Rear Window

Merry Christmas Everyone!

2009-12-25T19:33:00.004-06:00

I hope you all are enjoying a wonderful Christmas with your loved ones! This is a duet that Jared wrote for he and I to play together at our Christmas program last week. I'm always in awe of his talent to create such emotion in his music--it's even more beautiful knowing the One who inspired it. I'm so blessed to have a brother who can provide this beautiful music for me to play!

Love you all!

I Can't Decide Which is Funnier. . .

2009-12-21T22:13:00.010-06:00

The fact that Mom and I went to the zoo--trying to get some exercise--with venti Starbucks, or that fact that we were trying to get exercise with the camera. Counterproductivity abounds.

We may not be the best at working out, but we could make Starbucks ads, right?

Trying to get creative shots is a lot easier said than done...especially when it's just Momma and I....alone...with no one to stifle our uncontrollable laughter and calm us down. We tried--but can't you just see the sarcastic seriousness in mom's eyes?

It didn't take long for us to succumb to the alluring scent of "spaz".

I'm learning that Mom likes to climb things.

Like trashcans...

...and random wooden poles...

I think Bernard had had quite enough of our noise--he looks annoyed.

Chimpanzee looks good on her, don't you think?

Now I realize....being fat is the LEAST of my worries. I'm going InSaNe!

My mom's recalling of the day (and more crazy, spastic, and slightly deranged photos) can be found on her blog. Enter if you dare. ha!

I Can See His Name in Lights...

2009-12-19T01:27:00.005-06:00

We borrowed "Veggie Tales: Larry Boy and the Bad Apple" from the library the other day, and Harry absolutely LOVES the Larry Boy theme song at the end! Too bad his shirt was a disaster from the chocolate chip cookies he ate, but somehow he always ends up looking adorable anyways. ^^

Power Stance

Here come the skillz!

Oh yeah...I'm awesome

Please note that DURING this photoshoot, Harrison kept pausing the video and telling me where to go to take his picture, then he would purposefully pose for the camera. Afterwards, he would run to me and demand "I see! I see!", taking the time to chuckle at all of his studly poses before returning to his dancing--I think he knows how cute he is. lol.

P.S. I didn't win the Divine Caroline Blog Award, but thanks so much for all of your votes! Thanks to you I managed to stay within the first three pages of entries through the entire contest! Rock on, my friends! ^_^

Winter Zoo Tales

2009-12-16T23:52:00.005-06:00

The fam went to the zoo today--it was an odd time of year to go weather-wise, but we just lingered extra long in the heated indoor exhibits. Momma and I have noticed that zoo trips are about 32 BILLION times as fun since we've had a good camera! So, without further ado...here is my photographic documentation of the day.

This is Harold. Harold is my adoring frog prince. Every time I looked into the tank at him, he stopped swimming around and sat just like this in front of the glass, staring at me. And to think...the other day I was saying that frogs were gross! No siree...this frog is undeniably dashing.

Mohawk Merlin--check out the feather-do! And those fantastic eyes.

Is this not the weirdest looking turtle ever?!

The Chinese alligator, to my utter delight, took a swim right next to the glass; as if posing for the camera. Ah beauty.

Speaking of beauty...my mother looked dreadfully adorable in her new coat and hat.

And I was going to close with Tweety's (um...I meant Porky Pig's. Lol) "*whateverwhateverwhatever* THAT'S ALL FOLKS!", but as you all know (now), I can't even start to say that. So, I'll close with a humble...

"Good evening."

Freedom in Self Control

2009-12-14T00:05:00.004-06:00

But when the Holy Spirit controls our lives, he will produce this kind of fruit in us: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness, and self-control. Here there is no conflict with the law.
Galatians 5:22-23

Sometimes I feel like spontaneity is my greatest ally. Somehow just doing something is refreshing--rather than planning it out, poking around, procrastinating, re-planning it, and then changing my mind altogether about it in the end. Isn't that just an unneeded hassle in life?

I can honestly say, at this very moment I feel more at peace than I have in months. I don't have anything nagging at the strings in the back of my mind, I don't have anything weighing on my conscience, and I'm not stressed out. And you know what's happened because of it? I'm more efficient, I'm more fun, I think clearer, I'm more creative, I'm more motivated, I feel more in tune with my family, and I don't always feel distracted. What an amazing feeling that is!

I went out with my momma this evening...we went to see "Julie & Julia". I realized why I was watching it just how lucky I am to have a mom who has encouraged me to always simplify rather than over-complicate. I mean, how many moms would be able to spur of the moment jump in the car and go see a movie? And if we weren't doing that, we probably would have been sitting at the dining room table laughing our way through a game of Boggle. It's people like my mom that keep this world alive. New York City would just be another busy, grumbling metropolis; Kansas would be another brown, boring spread of flatlands; and the list goes on, if it wasn't for people like her who can keep the beauty of ordinary things alive.

And you know what...a richer life means more of this!

Life. is. Sweet.

So then, why do I try to over-do everything? One of the fruits of the spirit is self-control...and on my part, I think that's been fairly ignored. I've realized that I often make excuses for myself because "it's just my personality", but that's not a legitimate excuse. The only excuse for lack of self-control is not giving Christ all control. I go through these weird times where I think I can conquer the world; not surprisingly, that's always when I end up feeling the smallest. Because everything that I am...everything that I yearn to be...and everything that I need to be to achieve my goals is found in Christ.

Don't just hum it...Live it...

2009-12-10T15:24:00.005-06:00

Laughter...

Solemnity...

Random outbursts of awesome dance moves...

Isn't it amazing how music can prompt such a variety of responses? I was listening to Alexandre Desplat's brilliant score for New Moon the other day, and I was surprised to find myself--in the midst of doing my school--aching on the inside from the pure power of the music that reached my ears and moved straight to my heart. I've had experiences like this before...it just never ceases to amaze me how something as simple as a combination of instruments and ingenuity could produce such a moving product.

I've written several posts and poems about the power of music before...our affinity with it...our relation to it...and so on. What has been striking me as particularly interesting lately is how each melody is truly a reflection of a character--whether it be the person who created it, the story it is portraying, or a combination of the two, there's always a very definite sense of humanity in it.

I don't think this is just true for the works that elicit deep and passionate emotion--I think this is true for every aspect of music. The lighthearted, as well as the complex. Almost like the contrast between eye colors; one person might have crystal blue eyes while another has black--neither is more profound, but the wide spectrum of colors all connect to the soul in relatively the same way. It's beautiful.

“A melody is not merely something you can hum”
--Aaron Copland

Decking the Halls & Fun Christmas Traditions

2009-12-08T18:35:00.006-06:00

Well what do you know...I got my sleeping quarters and my blogging quarters decorated on the same day! ^_^ I decided that this year I wouldn't do the Charlie Brown display--you know what that looks like...lights hanging from the ceiling on long strips of tape, beads strewn here and there, etc. Nope...I've done that a bunch of times, and this year I decided I would try to decorate a tree for the $15 that I had. Thank goodness for Dollar Tree!

We have an old 5 foot tree that my family used when I was a baby. It's got a lot of quirks (for instance, it stands slightly tilted), but I rigged it to stand fairly sure of itself. I bought several packs of red, green, and gold ornaments at the Dollar Tree, and then went to Wal Mart for a pack of 400 lights (because who wants those cheapo lights that don't last more than a week?). In the end, I spent $16 on everything, and I think it turned out so well! I love it.

I decided to put my shoes underneath it...makes it "me".

Now, my mom is doing a link up on her blog of Christmas traditions. Of course, she mentioned a bunch of the ones that we practice as a family, but I'll just mention a few more here.

We stay at home

- I think we can all agree that Christmas is absolutely best when spent in a familiar and comfortable place...so, when we can, we don't leave home on Christmas day.

Read the Christmas story

- Jesus is the reason we celebrate Christmas, and it's so beautiful to be able to share that with my younger siblings as they're getting older!

Looking at Christmas Lights

- Every year, my family picks one day to hop into the van together--maybe with a tub of caramel corn or some other holiday treat--We listen to Christmas music, and drive around looking at various and beautiful Christmas displays.

Reminisce about past gifts

- Jared and I do this more than anybody. We'll dig through his media shelf and pull out random things that Mom's gotten for us in the past. It's traditions like this that make things like Ratatouille (mine ^_^), The Office, & Shrek Christmas classics.

Watch classic Christmas movies

- Mom mentioned this, but there have been a couple of recent additions to our Christmas movie list that are definitely worth mentioning. We love Shrek the Halls, and Merry Madagascar! All of that cheeky animated movie humor is just completely awesome. And Veggie Tales shall rule forever.

Oh! Guess what...it's finally snowing! It started this morning, but it's going again now. I'm hoping it'll get deep enough to get some pretty pictures. :)

Welp...that's all for now I think. Lahaaaater peeps!

Isaiah 9:6b

His Name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The Mighty God, The Everlasting Father, The Prince Of Peace.

How awesomely fun are these?!

2009-12-07T16:57:00.004-06:00

You know what's great about the holidays?

I've been enjoying reading for the first time in a long time. I love all of the autumnal wine colors and all of the beautiful sunsets. Oh, and we all got a FUN package in the mail the other day. Can you guess what was inside?

Well...I'll bet you've figure it out by now. Aren't those hats just TOO fun!? I LOVE them. I can't get myself to stop wearing them.

Want one?

Well, my lovely friend Alexis has just started an Etsy shop for all of her adorable hats, scarves, and other crocheted goodies, and right now she's doing a giveaway on her blog!

All you need to do to enter is give her some good name ideas for her blog. She's got some extra entry opportunities too, so make sure you stop by and enter as many times as you possibly can...especially for you photography junkies out there--*wink*--they make EXQUISITE props! ^_^

Short Answers is NOT over!

2009-12-03T23:32:00.002-06:00

Yay! I'm so happy! Short Answers is not gone forever! Wouldn't you know it...God worked it all out just perfectly. So, from now on, Short Answers will be hosted here. I hope you'll all continue to participate...I certainly will when I can! :)

So....snow is in the forecast for next Tuesday!!!!!

That's fantastic, except my guess is that it won't snow, and we'll have multiple frigid days before the white bliss finally makes its way to the ground. :( Oh winter...where art thou sweet essence?

Oh...speaking of snow...and *giggle* Christmas, I'm getting ready to make over my blog Christmas style! I just finished up my momma's too. Want one??? Check out my prices here.

Just so you know...I think my brother looks like a Land's End model...is that weird?

What? Am I lyin'!? He totally does!

Picture This...

2009-12-03T00:12:00.007-06:00

You're walking down a brick sidewalk; you can hear yours and several others' heels hitting the ground as you walk. You can see your breath in the air, so you pull your seasonally colored scarf closer to your face as you quicken your pace, heading towards your favorite coffee shop at a street corner about two blocks away.

As you enter the modern, sleek, and still inviting building, warmth floods your being, sending a rosy color to your cheeks. You wait in line just long enough to make the never quite made up decision between something old and something new. You settle on the new holiday special--a triple shot peppermint mocha with unnecessary chocolate shavings on top that somehow just make it that much more appealing.

Sipping the liquid comfort, you open the glass portal to the outdoors, which now feels about half as cold as it did before. The sun peeks out from behind a tall building, sending warm rays down to meet your skin. With a renewed vigor in your step, you charge onward to your ultimate destination--the charming little book store which conveniently is only one block and a crosswalk away from your previous stop.

Approaching the store, you see a young boy turned backwards on a wooden bench and perched up on his knees so he can see inside the far window--a large and detailed toy train chugs along a world of cotton balls and tinsel on the other side of the glass. Taking one last look at the adorable curly haired child, you step inside and are greeted by the sound of a bell ringing above your head and saxophone lazily, beautifully ringing through the speakers across the room.

Welcome to my mind...my home...

As long as I have my imagination, I don't care if I live in the flatlands of Kansas, the metropolis of New York, or the thick forestry of Washington. I have a home...and it follows me wherever I go.

I know you're getting sick of this, but...

2009-11-30T22:26:00.004-06:00

I'm pooping out on my meme again. Why do I always do this? Well, honestly I think if I had more time I would be better with these things...but having to think of all of the Short Answers questions, and then ask them to my brothers every week(Jonas doesn't like being asked random questions) is just a lot of work.

Besides those reasons though, I've really been trying to simplify my life. I'm cleaning things up so that I can have more time for what I really want and essentially need to be doing.

So, (don't hate me, Alexis!) I'm going to have to do one of two things--either give up Short Answers altogether, or hand it on to someone else. If anyone's interested, let me know!

On another subject...Harrison is OBSESSED with Scooby Doo! It's really too adorable. ^_^ He never wants to watch anything but the Scooby Doo movies--and I'm not talking about the old cartoons; I'm referring to the new, real people ones. Anyway, this kid is insanely good at role playing! We had a new humidifier set up in the living room the other day and Harry found it rather mysterious.

So, he checked it out...

...and he found the evil mastermind...

...and then Velma appeared on the scene just in time to proclaim an earth shattering "Jinkies!"

I love that little man. ^_^

P.S. There are only 4 more days to vote for me on the Love This Site Awards...so, any last minute votes would be AWESOME!!! ;) Thanks peeps!

By Body & Soul

Abundantly Blessed

2009-11-27T00:54:00.006-06:00

My little stud-muffin...

My charming little man...

My sweetie--the only two year old I know who has posing down to a science...

My crazy and beautiful sissy...

My loyal brother and fantastic friend...

My little sister Anna, whom I will see again when I enter Heaven's gates!

My spastic and totally fun mother...

My imaginative and hilarious daddy...

My wonderful extended family...
All of you are amazing...I don't have a pic of all of you together, but you know you're loved. ;)

My precious violin...

Photo courtesy of my momma. :)

My Father's beauty everywhere I look...

And all of you...

These are a few of the things I'm thankful for, and they're all mine because of the person that I'm most thankful for--my Father and Saviour, Jesus Christ!

Happy Thanksgiving everybody!

Orchestra Concert etc.

2009-11-24T23:18:00.008-06:00

So, after much trial and error...I FINALLY got my orchestra videos to work! Yay! These three videos make up the full performance, but if you don't want to hear the whole thing, you should at least listen to the last one. It's too fun!

I admit...I've got the after orchestra blues. We turned our music in directly after performing on Sunday, and the sense of loss was felt as I handed it over. All of the reminders I'd scribbled in between the lines...all of the notes which I'd spent hours and hours learning, memorizing, practicing...all of it was gone, and in a few months I won't remember how to play those pieces. It makes me terribly sad to think about--but, we're getting next semester's music sometime at the end of next month...I can't wait to see the trial and triumph that await me! It's going to be fantastic.

Oddly, I think one of my very first motivations to work harder with the violin was when a small blister formed on my neck. I know it sounds weird...but it was my first moment of pride. The first time I felt like I'd practiced enough to pat myself on the back. It's really an adrenaline rush when you can feel yourself working and getting better. The correlation between hard work and success is intoxicating.

But enough about that--I'm sure my family's getting sick of hearing about the violin. heehee. This is my hundredth post on Rear Window. That's nifty.

And this is just really random, but I had to show you this precious picture I got of JoJo. :))))))

*sigh* I love my family.

Oops

2009-11-24T00:57:00.003-06:00

I completely forgot about Short Answers last night (again)! So sorry everybody! I was so caught up in trying to get my orchestra videos on my computer that I spaced it. And I haven't even gotten the videos to work yet...so my brain is just evil right now.

Well, I'll post with something substantial later on...like perhaps my orchestra videos (that is, if I can get them to work). *sigh* Later peeps!

A Sweet Autumn Day

2009-11-21T20:18:00.004-06:00

I've always thought I was the type who always "stopped to smell the roses"...but how often is that really the truth? I caught myself the other day doing just the opposite of that. I tend to get caught up in my "important" projects, and I really just forget to care about the other stuff.

Well, the other day, after a little prompting from my momma, I headed outside to spend some time with my little bros, and I felt so refreshed and rewarded after I did it.

Harry has no problem expressing himself in front of the camera. I've never seen such a free spirited two year old!

There's nothing cuter than a little boy's dirty shoes. ^_^

He's got Momma's affinity for nature!

Silas and Jonas showed me their "fort" (made of sticks and branches) in the woods...they're pretty next level if you ask me.

My orchestra concert is TOMORROW! I'm extremely excited! I'll tell you all about it in my next post. ^_^

Christmas Time Has Commenced

2009-11-20T23:40:00.004-06:00

I seriously appreciate all of your amazing comments on my last post. :) They are so special to me, and I just want to give you all a big hug for being so sweet! Love you all!

On Thursday, we put up the Christmas tree...same as every other year for the past 5 years, in honor of Anna and with her picture sitting nearby. We all felt a sense of melancholy I'm sure, but the tree is always something we look forward to. It's a time to blast Christmas music and get kind of crazy with experimental vocalizations--to have an excuse to be overly sentimental--and most of all, to remember and realize the sweet feelings, memories, and sensations that Christmas always brings...wait...does that go along with shameless sentimentality? heehee.

Isn't it PRETTY!?

Some people would probably say it's a little messy...we've never been the type to have uniform ornaments or a color scheme, but it looks like kids decorated it, doesn't it? And to me, that just makes it all the more special. ^_^

Forever...

2009-11-18T23:45:00.006-06:00

Five years ago today, my heart was crushed. . .
my first conscious breath in the morning was taken with sobs. . .
my stomach felt like regurgitating every emotion it bore the burden of. . .
my shoulders, back, neck, ached from the pain in my heart. . .
my fingers stroked my sisters hair for the last time. . .
my eyes saw her skin, fair and flawless under the pretty pink dress that adorned her sweet frame--
laying inside of her bed of white and grey. . .

Five years ago today, my family & I had to say goodbye to my beautiful little sister.

I never mourned so deeply. I never thought a young girl's heart could hurt as much as mine did, but from the first day without Anna, I did see something--I saw the love in my mother's eyes when she saw her children hurting. I saw the love in my daddy's arms as they wrapped around her trembling frame. And I recognized the love in my Heavenly Father's tears as I realized they fell for me--for me and my family.

And slowly, Christ gave us the strength to uphold one another once again. He held our hands, He spoke words of comfort through His Word, He gave us things to be excited and joyful about...but most importantly, He gave us His eyes--and suddenly we could see victory in the pain...a bright and stunning Light at the end of the darkest cavern we could have stumbling through.

Five years ago today, I felt pain. . .

But now,
I've been inspired by a life. . .
I've aspired to be more. . .
I've loved deeper and stronger than I could have ever hoped to in my own power. . .
I've seen more beauty than pain. . .
I've been in the pit, so I can recognize the mountains. . .

And the sun still shines.

Forever changed. Forever touched. Forever joyful.

"Look! Look! Up in the sky! You're lifted off the ground into the silver lining. Look! Look! This is your day. This is here and now. Don't let it slip away."

"Silver Lining", Danyew

To see more pictures of Anna, visit my momma's blog.

Short Answers and...

2009-11-16T21:15:00.007-06:00

RELAXATION

I need me some of that...
I've got an orchestra performance this Sunday, and I've been working like CRAZY to be ready for it. Besides that, I finally got my license last week! Yay! So, needless to say...I've been very busy. Should I take up yoga? *taps chin thoughtfully* Hm...

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What are the benefits of going green?

Silas: What do you mean?
You know like doing stuff that’s good for the environment.
Umm…envilo-o-n….what? What does environment mean?!
Um, it’s like the atmosphere, like nature.
What’s the nature of the color green?

Jonas: You already asked Si that. *raises hand* RAIN! Right!? *grins really big* When grass has lots of grey dust on it, rain can spill all of the dust off.

How do remote controls work?

Silas: Ok, there’s this flat green thing with thorns that stick up, and um…um….an orange cord, an white cord, a blue cord, and a red cord, a silver cord, a couple more whites, another blue, and another red…and um….batteries, aaaaand Jonas would say electricity wouldn’t he? *giggles*

Jonas: Batteries.
Right, but how do they work?
A machine, right?
Yeah, but how does the machine work?
I don’t know. I’ve never broke a control and looked in the machine. You plug it in. You get this machine thing, you put the batteries in, and then there’s a giant cord and it plugs everything in. That’s a machine, right?!

Where do they make Coca Cola?

Silas: Coca Cola? You mean like the pop? Yup. Lots of places. Um, let me see. McDonalds, um…ummmm…what is it? Kwik Shop, aaaaaand uuuuumm….*sigh* let me think. I don’t know…that’s the only places I know. OH! And uh, Pizza Hut!

Jonas: Um…water?
Yeah, but I said ‘where’.
Out of the thing.
What thing?
New York? Is that true, New York? POP! Starbucks!

If you had to define your mom in one word, what would it be?

Silas: Hm. Mom. *laughs*

Jonas: One word? What do you mean? Say it slowly.
*repeats question*
M-O-M-M-Y.

What about your dad?

Silas: Dude. *does the Vulcan “live long and prosper” sign with his hand*

Jonas: D-A-D-D-Y…and then D-A-Y….no wait, don’t do that. Do this…D-A-D. And then it says Daddy after that. I’ll tell you how to write it: D-A-D-D-Y.

Daydreaming

2009-11-12T23:58:00.004-06:00

You know those days when somehow all day you've been making unrealistic plans for your future? Well, I've been having one of those days. I've been daydreaming!

I want to one day become a brilliant violinist and play my brother's beautiful music in an orchestra...

I've fashioned up a lovely theme for my wedding day, I'll wear a brilliant pair of Converse high tops and have a vintage style wedding. I want my groom to wear designer jeans, and I will be wearing something like this.

I wish that someday I could live somewhere by the beach. I would loooove to live on the coast. :)

Oh, I know most of that will probably never happen...but daydreaming is so much fun sometimes! It's no wonder kids do it so often--when there's nothing pressing on your mind, sometimes there's nothing more entertaining or thrilling than dreaming up the future. So, there's my inner 5 year old for the day! :)

Thanks for bearing with my ooey gooey-ness...I think I should write Hallmark cards, eh? Well, Hallmark cards for the strange and bizarre sentimentalists of the world--Ok, not much of a market. :P

Aaaand I'm ramblings...

Nasty Headache and Short Answers

2009-11-09T21:04:00.003-06:00

Hello my lovelies...well, tonight I have not much to say. I have a killer headache, and sleep is calling my name. =_= So, I'll leave you with Short Answers, and hopefully I'll be all better tomorrow so that I can come and visit you all! :)

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What’s better, butter or cheese?

Cheese.
Why?
Because it’s more cheesier.

Not cheese ball, but cheese.
Why?
Because I hate cheese balls.

How are donuts made?

Flour. Mr. Sprinkles. Aaaaand…syrup. Sugar. And white frosting. There.

Sugar…right? And flour. Ok, the flour and mixed to dough, and make the dough round, and put some sugar on it and put it in the oven.

Why do the trees change colors in the fall?

Because it’s more cold, and they dry out.
Ok, but why does that make them change colors?
Because it dries them out and then they start changing colors, that’s why!

Because…Because I don’t really know about that.
Do you have a guess?
Huh-uh. Except for one…because it’s cold, right?

What do broccoli, carrots, and cucumbers all have in common?

You mean, what do they all taste like together?
No. What do they have in common?
Well, carrots are similar to…broccoli pretty much. And apples. They’re not sweet like apples, no they are sweet like apples they’re just not…yeah.

What does that mean?
Like, how are they similar?
Similar? What does similar mean?
It means like the same.
Ok, pickles and pickles?
No *repeats question*
Greens in one…and more greens in one…and more greens and more greens. Broccoli is actually greens, right? Mangos, they put stuff inside what’s sugary.

What’s a tapestry?

What’s a tapestry?
I’m asking you.
I don’t know.
You have a guess?
Uh…tap dances. Is that right?

What’s a tapestry?
I’m asking you. (again)
No way! What is a tapestry?
Do you have a guess?
Nuh-uh. Is it something you eat?
No.
Is it something you get arrested?
No.
Is it something you make?
Kind of.
How do you make them? I don’t even know what a tapestry is!

Going the Extra Mile

2009-11-08T23:38:00.004-06:00

Last Christmas I discovered a new obsession. It's not that I hadn't thought about the possibility of the endless intrigue and devout experimentation this obsession would possess...no, I had thought about it many times, but thus far I had not had the opportunity to develop that interest.

My new obsession was...

The Rubik's Cube

I have been working on solving the cube for hours and hours at a time ever since that morning last Christmas. I haven't read any tutorials on how to solve it, I didn't get it with a manual...I've been flying freestyle.

At first, I thought it would be thrill enough to be able to solve the Rubik's Cube--how awesome it would be to show people that I could solve the infamous puzzle that had stumped so many! I was tempted so many times to settle for the pattern that some fellow geek on YouTube had discovered. I had even googled instructions, and slapped myself right before clicking on a result. The thing is, the longer I focus on finding my own solution, the more I become bonded to the idea...determined.

I find this similar to my walk with Christ. When I first accepted Him into my heart, I didn't care about all of the little details--the important thing was that I had a Heavenly Father and Savior! This fact remains true, but as I grow older and stronger in Christ, I want more and more to develop my own beliefs and reasons for believing things. This is one of the reasons that I'm SO thankful for my parents. Who better to help me discover the biblically sound rules, and the ones based in traditions of men? Who better to help me sort through the schizophrenic spasms of my mind?

I want a solution to the problems I share with the world...but I don't want it to be Luigi's solution...I want it to be mine and Christ's. Similar to the relationships between an earthly father and child, I believe my relationship with Him is unique--He has particular things to impart to me; talents, wise sayings to recycle on listening ears, hard lessons, and answers to the problems that life throws at me.

My Rubik's Cube is still in the works, but I'm learning the resolution, one small step at a time. And when it's all over....serenity.

Determined

“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood, who strives valiantly; who errs and comes short again and again; because there is not effort without error and shortcomings; but who does actually strive to do the deed; who knows the great enthusiasm, the great devotion, who spends himself in a worthy cause, who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement and who at the worst, if he fails, at least he fails while daring greatly. So that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.”
--Theodore Roosevelt

Wait....Your Baby?

2009-11-05T23:35:00.003-06:00

It's been fairly common knowledge for the last several years that I absolutely ADORE Mustangs (like the car...not the animal). When I was 11, I wanted nothing more than a brand new, hot pink, Mustang convertible. A year later, I decided that a nice canary yellow Mustang GT was much more my speed--take note, I still get goosebumps when I hear that lovely engine roar to life from some nearby parking lot. At the ripe age of 13, I decided the vintage 'stangs were my favorites. Specifically, 1967, pink. In case you haven't noticed...I was obsessed with pink for a good majority of my preteen and early teen years.

Well, by the time I was 14, I had given up any hopes of ever getting my own Mustang. It's fun to dream, right? But it just wasn't realistic.

Hm....I was right on one account. I still don't have a Mustang....but my big bruh does! My awesomely amazing grandparents bought Jared a car! How awesome is that!?

No, it's not mine, and I can live with that. The important thing is that I get to drive it. *evil laugh* Ah my minions...my evil plan is unfolding so perfectly.

As for me...I've gotten over the idea of my dream Mustang...I've decided to focus on the far more realistic idea of a completely restored '67 Chevy Impala....black of course. Is that too much to ask? ;)

My Momma and I....

2009-11-04T11:59:00.000-06:00

....are having a COMPLETE BLAST figuring out photography! The last few days we've been able to take family pictures for two of our family's friends, and its just been so incredibly fun!

I never realized how much I enjoyed photography...but lately, it's been an incredibly enjoyable thing for me. As a matter of fact, I decided to start up a photography page! The link is on the top of this blog, but you can visit it here. I'm so excited for you all to drop by and let me know what you think about the pictures I've gotten so far!

On another note...do you ever have those strange experiences that just make you laugh your head off, and then they end up being inside jokes for years? Well, I've got one of those.

(...a bunch actually, but that's not important right now.)

OCTAGON!

Yes Mom...I know you're reading this, and I know you're laughing. Everyone else...I know you're all wondering what the heck is so funny about octagons. Well, nothing is funny about octagons, but the other night my mom and I got on a roll with playing weird made up dice games. At one point, we were seeing how many rolls it would take us to get a Yahtzee (5 dice of the same number). At first, we were just counting normally, then that got boring...so we got on the floor and my mom started using different words for each number (e.g. uno, twa, thr, quatro, etc. etc.) So, we were chuckling then, but for some weeeeeird reason, the thing that made us laugh hardest was when she said "octagon". I mean, we weren't just laughing...we were rolling around on the floor, ribs aching, tears flowing, unable to breath, laughing. Why???????

????? I honestly couldn't tell you. I think the rest of the family thought we were going insane...but anyways. It's a good memory right? So, I leave you with this epic and incredible video of awesomeness.

The Best Things in Life Aren't Things...

2009-11-03T00:11:00.005-06:00

...but the greatest thing about life is that God even cares about that! I just can't quit marveling at the idea that Christ knows and cares so much that He even arranges the extra little things for me.

You know what my Heavenly Daddy did for me?

He gave me Star Trek Voyager season 2...what's more, at an affordable price. I know so many of you simply cannot relate to that particular topic, but I have to tell you, that pretty much made my weekend. I found it in the middle of the Wal Mart electronics section. For the longest time I just stood there, staring with mouth agape at the DVD pack that held many of my childhood friends and memories. I was literally shaking as I hurried to finish up the rest of the grocery shopping with Mom so I could get home and revitalize my inner trekkie. Oh dear...it felt amazing.

So...I kinda sorta forgot about Short Answers again today. *sideways grin* But I figured instead of canceling altogether, I would just post all of the questions for YOUR kids to answer, and I'll post my brother's answers later on. Sound good?

...Good, cuz it's happening. heehee.

To grab this post banner, click here.

If you could meet anyone on earth, past or present, who would you choose?

If you could be really good at one thing you're not very good at right now, what would it be?

What's the best dream you ever had?

What are the four basic food groups?

What's the difference between a cow and a bull?

Edit: Oh my word....I was SOOOOO tired when I was writing this, I think I made about a million goofs--one being that I forgot to put on the link up! Gosh. Thanks Charlotte for reminding me! Now, you should all remind me not to post at 1:00 am anymore...okie doke? heehee.

A Fun Giveaway! And Friday is the New Thursday

2009-10-30T00:25:00.015-05:00

Hello my lovely friends. Remember my friend Christina @ Pooh's Corner and how she made "100" using 100 candy corns for me when I reached 100 followers? Well, it seems she has an affinity for candy corn, because she's got a fun idea for a giveaway on her blog, using...you guessed it....CANDY CORN!

Here's the best part....Christina is giving away 3 prizes, and one of them is being saved for one of my personal minions. How awesome is that!? All you need to do is head over to her blog, tell her you're visiting from my blog, and guess the number of candy corns in the jar on her latest post. Whichever one of you is closest to the correct number of candy corns wins a prize! Fun stuff, right? Don't forget to tell her that you're visiting from my blog!

Now go and join in on the fun!

Now...I know I'm a little late for this, but it was just too fun and I had to join in. My friend Marissa @ A Peek Into My Life hosts this fun meme called Quirky Thursdays.

To join in, click on the button above.

This week's topic....

Your top 6 (or just 6) of your favorite characters from a movie.

You all know how I love movies. *giant smile* So, here goes! (In no particular order...)

(1) Mr. Edward Magorium from "Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium"

I don't think there's ever been a more inspiring character in movie history--not to say he hasn't been matched, but he's definitely special. He has this distinguished wisdom about him, but its buried beneath a childlike exterior. Overall, I think Magorium has the perspective on life that I strive for.

"Life is an occasion....rise to it"
Mr. Edward Magorium

(2) George Banks from "Father of the Bride"

One of the most real characters in any movie that I've seen. Sentimental is probably the best word to describe him. His sarcasm is trademark to the nervous closure of one chapter of life, and progression into the next. Aren't we all like that?

(3) Lucius Hunt & Ivy Walker from "The Village"

I know that's two, but can you seriously separate them? I've got to admit...to those people who find Pride and Prejudice to be the most romantic story of all time--The Village tops the list for me.

Ivy Walker: When we are married, will you dance with me? I find dancing very agreeable. Why can you not say what is in your head?

Lucius Hunt: Why can you not stop saying what is in yours? Why must you lead, when I want to lead? If I want to dance I will ask you to dance. If I want to speak I will open my mouth and speak. Everyone is forever plaguing me to speak further. Why? What good is it to tell you you are in my every thought from the time I wake? What good can come from my saying that I sometimes cannot think clearly or do my work properly? What gain can rise of my telling you the only time I feel fear as others do is when I think of you in harm? That is why I am on this porch, Ivy Walker. I fear for your safety before all others. And yes, I will dance with you on our wedding night.

*sigh* :)

(4) Shrek

Um...need I say more?

(5) Roy O'Bannon & Chon Wang from "Shanghai Noon" and "Shanghai Knights"

I know I know...I'm just breaking the rules left and right--but it would be a CRIME to split these two up! Jackie and Owen...how much better could you possibly get?

(6) Clark Kent from "Smallville"

I was never a fan of the whole Superman franchise, but then I discovered Smallville. I've got to hand it to the people who made Superman, the alien, into a relatable Kansas farm boy! (P.S. I am aware that this is not a movie...but TV shows officially count.)

Aaaaand there are about 10 googillion more, but there are the 6 that were required of me. :D

Later Peeps!