A Work in Progress...

Movin' the Blog

2011-09-25T23:30:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone!

Just a quick note to let you all know that I will no longer be posting on this web address.

If you still want to see what I've been up to, check out my new blog, here!

My New Favorite Thing

2011-09-19T21:14:00.000-07:00

Hello Blogging World! Long time no post.

This is going to be short because I'm already exhausted (and it is only 9:15).

I have this app on my Google home page that give me "Art of the Day" even though it refreshes and gives you a new piece of art whenever you leave the website. ANYWAY, I saw this and froze. She is gorgeous. The lines and the colors - not to mention the texture the piece (oil on canvas is one of my favorite mediums).

The piece is Boreas by John William Waterhouse, painted in 1902:

When I first saw it, I thought it looked vaguely familiar, but I knew I had never seen this before. So, I googled John William Waterhouse and figured out why this looked familiar. You may recognize this beauty:

Lady of Shallot. (This always reminds me of that scene in Anne of Green Gables.

Once I googled John William Waterhouse, I found SO MANY pieces that I love. I don't want to post them all, because that is ridiculous, but here are just two more that I wanted to share:

My Sweet Rose

and, finally, Ophelia

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. A great find.

2. I'll be blogging about my recent trips to Seattle. Someday. Soon. Ish.

3. Seeing Blue October in concert yet again. Chelsea and I sat down and figured out that we've been seeing them every 6 months for the last 2 years. I hope we can keep it up!

4. I bought a MacBook Pro and I LOVE it.

5. My new ergonomic keyboard for work. HEAVEN.

Naomi Anne

2011-07-20T21:35:00.001-07:00

For those of you who didn't hear the spectacular news - I have another niece!!

Naomi Anne was born on 12 July 2011 at 3:30am(ish). She weighed 8 pounds, 3 ounces and was 20 1/4 inches long! From what I hear, everything went well!

Congrats to Dan, Ashley, Hannah, and Rachel! I can't wait to meet you, Naomi!!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. All of my nieces. I can't stand being away from them.

2. Mary Martin's Peter Pan. Holy cow, I love this movie. I'm watching it now and can't stop laughing.

3. I'm surrounded by pictures of people I don't talk to anymore. Must remedy this.

4. Maureen O'Hara. She has to be the most beautiful, classy woman ever to grace Hollywood.

5. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (the book and the movies). Seen it twice and can't wait to go again!

Skipping Through the Rest

2011-07-18T06:00:00.000-07:00

Before I start giving you all the last day's activities, I did promise an update on the cemetery - it is St. Patrick's Roman Catholic Cemetery in Leytonstone. MILLIONS of graves (at least, that's what it looks like...). See?

Day Seven

Our last full day in London. How depressing.

Once we got into central London, we headed to the British Museum and skipped around. We didn't have a ton of time in the city and I wanted to see the museums - as much of them as possible within the one day we had. We stopped at the Rosetta Stone and the Egyptian History sections, then headed over to the Greek and Roman bits.

And then we found the clocks. My life will never be the same.

Once I was able to be pried away from the clocks, we headed over to the National Gallery and worshiped the likes of Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, Rembrandt, and Durer

. I got to see Madonna of the Rocks by Michelangelo and good ole Arnolfini.

I can't get over the sensation of being within touching distance of multitudes of pieces of art that you dedicated 5 years of your life studying (I was a humanities minor with a penchant for artwork in particular).

I could smell the paint, see the brushstrokes - admire the ludicrous amount of paint that Van Gogh insisted on having on his brush at all times.

When I die, I want God's vocabulary.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Apparently, the National Gallery doesn't let you take pictures inside anymore. Woops.

2. One week of no cell phones.

3. Reading an entire book on the flight home. And watching a few movies.

4. I don't understand how I get homesick for London, but I do.

One Wicked Day

2011-07-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

Day Six

We left Francis and Trevor's house and Surrey all together and made our way over to Newbury Park in London for the remainder of our stay in England.

Newbury Park doesn't LOOK far away from central London on the map. Guess what? About an hour's train ride outside the city. Luckily, our hotel there was quite nice and the train ride was fairly interesting because of this one cemetery. In fact, I'm going to try to Google it and see if I can find pictures or something online. You'll have an update tomorrow.

Anyway! Once we figured out how to ride the trains with our massive suitcases and got settled into our room in Newbury Park, we made our way into downtown London. After discovering that the two different sets of directions we got from the Receptionist in Newbury Park were dreadfully wrong, we found what I was looking for: the original Hard Rock Cafe. There was a crazy wait, but it was worth every juicy bite.

After our VERY late lunch, we headed to Portobello Road for souvenirs and so that Mum could watch Bedknobs on Broomsticks and say she'd been there! Another tip if you ever plan on traveling to London: do all of your souvenir shopping on your last day and do it on Portobello Road. Blocks and blocks of street vendors selling everything imaginable at fair prices (for fairly good quality) - most vendors will even haggle with you and are more apt to haggle the closer they are to closing down (5PM). You're welcome.

I bought presents for practically everyone in one stop. Among the gifts: scarves for 6 women, 1 pair of earrings, 2 different pendant watches, 1 necklace, and a magnet for Lizzie.

Once our shopping was done, we headed to the Apollo Victoria Theatre right outside the Victoria Station (right next to Buckingham Palace) to see Wicked!! I have no words to describe the show. I had chills from the moment the show began until the very last person stopped clapping at the end. The show was riddled with understudies and it was still that mindblowingly stellar. It is coming to LA in December, but I doubt it will live up to the high standard the London cast set.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. I'm in love with the guy who played Fiyero; what a twirling, singing, stud.

2. People watching on the Tube. 'Nuff said.

3. Shauna. You are one amazing person.

4. The best thing about being a nerd? Randomly finding other nerds through your nerdy shirt collection.

It's a Tudor (and Pirate?) Life for Me!

2011-07-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

Day Five

Linda left early in the morning. It was NOT fun saying goodbye and was really hard to watch Mum say goodbye. These women are practically her sisters and she never gets to see them.

Francis always needed a day off the day after we had been out and about, so she stayed in Surrey while Mum and I headed to Hampton Court - home of Henry VIII and his insane court and later to George II. The place was quite exquisite, actually.

There are two different palaces on the grounds at Hampton Court - one was the original structure (Henry's palace) and the other structure was built several hundred years later by King George on the grounds. It looks a bit weird having structures from two different periods, but they were both beautiful!

Henry's Palace:

George's Palace:

There were period actors walking around the grounds to help you imagine you were in Henry's court. There were different areas to teach you about each of Henry's wives (divorced, beheaded, died, divorced, beheaded, survived) and living in Tudor England.

George's palace should look familiar to anyone who saw the most recent Pirates of the Caribbean film.

I had fun taking pictures - the weather was perfect and the grounds were immaculately kept. As if Henry would tolerate it any other way - even in death!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Skyping with Peter (aka: Harrison Ford).

2. Snowdrops.

3. My aunt was Queen of England after Henry VIII died for 9 whole days.

4. Horse-drawn carriages.

Chaucer, Fudge, and Romans, Oh My!

2011-07-15T09:00:00.000-07:00

Day Four

When I booked this trip, I had lots of grandios ideas about traveling to other cities around London to see some of my favorite sites. Alas, we didn't make it to all of them, but we did make it to CANTERBURY!

Francis, Linda, my Mum, and I drove passed Hever Castle (heave a brick at Hever Castle!), out to Canterbury to see the Canterbury Cathedral. There are no words. I love St. Paul's (still my favorite), but there is something almost other-worldly about Canterbury. This place is MASSIVE and was originally built in 1070 (it has had some work done - the most recent major work was in 1834). The stained glass, stone carving, and intricate sculptures are amazing. I think my favorite part, though, are the graves. Yes, I'm weird. Make peace with it - I have.

Francis and Linda had been to the cathedral a few weeks before, so they shopped while we toured the cathedral. I always love to see Edward, the Black Prince's tomb!

The thing about Canterbury is, there's this fudge shop. I have been dreaming about this fudge shop since 2005. I said I wanted to find it as a joke while we were on the way up. I honestly didn't think it would be there. IT WAS!! So, I bought some fudge. :)

Turns out that there is a Roman village underneath the city of Canterbury. (I do not remember this being here before, but it must have been!) There's this strange hole-in-the-wall of a museum with some interesting artifacts (most of which are NOT from the area, oddly enough) and even the remnants of an old house.

Pretty neat!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Free fudge.

2. The fudge shop ships around the world!

3. I got to Skype with my Mum's other cousin, Chaz, whom I've never met. He seemed very kind - I wish I could get to know him more!

4. The delivery boy at the restaurant where we had lunch set off the fire alarm. It was LOUD.

Touring London

2011-07-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

Day Three

Mum and I took off on our own our third day in London. We caught a morning train to Victoria Station and I fell in love British public transportation all over again. Seriously, America - what is your deal?! The trains and buses in Europe are all well-maintained and affordable - nobody drives! I wouldn't dare ride a bus anywhere around here! Anyway - I digress.

I owe an apology to my mother. I am not a patient person and I'm afraid I was curt with my mother more than once while trying to teach her about the trains/buses/tube systems. Sorry, Mum!

When we got off at Victoria, we found a group of French school children. My advice to anyone traveling to England: find a group of French school children and FOLLOW THEM!! Their schools go to England every year and they know the fastest routes to all of the tourist traps. You won't regret it. Plus, they're fun. We followed our group to Buckingham Palace, but the guards were doing a trial run for the royal wedding and it was even more insanely crowded than usual. So, we took a hop, skip, and a jump through Green Park to the side opposite the Palace and hopped on a Red Bus. Another piece of advice if you're going to England: TAKE A RED BUS! That had to be the best decision of our trip. We saw EVERYTHING and if you get on the original Red Bus Company, you can hop on and off whenever you like along the way throughout the day.

The buses are terrifying if you sit up top. We sat on the top, in the first row and I had to hold in my gasps of terror more than once. Motorcycles and smartcars disappear under the bus like you would not believe. At one point, I decided to stop paying attentiong and try to focus on what the guide was telling us (our first guide was AMAZING) and taking everything in.

We hopped off first at a little pub for some fish and chips and then headed up the street to St. Paul's Cathedral - my favorite place in the world (that I've been to). Another apology to Mum - we spent a tad over 2 hours in St. Paul's. SORRY!

After St. Paul's, we hopped back on the Red Bus and had the worst tour guide ever. Everything he said was complete bullocks and even I knew it. What a load of pork pies! I ignored him as much as possible as we wound our way through downtown London over to the Tower of London so that we could see some family history! Our great-great-great-great-aunt, Lady Jane Grey, was held prisoner and beheaded in the Tower. We saw the site where she was actually beheaded and the glorious monument erected those precious few who were beheaded within Tower walls. We walked through the building she was held prisoner in and saw her name etched in the walls by her ladies in waiting. Then, we went in the chapel where she is buried, also within the Tower. I had been to the Tower before and never knew that I was related to this woman from the past. What an experience!

We spent so long in St. Paul's and the Tower that we didn't do much else, except complete the cycle of our tour. We saw all of the highlights of the city, but didn't alight from the bus for all of them.

It was a great day!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Shakespeare's Globe Theatre.

2. Authentic fish and chips. YUM!

3. I wish I had words to describe standing at the grave of your beheaded relative. Talk about moving.

4. Pasties. :P

5. I think I'm the only person in the world who enjoys British food.

The (London) Temple

2011-07-13T06:00:00.000-07:00

Day Two

The London, England temple is not in London. Actually, it is quite far from London considering it is called "The London, England Temple". The temple is actually in Newchapel and is farther from London than Surrey.

Regardless, it is breathtaking, as are the grounds. I wanted to go inside SO BAD, but, I'm not endowed, didn't have a limited-use recommend, and the temple was closed that day. Also, my cousins are absolutely NOT religious.

I was so moved walking the grounds that I had to wipe away tears more than once. There is such a strong Spirit at church sites in England; I'm not exactly sure why. It is definitely something I wish that everyone could experience.

I think I'll let the pictures speak for this post:

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Francis and Linda can be a bit catty - even with each other. Poor Francis was constantly being compared to a pirate by her sister!

2. I bought a dress in Surrey this day - it is SO cute!

3. We went to the park in Surrey for a bit also. The schools were off for Easter break while we were there and the weather was actually quite hot, considering it was England.

4. Magnum bars.

Woops!

2011-07-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

It has been ...quite a while... since I have blogged. *shame*

So, when last I left you lovely people, the mean folks over at LDSPlanet were trying to encourage me to no longer a be a disappointment to my mother. That has not changed. (:

I did, however, go to England! (This post actually takes place BEFORE me being a disppointment was brought to light, but in case you haven't noticed, I am not the best blogger these days.) I'll break this up into a few posts so that I don't overwhelm people TOO much.

Day One:
Mum (haha) and I arrived at Heathrow airport in London a bit later than planned and Francis and Linda were worried that we had missed our flight. Luckily, they waited for us outside of Customs and there was a happy reunion in the middle of the walkway for a moment - until we realized we were in the middle of the walkway and then moved. I hadn't seen Linda in probably around six years and I don't recall ever meeting Francis, although, I know I have. None of that mattered though - instant best friends and close family.

We drove out to Francis' house in Surrey, completely in awe of the beautiful countryside. I don't know that I will ever get over how absolutely gorgeous England is. And of course, Francis and Trevor live in this beautiful little suburb that has a country feel to it with a quaint little downtown. When we got to the house, I met Trevor (again - I know I've met him before, but I don't remember). He has to be my favorite person ever - he has that naughty, cheeky Brit thing going for him and he looks kind of like Mick Jagger. Anyway! We visited for a bit and then off to bed (I didn't sleep at all on the flight over and I don't know that Mum did either).

The next day, we hung out at the house with Francis and Trevor's sons and their families. I have never met Mark or James - let alone their wives and kids (or soon-to-be kids). I was pretty shocked when I saw James; he looks A LOT like Josh. And then Mark looks like a mash up of Jereme and Josh, with more Jereme. It was REALLY funny. I love their families, too! James' wife, Meaw, was a bit sick, so we didn't visit much, but she is very sweet and keeps her kids in line like only a good mother can. She was a bit hard to understand because she's from Thailand and has a British accent on top of it all. James' wife, Eva, is from Slovakia and wonderful! She's expecting their first child and was very loving.

After a while, Francis, Trevor, and Linda took Mum and I to my great aunt and uncle's resting place - this charming little memorial park in the center of town. It is beautiful and very peaceful there.

Alright - that's it for this post. More to come!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. The guys on the flight to London who played cards THE ENTIRE FLIGHT. I kid you not - the ENTIRE FLIGHT from when they were first seated until we landed and they HAD to put the deck away.
2. James is almost as cheeky as his dad!
3. I think I watched 3 movies, 2 episodes of Big Bang Theory and one episode of IT Crowd on the flight over.
4. Trevor making everyone a cuppa before visiting the Land of Nod.

How to Not Disappoint Your Mother Any Longer

2011-05-08T20:53:00.000-07:00

For those of you who can't read what the e-mail says, allow me to illuminate: "How can you make mom happy this year? Meet a special guy."

Because you can't make your mom happy without a special guy.

Gee, whiz!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Pleasantville. I LOVE this movie.

2. Magnum bars. Yum.

3. The sound of my nieces' voices. They are SO precious.

4. A day with my family in my home ward.

5. Movie quotes and Wii.

6. Pain happens for a reason.

Vacation - FINALLY!

2011-03-31T20:43:00.000-07:00

I'm taking a real vacation and I can't believe it. I know, I know...I went to K-Town to visit my Stella in September, but that only involved ONE DAY of no work. (An AMAZING trip, but not really a "vacation".) A few amazing things about this vacation, though. Are you all ready?

1. I'm going with this wonderful woman:

MY MOM!!

2. We'll be gone from 08 April though 18 April.

3. We're going here:

LONDON!! (AKA: Home <3)

4. And quite possibly, here (for one day):

PARIS!! ('Cause Momma's never been and I wouldn't mind a delicious gyro from that one place that Andrew and I ate at every day we were there. And yes, I still remember it is and how to get there).

"I love Paris in the spring-time..."

la-di-da-di-di-da...

5. My work loves me, so they're giving me and my mom tickets to see ANY STAGE SHOW we want while we're there, which means:

WICKED!! (At long last!) - Not just Wicked - FREE Wicked! IN LONDON!!

6. Family. We're staying with my mom's cousin, who lives just outside of London, in Surrey. I have only met Frances once and am SO excited to see her again, and meet her husband and the kids of hers that I have not yet met. AND my mom's other cousin, Linda, is coming from Germany for a few days, as well!

I am SO STINKING excited it isn't even funny!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Uh, this ENTIRE post. Happy 25th birthday to me!

2. Shauna's home!!! Congrats on a mission well-served.

3. My 2 countdown widgets for my phone.

4. Replacing those 2 countdown widgets pretty much the day they expire with other exciting things!

5. SALISBURY, HERE I COME!!!

6. Portobello Road.

7. Oxford.

8. A glorious 9 days free of work.

Stunning

2011-02-09T21:28:00.000-08:00

I love art. If I could, I would spend the next 5 years of my life (at least) visiting museum after museum in country after country. I always wished that I could draw, but learned fairly early that somethings must remain a dream.

I saw this painting today and it has stayed in the recesses of my mind all day.

I hope that you all know the story of Icarus. Icarus was the son of Daedalus, a great architect in ancient Greece, for King Minos. Daedalus failed Minos one day, and he was imprisoned in a tower, with no escape. Daedalus managed to construct two sets of wings, one for himself and one for his son, Icarus. Being such a brilliant architect, Daedalus understood that he would need feathers of all sizes, some of which he secured with string and some with wax.

When both sets of wings were complete, Daedalus instructed Icarus not to fly too low as the moisture would damage the string and feathers and not to fly too high as the heat from the sun would melt the wax. Icarus was eager and flew too high. The wax that held his wings together began to melt and feathers began to fall off of the set of wings. Icarus panicked and flapped his wings faster, causing more feathers to fall. His wings destroyed, Icarus fell to the sea and drowned. Daedalus found the boy's body and buried him, naming the place Icaria.

Herbert James Draper painted The Lament for Icarus in 1898. Isn't it breath-taking?

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Art of the Day by Google.

2. Gil telling me all about the shots he had to get in his butt. Everyday. For 3 days.

3. The world's longest Alias marathon.

4. Chubby men. I LOVE me some chubby men.

5. The shoe is on the other foot.

Nicole's Bridal Shower

2011-01-06T08:00:00.000-08:00

Nicole is getting married on January 8 (holla, KP!) in the LA temple to Ben Hansen. Heaven help him!

Chelsea threw Nicole a very relaxed bridal shower/get together. And what is a bridal shower without a stripper? ENTER BRYCE! (I was excited.)

A picture is worth a thousand words, so you go, a few thousand words:

I also have a video, but it's too huge to upload. One day, I'll figure out a way to shrink it so the joy can be shared!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. Skype-ing with Kyle all night long. He's the best friend I've never met.
2. Jereme and Christy just brought me 2 three-packs of my favorite gum from Missouri! They're the best!
3. I made pan cookies. I miss Shauna.

SQA Christmas Party

2011-01-05T08:00:00.000-08:00

...Are you noticing a theme here? The company I work for LOVES holidays!

Our Christmas party was at Terranea Resort on the Palos Verdes Peninsula. (Click the link. I dare you. You'll be jealous.)

Everything was GORGEOUS! The party was ridiculously expensive (Chelsea is the assistant office manager; she told me a ball park) and it showed. We filled their largest ballroom, overlooking the ocean. The food was delish as well.

Unfortunately, I only have the one crappy picture of me (thanks, Chelsea!) and then a few of the view from my room.

I live about 15 minutes from the resort, but we got discounts on rooms (nearly 50%) and I knew I would never get a chance like this again, so Chels and I split it. All I have to say is: Worth. Every. Penny.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. I bought myself the HTC Evo 4G for Christmas. I'm still figuring out everything it does, but I LOVE IT!

2. I bought my parents one day park hoppers to Disneyland. Now that I've thought about it, I should have just bought them the lowest level passes. They're only like $50 more a piece. BLONDE MOMENT.

3. Nicole is getting married on Saturday. Stay tuned for another post tomorrow. Quite possibly my favorite post...

SQA Halloween Party

2011-01-04T08:00:00.000-08:00

Ok, ok, I know. Halloween?! What is the matter with me?? The answer: I'm a horrible blogger. This will just be quick because I'm pretty sure I've already at least mentioned the SQA Halloween festivities.

I was Batgirl and my geeky friend from work, Ted, was The Green Lantern. His ring even glowed!! Ted is a blast and I'm glad I have a fellow geek to be weird with.

Mayu and Sarah were ninjas (from Naruto for all of you Manga/Anime freaks out there...anyone? Bueller??) Sarah hand-made the ninja costumes and they were AMAZING. They even won a prize for them!

Christy was V from V for Vendetta, John was Mr. Incredible (biggest lie EVER), and David was Venkman from Ghostbusters. Unfortunately, I don't have pictures of these guys...

SQA has a horrendous tradition of walking from our office to the Starbucks a block and a half away that is located inside a rather crowded mall. I LOVED it!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. I have no concept of time. Or consideration for my few readers who don't care about Halloween now that it is January.

2. Jereme and Christy come home today from an 18-day vacation to see her family.

3. I love picking up a favorite book and spot reading all of the sections that make me feel whole.

The Grass May be Greener...But I Don't Care!

2010-11-28T19:24:00.000-08:00

Of course I'm ecstatic that my brother got married. I am NOT ecstatic about the sympathetic looks I was getting all night long at the reception.

What the heck is it with Mormons that make them think that just because you're aren't married you must be miserable??

I began to count how many people told me that I would be next, but quickly gave up after 12. I got everything from sympathetic head nods followed up with the patronizing tones of "How are you?" to a full 10-minute "pep talk" from a guy who, quite frankly, gives me the creeps.

I never seem to notice that I'm single until someone points it out for me. And then, when they do, they make me feel like I'm doing something wrong. I don't get it; if I'm okay being single, why does it matter to everyone else?!?! I can almost understand why my parents want me to get married, or at least date someone, but to the creepers at the weddings who feel it is their obligation to "cheer up" the poor, single people: STOP IT.

Honestly, on those rare days that I actually do notice that I'm single and should probably care a bit more about that fact, the last thing I want is someone to point it out and then try to cheer me up about it.

It will happen when it happens people. Until then, LEAVE. ME. ALONE.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. I love having bookshelves. More especially, I love having FULL bookshelves.
2. I have really cute nieces.

3. I got 2 whole days off of work.

4. Cute new blue shoes!

I Have a New Sister-in-Law

2010-11-27T21:50:00.000-08:00

Jereme got married on 20 November!!

It's been crazy having all of my family here and trying to juggle seeing everyone and working and trying to squeeze in time to see Nicole while she was here (didn't really work...).

The wedding was great! They were married in the San Diego temple and it was RAINING on Saturday!! Christy and Jereme were troopers through the rain and were all smiles. Right after they got out of the temple we all headed back up to LA for the reception, which was GORGEOUS!

You know I love my brother because I was DANCING. IN PUBLIC!!

I'm so glad that Jereme and Christy picked each other. She's amazing and I'm grateful that she is my newest sister.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Having all of my family here (minus my brother-in-law, Dan). We missed you Dan!!

2. Bonuses from work.

3. Staring at my computer screen for around 7 minutes, trying to think of the third thing to put on this list since I decided I would always have at least 3 things.

Geeking Out

2010-11-14T11:04:00.000-08:00

I had to post about this because it basically made my day.

As you should all know by now, I'm a MASSIVE Dr. Who fan. I am especially fond of the current Doctor, Matt Smith. He's dreamy - see??

I even bought myself a t-shirt fromThinkGeek.com that has a picture of the TARDIS and says, "You never forget your first doctor".

For those of you who don't know (and you'll need this bit of background for the story, I'm not just being a geek...) Dr. Who is in the Guinness Book of World Records for the longest running SciFi TV show in the world. It's got to be the biggest thing to come out England aside from The Beatles. Because the show has been on since the '60s and the storyline follows one Time Lord known as the Doctor, there are several men who have played the Doctor - 11, to be exact. Hence why my shirt rocks.

So yesterday, I'm running errands with my mom and Christy, totally rocking my Dr. Who shirt, and we end up in the Disney store. I got distracted by a Tinkerbell t-shirt and as I was digging for my size, one of the employees came up to me and said, "I really like your shirt." I kind of thought she meant the one that I was holding, but she followed up with, "Who is your first doctor?" We then started a discussion about our favorite Doctors. Hers was 10. Mine is 11. 10 is my second favorite and I absolute hate 9. It's a good thing 9 was only the Doctor for one season. She agreed.

I love geeking out like that!!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. All those fictional men that I love: The Doctor, Ian, Ron Weasley, Edward Rochester, Sean, Sirius Black, Severus Snape, Jace Herondale, Amon Byrne, and Po just to name a few.

2. All the real men that I love: my brothers, my dad, Bryce Fisher, Married Boyfriend, Elliot, Matt Smith, and Alan Rickman.

3. Speaking of geeking out, last night we had a work function for my department at my boss' house. Everyone (save John and I) got mildly drunk and, instead of putting in a movie like we had originally planned, we played Trivial Pursuit. Yep, we're nerds.

4. Josh, Karissa, Ashley, Hannah, and Rachel all come next week!!

5. Christy is FINALLY going to officially become part of my family on Saturday!!!

6. I got an answer to something I've been struggling with for quite some time and luckily it's the answer I was expecting. But it's really hard to work with...

7. I have my next big purchase decided - it just needs tweaking...

Work Update

2010-10-21T07:00:00.000-07:00

It's been so long since I've blogged, that I figure I have to dedicate at least one whole post to work.

*collective groan*

(This isn't work - it's from when I was in Oregon. I just think it's a FABULOUS shot of us. Plus, I love my outfit/shoes.)

There is no other way to put it: I am a workaholic. That is ALL I do.

I was recently made manager of our newest (and largest EVER) Client. The day before I left for Oregon, Nick (the manager of the program I manage - It makes sense, just trust me) came to my boss, Christy and closed her door, which never happens. She came in a few minutes later as I was closing up for the weekend and told me that we had to change my signature in my emails. She changed it from "Content Associate" to "Content Manager" and then said, "Congratulations." It was great! I was so overwhelmed for quite a while there, but after last week (this update will come in a minute...keep reading) everything took a turn for the better.

When I was in Oregon, John called me to tell me that he had an interview and test set up for my department the Wednesday I came back from vacation. That was quite an experience. It was super weird hearing him in an interview and then seeing him for the first time in almost one year. I don't think there are words. Christy and Mayu both loved him in the interview and then his test was surprising in a few ways. He didn't use "track changes" correctly - he did it the hard way - and he got REALLY far. He's been with us for almost 2 weeks and is doing really well.

Thursday, 14 October was our all hands meeting at work where they do all the major updates for the past 2 months and announce the employees of the approaching 2 months. Mayu was announced as one employee of the month and then Christy kept talking and announced the second employee of the month was yours truly: ME! I was so touched by the things she was saying about me. There is no better feeling than hearing how appreciated you are by your co-workers (and superiors). I'm so greatful that I could make her proud and ease some of her stress at work. I love her and the leadership she brings to our department.

Ok. I think that's it for the work updates for now.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. I told you all that John would be in more posts, more frequently. Maybe one day I'll even put a picture up or something.

2. Chelsea is getting to know John a lot now because she works with him, goes to church with him, and John lives with one of Chelsea's closer friends. She is constantly telling me how John is NOT AT ALL what she pictured. hahahaha. I never said I had good taste or that I was only going to date the popular kid.

3. I have 2 new books to read. ...I just need to find the time.

4. Along with employee of the month came a bonus. I'm putting toward my next big purchase.

5. John sings in the choir that I joined with my boss. He is EVERYWHERE.

Trip to See a Friend

2010-10-20T07:00:00.000-07:00

I needed to take a vacation before work spiralled out of control. So, I packed up and flew to Klamath to see my Stella!

I flew right in to Klamath and guess what? NO ONE WAS WAITING FOR ME!

*guilt trip*

It turns out, my flight arrived like half an hour early. So really, I was only alone for approximately 3.8 minutes and then Alli and Nic were there to get me. With a sign. Hahaha!

I cannot thank Alli and especially Nic enough for letting me come and crash at their place. I don't think that Nic knew what he was getting himself into when he agreed to let me come for the entire weekend.

We went hot tubbing at Alli's parents house.

Nic had coupons for free 15 minute fabulous water massages (I don't think I've been more relaxed since before Gramps died).

We, of course, made treats, treats, and more treats.

This is just scratching the surface. Needless to say, I was SUPER depressed to come home. I can't wait to go back one day.

Thank you again, Nic, for letting me steal your wife's attention for a few days. I love you both!!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. United screwed me on my flight home. BUT, I got a $150 certificate to use on any flight in the US. Now, I just have to decide if I want to use it to go to Shauna's homecoming (HOLY COW she'll be home soon) or go to Seattle to see my sibs/nieces.

2. I love having my sister-in-law (future) live with me. She's a constant buddy and I adore her. She fits right in with all of us. And John commented on how close we are last night. (Yes, John is back...brace yourselves for future posts.)

3. I've started going to choir practice with my boss from work and I am in HEAVEN. I can't comprehend how it is that something as simple as singing is relieving so much of my stress...

4. I have so much going through my head 24/7. I can't think...

Blue October ...again...

2010-10-19T19:59:00.000-07:00

I'm super behind in my blogging and I apologize. Allow me to back-blog for the next few days.

In case you all haven't noticed, I'm a HUGE Blue October fan.

Their latest tour is called, "Pick up the Phone," and goes towards raising suicide awareness. There's a suicide hotline out there that the lead singer, Justin, is a large advocate for because he's called it.

The opening act was Parlotones from Johannesburg, South Africa. They were slightly more emo (in fashion) than I prefer, but they were actually pretty legit and decent. I'm going to look into buying their CD as soon as I have life enough to go and search a music shop.

I always enjoy seeing newer bands that don't have that much live exposure because of their quirks. For example, the Parlotones drummer was visibly keeping time. I could read his lips and see the beat count. It was classic.

Then, Blue October came out.

OH.

MY.

GOSH.

I still can't believe how amazing they are live, even after all of this time. Just thinking about it makes me yearn for another concert!!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. CB Hudson.

2. Justin Furstenfeld.

3. Ryan Delahoussaye.

4. Matt Noveskey.

5. Jeremy Furstenfeld.

6. Chelsea. Thanks for going with me again. :)

Chelsea's birthday party

2010-08-22T17:20:00.000-07:00

I don't know how - and I don't WANT to know - but Bryce knows about this little restaurant in Hollywood that does a nightly drag show, Hamburger Mary's. We went there to celebrate Chelsea's birthday and had a BLAST!

The queens:

Chelsea got to participate in a booty shaking contest with all of the other birthday girls. Chelsea didn't win, but we had a blast cheering for her!

I know its weird, but it was SO fun and we're going to go again soon.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. Jereme's girlfriend Christy came for a visit. She's tons of fun - I like her!
2. Enchilladas. YUM!
3. I'm not going to San Diego to see Alli. I know you're all wondering why this is on my happy list. I'll tell you: I'M GOING TO OREGON!

4. Mockingjay comes out on Tuesday! I'M SO EXCITED!!

5. Chelsea got hired at the place I work, SQA!

6. VH1 Classics.

Roots

2010-08-16T21:29:00.000-07:00

My grandfather did quite a lot of research before he died about our ancestry. My uncle took over after and found several famous names we're related to; however, that isn't the purpose of this post.

We have a lot of European blood in us, including Irish blood. Our family name, Conley, is the Americanization of the Irish "Connelly." Connelly is even a family name of legend in Ireland.

I love my Irish heritage for some strange reason. I've always been a big fan of anything out of Boston (RED SOX, BABY!), I've always had a fondness for St. Patty's Day, and my favorite color, for as long as I can remember has always been green. I love fairies and took two Celtic legend classes in college. A good Irish brogue makes me weak in the knees. I love Irish rock bands; nobody rocks harder. I adore James Joyce and William Butler Yeats. One of my favorite satirists is Jonathan Swift because Irish babies just sound delicious as a main course. And I hear their beer is the best in the world.

I had the opportunity to go to Ireland in 2005 with the British Literary Tour and felt at home stepping off the ferry. I fell in love with every part of Ireland I touched, from Dublin to Knocknarea to Innisfree. I stayed in world-class hotels, small and cozy bed and breakfasts, and dingy hostels. I toured castles and rode a bike around a small island.

I love Ireland and hope to go back one day.

And of course, I love "Waking Ned Devine."

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. "American Slang" by The Gaslight Anthem.

2. The Canny Brothers.

3. Anna McPartlin's novels.

4. Mockingjay, by Suzanne Collins comes out in 8 days!!! I CAN'T WAIT!

5. How can someone piss you off so much but at the same time make you laugh more than anyone you know?

GUESS WHAT?!

2010-08-11T19:47:00.000-07:00

I bought a car!

I got the 2010 Nissan Rogue SL and I am in LOVE!

Its front wheel drive and has a 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine and 170 horsepower. I got the premium package, so it came with a Bose sound system, 6 CD changer, 3 months of free satellite radio, a ridiculous amount of air bags, a freaking huge glove box and center console, bluetooth, and its entirely keyless. I mean, ENTIRELY keyless. As long as the remote is within a certain range, I don't need to use my keys or remote to get in or start the car. (There are a lot of other features, but I'm not going to list them all here. It's too time consuming.) And quite possibly my favorite feature: it has a moon roof!

I spent quite a lot of time researching cars to buy before I made a final decision and this was definitely the best deal. It's 4 star government rated in front crash safety for both driver and passenger and rollover safety and 5 star government rated in side crashes for front and rear seats. It gets around 22 MPG (city) and 27 MPG (highway), which is practically nothing next to Phoenix, but let's face it: Phoenix was special.

Speaking of Phoenix, my mom, Jereme, and I took him over to Carmax to get him appraised and they only wanted to give me $750. Seriously? For that awesome car??? We decided to take it to the Nissan dealership and see what they would offer -turned out to be a really good idea! While we were discussing the car I wanted to buy I mentioned the [potential] trade-in and they quickly offered to appraise it. They came back and offered $800 (SERIOUSLY!?). My dad said that wasn't enough, we needed at least $1,000. So they obliged. :D! So Phoenix helped me put $5000 down on my car! See? I told you he was amazing!

The total cost of my car: $26,020. I got a better interest rate if my dad cosigned with me, so we did that and then as we're signing the papers with the finance manager, she starts talking about warranties. They have the standard 3 year limited warranty and then there's a special warranty deal with 3 options. I chose the TOP most option (for a mere additional $24/month) and when I did that, she gave me 0% interest for the life of the loan AND my payments don't begin until November 5, 2010.

Moral of the story: Research pays. Or, in this case: saves!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. My car also comes with "Mood Lighting" - I have yet to figure this out. Hahaha!
2. Fat Guy across the street saw me come home from work today and when I got out of the car he yelled, "Congratulations!" I said thanks and then he said, "And you look REALLY good driving it!" ...awkward...
3. I can't believe the crap Beetlejuice is pulling.
4. I GET TO SEE ALLI IN 17 DAYS!! Although, if I count the way Alli's family counts, its more like 5 days. Hahaha!
5. I'm super excited to take Rogue to San Diego in a few weeks!
6. Jereme's girl friend is coming in like a week and a half! I better start cleaning...
7. I have a massive crush on Ron Weasley.

Mormon Night

2010-08-06T21:26:00.000-07:00

Every year, Dodger stadium hosts Mormon Night. And every year, it's Dodgers versus Padres. One day, I hope they give us a different team. That's beside the point, though.

After I got off of work, Chelsea picked me up and we booked it to a friend's house who then drove us (like a MANIAC, I might add...I'm amazed I'm alive) out to LA for the game.

I REALLY needed to get out. I don't seem to have the opportunity very often with work demands and it's only going to get worse over the next few months. That's a post for a different day.

We tried to get a bunch of the people that were there from our singles' ward to sit together. Really, it ended up just being the people we carpooled with sitting together and one member of the bishopric sitting semi-close to us.

We had a lot of fun. Unfortunately, the Dodgers lost to the Padres (BOO)! ...Like I care... Where was I? Oh yeah. We had a lot of fun and I even got to witness a real, live in-stadium home run because the Dodgers players weren't paying attention.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. I could potentially have exciting news soon. Like, as in, tomorrow-soon. Maybe.
2. I'm learning the seriousness of the phrase, "Be careful what you wish for" the hard way.
3. "The Nanny." I can't get enough.
4. Jereme's girlfriend, Christy, is coming!!
5. It's finally August - which means: I GET TO SEE ALLI SOON!!

The Nice Thing About Funerals

2010-07-11T17:09:00.000-07:00

Sorry it's been so long - things around here have been slightly insane.

My mom's mom, "Grannie," moved in with us about a year ago. For a year before that, my mom lived with her in Utah after my grandfather died to take care of her. On Saturday, July 3, 2010 at 2:22 AM, Grannie died very suddenly. The doctors wouldn't even call her sick until around 6 pm on Friday.

The nice thing about funerals is: you get to see family. Josh and Karissa had a heck of a time getting there, but they did. Ashley, Hannah, and Rachel flew over from San Fran and then back up to Seattle when it was over, and Jereme came down from school.

I haven't seen Ashley, Hannah, and Rachel in a year - unbelievable! Hannah and Rachel have grown so much. It was great to see how much fun they have together and how much they love each other. I haven't seen Josh and Karissa since Grannie moved in, which is about a year also. Somehow that doesn't seem right! And it's been a few months since I've seen Jereme. I miss them all so much when I don't get to see them all of the time - especially those 2 little girls (sorry sibs, but its true.) There is something magical about smiles from those girls.

For those of you looking at the picture of me and siblings thinking, "Geez, you don't look good, Lauren," I would like to inform you that I had spent the previous day in a car, couldn't sleep because I was on a bed with a GINORMOUS dip in the middle, and had a massive head ache from the heat. For those of you looking at me in that picture thinking, "HOLY CRAP! SHE'S WEARING PINK!" Yes, I know. And it's not just pink. Its like...bubblegum pink! Be impressed. I got to teach Hannah how to work the buttons on my sweater during the viewing and she told me she liked my pink sweater, so I knew it was a wise choice.

We buried Grannie with her favorite sweeties in her hand and a few packets stuffed in her coffin to go. I was going to post a picture of it to prove it, but was informed that was rather morbid, so I decided against it. Before the coffin was sealed, my mom opened the package that was in her hand so she could get to the candies easier.

Isn't this girl cute??? (The baby is Rachel for those of you who don't know...)

I'm so fortunate to have such an amazing family. I wish we could have seen each other under happier circumstances, but hopefully we can do that soon. I miss you each so much!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. My mom has moved me into Grannie's room (which used to be my room), so I get to put my books on the shelves again. I'm excited. And so are my books.

2. It was a bit of a rough Sunday at church today; luckily, Bryce was there.

3. Why do some people feel the need to tell you things that they should probably keep to themselves until they know you better or until you ABSOLUTELY HAVE to know?

4. I GET TO SEE ALLI SOON!!!

5. My cute new bedspread. A special post regarding this matter to follow soon.

6. I finally signed my contract at work, which means I have health insurance and a salary! I also got put into my office on Friday. YAY.

7. I'm coming down with a cold. How do I know? Well, aside from the runny nose and general crap feeling, I'm STARVING. It doesn't matter what I eat or how much of it I eat, I cannot stop my stomach from growling. AUGH.

Freaky, Dark, and Weird Part II

2010-06-23T21:15:00.000-07:00

Does anyone remember my post about being called, "Freaky, Dark, and Weird" in my Humanities class in Summer 2009? I was really bothered by it at first because of the person who called me that (she bugged me like NO OTHER), while understanding that I am quite ...different... especially from other Mormon girls.

I happen to like being a different breed, if you will. I like my quirks and all of the oddities about me and I EXTREMELY enjoy re-realizing how weird I am.

I have an art of the day application on my iGoogle page and when I logged on tonight, I saw this picture and FELL IN LOVE! I darn near cried it was so beautiful:

It's called La Laguna Estigia (The River Styx) by Félix Resurrección Hidalgo. Its GORGEOUS! I did some research on it and, for those of you that care, found out that it's based on Dante's Inferno.

To add to the painting reaffirming how Freaky, Dark, and Weird I am, I would like to admit right here, on my blog that 2 people read, that I am a masochist. A SEVERE masochist.

I decided to tell GP/Beetlejuice about the openings in my department at work (with my boss' permission, of course) and he is applying. I don't think I took into account that telling him about the job meant that he would be calling/texting/fb-ing me practically EVERY DAY. The worst part is, I've gotten used to him calling/texting/fb-ing me all of the time again, so I'm constantly checking EVERYTHING, which just pisses me off. hahaha. I hate that I kinda-sorta-maybe think I want him here...but at the same time, I don't. Basically I'm just a confused girl and I hate it. hahaha. I'm so used to knowing myself and my mind that when I get put in this kind of situation I'm completely disoriented and can't really think. It doesn't help that as soon as he starts talking to me my coherency level drops like a new-born giraffe.

The jerk.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Free merchandise from CAPA Kristen's bf who sells Izze. Has anyone out there ever tried Izze? I'm on the fence, but I've only had the Blackberry drink, so I dunno... ANYWAY, I got a shirt, 3 stickers, 3 magnets, chapstick, and a drink for free today. Thanks, Jim!

2. I'm getting my own office at work. Yep, a full-blown office to go with my promotion. I can't wait until Christy finishes my contract - I want to go to the dentist so bad!

3. I ordered the dress I've been in love with for nearly a year the other day. Pictures will be posted once I get the dress. I know, I know, I've already promised pictures of my haircut. Maybe I can kill 2 birds with one stone...

4. Chelsea interviewed at SQA today for the CAPA internship. I hope she gets it!

5. Natalie mailed me a letter from Shauna and I got it today. My mom was emailing me at work to tell me I had a letter from Tempe, which really confused me. Needless to say, I was on pins and needles all day about it.

6. I'm dead serious about going to England and Ireland for my 25th birthday next year. I'm also STOKED for it.

7. I finally went to FHE (for the first time in this ward) and the Bishop asked me to speak on Sunday and told me he wanted to meet with me during church to give me a calling. I'm 99.99% sure I know what it is, but I guess I'll find out on Sunday...

Changes

2010-06-16T07:00:00.000-07:00

In the photo below, please note how long my hair is:

Yes, it curls around my boob (and I'm ...well endowed...).

You're probably reading this thinking that I'm going to post a picture of my new hair cut (well...new-ER.) - yeah - not today. This is (L-R) Chelsea, me, Nicole, and Allison a day or 2 before Nicole moved to Utah. She's not really that tall - she's wearing her high-heeled boots because her boytoy is 6'5."

Along with the new hair cut (photo coming soon, I promise...no really...), I have FABULOUS news!

I asked my boss on Tuesday (my 3-month anniversary at SQA Services) what my next step is because that was the end of my internship. She said that she is in the process of writing my contract to hire me on permanently. Once she writes the contract, it has to be approved by her supervisor and then the President (who is the co-founder of the band that he is insisting I join as the lead singer). She's confident there will not be any problems. So, the official offer hasn't been extended, but she congratulated me today and ensured me I have nothing to worry about.

I love my job so much. I love the responsibility and how insanely hectic it is. I love my bosses and my 2 coworkers. I love the personalities I deal with and the cultural knowledge I gain through the Associates. I love the quirks of all of my coworkers and the fact that I'm in a band. I love the trust my bosses have in me and the many opportunities they've given me to prove myself.

I can't think of a better company to work for - and trust me, I read about companies all over the world and how they function: SQA is a great company.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Cuddling with Jake, the dog. He's the best man I have in my life right now (aside from the blood relatives and Kyle, the guy I've never met). I come home every day to a wagging tail and as many kisses as I can tolerate. He has to be put to bed every night and that can involve him sitting on my lap, moaning, and giving me kisses, practically begging to not be put to bed. He's so weird.

2. Alan Rickman. I heart him.

3. I can't wait until Chelsea's birthday (cause that's when the book I've been waiting for comes out). I'm a horrible friend. I know. She knows. WE ALL KNOW!

4. I wish I knew what the heck certain people were thinking. My life would be so much easier.

5. I'm a super freak. And not in the Rick James way - in the psychic way. On Sunday, my mom and I were channel surfing and I saw "The Music Man" on one of the channels. I don't particularly care for that movie, but I happen to quite enjoy the "Marion the Librarian" scene. As I was clicking to the channel, I said, "I hope we're catching 'Marion the Librarian' and then I can change the channel again." Yeah, right as I clicked over "Marion the Librarian" started.

Someone Please Solve My Problem...

2010-06-15T21:37:00.001-07:00

I can't do this one on my own.

I have stewed over this since I first got hired at SQA as an intern.

We hired another intern this week - his name is Ted. We're slated to hire 3 more interns for our department alone because of this totally awesome $12 million deal we signed with a MAJOR corporation that will remain nameless on the internet. We need the extra man power because today and yesterday I put in 10-hour days and I'm probably going to have to keep that rate up along with my 2 bosses until we hire our other 3 interns.

The problem is, these interns can't be just anyone. They have to be Editors with at least a Bachelor's degree in English. I tried to convince Elliot to move down here to work, but he's training to become a seminary teacher and can't come right away. (I fully intend to hound him until he breaks though...hahaha!) And I've already coaxed Jenni into moving down from San Francisco (potentially...she's submitted her resume and we're looking for somewhere for her to live right now).

I only know one other person who is qualified: GothPod - or some of you may know him as Beetlejuice.

Ah, yes, the infamous GP...

I know he's searching diligently for a job (he's done census worker, pool cleaner, and his most recent job is a Cutco salesman...) because he tells me when we talk and I see the FB updates. He's still waiting to hear if the TSA wants him. I know it's the Christian thing to do to tell him about the opening(s), but herein lies the dilemma.

My bosses both know the history between GP and I, and because of this, they don't want him. I've told them that he's beyond qualified - every bit as good as me, but that I hesitate because my feelings are conflicted. I don't doubt his ability.

I've prayed about telling him about the job opening (despite Christy and Mayu's distaste for the situation/him) and haven't really received an answer yet. I've run over and over in my head whether my hesitation about telling him is because I'm hurt by how he treated me in the end or because I doubt his patience required to do the work. (Its a combination of the 2 and an additional factor, in case you were wondering.)

I just can't figure this one out. And this is just touching the surface of the problem. There are so many scenarios to consider no matter what I decide to do. I'm swimming in this one and can't breathe.

Please, someone tell me what to do.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. The post that will magically appear at 7 AM on 16 June 2010 right here on "A Work in Progress."

2. Wii swordfighting - it's saving me.

3. I have officially discovered I do not like to be called, "Babe."

Music = Love.

2010-06-02T21:06:00.001-07:00

I don't usually watch a lot of TV (let alone reality shows), but I've watched So You Think You Can Dance off and on since it started a few years back. What I always find interesting about this show (aside from the dancing that I am TOTALLY jealous of) is the fact that they always use music that most people don't know - except me.

Ok - that last bit isn't entirely true. It feels like that though. I'll find some obscure band by surfing youtube, or randomly perusing iTunes. For instance, last year, someone danced to "Hometown Glory" by Adele when no one really knew her but I had been singing "Chasing Pavements" and "First Love" for at least 6 months prior. And then tonight, the show used Florence + the Machine's "Dog Days Are Over." It seems like no one in the US knew Florence + the Machine. I only found them by scrolling through youtube videos of German artists. (Random, I know.)

Anyway. Again on tonight's episode I was reminded how much I adore Priscilla Ahn when they started playing "Dream."

Love it.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Singing. I can't stop.

2. My trip to the zoo on Monday didn't quite pan out, but it was still an excellent day. One day, I'll blog about it. Maybe.

3. The more time I spend with Bryce, the more I realize how much I've missed him. But the normal way these days.

4. I'll find out in ONE WEEK if my job wants to keep me or not. I'm praying and crossing my fingers.

5. Nicole is gone - moved to Utah.

6. I bought a Wii. Go ahead; judge me. But man, it's fun and the sword fighting is definitely my new stress reliever until I think I can handle Ashley's old Tae Bo videos.

7. Ashley's old Tae Bo videos. Ha.

8. I have some ridiculous e-mail conversations with Auditors at work.

9. GothPod phase out. Wish me luck because I already desperately need it.

10. Hick-hop. WOW.

The New Purse

2010-05-14T07:00:00.000-07:00

I bought a new purse the other day and Alli has been asking for a picture, so: TA - DA!

I got it at Target the other day. The ironic thing is, I went to the purse section of Target and was not impressed, so I started heading to the book section. The walk ways were so crowded that I decided to just walk through the clothing aisles. As I was passing through the infant section, this purse was hung up with some baby blankets. I have good shopping juju every now and then.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. I hooked up my speakers to my laptop. :o)

2. Jessie must have had her baby by now.

3. I seriously need a hair cut. My hair touches my waist. That is a little extreme. The only problem is, I don't know what to do with it. Hmm...

Fortunate

2010-05-13T19:03:00.000-07:00

Over the past 2 1/2 weeks, I've gotten 2 fortune cookies that are eerily similar.

See?

If you're the unexpected visitor/returning good friend, don't spoil it for me - I want to be surprised when you show up!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. "Animal" by Neon Trees. SO good - can't get enough.

2. The auditor we thought was dead isn't dead. He resurfaced this morning, alive and well. The jerk.

3. Clean Sheet Day!!

4. They traded interns around in the office and moved the guy that was frustrating the living daylights out of me to the other office and gave us a girl. I'm much happier now, and more work is getting done every day.

5. Apparently I get to start handling more of my own stuff at work - go me!

6. I miss Stella.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

2010-05-09T15:34:00.000-07:00

Chelsea's grandma has season tickets to the Civic Light Opera of Redondo Beach and as a reward for being a frequent customer, they gave her 3 free tickets to any show for this season, and Chelsea's grandma gave them to Chelsea.

She took me and Bryce to see "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat" with her. It was ...different...

hahaha. Bryce and I were still on the fence about how we felt about it when it was done. Don't get me wrong - the performers were great and everything (including Bryce's little cousin that neither of us knew was in it) but it was a little insane what with the Go-Go dancers and the ElvisPharaoh all mixed in with the Israelites.

The best part of the night was spending time with Bryce and Chelsea. I don't spend a lot of time with Bryce these days and it was so much fun to go out with both of them. And I'm really glad Bryce decided to come to dinner with us; I love him and can't believe I have such an amazing person in my life.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. My mom freaking rocks. I love her to death and can't imagine a better friend/role model.

2. Knowing that I can go to Stella whenever I need to hear the truth. I went to her to hear what I wanted to hear and got something better - honesty. She's the best.

3. I got a new purse that I'm in love with. Chelsea saw it and said, "OOOOO! Macy's?" Nope. Target.

4. Right when I hit a breaking point, the Lord remembers me and takes care of me - even if that care comes in a very unexpected way.

5. There's nothing better than your friends honest reaction of, "You look friggin' hot!"

6. There are some seriously cute babies in my home ward.

No Doubt

2010-05-02T16:34:00.000-07:00

The band, that is.

Remember how I was told that I was going to have to try out to be the singer in my company's band? Well, we went to happy hour the other night (I didn't drink - no worries) to celebrate a huge milestone for our company and I sat across from Marc, the lead Program Manager and Mike, the President/CEO (who started the band). As soon as Mike sat down and saw me, he said, "I have HUGE news for you."

A few weeks ago Mike went to a charity event for the Pat Tillman Foundation. There was a fantastic drum set up for auction which came with an hour and a half lesson with the drummer from No Doubt, Adrian Young. Mike bid $2,000 on the set/lesson and won. Mike already plays the drums so he called Adrian Young's personal assistant and set up for Adrian and the lead singer of a different band (who I can't remember) to come down to Palos Verdes and go golfing on Trump's course with him. That should happen in the next week or so. Here's where this gets interesting for ME - according to Mike.

Mike has been working with Adrian Young's PA to set up a concert for our company. (He's awesomely pushy isn't he?) No Doubt is recording right now (for all of you fans out there) and they're going to be going on tour shortly after the album is released. From what the PA says, Adrian Young will probably be totally down with this. If he is, Mike is going to have a show at his house for our company where the company band will be performing with special guest: Adrian Young. What does that mean? I'll be singing with the drummer from No Doubt. (Possibly).

And to think I wasn't going to go to happy hour because I don't drink...

I'm glad I went. Marc, Mike, Mayu, and Kumar asked me why I don't drink and I didn't get crap for it. Marc even went so far as to say he respects me and my decision - and no, he hadn't had a drink yet. The company paid the tab - so I only paid $3 for one coke and the rest were free! Marc asked me how I thought work was going and if I really did like it and we got to talking for almost 2 hours. After a while, we did some reshuffling of seats and I talked with a few other of the "higher-ups" and the founder, Jim. As I was leaving, I went to everyone around the table to say goodbye and congrats and Marc stopped me and took me to Jim to tell him how much the content department has improved since I started. We got about 10 minutes of solid praise from Marc and Jim, both. Then, Kumar told me how much he loved how I handle his accounts and the work I put in to everything.

All in all, it was a good night out.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. This whole post.

2. Friday in general. It was a great day.

3. Gothpod is driving me insane in the good way and the bad way.

4. The Relief Society lesson today was totally meant for me. Thanks, Megan.

Mistakes

2010-04-28T21:27:00.000-07:00

Does anyone else feel like the mistakes they make are so incredibly huge they're irreparable? I know it's NOT that huge, but I feel like I'm swimming in this one and I can't decide how to fix it.

I'm so frustrated these days, and I really hope it passes, but at this point I'm where I can't quite seem to see the end.

Because of this I'm going to do a longer list!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. I love when Chelsea comes over. We hardly EVER actually do anything, but I don't think I realized how much I missed her friendship all of those years. I'm 99.99% sure that that is why I was so mad at her for so long - because she disappeared on me. Which made me disappear on her. Sorry, Betty.

2. A few weekends ago, Scott and I hung out all night and I told him I'd go to his dance show this weekend. I was explaining to Nicole today that I had plans for Saturday (Scott's show) and she immediately asked me if Scott and I are dating. I don't understand...

3. I was killing time on Facebook tonight, and I suddenly found myself panicking that I might have homework due tomorrow. And then I realized I'll never have homework due again. SAD DAY!

4. Does anyone remember my Shig bear? I was telling GothPod about someone that works for my company named Shigeo who goes by "Shigy" and GP said that he would almost rather be called Shig. I started cracking up because of the bear's name. When I told GP he was confused and amused. Weird.

5. I think I'm going to buy an annual pass to Disneyland. The only problem with that is, if I do, it would only be worth it to buy the highest level pass because I can only go on Saturdays and all weekends are blocked-out on the lower levels. The higher level one is over $300. I have some serious debating to do.

6. I'm loving all of the videos my sister keeps posting of my nieces. Maybe I'll skip the Disneyland pass and save up for a plane ticket in case I ever get vacation time from work.

7. I literally cannot remember the last time I took my toe rings off.

8. I'm debating starting a satirical blog. My only concern is that "Satirical" will quickly become "Sarcastic."

9. I like Hot Bliggity Blog's blog backgrounds slightly more than The Cutest Blog on the Block's, but that's probably because I was using TCBOTB for the longest time and had seen all of their designs a million times over.

10. I realized the other night how much I miss living with 5 other girls. I was in severe need of someone to talk to and I'll be darned if having a bunch of girls that you love live with you wasn't a blessing for 5 years.

11. Mayu noticed the other day that I've been down, and she offered to take me to a karaoke bar where I could sing and she could drink. I love my friends at work.

12. I love finding myself in a book. I do not love reading all the way to the end of a book and finding out that the character I identify the most with is a suicidal manic depressive.

13. The stupid dog is so cute.

14. August. August. August. August. August.

HELP!

2010-04-22T21:37:00.003-07:00

I am in a music slump.

I still have my favorite bands like Blue October

...And a few others. But I haven't found anything new that I like lately.

Jereme bought me an iTunes gift card for my birthday and I have yet to use it. It's like leaving Barnes and Noble empty-handed: traumatizing.

So, if anyone has a good band, I definitely need some suggestions.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. The last 2 nights. (:

2. Anna McPartlin. I love her books and her writing style. She cracks me up and writes about realistic scenarios in a way that everyone can relate to and be touched by. Every time I pick up a new book by her, I find myself and my friends on the pages.

3. When I got home from work today, my mom had put an opened card on my computer. I opened it and saw it was from Bryce thanking my family for letting him be a part of it. I am so grateful that my family has always been so open to basically adopting my friends. I really do love that my friends are so comfortable here and know they're ALWAYS welcome.

4. I (potentially) get to see Alli in August. I'M SO EXCITED!

5. "Glee." Geez, the Madonna episode from this week (replaying Friday night) was A-MAZING, and I don't even really like Madonna.

Life is Pretty Good...

2010-04-19T18:37:00.006-07:00

So we have a new intern at work. He's been with us for one week today, and I'm still on the fence about him. Honestly, I question what my bosses were thinking when they hired him. I KNOW, I KNOW, he's only been with us for a week, but he's driving me bonkers because I am training him. I escalated it to Christy, though, because he's just not absorbing what I tell him. Despite the stresses he brings to the job, he's very nice and personable. And I still LOVE my job.

I got a letter from Shauna today. She is amazing. I love reading her blog (Thanks Jayne!), and her letters are like a concentrated dose of her blog. That probably has something to do with the fact that her letters are tailored perfectly to me. hahaha. Yes, I'm that self-centered. She sounds super happy and I love that she still talks boys with me. hahaha. I love hearing her talk to me through her handwriting - so funny. I miss her lots and can't believe she's only got like 10 months left. WEIRD.

Bryce sent in an audition video to "Glee" (best show on TV, by the way) all about how he should be on it not because its his life's ambition, not because he's an amazing singer (which he is), but because he has cancer. That kid milks it for all it is worth. If you want to help this poor, unfortunate cancer-ridden, kind soul get a role on "Glee," click here. (You can also click there if you want to laugh/realize your life could be so much worse/listen to Bryce to sing - it's a multi-functional link.) To vote for him, click on "Give a Gold Star." (Really, please do this - I want him on "Glee" SO BAD!!)

note: He is joking. Sort of. He is dying of cancer, but a lot of that video is supposed to be quasi-satirical. I don't want to offend anyone...

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. I love how the Lord knows what we need and exactly when to give it to us.

2. We broke a record today at work. Two hours later, we broke that record.

3. New books. I had to fight to put it down last night so I could sleep. I love Anna McPartlin - highly recommend her.

4. Chilling with Scott on Saturday night. We watched pieces of 2 basketball games, made virgin pina coladas, a peach/cherry cobbler, and watched "Zombieland." It was SO fun. I'm going to miss that kid.

5. I wish I could take my own advice, but at the same time, I laugh a lot more when I don't.

Updates.

2010-04-11T20:30:00.004-07:00

I haven't blogged in a while, so I figured I'd do that today.

My birthday went well - had fun. Nothing flashy, but it was still a very nice day. I was SUPER surprised to hear from Elliot. He sent me a text and I darn near cried just reading it. It wasn't anything extraordinary, all it said was "Happy birthday" but I felt enormously special with those 2 little words. Same with Kyle. I've never met Kyle - we just FB chat and stuff - but he sent me the nicest note. I have some truly amazing people in my life.

On the flip side of the truly amazing - guess who's back? Goth pod. What a battle. (I semi-jest. It's not a total disaster - it just makes life more interesting/stressful.)

I'm still having a blast at my job. We're getting a new intern for my team tomorrow morning - the only boy on our side of the building. We'll see how he does. hahaha.

I'm pretty sure Mishi is going to die any day now. From natural causes - not from us murdering him, surprisingly. He's stealing things more and more lately (which Chelsea's cat did right before she died), he SMELLS like 4 bags of rotten eggs, and he's so skinny that when he lays down he pretty much disappears. Here's hoping...

My goals I wrote down and posted on my tack board to keep me motivated have had NO effect. hahaha. Okay, that's not true. All but one of them.

Jereme is getting ready to head back to Idaho and I'm flipping out that I don't have to do that. I feel like I should be panicking about packing and saying goodbye to my friends and family, but I don't. I just have to sit here. It's SO weird. I'm going to miss him lots and lots.

That's about it, I guess. It's not very exciting around here anymore.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Never, EVER underestimate the magical healing power of a hot bubble bath and your favorite band.

2. Listening to music that you haven't listened to in a while cause you overplayed it. Man, I forgot how much I love Melody Gardot.

3. I'm so glad the weekend is over and I get to go back to work. Life sucks on the weekend.

4. Chelsea totally grossed me out just now on FB chat. Not a lot grosses me out, but I seriously thought I was going to throw up on my computer.

5. I'm glad I decided to go to South Bay singles' ward. Yeah, it sucks and there's like 10 people in it, but that's basically the only way I've been able to see Bryce lately. He's so nice to humor me by sitting by me in Sacrament AND Sunday school.

I'm the Lead Singer

2010-03-30T20:58:00.002-07:00

Unofficially...

I think there's going to be an audition at the next office drinking party/karaoke bar night, with my luck. They don't give you much notice of stuff we're doing.

I love my job. The people I work with are down to earth, hilarious, good people. But let me give you the story of just how I got roped into the singing thing.

Yesterday, during the latter-part of my lunch break, I was laying in my car with the windows slightly cracked, singing along to my Adele CD (thanks, Lo!), not thinking that people could hear me. (Why is it that when we're in our car, we think people can't see/hear us? I'm no nose-picker or anything, but I certainly do love to sing. Tangent.) ANYWAYS. One of the guys in the office came up to his car and heard me, then gave me a bit of a razz for just laying in my car in the sunshine, singing to myself with my eyes closed. Being the newbie that I am, I assumed that was the end of it.

The President/CEO, Mike, had half of the office meet him at Benihanna today for lunch. I was sitting there looking over the menu when Mike walked in and introduced himself to me (I'd never met him before). I was sitting next to a few of the Executives (including my favorite person in the office, Jared, who I've only met once before today). I knew there was a drum set in my office that had to be moved, and that a few of the folks in the office (Pres/CEO and Jared included) play in a band together. I didn't know they were lacking a key member.

Jared looked at me part way through lunch, and said, "So Lauren, do you play any instruments?" and I explained no, not really. And that's when Jared goes, "But I hear you sing." And Mike heard him. BUSTED!

They asked what I like to sing. I told him I'll sing pretty much everything and his eyes lit up when I told him I really love hard rock. He said that unless I'm absolute crap (he used a different word, but my only reader is Mormon. *waves* HI ALLI!) I'm in the band. Our first show will be at the company picnic in May and again at the company Christmas party.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. I got my desk and phone and stuff today. I think we'll be working in the new office tomorrow for the first day!

2. My job freaking rocks. We get perks.

3. The cheers that erupted when Marc told everyone at lunch to order alcohol.

4. I didn't get the third degree when I said I don't drink at lunch today.

5. I put myself out there and got ignored. Nothing like a good burn, folks.

6. Halloween is a FREAKING HUGE deal at my office. I've been warned to start planning now. And when I say huge, let me give you a for-instance: Mike (pres/ceo) was Paris Hilton, complete with size 12 stilettos and a bare mid-drift, which was not waxed.

7. Jereme went shopping with me on Saturday. I mean, shopping shopping. Like, he stood around for an hour while I tried on clothes in a few different stores. He's pretty awesome.

It's the Simple Things in Life...

2010-03-24T22:26:00.005-07:00

Here are some random thoughts/fun things from the past few days:

Another Free Willy movie?? Really?? Before you know it, Free Willy is going to become the new Land Before Time series...
I love "Who's Line is it Anyway?"
Christy offered me her hat collection for Bryce's crazy hat party on Saturday.
I'm getting my phone to go with my phone number at work.
I have this strange urge to watch The Wizard of Oz. I don't understand it.
I finally fixed my milkshake craving; thank you Ruby's!
Chelsea's face is freaking amazing.
Seeing our new office furniture get delivered, and being really excited whenever we heard the dolly going by.
Reading old GMail chat conversations between me and Alli.
My work is really cool; we're getting an office-sponsored bowling party one night soon. And at the Christmas party, we always do a talent show. I was warned now so I could start preparing.
My cork board is back!
It takes exactly 1.5 text messages between Bryce and I before they become inappropriate.
I wrote down goals that are going into effect starting Monday morning.
"Oh, look at that! ...Oh, look at that! ...Oh, look at that!"
I like "The Marriage Ref."

A Job Update

2010-03-18T19:39:00.003-07:00

It's been 4 whole days and I'm still loving my job.

hahahaha.

My friend keeps referring to it as the "job honeymoon stage," but I don't think I'll ever have a problem working there. My bosses Chrsity and Mayu are SO nice. Even when things are crazy like they have been for the last 2 days (and when I say crazy, I mean absolutely insane), Christy and Mayu are positive and have great senses of humor. We laugh through all of the horrible-everything-that-could-go-wrong-can-and-has stuff, and keep on working.

Christy makes sure I'm constantly snacking, which is going to have to stop. I've made a few friends around the office, and Christy and Mayu want me to sit in on the interviews they're doing for the other content intern starting tomorrow. They've been going over resumes and cover letters like crazy since March 3, and so far have only liked one person enough to hire: ME!

(I know, it's weird to me, too.)

I've been getting through 4 audits a day. The audits are usually around 14 pages long, and I've gotten to the point where I'm asking less questions, finding more errors, and looking at the template a lot less, which is good, and apparently impressive.

I got my official SQA email address, phone number, computer, and laptop the other day. Here's where it gets interesting though: I don't have a phone. I have a phone number, but no phone. They're moving our office soon to a different section of the building, and that is when I'll get all set up. (When I get all set up, I'll have 3 computer screens to work off of!)

Basically, I can't gush enough about my job: I am COMPLETELY, 100% enamored with my job.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. The past few days, I've come home from work, changed my clothes, ate dinner, and then laid on my floor for a while (which is like laying on plywood). I like my job, but I'm sore.

2. I get to see Chelsea tomorrow! WOO HOO!! It feels like it's been forever when really, it's just been since Sunday.

3. The videos Ashley has been posting of Rachel talking.

4. I work in a building right across the street from the mall (in PV, for those of you from around here), and in the PV mall there is a Borders. (It's not Barnes and Noble, but really, at this point, I'm not going to split hairs.) There is also a library there.

5. We have a basket ball hoop in our parking lot. Also, the Head of IT leads anyone who wants to participate in this super-intense work out a few times a week. Once I get in shape, I'll have to try it out. Hahaha.

100th Post and Good News!

2010-03-12T15:50:00.003-08:00

What a better way to celebrate my 100th post than with some totally awesome, rocking, good news??

I got a job!

...okay, so it's a paid internship, but let's not split hairs, shall we?

I am now a part of the content team at SQA Services, Inc. SQA stands for Supply Quality Assurance, and let me give a bit of a run down of what we do. A major corporation like GlaxoSmithKline will hire SQA to send an auditor out to a manufacturing plant somewhere in the world. The auditor will examine the plant based on our standards and the standards of the corporation that hired SQA to make sure the manufacturing plant is up to par and doing everything correctly. The auditors then write up their reports - and here is where my role comes in to play. I will then edit the audits (that's fun to say out loud - go ahead, give it a try...) and after they're checked out and some revisions are done as necessary, they go back to the corporation that hired us and then CAPA (Corrective Action/Preventive Action) takes place, and everyone is happy.

I'm so excited to be getting into my field. I was applying for pretty much everything under the sun, hoping that somewhere down the road of life, I would get into editing like I've wanted to. But this is just perfect. The office is only 10 minutes away from my house, I already like the people I'll be working for (that I've met so far), and can't get over the fact that I was chosen. After the internship is over, they are hoping to hire at least one intern. Last I heard they wanted 2-3 interns - AND I'M ONE OF THEM!

...Again, I'm super happy.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. I can't believe I got such a lucky break. This just goes to show the power of prayer and fasting. God blesses those who have faith enough to ask.

2. The first thing I did after I told my family was email Brother Allen and tell him the good news. I also thanked him. I had so many teachers in Idaho that I absolutely adored, and taught me so much. I miss them, but I miss them just a little less today.

3. Jereme is super sweet. He keeps running errands with me. I have such a great brother!

4. Peasant pasta tonight. :D YUM.

5. 100 posts and still blogging. I'm impressed I kept it up. And I'm sorry for all of you that I bother. hahaha.

Oscar Night Write Up

2010-03-09T08:00:00.001-08:00

So, the Oscars were on on Sunday. I don't know how big of a deal it is outside of California, but here, it's all that is talked about from Valentines Day to St. Patrick's Day. I don't usually pay them much attention until the end of the show, when they announce the big winners like, Best Picture, Best Actor, and Best Actress. But this year, I watched the red carpet (once I got back from church) and the majority of the award show itself.

Here are my thoughts (in case anyone cares):

I feel so bad for the guys who won for Best Documentary. Okay, not both guys, just the second guy. Some retard who went walking up with them (and I think bankrolled the film) decided to hold up a sign as the second guy started his speech. Consequently, the second guy was cut off. He wasn't allowed to give his acceptance speech, and I never even saw his face because they cut to the audience. Why ruin it for people?
Also, who the heck does the invitation list for this show?? Tina Fey?? Really? And Mariska Hargitay? What the heck were Tim McGraw and Faith Hill doing there?! I know he was in The Blindside, but only for like 2 scenes - he wasn't nominated. At first I was bothered that Molly Ringwald was invited, but then they did a tribute to John Hughes - or whatever his name was - and it made sense.
Every time I hear the Up theme song, I want to cry. I don't know why. I loved that movie, and the music is beautiful, but it seriously has me choking up.
I was so glad that Sandra Bullock won for Best Actress. I mean, wow. The Blindside has to be one of the best movies I've ever seen. Congratulations to her. And also, please pick a better dress next year.
This year brought change to the Best Director category: a woman, an African American, Terrentino, Reitman and Cameron. Kathryn Bigelow won for The Hurtlocker. It seems so weird that an African American hasn't won, and that, until tonight, a woman hadn't won in 82 years of this ridiculous tradition.
10 movies in the Best Picture category?! Holy geez! That hasn't happened since 1943.

I also want to rant for a minute about the absolutely disastrous dresses this year. Usually there are a handful that are hideous, a few that are truly amazing and the rest are merely mediocre. Not this year. This year, there were a few that were mildly stunning, a handful that were merely mediocre and the rest were absolutely atrocious (ahh, alliteration and assonance.)

My best dressed list:

Elizabeth Banks

Anna Kendrick

Demi Moore

Kristen Stewart

Penelope Cruz

My worst dressed list:

Zoe Saldana

Sarah Jessica Parker

Barbra Streisand

Miley Cyrus

Charlize Theron

Maggie Gylenhaal

Jennifer Lopez

Vera Farmiga

This post is already really long, so I'll do 3 very short things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Enchiladas - momma style.

2. Cute new Sunday clothes.

3. Behood's crazy laugh.

Happy Birthday, Jereme!

2010-03-08T05:00:00.000-08:00

It's Jereme's 26th birthday today!

What can I say about such a fantastic brother? I never really felt like an annoying little sister around him or his friends, although I know I was one. He cracks me up pretty much every night at dinner (and other times during the day), and I appreciate him every morning for letting the dog into his room so he stops whining. He's someone I go to when I need advice or someone to listen/calm me down. I love him lots. And lots.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JEREME!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Jereme hates cats, but they LOVE him.

2. My mom got to go to Seattle to see Josh, Karissa, Dan, Ashley, Hannah, and Rachel. Thank you Cheryl for the ticket. I'm so glad she got to go see the kids she doesn't get to see everyday and to have some time for herself.

3. Apparently, KP thinks if I was a food, I'd be mashed potatoes.

4. The email I wrote on behalf of Nicole.

A Few MORE of My Favorite Things!

2010-02-22T20:42:00.004-08:00

I forgot a few yesterday. Or rather, I remembered more today...

15. That look on my dad's face either right before he calls me a smart ass, or when he's thinking it, but has decided not to voice it.

16. Has anyone seen Accidentally on Purpose? I've seen it 3 times. The SAME EPISODE...three times. The problem is, it's on in between 2 shows that I like, when you can't switch channels because it's on the half hour - so everything is already going.

17. My brother wants me to make more brownies. I don't mind, honestly. But I'm going to start charging him. I want a chocolate milkshake. STILL!!!

18. The scene when what's-his-bucket breaks up with the crazy chick on Accidentally on Purpose. I told you, I've only seen it 3 times, and it's the SAME episode. I still laugh when he tries to break up with her. Whatever their names are...

19. The picture that serves as the backdrop on my cell phone. It's Chelsea with a pink bra over her eyes and that weird look she gets.

20. One day, I'm going to start writing again. Hopefully soon. I think I'm just scared of getting sucked in like the last time.

21. The dents on the first toe of each of my feet from my toe rings.

Mk, I THINK that's all. Who knows?

A Few of My Favorite Things!

2010-02-21T21:37:00.004-08:00

These are a few of my favorite things. I should warn you - some of them will be ironic.

1. You know how you get sick of wearing your favorite pair of jeans, so you shove them in the back of the closet, or the bottom of the drawer, or whatever? And then, on a random laundry day somewhere down the road, you pull them out and put them on. You then look in the mirror and realize your already-cute-butt looks a MILLION times more fabulous in the jeans you banished a few months ago? Yep. Totally happened to me today. I am officially putting my "Common Genes" jeans back in the rotation: priority level 1.

2. Clean sheet day. I mean, it's not like I crawl into bed every night covered in mud, or anything, but clean sheet day makes me ridiculously, nerdishly, happy.

3. I was in a completely rotten mood yesterday as soon as Chelsea and Nicole got to my house. We ran over to Barnes and Noble to look for a teaching book Nicole needed. As soon as we walked in the store, I said, "I'm going upstairs. See you later," and disappeared for about an hour. At the end of the hour, I was a whole new, happy, peppy, perky, who-the-heck-is-this-happy-chick chick.

4. Sitting in Nicole's car parked outside of my house from 10:30 pm - 12:30 am with Nicole and Chelsea. We were cracking up basically the whole time.

5. Feeling cute even when you've spent the day lounging around the house in your spare pajama t-shirt, recently re-discovered favorite jeans with big curly hair (which according to your parent's best friend reflects your bubbly personality and should therefore be worn big and curly more often).

6. For some reason I ALWAYS trim the nail on my left pointer finger crooked. Not just crooked - it comes out at like a 45 degree angle, but only when you look at it a certain way. I don't know how to explain it.

7. Craving chocolate milk shakes every 2 days. And then, of course, on a Sunday when you can't do anything about it.

8. I've always wanted to be a singer. Still do. A jazz singer. Or, on Broadway.

9. I was laughing while I watched Love in the Time of Cholera today. And yes, the story is as depressing as the title suggests.

10. A few days before Valentine's Day, my mom asked me what kind of candy I would like, as a treat. I told her I didn't really know, cause if you know me, I'm not a big candy-eater. (Surprise, surprise, I know...) I never did get back to her about what kind of candy I would like the most. But on Valentine's Day, I woke up and sitting on top of my laptop was a bag of apple flavored Sour Punch Straws. It just so happens that I LOVE those, and forgot. Kind of like the jeans.

11. I haven't cried about John yet. I don't know why. I have, however, laughed about John. A lot.

12. Pulling pranks. I haven't been pranking lately. But after last night, I think I need to start up again. But I need a different crew to roll with. The crew I was working with last night wasn't very helpful to the process.

13. Skype dates. So "date" could be a bit of a stretch. It just so happened that this guy that I've never met, but am friends with on FB, and I rented the same movie on the same night. So we decided to watch it together via Skype. It was fun.

14. My shampoo makes my hair smell like slurpees. Consequently, I crave slurpees quite frequently lately.

Again, these are just a few things. And I figure that since this whole list is a favorites things, I won't do a small list of things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today list. Peace out, my loves.

I Can't Stop Laughing

2010-02-16T21:36:00.002-08:00

This has to be the BEST FREAKING COMMERCIAL EVER!

I don't know exactly what it is about this commercial but I've watched it like 6 times and I seriously laugh harder and harder each time. I had to share:

I laugh just thinking about it.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Knowing that my education was totally worth it and complete.

2. I got my diploma.

3. I love my teachers at BYU-Idaho. They weren't just teachers. A few were mentors, and several were friends. They're amazing people, and I miss them all SO much. Okay, not all...but the vast majority, definitely.

4. I got to brag to my dad for a bit the other night, and it was nice to see him the slightest bit impressed with some of the things I've done in college. Impressed might not be the right word, but he seemed slightly surprised, if nothing else.

5. I'm glad the Idol judges are sending home the people I like the least. Mostly just those two stupid girls I couldn't stand. Keep it up, and don't send sucky people through like Fantasia (GAG ME) anymore.

Happy Birthday, Hannah!

2010-02-05T15:09:00.008-08:00

Today is Hannah's birthday!

SHE'S 3!!

That seems insane to me! I can't believe how quickly time has gone by.

She's such a sweet girl, and hilarious. I miss her oodles every day. I miss when she would come out of her room in the morning and see me on the couch and say, "UNCLE TIM!" or "Wake up Auntie Lauren!" She would read to me, and she is definitely the best dancer on the Conley side of the family. She's precious, and I love her.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. I have 2 gorgeous nieces. Do I need anything else? ...Maybe. hahaha.

2. My wonderful Momma helped me re-organize my closet and now everything fits in my room without having stuff in boxes in front of my bed. Plus, I plugged in my wall-flower, and now my room smells FABULOUS.

3. It's raining here today. I love it.

4. New music. Woo hoo.

5. I'm still plowing through the Percy Jackson books. Love them. Highly recommend them. All that jazz.

More Percy Jackson

2010-02-04T16:36:00.004-08:00

I've made my way through the second book in the Percy Jackson and the Olympians Series, The Sea of Monsters. It didn't disappoint, I loved it again.

I'm now on the third installment, The Titan's Curse. Wow. Just when I thought I couldn't like the series anymore, Rick Riordan surprised me yet again. He keeps introducing new Gods in each book and in this book he's introduced Artemis, the Goddess of the Hunt, and her twin brother, Apollo, the God of prophecy who is also in charge of raising the Sun. (Artemis is the goddess of the moon - he got the sun...anyways...)

Apollo is my new favorite. He's hilarious. They're twins, but without getting all technical as to why, let me just say, Riordan writes Artemis to appear as a teenie-bopper somewhere between the ages of 12 and 14, and Apollo as somewhere around 17.

In classic mythology he rides a chariot painted like the sun. In Riordan's book, he drives a red convertible Maserati Spyder. Unless, of course, he's transporting 10 Hunters of Artemis, Grover, Percy and someone else I won't name (in case anyone out there is reading the series...) - then he drives a bus. Apollo also loved being in Japan, apparently, because he likes to make up his own Haiku's. For example, this one found on page 47:

"Green grass breaks through snow.

Artemis pleads for my help.

I am so cool."

Of course, the last line isn't 5 syllables so he changes it to, "I am so awesome."

Need I say more?

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. "When My Time Comes" by Dawes. I highly recommend it. Check it out on iTunes, folks. Seriously. Do it now.

2. I got a new lap top for free thanks to American Express reward points. I LOOOOVE it. It's amazing. I'm in heaven. And the only thing that can pull me away from it is Percy. hahaha.

3. I pulled the 2 books I started writing a while ago off of my external hard drive now that I have a new lap top, and re-read all that I have of my newer-book. Yeah, bad idea because now I get woken up or can't fall asleep until I write down what the stupid people in my head are saying. And they're persistent imaginary people.

4. I got a letter from Shauna on Tuesday!

5. I'm no longer listed in the Student Directory on BYU-I's website, so I'm taking that as a sign that I did, in fact, graduate from college despite the complete lack of a diploma I have. I'm thinking it has to come this week sometime.

Happy Birthday, Rachel!

2010-01-29T15:51:00.009-08:00

Today is Rachel's first birthday!!!

I honestly CANNOT believe that she's already ONE! It blows my mind. Of course, it's also crazy that Hannah is going to be 3 in exactly one week also, but that's a post for another day...

I don't care what you people say, I have the CUTEST nieces ever.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. Mishi. That cat may be retarded and super skinny, but he's definitely entertaining. I seriously don't know how he gets so dirty!
2. Nicole on a sugar high. Wow. Usually Chelsea is the crazy one, but I literally have bruises on my leg in the shape of Nicole's fingers and a rather large bruise on my wrist that I'm also crediting to Nicole.
3. Going to the park with Chelsea again. Gotta love the swings.
4. Isn't it cool how much you can love someone else's baby? I mean, Hannah and Rachel aren't mine, and I love them SO much. I can't imagine loving something more.

I Adore Sheldon.

2010-01-26T10:43:00.005-08:00

I've been watching The Big Bang Theory a lot lately, and I can't help but gush about how much I absolutely ADORE Sheldon. He's definitely my favorite. And dare I say...100% meant for me??

I wish.

Every time he talks I sit in wide-eyed rapture, practically drooling. Which is kind of ironic because honestly, I HATE super skinny guys, which he is. But I'm willing to look past his insubstantial weight. That's how much I love him.

Here's a clip from Season 3, episode 2. This clip will explain fairly clearly why I love him so much. There is another clip from later in this same episode where Raj and Sheldon debate the name of the cricket. Also definitely worth checking out. Especially because I want Sheldon's shirt.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. Thinkgeek.com. Yet again, I was perusing last night, and found a bunch of stuff I want. One day...
2. I want to be socially awkward like Sheldon. Not like Rob (for those of you who know the story) but I think Sheldon is a humorous balance.
3. My new Singles Ward. Goodbye South Bay Singles, Hello Santa Monica!! :o) WAHOO!
4. Jereme. He's tons of fun. I'm lucky to have such a great family that is multifunctional, i.e., friends and family. (How's my Sheldon? Is it nerdy enough?)

My Latest Find

2010-01-19T22:53:00.005-08:00

I find myself blogging about books a lot, lately. I think that comes with wanting to be an editor.

I've been hearing about Rick Riordan's Percy Jackson and the Olympians series for a while now, and because everyone was comparing it to Harry Potter, I've been dutifully ignoring the excited voices. And then I saw the preview for the movie of the first book in the five-book series, The Lightning Thief. And I haven't been the same since.

I sat down and researched the book, and the series as a whole, and decided to give Rick Riordan and Percy Jackson a chance.

I haven't regretted it! I can't get over how imaginative the books are, even though it's dealing with one of the oldest tales of all time: Greek mythology. I won't spoil the series for anyone out there, but I find Percy's wit hilarious considering he's only 12.

Percy, Grover, Annabeth, Chiron, Ares (he's definitely my favorite God now...), Zeus, Hades, Poseidon, Cerberus...all of them are GREAT. And the best part is, I found myself recognizing a lot of the mythology that Percy relates from classes eons ago.

I've only read the first book in the series and I'm trying INCREDIBLY hard to pace myself with the second since I have no book money because I'm jobless. But so far, I love it.

My favorite quote: "And play with Cerberus once in a while. He likes red rubber balls."

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. All of this rain. Believe it or not, a tornado actually touched down like half an hour from my house today.
2. Running errands with Bryce today. It's great to be reminded how much you have in common with such a good friend, and why he's one of your favorite people. And somehow we managed to be running through the rain whenever it was the worst. Needless to say, we got pretty wet.
3. I have a pinched something somewhere that's making my left arm practically unusable, and my mom rubbed my back tonight. It felt AMAZING. My arm's still sore, but a little better.
4. I have a book drawer in my room because I don't have bookshelves. It's packed, and my book box is also still rather full. This could be a problem.

For Kyle and Kellie McDonald

2010-01-07T18:56:00.006-08:00

Kyle and Kellie are getting married tomorrow!!!

KP, I'm SO, SO, SO sorry I can't be there for your wedding. I feel so bad!

You're such a great friend and I totally appreciate all of the advice you've given me over the years. You were one of my favorite roommates and made a lot of bad stuff in my life bearable. You were there for me when Gramps died and when Bryce was diagnosed with cancer, plus all of the drama before, in between and after!!

Kyle, I've only met you once, but thank you for being so welcoming and nice.

I'm so excited for you both and wish you guys a happy life and eternity together! I wish I could be with you guys, but know that I'm there in spirit. I love you guys!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. Temple marriages. Seriously, our church is so amazing, and temple marriages are one of the things that I love the most about it.
2. I miss living with a bunch of girls. I never thought I'd say it, but I really do miss having all of the girls around me all of the time. We had a lot of laughs, didn't we ladies?
3. I made some of my best friends in college - guys and girls - and I appreciate you all.
4. Playing Nintendo with Chelsea today. Wow.

An Epiphany

2010-01-02T21:55:00.003-08:00

One of my all-time favorite movies is When Harry Met Sally. It's HILARIOUS. I don't own it (sad day, I know), so when it was on TV the other day, I recorded it so I could watch it later.

I did so today, and the STRANGEST thing happened!!

I was wondering a lot this past semester exactly WHY I liked John so much. It's not like he's necessarily my type. He's the physical type I like, but personality-wise he's the COMPLETE opposite of the kind of person I usual like, except for the biting wit and cynicism which I (naturally) LOVED. And then he turned out to be a real jerk, so I was REALLY confused. And today, about 5 minutes into When Harry Met Sally, I figured it out!

John is Harry!!

In EVERY single way. I was sitting there, cracking up, and realized that oh my gosh - THAT is why I liked John so much.

And then it happened again while I was reading my new book, The Demon King, by Cinda Williams Chima - a mere 23 pages in. I apologize if the following quote disturbs anyone:

"[His] kisses were intoxicating, and his embraces made her head swim.
It was more than that, though. He had a savage, cynical wit that picked apart the society that had birthed the two of them. He made her laugh, and little did these days" (23).

Like I said - strange. At least that's one John-related mystery solved.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. KP is getting married in like 6 days.
2. I have my own personal pain-remover. He's hilarious.
3. Bryce asked who John was the other night at dinner and Jereme's quick reply was, "A jackass." I love it when Jereme swears.
4. The dream I had with my Matt/Elliot date that included Jereme stringing up John (who was tied up in a burlap sack) from the ceiling by his feet.
5. I went to Barnes and Noble today. Enough said.
6. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles 2: Secret of the Ooze. Michelangelo is my favorite.

Goodbyes

2009-12-24T19:53:00.003-08:00

There's this band that I love, A Fine Frenzy. I first heard of them when iTunes put out a free single by them called, "You Picked Me."

Then, Leslie asked me if I had heard a song by them called, "Almost Lover." I hadn't, so she pulled it up, and I'm ADDICTED!!

I've put it on a playlist at the bottom of my blog, so you can all hear it, if you wish. I didn't make it autostart because that always annoys me...

Here are the lyrics:

Your fingertips across my skin
The palm trees swaying in the wind
Images

You sang me Spanish lullabies
The sweetest sadness in your eyes
Clever trick

I never want to see you unhappy
I thought you'd want the same for me

Goodbye, my almost lover
Goodbye, my hopeless dream
I'm trying not to think about you
Can't you just let me be?
So long, my luckless romance
My back is turned on you
I should've known you'd bring me heartache
Almost lovers always do

We walked along a crowded street
You took my hand and danced with me
Images

And when you left you kissed my lips
You told me you'd never ever forget these images, no

I never want to see you unhappy
I thought you'd want the same for me

Goodbye, my almost lover
Goodbye, my hopeless dream
I'm trying not to think about you
Can't you just let me be?
So long, my luckless romance
My back is turned on you
I should've known you'd bring me heartache
Almost lovers always do

I cannot go to the ocean
I cannot drive the streets at night
I cannot wake up in the morning
Without you on my mind
So you're gone and I'm haunted
And I bet you are just fine
Did I make it that easy
To walk right in and out of my life?

Goodbye, my almost lover
Goodbye, my hopeless dream
I'm trying not to think about you
Can't you just let me be?
So long, my luckless romance
My back is turned on you
I should've known you'd bring me heartache
Almost lovers always do

I can't stop listening to it, or singing it.

Ironic? I don't think so.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. Almost lovers. May he burn in the bad place for all of the lies.
2. Making pies with my mom.
3. I get to see Bryce soon!! (Grannie says you better come see her.)
4. Good books that I haven't felt for SO long.

I'M GRADUATING!!

2009-12-14T18:33:00.002-08:00

Alli challenged me to make a announcement.

So I did one on InDesign for kicks and giggles during finals week, cause let's face it: everyone needs a kick and a giggle during finals. It took me 10 minutes. Literally.

I think I'll miss parts of this town. Mostly Papa Kelsey's...but some other things too. Every time I go on a walk now I study everything I pass, trying to commit it to memory.

Elliot and I were talking about graduation and how it's going to suck not seeing each other anymore. Luckily, there's a facebook for that!

I've made so many good friends here, and I'm going to miss them all so much!

Love to you all!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. Thinking up new responses to the question, "What are your plans for graduation" for every new person who asks me.
2. They finally plowed the roads after 2 days of snow. It's about time.
3. Peter Pan.
4. I found a website entirely dedicated to quotes about reading. I'm in heaven.
5. I finished my educational portfolio and it rocks.

I HATE technology!

2009-12-12T11:50:00.001-08:00

So my computer crashed.

I have no computer.

It's rough. hahaha.

No, but really...

The purpose of this post is to tell you all that if you need me, don't use anything having to do with computers. Call the phone, cause seriously, I can't get it fixed until I'm home. I don't have time. I'll be in the library from now until the end of the century, and I don't get great reception, so if you call me and I don't answer, that's why. It's not cause I don't love you all.

See everyone in Cali really soon!!

Loves!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. The fact that I actually am doing one of these lists when I'm in such a foul mood.
2. Leslie. She calmed me down so much last night. And listened to me go on and on about John.
3. I got to talk to Bryce...ON THE PHONE!!! hahaha. It's the simple things in life.

It's a Hard Nerd Life

2009-12-07T17:05:00.006-08:00

FOR ME! (In case you didn't figure it out, that was supposed to be sung like, "It's a Hard Knock Life" from Annie...)

It's hard to be a nerd. I'm not saying I'm a huge nerd or anything, although I'm sure some out there would argue that I am a huge nerd...I dunno. I digress...

Here's why it's hard: people don't want to do homework. And they know you're smart. And they know you like to do homework. And they know you like them. So what do they do? They take advantage. They start talking to you more in class. They start asking you out. They act all interested in you when really, they're interested in not doing their own homework, but having you do it for them.

I'm so glad I'm graduating.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. Jessie is having a girl. And I got to see the video of the sonogram!
2. I kinda sorta snapped at Brother Allen today, and someone kinda sorta stuck up for me and explained I'm NEVER like that, so there must be something wrong. And then I made Brother Allen laugh really hard and now he thinks I'm cool. He told me.
3. My group presented our PR plan today, so basically I have no more homework for that class ever since I already took the final before Thanksgiving.
4. I actually don't have a ton of homework left at all! I just have to finish tweaking one portfolio, upload everything onto the other portfolio and write one essay for my Humanities class. Cake.
5. I woke up at 9:24 on Sunday morning. Church starts at 9:30. I was a little late, but I made it!
6. Joseph Smith said, "Let what will come; don't deny the faith, and all will be well." I found that quote with my Patriarchal Blessing the other day when I really needed to hear it. And then Leslie was looking at something on my shelf and saw that quote when SHE really needed it (cause I put it on display...)!

Photoshoot!

2009-12-03T20:44:00.014-08:00

Leslie is in a photography class and for her homework, she has to take lots of pictures (go figure...).

I was her homework one day! Her assignment was to play with light and shadow, so she shoved me in all of the dark corners of our apartment and posed me.

I've discovered I would never make a good model because I kept getting laughing fits. Poor Leslie. I think I made her homework harder than it had to be.

These aren't all of the pictures. If you want to see all of them, click here (the pictures start on the second page of the album...)

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Sunday. It can't come fast enough, if you ask me.

2. I got my cap and gown today!!! HOLY CRAP!

3. My dad's surgery went very well.

4. My PR book is done. Finally. Stupid incompetent group members that can't do InDesign so I have to do it all.

5. Jean-Baptiste

6. Garret from the library. Also the freaky guy who asked for my number the other day. Thankfully I had a good reason to say no. :o)

I'm a Mountain Man??

2009-12-02T20:35:00.006-08:00

The last book fest is this week and I presented today!

YAY FOR NO MORE BOOK FESTS!

It's the same deal as last time - I "read" a book, made a book cover and had to talk about it.

This time, my presentation was different though! No more games here!

I read The Mountain Man's Field Guide to Grammar: A Fearless Adventure in Grammar, Style, and Usage by Gary Spina (and yes, I've decided to award him the Longest Book Title EVER award). I had no clue what the heck I was going to do for book fest until yesterday afternoon. I called Jereme to see if he had a possibles sack I could use and steal some Mountain Man-esque stuff from him. He graciously obliged because he's one of the best brothers, ever!

Then, I went to DI today and bought me a flannel shirt for $2 (two dollah, Ashley, two dollah!). I went to my first class packing all of my gear (wearing hiking boots), and then on to book fest where I braided my hair and introduced myself as the Mountain Man Guide to Grammar!

I talked about the author for a bit, and then explained what a possible's sack was, and showed off the one I borrowed from Jereme (and his really cool home-made canteen that everyone was impressed with!) and then I made the coolest connection ever. And here's where it got interesting.

Remember how I said I had no clue what I was going to do until yesterday afternoon?? That's a bit of a lie. I fine tuned it as I was setting up this afternoon. HAHAHA. Oops. As I was setting up my possibles sack display, I realized that the book was actually your own personal possibles sack (say that 4 times fast, I dare you) when it comes to writing!

*angels singing my praise*

Sister Hawker seemed impressed and apparently I am one dang cute Mountain Man.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. My blanket. (You know it's a bad day when the blanket is number one on here...)
2. Sappy music that can make you cry when you know you need to but just can't seem to make it happen on your own.
3. Leslie's amazing photography skills. (There will be a post about this soon, I promise.)

A Post-Thanksgiving Post

2009-11-28T00:01:00.003-08:00

Happy (late) Thanksgiving, everyone!

I'm sorry I'm such a crummy blogger...it's been busy around here lately, so I hope you'll forgive me.

Just for updating purposes:

My brother is a great cook. He cooked me Thanksgiving dinner, and it was delicious. Don't worry, I returned the favor and made him peasant pasta tonight.
I got a full 5 days off of school and I'm miserable. Besides, my roommates (and the majority of the population of Rexburg) are all gone, so it's REALLY quiet. And it freaks me out.
We got the first real snow the other day. It was about 6 inches, I'd say, from what I had to plow off of my car. And my parking lot is now an ice skating rink. Trust me, I've gone for a few rides.
Hillary and I did 2 puzzles that she bought at D.I., and, of course, one of them was missing 13 pieces, but still. Oh, and the one that had all of the pieces glows in the dark! (And those are polar bears, Hillary, not panda bears.)
I finally got home-sick for the first time I can remember since I started college. It's not that I don't miss my family on a regular basis, but I FELT it everywhere over the past week.
I got a letter from my little sister, Carlee, and finally wrote her back. (I love getting letters letters...like, in the mail letters...)
I promised myself I would do all of my projects over this week. Haven't done a single one. Or my giant Humanities test that is due on Monday. Guess what I'm doing tomorrow!!!

Other than that...I refuse to post on the internet the intricate details. Hahaha.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. I'm happy. I know, I know, that's ridiculously repetitive and redundant, redundant and repetitive.
2. Jessie allowing me into her house even though I literally rolled out of bed, threw on jeans and a bra, and pulled my hair back. Thanks Devro, for letting me steal her. And for the input. :o)
3. John is very patient.
4. The Blindside. What an AMAZING movie! WOW it was SOOO good! And, by the way, Sandra Bullock's accent is 100% contagious. ...For me at least; I don't know many other people who catch accents the way I do.
5. All the people who make me laugh all of the time.
6. School on Monday. I can't wait to get back to class and see my teachers and my friends and have something to do everyday. This is making me crazy.
7. I saw Brother Flora at WalMart today with his family and he said, "Ciao, Lauren!" and then looked really confused.

Graduation

2009-11-20T19:48:00.005-08:00

I graduate in one month.

ONE MONTH!!!

I'm excited. And terrified.

hahaha.

I keep getting emails from the school - Grad Night is on the 1st with President and Sister Clark, and then Grad Fest (where you pick up your cap and gown and can have your picture taken and order announcements) is the next week and then the week after that is finals and ...GRADUATION!

I'm excited because this is kind of a huge mile stone. I'm terrified because this is scary. hahaha. I have NO idea what the heck is going to happen. I've been looking for jobs in Arizona or jobs that I can "do from anywhere" because they're done through e-mail and phone communication. I've found one to do from anywhere, which is good because I can do that and save money and when I have the funds, be able to move to AZ. (AMI!)

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. I love all of my family. I have the best brothers and an amazing sister. The in-laws are amazing - love each one. My parents are so supportive and full of wisdom. And I'm lucky enough to live with all of my surviving grandparents. I can call any one of them any time for anything.
2. KP telling me about her wedding dress.
3. Elliot. He's one of my favorite people and I'm super sad I have to leave college and all of my friends up here - like Elliot and Quincy and all of the roomies that I love. I feel like I didn't get enough time with Elliot.
4. My PR teacher actually said the word "WOOT!" on my final exam. I had to stifle my giggle in the testing center because I'm pretty sure that any show of cheer or happiness in the testing center results in an automatic fail.

Book Fest Round 2!

2009-11-08T14:43:00.007-08:00

We had the second book fest this past week (Monday and Wednesay) and I had to present on Wednesday.

I read Ann Radcliffe's The Romance of the Forest from 1791. It's considered the greatest of all gothic novels and the jewel of Radcliffe's career. "Gothic" doesn't mean the same thing in literature as it does to us today. A gothic novel is anything that has to deal with something supernatural - for example, Bram Stoker's Dracula is a gothic novel. As is Stephenie Meyer's Twilight Saga.

I LOVED this book. It's outlandishly ridiculous but it's amazing. It's Victorian, but with ghosts and murder and kidnapping and sword fights. As I was explaining it during my presentation, one of the girls in my class said, "So kind of like The Princess Bride?" And that seemed about right.

I redesigned my book cover yet again so I could play on InDesign some more. (Still love it, just in case you were wondering.) So here it is:

Before:

oooooo....

After:

aaaaahhhh.....

For my presentation (since the last one wasn't such a hit, apparently) I decided to play a little game again, but this time I had typed up little scenarios from the book involving all of the characters several times over. For example, I had: "The man you love - who has just saved you yet again from the evil Marquis - has been hit on the head and is bleeding profusely. You don't think the doctor is capable, what do you do?" And then the person reading would explain what they would do and why, and I'd explain what the characters did.

I think this round went over a lot better than the last round because Sister Hawker complimented me several times and was using my presentation and book cover as good examples in class on Friday as we discussed Book Fest.

If you're looking for something interesting to read - pick it up!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me toady:

1. Alli. Thank you so much, love, for Friday. You're the bestest ever. For reals.

2. Elliot started a conversation with me about killing John on Saturday. If only he knew... Bwahaha.

3. I designed a website for Sister Soper over the weekend and we'll see on Monday morning if my design gets chosen.

4. Laundry Day.

5. I've seen Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince 4 times in theatres. I've only paid twice. :o)

6. I got an invitation to a certain someone's bridal shower. ;o)

So Excited For This:

2009-11-02T20:16:00.003-08:00

Disney's, The Princess and the Frog.

I bought the Diamond Edition of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs and it has a few special features that are pretty cool on it. For example, the first preview I've seen outside of theaters for The Princess and the Frog and a really fun behind the scenes sneek peek at The Princess and the Frog! So tonight, as I was doing my powerpoint for the next Book Fest (which is on Wednesday, so expect another post soon) I put in Snow White with my roommate Alex. The behind the scenes look had the first 6 minutes of The Princess and the Frog!

It looks SO good! I'm super excited for it!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Goth Pod. :o) Shut up, all of you.

2. My roommates have really nice boyfriends.

3. I got to chit chat with Alli today which was fun cause I needed girl talk. :o) Please see #1.

4. I got ANOTHER letter from Shauna!

5. Since Thanksgiving is looking kind of ...slow... I've made a resolution to do my last Book Fest over that week and see what other huge projects I can get a jump on, like the second job portfolio.

6. The Romance of the Forest, by Ann Radcliffe. I liked it despite how ridiculous it was. Ask Leslie, I was screaming at the book, but couldn't stop reading.

The Room Fraught with Peril

2009-10-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

That is what Leslie and I live in - the Room Fraught with Peril.

It's quite ridiculous, really.

I think the biggest danger is the desk. I call it the demon desk. It's positioned against the wall between the head of my bed and the head of Leslie's. The thing is, something isn't right. There is about a 6 inch gap between the head of Leslie's bed and the edge of the demon desk and there is absolutely NO gap between the demon desk and the head of my bed. I actually think there is about a 1/4" overhang of the demon desk onto my bed. So whenever I move in my sleep, I hit something - usually my hands. Consequently, my hands are always bruised. And I keep bumping my legs on the corner of the demon desk and getting rather large bruises, like this one:

And then, the door doesn't open all of the way because there isn't enough space between the door jamb and the foot of Leslie's bed. Our beds are really crappy captain's beds and the drawer under the heads of our beds is, of course, buried under the demon desk. Naturally, we don't keep anything in those drawers because it's just too dangerous to crawl under the demon desk to access it.

Then, there is a shelf that goes along our wall from the corner of the head of Leslie's bed and wraps around behind our demon desk to my head, along my bed and all the way to the corner by the closet (again, I get the worst of it because it goes along the length of my bed) and Leslie is constantly hitting her head on the ledge of the shelf while I'm always hitting my knees as I roll over.

The window is really hard to open (especially because you have lean OVER the demon desk to reach it) and I've broken 7 finger nails on it.

And then, one day, Leslie got deathly ill. I took care of her the best I could. She didn't have swine flu, but a virus that was acting ridiculously swine flu-like. She had a fever, ear infection, she was throwing up, had a horrible hacking cough, and a stuffy nose (among other ...less pleasant ailments). Our room became the quarantine/sick bay. So naturally, I got whatever virus Leslie had, just it wasn't as severe. I only had a REALLY high fever (it got as high as 102.1), a hacking cough and stuffy nose that lasted for about 5 days (I still have a cough though, and it's been like 2 weeks) whereas Leslie was in bed for 10 days and still has a cough as well.

There are hardwood floors in the vanity and living room, and of course, right outside our bedroom doors. Well, the spot in front of our bedroom door is REALLY slippery for some reason and Leslie and I are constantly sliding around on it and I just know that one day we're going to hit the floor HARD.

Like I said, our room is a death trap.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Leslie's mom drove up from Brigham City to take care of her and got here the day I got my fever - it was really good timing because I didn't feel well enough to take care of her anymore. (Not that I was doing a whole lot, but really, that fever kicked my butt and knocked me out.)

2. John. He's freaking ridiculous. I hate him. He's such a boy. He flirts with me, then ignores me, and now he's back to flirting with me. So much so that our English teachers have both commented on us needing to "knock it off or get dropped."

3. I love Shauna's missionary blog. Thanks Jayne for updating all of us!

4. I got really good feedback from my class mates about my online job portfolio. That's right, I have an online job portfolio.

5. I love, love, love Victorian literature, and I've just picked up what is regarded as the best, and first true, Gothic Novel. I'm a huge fan.

Childhood

2009-10-29T15:48:00.008-07:00

I have a lot of really fond memories from my childhood, and this is definitely one of them!

The original "Dr. Dolittle" starring Rex Harrison.

I don't have class on Tuesdays and Thursdays so I spend the day doing homework and working my butt off. I sat down to eat lunch today and turned on the tv. I was flipping through channels looking for something to provide noise while I cooked and that's when I saw that "Dr. Dolittle" was on!!

I was so excited!!

I did my homework in front of the tv so I could watch. I can't remember the last time I saw this movie. I love it! And I totally have a crush on Matthew Mugg (real name - Anthony Newley). He's Irish, and I'm pretty sure that has a lot to do with it. And he sings.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. Excedrine. I hate that medicine only treats symptoms and doesn't cure whatever causes headaches, but I'm grateful for it anyway.
2. I got to hang out with Jereme for a little bit yesterday.
3. It's 5:00 pm and I haven't made my bed yet. That NEVER happens. Even when I was sick and could barely move, I made my bed.
4. Thank you, Alli, for saying that "my guy" wasn't hit by a truck, just married the wrong girl. It feels like that more and more...
5. Alex and Brittney have the nicest boyfriends in town. They're great guys and I'm glad they spend a lot of time here.

Missionary Mail!

2009-10-19T19:35:00.005-07:00

Shauna wrote me a letter a little bit ago and sent to California because I didn't have my address here in Rexburg when she left.

It arrived today!!

It's so funny how her handwriting totally made me nostalgic. I almost started to cry when I saw it. (I've been running a fever of around 100 degrees for the last about 3 days, so that's what I blame it on...) I haven't gotten a hand written letter from a missionary prob since Eric was out...

The letter was 100% Shauna. And it made my day. I could totally hear her when I read it - it was almost like when we used to talk on the phone when she was in NYC and I was in Seattle. hahaha. I've missed her cute little voice. And the growl.

Oh, the growl.

Some funny(direct) quotes:

"Oh my gosh - must write Lauren ASAP"
"Do you have any MC's - who are single? HaHa!"
"Well, can you believe I've been on my mission for over a month? 1/18 of my way through."
She asked if I was going to AZ for KP's wedding and then said, "You could always stay at my house! Just call Jayne. Seriously. Call."

Ahh, I miss her. And a lot of other awesome people, but today - mostly Shauna.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

Thermometers.
Tylenol cold multi-symptom severe. It's AMAZING.
My mom pushing me to go after Goth Pod. It's funny. And scary cause I'm starting to listen to her.
Inappropriate prank texting.
USPS.
3 boys, in various relationship statuses, all talking at once on the phone to see why I wasn't in school today.
I know that I can totally call Shauna's family to stay with them if I need to be in AZ.
Job hook ups.
I haven't put gas in my car since September 15th and I still have a little over a quarter of a tank left. I love my little car.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, BRYCE!

2009-10-12T23:38:00.004-07:00

It's Bryce's birthday today!

So, happy birthday!

Bryce, you're my favorite person EVER. Hands down. (...thus far. Hahaha.) You crack me up, and you keep me fat with your brownies. You were my very first real date ever, the only boy that ever made me even think about going to a high school dance, my first husband, my very first unsupervised road trip, threw me my first surprise party, and took me to my first club in Hollywood.

I was going to try to think of my favorite thing we ever did together, but couldn't pin it down to just one thing, so here' s a quick list (instead of a things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today list):

We went to Ruby's one night and you spilled pumpkin shake all over your face.
Car dancing. Every time.
Setting the goldfish for Ashley's wedding free.
And then meeting those really random guys who invited us to a party because they liked our car dancing as we were driving back to my house at like 1 am.
My red lint hat. I loved it.
Making halloween costumes together.
Hiding in the girl's bathroom all those years ago from Tim the Chainsaw Murderer.
You got ABBA stuck in my head for like a month.
All of the cancer jokes. I tell them up here sometimes and no one appreciates them.
I'm pretty sure you wrote every poem I had to turn in for Mrs. McCauley's class my senior year.
The Car Wars.
Being willing to help me out when my cleptomania flares up. :o)
The intense games of spoons we used to play.
Remember how we used to be able to have conversations without really using words? It came in handy at Disneyland at least once that I remember...

Basically you're a stud despite being terminally ill.

I miss you lots, friend. I hope your recovery is going well and that you're causing trouble.

Book Fest part 1

2009-10-05T15:11:00.010-07:00

A while back, I told you all about Sister Hawker's Book Fest that I have to do three times this semester - it was a big project...

Well, today was the first day and that means I'm done with this round and don't have to do this again until November! :o) YAY!

I knew right away that I wanted to re-design my book cover for my visual, because I had no idea what the picture on the cover of my copy was until I finished the book...

So here we go!

Before:

After:

I used InDesign CS4 to redesign it and it turned out so good that my teacher came to my presentation table, interrupted my presentation with an unpleasant glare, and said, "Where's your visual, Sister Conley?" I explained that she was holding it. HAHAHA. Poor Sister Hawker, she felt bad, but I'm hoping that means I'll get a good grade on at least that portion.

Can I just gush real quick about how much I love InDesign? Seriously - I want to be an editor for a publishing company so I can do this. I love editing (my new slogan is: Lauren Conley - bettering the world one typo at a time), but design is so much fun, too! It took me a little over an hour to put together.

For the other parts of the presentation I turned my reading guide into a tri-fold brochure, which seemed to go over pretty well. And for my actual presentation portion, I created a game of memory with all of the character's names. If the people at my booth found a match, I told them all about that particular character, and answered any questions they had. Sister Hawker gave me a run for my money, but luckily I BS EXTRAORDINARLY well for a Mormon. :o)

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. InDesign. I want it, I want it, I want it! But it's SO expensive! ...maybe one day...

2. Goth Pod. Really - he makes my day every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. I wish he was mine. And yes, I know that's coveting and I'm going to hell.

3. My funny quotes note on FB. I laugh every time I re-read it. Even though I already know what's on it.

4. I think I spent a grand total of MAYBE 4 hours preparing for book fest. That's including creating a powerpoint, new book cover, reading guide and planning my presentation. And I feel pretty good about it so far. I got a lot of compliments, at least.

5. I'm the chief designer for my OTHER English class, and that means more InDesign time for me! YAY!

6. My new favorite Christmas song: "Fairytale of New York" by the Pogues. Seriously - the Pogues do it best.

Lois Lowry

2009-09-20T06:00:00.003-07:00

The Gods must have been smiling upon BYU-Idaho this semester!

Every semester, we have a someone who has made their career through the English language come and speak to us. Usually, they're unheard of essayists and they suck.

Not this semester! We got Lois Lowry!!! For those of who you who are staring the screen going, "Who??" She wrote The Giver, Gossamer, Gathering Blue, A Summer to Die, The Willoughby's, and quite a few others. She's amazing and The Giver is one of my all time favorites.

So Friday night she spoke in the Hinckley chapel from 7-8:30-ish. She spoke about EVERYTHING! She talked a lot about the inspiration for her books (helpful, to me), how the middle of a book is the hardest to write (encouraging, to me), her family, converting her books into plays, her friends, and pretty much everything you could think about. She read from a few of her books, and her memoir. She's very funny and incredibly touching. This is one amazing woman!

After her talk, she stayed to sign books. Unfortunately, my copy of The Giver is buried under the stairs in California. So I took my journal!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. This is the second author I've met who has signed something for me. I'm going to keep trying for more!
2. Lois Lowry is amazing.
3. I want to read The Willoughby's. It sounds hilarious!
4. I see Stewart everywhere and he never acknowledges he knows who I am.

My Bear

2009-09-19T15:33:00.003-07:00

Chelsea and Nicole came over to the house the night I was packing up to say goodbye and to help me load up my car - which they've gotten quite good at, actually.

So, somehow Jake ended up with one of my old bears. (I didn't even know I had him still, but apparently somewhere in the house I have all kinds of stuff!) The first thing Jake does with a stuffed animal is chew off it's eyes. (He must not like to be stared at as he's dismembering innocent little bears...) Then he'll go for the nose, and finally he'll pick one limb that he focuses the majority of his attention on.

You can see all of this in my poor little bear.

Notice, he has no face. He's missing his leg. He has no stuffing, and most importantly, Chelsea's hand is up his butt.

Poor bear!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. I finished all of my homework for the weekend in about an hour. And I'm taking 12 credits. WOO HOO!

2. Nicole Norton laughs at pretty much everything I say. It's nice to know someone appreciates the humor.

3. Lyrics that speak to you.

4. Good quotes from good books.

LBS

2009-09-13T06:00:00.002-07:00

That's pronounced "Pounds."

Bryce, Scott and I started a band.

Thank you, Bryce, for being so bored at work every day and making this album cover for us...

How did this happen, you may ask? First, Scott had his pinky finger painted (this will make sense later...)

It all started when Bryce and I went to Disneyland. We had talked all day about how much Bryce loves Mama Mia. Honestly - the retard got ABBA songs stuck in my head ALL day long. He found out that I hadn't seen it and decided that after our first Beverly Hills excursion we would go back to his place and watch the movie. We only made it half way through before we were all exhausted and had to call it quits.

The next time we hung out, I painted Scott's second toe a lovely shade of pink, (thank you, Nancy!) for no good reason. We talked about how much we liked ABBA (and by "we" I mean mostly Bryce) and then Bryce got yet another genius idea - to start a band that had an ABBA feel to it. The first step was deciding that since ABBA got their name by using the first initials of each band member's names, was making our own name: LBS (pronounced "Pounds"). From there it was smooth sailing. Scott is a concert pianist, Bryce can sing and sorta play the guitar and I ...don't really know what I'll be doing. HAHAHA. Bryce said I can have a cowbell or tambourine. We're going to wear incredibly outlandish outfits (I love a good assonance) and - please keep in mind, I had NO hand in this part of the decision at all - we're going to all keep the second toe of our right foot painted. We'll change the color once a week. We're also going to keep our true nationalities a secret by speaking with different accents and having 3 different houses in 3 different countries that we rotate through. THE WORLD WILL NEVER KNOW!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Bryce and Scott. These boys are amazing and I'm so glad I'm friends with them. They crack me up.

2. Scott's car dying. And then he thought I was sweet for giving his car a jump - like I would leave him stranded in Beverly Hills!

3. The boys have nasty toes. Scott has a gross big toe nail - I don't know why - and Bryce's pinky toe on his right foot is webbed and has 2 toenails on it. I swear to you - I've seen it.

4. Scott looks like Dr. Hodgins on Bones. No, really...look it up. It's freaky.

5. Without me, they'd just be BS.

Movie Night

2009-09-12T06:00:00.000-07:00

Nicole and I started something of a tradition when I was home for the 7 week break. We watch a movie, chit chat, and eat homemade caramel popcorn.

The most recent movie night was featuring Coraline. We watched it in 3-D - hence the glasses.

The movie stunk. Nicole fell asleep for part of it and worst of all - somehow I ruined the caramel corn!! I like chewy caramel corn and this batch came out rock hard. My teeth still hurt.

Best one? Sense and Sensibility on a Sunday with a particularly delicious serving of caramel corn because I doubled the caramel part of the recipe.

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:

1. Photo op! FUH-KINK!

2. Hillary, Britney, Alex, Molina, and Leslie.

3. Apple juice. YUM!

Beverly Hills Part 2

2009-09-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

This post is a little bit past due.

On August 27th, Bryce held his silent auction in Beverly Hills. Chelsea and I went (THANK YOU Chelsea for going with me - I think I would have died without you...) and had a pretty good time, all in all.

Clubs are NOT my thing - at all - but this was for the best cause possible, so I went. Supported by my headband. hahaha. I love that thing.

Bryce schmoozing.

There was this giant guy there that looked like he should be playing the Hulk ("excuse me, can I touch your pecks?") and of course, the Chinese lady with the see-through clothing was back...in more see-through clothing and BOOTY SHORTS! Scott and I played a round of real or fake and I got to meet some of Bryce's friends from the mission. They were super cool.

Scott, Chelsea and I.

The auction went well. Bryce made about $6,000 and that gave him the last little bit he needed to pay off one full lung surgery! Woo hoo!

Things that induce laughter/smiles/happy feelings in me today:
1. How easily I get along with Scott when really I've known him for like a week...
2. Chelsea's totally rocking dance moves. While sitting down.
3. Nicole not realizing that Scott and Bryce both have beards.
4. Stud.