Life as I know it

College... and All That

2011-08-10T17:14:00.003-05:00

Wow. It's been over two years since I updated this thing?? I guess time really does fly when you're having fun (or just really busy). Life has thrown so many things my way, and I've accomplished so many things. Here's a brief run down of the past two years:

I started college at Texas A&M as a BIMS major.
After a semester, I realized I wasn't a superhero and I changed my major to Animal Science.
I turned 19!
In the Spring of 2010, I took DASC 202 and it changed my life forever--now I'm a dairy girl.
I took the summer off to work and play - I had two jobs.
I started dating Jake :)
I spent every day with Bill Gray.
I gained 20+ pounds.
Fall of 2010 sucked...
I quit my second job.
I turned TWENTY.
I lost Bill on Thanksgiving Break.
I enjoyed Christmas with my family.
I attempted to lose weight... it worked for a while, then I decided I'd rather eat.
I took tumbling and LOVED it in the spring of 2011.
I went to the Southern Great Plains Dairy Consortium, and it reiterated my desire to go into the dairy industry after graduation.
I took 12 hours of summer classes... oh joy.
And now... here I am.

I never thought it would happen to me, but somewhere along the way my metabolism decided to revolt against me. From last summer to now I've gained 3 sizes. :-/ Major problem. I've never been heavy and I don't intend to be now, so I recently decided to try and put forth a little effort again. I lost 10 pounds last time I tried to lose weight, but this time I'm committed to 20+! I started the 30 Day Shred today and oh my Lord I thought I was going to die for part of it. How sad is that? But I'm committed. I have to get this freshman 15, sophomore 10 off!

Wish me luck!

WAY long overdue post

2009-09-04T09:21:00.004-05:00

Howdy!
Ok, so I'm aware I haven't updated my blog in MONTHS, but--there's just been so much going on I can't even begin to relay to you all of the events that have taken place. I guess I'll start with the most obvious. I moved away from home--and into an apartment of my very own in a little town on the Brazos. I really love living on my own. Mom and Dad have been so great, and so supportive. They both helped me move in, and mom even texturized and painted my living room for me (thank GOD I don't have to live in a cave anymore)!
I started a new job in the Jr. Surgery department of the animal hospital nearby--and it's seriously the coolest job EVER.
A few weeks after I moved, I was given the opportunity to go to Hawaii with my sister and her family (Thanks Jess--seriously the best vacation ever).
And this past week--SCHOOL started. Blah. It's been overwhelming at times, but I think I'm catching on and starting to really enjoy it.
I'll try to be better at posting, but for now... enjoy the pictures.

Before

After

Bedroom

At Work

Hawaii

A few of my girl friends

And.... TODAY :)

Goodbye FHS... Hello TAMU!!

2009-06-08T10:15:00.002-05:00

Well, I did it. I'm a high school graduate. Honestly, I couldn't be happier. I've had the worst case of Senioritis since probably Sophomore Year. It was a chronic condition. I'm glad I made it out alive.

In all seriousness though, the last 4 years have taught me so much. Because of everything that has happened during this time-good and bad-I am me. For that, I am thankful. High school wasn't an amazing experience that I wish I could relive (not yet, at least). It wasn't some big huge party, and I didn't do a whole heck of a lot outside of school and extracurricular events. I never got in trouble (which is good--but makes for some boring stories) and most of the school work wasn't very challenging for me.
I'm very ready to start my new life as an Aggie. I know the road will be long and difficult, but it's a good thing I've got my good walking shoes on (and 100 more in the closet).

Here are some pictures for your viewing pleasure:

T Minus 18 days

2009-05-17T20:06:00.003-05:00

Yep. That's right. Only 18 days until I'm a high school graduate. THANK GOD. I am so ready.

Anyway... I don't have much to say, but I thought I'd post a few pictures from last weekend. :) I love FAMILY.

PROM

2009-04-21T11:24:00.004-05:00

Well, despite all of the drama leading up to it, I actually had a good Senior Prom. I found a date thanks to the help of my sister, Jessica-and everything turned out the way I think it should have.

Jas--thanks so much for taking time to come home and make be BEE-YOO-TEA-FUL!

The Group :)

Me and Jared

Me and Max. I love you, girl. (P.S. Guess what?! It's almost graduation!!)

Jared (my prom date), me, and my friends Courtney and Alex went together to prom. Afterward, we went to Alex's lake house and played games and watched a movie. I even made homemade brownies! Around 6 am, we went to sleep.
The next morning, Courtney and I decided to be sweet and make breakfast for the boys... everything was going according to plan until the wrong burner was turned on-the burner Courtney had set the glass pyrex dish of brownies on, along with a wooden handled knife and a rubber top sealing it all in. We smelled smoke, quickly determined the source, and I sprung to the sink with the almost-flaming brownies. I asked Courtney to take the top off so I could dump the remnants of the brownies and knife into the sink and put water on them, but she couldn't get the stubborn rubber lid off. We went back and forth arguing about where to put the container. She said to put it in the sink, I argued for her to take the top off, and so on. Well, she finally made me set it in the sink--as our hands were on their dreadful fate, I said, "NO! I don't want it to---" Just as I said those final words, the bottom the dish hit the bottom of the sink and it EXPLODED into tiny peices. After the explosion, I said, "--do that". If the thousands of shards of glass wasn't enough... a lot of the glass happened to go down the garbage disposal-making it not work. We were frantic. When Alex woke up, he dug out all the glass he could. We should have taken pictures-it was A LOT.
This was a valuable lesson why you should never take glass out of one extreme temperature and place it in another.

It made for an interesting morning, but... at least we can laugh about it now-no one was hurt, and the garbage disposal is always fixable, right? :)

We did get the garbage disposal fixed, and Alex's parents weren't even upset. (Thank the LORD for sweet, understanding people!)

Yeah so...

2009-03-27T16:33:00.002-05:00

Since my last post was so pitiful, I decided to post about something that doesn't make me seem so much like a lame-o.
I have been so so so busy with scholarships, UIL writing, CDE contests, UIL Science this week that I felt like my head was going to EXPLODE into a million tiny pieces. Thankfully, it hasn't yet--but my week isn't even over. I have another CDE (livestock judging) contest tomorrow... Oh joy!

Anyway--on to the not-so-lame part.

This was my first year to do UIL Ready Writing. I didn't know how well I would do, but I surprised myself! I got 6th! I wish I would have done better, but I'm the only one from Tha' Field that placed in that event, so I'm pretty proud of myself.
And then yesterday, at Livestock Judging, I didn't do EXTREMELY well, but for not judging for a year--I didn't bomb it (so woo-hoo for me).
And TODAY, I competed in the UIL science contest and guess what!? I got second highest biology score, and my team got first place--which means we're going to REGIONALS! YAY!

I've never been to regionals before. It's supposed to be a lot of fun. So I've got to study, study, study germ layers, body systems, plant classifications, cell division, viruses, photosynthesis, the Krebs Cycle, Cellular Respiration, types of cells, glands, gametes, the Calvin Cycle, Molarity, Molality, the Elements, pressure, Gas Laws, Chemical Compounds, Newton's Laws, Pendelums, falling objects, friction, and much... MUCH more.

No Prom Date.

2009-03-19T22:01:00.002-05:00

I know this seems like an incredibly petty topic, but I am really beside myself on the issue. I've polled numerous friends on the "What's WRONG with me? Why don't I have a date?" survey and none have come up with a logical explanation. I don't mean to "toot my own horn" but, I'm not by any means ugly. I'm not dull or diseased. Why in the heck do I not have a date?! It's embarrassing. I know most of you would say, "just go alone" or "take a girl friend"... but I don't think you understand what that means in small-town high school prom speak. It means, "oh wow... what a loser?! She's alone/with a friend? Poor girl."

Anyway, I know it seems trivial, but it does upset me. I feel like a loser.

Just felt like blogging

2009-03-01T18:14:00.003-06:00

This weekend was crazy. Friday, all I did was work on my correspondence history lessons (only 2 more, thank you Lord!) and my stupid stupid stupid research paper for K-Dub. Don't get me wrong, I'm really not one to procrastinate on things this important, but when forced to do a critical analysis paper of Emily Dickinson I just had no choice.
Let me tell you a little about myself:

I read for pleasure, not to get some deeper meaning from it
I like music that makes me happy when I'm happy, and lets me sulk when I'm sad
I work from a plan and if something goes against the plan-I freak a little
I like to be painfully early to everything
I don't like girly guys (thank you Dad)

So... those things might explain some things. But, the one in particular that I'm talking about at the moment is the "read for pleasure" bullet. Emily Dickinson (I cringe at the just the name), in my opinion, is a horrible writer. I do not appreciate her poetry, probably because I'm not into reading about death, immortality, and weird symbolisms. I like to read because it entertains me. Emily Dickinson, and many of the "Great Poets" bore me. I don't like to read their poetry-at all. I know this sounds so juvenile and baby-ish, but my favorite poets are Dr. Seuss and Shel Silverstein. Ok, burn me at the stake if you would rather read about a carriage ride with Death than "One fish, Two fish, Red fish, Blue fish"... I mean seriously. Poetry that makes me giggle is SO much better than the other stuff.

A Great Weekend in Aggieland

2009-02-23T13:11:00.003-06:00

As you all know (I'm sure) I have the worst case of Senioritis ever. All I want to do is graduate and start my life as an Aggie. Thankfully this last weekend I got to spend time in the greatest city in the nation--College Station.
What makes CStat so great you might ask? Well, lucky for you I've comprised a list of all of the things that make it appealing to me:

COLLEGE STATION EQUALS:

No more high school. This means no more busy work, no UIL, no pointless classes.
Great friends. I will be surrounded by people I actually think are worth my time.
Independence. Not that I don't love my family-but it will be nice to be on my own (or partially, I guess).
Great memories.
Fightin' Texas Aggie traditions. Gig'em Aggies!
Great music. It seems all of my favorites play here.
New experiences. Rent? Classes with 500 students in them? Cooking for myself? No extra cash? These are all things that will be very very new to me.
New faces. New friends. No one I'm forced to like because there IS no one else.
College. This one speaks for itself. Once I attend the NSC (New Student Conference) on June 23rd, I'll officially be an Aggie... for life. :)

It was so good to spend the weekend with friends that I wish I saw more often. Next year, I'm excited that all of us get to live a lot closer to each other--I may even get sick of some ;)

Friday night a group of us went to see Cross Canadian Ragweed at Hurricane Harry's. I love Cross Canadian Ragweed. My only complaint was that they didn't play much of their old stuff (at the beginning at least) because they were promoting their new album. But either way, it was a blast. I'm glad I got to go and spend time with friends.

This weekend wasn't all about fun though. I got some business tended to as well. I met my roommate and went to look at the townhouse. I'm so excited because I think I found someone who is a great match for me! I was worried I would get a crappy roommate, but looks like I dodged a bullet on that one. I also tried to acquaint myself with campus more... no such luck on that one though. I'm still as confused as ever.

Sadly, I only got one picture. My little snap and shoot camera broke, so I had to take this one with my phone. I meant to get a picture of all of us but I didn't. Oh well. Next time.

Rant of the day

2009-02-17T15:30:00.004-06:00

Get ready. Sit tight. This is going to be a long rant.

Disclaimer: This post is not intended to offend any person or persons. The author of this blog is not a racist, nor supremacist in any other form.

So, I'm getting ready for college. As most of you know, filling out tons and tons of scholarship applications is the norm. I have spent countless hours writing various essays pertaining to "why I deserve" the scholarships, my career goals, and how I have made "a difference in my community". Honestly, I have a stash of essays that I usually just copy and paste from :) (so it's not that bad). I have grown accustom to filling out my full name, birth date, city, state, high school, expected college, high school graduation date, parents names, GPA, honors classes, high school counselor's information, SAT scores, and expected major...
BUT
I have not grown accustom, or happy with, a few questions on practically all scholarship applications. These questions include:

Family income, and
Ethnicity

Now, let me explain. I understand, and am grateful, that I have been very blessed with parents who are not financially hurting, but I'm not applying for grants, I'm applying for scholarships. There is a difference. I think that grants are a wonderful thing. I believe that everyone who wants to learn should be able to learn and earn a valuable education. Grants help make this possible for families who cannot afford to send their children to college, students who are on their own, and other various situations. I believe that grants are a good thing, however, scholarships are not grants. Scholarships, I believe, should be intended for those who have shown themselves to have academic success (note: this does not exclude those who qualify for grants). For this reason, I do not mind when scholarships ask for my SAT scores or GPA, my class rank or honors courses, my extracurricular or community involvement. This is the soul purpose of scholarships--to determine who deserves them based on academic and extra curricular excellence. What I do have an issue with is students not being awarded a scholarship because of family income.

Now, I'm not saying that I deserve every scholarship I apply for, BUT in at least one particular instance, I know that I was well-qualified for the award. This particular scholarship was related to my FFA career. As some of you know, throughout high school I have been very involved with my chapter, district, area, and state FFA Organization. I have served in elected positions all four years of my FFA career. I have participated in LDE (leadership career events), CDE (career development events), and other competitions throughout my four years. In which contests, I have competed at the district, area, and state levels. I have served as Chapter Reporter (sophomore), Secretary (junior), and President (senior). My junior year, I was the Sandyland District First Vice President and I worked very hard in planning our district activities and participating in district-led events. I scored well on my SAT, as well. My essay for the scholarship was edited by a member who sits on numerous scholarship boards and who was also an English teacher for many many years. I had three very good letters of recommendation, and I am 5th in my class. I don't mean to brag, but I was very qualified for the scholarship. When the names of the recipients were announced, and my name was not one of them, I asked a little birdie what held me back from receiving the scholarship, and do you know what the answer was?

My family's income.

Are you kidding me?! My parents have worked hard to provide for themselves and their children for years and have finally caught a little bit of a break. THAT was the reason I wasn't awarded the scholarship that I deserved? It just makes me very angry, and sad.

This is just an example of our nations new policies. Now, I do not intend to bash Obama. I am going to back him because he is our President. I believe that he deserves respect. When Bush was in office I didn't like to hear about all of the poor decisions he was making, and I do not intend to degrade Obama in any way. However, I do not agree with some of the policies under the Obama Administration. Obama said before he was elected to office that he wanted to "spread the wealth". Now, personally, I think that it would be great if everyone had everything that they needed; if there was no poverty, no crime, no hurt. Unfortunately, that is not the case. There are people in our nation who are suffering from just such things. I do feel for them, and I wish that there was something that could be done to help them get on their feet. Something that does not cost other hardworking, taxpaying individuals more of their hard earned money. The idea of taking from the "wealthy" and giving to the "poor" does NOT appeal to me. The "wealthy" aren't always lighting their cigarettes with $20 bills. Most of the individuals that the government deem as "wealthy" are just middle class, hard working, blue collar people. They have worked very hard to get where they are. And... I'm going to leave it at that. They worked HARD.

Now, how that relates to my scholarship dilemma. I have worked very hard throughout my entire school career. I have busted my butt to make it to the top of my class, stayed up countless hours studying, and have stayed at home when I could have gone out because I needed to get ahead on my school work. I firmly believe that I deserve some sort of reward for my actions. I didn't work hard all of these years so I could struggle my way through college. I worked hard so I could get in to the school of my choice (which I have) AND so that it would be a little easier on my mom and dad, who have provided me with everything that I have. I don't find it fair that I "do no qualify" for scholarships because of income. I deserve the same consideration as any one else, regardless of money.

Now, on to ethnicity...

My reason for not liking this question is because I honestly try to see everyone as equal. I try very hard not to see in colors, and if colleges, jobs, and schools do not discriminate against any race, then it shouldn't even be an issue. I do not believe that it's fair for certain races to have their own clubs, scholarships, etc. If our nation stands on the principle that "all men are created equal", then as Americans we should exercise that right. If equality is really what we want, I believe that we should stop giving certain people the edge over others just because of race. This principle even is true for gender. Many times women are given the edge over men because of their sex. I am not in any way putting down civil or women's rights, but I do believe that whoever the most qualified is, should be awarded. Race and gender should have NOTHING to do with who deserves scholarships, jobs, or positions in government.

Anyway, this post was not intended to step on any one's toes. I simply wanted to voice my opinions. I do not believe that being "wealthy" and a "minority" should have anything to do with the scholarship process. Questions regarding such should not even be included on the application. If this were the case, scholarships would truly be SCHOLARSHIPS.

Blessed

2009-02-15T17:04:00.002-06:00

The past few weeks have been fairly uneventful, but they have been good. Thankfully, we were blessed with lots of pretty warm days. I am so ready for spring!! I have a lot of things I need to get ready for: Research Paper due in about a week and a half (haven't even started), I need to find a prom dress (and prom DATE), I need to finish my correspondence history lessons, etc. There is a long list of things that I need to get done... but, I haven't yet. Don't worry though-I will.

This weekend was good. Very relaxing. Friday, I hung out at home. It was nice to relax. Sometimes I feel like such a loser because I hardly ever go out and do things, but I'm happy-that's all that matters right? And, uh, I'm about to start college. I'll have plenty of time away from the 'rents and with my friends then.
Yesterday I did some things, watched a movie, and hung out with one of my friends. It was fun. :)

So... I'm sure this post totally bored you, but nothing very eventful has happened. I'll let you know when it does though. ;)

Time for an update

2009-01-27T11:32:00.003-06:00

So, I suppose it's time for an update. I just haven't felt much like blogging lately. I've had quite a bit going on. This past weekend, I drove to Jessica's to help her with Sweet Christopher. I'm so glad I could help her out a bit and spend time with the new family. I got to Caca's house shortly after lunch on Friday, spent the night, and spent all day with her Saturday. Saturday morning was Christopher's first pediatrician's appointment and everything looked great! (Well, except for the fact that Caca was a complete lunatic-which is ok... considering the recent trauma!) It was funny though... Ask me, and I'll tell you the story later-or better yet-have her do it. It's better that way.

But anyway-when we got home from his appointment, Jessica was tired and wanted a nap, so I took Christpher so she could get her rest. This little boy wanted a nap too, so I layed down with him and he slept on my chest for a little over 2 hours. :) It was great bonding time-and helped the new mommy catch up on some much needed rest.

Here are some pictures from the weekend (excuse the poor quality-they were taken with my cell phone).

An extra helping of Blog Soup

2009-01-11T16:43:00.005-06:00

So... a lot has been going on around here.

Topic #1. Getting toned with Nintendo.

First of all... let me sing Nintendo's praises for a minute. I have never been much into video games, but I got a Wii for Christmas and I love having it! It's nice to spend time with mom and dad doing something different for a change. Last week, I bought Wii Fit, and let me just tell you-this thing will work you! It's like having your own personal trainer in your living room-but the beauty of it is... it's super fun! So this week, I spent time hula hooping, going to step class, doing yoga, and working on centering my balance (I've already noticed some new ab muscles...). It keeps track of your BMI, weight, and helps you set goals for yourself. Btw-it even reminded me that mom's birthday is tomorrow... it asked me what I got her (funny, eh?).

Topic #2. Business ventures.

I think I want to start baking for some extra cash. Dad's been trying to get me to start my own business because I love to bake so much, so I got to thinking-Why not?
I'm not exactly sure how to start it, though. I also plan on selling some of my photography (when my camera comes back from the shop, that is). On ebay people will pay big bucks for a pretty picture... and it's something I really enjoy doing.

And topic #3. New friends.

I think seniors all across the nation are getting restless right about now. It's the beginning of the second semester, and we are ready to be DONE with high school. On facebook, I joined a group for TAMU class of 2013... and I have met a lot of cool new people. I'm glad I'm not the only one who is tired of filling out paperwork, writing essays, and getting up early to waste a whole day at school. One of my new friends is a girl named Lindsay. She's also a Biomedical Science major and wants to be a vet-so we immediately hit it off. We plan on joining the Future Vet Student Organization in the fall together. We have a lot in common.
Then there's Lucas. He's going to TAMU to study Cell biology (which I thought about doing, but x-nayed it on the account that I didn't want to move to Georgia to work for the CDC). He's half Brazilian and really smart. Portuguese was his first language-which I think is pretty sweet. I made him tell me how to say, "you look like a monkey"... he wouldn't tell me how to say anything worse than that (which is probably good). :)

I am so ready to graduate!!! Less than 5 months!

I'm in love.

2009-01-04T22:12:00.002-06:00

It's true. Complete, utter, head-over-heels LOVE. I can't help it, and I can't hide it. I have come to terms with the fact that I might as well just embrace it. No one ever told me that I could fall in love with a fictional character-but I did. For those of you who don't know, Edward Cullen makes any normal man seem like a dud.
A few months ago, when all of this Twilight hoopla started, I was positive that I would never read a book about vampires. Seriously? I'm just not into that. Not at all, actually. I never liked Harry Potter, and honestly when I liked the Lord of the Rings... there was just something wrong with me. I don't like science fiction. I just don't. So when I heard of the book about Vampires that everyone was raving about, I had no intention of jumping on the bandwagon. I never liked this stuff before. Why should I force myself to read a book I knew I wouldn't enjoy.

WRONG.

I started reading Twilight the day before yesterday (yesterday doesn't even count because I was gone all day). So I've only had this book for two days. I've only picked it up to read three times, and I'm already on page 218. I can't put it down! Every time I do, I want to pick it back up again. I can easily picture myself as Bella (the girl who is telling the story). As Bella, I picture myself with Edward all day long. The feelings that she feels for him are so vivid in my imagination, and so easy to feel as I read.

I cannot rave about this book enough. I honestly think it's the most "attention-holding" book I've ever read. It's an easy read, and you don't have to think very hard into the book to understand what's going on. Anyone who enjoys thrilling stories should read this book. It's breath-taking.

BTW-Here is the love of my life:

Holiday in the Park

2009-01-01T15:18:00.002-06:00

Saturday, Marla and Peyton (aka, my future sister-in-law and only big brother) invited me to go to Holiday in the Park with them. Bryce (my little brother) tagged along and we had a great time! It was so nice and festive. The weather wasn't too cold, but it was fun to get to wear all of our "winter gear" and fit in. The park was not very crowded, so we also got to ride rides multiple times with little to no wait.

These guys are so very special to me. I thank God for such wonderful friends!

Me and Marla always have a blast together!

This is the little brother-Bryce... as you can see, he's not so little.

This is our Sibling Pile... in order from tallest to shortest, apparently.

Two of my VERY best friends.

A good time to Blog

2008-12-23T23:55:00.002-06:00

My room is clean, my bed is made, and I'm listening to some good 'ole Eli Young Band.

As I was cleaning my room today, I came about a card that one of my sister's gave me for my birthday. On it was written "If you can dream it, you can do it". I think so many times we forget about that. I remember my parents telling me from the time I was a little girl that I could "do anything I wanted to do" with my life. As a child, I took it at face value. "Ok, so I can do anything I want to do... I want to be famous." Now that I'm older, I cherish that knowledge. I can do anything that I want to do. I'm so excited to get to use that encouragement to become what I want to be. I am so blessed to come from a family that values education and self-worth. Because I have such a supportive family, I truly believe that I can (and will) do what I want to do with my life.

When I was younger, I used to loath working with my animals. I absolutely hated it. I showed because I liked showing... and actually more than showing, I liked winning (selfish, I know). But never-the-less, I worked with my goats and lambs months prior to showing. (Note: when I say months, I really mean month because... although we would get the animals months ahead of time, I procrastinated.) This year, though, I have taken a definite interest in my animals and I even like going out there to check on them (don't tell my dad). I like giving shots, worming, and doctoring them. Within the past few weeks, a lot of baby goats have been born. I haven't gotten to see a birth yet this year (which is something I took for granted when I was little... dad would always come get me from the house to see baby goats born), but I've gotten to doctor a bunch of "newly born" babies. These things make me more sure than ever that I want to be a veterinarian. I love livestock. I love the fact that by keeping them healthy, we stay healthy. That is my ultimate goal-I want to keep our animals healthy, so we stay healthy. I want to contribute to society in that way so that everyone can be confident that the foods they consume are safe to eat and so that the farmers that "grow" our food will feel confident that the product that they are producing is quality.

Anyway... just some of my thoughts. :)

4 DAYS

2008-12-21T13:22:00.001-06:00

ONLY 4 DAYS UNTIL CHRISTMAS!!!

WOOHOO!

Granny

2008-12-20T19:02:00.001-06:00

I don't really know why she's been weighing on my mind lately, but I miss her. She was a great woman, and loved me (and others) very much. I wish she was here to celebrate with us this season. This Christmas marks the ninth year.

Oh the irony...

2008-12-18T19:50:00.002-06:00

WARNING: This post will be a hodgepodge of different things.

Well, I got all of my Christmas shopping done, thankfully. This year I didn't have many people to buy for in my family, so it was nice to be able to buy my close friends gifts.

Christmas is only 6 days away, ya know?

Ok, I find this weird. A friend of mine (well... more of an aquaintance these days) that graduated last year is getting married. I thought it was weird enough that the love of my life (ok so, he wasn't-but I was in love with him when I was like 3) got married a few months ago. Am I really old enough to be having my friends get married? I don't like it. It's weird. I know another girl that I've grown up with who's 19 and she got married this summer. I want to experience an independent life before I get married. It just blows my mind that my friends are getting married. For real? Ugh. (I won't even go into all the specifics about the issue, but call me sometime and I'll fill ya in. It's an interesting situation to say the least).

Also-
Have you ever had something so ironic happen to you that it just made you laugh out loud? I just have to--HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA. Ok, I'm done.

Running out of time

2008-12-15T13:09:00.002-06:00

Yep. I'm running out of time.

I've got T minus EIGHT days before everyone's Christmas present must be WRAPPED-and I haven't even bought the first present! Ughh...

So, I'm making a list. Maybe that will help me get everything on time. We decided to draw names for Christmas amongst the sisters (and brother-in-laws) so I only have one gift to buy for that. I drew Jasmine and I already have in mind what I'm going to cook up for her... :)

Mom and Dad should be easy to. Well, mom will be. I'm not sure about Dad. I'm sure I can find something exciting for him... maybe.

Then I have to buy for my BFFs (or my "inner circle" as I like to call them). Maxine and Peyton.
Maxine... easy cheesy. Peyton? Not so much. What do you buy a guy?! Seriously. With girls, all you have to do is find something sparkly or just as amusing and you're doing great. With boys, it's just... ughh-BORING (no offense to any of the male species that may be reading this). I'm thinking... fishing supplies? A cap? Shoot. I don't know.

I'm also exchanging gifts with my friends Courtney and Marla... they should be a piece of cake, too.

And that's it! It doesn't seem like much, but I'm overwhelmed with all of it! I have to get this done-and quick!

Also, I HATE shopping with others. Let that be know. As I have aged (yep... I'm getting old), I have realized that I like to do things on my own-without any help. I don't like others tagging along making judgments on gifts I buy for others. It annoys me. Apparently, Mom and Dad don't think it's smart for me to shop by myself-so... I still have one more year to do so. Maybe I'll survive.

2008-12-14T20:44:00.002-06:00

With the new year only a few weeks away, I have been thinking about my "New Year's Resolutions". Last year, I didn't make any. I decided that this year I would start early (er, well... earlier). Thinking about your own life and the changes you need to make is hard! Does anyone else think so? If you read my earlier post, you know that I am my biggest critic-but that still doesn't make it easy to determine my problems and make a commitment to FIX them. But, never-the-less, I have come up with a few things that I will do differently next year.

Next year, I will:

Spend more time reading the Bible
Go Green(ish). Don't get overly excited Jodi... but I do plan on not hitting the environment quite AS hard. I plan on doing simple things, such as not overusing paper products when unnecessary, turning off lights and unplugging appliances when they aren't in use, etc.
Eat in more than eating out. This will not only help me stay healthy, but also will help me save cash (I know I'll need it come August).

Anyway, those are the things I've thought of so far. I may add more, later. :)

Stolen from Jodi

2008-12-12T15:35:00.002-06:00

1. I'm incredibly indecisive... yet, I know what I like... so I shouldn't be.

2. I wish I could make every stray a pet.

3. When I'm upset I'm a compulsive cleaner and/or baker.

4. In a short eight months I'll move to a new, exciting town.

5. I'm a complete over-analyzer.

6. I hate breaking traditions.

7. I've flown in an airplane, but never landed in one. :)

8. I love my beautiful mutt-Teddy. Everyone else seems to think she's a horrible dog, but she makes me happy-and suits me just fine.

9. I have a very small foot. I can wear size 2.5 in kids, but if I'm lucky, a 5 in women's will fit (just very loosely).

10. I wish I could be a surgeon, but I find it unrealistic to balance a career of such magnitude with a close family.

11. I used to twirl. One baton, Two baton, Fire baton.

12. I want to be on my own-so bad! Not so I can "break rules", but so I can be more independent.

13. I can't even remember when I first learned how to give shots to animals-I feel like I've always known how.

14. I grew up on a Boer Goat farm.

15. I used to have a sweet, sweet "spotty dog" named Pepper. He had beautiful blue eyes and he lived a great 15 years.

16. I'm afraid of failure, but not because of anyone but myself. I'm my biggest critic.

17. I can come off conceited, but I really don't mean anything by it.

18. None of my best friends live within 50 miles of me.

19. I like my Texas accent-but I speak with correct grammar (most of the time, anyway).

20. I'm not a big fan of composition and rhetoric, but I finished the class with a perfect score-imagine that.

21. I like kitchen appliances.

22. I have a phobia of mice. A real, honest to God, phobia.

23. I wish I could work at a zoo and make a reasonable living.

24. I like to try new things.

25. I have palpated a cow-and thought it was fun. Sorry if you find it gross, but I see it making me $100,000 a year when I finish Vet School.

26. In my entire school career, Steve Black, Deborah Hamilton, and Keith Whitaker have made the largest impact on me.

27. Chinese and Japanese food is my favorite.

28. I don't believe I could ever love a "non-Ag". Call me closed-minded... but we Aggies share a special bond. I may prove myself wrong one day, we'll see.

29. I truly believe Maxine is my other half. She's the best friend I've ever had-and probably ever will have.

30. I like guys with short hair. Call me traditional.

31. I can't separate eggs without getting a little yellow in with the whites.

32. I am very, VERY particular.

33. I don't like to sleep past 9... but I do anyway.

34. I like symmetry.

35. I like odd numbers.

36. 30% of my closet is maroon-no exaggeration.

37. I love hunting-but I'm particular about what I shoot.

38. I like to be alone when I don't want to be entertained.

39. I can fold my tongue in half (from front to back) without using my teeth.

40. I may be overly-nice (especially when pulling through drive-through windows or at restaurants).

41. My parents stutter when saying my name. "Jas-. Jes-. Jor-. Kid! Hey, you... come here".

42. When I get angry... It's not a pretty sight. I should work on it.

43. I hate pork-except bacon.

44. I love Taco Bell... "Gross", I know. I've heard it all before.

45. I'm a champ in MadGab. Just ask my family. :)

46. Christmas is by FAR my favorite holiday.

47. My dogs sleep in the bed with me.

48. I fall asleep on my tummy.

49. I like to take bubble baths and listen to music.

50. I rarely ever feel bad.

51. I feel like I learn a lot of unnecessary things in school.

52. I wish I was a year older for the sole fact that I would be Fightin' Texas Aggie Class of 2012-the best year ever.

53. I like cookbooks.

54. I'm a Grey's Anatomy addict.

55. I'm a Michael Jackson fan. Yes, I know. He's creepy-but I like his music.

56. I like making people smile.

57. My middle name is Marie and when I was little, I used to pronounce my name "Jaelan Uhree". I also didn't want to say "open". I could-I just didn't want to. I said, "ruh-ruh" (with a slight "t" sound on the ends of the h's).

58. I'm not racist, but I do believe that if other ethnic groups can have their own organizations and be proud of them-White people should be able to as well.

59. You get me on a roll and I can talk forever.

60. I like kids... but only if they don't talk. :) Most annoy me.

61. I love my "tank"-my Saturn Vue.

62. I like to wash clothes... just not fold them.

63. Although Thanksgiving is known for "turkey", our staple food is Mom's dressing.

64. I'm a fan of straight lines.

65. My favorite colors are: Green, Pink, and Maroon.

66. I like to sing, very loudly, in my car.

67. I'm German and Cherokee... or at least that's why my research has told me.

68. Some people think I'm brainwashed, but my favorite place to be in the whole world is in College Station. Maybe I'll get sick of it within the next 7 years, but right now, it really intrigues me.

69. I like filling out personal paperwork.

70. I like oranges. I dislike bananas.

71. Back in the day, I achieved the highest medal possible in the State Solo Twirling competition.

72. My favorite restaurant is Kobe Steaks.

73. On pretty days, I sometimes lay on our fence and watch the clouds.

74. My favorite cologne is "Fierce" by Abercrombie and Fitch... Mmmm just can't resist. I like good smelling guys. My sister, Jordan, and I used to sniff one of our karate instructors because he smelled so good all of the time. He caught on and made fun of us.

75. I dislike unintelligent people.

76. I'm a fan of Tupac.. Weird? Yes. Thanks Jodi. :)

77. I once ran into a soccer field in my car... Down a hill, and into a soccer field. There were Mexicans playing on it at the time. They stopped, Stared, and I drove back up the hill to enjoy the rest of my DQ Blizzard. Eating and Driving should be outlawed.

78. Fall is my favorite season.

79. I hate cigarette smoke. I will NEVER smoke.

80. Today I played Bingo at the local nursing home with some very nice old men. I hope I'm never in the situation that they are in. It makes me sad. I want to bust them out and take them home.

81. I'm paranoid at times.

82. I love looking at the stars.

83. I am possibly the most competitive girl you have ever met... Unless you've met my sister, Jordan. Then it's a toss up.

84. I like sparkly stuff... especially if my sister, Jasmine, makes it.

85. My dad hates being tickled and sometimes I sit by him on the couch just to annoy him with it.

86. I like photoshop.

87. I'm a Biomedical Science major. Yes, some people do call me crazy.

88. Tea is my favorite drink.

89. I'm a T-shirt and blue jean fan.

90. If I ever have a son, I'd like to name him Russell Jackson (after my dad, and my favorite song).

91. My favorite movies are: Walk the Line, Guys and Dolls, Wanted, Meet me in St. Louis, and It's a Wonderful Life.

92. I think dogs understand what we say to them.

93. I have a puke-green colored bathtub, toilet, and sink. That is soon changing (hopefully). Thank you horrible 70s decorating fad!

94. I once took a trip to the emergency room from an accident while trying to make brownies... out of a pouch.

95. Biology fascinates me.

96. I'm addicted to the SIMS.

97. Believe it or not, I've loosened up-A LOT.

98. Next semester, I'll be done for the day at 10:20.

99. I like to hold baby goats and have them suck on my finger.

100. I'm not a happy person in the morning.

101. I'm the youngest of 4 girls. My big sisters amaze me completely.

Jumping out of a Perfectly Good Airplane

2008-12-07T11:21:00.008-06:00

Skydiving has always been something I've wanted to do. About 5 years ago, I informed my dad that he was jumping with me on my 18th birthday! At the time he agreed, but I never thought he (or I) would actually go through with it. But Friday, at approximately 4:30, we did it!

We arrived in Lexington at about 3 o'clock ready to jump! On the Internet, the place we signed up to jump looked very legitimate... when we got there, we were a bit apprehensive-there were LLAMAS, CHICKENS, DONKEYS, and GINNEYS roaming around freely. It was a big odd, but thankfully, it was a great experience. The guys were very personable and made the whole ordeal lots of fun.

The plane was small, and there was only one jumper so we had to decide which one of us wanted to go first. When he asked, I decided I would go first... that way, I wouldn't chicken out. Gary (the jumper) suited me up and off we went!

The plane was sooo cramped! I was with 4 grown men, so I can't imagine how 5 grown men (my dad) felt!

I had never been in an airplane, and just the trip up 11,000 feet was amazing to me. I love airplanes now (although... I've never actually landed in one). I was enjoying the view, and at this point, I felt more calm than I was on the ground-there was no turning back now! At 11,000 feet, the videographer went out of the plane first. (He hung on to the wing!?) I have NO idea how he does it because as soon as I put my first leg out of the door it flew back and hit the side of the plane-the wind was soooo strong! When I finally got my feet planted on the platform outside of the plane, Gary counted "One, two, three!" and on three we tumbled out of the plane. We did a few somersaults, and then stabilized in our free fall. It was amazing! I didn't notice the cold, but I did notice that my ears were hurting, very badly. It wasn't from the cold, it was from the pressure-but I was still giggling and having a great time. When he pulled the chute, it was so peaceful. He even let me spin around and around-it was so much fun!

Skydiving was probably the most exciting thing I've ever done. Anyone who likes a thrill should do it!

I wish I could figure out how to save the DVD on my computer... but I can't figure it out. Jessica, maybe you can help with that?

GIMP (aka Free Photoshop)

2008-11-29T21:52:00.003-06:00

Today was our family Thanksgiving. Unfortunately, the sister who takes all the pictures at our family gatherings is "over-run" with pictures from her photography business, so she didn't take any pictures of Thanksgiving.

BUT-

In August, she took Part I of my senior portraits. :) They turned out great! Today, as she was working on her photography, I decided to see if I could "spruce up" any of the pictures she took of me... so, Pressly (my computer genius brother-in-law) emailed me a link to the site I could download this great "photoshop-like" product-it's called GIMP2. I downloaded it and was astonished at how much like photoshop it was.

Here are some of the pictures that messed a little bit with (keep in mind... most of it is Jessica's photography; she's great-really. I just had fun playing with effects and the "cloning" tool):

2008-11-23T12:00:00.003-06:00

It was a fun weekend in College Station. I went to the bonfire and had a great time hanging out with good friends-and even made a few new ones! :)

The Last Corps Trip

It was Judgment Day in Aggieland
And tenseness filled the air;
All knew there was a trip at hand,
But not a soul knew where.

Assembled on the drill field
Was the world-renowned Twelfth Man,
The entire fighting Aggie team
And the famous Aggie Band.

And out in front with Royal Guard
The reviewing party stood;
St. Peter and his angel staff
Were choosing bad from good.

First he surveyed the Aggie team
And in terms of an angel swore,
"By Jove, I do believe I've seen
This gallant group before.

I've seen them play since way back when,
And they've always had the grit;
I've seen 'em lose and I've seen 'em win
But I've never seen 'em quit.

No need for us to tarry here
Deciding upon their fates;
Tis plain as the halo on my head
That they've opened Heaven's gates."

And when the Twelfth Man heard this,
They let out a mighty yell
That echoed clear to Heaven
And shook the gates of Hell.

"And what group is this upon the side,"
St. Peter asked his aide,
"That swelled as if to burst with pride
When we our judgment made?"

"Why, sir, that's the Cadet Corps
That's known both far and wide
For backing up their fighting team
Whether they won lost or tied."

"Well, then," said St. Peter,
"It's very plain to me
That within the realms of Heaven
They should spend eternity.

And have the Texas Aggie Band
At once commence to play
For their fates too we must decide
Upon this crucial day."

And the drum major so hearing
Slowly raised his hand
And said, "Boys, let's play The Spirit
For the last time in Aggieland."

And the band poured forth the anthem,
In notes both bright and clear
And ten thousand Aggie voices
Sang the song they hold so dear.

And when the band had finished,
St. Peter wiped his eyes
And said, "It's not so hard to see
They're meant for Paradise."

And the colonel of the Cadet Corps said
As he stiffly took his stand,
"It's just another Corps Trip, boys,
We'll march in behind the band."

Adult?!

2008-11-18T13:44:00.004-06:00

As some of you may know, Friday November 14th was my birthday. I'm 18-legally an adult. Gee, that doesn't seem right.

But anyway-

I was a little bummed out Friday because my friends bailed on my "birthday" plans. We were going to go to Palestine and go bowling-but I opted to cancel when half of the people bailed on me. So needless to say, I was preparing myself for the worst birthday ever. But what I thought would be the worst birthday ever actually turned into a pretty great one!

As I was "playing" with my new "toy" from the parents, I was surprised by my sister Jasmine and nephew Aaron. They had come to see me for my birthday! I was so glad they were here-and Jodi came over, too. We had a "mini" birthday party, just the 6 of us. It was great. I loved my pretty pink bouquet-the flowers smelled great and they were my favorite color! It was just nice to know that I wasn't completely forgotten on my birthday and it reminded me that my closest friends really are my family-especially my sisters. I'm not sure what I would do without each of them (sorry you couldn't make it Caca, I know you wanted to).

So yesterday, I sported my new Black cardigan from Caca, and today I carried the awesome new bag that Jodi got me. :)

And this week, I've been doing homework on my brand new pink Dell Inspiron 1525 laptop! I love it! (Thanks Mom and Dad! You know me all too well!)

So my birthday wasn't what I expected, but thankfully, it turned out better! :)

P.S. I also got my acceptance from TAMU. College Station-here I come!

The Last Rally

2008-11-09T10:00:00.007-06:00

Friday was my last pep rally, and last high school football game.

I don't really think many of us were sad to see it go. I can speak for myself when I say that I am ready to experience new things. Friday's pep rally was my 40th pep rally in high school. Am I aloud to say that it gets really boring? I need a change-and midnight yell is a great substitute for pep rallies! :)

We did have fun though. All the seniors went out onto the basketball court and took pictures while our senior song played (This is the Time of My Life).

My first best friends in elementary school

Julia, Clay and I had a lot of fun in elementary school. I vividly remember once incidence in Kindergarten in which we dug a hole in Clay's yard, filled it with water, and covered it in cardboard to make a "boobie-trap". There was a stray dog that kept coming up to Clay's house and scared his little sister... we thought our trap would take care of the problem.

The Senior Twirlers

We have had some fun times twirling. It has been such a blessing to be with these girls through good times and bad. We've endure many tears, laughed at many jokes, and even helped each other get out of a little trouble on occasion.

A&M Bound

Candice and I couldn't be happier with our "higher-education" school of choice! I sure hope College Station is ready for us!

My Hunting Buddy

Jeff and I have always been friends. I remember in first grade, he used to tell me tales of "bear hunting" and trips to Africa. Now being a little older, we are able to hunt together-and it's so much fun!

Sad

2008-11-04T22:30:00.003-06:00

Let me preface this by saying-my opinion is NOT a matter of race-it's a matter of policy.

My heart aches for my country. I feel that we have made the worst decision possible. I don't agree with "spreading the wealth" and it makes me angry. What incentive do we have as American's to be better if a doctor is going to make as much money as a teacher?

J and I have decided to work at McDonald's for the rest of our lives and just reap in the "wealth" spread from other people... I bet I could get a nice Mercedes out of it, at least.

Not much to blog about

2008-11-03T13:24:00.003-06:00

For the past week or more there hasn't been anything overly exciting. This past weekend was opening weekend of Deer Season, and guess where I was?!

Yeah, on a band trip. I'm not very happy about that.

So while ALL of my friends and some of my family (I say all of my friends, but I really mean just like one) were sitting in a deer stand, I was waiting for the buses to arrive at the band hall...

Let me just tell you!

We were supposed to be AT THE BAND HALL at 9:30 so we could PULL OUT by 10 o'clock... We didn't pull out until ELEVEN THIRTY! I was HIGHLY upset. I could have already been off of the deer stand with my deer quartered and in the freezer by that time! Now, some of you may not know this, but... I'm not very happy when people intrude on my huntin' time. (My future husband will loves this about me, I'm sure... I won't get mad if he's gone for weeks at a time hunting because I will be too)

Anyway... We left, and marched (yippy!) BTW-We got 8th out of 8.

BUT today... I'm going hunting thanks to my great friend Jeff... maybe I'll have a more exciting post at about 8:00 tonight. :)

A tribute to the 3...

2008-10-25T19:52:00.003-05:00

Friday night all of my sisters came home! It was so nice to have them rooting me on at the football game, and it was a great chance to spend time with them! We don't get together as often as we should. Being with them always brightens my day! I am so blessed to call Jasmine, Jessica, and Jordan my big sisters.

Jas: You are so patient, and are always willing to do things for others-something I need to take a lesson in. Thanks for setting an example.

Caca: You can make anyone laugh; and even though you lose your filter 99.9% of the time-thanks for all the chuckles. Laughter is the best medicine!

Jodi: I'm so glad that we've gotten closer in the past few months since you've been back. You are a constant reminder to stay open-minded and to try to do the "right" thing.

I love you three so very much! I couldn't imagine life without one of you. Thanks for being the greatest big sisters in the WORLD! :)

3 More Weeks....

2008-10-23T22:39:00.003-05:00

Only 3 more. THREE! YAY!

In 3 weeks-I will officially not be a twirler any longer. And in 10 weeks I'll no longer be a member of the "Grand Band from Eagle Land" YAY!

It feels good to be so close. I hate that I hate this-but the people involved in band make it impossible to enjoy the last few weeks. I am so ready!

First Admissions Essay-FINISHED

2008-10-20T17:37:00.002-05:00

Thank goodness! I cannot tell all of you how long I worked on this stupid, generic essay... "Tell about a person who has made an impact on your life and how and why they are important to you."

UGH!
There are so many people who have taught me important lessons and who are important to me, but my sisters probably rank the highest. I pondered over my topic for literally-WEEKS. Why is TAMU so complicated, I'm in the top 10%. Couldn't they just let me skip the essay portion? (NOPE!)

So, I decided to write about how my sister, Jessica, has endured numerous hardships throughout her young adult life and how gracefully she has handled herself. (Even though, all of my sisters have taught me equally as many and important lessons-thanks sisters!). The essay was about "making lemonade" from "sour lemons". I think it's pretty clever-we'll see what Texas A&M has to say about it.

A Bittersweet Victory

2008-10-18T00:42:00.002-05:00

Tonight we played Brownsboro, Petyon's hometown... Everyone was expecting yet another win for the Bears, but we were all shocked. Throughout the entire game I felt torn. Torn between my hometown, and my brother's happiness. No one would have imagined that the Eagles were going to pull this one out. Brownsboro's record is pretty good.

Every time the Eagles would score and people would cheer, I would clap, but I couldn't bring myself to whoop and holler like normal. After all, the Varsity team had just gotten back from the funeral of two of their classmates (It was today at 3). I prayed every time Peyton went in the game-I couldn't handle an injury taking place while our teams were playing each other and I was watching-and God took care of him.

Our school hurt for them this week. I think a large percentage of the student body feels tied to Bboro for different reasons. Many are empathic because they have lost loved-ones in similar situations. I feel tied to them (obviously) because of Peyton. But no matter how its knotted, we felt attached to Bboro tonight. This week, our school raised $600 to start a memorial scholarship in name of Aaron and Nick Cummings. We also donated 2 trees to plant at their school in memory of the two boys. The Brownsboro people were so thankful, and truly appreciative. We were just glad to do it. I think it helped us to help them with something FF has known all too well.

After the game, I ran over to where the football boys were shaking hands. I spotted Peyt and waited for him to reach the end of the line. He went straight for me and we hugged a great big hug. I could tell he was a little upset, but I tried to lift his spirits by reminding him that I brought homemade cookies for him. :) I think it might have helped a little.

So, anyway you slice it... a part of me won tonight, and a part of me lost. I'm happy that the Eagles pulled it out, but sad because Peyton works so hard, and those boys have had such a rough week. I just pray that the community will heal soon. I know there will be a grieving time, but I pray that they will be able to see God's glory and thank Him for the life they have.

It could have been anyone...

2008-10-14T13:01:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was rough. I knew it was going to be a rough day when I woke up at 6 am to be at Physics tutorials at 7 (Yikes)! I also knew that I wasn't going to get home until VERY late last night.

But despite my rough morning, the middle part of the day seemed to be going just my way. I understood the Physics, and was in a remarkably cherry mood... That is, until I got the text.

I texted my dear friend, Peyton (aka-my only brother) yesterday afternoon to check up on him and see how things were going. I had a District FFA meeting last night, and I was hoping to see him there. As soon as I texted him, I knew something was wrong...

Me: "Hey Peyt! Are you going to the meeting today?"
Petyon: "No... are you?"
Me: "Yeah! I was really hoping you'd go!"
Peyton: "We had two kids burn to death in a wreck today."

It was evident through the remainder of our texts that he was pretty shaken up. Luckily, the boys weren't his CLOSE friends, but when you live in a town as small as we both do... in a way, everyone is everyone's friend.

The two brothers (15 and 16-a freshman and junior) were late to school. They were speeding around a curve, and hit the embankment. The car burst into flames, and both were killed. Mr. Sims, the Brownsboro Ag teacher, (can you tell were're really close to the Brownsboro FFA?? haha) told us that the rescue team told them that they would like to say they died on impact, but the fire department could hear their screams when they arrived at the scene-but nothing could be done.

After my meeting, during Monday night band practice (thank God-NO MORE BAND) Peyton texted me again...

Peyton: "It still sickens me about those two kids..."
Me: "I know Peyt."
Peyton: "Jae-it could have been anyone."
Me: "I know that, too, Peyton."
Peyton: "It could have been me or you. God forbid that would ever happen. You know, everytime I start feeling sorry for myself, there is always something to remind me that I'm lucky."
Me: "You are lucky Peyton, I'm lucky too... I love you bro. I'm so blessed to have you in my life."
Peyton: "I love you, too, sis. I am too."

Our conversation got me to thinking... It really could have been anyone. It made me think of what I would do if one of my close friends (or even not so close friends) was killed. It would tear a hole in my heart. My heart aches for those two boys, their friends, and especially for their mother-who also lost her husband two years ago in a very similar wreck. In situations like these, I cannot help but step back and truly be thankful for everything God has given me.

Luckily, I have my family, my close friends, a home, and a bright future.
Because we all get so caught up in the small things, let me challenge you to look at your life from a different perspective, odds are-things are pretty great compared to others.

Last 1st Report Card!

2008-10-08T20:33:00.002-05:00

As you have read in my previous blogs, the past few weeks of school have not been a walk in the park. Apart from the twirling/band drama, Physics started tightening up, and so did Pre Cal. On top of everything else, our Homecoming game was moved to the week of six weeks test week due to Hurricane Ike (Thanks, Ike...) But never the less, I finished my last "first six weeks".

After I took the Physics Test last Wednesday, I came home and immediately got on "Parent Portal" (a new feature to our school's website where you can check your grades) and looked to see what I had in Physics... the test wasn't posted yet, but "pre-test" I had an 89. So, I calculated what I thought I had made on the test into my grade. It brought me down to a 73. Yep. If I had made what I thought I made... that 20% test would have dropped me 16 points!! Luckily, I didn't make the 10 I thought I was doomed to-I made a 43 instead!

I think I did pretty darn well considering I was freaking out before AND after I took my Physics exam. Sadly enough, my 43 helped me make the 4th highest grade in the class! T-Puck really needs to reevaluate his homework assignments. His homework is so easy-and the tests... super DUPER hard! I came out a LOT better than I had hoped to for the six-weeks. T-Puck gave us some extra credit to work on over the weekend for "bump" points. It was hard, but a friend and I got together on Sunday to work on it and actually worked out the horrendous problems.

I have always been good at English-but I wasn't sure how good until I started D.C English Comp. and Rhetoric 4. (Wow... that is a LONG name) I made a 100 on our first essay (it was a descriptive-of which, I wrote about our family Christmas), and a 100 on our first test over Norse Mythology. The class average on the essay was a 55-so I'm pretty much a heroine when it comes to college essays, apparently.

Band: 100
Pre Cal: 87
Ag: 98
Dual Credit (Navarro College) English Composition 4: 99 (whoop!)
Physics: 84

The end of the first six weeks was such an enlightenment to me... I only have 4 more six-weeks that actually COUNT towards my GPA. And the 6th six-weeks, I don't even have to come to! So basically... I only have about 120 more school days left! That makes me oh-so-happy. :)

I know everyone says, "don't count the days! It goes by too fast-you'll miss it!" and honestly, I am having a good year-but I am just so ready for a change! I have lived in this town my entire 18 years, and a little change of scenery is going to do me some good. I like it here, and FF will always be my home, but next year is going to help me alot! I'm so ready try life on my own (well... partially). I am going to miss my family, but I know they aren't very far and they will always be where I need them.

COUNT DOWN:

37 days until my BIRTHDAY! [Oh, btw--I'm skydiving! :)]

78 days until CHRISTMAS!

112 days until CHRISTOPHER IS BORN!

240 days until GRADUATION!

and about 327 days until MY FIRST DAY OF CLASS AT TAMU (A!!!!)

Homecoming!

2008-10-04T00:20:00.004-05:00

I know how much some of you wanted to be here-so, I'm blogging about it.

PRE GAME

Game

A win for the Eagles and the Aggies

2008-09-27T20:21:00.002-05:00

I had a great Friday/Saturday! Both of my teams won! Fairfield (my team for the rest of '08)... and my AGS (my team for the rest of my LIFE-WHOOP!)

Yay. Sadly... I only got one picture while in CollegeStation-and it wasn't of me. It was of J and Lauren. Dang. But when you hang out with guys, you don't always get a lot of pictures taken. They just aren't "into" it.

I did, however, get some Fairfield pics. Here they are.

Bubbly Bath Night

2008-09-20T23:12:00.003-05:00

I believe we all need to take some well-need "me time" every once in a while. Tonight, I indulged myself in the most relaxing bubble bath. I plugged my iPod into my stereo, and unwinded from a long week. :) It was nice.

Take some you time.

My only brother

2008-09-20T16:57:00.003-05:00

As most of you know, I am the youngest of 4 girls-no brothers. But sometimes family comes in the most unexpected people. Throughout the years, I have aquired a few "sisters" such as Jill and Maxine... and now-a brother-Peyton. I would do anything for Peyton, and he in return would go to the ends of the Earth for me. I am so blessed to call him a brother! (Yes, family... just a BROTHER. Not a prospective boyfriend, or anything of the sort-BROTHER) He's a great guy, and last night I got the privledge to drive to B-town and see him play football at his Senior Homecoming game! :) They won: 39-13. I couldn't be more proud of my brother #59!

UGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2008-09-19T13:14:00.006-05:00

Oh my goodness! I am not sure when the last time I was this angry/frustrated.

As some of you may know, I have had plans to go to the Aggie v. ARMY game on the 27th... I have had these plans since the summer. Well, a few weeks ago, the twirlers are informed that UIL twirling is on the same day... I tell our sponser that I don't know if I can make it, etc. I spoke to the band director as well (who ALWAYS thinks he's right) and he said that I needed to go. The game was originally at 6:00 pm... but now the Aggie website is showing it as an 11:30 am game, and yesterday ESPN was as well... I sent him an email explaining it all, and was very friendly in my email. he was rude in his: "According to the website and ESPN the game on the 27th is against ARMY and is at 7:00. If you are trying to get out of UIL clear it with the line and bring $15." I emailed him back with a link to the Aggie Athletics site which showed the 11:30 am time...

Today when I asked if he received my email, he said he hadn't and when I tried to explain it to him, he was very rude and wouldn't even look at the link. He think I'm FREAKING LYING!

Intelligent people, tell me this. Why would someone lie about something that could be so easily disproven? Duh! OOOhh my gosh!

2008 FOOTBALL SCHEDULE
( Click on an event for complete event information )

Date Opponent / Event Location Time / Result

08/30/08 vs. ARKANSAS STATE COLLEGE STATION L, 18-14
09/06/08 at New Mexico Albuquerque, N.M. W, 28-22
09/20/08 vs. MIAMI COLLEGE STATION 2:30 p.m. CT
09/27/08 vs. ARMY COLLEGE STATION 11:30 a.m. CT
10/04/08 at Oklahoma State Stillwater, Okla. TBA
10/11/08 vs. KANSAS STATE COLLEGE STATION 1:00 p.m. CT
10/18/08 vs. TEXAS TECH COLLEGE STATION 1:00 p.m. CT
10/25/08 at Iowa State Ames, Iowa TBA
11/01/08 vs. COLORADO COLLEGE STATION 1:00 p.m. CT
11/08/08 vs. OKLAHOMA COLLEGE STATION 1:00 p.m. CT
11/15/08 at Baylor Waco, Texas TBA

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
BTW-I just emailed the VP of Ticketing at TAMU-and the game IS at 11:30. Thank you. Ha. Stupid B.L.

FINALLY A WIN!

2008-09-06T12:58:00.002-05:00

We won the football game last night in Overtime.

First tough day

2008-09-03T19:26:00.002-05:00

Today was my first "tough" day. Up until today, I've understood every lesson we've had.

Ugh... I have a feeling I am going to be needing a LOT of help with Physics. It's just not clicking. I'm great in science-but this is so much different. I HAVE to do well in this class-I'm in an advanced class with classmates that "get it". And for those of you that know me well-I'm ALWAYS the best. So I'm struggling.

I understand the core concepts... but when you give me multiple step problems, I get confused and don't know which formulas to use. It's very frustrating and we're ONLY on Chapter 2, Section 3! It's only going to get more advanced.

HELP! If any of you are good with Physics, let me know-I'll be calling you.

Already so tired of school

2008-09-02T21:56:00.002-05:00

I'm thinking about going to school in my pajamas tomorrow.

It's sad this was my 4th day of school and I am already ready to be out. : )

It's not that bad-but I could get so many things done if I was at home-or not done. Whatever it is I need to do.

Oh well... 176 more days.

Senior

2008-08-25T13:20:00.004-05:00

I did it! I'm finally a senior! I am so excited about this year.

I've changed a LOT over the course of the past 3 years. I'm happy with the person I have become and am steadily becoming. This year will be a year of opportunity for me and I cannot wait to see what my future has in store.

I'm proud of where I am, and who I am. This year will not only teach more valuable lessons, but will give me hours and hours of endless fun and memories to last a lifetime. : )

Sweet Sweet "Spotty-Dog"

2008-08-18T13:06:00.000-05:00

Maxi and Me

2008-08-16T11:30:00.002-05:00

As most of you know, my best friend-Maxine, moved at the beginning of summer last year to live with her birth mom in Dallas. We have stayed in contact and are still just the best of friends. I'm sure that God put her in my 4th grade "homeroom" for a reason. Over the years, she has become my sister. I love her with all my heart, just like I do my other 4 sisters (Jasmine, Jessica, Jill, and Jordan). : )

Sure, her name doesn't fit our "J" theme-but I'm willing to give up that cheesy trend anyway.

Last weekend, I was able to spend time with her in her new home in Plano. Their new home is beautiful, and we had a LOT of fun. We spend our first day shopping at Sam Moon (by the way-I found a purse marked for $9.95... it was really cute and cheap I decided to purchase it. When we got up to the counter, the lady said the price was supposed to be $29.95! Ha! I got a deal on that one) and went to see the new Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants movie. The next day, we slept in. After we got up, we went to the Shops and Legacy, and got the most relaxing pedicures EVER. They used hot stones and towels-it was to DIE for! After that, we went to Michael's to get stuff to be little Holly Home-makers. : ) We did our crafts, and then we decided to make BFF shirts. (I know, funny right?) At Michael's we bought the printer paper that you can iron on designs with, and white shirts, with iron on initials (a J and an M). The shirts turned out SOOO cute! We used pictures from Anne Taintor's collection. You know, the really prim and proper women saying some of the most unexpected things. We picked out a saying for eachother. For her, I picked a woman ironing clothes, and the saying is "Guess where I'm tattooed" (Maxine just recently got a wing on her foot). And for me, she picked a woman with a big smile on her face that says, "Honey, you couldn't handle half of me." After that, we decided to make cupcakes-yes cupcakes. We wrote stuff on them like, "I ♥ you" and "So very yummy"... and later, we played scrabble with the cupcakes and found out we could make some "not-so-nice" words too.

The shirts turned out so cute! Here are a few pics from the weekend.

Port Aransas

2008-07-27T20:17:00.005-05:00

Wednesday night, my family and I left for our first "real" vacation together. It was just such a great experience to have everyone-Mom, Dad, me, the sisters, the husband and boyfriend, and the nephew all at one place together (we missed Pressly). We ate a lot, played a lot, and laughed even more. It was a great four days at the beach!

Convention

2008-07-19T09:54:00.001-05:00

Convention was a BLAST!

In a nut shell, I got my Lonestar-and had fun hanging out with my friends. I'll type a more lengthy blog later when I have time. : )

Officer Camp.

2008-07-11T01:01:00.004-05:00

Yesterday and today, I went to my very last chapter officer camp. It was a little hard for me because of past experiences and the fact that the new district officers had NO idea that I had held a office before. The fact that they were treating me like a freshman just starting her FFA career really did not settle well with me. I know I seem a little wrong when I say this, but I know the game they are all playing-I've played this political game myself. Now I know just how annoying it is to have someone so much less experienced bossing everyone around or acting like they know all the answers.

If I could give one word of advice to them (which most wouldn't take because they would probably just think, 'who is this crazy chick and what does she know about holding an office? She's not even an Area officer') it would have to be to cherish your time. My time as a District Officer taught me a lot about who I was as a person and what was truly important to me.

Now that I don't have the privilege to be on the Area officer team, I miss the closeness I felt with my fellow officers. My chapter officers are great, and I love them all... but there is just a certain bond between District and Area officers that I miss. Most of the officers from my District Team have either moved on or graduated. I still try to talk to most of them, but one in particular is Peyton.

Since District Convention (the one that elected me District Officer, last year) Peyton and I have been inseparable. We've been the "dos-amigos" so to speak. He's always been there for me, and I have been there for him. We've held eachother through tear-jerking VESPERS and reflection times, and laughed with eachother when our predicted text didn't always spell the words we were hoping it would. This was mine and Peyton's last camp together. It was especially painful for us to sit in the audience instead of leading, but we helped eachother through it.

Next week is State Convention in Lubbock. I am so excited to be getting my Lonestar Degree.

Heartbreak

2008-07-05T22:43:00.002-05:00

Main Entry: heart·break
Pronunciation: \ˈhärt-ˌbrāk\
Function: noun
Date: 14th century
: crushing grief, anguish, or distress

Tonight I suffered pure heartbreak. It's something none of us ask for. It doesn't knock on the door and ask to be invited in. Instead it barges right in and takes a seat on your living room couch.

My best friend in the whole wide world-Morgan-competes in the Miss America's Miss Teen Texas Pageant. She was the top returning girl this year, and everyone expected a win from her. Tonight, as I couldn't be with her, I watched from the Web Cast. My heart nearly broke when she wasn't called for the top 5. This was supposed to be her year... just like it was supposed to be mine. I was supposed to travel to Indianapolis to represent the Great Texas Area VIII Association at the National FFA Convention. But heartbreak fell for me in early May when I was beat out by the two most arrogant and non-deserving members of our District officer team. Morgan's situation tonight just seemed all too familiar. She deserved to wear that crown. I'm going to be here for her, though, just like she was there for me. Sometimes the most unexpected things turn into blessings. And I believe that things happen for a reason, and that God has a Divine plan.

"'For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’ ” (Jeremiah 29:11)

Girls' Night

2008-07-02T12:08:00.004-05:00

It's always fun to catch up with old friends. Yesterday, My great friend Maxine and I went to Waco and made a day of it! It was so much fun to go out to eat, shop, watch a movie, and get our nails done (but it's always fun to just catch up). We had a blast doing things we used to do "back in the day". When we got back home, we decided to have a girls' night! We made our favorite old snack (yummy bean nachos), and watched TV. Afterwards, we took some REALLY funny pictures. We spent the night talking about current events, and childhood memories. It was a LOT of fun! :) But the night wasn't complete until someone got hurt... and that was me.

In the course of being silly, I decided it would be really funny to tackle Maxi... So I jumped up in bed, and cut my head on the celing fan. Yeah, I'm realllllly smart. We ended up laughing until we fell asleep!

Portfolio

2008-06-23T20:06:00.005-05:00

I'm putting together a portfolio. Tell me what you think about these pictures! I want you to be brutally honest!

Alright... Enough already!

2008-06-23T17:02:00.002-05:00

Ok, it's summer. I'm counting today as my first official day of summer vacation because up until this point, I have been getting ready for the fair and if you know my family-you know that the animals take priority over everything.

So today, I spent the day mowing, washing clothes, folding and putting away, and cleaning my room. This is just NOT going to fly as an everyday thing. I need something productive, yet FUN, to do on a daily basis that won't make me go insane.

I've been taking lots of pictures, but there are only so many pictures of puppies and goats that remain interesting. Morgan is getting ready for Teen Texas (in 4 days btw), and it seems all of my friends are moving, in surgery, or working. The ones that are in town like to hang out at night, which is fine-but it leaves me about 14 hours of boring house-ridden things to do until I have plans.

HELP! I need a job, or something equally as time consuming, that will work around my schedule because when I leave, I leave for a week at a time.

BTW, I'm pretty sure Hannah and Teddy are boycotting my fun new Canon Rebel... they won't pose for me anymore. :( I thought my puppies would be the only ones that DIDN'T get tired of all the pictures. Oh well, I'll just have to resort to random people on the street I suppose.

I love the Fair!

2008-06-20T17:25:00.006-05:00

I love fair week... and my new camera (thanks Caca)!

Summer's Here!

2008-06-10T14:53:00.004-05:00

I'm going to take this time to say. I LOOOOOVVVEEEE Summer! Here are a few of the many memories to be made this summer!

San Antonio with the girls:

Graduation:

(This is my forgein exchange friend-Carlos)

This one should explain itself:

It's been a while

2008-06-02T16:23:00.004-05:00

I admit. It's been a while since I have posted a lengthy blog... so to catch up-here it is.

On May 7th I ran for Chapter FFA Officer and was elected Chapter President for my senior year. This was a great victory, not just because I have wanted this for as long as I can remember, but because when I was struck with the fact of not being an Area Officer or Twirling Captain, I needed this-and it came at just the right time!

Then on May 24th I competed at the State Twirling UIL competition. I didn't really practice for it, and when I found out I had Mildred William, I decided to just have fun with the whole ordeal-but to my surprise-she gave me a 2! That was just fine by me. I should have practiced more because this was my last year to compete in the state meet because I am getting out of band at the semester next year.

I have decided that I have worked hard enough during my high school career and that I am going to enjoy my senior year. I'm just not going to stress out over things out of my control, and I am going to spend more time with friends and family, rather than slaving over useless offices/clubs/school related activities. I deserve it. This is my last year at home-and I am going to enjoy every second of it.

So starting Friday night, JMG is a SENIOR!

State

2008-05-24T17:23:00.001-05:00

Alright. So My ensemble get a 3 (ew) and Mildred gave me a 2 for my solo... I'm alright with that. lol

Alright... updating!

2008-05-11T22:09:00.001-05:00

I didn't make Area officer-it's alright-I'm over it now.

Tryouts are this week.

So are Chapter elections.

It's gunna be a crazy week. I'll update more later.

PICTURE TO BURN!

2008-03-19T09:09:00.002-05:00

"Picture To Burn"

State the obvious, I didn't get my perfect fantasy
I realize you love yourself more than you could ever love me
So go and tell your friends that I'm obsessive and crazy
That's fine; I'll tell mine you're gay
And by the way...

[Chorus:]

I hate that stupid old pickup truck
You never let me drive
You're a redneck heartbreak
Who's really bad at lying
So watch me strike a match
On all my wasted time
As far as I'm concerned you're
Just another picture to burn

There's no time for tears,
I'm just sitting here planning my revenge
There's nothing stopping me
From going out with all of your best friends
And if you come around saying sorry to me
My daddy's gonna show you how sorry you'll be
[Repeat Chorus]

If you're missing me,
You'd better keep it to yourself
Cause coming back around here
Would be bad for your health...

I hate that stupid old pickup truck
You never let me drive
You're a redneck heartbreak
Who's really bad at lying
So watch me strike a match
On all my wasted time
In case you haven't heard,
I really really hate that..

[Repeat Chorus]

Burn, burn, burn, baby, burn
You're just another picture to burn
Baby, burn...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

There.... I feel better. :)

I'm done with all the crap. I'm so over it! I'm tired of the obsessiveness... Really tired of it. If he only KNEW how many better opportunities I had, he'd be kissing the ground I walked on. Ha! I'm striking a match!

The Adventures of Sally... "Sally does..."

2008-03-15T15:03:00.004-05:00

So my friends and I are starting a new internet youtube series called "Sally Does". It all started when I videoed my friend, Sally, riding her lamb... I put it on youtube and I had instant responses. Everyone seemed to love it... So then, I put a video of her riding a mechanical bull... everyone loved it... so now we're shooting at least one episode every other week. It's going to be a success. I know it will.

Fishing...

2008-02-03T22:41:00.000-06:00

I went fishing today-first time in about... 3 years (?).

It was a blast! I can't wait to go again. And look at my little fishy!

Making the Best out of it!

2008-01-16T15:36:00.001-06:00

This past semester has kicked my B-U-T-T! It's just been hard to juggle 2 college classes and 2 AP classes... and all my extra-curricular activities-Needless to say, I am SO glad to say goodbye to the fall semester! "Hello Spring!"

Hopefully this spring will lend me time to relax, and get some stuff done in time to start football season next year. :)

So on the bright side: I now have 7 college hours, we're getting a new band director (and getting an old one back), I'm a semester closer to graduation, I've met some awesome new friends, and the Spice Girls are reuniting! :) What more could I ask for?

New Years!

2008-01-02T23:23:00.000-06:00

Happy New Years everyone! I pray this year will hold great things for us. :)

Here are some of 2007's highlights. :)

DISNEY

AGGIE GAMES

TWIRLING

RYAN

FRIENDS

FAMILY

Teddy

2007-11-25T10:10:00.000-06:00

So Close Now...

2007-11-22T11:22:00.000-06:00

Struck with the fact that very soon I'll be sending in college applictions and moving to College Station, I've been doing some thinking. Now some of you may think, "ehh... she has a year and a half, she's overreacting". Imagine this, 12 years ago, as my daddy walked me in the doors of the Elemetary School, he had a conversation with a classmate's dad I'll never forget. He said, "Well, Danny, we have about 13 more years, then they'll be gone, too". As an anxious 5 year old, embarking on her first day of Kindergarten, I disregarded the statement, but as a blossoming 17 year old, I have come to know that years fly too quickly.
Growing up we learn that people are not always who they say they are, our most dependable friend is going to let us down, our hearts will be broken, and we will break hearts in return. We think we're ready to leave this town, but we will always hold dear to our hearts the memories made here. We may have all the roads memorized, but there's always an unforeseen obstacle in our way (especially when curfews are broken).
Yes, I do have another year to prepare to be a "grown up", but time is inevitable.

Don't get me wrong, I don't think about leaving everyday, and I'm still enjoying being a kid, but I sometimes, I can only imagine the years to come. :)

At LAST!

2007-11-07T17:28:00.000-06:00

I GOT MY LETTER JACKET! :) WHOOP!

And my ring should be coming in shortly!

Teddy Strikes Again

2007-10-16T20:38:00.001-05:00

So as some of you may know, all though Teddy is lovable, and a joy to be around--she can be obnoxious and LOUD...

She bit dad's finger hard yesterday-drew blood even. But before you start judging her, listen to the story. :)

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Yesterday Dad was carrying on about his business with Teddy and Hannah outside with him. They were following him around and being "outdoor" dogs.

Dad realized that the electrical fence was not working so he went to clearing grass off of it to help the circulation.

Just about that time, the fence started working and Teddy fell into it! She couldn't break away and she was just stuck there.

Dad reached down to save her from the shock, and she bit him out of fright! She then ran all the way to the house.

Much Better Now

2007-09-27T18:52:00.000-05:00

Can I just say, I love my family. I love my family... my friends, and my puppies. :)

I've been doing much better now. Just a little tired every so often. (I actually fell asleep in the tanning bed today)

It's becoming more and more clear everyday that I'm graduating next year. After next year, I'll be on my own (or as much as I can be, I know I'll always have a home here). It excites me, and scares me a little, but I know I'm ready to take on college and the life "out there". I guess the only thing that scares me is moving away from my parents, and my friends. I've spent my whole life here. But for every ounce of sadness, there are 2 of happiness. :) I still have 2 years, but these past 2 have FLOWN by! I know that these next two are going to zoom by!

When is it going to STOP?

2007-09-13T19:18:00.000-05:00

Between the Monday night TWIRLING practices, the Monday night MARCHING practices, The Wednesday private TWIRLING TUTORIALS for girls on the line, the Thursday ENSEMBLE TWIRLING practices, the Thursday LINE TWIRLING practices, the Friday PEP RALLIES, the Friday night FOOTBALL GAMES, SOLO twirling practices, FFA, two COLLEGE classes, 2 AP/Honors Classes, 3 HIGH SCHOOL classes, bullying ADMINISTRATORS, keeping my twirlers in order, planning MEETINGS, taking make-up work to my sick BOYFRIEND, teacher CONFERENCES, CLEANING the house, HOMEWORK AND SLEEP... how do I manage? I've yet to find out. It's getting harder and harder every day to put a smile on my face and handle my responsibilities as a leader, a student, a twirler, a daughter, and a girlfriend. Don't get me wrong, I love doing these things-it's just hard to juggle it all. After football season is over it will get better. Just pray for me; I just have a lot on my plate, and I don't want to drop any of it... It's one thing to be carrying a balanced plate of Steak, a serving of mashed potatoes, some green beans, and a glass of tea... but I'm carrying about 6 steaks, a pot of mashed potatoes, a field of green beans, and a barrel of tea. :) Thanks for all of your support, I couldn't do it without it.

They Grow Up So Fast

2007-09-03T12:33:00.000-05:00

It's true... Teddy (a.k.a. Teddy Rumpskin, Tedster, Ted, Teddly) is growing up. Next week she will get her LAST set of puppy shots. It's crazy to look back on her earlier puppy pictures and see how much she's grown. When we brought her home, she was 1.5 lbs. Now, she has quadrupled in size! Never the less, she is as sweet, and adorable as the day we brought her home. She has really captured our hearts.

Then

Now

School, Time, and God's Plans

2007-08-22T13:22:00.001-05:00

I'm pretty sure this is going to be one of the most random posts in my history of blogging, but here it goes--

Football season starts next week. That's crazy.

School starts in less than a week, and I still have work to do, but I procrastinate. I still have to read 2 books and finish the work on them.
It's so crazy to think of myself as a JUNIOR. Where did all the time go? I remember running around playing in the dirt, riding bikes down to the neighbors house, and all the baby fat. :) I remember it like it was yesterday. How do things suddenly seem to change? Only 2 years and I'll be out on my own, I'm doing my best to make the best of every day I have left here.

I lost a family member last weekend, but I know God has great plans in store. I will always love Baby O, and I'm sad that I won't get to meet my neice/nephew in this lifetime but I know I will see him/her in heaven, and that brings a great smile to my face.

Dress Code

2007-08-13T18:59:00.000-05:00

Who knew...

Knees are considered risqué
Boobs are visable 2 inches below the collar bone
Pictures from a western photo shoot with a pistol is considered to be promoting "gang violence"
Skirts worn with a nonvisable thong is acceptable, but wearing slightly visable "puppy print" panties is not
Red hair is a distraction
Locking the doors to the class room at the tardy bell and making those who are tardy sit outside is used for safety of the students
Skirts and Dresses can be worn 2-3 inches above the knee, but shorts cannot show any part of the knee... sitting or standing
Polo shirts can be a violation of dress code
Teachers can show more skin than students and not be sent to the Principal's office

Who knew FHS had this horrible of a spin on reality?

Scarlet Letter

2007-08-03T14:28:00.000-05:00

It should be named the D letter... for Dumb. :)

I hate summer reading. it sucks.

Kilgore

2007-07-25T09:33:00.000-05:00

Seriously, watch this, it's amazing.

So some of you may know, lately I've been more intersted in going to college to twirl. Every year we bring in a coreographer to plan our routines. For the past 7 years we have brought the same girl. She is awesome, she makes the hardest tricks seem like a piece of cake. She was a Kilgore twirler, and a Twirl O Jack for SFA. When I had a private lesson with her yesterday, I asked her more about Kilgore twirling, and if she thinks I could make it on the line... this to which she replied, "Oh yeah! There are some girls on the line that aren't even as good as you now." :) That made me happy. She's a member of the alumni committe and she's on the board of directors...

Ha, that makes me smile.

Teddy Bear

2007-07-24T11:07:00.000-05:00

I love my new baby. She is as sweet as can be, and she's finally used to the new house. She barks and growls when she plays, eats puppy food, plays like a big dog, and uses the potty outside. It's so cute! Oh, Hannah-by the way- LOVES her. She's such a great dog... she doesn't wake me up whining anymore either... she wakes me up wanting to play :| Although that doesn't sit too terribly well with me... it's better than a sad puppy. Agreed?

BABY O and CHORKIE

2007-07-19T15:32:00.000-05:00

We're having a BABY!! Well, not me (thankfully) but my sister is! And I could NOT be more excited. I have a hunch... it's a girl. I know it. :)

Oh, and I'm getting a puppy... very exctied. It's a Chorkie, and I'm naming her Pebbles because the little girl on the Flinstones has her hair up in a bone, and Chorkies are notorious for having a bow there... :) Cute, huh? She should only get up to about 7 lbs. (MAX, that's fat Chorkie)

Since many of you are very skeptical about me getting a puppy... let me assure you, I'm ready to take care of a puppy. I'm getting her shots, a bed, toys, and all the amenities that puppies need (on my own). I'm going to clean up after her, and train her... Kennel train her, I might add... so, don't sweat it! I got this.

As an adult...

As a Puppy...

STATE CONVENTION

2007-07-16T09:44:00.000-05:00

Just to let you know how much Area VIII rocks...

¤For the Past 6 years, we have had 5 State Presidents or 1st Vice Presidents

And yes, again, we emerged undefeated. Justin Self, our Area Representative got President. He will represent the Texas FFA for the 07-08 Year.

And you want to hear something WAY cooler? We're related somewhere WAY down the line. :)

2007-07-02T12:41:00.000-05:00

I'm a little reluctant to say that I am TIRED OF ALL THIS FREAKIN' RAIN!

I'm thankful that we are no longer in a drought... but we don't live in the tropical rain forest... it should rain once/twice/three times a day! It's ridiculous! *sigh*

I guess it could be worse.

2007-06-26T12:52:00.000-05:00

A Job...

Those dreaded 2 words. I sure hope my job at Mom's office isn't dreadful at all... I start today at 1, but I'm already there because my mom is out of the office and needed me... But the phone isn't ringing and I'm bored--So I blogged. Happy?

Jaelan

2007-06-22T11:47:00.000-05:00

Wow... so far this summer hasn't stopped for me.

My summer so far:

¤ May 27 State Twirling Competition (Which... of course I got a 1, lol)

¤ May 28-June 2 Disney World (And... of course, it lasted a week)

¤ June 3-10 Get 7 animals ready for the fair (Yes... SEVEN)

¤ June 11-16 Fair (My, oh my, what a week!)

¤ June 15-17 District Officer Camp (You guessed it... I was coming back and forth to Fairfield for the Sale)

¤¤¤And did I MENTION I had my 6 year old nephew with me during this time for about... 2 weeks?! :) Yes, I'm a trooper!

¤ June 18-22 Kiddy Twirling Camp (6 LOUD 8 year olds-enough said)

¤ OH AND TONIGHT WE HAVE A SUPRISE PARTY FOR HER...

BUT NOW I HAVE A LITTLE BIT OF A BREAK! I'm going to get caught up on my reading and house work. YAY!

2007-06-10T15:28:00.000-05:00

Oh Happy Day...

The past week has been (I must say) stressful, but I have a strong feeling that next week... it's going to pay off big time! Like... Thousands of $$$ big time.

I show Tuesday at 1:30 and Thursday at 8:00 and 1:00. Wish me luck!

And here are some Disney Pictures as promised...

2007-06-04T17:11:00.000-05:00

All your dreams will come true

Disney was utterly amazing. My favorite park was Magic Kingdom. It was full of princesses and fairy tails... can you IMAGINE why it was my favorite?

And I'm sorry Jessica but my pop up blocker won'y let me add photos today... I'll do it later

2007-05-20T23:13:00.000-05:00

Mickey Mouse

I have a very full week coming up! My last full day of school is tomorrow (just to let you know, I could NOT be happier that it's my last time to go into spanish). Tuesday is a half day, and then I have to come for an hour Wednesday... Friday is graduation, and Saturday I leave for San Marcos, and Sunday I leave for Florida... I'll spend a week in Florida and when I get back, I've got to bust my butt to get ready for the Fair-I'll only have a week and a few days! Ah!

Florida is going to be a BLAST! http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/wdw/index

2007-05-12T22:13:00.000-05:00

Blessed to be alive

Today was a great day! I got to spend some much needed time babysitting my little surrogate sister, Claire. She's getting so big! She can walk and is started to mouth some words. She was a joy all day to watch.

After babysitting, I came home, spoke to mom while she was walking to the couch to crash, then went to Ryan's. I always love being over there, it's just like home, and I love his family.

Tomorrow I get to see all my sisters. I must say, I'm pretty excited!

Happy Mother's Day!

2007-05-06T12:44:00.001-05:00

"It's a Wonderful Day in the Neighborhood"

It feels so good to breathe. The past few weeks (especially the past week) have been super hard and stressful. With the year coming to an end it has been crazy trying to get everything winded down at school. Just in the past week I had District FFA Elections (1st Vice, Baby!), The Chapter FFA Banquet, The Acadmeic Banquet, and Twirling Tryouts (Captain). It has been insane... and now, I really don't have much to worry about. With the year ending, it's rare that I have homework, and if I do it's not much.

Today was a beautiful day, it feels good to breathe.

2007-05-06T12:44:00.000-05:00

Wow... Prom was amazing. Here are pictures, Jessica so you don't have to call and wake me up anymore :) Love you sis

2007-04-07T18:45:00.000-05:00

Snow in Texas...

Not to mention, in April

is not a likely senario. But that was the scene today. When I awoke (at 11:45 I might add...) it was POURING! But not rain--snow! I raced outside and, for the first time in my life, felt like I resided in a snow globe. The snow was beautiful. It looked as if I had millions of glitter specks falling down all around me. It was a wonderful surprise!

2007-03-27T18:56:00.001-05:00

Do you ever have those days where things are just rolling along and then-BAM-your day turns out to be FABULOUS? Well, today was definitely one of those days for me!

For months Ryan and his family have been stressing about finding a house... they are renting at the moment, and were going to buy the house they live in now, but when the inspection came back... found that it had extensive damage. So for the past few months they have been "house hunting" with my mom. Today I'm 99% sure that they're house hunting is overwith! That news MADE MY DAY! :) I love to see people I care about so much happy, and that topped the cake!

2007-03-13T17:09:00.000-05:00

It hate nasty days like today.

The rain comes at the most unwanted times. It comes at the times all you really want to do is go outside, and with all your excess baggage sit and listen to the birds chirp... But here it comes in all its splendor, making mud out of the dirt you want to walk on, and a blanket over the sun you want to lay in.

The rain seems to spread like a disease, and before you know it, everything and everyone is completely drenched with it. On normal days, I too would be dripping with this intense, evil suppression, but not today. I have learned not to worry about the "somebodies", the "nobodies" and yes, even the "busy bodies" who just want to make your life a giant mud puddle.

In the words of a very wise 17 year old, "Why let them get to you? Are you even going to remember who they are in three years? What does it matter?" So the rain makers can try and rain on my parade, but I'm making mud pies. :)

2007-03-11T17:08:00.000-05:00

I love love love my Zoe Claire.

And "Ryno" is awesome too...

2007-03-04T11:50:00.001-06:00

So I officially have my license now.

It's great. I love it. Anyway... So the past few weeks have been fabulous!

2007-02-22T21:30:00.000-06:00

There is nothing better.

Nothing better than driving with the top down and listening to Your Body is a Wonderland.
I love these kind of days. They are the type of days that motivate you. They make you try to make a difference. These are miracle days. And they are slim to none.
These are the days that make me want to be 5 again. They make me want to hop on my bike and ride down to the neighbors house, on my way I would pray they were home because I had just found a really cool new tree for our club-house.
These are the days I am thankful for everything I have. These are the days that make what I take for granted surface. I'm blessed to have healthy parents and loved-ones who love me, and I don't say it enough. If it weren't for all of you, these days would mean nothing...
They wouldn't mean motivation. They wouldn't mean childhood innocence. And they wouldn't mean love.
Today, is the day.

2007-02-19T16:23:00.000-06:00

Hoy está muy mal. No siento bien y pienso estar enferma. El fin de semana pasada, siento mal, pero yo piensá que yo siento mal porque las alergías de mí... Pero... ahora pienso es una pequeña gripe (cold).

Ok, so enough Spanish. I had to wear Offcial FFA dress all day today, *yuck*.

Tomorrow is the Reading TAKS test... *Oh Joy*

I had a great time in Austin despite how I felt. I am very proud of Jessica, and all the runners amazed me!

2007-02-14T21:38:00.000-06:00

VALENTINES DAY! (oh... excuse me Jessica, V-day)

I think this was by far the best "V-day" I've ever had. I planned a surprise picnic for Ryan, and he loved it! We had a blast trying to keep the chocolate from getting hard. Ryan surprised me with a dozen BEAUTIFUL pink roses, a basket full of goodies, and a stuffed poodle (could he have done better? I think not. Lol

2007-02-01T19:40:00.000-06:00

Me, Sore?

Most of you know, I'm not the most athletic girl on the block. I twirl, and that's about it. Well, I started Tennis this week. It's a blast, but, oh my goodness I'm sore. Who knew I was so out of shape? I'm doing my best and I think I'm holding up pretty well. I waddle a little when I walk (haha) but besides that, I'm great.

We started serving today; not fun. I'm not good at it. Hopefully I'll get better. Oohhh I hope, I hope. I hate embarrassing myself. And when I swing, and my racket doesn't make contact with the ball, it frustrates me.

Other than Tennis, things are going fabulous! I get to see my sister, Jordan this weekend, and tomorrow is her birthday-YAY! How exciting!

Take Care!

2007-01-30T20:06:00.000-06:00

Before.....

After

My Beautiful teeth--and other random pictures! :)

2007-01-28T11:41:00.000-06:00

I've never seen so many half naked people in one place!

So I went with Lanett (Ryan's mom) to the powerlifting meet. It was so much fun! I loved watching the people try to lift these enormous amounts of weight; and watching Ryan lift, of course. But everyone walked around with no clothes on, I was astonished. Even the girls would walk around in their underwear and bras, like it was no big deal. I guess it wasn't, but... Goodness!

After the 7 hour meet, we went and ate Chinese, which was FABULOUS, and we went to Sams, and then Wal*Mart.

At Sams, as if me and Ryan dancing around the store wasn't entertainment enough, he put me in a buggy and started pushing me around-it was hilarious! His mom took pictures, I'll post them when I get them-they are so cute!

And Guess what! Tomorrow is the day I've been looking forward to for 2 1/2 years!!! I GET MY BRACES OFF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WooHoo!!!

2007-01-25T16:24:00.001-06:00

That Wonderful Feeling

Can I just say I am so thankful? This year has started out so wonderful! Everything is really taking off for me-I'm driving, I'm getting my braces off, I have a WONDERFUL family whom I love, FABULOUS friends, and a GREAT Boyfriend :)! Not only that, but school is getting easier, and I'm making better grades.

I can tell this year is my year, I'll be turning 17-I cannot even imagine-that's almost GROWN UP! It seems like yesterday I was counting the days to my 10th birthday-when I could FINALLY be in the double digits. Now, over 6 years later, I'm wondering where the time went? It seems sureal to me that I'm actually growing up, I'm actually in high school, I'm actually going to graduate and go to college in 2 years, and I'm actually a person that's going to have to make it in this world. It excites me, and scares me a little. I know I'm going to be a successful person; it's just going to take a lot to get there: PreMed, Medical School(+ Residency), having a family, and just being happy in general. [Hey-At least I'm part of the way there-I'm happy :)]

Love ya'll!

JAeLAn

2007-01-14T10:17:00.000-06:00

Well Well Well...

I got 3rd at the debate tournament yesterday! Yay!

Nothing else to say... haha

♥

2006-12-26T14:54:00.000-06:00

CHRISTMAS!!

It's a wonderful time it is-Christmas! We four girls and Mom and Dad along with various other family members (Pressly, Matt, and Aaron) had a fabulous and crazy time.

Along with all of the presents (note the amount Jasmine has...) we ate a very large lunch, and later spent time laughing and trying to recover from the day's events.