard everything). Lab Lady knows full-well that I would never say anything like that, to her face or her behind her back, and had been teasing me all along.

She later explained that she had been going to say that she had seen a lot of other dogs MUCH heavier than 'my little one'. Redder than red, I walked away, still mumbling apologies.

When I again passed my wonderful coworker, she quipped, "How's it going, chubby?"

I might NEVER live that one down.

Sick

I'm sick and tired of seeing people who refuse to give of themselves to others less forunate. I'm sick of hearing of the rich politicians who don't want to help the people who put them where they are today.

I'm sick of seeing people argue over being 'politically correct', and battling out  EVERY. SINGLE. LITTLE. detail of "Christmas" (It's not a Christmas tree, it's a FESTIVAL tree, it's not Christmas Break, it's 'Winter Break').

I'm sick of seeing proud people who think they're above everyone else. I'm sick of seeing "Christians" who have no tolerance for anyone, not even to help.

I'm sick of seeing racist-like action. I'm sick of seeing generalizations of religions when some (if not most) of those people are harmless.

I'm sick of seeing all the cruelty and abuse in the world.

But mostly, I'm just sick.

If you hop on over to Prettyprettyprincessposts you will see what happened this last Thursday/Friday. It was pretty crazy! No power, no school, nothing! It was kind of scary, but our prayers were heard and we were safe (most of us).

So, on with Christmas! My Christmas shopping is pretty much done (sorry to brag), and I am THRILLED!!! I always find little gifts that are inexpensive, but seem to mean a lot! (If I may say so myself.

So today, we have Celtic Woman (again) with "Ding Dong Merrily on High". Finals for school are this week, and I am barely getting by (blech). More to follow!



Ding dong dong
Ding dong dong...

Ding dong merrily on high,
In heav'n the bells are ringing:
Ding dong! verily the sky
Is riv'n with angel singing.
Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis!
Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis!

E'en so here below, below,
Let steeple bells be swungen,
And "Io, io, io!"
By priest and people sungen.
Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis!
Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis!

Pray you, dutifully prime
Your matin chime, ye ringers;
May you beautifully rime
Your evetime song, ye singers.
Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis!
Gloria, Hosanna in excelsis!

A-Z lyrics

Early Christmas

I know, it's not even Thanksgiving yet (we have 1 1/2 weeks), but I LOVE Christmas, especially the music. And you know me and Celtic Woman! So I might start putting up Christmas music videos. Sorry (and not)!

Christmas Pipes


Christmas pipes, Christmas pipes
Calling us home on Christmas night
Call us from far, call us from near
Oh play me your Christmas pipes

Christmas bells, Christmas bells
Over the hills and over the dells
Ringing out bright, ringing out clear
Oh ring me your Christmas bells

Christmas strings, Christmas strings
Playing the peace that Christmas brings
Fiddle and bow, gentle and low
Oh play me your Christmas strings

Christmas choir, Christmas choir
Christmas carols 'round Christmas fire
Holy night, angels on high
Round up your Christmas choir

Christmas band, Christmas band
You're waiting for me with your Christmas band
Cymbal and drum, rattle and hum
March out your Christmas band

[1st verse]

Good to be home to your Christmas
Good to be home to your Christmas
Good to be home to your Christmas pipes

(A-Z lyrics)

-Grateful-

While I would like to be creative like lovely Emma and be grateful for something every day, I'm not. It's not that I don't have the resources to be grateful for ('cause I do), but mainly because of time (also, I'm lazy).

So today, I'm doing a...'large' gratitude post.

Something that the majority of us (including me) take for granted is a healthy body. Besides the occasional cold and allergies, I'm healthy. But I don't work out. I've got a good set of legs, but I don't run. I can see very well, and use my li'l eyeballs...A LOT! (What can I say? I like to read)

Something I am also grateful for is my hair. As most are aware, I have long, luscious locks. They reach approximately halfway down my back. I LOVE my hair!

 

(Yes, that is the camera in the mirror)

In recent years, I have met many (too many, personally) people with cancer. One, a close friend from junior high, battled brain tumors FIERCELY for three years. Eventually, the Good Lord took him. But it was a terrible battle. For those of you who have met someone battling cancer, you know.

He lost his hair. His head was as smooth as polished marble (it looked like it, anyway-I did NOT touch it, ever!). He never lost faith in his religion, his family, or even his God. His family supported him 110%, putting everything they could. Kids from school came together to help in any way they could. At the tender age of 17, he passed away.

But I became VERY aware of cancer and what this terrible monster did to people and their families. I have since donated my hair TWICE. The second time happened to be today. The lady chopped and hacked at my braid (I have very thick hair) and then handed it to me.

"Here you go! Your long-life accomplishment. It means nothing to me, but everything to you. Enjoy!" Okay, she didn't REALLY say that, but it kind of felt like it. And then she continued to clip, shaping my hair to how I had requested (very nice lady). And here I am.

It's gone...ALL OF IT! But I wasn't sad. This is for a good cause, plus it was time for a new look. So here's to a new me: a new life, a new hair cut, and new experiences! Cheers!

PS-Here is the website of that friend of mine. A very touching experience, and it broke my heart when I found I was unable to attend his funeral. I hope he'll forgive me.

Fix You

It was snowing, the little snowflakes very light
And the moon was glowing, full and bright.
A fair maiden, the moon that revealed,
And he saw through her thin shield.

Peacefully she lay,
And to him, it was broad day.
She was meant for him!
His heart was full to the brim.

Once inside that warm place,
Color returned to her beautiful face.
Her cheeks became flushed,
And he could feel his own blush.

He noticed something in her hands,
A precious gift, of great importance.
But it was broken, impossible to fix,
And in her hands, the pieces mixed.

So he picked up the bits, and
Clutching them in his calloused hands.
He cupped his hands together,
And blew-they flew! Gentle as feathers.

Glitter floated in the air,
Mingling and settling on her hair.
He watched, entranced,
Even his heart seemed to dance.

Her eyes flew open,
"My broken heart-you've mended!"
"Of course," He stuttered,
But his brain coughed and sputtered.

"What else could I do,
Leave a maiden under the moon?"
She softly chuckled,
Surely his knees would soon buckle!

"I had to, you see,
I think you were made for me."
He replied,
And he caught her eye.

"Yes," she replied,
My heart is yours, and yours is mine."
"I've done it! Here in this room...
"I FIXED YOU."

Utah Drivers

I live in the wonderful country of USA.

(found @ http://www.istanbul-city-guide.com/usa-map.asp)

It's a wonderful country, in my humble opinion. But to be more specific, I live here.

(found @ http://www.evo.org/sherlock/western_usa.html)

This is Utah (from the Native American term 'Ute', which means 'people of the mountain'.Quick tips about Utah)

It's a good place to live. I have lived here my whole life, and will probably live here the rest of my life (not by choice, honestly). But we are actually notorious in the country for one thing: driving.

No, we're not good. In fact, we are quite the opposite! We are terrible, AGGRESSIVE drivers. Okay-the majority of Utahns are probably good drivers, but it's the bad ones that give us the bad reputation. It's not even like an individual is like that all the time! It's just the once or twice time you've happened upon us that work that day was crappy, or maybe they got dumped and are super angry! People here are not afraid to use their middle finger. It gets pretty bad sometimes.

Now, in no way, shape, or form am I saying that I am not a bad driver-I can be agressive, too! (Chalk that up to the Big Kahuna). I'm horn-happy, and my friends laugh at me. But some people just need to pull over or learn to drive. HOW HARD IS IT?! I love driving, and it can soothe me...if I'm on the right road. Otherwise, I just get stoked.

Changes

So for those of you who haven't noticed, I'm changing.

I'm starting college (which I love by the way), and this is a chance for me to introduce the 'new me', to people who I've never met. FABULOUS!!! It's getting...better, especially since in my public speech class we were supposed to do a 3-5 minute speech about our self! Boy was that hard! I'm not used to telling people about myself, especially since I don't fancy myself an exciting person. But they loved it! (weirdos...)

But I've always been into writing: stories, poetry, even a little bit of lyrics (although not very well). It's in my blood. My great-grandfather has pads of papers that he's written poems on (he was big on poetry). My grandmother (his daughter) wrote stories (and still does!), although we are not published. for each child born, my dad wrote a poem for them. The first time I read mine, I cried.

On paper, we have a way with words. Speaking, it doesn't work out so well. I am often left stuttering (especially with people I don't know). But what can I say? I can't help it.

So, here's to a new me! I am on my way to my career, on my way to a brighter future. Yes, I will go out there and KNOCK. THEM. DEAD.

Thunderstruck

He thought himself high,
And mightier, even than the sun.
Higher than clouds, and the little bird
that soars in the sky.

So he sought riches,
He sought fame, and glory.
He pushed aside the meek,
He found the poor disgusting.

He reached for the powers
Of one who had forbidden it.
He demanded they be given to him,
So he could do what he pleased.

But he was denied.

Rage surged in his heart,
A flame that could not be put out.
Who had the nerve
To refuse him?

So he reached for the powers
Of one who would give him everything,
and yet nothing.
And they were given to him.

He trampled on all,
Yet bothered none.
He struck down the brave,
And the mighty.

But the power from on high
Took his powers away,
And subjected him to those
He had lashed, and spat upon.

He had been... THUNDERSTRUCK.

Pursuit

Breathless, she runs,

Her Pursuer is not far behind.

"Cassie," he taunts, "I'm coming!"

True enough, he steadily approaches.

She leaps, jumping over a fallen bough.

Nothing can stop her.

She had known better

Than to tempt fate,

But unfortunately, life just is.

Now, she could pay dearly.

She felt as if her very life was on the line.

However, she would NOT let this happen.

Woo! Woo! the train whistle blows.

Steadily, her energy decreases.

"Cassie, you can't escape me!" her pursuer, again.

The doors begin to shut and

With a final burst of energy, she slips through.

She has done it.

She has defeated Time once more.

ME

The challenge: 5 random things. About me. BORING!

What I want you to know, you probably already know. I don't normally just tell people things of my own volition. Nope. But I'll try. I guess.

1) I'm quiet, and shy. Very private. 'Nuff said.

2) I LOVE food! I once tried to gain weight, and probably ended up losing. There was a time where I was at extremes, for about 7 pounds. I hated it. But now I've managed to 'level' out, and have averaged the same weight for a couple of weeks now. (yay!)

3) I LOVE LOVE animals (you probably already knew that)

4) I love to sit on the beach, and watch the waves, but I am deathly afraid of sharks. Thus, I am sortakindamaybe a good swimmer! (especially when I want to be)

5) I love music (again, you probably already knew that).

There ya go.

Sundays

Sundays are, to say the least, interesting. Many different things have happened on a Sunday, and I love Sundays! They can be quiet and relaxing, enjoying a nice day at home, sitting in the sun reading. Or it could be an adventure on the way to grandmama's house! Stopping by to grab a bite to eat and then swapping some family history stories, and having a good laugh!

But this past Sunday was altogether different. For starters, I decided to attend the single's ward (everyone 18-30 looking for a partner). Very nerve-wracking, as I have never been good around boys (which is odd, considering I've grown up with them). But I thought, "What the heck?" So I went at 11 AM with my parents to my 'home' ward, just for our Sacrament Meeting.

A certain 'young' (OLD) man got up to bear his testimony. He is a miracle! He had been deathly ill, and (according to his children) he could've gone either way. WHOA! But here he stood (actually, he was in a wheelchair) bearing his testimony of the truth of this Gospel. Then, he professed his undying love for his wife, who, despite their 'problems', he promised he would stick by through thick and thin! It brought a tear to my eye. I sure hope I find someone like that!

Then, while someone tried to give their testimony, a young boy sitting behind began singing at the top of his lungs. At first, I didn't understand what he was singing. And then it hit me!

"I got a dream! I got a dream!" I couldn't help but smile and giggle as I realized he was singing from "Tangled". Oh young children...

Then I attended my singles ward (which begins at 1)! I have some good friends attending and thought, "I'll just go with them!" It was very exciting, and I think I'll join! There are, of course, 'those' boys who decide to be funny, and brought up the subject of the 'green m&ms'... REALLY? I have to deal with this at home (sometimes), at school, at work... I don't want to have to deal with it here, too!

(Sigh)

Christina Perri

You have probably heard of her. She's become quite the celebrity as of late. And trust me, I can see why (or rather, hear). But she's good! Her voice, the melody, the lyrics!!! What's not to love? And so today, I present to you "Arms". Beautiful. I almost cried, simply because [I imagine] it's true. So here is the music video: no swearing, no 'bad scenes', no violence... I love it!

Just as a PS, as I watched this video from youtube.com, I saw a comment that everyone seemed to like (and I quote): "Christinas alot braver than me... if i woke up next to that guy id probably scream :]"

BWAHAHAHA! Hilarious (and, most likely, true).




I never thought that you would be the one to hold my heart
But you came around and you knocked me off the ground from the start

You put your arms around me
and I believe that it's easier for you to let me go
You put your arms around me and I'm home

How many times will you let me change my mind and turn around?
I can't decide if I'll let you save my life or if I'll drown

I hope that you see right through my walls
I hope that you catch me 'cause I'm already falling
I'll never let our love get so close
You put your arms around me and I'm home

The world is coming down on me and I can't find a reason to be loved
I never wanna leave you but I can't make you bleed if I'm alone

You put your arms around me
and I believe that it's easier for you to let me go...

I hope that you see right through my walls
I hope that you catch me, 'cause I'm already falling
I'll never let our love get so close
You put your arms around me and I'm home

I tried my best to never let you in to see the truth
And I've never opened up
I've never truly loved 'til you put your arms around me
And I believe that it's easier for you to let me go

I hope that you see right through my walls
I hope that you catch me, 'cause I'm already falling
I'll never let our love get so close
You put your arms around me and I'm home

You put your arms around me and I'm home

College

THIS is what people look forward to, and I can see why. I'm just a freshman at my lovely campus, but that's okay... gotta start somewhere, right? I've barely been nervous all summer, mainly because it hadn't really hit me yet. And then, two days before school started, it HIT me. LIKE. A. WALL. My brain was freaking out. How am I paying for this? How do I get there? What if I get lost? What happens if I fail? What if I'm late? BAHHH!!! I had never been so freaked out before.

And then it was silenced. They were the quietest words, but I have never felt such peace as I did when I heard those words: "Everything's going to be fine."

That was it. And more than that, I knew it. I believed it. And I quit freaking out.

Needless to say, everything IS fine. Things are...okay. They could definitely be better, but considering where we COULD'VE been, it's okay. And that's all I need for now.

Then Sunday, my lovely grandma came for dinner. She rarely comes to our house, so of course, Mama Bear had to hustle her butt off for a FABULOUS dinner (homemade mashed potatoes-THE BEST!, roast 'beast', corn, green beans, and grandpa brought an apple and a cherry pie for dessert-YUM!), and then my grandma sat my dad down (her son), and said, in the most serious tone of voice I've EVER heard my grandmother take my dad with, "We're here to see you give your kids a blessing."

This is a tradition before school. Once, my daddy was gone on a business trip (or something like that), and wasn't able to, but that's about it. Of course, it's very spiritual and emotional, and I bawled like a baby, especially when my dad told me, as I sat down in the chair for my turn, "But you're an old person now!" I tried to smile, but then it quickly turned to tears as he placed his hands on my head. Boo-Hoo! Yes, I am an adult (legal now), and yes, my next birthday is about 2 weeks away, but I STILL WANT ONE!!!! WAHH!!! :'(

So, school started yesterday, which was nice, and I've met some nice people, and my professors are OK, but it's pretty good! I have brothers who are going to a charter school which just HAPPENS to be on the same campus as college, so I see them once in a while... very nice! I love new school supplies, and this year, I kind of had to go school shopping for myself, but that's okay, 'cause guess who's an anal OCD person who just happens to have kept things from like....4th grade? YES!!! ME!!!

But as if that's not enough, I lost my pencil bag with ALL my pens and pencils.... gar! I've looked high and low! I've looked near and far! They're GONE!!!! So of course, I had to buy NEW pencils (Mama Bear got new pens for the boys, and I managed to steal one or two for meself). Yes, I'm being a drama queen, but they're CUTE pencils! They're short and mechanical and colorful! Beautiful!

Anyhoo, things are okay (for a while), and I'm still working (very good). My poor little piggy bank is crying now, though. Anyone have $500?

L-I-F-E

Do you know how boring life is right now? The only thing to keep me distracted from boredom is my work, as well as (blech) school! I wouldn't mind, but guess what? We're still worrying about loans and all this JUNK... i hate it. And all my mom does is nag nag nag... I'm ready to shoot myself, and I hate school already. Gross.


That, honestly, is the extent of my life right now. No social life. There's nothing exciting at church, or even at home!

I just need Chris Evans to walk into my life. Or Josh Groban... either one will work!!

Stress 2

This is how I feel right now. Mostly, it's because of work. I'm babysitting (practically full-time), and working my 'regular' job (the one that I've done for about a year and a half now). I don't mind babysitting, especially 'cause they're good kids (two boys). But I just happen to be short on patience, especially in the 'kids' deparment, and sometimes all it takes is that one more 'NO!' before I snap. Luckily, they have a bedroom in which they can 'time out' in. Very good, very good. It helps lots (I think).But for my few followers, I am actually feeling like this (in particular, for one fellow blogger):

Miss 'Alice' is getting married!!! And, she's expecting!! You can read it on her blog, but I am WAYYY excited for her, even though she lives approximately halfway around the world and I have never met her before. For the short time I've followed her, though, I have learned that she is a super mega talented AMAZING poet, and loves poetry. Did I mention I'm excited for her?

Anyway, that is my exciting news, (though, technically, it's not mine... ah well.)

Here is my mantra for the next week or so:

FOOD. RELAX. FOOD. RELAX.

My Day

Honestly, I hope to get married one day! Lots of people say, "Don't worry, you will", but honestly, I don't mind if I don't get married. I am prepared to handle those consequences!!!

Anyhoo, Lovely 'Not So Usual' Emma blogged about weddings. I love wedding dresses! If I had the time, I would also become a fashion designer (I have a different career path right now). But these dresses are absolutely beautiful.

This one is called Julee. Granted, not the 'traditional' wedding dress, but beautiful all the same, especially with smaller detail. I love it!

This one is called Elizabeth. I have fallen in LOVE with this one! Supposedly, the design is just dark purple (the Celtic heart combo), but it looks black from where I see it. Maybe it's just me!

These two dresses I found at Threahead Creations, a place where you get to create your own dress. They are pictures of ladies who designed their own and then resent them to show off at this website. There are pictures of others, but those two were my favorite. You should check it out and what else you can do!

I love to draw, although I'm not as good as I'd like to be. But while looking for an idea for a dress to draw, I found this one. MAGNIFICENT!!! I have found my million dollar wedding dress!

'Nuff said....

Holding Hands

Nothing really new has occured (with me), except of course, the Norwegian shooting/bombing. Isn't that terrible? Lovely Alice sent me HERE. It's all in Norwegian, but the link that says "Klikk her for a styrke lenken" means to click there to add your own person. The instructions from there are in English. It's pretty cool to see how many people have "linked hands", practically joining in prayer for the people in Norway. And yes, I did join.

Shy

That is my #1 weakness, as well as my #1 strength: shy, or as I prefer to see it, being quiet.

I was once asked about by a superior at work. "You're pretty quiet, eh?" he said. I nodded. "Why?" I shrugged. "I think I'd rather be somebody who was quiet than someone who DOESN'T know when to shut up." He laughed, as he knew of some of our coworkers who DIDN'T (don't) know when to shut up. But it most definitely is not the last time it's been pointed out.

For another class, we had to put something about ourselves on a paper (nameless), and then copies would be handed out to each student for them to fill out and get to know the other people in the class. I put: I'm very shy. When all was said and done, the teacher then asked us each so we knew who put what about themselves. She reached mine. "I'm very shy. All right, who is it?" She knew who I was (i'd had her before), but for the class's benefit, right?

Very tentatively, I raised my hand. "There she is! Cassie!" she pointed to me. "Look how shy she is-raising her hand all quietly." That's just me!

There are good AND bad sides to it-for example, people don't know me a lot (pro to me, con to other people who think shy people are BAD), and don't realize I'm there: you wouldn't BELIEVE the gossip that goes around about other people: in school, in church, within my friends. HOLY. CRAP.

O.O

But people forget I'm there, and more often than not, never realize I'm there. I'm a fairly sensible person, so I usually keep it to myself...but can you say BLACKMAIL?  Bwahahaha....

Ahem.

Alas, there are cons. I don't have the nerve to dance in a small group (unless it's my firneds, in which case I don't look good dancing, anyway). Even in large groups I have a hard time, because I DON'T know these people. What if they laugh at me? What if I trip and make a COMPLETE fool of myself? (been there, done that). There are a series of life experiences that have lead to this shyness, but it does run in my genes. My grandpa hardly says a word-EVER. Sometimes he's talkative, but not often. Maybe I admired that as a kid, and ran after it... I dunno.

But my shyness also makes me a very private person. I don't share a lot of things, and today the only reason I'm telling you about this is because I'm bored and have basically nothing to do. But I don't voluntarily give information, because that sounds like bragging. Sometimes it's a good thing I'm shy, and sometimes it's not.... Meh.

Trials

As a member of the LDS faith, there are many things we believe. Today's post is one of many: trials. We believe that every person goes through a trial for a reason: usually, we believe it is because we have to learn something: patience, humility, strength.... who knows?

Anyway, yesterday in church we began talking about trials. And someone said something that I truly believe:

"Don't let your trials define you, but REFINE you."

How true is that? Shouldn't we walk away from something that makes us better? We also believe that God doesn't give you anything you can't handle-He knows exactly how to stretch you. I love my religion so much! This just gives me more faith/hope as I go through my day, knowing that I am safe in the hands of the Lord. I know not all of you believe this, or even believe in a God, but I guess that's something that maybe you have to deal with. Either way, he's always there for you.

Lady Gaga

There's a fairly new artist in town: Lady Gaga. I, personally, don't know her real name, but I guess that's not the point of being a singer, is it? Anyway, one of her recent hits is 'Born This Way', advocating being gay. Too much politics and controversy, so I won't go into it. But anyway, Weird Al got a hold of it. I LOVE Weird Al. My dad was a fan for ever, and we were excited when we heard about his new album, Alpocalypse. It's pretty hilarious, as it turns out! Anyway, my family and I are not a big fan of Lady Gaga, but when we heard that Weird Al was doing a parody, we were very excited. So today, I present: Perform This Way. It's actually pretty good. Oh, and PS: Lady Gaga approves of this video!




My mama told me when I was hatched
Act like a superstar
Save your allowance, buy a bubble dress
And someday you will go far
Now on red carpets, well, I'm hard to miss
The press follows everywhere I go
I'll poke your eye out with a dress like this
Back off and enjoy the show!

I'm sure my critics will say it's a grotesque display
Well, they can bite me, baby -- I perform this way
I might be wearin' Swiss cheese or maybe covered with bees
It doesn't mean I'm crazy -- I perform this way

Ooo, my little monsters pay... lots 'cause I perform this way
Baby, I perform this way
Ooo, don't worry, I'm okay... hey, I just perform this way
I'm not crazy, I perform this way

I'll be a troll or evil queen
I'll be a human jelly bean
'Cause every day is Halloween
For me...
I'm so completely original
My new look is all the rage
I'll wrap my small intestines 'round my neck
And set fire to myself on stage
I'll wear a porcupine on my head
On a W-H-I-M
And for no reason now I'll sing in French
Excusez-moi, Qui a pété? (Who cut the cheese?)

Got my straight jacket today, it's made of gold lamé
No, not because I'm crazy - I perform this way
I strap prime rib to my feet, cover myself with raw meat
I'll bet you've never seen a skirt steak worn this way

Don't be offended when you see
My latest pop monstrosity
I'm strange, weird, shocking, odd, bizarre
I'm Frankenstein, I'm Avatar
There's nothing too embarrassing
I'll honestly do anything
But wear white after Labor Day
'Cause baby, I perform this way

Hope you won't think it's cliché if I go nude today
Don't call the cops now, baby, I perform this way
No reason I should regret all the attention I get
I'm not completely crazy, I perform this way, yeah

I perform this way-hey, I perform this way-hey
I'm always deviating from the norm this way-hey
I perform this way-hey, I perform this way-hey
I'm really not insane -- I just perform this way-hey

More lyrics: http://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/w/weird_al_yankovic/#share

On an interview with Weird Al, he said that a real woman actually danced these (It might even be the Halloween Queen herself), but they just put his face on the woman's body. Just a tad creepy.

Cosmic Love

I really cannot get enough of this woman, Florence. She is AWESOME!!!!
 So today's song is: Cosmic Love, and the video is very odd (to say the least). I love how she does her videos, and I guess it was also on "So You Think You Can Dance." Hmm...



So, that's the official video, Here is, "SYTYCD" version-much shorter, but still... OK. (I guess)



Lots to tell, I guess. But not now. Really.

Heartbroken

I have found a new love! A couple years back, I was in jr. high, and they needed someone to play bass in our little orchestra. I volunteered, which opened many a-door for me. Like jazz band. one of the requirements for THIS class was that we listened to approximately ten hours of jazz. Well, at that point in time, I was not too interested in jazz, but it grew, and that love has stuck with me. So when I was recently directed in a new 'jazzer's way, I said, okay!

So today, I present to you: Meaghan Smith. I think she is absolutely beautiful, and has quite a unique singing voice-but beautiful all the same!!! Her animated bio  is quite different from any other singer/songwriter's I've experienced. Jump on over and check it out! But here is a song off of her Cricket's Orchestra album, which is simply divine! I love it all! Enjoy!!



this stupid heart
this foolish thing
failed me from the start
and keeps malfunctioning
always dropping beats
and falling fast
until it bleeds me dry at last
tell me your king's horses
and all your king's men
what's the use in fixing
what will only break again?

heartbroken
heartbroken
what's the us in fixing
what will kill me in the end?
put me back together
I'm still heartbroken

well i fixed it up
with safety pins
but you stole the key
and broke right in
you cut my strings
and you hung me high
well i cross this heart
and hope to die
tell me if you love me
tell me if you can
what's the use in fixing
what will only break again?

heartbroken
heartbroken
what's the use in fixing
what will kill me in the end?
put me back together
I'm still heartbroken

heartbroken
what a bitter end
I was on the mend
but here I am again

heartbroken
heartbroken
what's the use in fixing
what will kill me in the end?
put me back together
I'm still heartbroken... 

Walking With Him

*NOTE*: This post expresses the view of the writer ALONE, and not Blogger.com, or associates or affiliates of Blogger.com.

She sat by the pool, looking at her twisted reflection. There was something that looked similar to mud spattered across her pure white robe, and her hair was rather frumpy. Even her complexion looked pale. Tears streamed down her face. A hand reached down and touched her shoulder. She curled up, putting her back squarely to Him.

"Don't touch me." She said, although it wasn't harsh. It was almost protective. "I can't have you do this for me. It should be mine, and mine alone to carry." The hand now rested on her shoulder, and the person knelt down next to her. She would not look at him.

"Please." She whispered through her tears. There was a sigh from the man, but he stayed put. He placed both hands on her shoulders, and she stood. He wrapped one arm around her shoulder, and began to lead her on the beaten path that lead around the pool. Still, she cried.

"I cannot ask this of you." She whispered. He shook his head: You don't have to. "But, you'll--" He nodded sadly.

"I'm sorry. This isn't who I am, I promise. I don't know how I got dragged into this. This isn't..." her voice trailed off. "Forgive me. I can't believe that I could, that I would, do such a thing. I swear to you, I can't do it. It feels awful, and I know I'm not doing what I'm supposed to, but it's like... like I can't stop. Only when it's been said and done can I see the things that I've done, the damage that's been dealt. Please," her voice quivered, and she finished with a whisper: "Forgive me." Tears flowed freely, but down her face and his.

He stopped her, back in the same spot he'd found her, and turned to face her. "It's OK." He said. She couldn't bear to look at him. It was as if she could feel the weight of her guilt simply by looking at him. But he put a finger under her chin, and lifted her face to look at him. There was love in his brilliant blue eyes.  "I forgive you."

He hugged her, as a father might hug a child, and she could feel, in her heart, the forgiveness as well as his love. This was repentance.

(Picture: Forgiven,  Greg Olsen ©)

Funny Stuff

I found I have been inspired by my fellow bloggers recently. So today, I read Alice in Wonderland's blog, and read about falling asleep in work. WHICH reminded me of a funny class story I heard, relating to #10 on "Alice's" list.

My friend told how she had fallen asleep in geography class, while they were watching a film. Her head was on her desk, with her arms wrapping around it (you know what I"m talking about, right?)

Anyhoo, the teacher picked this moment to tap the student on the shoulder. My friend, being as quick as she is, quickly sat up, and said, "Amen." The teacher gasped, and said, "I'm so sorry!" My friend shrugged, and said, "That's OK." The teacher left, and the student proceeded to put her head down on her desk, and fall back asleep.

The Baseball Game



I just thought of another rather funny story. A family friend invited my family (all 6 of us) to go to a baseball game (this was a couple of summers ago). We piled in her wonderful VAN, and headed to downtown to watch our baseball team vs the visiting team. As we were parking, I mentioned how the first time I had gone to watch a baseball game, it was at night, and it was FREEZING. No one had told me to bring a blanket.

At this point in time, the family friend's youngest son, Little Duckling, was getting out of the car in front of me, and I did not see him. So I finished my thought.

"I nearly froze my cheeks off!" He turned around just as I said this, and I could feel myself going bright red.

"NICE." Was his response.

That's not embarrassing at all.

The End

This post is sorta-kinda-maybe inspired by Emma's recent drama. While it is drama, not the same kind as hers.

So, it's the end of the year. I FINALLY graduated from Candy Land High School, and it was amazing! I loved graduation, and I almost teared up at the end, but then i was brave and didn't.

Anyhoo, my friends and I are partiers. We love to party! we'll throw them at our own house, or go to a party. Either way, we love to have fun. And I thought, Heck, it's graduation, why not? So I started asking around-when would people be available? We graduated on a Friday, and so it was either that Friday night or the following Saturday, so we could go into the wee hours of the morning and not worry because everyone else would be partying, too.

Well, there was a small problem. Friday was when the two different high schools (I have friends going to a neighboring rival highschool: B-Town! Grrr...) were throwing their Senior All Night Parties, where (you guessed it) the high schools are open to the seniors to do practically anything. I had heard that at my high school last year, a group of students (boys) brought their X-box 360, and hooked it up to a teacher's screen projector, and played HALO (or one of those war games) on a a huge screen! That's awesome!

So this year, there was a hypnotist, bouncy houses, dances, you name it! $20 if you bought a ticket before or $25 at the door. I was like-NO WAY! None of my friends were going, (from Candy Land, anyway), and so I didn't really want to go (I know, I'm a boring senior). Plus, my lovely wonderful 'sister' was also graduating and she invited me. First of all, she kicked @$$ at getting this diploma. She told me that in freshman and the beginning of sophomore year she didn't really care. Approximately halfway through her sophomore year- POOF!!! She started caring. She had lots of credits to make up and she did it! She is (so far) the only one out of the first three kids in her family to have graduated with her HS diploma. How could I not go? So I went.

Anyway, Saturday (back to the party), the local city youth council was holding what they called 'Stomp on Main'. For those of you a *little* bit older, a 'stomp' is just a casual dance-you don't have to ask anybody, but they sometimes have slow songs you can go and dance with other people. This city had hosted it for the first time LAST year, and I had gone. Games, prizes, food-it was great! It cost to get in, but if you wanted food that also cost extra.

Anyway, I asked them, "Well, if I threw the party on that Saturday, would you come?" About three or four of them who planned on going to the Stomp on Main said, "Probably." 'Cause we're friends, right?
"Right!"

Well, one friend in particular, whom I've been friends with for about 3 or 4 years, texted me and basically said it would depend on how much 'hate' she would get by not going to stomp on main.

EXCUSE ME?!?!?!?!

I replied, "Well, gee, thanks." And then called off the party. There were many, "Wait! I'll come! I'm sorry!" to which I basically said, "Forget it. Never mind." and I did not throw a party.

Well, the following week after graduation, said friend was going on her senior trip. I didn't text her for a week, because I figured-I'll just leave her alone, she's having fun. She came home, and guess what?! She told someone else, a close mutual friend. This mutual friend said, "Oh yeah, she thinks your mad at her because of the whole stomp on main thing."

YA THINK?

I acted like I was not mad. For the most part, I'm not. I let it go. Honestly, I may never see her again, and fine, good luck to her! Have a GREAT life! I hope things work out for her (I really do). But I was just a smigde-first of all that she'd go and tell someone else! The only people I told were two people I hold dear: my parents. My mom tried to comfort me, and my dad said, "Maybe your friendship is just going that way. Don't worry about it." (Thanks, Big K.) So I had started to let go of it. WHATEVER...


But there it is: I said it, and I'm done (hopefully). Time for me to move on to bigger and BETTER things.... right?

Hope

It's hard to walk out my front door now. There are people lurking just around the corner -I know it- waiting to capture me, torture me, and then possibly kill me. My parents, and unforunately, the world, have made me this way. It is hard to imagine going anywhere without the fear of someone wanting to hurt you, or a car not watching and possibly hitting me. It's scary out there.

Luckily for me, I am LDS-A Latter-Day Saint, more commonly known as a Mormon. I belong to The Church of Jesus Christ, of Latter-Day Saints. It is because I go to church every Sunday that I have HOPE that I will live that day. I have been promised many things-including safety-as long as I am doing what my religion considers as right (whether you do or not, that is up to you). I love my religion. Believe it or not, I enjoy going to church. I don't mind wearing skirts and/or dresses. It's so much fun! (Yes, I just said that).

But more than that, I have received hope in that there are good people out in the world. Like the man who just bought a new home in a nearby city. While looking through the attic, he found $4,500 in cash. Here is the story:

The previous owners of the house, a rather elderly couple, died. They left the house to their six children, who agreed to sell it. Unbeknownst to the children, their parents had hoarded money and left it in the attic. The father, wanting to show his two young sons that there are good people in the world, contacted the children, and asked them to gather (he didn't say why). He then revealed to them the money hidden in the attic.

So, yes, there are good people out in the world. And I just have to do the best. Here is a message, from our Presidency of our Church. Pres. Uchtdorf:




Happy Memorial Day!

Kings and Queens

OK, on the subject of obscure videos, check this out! This is 30 Seconds to Mars, and I first heard them on 'The Kill' (the video, I've heard, is not too good). But then this one came out: 'Kings and Queens'. I LOVE IT!!! I could fly to this song-if I could fly. But I really enjoy this one, seriously.

I'm pretty sure they don't swear in this song, they don't talk about sex/violence (I don't think), and the video is clean! There's one scene that this guy gets hit by a car (he's riding a bike), and it's a little.... loud, and startling, but no blood, no gore-CLEAN!!! I love it. So, here it is:

Kings and Queens!



(PS-the video is like two minutes longer than the actual song, but just FYI!)

Into the night
Desperate and broken
The sound of a fight
Father has spoken.

We were the kings and queens of promise
We were the victims of ourselves
Maybe the children of a lesser god
Between heaven and hell, Heaven and hell.

Into your eyes
Hopeless and taken
We stole our new lives
Through blood an pain
In defense of our dreams
In defense of our dreams

We were the kings and queens of promise
We were the victims of ourselves
Maybe the children of a lesser god
Between heaven and hell, Heaven and hell.

The age of man is over
The darkness comes and all
These lessons that we've learned here
Have only just begun

We were the kings and queens of promise
We were the victims of ourselves
Maybe the children of a lesser god
Between heaven and hell.

We are the kings
We are the queens
We are the kings
We are the queens

Florence + The Machine + The Apology

OK, I don't know what happened last time. I must've been depressed, which is not unusual because my house was in utter chaos not too long ago, and let me tell you, it causes stress and lots and lots of friction. Phew! But it's over now.

Moving on: there is nothing I like better than an obscure music video. So, here we have: Florence + The Machine. This song, 'The Dog Days Are Over' is interesting (to say the least). I like how it sounds a little 80-ish, but still new! I love new music, and, anyway... So, here it is!




Dog Days Are Over
Happiness, hit her like a train on a track
Coming towards her, stuck still no turning back
She hid around corners and she hid under beds
She killed it with kisses and from it she fled
With every bubble she sank with a drink
And washed it away down the kitchen sink

The dog days are over
The dog days are done
The horses are coming so you better run

Run fast for your mother run fast for your father
Run for your children for your sisters and brothers
Leave all your love and your longing behind you
Can't carry it with you if you want to survive

The dog days are over
The dog days are done
Can you hear the horses
Cuz here they come
And I never wanted anything from you
Except everything you had
And what was left after that too. oh.

Happiness hit her like a bullet in the back
Struck from a great height
By someone who should know better than that

The dog days are over
The dog days are gone
Can you hear the horses
Cuz here they come

Run fast for your mother and fast for your father
Run for your children for your sisters and brothers
Leave all your love and your loving behind you
Can't carry it with you if you want to survive

The dog days are over
The dog days are gone
Can you hear the horses because here they come

The dog days are over
The dog days are gone
Can you hear the horses because here they come

More lyrics: http://www.lyricsmode.com/lyrics/f/florence_and_the_machine/#share

It honestly does not get anymore bizarre than that.

What the...?

OK, I am ready to take a stand (I think), so here goes:

I didn't date when I was young(er), but it wasn't a choice-I didn't get asked. I didn't have time, and school was my priority, but I hardly talked to boys.

Well, guess who's ready to date now? Do I have to publicly announce it so people-ahem, boys, will come and ask? I have never, never, NEVER been asked. I'm not necessarily complaining, but it would be nice if I got asked once in a while. Really? Almost all of my friends have been asked, and those who haven't choose not to. But I just feel like a total loser. No, this isn't a cry for help, because I didn't do anything wrong (did I?). Yes, I'm quiet, but I'm not stuck up (I swear!). What's past is past, right? Maybe at one point I didn't want to date, but now, the idea isn't all that appalling to me anymore. Just to go and have fun. (I think this just turned into a pity party.)

But my senior prom is coming up, my last chance in high school to go and have fun before I graduate. Doesn't anyone feel sorry for me? Or am I alone? I don't know, I guess I'm just frustrated, but I don't know what to do to change things. I have changed in the past, too! I cut my hair (ALL OF IT!...practically), I changed my clothes, I'm even wearing make-up now! I really do care about how I look! But nothing... I guess I better be careful what I wish for, right? (Sigh)

Well, college is coming up, and there should be plenty of dates coming up there, right? Please?

Is this thing ON?

Musical Squares

Well, life is pretty boring right now. It's work, work, work, or school, school, school, so I'm not doing much now. Which is OK, I guess, since summer is coming soon enough, and then college. Yippee...

Recently, I joined another blog-Ms. Kristin Cashore, an author. She has two books, Graceling, and more recently, Fire. Personally, Fire was better than Graceling, but they're both really good! Anyhoo, back to her blog-she recently posted a site she loved, claming we would never watn to get off.


SHE WAS RIGHT.

Extremely fun, but unfortunately, I had little time to play the day I read it. But here it is!

Musical Squares

Click a square, then make a picture-if you want. Anyway, enjoy!

PS. Hop on over to congradulate Mindy Gledhill on her trip to Africa, as well as the fact that she expecting her third child. YAY!!!

LAUGH!

It's good for you. I have just been a laughing mood lately, and for those of you who have been crabby as of late, TOO BAD!!! Laugh, you'll feel better, I PROMISE. A teacher actually showed me these two videos-class was long, and his lesson was short, so he had all these funny videos to show. Enjoy!

Don't Judge Too Quickly



Blind Cricket

(: Depression :)

It is very rampant in today's world, and I am so sorry to all of you who are either clinically depressed, or just depressed. It's a bummer when you hit those lows. I, too, have hit them, and it SUCKS!!!! CNN recently did a little spiel about it, and I really liked it. Not only that, they prescribed some meds to brighten the blues.... check these websites out! Sometimes I have just laughed my end off. Then again, some of them I creid because it was so beauitufl! For example, in GMH (Gives Me Hope), I read a sweet little story:

"I worked at a kindergarten, and we were talking about our future careers. I asked a young girl what she wanted to be. She said she wanted to be a doctor, so she could help people. I then asked a young boy what he wanted to be. He told me he wanted to be Prince Charming. Little kids GMH."



OK, so I sorta-kinda-maybe paraphrased, but you get the idea. It's very cute! Anyway, enjoy....

http://www.givesmehope.com/?cnn=yes

http://awkwardfamilyphotos.com/

http://www.tasteofawesome.com/

Whole Wide World

IT'S HERE!!!!!

It's here it's here it's here!!! I have been waiting for this video for a while. I think it was definitely worth the wait. This is Mindy Gledhill's Whole Wide World, and personally, it means you can do WHATEVER you want. No such thing as limits. WOOT!



Whole Wide World
I'm gonna walk a hundred miles
I'm gonna whistle all the while
If that's what it takes to make me smile
I'm gonna walk a hundred miles

I'm gonna run right up this hill
Summer sky or winter chill
If i gotta take a break I will
But I'm gonna run right up this hill

I wanna hold the whole wide world
Right here in my open hands
Maybe I'm just a little girl
A little girl with great big plans

I'm gonna go and take a chance
I'm gonna learn to ballet dance
Learn a little something 'bout romance
I'm gonna go and take a chance

I'm gonna live a crazy dream
Impossible as it may seem
Doesn't matter what the future brings
I'm gonna live a crazy dream


  Chorus

You tell me, "don't try it"
I'm warning you that I won't buy it
All failure is fleeting
I trust it always has its meaning

Chorus

Most (if not all) of the video was filmed here in Utah. ENJOY!

The Wealthy Widow

OK, things are getting better. My kitchen is FINALLY finished (Hallelujah!), and we just have to finish the rest of my living room. Oh goodness... but school is calming down, and homework is better. My social life is now semi-existent, and I'm not as mad at The Big Kahuna for the final college decision as I was. I have changed alot this year. My hair is growing out, and I started wearing make-up. Yes! Me! I guess I look OK, but Mama Bear has had to help a lot. Otherwise, I might look a little desperate (ha ha). Also, I finally got a cell phone. Who knew these things could be so much fun?

I have been paying much attention to Celtic Woman, and let me tell ya! I love their voices, and after watching an interview with each girl (as well as the director, David Downes), I have a new respect and perceptive on this whole singing thing. There is not a chance I could make it with these ladies. NOT. A. CHANCE.


And now, the Wealthy Widow.

English Translation:
Curfá:	Chorus:
'Sí do mhaimeo í, 'sí do mhaimeo í	She's your granny, she's your granny
'Sí do mhaimeo í cailleach an airgid	She's your granny, the hag with the money
'Sí do mhaimeo í ó Bhail' Iorrais Mhóir í	She's your granny from the town of Iorrais Mór
'S chuir-feadh sí cóistí 'r bhóithre Chois Fharraige	And she would put coaches on the roads of Cois Farraige
'bhFeicfeása 'n "steam" 'ga'l siar Tóin Uí Loing'	If you'd see the steam boat going past Tóin Uí Loing'
'S na rothaí gh'l timpeall siar óna ceathrúnaí	And the wheels turning speedily at her flanks
Caithfeadh sí'n stiúir naoi n-uair'ar a cúl	She'd scatter the store nine times to the rear
'S ní choinneodh sí siúl le cailleach an airgid	But she never keeps pace with the hag with the money
(Curfá)	(Chorus)
'Measann tú 'bpósfa, 'measann tú 'bpósfa	Do you reckon he'd marry, do you reckon he'd marry
'Measann tú 'bpósfa beirt ar an mbaile seo?	Do you reckon he'd marry by two in the village?
Tá 's a'm nach 'bpósfa, tá 's a'm nach 'bpósfa	I know he'll not marry, I know he'll not marry
Mar tá sé ró-óg 'gus dólfadh sé'n t-airgead	Because he's too young and he'll drink the money
(Curfá)	(Chorus)
'S gairid go 'bpósfa, 's gairid go 'bpósfa	We'll soon have a wedding, we'll soon have a wedding
'S gairid go 'bpósfa beirt ar an mbaile seo	We'll soon have a wedding by two in the village
'S gairid go 'bpósfa, 's gairid go 'bpósfa	We'll soon have a wedding, we'll soon have a wedding
Séan Shéamais Mhóir agus Máire Ní Chathasaigh	Between Séan Séamais Mór and Máire Ní Chathasaigh
(2x)	(2x)

Mr. T

All right, not much has been happening. School is almost out, and I am so excited to be graduating. It is about time.... really. I love school, but at the same time, I'm done. I'm not sure what I'm going to blog about, so this will go all over the place... probably.

Recently, I've been peeved about germs. I don't know if it's because it's the 'flu season', or if it's just a phase (yes, I have been through one of those before). But I've noticed how often I wash my hands. About a year ago, I started working at a local animal clinic, and was cleaning. Blah. Cleaning, like I didn't do enough of that at home. But a job was a job, and I had the opportunity to move up and do something I actually wanted to do, so I took it. I have been given a few more liberties because of that job, and literally thank God every day for this job. Sometimes it's stressful, coming home at 10 (10!) PM, and everyone is in bed. My bedtime is 9, so it was not strange, but a little... hurtful. Nobody waited for me. And after a certain experience a little more than a year ago, I had a hard time falling asleep if somebody else wasn't there. So I took to sleeping downstairs in my brother's bedroom (also, construction is going on upstairs).

My brother, Mr. T, is roughly two years younger than I am. We all get a long fairly well (there are three boys, and one girl-Me), and with him, my relationship was just...different. And again, each relationship with each brother and/or every family member is different. He was a more...philosophical brother. And a realist. You couldn't give him a situation, even in joking, where he didn't pull it apart. "Well, technically you can't do that because..." or "That's impossible. That defies every natural law." I am usually a calm person, but it just bothered me so much, and I would just turn around and say, "Mr. T.... IT'S JUST A JOKE." But he had a twisted sense of humor.

But he would come to me looking for advice. ME. ADVICE. What could I do? I was good at listening, and fancied myself well at keeping secrets: I never told anyone a secret, unless I knew it was okay. Even then, I knew there were some things that you just did NOT talk about unless it was one on one with that person and their secret. So he talked. He told me memories I didn't remember, and he had a perspective that was just different. I loved him for it.

He also got deep into our religion (LDS). We always came home from church on Sundays, and over dinner, discussed things about church. Then he would bring up topics that NO ONE understood what he was talking about. We would just sit there with our mouths agape (yes, agape) until he finished. "What did you say?" He would turn to his food, slightly blushing and say, "sorry. It was just brought up in Sunday School today." Amazing. He's a genius, but not always street smart. Mind you, he was born a blond.

So here I am, babbling about my baby brother, and I'm sure you don't care. That's OK. What did I expect from the world wide web?

Ting Tings

OK, seriously? Personally, that's a pretty dumb name. I have looked up the bio, and supposedly, it is based on the noise the cymbal makes... whatever. They're good (for the most part), and I like 'em, but the name... ugh...



So here is: "That's Not My Name"

This is not the original music video, however, the band redid it, and I like this one better... sorry about the swearing...

That's Not My Name"

Four letter word just to get me along
It's a difficulty and I'm biting on my tongue and I
I keep stalling, keeping me together
People around gotta find something to say now

Holding back, everyday the same
Don't wanna be a loner
Listen to me, oh no
I never say anything at all
But with nothing to consider they forget my name (ame, ame, ame)

[Chorus:]
They call me 'hell'
They call me 'Stacey'
They call me 'her'
They call me 'Jane'
That's not my name
That's not my name
That's not my name
That's not my name
They call me 'quiet'
But I'm a riot
Mary-Jo-Lisa
Always the same
That's not my name
That's not my name
That's not my name
That's not my name

I miss the catch if they threw me the ball
I'm the last chick standing up against the wall
Keep up, falling, these heels they keep me boring
Getting glammed up and sitting on the fence now

So alone all the time at night
Lock myself away
Listen to me, I'm not
Although I'm dressed up, out and all with
Everything considered they forget my name
(ame, ame, ame)

[Chorus]

Are you calling me darling?
Are you calling me bird?
Are you calling me darling?
Are you calling me bird?

[continues with chorus overlapping]

Stress

OK. Life (for me) sucks at this point in time. Momma Bear decided "This kitchen sucks. Let's get a new one." We tore up the floor and put tile down, which still needs to be sealed. Then, we put in new cabinets. The guy doing it for us is WAYYY super nice, and he decided to shoot himself (it was an accident-honestly) with a nail gun. He was rushed to the hospital, and is OK from what I hear. We are praying for him, because he most certainly didn't deserve it. Anyway, our kitchen isn't done, and my mom is now done with it NOT being done. She's driving me crazy.

As if that's not enough, my high school graduation is now approaching. Goody. This means a run for us to find money to go to college, and dad says I can no longer leave our state, and must study at least one year here. Fun. I was so excited to be moving out. I love my family, I really do, but I'm done with inter-family drama. Really, people... really?

So that is my exciting life for the past month or so. The computer is back up, but again, for who knows how long? It could be days before we have to move it again. I guess I better be getting my $%@# together.... gag. Anyway, that's why I haven't been around as of late. I hope you are faring WAY better than I am... I'm not sure I would wish this on my worst enemy. Until happier times....

Not much time-computer is down at home... wil contact soon.... signal fading...

Dragons

So, I'm sure most of you have heard/seen one of the most recent movies out-'How To Train Your Dragon'. It is now my most favorite movie! I especially love the soundtrack (I'm an Irish/Scot fan). I could literally listen to it all day. The best movie...EVER!!!!

I have always dreamt of flying... to be in the air, and feel that wind on your face! What I wouldn't give to be up there with the tweet-tweets (aka, the birds). That'd be so cool (don't you think)!

Plus, think of all the neat-o wing designs you could have!

Bird's wings (feathers)...

butterfly wings (color swirlies)...

or even dragon wings (just plain ol' leather style)!

There are tons of other wing designs, too! (Can you tell I wanna fly... REALLY BAD?)