Sunday, October 31, 2010

To Write is to Live

"The most beautiful things are those that madness prompts and reason writes."- Andre Gide

I've quite possibly gone crazy. Tomorrow I will join with many other writers and begin a month long process of placing words right next to each other to form a novel. The goal is 50,000 by midnight on November 30. Well, I'm curious to see what comes of it. I'm excited because it starts tomorrow, but my plan for this is no plan. That is, I have no plot only a protagonist. Nanowrimo, here I come. See you in 31 days.

Friday, October 22, 2010

Life feels Weird

"Life feels weird, Bailey."-My brother

Tonight at the dinner table my sister was talking about how weird something felt, and the quote was my little brother's response. I'm sure he was just joking or doing that bit where he says something random or off beat, but I heard that and it struck me as really profound. I mean, think about it. Life really does feel weird. Some days seem almost magical when the day before nothing went right. In life, things get scarier in the dark. Life brings pain, and that never feels natural or normal, but it definitely feels weird. I think its official-my brother is a genius. He's always had a way with the spoken word.

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Fight for Love

"Do you think its possible to finally decide that you really, truly love someone, but not end up marrying him?"-Robin Jones Gunn (As You Wish)

The girl jolted down the street. Her heart was pounding in her ears. This isn't happening, this isn't happening she thought. He's got to still be alive she told herself again and again. His shaggy blond hair was stained with the tears she had shed the night before. His bright blue eyes were sinking into her uttermost thoughts. She loved him, and she couldn't lose him-not now. It was too soon.
"Please don't be dead, John," she whispered as she ran to his house. "Please don't leave me."
She ran through his front door hoping and praying that somehow he was still alive. She burst into the living room and saw his family crying. His brother and father never looked so distraught. With a glance at his sister's face she knew the chances were slim. The diabetic coma was too much for his frail body. The phone rang breaking the silence.
"We need the family of John Paul-Jones to come to Union Hospital; I'm afraid he hasn't made it."
She collapsed to the ground in tears.

Saturday, September 25, 2010

Falling, Fallen, Fall

"Delicious autumn! My very soul is wedded to it, and if I were a bird I would fly about the earth seeking the successive autumns."-George Eliot

Crisp. Crunch. Woosh.
gold red and brown
the jerseys and cheering
plush soft elegant sweaters
contentedness-Thanksgiving
rain and cool breeze
smiling faces and pretty places
vacations in the cabin
dreamers peak of inspiration
a solid melody
rollercoasters of simplicity
one fading breath
new beginnings and happiness
sparkling eyes
the queer juxtaposed dance called fall

Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Dancing and Mirror Ball Trophys

"Not knowing you can't do something, is sometimes all it takes to do it."-Ally Carter

Well, first off-Ally Carter is a genius, and therefore, you must go and read her blog post on the subject matter at hand- (www.allycarter.com/blog/). It's true. Authors aren't given enough 'celebrity' credit on TV or in Hollywood, but they're way cooler than Brad Pitt and whoever that girl that he married then divorced is. Authors are plain awesome, so I'm asking that everone join the Author Dancing Movement and pick up their picket fence signs and get an author on Dancing With The Stars for season 12. Pick your favorite author, then if you're a twitterer, go to @OfficiallyAlly and enter in the contest! Seriously. Get your favorite. author. dancing!

Monday, August 30, 2010

Inspiration Comes in Many Forms

"Scrapes of the heart are those things that dig at us. It's our burning questions, our frustrations, our failures, our pain and angers. Scrapes of the heart are uncomfortable because we try to bury them in a place where talking is unnecessary."-blog post (www.wisdomfromthemiddle.blogspot.com)

There are times when I wish I was still in elementary school, and my hardest decision was what to play at recess. Now, I hate choosing between favorites. Why must I choose between something when little boys across America get to have two favorite super heroes. What if my super heroes are writing and dancing instead of Superman and Batman? Does it really matter in the long run?

Wednesday, August 18, 2010

Summer Rose

"You may say I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one. I hope someday you'll join us, and the world will live as one."-John Lennon

As I draw in that final breath
I know that I am ready
Tomorrow, whatever happens
I'll be waiting and excited
I pray everyday that the next day
I'll still be me
even when winter rains and freezes
I'll still be me
And when I feel myself slipping away
I'll close my eyes and remember
the swaying palm trees, the rigid mountains
the feel of the ocean breeze on my skin
my new friends and the freedom I had to fly
Then I'll again be myself:
the Summer Rose dead in the cold of winter
but not anymore, this time
I'll be the Summer Rose
that lives forever

Monday, August 16, 2010

Just Be Yourself

"Be yourself; everyone else is already taken."-Oscar Wilde

Haven't we all heard that one before. I'm sure if you ask anyone that knows me they'll say that I know who I am and what I want and that I know where I'm going, but I don't. And that's exactly my point. Even if I look as free as the bird singing out your window, sometimes I feel that there are chains shackled to me. Holding me tight. I feel like everyone wants an answer. What are you going to be when you grow up? Don't you remember being asked that by your parents? For a while, I thought it was just a fun game like I Spy, but one day, it dawned on me that my parents were curious as to what I wanted to be so that they could prepare me for just that-even if I was just seven years old. Maybe that's not true, but that's what it feels like to me. What if I had said that I wanted to be a free spirit when I grew up? What would they have done then? Told me that it wasn't a career or that it didn't give me money to support myself. It's just like when a kid says that he wants to be Superman when he grows up. They all immediately team up to discourage the little boy from being a hero and saving lives with a cape on. A badge is much better suiting. I think this is where the lack of male dreamers stems from. Boys dream too, it's just that sometimes, their dreams are different. The people that I'm most scared to be myself around are sometimes my family and friends. Because what I want would inconvenience them, so why wish for something so selfish when I can keep it to myself and just move on, being happy with what I've always had. Even if it's different now. I've been scared to answer questions with a justifiable I don't know. Sometimes, I just. Don't. Know. And that's okay. I don't have to know what I want to be when I grow up. I can want to be a dozen different things at the same time and not know which one I'll choose until I look up and realize my surroundings and that I'm actually doing it. Until then, world, I just don't know is who I am.

Tuesday, August 10, 2010

Truer Still

"Even in literature and art, no man who bothers about originality will ever be original: whereas if you simply try to tell the truth (without caring twopence how often it has been told before) you will, nine times out of ten, become original without ever having noticed it."- C.S. Lewis

Sometimes it seems we get caught up in the performance of everyday life, and then we forget the simple truth of it all. The truth seems so easy to forget that we must be throwing it out the window as we speed down the highway. It feels good to get back to home-the truth. It's like smelling a familiar scent again. The memories come flooding back in. Suddenly, you're yourself again, your favorite book isn't the latest Twilight installment just because that's what everyone else is reading, your favorite band has about twenty fans because its the local band that practices in the garage down the street, not Justin Bieber. Your mind's all confused because you got caught up in what everyone was saying that you don't know what to believe. Now is the time to clear your mind and realize that what you knew all along is the truth and there never should've been any confusion. I just love those moments when all is clear, but it seems that there are all too few of these encounters with the truth. I guess we all need to work a little harder at listening for the truth amongst the lies of the world.

Thursday, August 5, 2010

The End

"If you live to be a hundred, I want to live to be a hundred minus one day so I never have to live without you."-A.A. Milne

For a full week, thirty kids were family. Coming from different countries with different backgrounds, somehow they all meshed into one. Inside jokes to forever be remembered, crazy pictures, and forever friends all come out of the deal. The schedule is packed with loads of activities that too soon the week is over. The tight breath-taking hugs are passed around and final 'I'll add you on facebook' words are said. The suitcases are packed and tears fall shamelessly down their faces while they squeeze in one more inside joke. Leaving family is never easy. Even the ones who were yelling the whole week are dearly loved and missed. No more awesome shimming and impromptu dance parties at nine-thirty at night. The end is so bittersweet. The end is never welcomed in anything, for any reason. Why would one want to leave sunny southern California or amazing friends that so suddenly became family? There is no reason for the end. What's the point when the real story is only half over? So say one final goodbye and know that this isn't the end. Not even close.

Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Intersection

"'This is it!' he said. 'This is where we are. Somewhere in the middle. Kind of like being right in the middle of the street.'"-Todd (Robin Jones Gunn Yours Forever)

Forever is the intersection at 32nd and Newport. Green. Yellow. Red. And back again. Daily, cars zoom through and think nothing of it, but today, today I stand in the intersection and gaze at the surroundings. The whipping wind and the swaying palm trees. As I stop traffic for my own pleasure and enjoyment and fulfilment, I am complete. This is me. This is it, I think to myself as I spin slowly and memorize the sights and smells. Gus! I see Gus! What an ironic and amazing miracle of timing in this slowed down frozen moment in life. It's one of a kind. It's organic and inconvenient and that's what makes it real. My heart swells just thinking of what this place and time means. I am giddy and whole and for one moment, I understand the meaning of life. It is the intersection at 32nd and Newport.

Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Ninjas, Moustaches, and a little thing called California

"Every traveler has a home of his own, and he learns to appreciate it the more from his wandering."-Charles Dickens

First, I must apologize for being absent for nearly two weeks. I was on vacation and without a computer; therefore, I couldn't blog, and I missed it dearly.

California is different. They don't have sweet tea. They don't have midnight performances by singing crickets. They do, on the other hand, have amazing weather and they have entire stores dedicated to socks! I love socks. The crazier the better. Mismatched, roses, Hello Kitty, Snow White, stripes, stars- you name it and they have it. It was awesome. I also made many friends while I was there. They come from all over the world-Canada, Mexico, Kazakhstan, England, and the United States. I miss them terribly. But I've missed home, too. I missed all my creative writing buddies-Anna, Mary Margaret, Hannah, and Ms. Monda. I missed my friends and family and, well, just home. All around. Now, I must see about dinner and sneaking off with the Season Three DVD of Psych with deleted scenes and audio commentary of my favorite season! By the way, Sage Brocklebank is totally my favorite even if Dule Hill can tap dance awesomely.

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Going, but not Gone

"We are all travelers in the wilderness of this world, and the best we can find in our travels is an honest friend."-Robert Louis Stevenson

Stunned, Ryder stood there by Lacey's hospital bed and held her limp hand, remembering her last words before she fell unconscious. He swallowed hard and glanced at Lacey's face. A peaceful expression had taken residence there after a momentary look of discomfort as she lost consciousness. Silent tears streaked down Ryder's face as he allowed himself to think about the possibility of losing his best friend forever. Ryder thought back to the day when they first met.

It was summer-June fourth-to be exact. He had just moved into the house next to her Grandma. They met outside in the field spanning between the yards. She was four and he had just turned five. Her beautiful golden ringlets glowed in the sun and her light pink bow went perfectly with her lady bug dress. Lacey was the one to strike up the conversation all those years ago. "Hi, I'm Lacey. What's your name?" she had asked. "I'm Ryder," he had replied while pointing a finger at his chest. "Do you want to play with me?" Lacey asked, just as her older cousin Vera walked out of the house and down towards Lacey and Ryder. He replied, "Sure," and they were instantly best friends. That day, they skipped rope and played with balls, and chased each other in the field with Vera watching over them. Dinner came all too soon and suddenly Lacey was inviting Ryder over for spaghetti and meatballs. Vera helped Ryder and Lacey ask permission from both Ryder's mom and their Grandma. When both agreed, Ryder and Lacey happily skipped around the kitchen table until the food was on the table.

Ryder squeezed Lacey's hand silently praying that she would be okay. The door squeaked open and in walked nurses and doctors who promtly whisked him out of the room while they evaluated Lacey's condition. Ryder collapsed into the nearest chair and let the tears fall and the memories flood his mind.

Tomorrow is Another Day

"Gravity had taken over, and I was hurtling towards the unknown, praying that it would be better than the place I just left."-Ally Carter

Today is just one of those days that will all too soon become just a blur, a fading memory from a summer that will soon blend in with all the others. I'll be confusing this road trip with another and still won't know the day that it happened. And then there's the little thing called tomorrow. Lately, I've been pondering what tomorrow will be like. I guess I'll never really know because there is no day called tomorrow. It simply doesn't exist. But I still dream of what I wish it would be. I can almost feel the breeze against my bare arms and the chill racing down my spine with the excitement of something new and unforetold. There also seems to be a yesterday, but it is bittersweet and I'd rather not cry, so that's all I will say on that. I have few regrets from the past that I will correct in the future and I must move on and live my life facing forward, not running backwards. That never ends well.

Monday, July 19, 2010

Coffeshops before Hastings

"Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?" -Mary Oliver

Many bodies gathered in the small cramped building in the heat of summer. Some were there for coffee. Some wanted to hear what others had to say, and still, some were there to speak their minds in foreign riddles. With everyone there and no air conditioning, some passersby found they could only focus on the sweltering heat and the close proximity they were in with the next sticky body to their left and right. Some were so captivated by the words, that only in silence did they notice the uncomfortable heat. The words that flowed were magical and life changing.

The hot coffee shop was an antique itself, filled with mismatched chairs and tables. Covering the walls were paintings of all sorts. Inside the four walls stood the greatest art of all-words. It had neon signs announcing and welcoming the passing public. An old pay phone stood the solemn solider outside the main window. A shaded deck filled with metal chairs gave a full view of the small southern town of which the coffee shop existed. Across the street, a business building and a convenient parking lot. Beside the shop began a local college campus starting with art buildings and odd sculptures. Enveloping this interesting world was the direct product of the fiery ball cascading, pushing bright hot light into the lives of all.

Sunday, July 18, 2010

The Curious Case of Crunchy Carrots

"Not knowing you can't do something is sometimes all it takes to do it."-Ally Carter

Love is a sweatshirt.

In Church, our pastor has been teaching us about "What Christians should wear" and this week he was talking about love. When he mentioned that it's supposed to go over all the others, I thought Love is a sweatshirt. Sweatshirts are so comfy and often they remind me of certain things-vacations, characters, places, people. Remembering is fun, but looking forward to the future and new adventures is exciting. I get butterflies in my tummy every time I think about the future. A small smile forms from my lips, and my eyes glow brighter than ever.

But you've forgotten...

Sometimes, sad things try to weigh you down, but those are the moments when it's most crucial that you throw your hands in the air, release your smile, sing at the top of your lungs, and dance. Sometimes, crying doesn't do the healing. But hugging, smiling, and laughing do.

Live as if you were to die tomorrow.

So no matter what's going on-get moving! You've only got one life to live, and it better be worth it. So please, make every second count and take every chance you get to truly live. You'll be happier for it.

Friday, July 16, 2010

When I'm the Rain

"I know it's hard on a rainy day-you want to shut the world out and just be left alone, but don't run out on your faith."-Carrie Underwood

Rain is the most peaceful sound in the world. For some reason, I prefer thunderstorms to sunny days. I always say that I love a good cloudy, rainy day. One filled with lots of tea and books. That sounds good, but when I'm the rain-that's not so fun. When it's stormy inside me, I just want to cry and feel okay. I want to know that things will get better and that I'll find reasons to smile again. In those cases, I dearly miss the sunshine. It's hard to cope when the clouds fall, but we all seem to find a way to make things work out for the better. So to all those who need a little rain or who are experiencing some now, never ever give up hope. There's always sunshine at the end of the tunnel. Take these words as your rainbow and run to comfort like chocolate.

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

The Adrenaline Laced Combo of Hope and Adventure

"The greatest mistake a man can make is to be afraid of making one."-Fortune from tonight's cookie

She stands on the corner of Front Street and Main. The grey clouds hang low, threatening rain, but she doesn't care. Her smile is brighter than the sun could ever be. Her eyes sparkle prettier than any diamond ever found. She has no raincoat or umbrella to protect her. She is herself, jumping off of the cliff of hiding and facades, parasailing over the open ocean of hope and adventure and the future. Chances are that she'll fail, but the worst case scenario is that she will be swimming with the dolphins in the shimmering ocean happier, still, that she took the risk and jumped. She is oblivious to the clouds and the cynical pessimists of the world because all that she sees is opportunity and happiness and chances that, no matter how dangerous, must be taken. She sees that the only true success is not metered by how much money is made, what kind of car you drive, or how big your house is, but rather, success is found by creating yourself and actually living in your own skin. She's going to be on top of the world someday and conquer all.

Saturday, July 10, 2010

Gone

"They always say time changes things, but you actually have to change them yourself."-Andy Warhol

Don't you see
all the energy she spends
just so she won't cry
in front of you?
Everyday
listening to her iPod
to help her cope
or make her worse?
Either way, it's done
and she's gone
not herself.
not happy.
not caring-
about anything but what's
already gone

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Saving the world one Crown at a Time

"Kathy Morningside: 'They steal my life. They steal my beauty pageant!'
Gracie Hart: 'Hey! It is not a beauty pageant. It is a scholarship program.'
Kathy: 'Yeah, yeah.'
Gracie: 'YES!' "-Miss Congeniality

I don't really know what a superhero is. But, what I do know is that the thirty-four most qualified teens inside these state borders to be considered super, were the contestants of the MAOT Pageant. Everyone seems to think that girls that compete in "Beauty Contests" are shallow, have eating disorders, are airheads, and are completely fake. So, how many of the stereotypical pageant girls have I encountered? Well, let's see...if you carry the one, then...oh, yeah-NONE! For example, the current MAOT 2010 is Mackenzie Bryant. She is about to go into her senior year in High School. She has a four point GPA and got third place in the go green competition. She is healthy and beautiful. She has her own personal miracle story. When she was born, she was sent to Children's Hospital and was given a ten percent chance to live. They put her on ECMO and said that if she lived, she would have mental health issues. Today, she is brilliant, nice, and she has the best turns and leaps I've ever seen on stage. Well, those doctors were right about one thing, she definitely isn't normal. She's awesome. For the ECMO, they had to cut an artery in her neck. It wasn't supposed to ever be functional again, but it grew back together and is normal today. Mackenzie, isn't only a miracle, but she helps miracles such as her own happen everyday. She has fundraisers and makes speeches to gain support for ACH and everything that they do. She has poise, and class, and can definitely get an audience's attention whether it's by dancing or speaking, she's a master at both. And that was only ONE example of all of the fabulous teens competing in the MAOT pageants. I haven't even gotten started on my sister, or Rachel Harless, or Madison Watkins. Just remember this because all of the crazy pageant people are featured on TLC's Toddlers and Tiaras.

Saturday, July 3, 2010

Truth behind the Crown

"Facts do not cease to exist because they are ignored."-Aldous Huxley

Too many people today see pageants and think that the girls are just pretty airheads. Instead, they are brilliant and poised and funny. Actually, the average ACT score for the top 5 Miss America contestants in 2006 was a 31. These girls know how to answer questions and laugh in the face of pressure. And they look beautiful while doing it. They are talented-they can dance and sing and play instruments. This week, 34 of the greatest 13-17 year olds in Arkansas, gathered in Hot Springs for MAOT. Later tonigt, they will crown the next Miss Arkansas' Outstanding Teen with Savvy Shields doing the crowning. I must say that I would hate to be one of the judges trying to decide who should be in the top ten + one more from people's choice and then the ultimate winner, the one who goes home with the crown.

Friday, July 2, 2010

Scene Again

"We are what we pretend to be, so we must be careful about what we pretend to be."-Kurt Vonnegut

Here we all are, once again. Pretending that everything is the same, protecting everything and nothing at the same time. Look how many fake smiles we can exchange between us. It's a record I'd say. But the one true moment was when I saw you and smiled. When you saw me and hugged me. When we said hello and talked. Like old times. Everything was fine, for one odd moment. Too, soon, we are back to playing the game, for it is just a game. Not a clue who's winning, though. More conversations and smiles, but these are fake. At the end of the day, I feel victorious, but also confused. Was your acting that good, or were you honest and real? I can't really tell. Still, I know that the hug from earlier made me happier than I've been in a long while. It was like a hot shower, a warm blanket and a soft bed, and a good night's sleep.

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Glitter and Sparkly Dresses

"After all, Ginger Rogers did everything Fred Astaire did. She just did it backwards and in high heels."- Ann Richards

Tonight was the first prelim for MAOT. Half of the girls did their talent, and they were all amazing. Mackenzie Bryant won that section with her fabulous dance. The other half of the girls did evening gown and active wear. I saw several push-ups tonight, and not one was the girly kind! Everyone had awesome evening gowns. There were navy, pink, and everything in between. And of course, they were all sparkly and glittery! It was the first time in MAOT history that the current queen held the title for three years. Yep, she was crowned when she was thirteen, one week later she turned fourteen and today is her birthday-Happy Birthday Savvy Shields! Even though the pageant was cool, my favorite part of the evening was the visitation after where you got to hang out (and get TONS of pictures taken) with all of the contestants and their friends and family. Many congratulations were said and many gifts were given. I talked with Mackenzie Bryant, my sister, and several others. At the visitation, I also saw my awesome ballet teacher, Mrs. Jenny. Well, it's late and tomorrow begins early as the breakfast closes in the hotel at nine-thirty. Tomorrow is the second night of prelims before the crowning on Saturday! I honestly can't wait to see everything tomorrow. Again, good luck to all of the contestants. Especially my favorites-Bailey Craig, Mackenzie Bryant, Rachel Harless, Madison Watkins, Raygan Sylvester, Mary Scarlett Sherwood, and Caitlyn Cook!

Wednesday, June 30, 2010

Tiaras and Dum-Dum suckers

"And that, Marjorie, just so you will know-and so your children will someday know- is the night the lights went out in Georgia!" - Julia Sugerbaker (Dixie Carter)

Today was arrival here at MAOT, and all of the contestants looked stunning! The Diamond State Princesses were crowned at arrival this morning. The DSP's learn routines, and go onstage with their associated MAOT contestant for evening gown during this week. This afternoon and tomorrow morning is interview for all of the lovely teens. Good luck to my personal favorite, Miss Conway's Outstanding Teen (and my very own sister and best friend) for tomorrow and the rest of the pageant. You wouldn't believe how much work goes on behind the scenes at a pageant. And I'm not talking about hair and make-up. I'm talking gifts, pajama parties, ice cream socials, finding time to eat, preparing for interview, rehearsals, and keeping cool during it all. Special thank-you/shout out to all of the loving and time spending and helping mamma's! You keep the wheel's spinning. And a shout out to all the sucker-stealing-behind-your-back-and-gift-bag-stuffing-sisters (and brothers) should not be forgotten! Well I must give one final good luck to all the competing MAOT girls. They're all awesome.

Tuesday, June 29, 2010

Masquerade

"Man is least himself when he talks in his own person. Give him a mask, and he will tell you the truth."-Oscar Wilde

Slip on your shades
Put on the mask
Pull up the hood
Gloss your lips
Pocket litter, the fake ID
Slip on your heels
Pocket the Protein Bar
Clasp the necklace on tight
Put on the masquerade
You're hitting the town tonight
Not to be recognized
Feel free to be yourself
And live your life

Do you believe in Magic?

"Silence makes the real conversations between friends. Not the saying, but the never needing to say that counts."-Margaret Lee Runbeck

I believe in silence. I believe that silence is golden. Just to listen to nothing in this world. It's the times at midnight when there's nothing to hear except for the crickets outside that wish could last forever. There is too much talking and rambling for many to appreciate the gift of silence, but I cherish it. I cherish every moment where I can't hear the TV or my brother talking, or my sister arguing, or my parents planning, or even when my iPod isn't playing. Silence speaks just as much, if not louder, than verbal words. So take some time and listen to the silence around you and figure out what it means. Listen to the silent moments between you and your friend and know that they like you without words being spoken. You don't have to impress them, they like you for who you are. Listen to the silence and discover a whole different world than the one you thought you knew. I believe in silence, what do you believe in?

Sunday, June 27, 2010

Home

"Reason to smile: Every seven minutes of every day someone in an aerobics class pulls a hamstring."-Author Unknown

So, as it goes, I live in a two story house. My two story house makes a lot of noise. ALL of the time. The air conditioner is loud and the floor squeaks and the walls pop. Today, I've been noticing that the house is making a weird sound. I thought to myself, is everything starting to boil and we're all gonna burn up and die?! But no, today is just one of those utterly random days where absolutely nothing makes sense and it's all the more hilarious because of that. Actually, that's the only crazy thing I've thought today, so maybe things aren't so wacky after all.

Saturday, June 26, 2010

Summer

"In a Wonderland they lie, dreaming as the days go by, dreaming as the summers die: Ever drifting down the stream-lingering in the golden gleam-Life, what is it but a dream?"-Lewis Carroll

It has come to that time in summer where time flies and the days run together. It takes considerable effort to determine what day it is. Generally, all the days are the same. Wake up, do nothing, go to bed, repeat. There's the occasional shocker or shopping trip involved, but as of now all that there is happens to be excitement for the future and the crickets buzzing out the window. Everyday that passes without something being accomplished makes me wish more and more that I could spend every single day of summer vacation doing something worthwhile and exciting. Sadly, that is where I come to an end. I have no clue as to what 'worthwhile' things I could possibly do, so I sit here bored-wishing, hoping, dreaming...

Crayons, Mood Rings, and K Cars

"I just wasted ten seconds of your life."-Relient K (Crayons can melt on us for all I care)

Well, there's this little band from Ohio. They're called Relient K. They sing about school dances, the 80s, college, Nancy Drew, the band Jefferson Airplane, gibberish, horses, their girlfriends' ex-boyfriends, vinyl, Five Iron Frenzy, and even Maybeline make-up. The lead singer is Matt Theissen, the guitarist is Matt Hoopes, John Warne plays bass, Ethan Luck is on drums, and concluding the band is Jon Schneck who plays guitar, bells, and the banjo. Their sense of humor is found in no other band's music. Although many of their songs are humorous, there are some that are rather deep such as "Hope for Every Fallen Man" which starts out with "As you push it up through the soil, I'll shake your filthy hand." Relient K is a unique band and they're worth checking out. Although, it is my sole opinion that their song "Crayons can melt on us for all I care" (which everyone should listen to) is slightly overpriced on itunes, what with it being a dollar and twenty-nine cents (I think).

Thursday, June 24, 2010

Dazzle and Stretch

"I like shiny. It makes the world go round." -My Mom

Ahhh, the smell of half a dozen cans of hairspray, makeup, and straightening irons. The frenzy of dress rehearsal. There's no time to worry about such miniscule things as eating. There's only ten minutes to get pink tights, a leotard, the swishy white, and all around perfect tutu, and pointe shoes on. Hair must be pulled back into a perfect bun and all fly-aways must be sprayed, pinned, and clipped into place. Who could think of eating at a time like this? All anyone cares about is making it onstage on time and whether or not there is lipstick on their teeth. A quick gulp of water backstage before the big entrance. Return to the dressing room to prepare for the next number. Everyone's feet are aching more than humanly possible. Glitter and sweat stain everything. And I do mean EVERYTHING. By the time rehearsal is over, all anyone wants is a shower and something to drink. How on earth can one find beauty and solace and happiness in such a miserable thing as this? Honestly, I don't know, but I do know that I can't live without it.

Through a different Eye

"Atticus was right. You never really know a man until you stand in his shoes and walk around in them." Harper Lee

I don't really know why, but I rearranged some furniture in my bedroom today. I moved my bed and a small bookcase and a lamp. A few other things got moved along the way, but I just don't understand why I did it. Or why I chose to do it alone for that matter. Tomorrow, I'm going to wake up sore and I'll be even more confused as to why I spent my day reorganizing my things. It seems pretty pointless, but I guess that's better than lying on the floor spending all my time on the computer. I actually feel as if I accomplished something today. As long as I'm happy, I'm not going to question myself too much. I'll only end up more puzzled. So without further adieu, I'll get back to rearranging my life.

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

The Hospital Room

"You Know how when we were kids, there were all those cool prizes at the bottom of cereal boxes?"-Shawn Spencer (James Roday)

In her perfect blue eyes he stares
Throughout the room the nervous air spreads
Upon his tongue stands 'I love you'
On her face, a small smile, she knows
Among the many, he fumbles too
Through the window, now, their eyes meet one final time
Despite his efforts, Juliet stands alone, confused

Well Said

"To all the secret writers, late-night painters, would-be singers, lapsed and sacred artists of every stripe, dig out your paintbrush, or your flute, or your dancing shoes. Pull out your camera, or your computer, or your pottery wheel. Today, tonight, after the kids are in bed, or when your homework is done, or instead of one more video game or magazine, create something, anything. Pick up a needle and thread, and stitch together something particular and honest and beautiful, because we need it, I need it. Thank you, and keep going." -Shauna Niequist

Everyone needs some creativity. So go into the world and and add your touch. Because we're all a little broken inside, and art and dance and words can heal us. So, thank you to all the creative people here in this world. You are changing it for the better.

Monday, June 21, 2010

Running

"Sometimes people run... to see if you'll come after them."-Ally Carter

She was long gone before anyone even noticed. Her codename was the peacock. Her cover was a debutante-the daughter of the man running for President. But in reality, she was a chameleon, too. She hated being seen and looked at. With the wig and glasses she had looked ordinary and normal, though everyone knew she was hardly that. Maybe she chose to run partly because no one ever told her she was special, smart. But it didn't matter, because only three people in her life knew not to judge a girl by her cover. The days without her seemed infinitely longer. But finally it dawned on the three friends. She wasn't in Switzerland. She wasn't amateur enough to use a passport. She had two disguises, and she had used at least one. They knew exactly where she was. The only thing left to do was sneak out and bring their sister home. When they found her, all she uttered was, "You're late."

Sunday, June 20, 2010

Your Halo is Slipping

"Well, the guy told me my hair was like a flock of goats, all right? I mean, how can a girl not be dazzled by such poetic brilliance?"

Last night I was doing some reading and it just so happened to involve one of my all-time favorite literary characters, Katie Weldon. And right now, I'd like to introduce her to you. She has bright red hair and jade green eyes and is the type of character you consider your best friend. Her philosiphy is: God is weird and we are tweaked. If Katie thinks that something happened because of God, then she calls it a God-thing. She even has a version for another character, Todd -yeah, it,s a Todd-thing. (Wondering who Todd is? No worries, I can guarantee I'll spend plenty of time talking about him later!) She's hilarious, outgoing, and likes to do things on a whim. Katie even bought popcorn from a garage sale once. Although, now that I think about it, the popcorn caught on fire and ruined the microwave it was in. She doused the fire with strawberry milkshake. Hey, at least it took care of the flames!

Saturday, June 19, 2010

With the Guys

"We love the things we love for what they are."

There is no better way to spend a Friday night than eating Chinese food and watching The Spy Next Door and Avatar with my two favorite guys in the world-my dad and my brother. There were some pretty funny moments in Spy Next Door. And let me just say-the kid that played the youngest daughter is the cutest little girl I've ever seen! Avatar was good. It's not my favorite movie. From what I'd heard, it was supposed to be amazing, but for me, it didn't live up to my expectations. Actually, neither was my favorite movie, but I definitely liked them both.

Mommy

"Children and mothers never truly part-Bound in the beating of each other's heart."

This weekend my mom isn't here. It makes me sad that I can't run downstairs and hug her goodnight. So I will do it in spirit. I love my mom; she's the greatest of them all. She cares for me and will do anything for me-she's proven that quite a lot. Today, I realized that I don't hug her enough. I just didn't want to let go. I definitely don't tell her that I love her enough. She's my hero. I can't wait to see her tomorrow night. Until then, I love you mommy.
With all my heart,
Laura

Friday, June 18, 2010

Ducky

"Why do you speak so loudly that I cannot hear what you say?"

People are interesting, weird, and crazy. Some prefer to be alone in silence while others prefer to talk you to death with their life story. Not a detail is left out. There is nothing wrong with either kind of person-the introvert or the extrovert. In my case, I tend to be more introverted than my siblings (whom I love). Even though extroverts can be talkative when you wish they weren't, there are those times that, by listening, you learn an interesting story. Of course, there's always the chance that the story will be boring, and within two sentences the iPod is playing on shuffle and the ear buds are blocking out the world so beautifully. Then, finally, one can think while the music makes a pleasant background for that thought.

Thursday, June 17, 2010

Saturday

"You can never get a cup of tea large enough or a book long enough to suit me."

The morning dawns a cloudy, winter day. Rush along now, in time to make ballet. Upon returning, collapse onto the sofa next to the fire. Pull out Sherlock Holmes or Pride and Prejudice or perhaps something more modern like I'd Tell You I Love You, but Then I'd Have to Kill You or a Christy Miller book. Shuffle into the kitchen and brew some Irish Breakfast Tea. Add in some milk and honey. Grab a warm blanket as the sky starts its downpour. Soon darkness and sleep creep up and end the perfect day.

The Forever Kind

"Piglet sidled up to Pooh.
'Pooh!' he whispered.
'Yes Piglet?'
'Nothing,' said Piglet, taking Pooh's paw. 'I just wanted to be sure of you.'"

The smiling faces, the laughing souls, the three stand isolated from the others. Each one slightly different. One redhead, two brunettes. Two with glasses, one without. Personal appearances don't separate these three from the others. It is their obvious joy in saying "Remember when..." and the seemingly hilarious (and no doubt slightly embarrassing) story that follows. Not one tells the tale, but they reminisce together.
The slumber parties and junk food and silly videos made fill their minds. As they laugh, their thoughts are taken to last September where pillow fights and ridiculous dancing lead to working together on school projects.
They stand up for each other, a bond like no other, a sisterhood unbreakable.

Call them whatever is preferred-forever friends, peculiar treasures, true friends, sisters for life, whatever the term, they are best friends forever.