Friday, December 31, 2010

End of the year recap

With only one day left of 2010, I have been thinking back on what has happened these past 364 days. So, for this post I have decided to take an inventory of some of my favourite 2010 moments.


celebrating two years with the most amazing man (even though we were 2500 km apart)
discovering my life motto
learning that I actually love spinach
realizing that I love my life
discovering many more movies to love
hanging out with my favourite kiddos
getting sweet, thoughtful gifts from my guy
falling in love over and over again
photo shoot with David
EFY: week one and two

Making this list, I realized that despite what I often think, 2010 has been a pretty good year. I had a lot of  troubles this year, but I had a lot of good times too. Thank you to everyone who helped me get through my toughest year yet. 

Thursday, December 30, 2010

"Is this a movie?"

No matter where I go with my girls -- especially Candi, it is always an adventure. Last night was no exception. The play was fantastic! We had great seats (first row in the centre of the second balcony) and the actors did not disappoint. I love the theatre ("the theatre, the theatre, what's happened to the theatre?") and love being apart of that collective experience. And it was a joy to share it with Candi. We've decided to make it a new tradition, and Marni you are welcome to continue the tradition of footing the bill!
From the hilarious conversations behind us ("is it over?") to trying to determine the relationship status of the boys next to us, it was quite a night.

Fifteen

Ah, beautiful 30th of December. I love the end of the month. By now we should all know what it means when we reach the 30th.
Justin, our favourite missionary, has been gone for fifteen months. Fifteen! That means that in nine months, he will be home! Just one more "mission-baby", as mom calls it. Yep! We are in the single digits, my friends! Single digits! I never thought I could actually make it this far! Well, I knew I could I just wasn't sure how much would be left of me. Apparently I am still alive and hope to be in nine months time, so I can give this guy the biggest hug ever!
(NYE two years ago -- we're such babies!)

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

"We're off to see the Wizard!"

For Christmas, my favourite sister and brother-in-law got me two tickets to see "The Wizard of Oz" which is in Calgary this week. I love live theatre and was sad I found out this one was coming too late to save money for it. So, it was a very lovely surprise to unwrap those tickets.
And I get to take Candi with me, so I'm extra excited about that! Earlier this year, in January, I took Candi to see "Fiddler on the Roof". Perhaps this will become a new tradition?


Wednesday Wisdom

I apologize for the lack of wisdom the past few Wednesdays. I promise to be better!
Today, I decided to show how to wear a scarf.
(Update: I made another video because the other was a little messed up with the audio. Enjoy)



Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies

I finally finished it last night. I've been reading this one since the beginning of November, but because of school and other distractions (like starting new books --  I have a sickness, I know) I wasn't able to finish it yet.
So, how was it? I actually quite enjoyed it. There were moments where I wondered what Jane Austen would think of this take on her timeless classic, and others where I was in a fit of laughter.
Overall, I appreciated it. It was quite humorous and I feel like for the most part, the integrity of it remained intact.
This will however be my last venture into the world of re-written classics -- it's a little over done these days!

 

p.s. Book club members, I hope you enjoyed/are enjoying our pick this month. I'll post discussion questions at the end of the month. Happy reading!

NYE Looks

New Year's Eve is right around the corner, and despite my lack of plans for that night, I thought I would try my hand at creating a few party looks.

Look number one: for the classy gal who only needs her LBD and a pair of great pumps to ring in the New Year (this would be my choice for a more sophisticated evening out on the town).



Look number two: for the more daring gal who wants a punch of colour and prints (this would be my choice for a casual NYE party).




Thoughts, please!
 

Monday, December 27, 2010

Fashion Inspiration

Even though my hair has grown quite a bit in the last year, I am still aching for longer locks. Like the lovely Leighton Meester. That girl rocks the loose curl like none other.
I have my fingers crossed very tightly that my hair can be this long soon (like this time next year?)


p.s. I am off work for the next three days, so prepare yourselves for more blogging, friends. 

"I think I like today, I think it's good"

It has been a good day.
Work was good, and the day went by pretty quickly.
I got my usual lovely e-mail from my dear and got to chat back and forth for twenty minutes! It was splendid.
I finally made a decent poached egg.
"Breakfast at Tiffany's" was on TV tonight.
I finished "Pride and Prejudice and Zombies" (I will post a review tomorrow).
And now I am sitting, wrapped in my favourite blanket watching "Pride and Prejudice" (the Keira Knightley version, as I don't have time to watch the BBC right now -- perhaps tomorrow?)
Oh, and I don't have to work tomorrow. Lovely.

Sunday, December 26, 2010

Happy Christmas

Happy Christmas, friends (yes, a day late but it still counts!)
I hope Santa was kind to everyone!

With love from me to you!
ps: Only five more days left of 2010! FINALLY!

Friday, December 24, 2010

Christmas Present

It is Christmas Eve, and I am happily sitting in my kitchen, watching "Confessions of a Shopaholic" (thank you, Marni and James), eating chocolates. Loverly, isn't it? Yes, it is.
And even more loverly (yes, I am intending to type loverly), is that I received a package from California today. And inside I found a tape. A tape with my man's voice. Seriously, this was the best possible present I could get this year. And it came at the perfect time. I needed to hear that sweet voice. I needed to hear that chuckle. I needed to remember what it was like. And now I do. I feel like I have something to believe in again, and it is wonderful.

I love being loved. 

Monday, December 20, 2010

It's Christmas! Let's Be Glad!

Christmas is in five days. That's right. FIVE DAYS!
Like I said to Justin in my e-mail this week, sometimes the days seem to go by turtle-slow and others, it's "Sonic-the-Hedgehog" fast. Today, realizing that Christmas is five days away (almost four) makes it feel like time is actually kind of speeding up. And I am certainly happy about that!
I love the Christmas season and all that it brings. I love the egg nog, the carols, wishing people a "Merry Christmas", the movies, the family time. I love celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ. It is just such a beautiful time of year.
Tonight, for my ward's FHE, we went to see the Nativity Pageant at Heritage Park. It was really good, as usual (and really cold too). There were a lot of changes to it this year as well, so I would recommend everyone go to check it out! You will not be sorry, I promise! 


Sunday, December 19, 2010

Fashion Inspiration

I mentioned that Marni and I went to see "Life as We Know It", starring the lovely Katherine Heigl. I adore her! Every time I see her movies, I come away finding something new about her style that I love and wish I could pull off myself.
Exhibit A:


I love the hat. Love it. I am a little scared to try it, but really want to. Hopefully the fedora will still be in style this coming summer and my hair will be long enough to make it look decent. 

Saturday, December 18, 2010

Brief relief

I feel the need to breathe a giant sigh of relief right now. I finally finished school this week and handed in my final papers Friday. I had another unmotivated semester and am glad it is over. I am looking forward to January and what it will bring -- especially since I have had some major wakeup calls in regards to my education and am looking forward to a semester where I actually put forth some genuine effort. 
I was sick yesterday, and unable to go to work (well, I could have gone, but that would not have been fun), so I did some sleeping, extremely quick (and uninspiring) essay writing, and movie watching. Thank you Will Ferrell for keeping my spirit light. "Elf" was just the cure for my blues last night. That and a cup of chicken noodle. And a warm blanket. Mmm.
And today after a very, very busy day at work (my busiest yet -- I was on cash for nearly my entire shift), and a frustrating shopping adventure (try to find a nice black skirt and jewel-toned top -- not easy!), I got to escape the world for a little while and enjoy a movie with my sister. We saw "Life as We Know It" and it was wonderfully charming. I laughed, I cried, and cried and laughed. 
Before my relief turns into stress again tomorrow, I shall enjoy my Christmas music and a little light reading ("Pride and Prejudice and Zombies" -- a joy!). 
xo

Thursday, December 16, 2010

Top 9

Christmas  is in just nine days, so I thought today I would share my top nine Christmas songs for this week. They all great, and I am sure you will be beaming with Christmas spirit by the time you are done listening. Enjoy. Seriously, your ears will thank you for it.



Get a playlist! Standalone player Get Ringtones

Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Happy birthday to you!

Twenty-two years ago, one of my very favourite people was born. It's Candi's birthday today, and I needed to dedicate a special post to this very special woman. Candi is not only one of my very best friends, she is my distant cousins, so our bond is pretty strong. Besides my siblings, she has been my longest friend and I look forward to many more decades of friendship. I could go on for hours and hours detailing all of our many adventures (the safety pillow, zee cute boys, Phase 10, dance parties, vegetables, etc), but I will save your eyes the length and just say that having Candi as my life long friend has truly been a blessing.





And just for you, Candi... 


Happy birthday, Can-di! 

Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree

I know it's Christmastime when I hear this song. I love it. It definitely makes my heart happy every time I hear it.

Also, it reminds me of Home Alone. So great! 

Tuesday, December 14, 2010

Bob and Doug's "12 Days of Christmas"

I love Christmas carols and songs, and thought I would share one each day until Christmas. Sounds delightful, doesn't it?
Today, I am sharing one of my very favourites, Bob and Doug Mackenzie's "12 Days of Christmas". (I am not a fan of the animated Bob and Doug, but it was the best video I could find). Enjoy!


Merry Christmas, hosers!

Sunday, December 12, 2010

I Get a Kick Out of You

Today is Frank Sinatra's birthday. 95th! I bet they're having a really good party in heaven. I wish I could be there! But, since I can't (which when you consider that I would have to be dead to attend, is a good thing) I will celebrate here. Frank Sinatra Christmas? I think so!


Happy birthday, Ol' Blue Eyes! 

Saturday, December 11, 2010

David Dudley Photography

I am perpetually in awe of the creativity and talent that surrounds me -- especially in my own family. My brother is a photographer. A very good photographer. He has a gift for capturing the moment within the picture. When David takes a picture, it's not just random colours mixed together -- it's a story.
Good news for all of those (most likely all of you!) who want to hire David for a session, or even order some of his prints -- he has just set up his professional website. Do it. I promise, your life will be better for it (plus your eyes will appreciate the pretty things to look at).

Impressed yet? You should be. Just looking at this picture makes me feel more alive. 

ps: check out his blog

Friday, December 10, 2010

Newest Obsession

My heart is squealing with excitement right now. I am in love.
I have taken an extra fancy to interior design lately, and am loving everything to do with decorating my home. When I discovered one of Jonathan Adler's books at work today, I was slightly intrigued and made a mental note to pick it up sometime soon, and then just now I discovered that Jonathan Adler has a store, with pretty, pretty things. Beautiful beds, potteryrugs, pillows, dinnerwarelamps, mirrors, bedding, picture frames ... you get the picture. My mind is exploding at this very moment with love. Seriously.
I love the bold colours, the amazing prints. Ah! It is fantastic. Just one small problem: I live in the wrong city! If only I lived in Newport Beach or New York (it is in my plans one day though!).
The items are just slightly out of my current price range, but I am happy for the inspiration.

jonathan-adler-bedroom.jpg
A-ma-zing! Right? My dislike for orange drops significantly when I see this beautifully decorated room. I love it! If only I had realized four years ago that I wanted to be an interior designer!

Thursday, December 09, 2010

Wish

In case you wanted to know, here is what my eyes are drooling over this Christmas season:

A vintage style cake stand. Here.



This beautiful camera. Here.

Cities, set of three prints

These prints. Here.



This beauty. Here.



This scarf. Here.



This book. Here.

I could probably go on forever, but there is a brief look into my wishful thinking mind.. you know, in case you fancied knowing what I'd like under the tree?

Ending Start

I detest the end of semester. Detest. Yes, I meant to use that word. I know that it is a harsh word, but I need to use a harsh word.
For me, end of term means papers upon papers, stress upon stress. Numerous times this week -- and perhaps even more times today I have wanted to quit school, move to an island and never look at another book again. Crazy I know, because we all know that I adore books, but this is what end of term does to me. I hate it.
Every time that I have to write a paper, especially term papers, I procrastinate. A lot. I try to avoid writing as much as possible, and then when I finally have to give in and write, it's like I am being sentenced to the torture chamber and must go through the worst of it.
Perhaps I am being slightly dramatic, but this is how it is. December 16th, you cannot come soon enough!

Wednesday, December 08, 2010

In Memoriam

Thirty years ago, one of the greatest songwriters of all time was killed. Thirty years ago today, John Lennon died at the age of forty. So young!
Today in memory of the great John Lennon, I listened to some of my very favourite Lennon songs. "Imagine", "Instant Karma (We All Shine On)", "Jealous Guy", "Real Love"... you get the picture.
John Lennon left a great legacy and I will forever be grateful for his amazing music.

Monday, December 06, 2010

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

We all know that I have infinite love for the great Jack Johnson. And Christmas. Put them together, and what do you get? Christmas carols that are realistic! And beautiful too.
Jack Johnson's "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer" is one of my very favourites, especially with his ending. If you don't know what I am talking about (and even if you do), then you need to listen to it right this minute. (Just press play and enjoy, it's that simple).

Sunday, December 05, 2010

Old Enough

I am realizing more and more that I am growing up -- whether I like it or not. I often don't feel old enough to have friends married, or having babies. It seems strange to think that I could be married in less than two years, and starting that chapter of my life.
This feeling of "not being old enough" is pretty strong right now, especially with my newest calling. Today I was called to be the Relief Society President of my YSA ward. It is such a huge responsibility and I am terrified! Our last president was so amazing. I have really big shoes to fill!
What I have learned this weekend is that prayers are answered. And also that Heavenly Father knows my potential, even if I myself can't see it.
I just need to remember to take really deep breaths. In. And out.
"Keep calm and carry on", right?

Saturday, December 04, 2010

Book Club: December Pick

Thank you to M and Holly for voting on this month's book. For those that wish to join, we will be reading Charles Dickens' classic, "A Christmas Carol". It's a really short read (just over 100 pages), so hopefully you can find some time to add a little joy to your holiday.
Happy reading!
xo

ps. I posted some discussion questions for November's pick, and would love some feedback!

O Christmas Tree

This is just for you, Laura.

Last night, I bought myself a Christmas tree. I have always wanted a little tree in my room, but just never found one that I liked. But now that I am a little older, I have felt a great desire to have one. Plus, mom says I am "nesting". I am ready to have my own house, but because I currently lack funds to do so, I just try to decorate my parent's house here and there with little splashes of "Kristi".
I love my Christmas tree and look forward to using it for many years. Plus, I am in love with my ornaments. They are festive, but funky too -- with lots of glitter.




I love Christmas!

Friday, December 03, 2010

Book Club: Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Discussion

Okay reading buddies, let's discuss!
It's been quite the busy day, so I haven't given much thought to this questions, but here it goes.

1. Let's start with an easy question. Did you like the book? Why or why not?
2. How does the final chapter in the Harry Potter series compare with books 1-6?
3. Did the in-depth study of certain characters (ie. Snape, Dumbledore or even Harry, Hermione, etc.) change your perception of them? Or did you remain true to your original feelings prior to reading?
4. Does the book end with enough closure? Or did it leave you wanting more?
5. Did you also see the movie? If so, how did you like it (or dislike it) in comparison with the book.

I'd love your feedback!

Happy reading.
xo

Thursday, December 02, 2010

A Little's Enough

Last weekend, I found mini-muffin pans on sale. I couldn't say no, especially since I have been dreaming of making cute mini cupcakes since my friend's wedding reception in October. So, tonight when I got home from school, I decided it was time to try them out.
Behold the finished product:

I love making cupcakes. 
And thank you mom for letting me use your beautiful camera -- now I know for certain that I NEED to get my own (wink wink -- Christmas is soon, remember!). 

Wednesday, December 01, 2010

Wednesday Wisdom

About a week ago, my brother posted something on his photography blog that made me think. He talked about the fact that we all have knowledge that can be shared with others. He was talking about photography, but it hit me in the broader sense. In my twenty-one years I have acquired a little wisdom -- whether it be the proper way to structure a sentence, how to make nearly perfect buttercream icing or how to wear a scarf (when I worked at Reitmans, I was asked this question almost daily). I've thought a lot about how I can share my knowledge, and it came to me yesterday while sitting in my Institute class: Wednesday Wisdom (yeah, I'm a sucker for alliteration).
Today, I will share my recipe for buttercream icing. This is a recipe from my mom, but at times I will modify it to achieve different results.

4 cups icing sugar
3 Tbsp. milk
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup shortening
1 tsp. vanilla
1/8 tsp. salt (optional -- I rarely use it)

First, you will need to cream the butter and shortening in a mixer until smooth, then add the vanilla. Next, add the sugar -- but only one cup at a time! (Otherwise it's super messy and won't blend very well). Also, make sure that you scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl to get everything. Add the milk and blend until completely mixed and smooth. If you want to colour the icing, add your colouring in and mix the icing a little more to spread the colour evenly. Make sure to cover the bowl with a damp cloth to avoid drying out.
This recipe will give you great icing that is yummy and super creamy.
If you want more of a vanilla taste, add one or two extra teaspoons to your mix. It won't affect it too much, but you will notice a slight difference.
Also, if you don't want to make as much icing, you can reduce the amount of sugar, but you don't necessarily need to reduce the other ingredients. I did that once, and it still turned out quite good. The icing was much more creamy that with the extra sugar, and took a little longer to set, but it was still quite good!

Happy baking! If you try it, let me know what worked for you!


Another tip: if you have icing left over (as you probably will), do not throw it out! Instead, spread some on graham crackers or soda crackers to make a little cracker-icing sandwich. Best treat, trust me!

Tuesday, November 30, 2010

Book Club: December Ideas

Tomorrow it will be December, so I figured it's probably a good time for me to give some ideas for December's book pick. I have chosen six possibilities, which you can vote on. The book with the highest number of votes will be December's book. (Click on the titles for a summary).

- Emma by Jane Austen *
- Bel Canto by Ann Prachett
- Half Brother by Kenneth Opel
- The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society by Mary Ann Schaffer
- A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens *

Now do your duty and vote! (I will accept votes until Friday and will choose a book after).

ps. I will post some discussion questions about the November pick by Thursday (sorry that I'm a little behind!).

* = I have an extra copy incase someone needs it.

14

Fourteen months. It has been fourteen months since my dear, sweet Justin started his mission. I am realizing more and more each day that these two years is not my entire life and that I have a lot of growing and learning left to do.
Just ten more months (just over 300 days!) and I get to see my man again. I'm just a little bit excited.


Approximately sixty weekends without a date  is worth it if I get to see that sweet smile and bright blues again in about forty-two weeks. 

ps. just thirty more days and we are into the single digits! Did you just hear strange high pitched scream? Yeah, that was me

Sunday, November 28, 2010

Thanksgiving

When I am married and have kids, I want to be the ideal homemaker. I want to have a perfectly decorated home, with well behaved children -- boys who look just like their father, and maybe a girl or two that look like me. I want to cook healthy dinners every night, and have fun with my family. I want to sew beautiful things for our home and make homemade Halloween costumes for the kids. I want to make pies and cakes just because and scrapbook all the important family moments.
Sure to some this may sound like a delusional dream, but it's not to me.
I am trying to practice my skills, so as I mentioned before, I planned a Thanksgiving dinner for my family tonight. All together there were eleven of us (me, mom, dad, Marni, James, David, Carla, Granny, Papa, Uncle Marsh and my good friend Chantelle). Our table was pretty crowded, but we still had a lovely time. I love being with my family -- especially when we are sharing delicious food! (Thank you to mom and David for prepping the turkey and dad for the gravy!)
I also tried my hand at making pies. Not so easy. But, I learned a lot from my first time and look forward to trying it again soon. I forgot to get some pictures, so just use your imagination of what my project looked like. 
I am really so thankful for my family, and am so excited for the day when I will have children of my own that I get to share my life with. 

ps. Two Thanksgivings will probably be a tradition in my family now. I love it!
pps. Comments? I'm starving here. 

Saturday, November 27, 2010

C-C-C-Cinnamon Lips

For about a year, or maybe more, I have had a slight obsession with red lipstick. I loved it on other people, was terrified to try it myself. For months, I would buy a new red gloss or lipstick, put it on, look in the mirror, and then promptly take it off.
One day, however, I decided to leave it on. And apparently it worked. Though I am still a little unsure that I can rock the red like Lauren at busybeelauren, I like to think it doesn't look horrendous.
Anyhow. On Sunday, I was feeling festive and a little gutsy, so I wore my very favourite shade.
Red lips always make me feel pretty, and like I am living in a different decade, which of course I love!

Friday, November 26, 2010

Clarification: Response to "Lessons"

After reading the comments I received from Monday's post, I felt the need to clarify. I wasn't meaning to be down on myself. Yes, there are times that I compare myself to others in such a way that it makes me feel inadequate, but that wasn't what was going on in my head Monday night. It was more of comparing my current situation the that of others. I was reminded Monday night that I have a really great life. I have wonderful friends -- seriously amazing girls that bring me up when I am at my lowest. I have an amazing family, a good job, a boyfriend who loves me (even if he is far away), the promise of a university degree somewhere in my future. Anyway. I just wanted to clarify that I wasn't having a pity party and wasn't trying to solicit comments. However, I must thank my mommy and Sarah for their sweet words. Thank you. And thank you to those in my life that remind me daily that I have much to be grateful for.

xo

Thursday, November 25, 2010

Create

I love to create. I love to make something out of nothing, to make something unique out of the ordinary. For a long time, my creative outlet of choice has been writing (exhibit a: this blog). But, besides that, I have another beloved pass time: scrapbooking. I love it. I love finding cute papers, and embellishments and making my memories more precious.
Tonight, after a stressful day of thinking (yes, my mind stressing me out more than anything else), and a trip to Michaels to get some goodies (and to see Candi), I had this overwhelming desire to create. I needed some way to get rid of my stress, so I headed downstairs, found a few papers, a picture and began.
This is what happened:
(ignore the glare from the light above). When I found this picture of Riley (my cousin's daughter) tonight, I couldn't resist. She is too precious. She's pretty serious in this one, but this is one silly little lady. Ask her to say "Kristi". Apparently that is the the most comical thing to this girl. 

Thankful

Despite what some Canadians may believe, it is okay to celebrate Thanksgiving more than once in a year. Personally, I think it should be Thanksgiving every day, but I'm not sure how the government feels about that. I suppose we need to work sometimes, right?
I suppose part of my desire to celebrate American Thanksgiving this year (we are having dinner on Sunday -- I am excited!) has to do with my favourite boy celebrating in So Cal. But, part of it is also because it's an excuse to be with family, make pies and focus on what I have been blessed with.
So, to my Canadian and American friends alike: Happy Thanksgiving!

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Oh, and ps: my body needs to find a new home before it shatters from the cold!
I love Calgary, and it is my home. But, it would be kind of nice to skip the winter boots and jacket and -30 weather.
Suggestions for a place to move?
I'm thinking Australia. Or California (of course!).

"An attitude of gratitude"

I have been meaning to start a "gratitude journal" for many years. But, for some reason or another, I never actually did it. However, after a lovely intimate "FHE" last night with my favourite ladies, I decided it was time. So, I bought myself a pretty journal and today was day one. I am really thankful for so many things in my life. I have been blessed immensely and I need to be more aware of it. Also, I have been lacking in the journal department for quite some time, so this will act as that (since this blog is a type of journal, as are my letters to Justin).
What are you grateful for today?

Monday, November 22, 2010

Lessons

I tend to learn my lessons over and over and over again. Apparently I have a very poor memory when it comes to things like life lessons. The lesson I am learning tonight: do not compare yourself to others. This is the hardest for me to overcome. I have always had issues with it -- whether it was my sister being able to do things because she was three years older, or girls getting married who are much younger than me. I can only really know what I need and what is best for me (though I guess I don't know that most of the time). Hopefully I will figure this out one day.

ps. I know you are reading this. I miss having comments.

Sunday, November 21, 2010

Harry Potter

Dear Harry Potter, I love you. A lot. Can we be best friends?
I just got back from seeing the movie with Marni. I have determined that I need to expand my vocabulary, because the words I have used to describe the movie (awesome, amazing) just don't cut it. The movie, to take from Harry himself, was "brilliant". Please do yourself a favour and go see it! I am quite certain that if you are a Harry Potter fan (book-wise or movie-wise), you will LOVE it! And if you don't, you're probably dead inside.
That is all. Goodnight.


I am quite certain that I will have difficulty sleeping for the next eight months, because I am so, so excited for part two! 

ps. I have decided that Harry Potter movie marathon will be mandatory before July 15th, as well as a midnight screening. Who's in?

Friday, November 19, 2010

Reading speed

I have never been a fast reader. I did not get that gene. My sister seemed to have gobbled that one up before my time, so there was only "moderate-slow" reader left for me.
Marni and I are going to see Harry Potter tomorrow night (yay!). But, I haven't finished re-reading the book! As part of my book club this month, and in preparation for the movie I started reading it at the beginning of the month. But, with school and work taking up most of my time and leaving me drained I usually don't have much eye-power at the end of the day to read. Hopefully I get can in the last, umm... 500 pages? in somewhere between now and 9:30 tomorrow night.
I love Harry Potter, by the way. I am so excited! (Though kind of nervous, because I get bad anxiety watching suspenseful movies -- even when I know what is going to happen).

Tuesday, November 16, 2010

More dreams

I had another very strange and vivid dream last night -- or actually this morning, I guess. Slightly Harry Potter related again, but this time my dream companion was Patrick Jane (Simon Baker, "The Mentalist"). We were in a bad situation, and he tried to cast a few spells to get us out. Strange indeed. My dreams have been haunting me all week. Little tid bits come to me during my day and I desperately try to interpret and explain them. But, no such luck.
On a happier note, I got a lovely letter from my lovely missionary today. I miss him!
Hopefully I will have something more interesting to say tomorrow!
Goodnight.
xo

Monday, November 15, 2010

Hair: Opinions, please!

I'm getting a much needed trim on Friday. I'm not planning to change up my hair that much, but my bangs do need a little something.
This is what I'm thinking:

Yay or nay?

or 
Should I go for the whispy-ish, or the thicker full bang? I'm a fan of both, but would love some opinions. 
Alexis or Anne? Rory or Andy? 

Sunday, November 14, 2010

Dreams

It's funny how the small things in life can seep into your dreams at night. I find that I often dream about a song I was recently listening to, or a book I'm reading, or a TV show I was recently watching. I guess that is normal, but for me, the unusual happens with the context.
For example, last night (or this morning), I was dreaming about Voldemort -- I mean He Who Must Not Be Named -- being in my school. I'm not sure if it was my high school or if we were at Hogwarts, but Voldemort was there. I was terrified the entire time, but knew in a way what was happening, because in my dream mind (do you have one of those too?) I knew that after a while, Voldemort would get angry and leave. It was a very strange dream, and as I told the bits I remembered to a friend this morning, I realized how silly it was.
My brain is certainly a funny place.

I don't particularly enjoy Voldemort, but I do enjoy these three. So they shall replace him in picture today. Only 5 more days until the movie is out! 
 I feel like my childhood is really coming to a close with the end of this brilliant series. 

Saturday, November 13, 2010

Fragments

Scrapbook supply shopping. Sleeping in. Jeopardy. Card making. Christmas shopping. New yoga mat. Road trip. Road trip playlist. Taking pictures. New tights. Harry Potter. Great work out with my work out buddy. Snail mail. Recipes. Missionary scrapbook supplies. Christmas music. "Hello, Dolly!".

That is my weekend in fragments. I love having a few days off to relax and take some time to myself, and to spend time with my big sister. I will be back at it on Monday, class on Tuesday. Apparently you can never escape it.

Tuesday, November 09, 2010

The Sound of Music

Last week, the cast of "The Sound of Music" were guests on Oprah, in celebration of 45 years since its release. Mom, being the wonderful mom that she is, PVR'd it for me. It was splendid. And since then, I have been getting my "Sound of Music" fix anywhere I can get it. First, I found the soundtrack on iTunes and promptly bought it, and listened to it. Over and over. And then tonight, I watched it. And let me tell you, it was wonderful.
I have loved this movie since I was a wee one and will continue to love it for the rest of my life. 
As I was watching it tonight (for the first time in maybe two or more years), I realized how much was lost on me when I was a kid. I liked the music, and wanted desperately to be one of the Von Trapp children, but the historical and political issues of the film meant nothing to me then. Now, older and wiser, I get it. It's just funny how that happens. I actually find that a lot now, re-watching movies or TV shows I watched when I was a kid. I realize now that I didn't know anything then, and most things just went right over my head.
Anyhow. I love "The Sound of Music". A lot. It means a lot to me, and I will forever cherish. I am so excited for the day when I can share it with my children! 

Monday, November 08, 2010

"This is Louis, Dolly!"

I'm pretty sure that I have mentioned just a few times how much I love music. I have shared my love for the music that calms me, motivates me and gets me through my toughest days.
Tonight, I am listening to the amazing Louis Armstrong. I love him. Love.
Seriously. He does something to my heart. I can literally feel my heart grow with happiness.
So, friends, please do yourself a little favour and listen to my friend Louis. (You can never go wrong with the classic, "What A Wonderful World" or a little "Hello Dolly").


Sunday, November 07, 2010

Book Club: November Pick

Hey, friends. So I have decided that for November, the pick will be Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (since the movie will be out in twelve days!). If you want to read along with me, please do! And if you don't want to, I won't be offended. Just join me next month! Check back later for some discussion on the amazingness that is Harry Potter.
Also, if you have suggestions at any time for a book, let me know!
Happy reading!

Progress

My hair, believe it or not continues to grow! I thought it was about time to document its progress.
I am so excited to see what it will look like with another year of growth!

Curly. 

Straight. (Yep, that's the California Republic flag behind me. Dad is lending it to me while I search for my own.)

Friday, November 05, 2010

Count Your Blessings

It is nearly ten o'clock, and my bed is calling my name. But first I need to share a few thoughts.
It is November 5th, and yet it was almost 20 degrees all day. I could hardly believe it when I walked to the bus stop this morning, wearing my lightest spring jacket, and I did not feel the slightest chill. It was almost surreal. I am so glad that fall decided to hold on a little longer. They say today was the last nice day we will have, so I am thankful I got to enjoy it a little bit.
I find when times are tough, I need to count my blessings even more and focus on the good. Sometimes that is really, really hard (like right this moment), but I know it is needed.
Let's count my blessings, shall we?


1. I have a home.
2. I live in a beautiful country.
3. I am in love.
4. I have a wonderful family.
5. My legs still work, even after I make them endure intense exercise they weren't used to.
6. I have amazing friends.
7. I am fortunate enough to be getting a good education.
8. I have a job that I actually enjoy.
9. I am a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
10. My ears work, and allowed me to listen to the wonderful sounds today.


That feels a little better. My heart is still hurting a little bit, but I am constantly reminded that I can do tough things. And friends, so can you.
xo


Blessing #3. 

"So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end."
Remember this tee? I had nearly forgotten about it, then received the much anticipated e-mail that it was back in stock (in a slightly different style)! And now it is on it's way to find me! I'm just a little bit excited.


nerds need love too tee in stripes

Thursday, November 04, 2010

All is Full of Love

I love reading NieNie, and every day that I do, I come away inspired and in awe of Stephanie's love for her family and love of life. Today, she said something that really struck me, and made my eyes a little wet. I had to share:


"Love is what changes trying times into bearable times, and hard moments into a good learning moments."


Reading that, it was if my heart agreed and exclaimed, "Yes! Yes! That's it!". I completely believe that love conquers all. I have seen that in my life. When I want to quit and can't see how anything will ever change, I remember the love that I have in my life -- whether it be the love of my family, Justin or the love that my Heavenly Father and Saviour have for me. Love is all you need. I know that.