Soli Deo Gloria

2010-07-22T20:57:00.000-07:00

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I don't mind spending every day hanging out at Border's Cafe.....

2010-07-21T22:30:00.000-07:00

**The title of this is from a parody song Meghan and I made up on one of our treks to Borders...it should be sung to the tune of "She Will Be Loved" by Maroon 5. However, I do not spend everyday at Border's Cafe...though I go to Borders often as described below.

Just a quick little update. I have been super busy with school and entertaining guests. :) Meghan's family was here my first week of school, my family was here my second week and over the next two weeks both JB and Melinda will be visiting the wonderful city of Nashville. I have however found a new home away from home. When I moved here was very disappointed because I couldn't find a Barnes and Noble anywhere. I hate Book-A-Million, sooo unorganized, and when going to Borders- B&N's equal- I felt as though I was cheating on B&N. I know, I know, it's ridiculous and stupid, but that's just how I am. However, what's a book lover to do?

It wasn't until two weeks ago, that I began to appreciate, nay even like Borders. I went in to return a book James Taylor had suggested to me. I'm sorry James, I dont want to read about a little 10 year old who was raped and whose dad took his revenge. A Time To Kill is just too much for me. So I take it in and ask the guy at the front if I can return it. After flipping through it- I guess to make sure I hadn't left gum in it or marked it up- he agreed to let me. I said he may as well just give me store credit as I would just be back in here soon. "In that case, can I make a suggestion?" He asked. "Of course." I responded. He grabbed a book over on the side and handed to me. "This is one of my top three favorite books. Everyone I know, loves it." So of course I ask him what it's about...I mean it has a dog on the front...dogs aren't my favorite. He says "Well, its from the point of view...of a dog....who believes in reincarnation...and it's really sad." Great, I think and try and think of something to say to get out of buying it. Then he hits me with, "It doesn't sound good but it's really, really good. It made me cry. It's really sad but if you get to the end it's very redemptive." Now I have to get it. After all, isn't that what I say about Twilight...minus the crying and being really sad and very redemptive part. Aren't I always like "Well no, it's not really about Vampires....it's about a girl who falls in love with a guy...who happens to be a vampire...no it's not about werewolves...they're really shape-shifters....just read it." So how can I tell this guy no? So I exchange James' recommendation for this Borders employee's recommendation. I didn't like it so much at first, but for a book from a dog's point of view, whose owner is a racer (as in racecars) I really did enjoy it. It was redeeming and it was sad. It's definitely a winner and definitely better than A Time To Kill. So good job Borders, your employees actually know something, unlike B&N and BAM. Also your store is actually pretty cool with all it's coves and sliding ladders....and could only be a bit cooler if life were in fact a musical and one could ride them around the cove singing about far-off places, daring swordfights, magic spells, and a prince in disguise!

Today an employee recommended Life of Pi. I was hooked by the end of the Author's Note. The author is Yann Martel and there is something about the way he writes that makes even sloths interesting.

We're still church hunting so if you know of a good church in the Nash hit us up. Right now we are thinking either Fellowship Bible Chruch or Christ Pres...thoughts?

It's late so I'm going to go read some more about a God-loving boy named Pi Patel.

Scripting and Storyboarding: Friday

2010-07-10T13:45:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was Scriptwriting and Storyboarding. This is BY FAR my favorite class I’ve ever had- no exaggeration. My teacher is VERY laid back and VERY sarcastic. He’s hilarious. I not only took notes in class but took notes what he said. Here are some of the funnier things though I’m not sure if it will translate through words as well as it would if I was telling you. Also some may not be funny out of context of the class but I still thought they were.

Every time there’s a silence he fills it by singing “Hot Pocket.” He also will say something quite like, “What time is it?” or figuring out what to go to next and he’ll say “What is he whispering about…should we be taking notes…it sounds like he’s talking to yourself. ”

Then we were talking about the format for writing Screenplays. He was telling us that the dialogue is always centered under the characters name and in explaining why he said, “Why is the dialogue indented? Because actors are the stupidest people out there…..well except for Dell Tech Support.”

Someone asked, “What about ‘CUT TO’ do we put that after you put to fade out of a scene? ” He responded, “Well let me just tell you- if you write ‘CUT TO’ you’re being a jerk and telling the editor how to do his job. You want to be friends with them.”

Explaining Aesop’s Fables he said, “You know ‘Tortuous and the Hare?’ ‘Slow and steady wins the race?’” pause. “Not true.”

He asked us how many of us liked powerpoint. Half the class raised their hands. “You’re all crazy…looney toons. Powerpoint sucks.” I agree with him.

And at the end of class we watched a documentary on editing- pretty cool- and they had montages all throughout it and that scene from Titanic came on…you know the one where Rose lets go of Jack and he sinks down. He goes, “Ahhhhh!.....Oh…sorry.” It was HILARIOUS. Anyways, I got an email from my Design Fundamental teacher and since we missed school Monday we are behind and I have to read 6 chapters to get caught up. Check you guys later!

Drawing 1: Thursday

2010-07-10T13:44:00.001-07:00

On Thursday I had Drawing 1 and while it wasn’t as intimidating as I thought it would be, I’m sure it will be hard. I can paint adequately and I can draw some, but I really struggle with portraits and still life pictures. The class was very entertaining though as I made some friends. There were 19 people in our class, 15 Interior Design students- who were at least in their 2^nd quarter and 4 Digital Media and Animation students who were all 1^st quarter students. When he asked what programs we were from we discovered that as well as the fact that we had completely segregated ourselves. All of the Interior Design students sat on either side of the class room facing the middle and the 4 of us sat in the four desks connecting the two sides. John, Jay and Denis were the other DMA students and the three of them kept me quite entertained and as it turns out I have more than one class with each. I have Storyboarding- which was Friday- with Denis and Jay and I have Design Fundamentals with John on Monday.

You can generally tell who belongs to what major if you pay attention. There are of course exceptions and I haven’t seen any photography students so the rule doesn’t apply to them. Audio Production students are generally the ones who look like rappers. Piercings, crazy hair, and baggy pants belong to this major. Fashion Design students look well fashionable...for the most part. Interior Design and DMA generally look normal, but it’s the conversation that sets them apart. If you’re standing around a group of students and they’re talking about normal things and they aren’t DMA students.

With that being said, I’m sure the Interior Design students thought we were losers but to each his own I guess. We were talking I quickly discovered they are WAY into anime and manga. At one point they tried to explain the concept of Yugio and Pokemon games- which I just don’t get. Well the only thing I know about Yugio or Pokemon is from Jameson’s younger years. I had at least heard about it so I could almost follow what they were saying. I told them I thought both of them were old and not really around anymore and John informed me that there is actually a Yugio tournament downtown but it is invite only and either it costs 10000 dollars to get in or you win that much….maybe I should pick up Yugio…just kidding. This conversation also included topics of World of Warcraft, Halo and other games. After a little while I hear, “Jar Jar Binks is too cool!” “No he isn’t. NO ONE likes Jar Jar Binks…he’s the downfall of the Jedi.” Since I can somewhat follow a Star Wars convo (I haven’t seen them in forever) I chime in on Denis’ side, “I like Jar Jar Binks.” John then explained why Jar Jar is stupid. Then Jay decides to chip in. “Anakin is the best Jedi! He’s so cool.” The three of us look at him like he’s insane and John follows up with, “Have you ever even seen Star Wars??” Anyways, they were quite entertaining and I’m glad I’m meeting people in my major. I’ve never met so many people in one term. Fun times.

I love my school!

2010-07-06T12:51:00.000-07:00

Today was my first day of class! Last night Meghan and I went to Walmart to get a few last minute items for this week. I found Alice in Wonderland notebooks and yes, I got them :) I worried a little that I wouldn't get up in this morning because I haven't had to be up early in so long. I didn't get up when I originally planned but I got up early and didn't have to rush getting ready and was even a little early to class.

This class was not one I was particularly looking forward to. It's called College Success and it's the only Gen Ed class I have this quarter. It sounds kinda hokey but we all have to have it. Turns out, I dont think it's going to be so bad. I really enjoyed the class. We had to get up and speak in front of the class and it didn't really bother me. I really hope I'm getting used to speaking in front of crowds...I had to do a lot of that in my childcare classes. The class structure was really, really relaxed. I'm not sure if that's because that's how this class is, how IADT is, because it's the first day or because our teacher, Mrs. Jones had been out of town for the past month. Whatever the reason I was surprised by this. Mrs. Jones was in and out getting things straight and running off more pages of stuff and the people in class were really relaxed about it too. We got a 30 minute break- which would have been enough time for me to come home, type this blog and go back- a little over halfway through and when we got back we got our homework for chapter one- though we really didn't cover anything. It's SUPER easy. You know when teachers go through the chapters and pick out sentences and leave blanks, or have a bunch of listing questions which the answers are in the headings? That's what this was. That's my kind of homework ;) (legit though, that's how I learn- writing)
I finished the entire packet before I left. So now all I have to do is a little project.

Thursday I have drawing and that is my most intimating class. I draw some so I'm a little excited, it's just not my strongest area. Friday is storyboarding. I am by far most excited about that class. It is going to be AWESOME- I hope. I've met that teacher and he seems really cool. He's one of those people who has been in the field, made more money than I ever want to and now finds more satisfaction in teaching than doing. Cool little fact about him: You know those Dance Dance Revolution games in arcades? He designed the girl who gives the tutorial. Anyways, I'm pretty pumped about that class. Finally on Monday I have Design Fundamentals. I'm excited about that too.

So there's an update on my first day. I'm really excited about this and I really love how they have their classes set up. I think I've mentioned before the gen ed classes are bigger- around maybe 20 and the core classes (major focused) are much smaller. This means I have basically every class with James Taylor and at least 4 others whose names are not quite as easy to remember. So that's probably more than you wanted to know, but my parents read this too you guys, and they dont have great reception at the lake. Boo them ;)

later

4th of July: Nashville Style

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

As I've said before, Tori left yesterday to go down with my ENTIRE family to Lake Santa Fe. I'm incredibly sad I'm not there with them and I hate that this happened to be the one week I couldn't go...well of all past weeks. Let's just say as soon as I get my two week break in September I think I'll be heading down to the lake. I'm also sad that I missed out on July 4th at the Lake because I dont remember being at Lake Santa Fe for one single 4th of July. However, if I had to miss the 4th at the Lake, I'm glad I'm in Nashville.

While we've been here, we've kind of stayed away from festivals downtown because of the fight to get there. Between traffic, floods of people, and the heat it's not always worth it. Nashville is all about some festivals and as the 4th fell on a Sunday this year, Nashville took full advantage of that offering free entertainment all weekend. It's not like Taylor Swift or Paramore performed so again we stayed away from downtown knowing it would be chaotic. It's not that we dont want to experience the awesomeness that is Nashville, it's just too hot to right now and we dont listen really listen to a lot of country. Anywho, Meghan discovered that they were having a firework show at the Riverfront Park, close to the Titian's stadium, accompanied by the Nashville Symphony yesterday and this was too cliche and too good to pass up. So we got ready and headed downtown. When we hit our exit we were across the interstate, on the other side of the Stadium, and the other side of the river from the park, yet we were already in bumper to bumper traffic. It was one of those exits with a little meadow in between the interstate and the off ramp. Well about three cars ahead of us this car just pulls into the grass facing the stadium and parks it there. The next three follow suit and we decided too as well. Within ten minutes there were at least 30 cars in the median. By the time the fireworks were done there had to be over 50. At this point cars were pulling straight off the highway into the median.

The show was one of best I've ever seen. As Meghan said They definitely were keeping with our culture millions of dollars were definitely wasted on celebrating our independence but it did look good. The experience was really cool. Everyone hanging out in the median watching the fireworks, and listening to the Nashville Symphony on people radio, we had a font row seat to the glorious explosions. I must admit it was pretty cool. Here are some pictures:

Sacrifice and Lessons from Potter

2010-07-05T02:30:00.000-07:00

Spoiler Alert: There's a little bit of a Potter spoiler- though if you haven't read the books and have just seen the movies you don't really know what's going on and that's on you. ;) Read the books!

Meghan and I had heard that they were having a free fireworks show at the Riverfront Park (near downtown) tonight with the Nashville Symphony. So tonight we got ready and headed that way. On the way there were random fireworks going off all over Nashville. I'm truly a fantasy fiction nerd. One of my first thoughts was, I bet this is what it was like the night Voldemort attacked the Potters and was virtually destroyed by Harry, or rather Lily's sacrifice for Harry. If you haven't read Harry Potter you don't really know what I'm talking about.

'Let me explain...no there is too much, let me sum up.'

The night after Halloween people were celebrating all over England just like we celebrated our freedom all across America tonight. But these people were'n't free from the unpleasant reign of a far away government, they were free from a reign of terror. In this book series, 'there was this wizard who went...bad. As bad as you can go. Worse. Worse than worse. His name was Voldemort.' Voldemort had plagued the wizarding world for around ten years causing fear, death, pain and heartache. No one could stand up to him and no one could stop him. But a mother who sacrificed herself for her child, Harry, stops him- at least for 14 years or so(and in the end Harry stops him by the same means). Lily Potter doesn't stop him- this living terror- by any words, spells, or physical force, she stops him by sacrifice. Voldemort wants to kill her son and she sacrifices herself for him, giving him protection from this evil one. Now I realize this illustration- like every illustration- falls short in one way or another, but as I watched fireworks pop up across the sky and as my mind turned for a second to this series I found that I was humbled and called to praise the Lord for His sacrifice for us, freeing us from a reign of terror instead thinking much of the physical freedom we celebrated today. Brothers and sisters, let us not praise Him for our physical freedom alone, for our true freedom is not physical, but a spiritual. For what is physical freedom when we're a slave to sin?

Happy 4th

2010-07-04T15:57:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to say Happy 4th!

And say thank you, Daddy Jim and Dad, for serving us and your country.

Thank you also for loving your wives, your children and (great)grandchildren, for teaching us to love the Lord and His word and for making your house and family one we all cherish being a part of. I love you guys and am so thankful the Lord ordained for me to be a part of your family.

2010-07-04T12:40:00.000-07:00

Just a quick little update.

Tori left this morning to meet up with Bethany, Alex and Stertle to head down to the lake and meet up with not only the rest of my family, but from what I understand, the Gordon family (plus Cindy) as well. I may be just a little bit jealous because this little piece of heaven:

is my favorite place on earth.. However, next week is definitely one I'm looking forward to! At least the reason I can't go is a good one. I start school on Tuesday! I got my books this past Thursday. My Design Fundamentals and Storyboarding books are very interesting and I found myself being slightly Hermionesc as I looked through and read parts of them. I'm not quite that good though as I didn't read all three of my books cover to cover. ;)

Along with my books- which were surprisingly cheaper here- I also go two "kits."

One, for Design Fund. like this:

It was filled with all kinds of art supplies. I also got a canvas bag full of artsy goodies. Everything from canvases and notebooks with different kinds of paper (paint, newspaper etc) to paints, colored pencils, smudgers, cutting boards, to scissors and different kinds of glue. I am SUPER excited. However, even though all of this art stuff is fun the class I'm most excited about is Storyboarding. My schedule is pretty good. My least favorite class is on Tuesday- it's one of those core classes. And my two favorites are on Friday and Monday- which are two days you don't want to be in school. So that works out nicely. So that's an update on the school front.

As far as Nashville goes I'm still completely in love with the city. When I say it's so much fun living here, I don't mean that we're doing a lot of stuff yet I mean that it's literally just so much fun living here because Nashville is a fun place. I mean, who would want to live in a place where you could pass Hotel Preston every day?! Anyways, check you guys later. If Meghan is feeling better later we're going to the Waterfront Park to watch fireworks while the Nashville Symphony plays...I guess we do stuff sometimes ;) later.

Well now I think Eclipse can handle that.

2010-06-30T02:06:00.000-07:00

I just got in from the Eclipse midnight premiere and it's 3 am but I wanted to write a quick post so that those who are wondering how good it is would know. It's late and I need to get rested for tomorrow night so I'm just going to hit on the highs and lows of the movie experience.

First low of the night was when we noticed a group of 12 year old girls. They proved to be very annoying as they began chanting cheers before the preview started. They were eventually silenced by agitated "20 somethings" telling them to shut up. So annoying. They were quite until the Deathly Hallows preview and then proceeded during Eclipse to scream EVERY TIME Taylor came on screen. We are now considering smuggling super soakers (Brett's idea) into Breaking Dawn.

Another low was when the screen split up so that the top was at the bottom and the other way around for a few minutes during the movie. People, nay the jr high girls, filled this time screaming for them to "FIX IT! FIX IT NOW!" and missing a lot of lines that were said. They know it's messed up and they are fixing it...it's not like someone did it on purpose....or maybe they did ;)

One thing that I just dont understand is when directors or screenwrites decide to change little things like who says what, or what color hair a character has. I just dont get it.

And finally, poor Bryce Dallas Howard (daughter of Ron Howard) never even had a chance at being a good Victoria. Again I'm mad at Summit for firing Rachelle to pay Rob and Kristen more. That's not ok and Rachelle was much better. It's not that Bryce isn't a great actress, it's just that she's not Victoria. Rachelle was spot on. But what's done is done.

My favorite things of the night:

We sat outside a sneak showing of the Last Airbender- also staring Jackson Rathbone who plays Jasper in Twilight- and the manager let Meghan and I go in and see a little of it. Tor opted out. We're really excited about that coming out tomorrow night.

This movie/book had a lot more to do with Jasper Hale- my favorite Twilight character plated by my favorite Twilight actor- Jackson Rathbone. He got a lot of face time and I'm very glad.

This movie also stuck to the book more than the others in my opinion. It was out of order but kept most things in. They also used a lot of lines straight from the book.

Stephanie Meyer recently released a novella called The Short Second Life of Bree Tanner. Bree was a newborn who figures out part of Victoria's plan- or at least that Riley is lying. It's kind of tragic because you like Bree by the end but you know her ending from Eclipse, so you know her fate. Because of that book we understand a lot of what's going on with the newborns and Slade did an excellent job bringing that into Eclipse.

I was REALLY glad they left all of the back stories in there. They did such a good job on the Legends and Rosalie and Jasper's back stories. Jasper even said, "My apologies, ma'am." presh. Also, Nikki Reed- gorgeous...they finally didnt jank her hair up. In fact everyone's hair and make up was a lot better.
The battle scene.....amazing. I mean amazing.

Finally, it seems that Kristen and Rob are finally comfortable on screen. Kristen didn't blink as much and they didnt seem as awkward. I dont know, maybe I'm used to them now or maybe Dakota gave her pal Kristen some tips. Either way it was a lot easier to watch.

Well I could go on and on about things I loved and things I hated but it's 4 and I've got to go get rested for another premiere. (I also just want to point out that we dont just go to movies all the time. The last movie I went to see, I believe, was when we were visiting Nashville and saw Date Night. It's just that there are two movies we've waited all year for that premiere two nights in a row. And it's Meghan's birthday week.)

Good night and Congratulashla to David Slade on the best Twilight movie so far. Losing you as a director for BD 1 &2 really makes me nervous now.

Eclipse, Burger King, Lost remotes, LOST and Alias...just a few thoughts

2010-06-25T21:50:00.000-07:00

As anyone who is friends with me on facebook, or up-to-date in world today the third installment of the Twilight Saga: Eclipse premiered yesterday. We were very excited about this as E! covered it and had live interviews on the red carpet. Joy Beth went and got a camera for her computer so we could skype during it. We had it all ready to set up, Joy Beth on one computer and we'd hook up another computer to the tv so that we could all three see and watch the eonline live coverage of the red carpet. Our internet has been going in and out for a few days now so I woke up early(ish) and called Comcast. WELL. After being on the phone with them quite a while...twice....and after someone came out to "fix it"...AND after plugging up a new wireless router it still didn't work well enough to watch a live stream or to skype. So we decided to go somewhere else. We opted on a Starbucks figuring there wouldn't be a lot of people there on a Thursday. We were wrong. However, it was doable. I'm sure we were quite a site. We were at two little round tables- pulled together- with a computer on each. On one computer we had Joy Beth on Skype- though we couldn't see her- and on the other we had the live stream. We thought it might be rude to have the Skype going loud so Tori had headphones on that and we had a splitter in the computer with the stream so there were three pairs of headphones. Meghan and I also had JB on the phone.

So Burger King is Eclipsed out right now. They have Eclipse "toys" in the kids meals, Eclipse cups, Eclipse bags, Eclipse games. It's pretty fun. We went in tonight and were really excited. He handed me a Jacob cup but I, of course, had to get another. After we had ordered we decided to get a large fry cause it has the game pieces on it and the guy just gave us one. We won a free whooper off of it.

Another fun thing happened tonight. Since we've been here our remote hasn't turned the volume up on the TV. Tonight Tori found a random remote. She tried it out and it turns down our tv! You dont know how great it is! We dont mind getting up and down, but watching Alias and Lost means just about every other scene is some quite talking and the next will be loud explosions and smoke monsters.

Speaking of Lost and Alias...Terry O'Quinn is in both Lost and Alias. They are both shows created by JJ Abrams and actors in his shows are often in others. Anywho, Terry plays this FBI(except he's not really FBI he's some covert something) Director named Kendal. In Lost he plays one of the main characters, John Locke, as well as Brother- the smoke monster.

So on Lost Locke- the real one, not the monster in the later seasons- was obsessed with the idea of destiny. On the show he and Jack, the protagonist of the show, flesh out the ideas of faith and science or destiny and free will. The other day we were watching Alias and Director Kendal said, "Sydney, maybe this is your destiny." I did a double take to see if Lost was on cause of course it sounded just like Locke. I think the similarities between these two shows are interesting. Well Lost is on and it's super fun watching this in retrospect.

ABC's of Eclipse

2010-06-25T20:49:00.001-07:00

Annoying

b/c Bella cant decide between Jake and Edward
and gets a little annoying

Bree Tanner

b/c she told Edward the Volutri knew about Victoria's army
and did nothing

Camping

b/c of that awkward camping trip in the mountains

Dakota Fanning

b/c she knows how to act

Eclipse

b/c Jacob can handle the clouds
but he can't compete with an Eclipse

Frienemies

b/c it's what the werewolves
and vampires really are

Graupner

b/c "G" is always for Graupner

Hostage

b/c that Hostage stuff is fun

Insidious

b/c it means

1. operating or proceeding in an
inconspicuous or seemingly harmless way
but actually with grave danger

2. Volturi

Jasper Hale

b/c he already told Victoria he could handle that

b/c he's sorry he kept Alice waiting

b/c we learn his story

Kiss, Kick 'n Kill

b/c it's what happens during the battle scene

Leah Clearwater

b/c we feel sorry for her
b/c of Sam's imprintation
and b/c she's a wolf

Marriage and Monster

b/c it's what Edward wants and
Bella's afraid of
and it's what Bella wants and
Edward's afraid of

NSYNC

b/c Victoria wants Bella
Edward wants Victoria
and Jacob wants Edward
to walk out that door, baby bye, bye, bye

Overprotective fools:
b/c Jasper and Edward are
both slightly overprotective of
Alice and Bella

Party

b/c if Bella really loves Alice she'll let

her throw a graduation party

and plan her wedding

Quil:

b/c they thought it was weird when

Quil imprinted on a two year old...

Rachelle

b/c we miss her

Switzerland

b/c it's Team Switzerland

not Team Jakeward

Team Newborn

b/c by the end we all wanted them to

kill Bella

Ultimate Battle scene

b/c in Breaking Dawn they just go

think at each other

Virgo

b/c Jacob doesn't want any of those

freaky virgos around

Win-Win-Win

b/c Bella chooses Edward

leaving Jacob free to imprint

and making them one big happy family

X-best friends

b/c though they have a rough patch,

Jacob and Bella do become friends again

Y?
b/c we're wondering y
you haven't read them yet

Zero

b/c there are zero newborns left

Happy Belated Fathers Day

2010-06-21T14:14:00.000-07:00

I realize I'm a day late but I still wanted to say Happy Father's Day to my Dad!

I just wanted to say thanks Dad for loving my Mom.

Thanks for loving us and being a godly example for us

and thanks for allowing us to pursue our dreams.

I love you Dad!

TTown Surprise!

2010-06-17T17:20:00.000-07:00

This Saturday one of my friends is getting married so I thought I'd make a trip out of it. As Father's Day is Sunday Tori and Meghan came down with me. I've found it weird coming back as it feels like I've been away from Alabama for months but at the same time it feels like we haven't been in Nashville nearly long enough for a prolonged trip home- I mean we're not even finished with making our apartment home. Anyways yesterday I met my mom in Birmingham and Meghan and Tori went home with her while I headed to Tuscaloosa to surprise Lynn- who is home alone with the kids while KJ is out of the country on a mission trip. So about 7:30 I showed up at Lynn's and surprised her. She was very surprised and excited. Ella was at Aunt Teresa's spending the night and James was in bed so we had a fun night of talking, catching up and movie watching. This morning we went to Aunt Teresa's house to pick up Ella and see Katie and her children. We then tried to think of something fun to do before going to the store so we went to All Fired Up. It was a fun visit. I really miss All Fired Up. If I had stayed in Tuscaloosa I would have worked there soon. I told Noelle that the closet Ceremic Studio in Nashville was 20 minutes away in Franklin so she said she'll just have to come open a shop there. I agree...she should. Tonight Lynn and I cooked again, just like old times. We had Taco Salad and made a cookie cake....yum.

Well, I need to go because I'm about to head to the caug. Check you guys later!

Ha, you can really see the red in my hair here...Ella was making playdough PB&Js

Lynn and me

Ella's Cinderella Shoe:

James was such a trooper

James was so excited driving the cart

The back of Ella's Loveless shirt

Ella and I in Loveless shirts...and my horridly long bangs, gross

ps. thanks Lynn for letting me use your pictures :)

7 Things I've Learned From My First Week In Nashville

2010-06-12T20:51:00.000-07:00

There are a few things we have learned from the past week in Nashville.

1. Avoid major highways and interstates from about 5-6:30

2. Just because something says that somewhere is about 4 miles aways doesn't mean that it'll just take around 5 minutes to get there.

3. The AT&T building is known as the Batman building

4. The Batman building is on the East side (my side) of downtown and is very useful for navigation

5. Everyone references the flood

6. Avoid downtown during the CMA Music Fest

7. Ice Cream trucks aren't sketch everywhere

No, We dont have any friends

2010-06-09T18:42:00.000-07:00

This morning when we woke up the power was off. A few blocks surrounding us had a black out. So with no air and no lights on a dark cloudy day we decided to check out a mall in Franklin, which is just South of us. While in town we went to switch the power bill to our name and buy our tickets for Eclipse. When we were at the theater the guy asked if we had any friends going to a certain theater number, as I said no Meghan decided to throw in, "No, we don't have any friends." It was pretty funny. We then decided to go to a mall in Franklin I found out about last night that has a place like All Fired Up and a Production Company that has done a lot for Student Life. We didn't have the address because the power was out at our apartment but this mall was in a barn so we thought maybe if we could get to Franklin we could ask around. As it turns out we couldn't find it and it started raining so we came back to Nashville, picked up something for wedding gift and FINALLY made it home. When we got back our power was back on so now its time for some Alias and dinner. Check you guys later!

Here it is...The Factory at Franklin: http://www.factoryatfranklin.com/

and oh yeah, my hair has red in it now.

Hello from Nashville!!!

2010-06-06T10:32:00.000-07:00

Hey Everybody! Well, it's official. We're Nashvillians! Here's a quick update on the process:
Thursday was quite a hectic day. We spent the morning calling around to different UHAUL places to see if anyone had one the right size. We had no such luck. We then branched out to other moving truck options besides Uhaul. We ended up finding one in Birmingham with Budget Movers (I think that's what it's called). This was cheaper than a Uhaul as it had unlimited miles. This was such a blessing from the Lord as it solved many problems. Because of this it didn't matter that it was in Birmingham and we could take it to Tuscaloosa to get my piano, books and bookshelves. Mom and I got home around 10 or 11. By the time we got there Meghan, Tori, Dad and Bethany had most of our boxes and stuff in the garage and we were able to load it all in the truck that night.
Friday, after getting my car back from Turner's and taking it to get a tire changed (of course multiple things go wrong the day before/and of the move) we grabbed a few last things, loaded my car and hit the road. We all left in intervals but got here around the same time. It was pretty fun because we passed each other randomly, for example, I met up with mom and Bethany in bham and later just before the Tennessee line. Somehow Tori and Meghan who left third beat us all here and had our keys by the time I got here. The three of us all pulled up in front of our apartment at the same time and got to soak it in a few minutes before Mom and Bethany, and eventually Dad, joined us. (Dad was in the truck and went a different way through bham)
Since then we have been unpacking like crazy, including two trips to Walmart for odds and ends we dont have. It's been fun driving around and getting to know the area. (We have an Aladdin Street down the street!) There are so many nice people here! We were greeted to the apartment and helped by passersby. I love Nashville!
Saturday I went to IADT for my orientation. We got our cards (kinda like ACT cards at Bama) made and our schedules. This was exciting as well. Last night we took Dad and Bethany to The Loveless Cafe so they could try it and I could get some Jam for Lynn. We had the same waitress as the last two times and she was just as great- and remembered us. We also saw the Simpsons and Ensors (minus Justin) from Open Door/Tuscaloosa there! I hardly ever saw them in Tuscaloosa, but I have seen them now at Disney World and in Nashville. It was fun seeing familiar faces so soon!
Last night at Loveless Tori pointed out that it was weird that we were eating at Loveless and we didn't have to go back to Bama the next day. I agree with her. Usually when we come up here we do what we have to do, eat at Loveless, Pancake Pantry, hit up the park, maybe something else instead- sometimes get trapped in our hotel from flood water- but then we're headed back to Bama. I agree with her. Even though it is finally looking like home, it hasn't really set in yet. We have made major progress in every room and are all exhausted, maybe after we're finished and rested it will. This afternoon we are taking Dad and Bethany to Pancake Pantry, BookMan and BookWoman (an used book store across the street from PP) and to Centennial Park. We are very thankful that Mom, Dad and Bethany came to help us move in and excited to show them some of our favorite spots.
This week we hope to finish unpacking and at least start the painting. Meghan's mom, aunts, and cousin Lindsey may be coming for the Eclipse premiere...or maybe it's for Meghan's birthday two days later...and we want to be done for them. Mom also may come then for the premiere. So we'll see how it goes.
Well I'm exhausted and your probably tired of reading this by now so I think it's time for a nap. Check ya later!

Phobophobia

2010-06-03T00:05:00.000-07:00

Tonight we were talking about Meghan's fear of aquariums and decided to look up what that phobia is called. We didn't find what that phonia is called but we found some other fun and interesting ones.

Automatonophobia: the fear of ventriloquist dummies. This also extends to wax figures and other personlike things. I don't think I have a fear of these things but they definitely freak me out.
Pediophobia: the fear of dolls. Again, I dont have a "fear" of dolls but porcelain dolls freak me out as well
Panphobia – Fear of Everything...that would suck.
Cacophobia: fear of ugliness
Nomatophobia: fear of names
Venustraphobia: fear of beautiful women
Xanthophobia: fear of the color or word yellow
androphobia: fear of men
aphenphosmphobia: fear of being touched
bibliophobia: fear of books...oh the sadness
gamophobia: fear of marriage...know a few of those
porphyrophobia: fear of the color purple
pyrophobia: the opposite of pyromania
francophobia: fear of france of france culture
genuphobia: fear of knees
geliophobia: fear of laughter
illyngophobia: fear of feeling dizzy when looking down
megaphobia: fear of meghan
xenoglossophobia: fear of foreign languages

Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia: Fear of long words

Arachibutyrophobia- Fear of peanut butter sticking to the roof of the mouth.

Now, I dont suffer from these...I do have a fear of heights but oddly enough I didn't come across it. While most of these are silly, people really do suffer from paranoia and fear from many of these things. Praise the Lord God sets us free from our fears.

2010-06-02T23:31:00.001-07:00

Word of the Day:

Hippopotomonstrosesquippedaliophobia: Fear of long words

Update

2010-06-02T17:32:00.001-07:00

Man, it's been a crazy week! We have been packing like crazy to be ready by Friday. We still have a little ways to go. I also have a piano, printer, books and two book shelves still in Tuscaloosa and it has been a little bit of a pain trying to figure out how to get that here, however we finally figured it all out and if it all works out we will be in Nashville on Friday by 5 at the latest. I cannot believe we are this close to being there. I also found out yesterday I have an orientation on Saturday where I'll get my id and register for classes! I am SO excited about starting school in July and also cannot believe I am about to be learning how to animate, direct, write and edit at a legit film school! God is so gracious!
Another thing we are all really excited about is that a girl and guy I graduated with are both going to be in Nashville. Katy is only there for the summer. She is interning with a church in Henderson, just north of Nashville.
Drew will be moving to Nashville soonish, though I'm not sure it'll be this summer.
These guys are awesome and I'm really excited that they'll be there.
Here are some pictures from our senior trip:

Crystal, myself, Katy and Medforth

Drew carrying St. Augustine into a DWebb concert

St. Augustine, though headless now, is making the move to Nashville as well.

Both Drew and Katy are incredibly talented so be sure to check out their stuff here:

Katy, the graphic designer, Pope's blog: http://katypopedesign.blogspot.com/

Drew, the writer, Jones' blog: http://drewj1.wordpress.com/

On another note, we took last Thursday and Friday off from packing because we had a little 4Pack Reunitation. Joy Beth has an internship in Dallas this summer so on the way to Dallas she stopped in Bama for a few days of fun. One of her friends is spending the summer in Dallas with her doing an internship of her own and so, of course, stopped with JB. We loved getting to meet one of Joy Beth's other friends as she has met loads of ours. Lauryn was presh and we cant wait to hang out again. We just hung around and relaxed Wednesday night as they had been in the car all day. Thursday we went to swim and layout at the Kimber's house. Unfortunately, Mrs. Kimber was at the beach and Mr. Kimber at work. They are kind enough to allow us to hang out at their pool whenever, but we were really bummed that they weren't there because 1. we LOVE the Kimbers and 2. JB was really looking forward to meeting them. That night we stayed up until wee hours catching up on life, love and other mysteries. Friday we had a "photo-shoot" with Halie Batson Photograpy (sounds so legit huh?). Then wrapped up the night with more relaxation and a little New Moon. Here are some pictures from Friday:

Well there's some laundry and some boxes calling my name. I probably wont be able to post again before the move so check you guys from Nashville!!

2010-05-27T09:19:00.000-07:00

Last summer Rachelle Leferve was unjustly fired...well, let go...and we weren't happy about it. For those who dont know, Rachelle had the role of Victoria in Twilight and New Moon and let's just say she was one of the best actors in the movies. Summit's official line was that it was a scheduling conflict, which is not true. ANYWAYS, heres what we did the next day...

http://www.youtube.com/user/thepa4ck

Hey! Got any Grapes?!

2010-05-20T01:47:00.000-07:00

I was on the to bed and Meghan introduced me to The Duck Song. It's HILARIOUS! Instead of talking about it here's a link to the videos for The Duck Songs 1, 2 and 3

HEY! Got any grapes?!

Till the very next day...

By the way....

Watch them and laugh.

interesting encounter

2010-05-20T00:37:00.000-07:00

The other day my friend, Kim, and I went to see Robin Hood. We made a quick detour to pick up drinks and M&Ms-even if they weren't overpriced they dont have them at The Cobb anymore and you've gotta have a little chocolate in your popcorn. So while we're there I see that this gas station is one of those rare gems of a station. Not only do they carry Starburst Gummie Bursts but they're in a box- with more! Delighted I got a box to introduce Kim to this wonderful candy. As we're checking out and talking to the cashier I'm telling them how good this candy is. The man to the side of us, and next in line interrupts. He says, "Excuse me, can I ask you a question?" I looked at him confused, "Sure." "How old are you?" I hesitate a couple of seconds as I ponder the reasons for asking me this. Does he think I'm being stupid because I'm this excited about a candy? It's an awesome candy! It'll change your life Mr.! "I'm 22." I answer calmly after a couple of seconds. "Oh, ok. I was just wondering cause my daughter started graying when she was 16." I looked at him slightly confused again. "Um. cool."
My mom started "graying" when she was around 15. My "graying" doesnt bother me it just caught me off guard. Anyways, it's late/early and I've got a lot of stuff to go tomorrow. Check you guys later.

peace.

Kameron's Getting Married!

2010-05-19T19:43:00.000-07:00

I can't believe Kam is getting married this weekend! In honor of this blessed occasion I decided to have a quick walk through the past...

Christmas of 1990

Christmas of 1991

4th grade graduation

High School graduation-graduation Sunday

Kam and I graduation night...both of us have KJ's cords on

Washington DC- Senior Trip

'88s Christmas 06...aka Bethany's Wedding

At Lake Santa Fe....this was a VERY interesting trip.

I am so excited about this weekend and so glad that his bride is Olivia. I would not approve of anyone but Olivia! Congratulations guys! I love you!

CRAZY BUSY!

2010-05-17T23:49:00.000-07:00

I finished my last class in Tuscaloosa this past Wednesday. It was so good to leave those halls for the last time. After such a stressful week of studying I spent my afternoon painting at All Fired Up. Meghan's birthday present had broken in the kiln so I put off going to redo it until after my finals. The reason for this was two fold. First, I didn't have time due to studying and second, painting always destresses me. So after a fun afternoon of painting and a going to Cwood to hear David for my last Wednesday in Tuscaloosa, I headed home looking forward to some earned, imo, relaxation.

The relaxation was short lived. By Thursday I had caught up on 24 and LOST. OH MY WORD! What a confusing week on LOST and what a crazy week on 24. I was very disturbed by Jack's character change and thinks that last week's 24 proves how far the writers have strayed from Jack's character. The Jack from the first 6, maybe 7, seasons would never take out people for revenge. What happened to Jack's honor? If this wasn't the last season of 24 I would have to say this would be my last season.

LOST was as confusing as ever and left us with more questions than most fans, including myself, think acceptable this late in the game. We have waited and waited and waited for them to start answering some of the questions that have become the greatest mysteries known this generation. What's the deal with the alternate reality? Where did the temple come from? What is Widmore's endgame? Where are Richard, Ben and Miles? Anyways, there are way to many questions for them to continue raising more this late in the game, even if they did finally answer a few about Jacob and Esau/MIB.

ANYWAYS, Friday I got sick with head stuff and though Saturday was nice and relaxing at the Kimber's house, I began to loose my voice. The Kimbers were so kind to have us over. Michelle swam and laid out with us all day (Bill and Cary were there on and off) and then Bill grilled for us. It was delicious! Thanks Kimbers! Also on Friday Melinda came and that's always full of fun!

Sunday morning I woke up early so I could make it back to Open Door. It was my last Sunday and was sad that it was my last Sunday to worship among them. I will miss OD- and you others in ttown- very much and am so thankful the Lord sovereignly brought us into acquaintance. By Sunday I had almost completely lost my voice, had a horrible cough and was pretty sure I should at least check out the doctor before heading home.
So Kim and I went to see Robin Hood after church then went home and watched her BBC tv show, Robin Hood- which is great and I spent the night over there so I didnt get Ella and James sick on wedding week.
Today I went to the Doctor to find out I did not have strep or the flu and got 4 more prescriptions....great.

Today also begins wedding week for Kam and Olivia and packing week for me. Tomorrow I have to finish the rehearsal video and begin going through "my room" which has become the "hey we'll take this to Nashville" room and boxing things up. Wedding day, after the wedding, Joy Beth will be here and Sunday afternoon I'll head back to Ttown to finish getting my stuff and for the Premiere parties with KJ and Lynn.

Next week should be pretty fun with JB here and on Thursday....WE MOVE TO NASHVILLE BABY!!!!

2010-05-12T22:41:00.000-07:00

FFFFFFFFFFRRRRRRRRRRREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM

Happy Mother's Day from the 4Pack

2010-05-10T20:47:00.000-07:00

I'm reposting this since I'm too busy studying to write a new blog until Wednesday....This was from the 4Pack to our mothers. It's on our blog. So Mother's Day is extended on here one more day for you mom (even though you already read it)...

The 4pack just wanted to say HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to our mothers.

Thank you for putting up with us! We would also like to thank you for funding our wild shannagins over the past two years. Thanks for allowing us to make memories and to go see one another. We wouldn't be the 4pack without any of you!

Thank you for:

Having us and putting up with us long enough to get here:

Thanks for letting JB staff Crestridge and for letting Tori staff Crestridge...and for letting Meghan move to Bama!

Thanks for letting us live together, because even though God had other plans and it was a short time- He used this to bind our hearts together...so thanks for 106:

and thanks for Al and Allie Elephant/Tootsie Roll and Todie Tide ;)

Thanks for this trip:

and this trip:

Thanks for all our road trips to see each other and other related stuff:

Thanks for housing us on these trips:

Also, thank you for feeding us on these trips-

Thank you for letting us meet:

him:

and him:

and them:

and her:

and letting us have the opportunity to give them this:

Thanks for letting us play Poker and Quelf until wee hours when we're together:

even though the laughter probably means a little less sleep for you.

Thanks for this premiere:

and this premiere:

and all the other premieres...and the ones to come

and for letting us play with drumsticks around yall:

Thank you for being legit and not being this:

Finally:

Thank you for putting up with us when we're a little crazy:

or a lot crazy:

especially then...because you dont just get 2 times the crazy...

you get 4 times the crazy...

and while you get 4times the crazy with the 4pack you also get 4times the love!

WE LOVE YOU!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO THE 4PACK MOTHERS!!

4> the 4Pack

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T12:08:00.000-07:00

I'm interrupting my massive 6-day study session to bring you this Mother's Day message:

I am in the midst of a major study week for ONE, that's right just ONE final. The rest are either a little project or simple test....I just have one massive one on Wednesday. However I wanted to take a break from studying to write a little post about my mom....cause well let's face it, she's the best.

Mom is a native Texan. She was born and raised in Texas and is proud of it. We get that from her. However, she loves Alabama too. Mom was a stay at home mom throughout our childhood. This is something that we not only loved then, we appreciate now. It's not that we could just afford for her to stay at home- she just did. She gave up some luxuries so that she could be at home with us. When we were in high school, and running around with busy schedules, she started working at a "local upscale gift shop" here in town.

Mom was never one we feared going to for advice. In fact, our closest friends often go to her for advice and wisdom. This is because she doesn't beat around the bush or avoid topics. She isn't the type to avoid a topic like sex. Therefore, we didn't just have a mom telling us: don't do that, do this. Mom told us why purity is important and that sex has it's place. She was also never a mom who ignored the things we did. She was very much a part of our lives, and was never scared to be the disciplinarian instead of the friend. My siblings and I, though we were not always grateful then, are incredibly grateful for this now.

The Vickster has become more of a friend to us as we've become "adults." I mean, she's legit awesome. How many mom's do you know of that can go to a midnight premiere of Harry Potter and/or Twilight and be totally cool and not embarrassing? Let me tell you not many. Usually mom's who go to premiere events- or events like this- are either totally oblivious and there for the child (and bravo to you too) or either totally inappropriate and or drunk (twimoms). There is a reason she's the alpha of the 4pack after all.

______

MOTHER'S DAY PRESENT:

I made these for her...there's a previous post about them. She got them last weekend in Nashville.

Alpha "a" cause she's the alpha of the 4pack because Meghan, Tori, JB and I love her

A tile I painted her...a little thanks for giving us Nashville.

The silhouette is the skyline of Nashville in instruments...the four pics represent our 4 favorite places.

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY MOM!!! Thanks for being awesome!

2010-05-04T01:08:00.000-07:00

I was looking through my external hard drive and found a video of Tori and Joy Beth. This is on their first road trip of the summer. I am sad that I missed it but glad they filmed some fun stuff. This is just one of several hilarious videos they came back with.
I love these guys and I miss Joy Beth VERY much! (another plus about Nashville: it's closer to JB than ttown is!)

Being Home...weird

2010-05-03T23:46:00.001-07:00

We got to come home today. So many things feel weird and out of place since being back.

It's weird seeing life go on, and talking to people who know little or nothing about what happened the past two days in Nashville. I understand it; it's just weird. I cannot express how much I hate that I had to leave and that I can't be up there doing something.

It's weird how connected you feel to people when you go through something like this. There's that feeling of "if you weren't there you have no idea." (which really you dont- cause you weren't there so that's kinda a 'duh' one ;) ) There's also the "I survived the flood of 2010" bond you have with anyone you meet up there.

It's weird how people all of a sudden stop caring about stupid stuff and care about each other. The only thing you see and hear about are people risking their lives to help others, and people wanting to do more. I heard about a man who broke into his neighbor's house, while it was flooding, in order to store all his clothes, instruments, and anything that he could upstairs because his neighbor, a musician, was out of town. There was also a school that is taking a few days- at least- to volunteer because "why have school when our classmates' lives have just been ruined." Also you have the ones who made it out ok but just want to help. One of my friends who lives up there said he couldn't wait to leave work today and go volunteer.

It's weird that I suddenly feel bad for taking a long shower or not drinking my entire Mountain Dew or bottled water.

Finally, it's weird how little coverage I've heard of down here. Most people know hardly anything, if anything at all, about how bad it is. So in order to give you a glimpse....

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vwCGz1vSh_M

I'm just a little black rain cloud...pay no attention to little me???

2010-05-01T22:24:00.000-07:00

This morning started out pleasant despite the rain. I had an open house at IADT, so I got to meet one of my professors and get a glimpse of what I'll be learning. We also saw Bertha of course- she LOVED her Bag of Bertha.

The rest of the day will be expressed through Facebook statuses and pictures:

The ones with my name at the front are my statuses and the italicized are my thoughts in retrospect.

Hillary Winter meeting that Rutledge boy at Pancake Pantry! Waiting in the rain- worth it!

At Pancake Pantry you have to wait outside...we forgot umbrellas...and the miserableness of the rain begins- though it was worth it, it was COLD and WET. (Grammy, we got wet!)

Hillary Winter This afternoon's entertainment is being provided by cars crossing the RIVER in the road!

This little flood was on the way to our hotel. We utilized Trixie, the GPS, and went around the flood. However, we went back and sat in the parking lot of another hotel to watch. So here, we were safely watching from a far.

Hillary Winter Legit thigh high water and cars are driving through. Two cars have died.

This picture is of the driver of the first car (who for some reason thought it would be smart to gun it through the river) helping the guy who tried going across even though the first car was still stopped in it. Not smart Josh-not smart.

Hillary Winter Police are now taping it off

She opted out of helping Josh and putting tape on our side...her amazing idea lasted all of 10 minutes after she left. She's here to protect and serve- unless that means crossing 3-4 feet of water...then your out of luck.

Hillary Winter Police left and truck mowed through the tape

Hillary Winter just helped push a car out of the road, in a skirt, in the rain. It was legit fun.

me, meghan, tori and random nice guy...Josh is in the car being chivalrous of course.

Hillary Winter just so everyone knows- we're totally ok. We're taking our new friend Josh home

This status was because people started asking, and stuff.

Hillary Winter is still ok however after an hour sitting in traffic we found out it was flooded to the point of floating cars. Decided to go back.

This is what was going on just up ahead: .http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n5gYhLKwS

exiting the I24 on the "on ramp."

Word to the Wise:

if you are going to get on the interstate and you see that hundreds of cars are exiting on the onramp, just turn around- obviously something is wrong.

3 HOURS LATER:

Hillary Winter just dropped Josh off. Heading back to town

1.5- 2 HOURS LATER: (even though he only lives about 30 miles away)

Hillary Winter IS BACK AT THE HOTEL! what a night. what. a. night.

(That's an Office reference)

Hillary Winter Brett 'Sherbs' Rutledge you sure picked a crazy night to miss...definitely have a few more stories now.

Hillary Winter yeah if you've seen the house float down i24, we were just behind that...just on dry ground. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n5gYhLKwSp4

NEWS QUOTES FROM THE NIGHT:

"This flood can only be described as Biblical" ....well, not so much

"You may be carried away or worse, you're car may be totaled!" ...."he needs to sort out his priorities" (Harry Potter reference)

Man in a church "We've been to the river, but this is the first time the river has ever come to us"

"Flooding is still our biggest concern." ...duh.

Anyways, fun times in Nashville! Still love this city...moving here in a month!

All Fired Up!

2010-04-30T00:26:00.000-07:00

Over the past few weeks I have been working on some projects at All Fired Up. For those of you who don't know, All Fired Up is contemporary ceramic shop where you paint pottery. I have found it very relaxing and therapeutic. The staff are so pleasant and nice and let me just say, they have great taste in music! It all started over Christmas when I made the 4Pack coffee mugs that said 4pack. That was my first visit and I didn't realize you could print things off and trace them on. They turned out ok even though I free handed them- though next time I will be using our font! After I had my Hiatus Scan on my birthday my mom, Tori, Meghan and I went back to celebrate my birthday with some family friends who were visiting from Texas- the Burns. This time I was wiser and printed out what I wanted to put on my project. As my birthday is in January and I was still hyped up on the National Championship (by the way, I still am) I made an Alabama National Championship Plate. I LOVE how it turned out. It's so cute, I'll try to post a pic when I get back to ttown. Anyways, about three weeks ago I went in to make a mug for our IADT admissions rep/advisor, Bertha. We LOVE Bertha and she loves us. She is so presh. Before my mom left Magnolias she had some credit so with it we made a little "Bag of Bertha." So this mug was for the bag. On the front I did the IADT logo and on the back it said "World's Best Rep." Tori liked it so much I made one for the rest of us, as well as my Mother's Day presents.

Here are the results of the past few weeks...

Mom's:

This was mom's Mother's Day present part one. She got it early. It's the Nashville skyline made out of instruments. Then across the top the pics represent our favorite places...the Centennial Park- the Parth is there, the Pancake Pantry, IADT and Loveless. It's a thank you for letting us move. It hangs up.She liked it :)

Tori's:

This is Tori's IADT travel mug. One side has this- for fashion design and the other side has the IADT logo. It's all raised. Her quote around the bottom says, "Don't design clothes, design magic." It's a combination of quotes by Ralph Lauren and Jackson Rathbone. Ralph Lauren said "Don't design clothes, design dreams." However, J.Action Rathbone (who plays Jasper Hale in the Twilight Saga) said Tori's ties that she made and gave him and his band members "were made of magic" when she gave them to him. Therefore, "Don't design dreams, design magic."

That's the IADT logo by the way...little extra time for perfection.

Mine:

This is my mug. The quote says, "Let's make someone's favorite movie." It's a quote from a tv show. It's a camera because I'm a Film major...technically, Digital Media and Animation.

Meghan's:

Meghan's was a music mug because she loves music and isnt going to IADT.

"The Music Lives On" is the slogan of the Spencer Bell Legacy Project. The quote around the bottom is a SB quote that says, "Don't lose hope, and never, ever give in."

The Spencer Bell Legacy symbol- it's a tie-dyed music note because he died of Adrenal Cancer, which is a rare cancer (the tie-dyed ribbons are for rare cancers). At the last Legacy Concert, Dr. Hammer, who heads up the research for rare cancers at The Univ. of Michigan, announced that they haven't had money to have any advancements in the treatment since the 1950s. The last one to be approved was a pestiside. But thanks to the Spencer Bell Legacy Project and those like 100 Monkeys and Tin Tin Can who have Legacy concerts, they've had money to make advancements in the treatment.

Mom's again:

This is my mom's mug. The "a" that is the alpha letter. We call her the alpha because of the alpha of the wolf pack (as seen in New Moon). What the alpha says goes...it's orders cannot be disobeyed. You know the 4pack obeys the alpha.

Initials on the other side. These are her favorite colors by the way.

Ellen Denerges':

This mug is one we're sending to Ellen D to try and get her to have 100 Monkeys on her show...hence the monkey with the 'J.Rathbone like' hat and the banana handle.

The quote on the handle is by Spencer Bell. Spencer was a friend of the guys in 100 Monkeys. He died when he was 20 from Adrenal Cancer. 100 Monkeys now have legacy concerts, along with some other artists, to raise money for research for rare cancers.

A quote from the song that 100 Monkeys made up about Ellen at Tori, Lindsey and Meghan's request during the improv session of the Spencer Bell Legacy Concert.

This is the bananager. I put him on the inside for fun. The bananager is their friend, and one of their managers, Marty. Marty where's a huge banana outfit sometimes.

Bertha's:

Bertha's "Happy Bertha Day" tile for the bag of Bertha.

Speaking of Bertha, we're in Nashville! YAY! Breathe in the awesomeness!

Pooh Stick Adventures

2010-04-27T21:47:00.000-07:00

Today I went with a few of my friends to the Riverwalk here in Tuscaloosa. I haven't seen these girls in a while and it was so good to hang out with them. However, we hit a little bump in the evening when we decided to play Pooh Sticks on one of the bridges. It was my idea and I was so excited as I gathered up sticks for all of us. We counted to 3 and dropped our sticks off a bridge. This bridge went over a creek that branched off the river and into a sewage pipe that ran under the road on the other side. Well we dropped our sticks and ran to the other side. While waiting for our sticks all of a sudden we see something fall to the water. Kim, our driver, dropped her keys on accident! Luckily it was in the creek and not in the river! However, this fairly deep for a creek- at least waist high. We scaled the side of the bank- which was not too easy for the three of us in flip flops and with my ankle- which still isn't completely healed since spraining it in Nashville. Anyways Kim made it all the way down-waist deep in water searching for the keys with a stick. After several desperate minutes and 4 people searching from 4 angles, Kim spotted them and managed to get them with a long stick. It was quite the adventure.
Tonight's quote of the night comes from this adventure.
"Go ahead Kim! In Narnia the water was probably dirty too!"

My little buddy, Sterfry

2010-04-27T21:37:00.000-07:00

Bethany said I got mad cause she needed to put up pictures...which is a bit on the dramatic side but I did want her to put some up(you know how the oldest kids are- so dramatic. Glad I'm a legit even-headed middle child). So here he is!
Isn't he the most precious little boy you've ever seen??? He's getting sooo big! I love this kid!
He now is walking and talking a lot more. He still calls me "hah, hah, hah" :)

So Long Insecurity

2010-04-25T15:29:00.000-07:00

To spice up my blog- which is in the lacking, here's "Sundays with Bethany."

"First of all if you are looking for cute Sterling pics this is not your post. BUT I would encourage you to stick around.

I just got back from Woodstock, GA. The girls in my Monday night small group loaded up one of the girls' minivan and headed down to Georgia Friday night to be up and at 'em early this morning to see Beth Moore. She was doing a live simulcast to 400 something locations, with 300,000 women tuning in.

We stayed up late last night, were up at the crack of dawn this morning, and drove a lot of hours, we talked, we laughed, and even patted some damp eyes. Needless to say, like James Spann right now, I would love to be going to bed, but I must process. (He is having a hard time tonight, he must have been on the air all day here).

Sidenote - I must add that typing with painted fingernails is much more fun than typing with Plain Jane ones. I don’t normally paint my nails because I hate when they start chipping after about a day, but this polish is lasting a while. I am really enjoying my dark purple fingers dancing across the keyboard. (I made fun of my very stylish sister for painting her nails black, and like so many things you say you will never do, I am now convinced that it is cute.)

Back to Beth. I have to admit, I have not always been her biggest fan. I tend to shy away from what is "popular" in Christian circles today. And let’s be honest, Beth Moore fans can be a bit obsessed. However, I am learning why. I have done some of her studies in the past and even read part of one of her books, but none of that compares to listen to her darlin' voice and seeing her incredible passion for the word. Since I have been here, the girls in our small group have done a couple of her studies along with the videos. And I must say actually hearing and seeing her, I understand why everyone loves her! I mean I don't agree with every single thing she says theologically, but you have to admit she knows WHAT she believes and WHY she believes it. I covet her passion for studying and memorizing the scripture, and as any good Texan girl would say "She LUVS her some Jesus!"

Back to the day at hand. The topic for today was "So Long Insecurity." She also has a book that I just ordered by the same name. I love the subtitle "you've been a bad friend to us." How true! We hold onto our insecurities as if they were our dear friends.

What a topic for women! And might I mention again that 300,000 women studied this along with us today. That is the size of Tampa, FL (or at least according to the last census).

It is so amazing how the Lord works! I am so glad that He is completely sovereign over all creation!! Because I have to tell you that if you asked me what we were going to hear Beth Moore speak about I probably wouldn't have known. It was going to be a fun weekend away with the girls. We were going to hear Beth speak and as He always does, the Lord would show up. But I had NO expectations about this weekend.

Providentially, the past week or two, the Lord has really been showing me the areas of my life in which I find my security. Honestly, if you asked me on most days I would say that I was a pretty secure person. But how much of that security is being sucked from those around me? Do I have to answer that question?

Beth used a great illustration today of us walking around with an empty cup asking those around us to fill it. How many times to I go to my husband and try to get him to fill that cup up? It's not that I haven't always known that he can't. Believe me I do! I know, and have been taught since I was young, that no person or thing can fill you. Nothing can make me full but Christ. But as she reminded us today from our text, Ephesians 4, we have to "Remember what you were taught.” This week Christ put my men in their right place, I pray that they will stay there. What a great lesson going into today.

What if as women we no longer listened to the world? What if we really did find ALL our security in Christ?
Not being able to fit into by pre-pregnancy clothes? In CHRIST
Not in the way my house looks? In CHRIST
Not in finding something cute to wear? In CHRIST
Not in my husband? In CHRIST
Not in my son? In CHRIST
Not in the idea of having more children? In CHRIST
Not in the idea of being the best mom? In CHRIST
Not in the thought of raising godly children for the kingdom? In CHRIST

Beth continued to challenge us today to not only find our security in Christ for ourselves but for those women we come in contact with. To say that Beth was shocked by the number of women tuning in was an understatement. But we were moved to tears to think of the impact of 300,000 Christian women finding security in Christ alone. It isn’t a suggestion by Beth Moore to make us “feel good” (she’s not into that anyway) but a command from our Savior.

I loved that she challenged us to do it for our daughters if not for ourselves. I don’t have a daughter, maybe one day. But in that moment I thought of my dear Sterling’s future wife (if that is the Lord’s will). What will our relationship look like one day if I look only to Christ for my security, not my son? What if I don’t thrust my insecurities as a mother on her young shoulders? What if she keeps a better house than me, cooks better than me, has better taste than me, has children that are more well-behaved than mine were, loves Jesus more than mine did at their age, has the affection and respect of my son more than me? Then I will REJOICE; she is far more precious than jewels!! (I am getting weepy all over.)

Then I thought of my spiritual daughters. The Lord has entrusted some precious girls into my care. (I bought Beth’s book for them after all.) I began to think of how to communicate these truths to them now while they are living daily in an environment that breeds insecurity like kudzu – high school and even worse jr. high! Lord help them! (I sound like BM, ooh those aren’t the best initials) I know it is up to Him to produce fruit in their hearts, but I don’t want them to have the excuse that they can’t “remember what you were taught”

Women, we MUST break up with insecurity; it has been a bad friend to us!"

LOST Live. SPOILER ALERT

2010-04-13T22:20:00.000-07:00

Live blog during Lost

PREVIOUSLY ON LOST.

EVERYBODY LOVES HUGO.

OFF ISLAND

What is this powerpoint about Hugo? Is it business related or a funeral? Is it Miles' dad?

Whew business. PALEONTOLOGY. Miles' dad. Wonder if Charlotte is there.

Aw everone loves Hurley.

He has cool dinosuar trophy.

Mom looks unhappy. Mom tries to get Hurley to date. Moms are all the same. (not Vicki :D)

Mom sets up with Rosalita

ON ISLAND

Hurley puts flower on Libs grave and talks to her.

She doesn't talk back. Aw Hurley :(

He tells her he can speak to dead people- he wishes she talked to him.

Illana interrupts. Gosh Illana.

They're going to get dynamite. Hurley says...great... :-/

He reminisces with Illana

he hears voices

michael?

MICHAEL.

Hugo's not happy. Everyone loves Hugo but Hugo doesn't love everyone

Michael says hes here to stop them from killing everyone

LLLLOOOSSSTTT

COMMERCIAL. ipad- not as cool as the hp version- just saying.

I love dvr.

Is Michael or whatever on Unlocke's side. If Jacob said to do it that's probably the way to go.

BACK. ON ISLAND

Michael and Hurley stare down

Jack comes up. Casually asks What dead person you talking to?

Hugo lies.

Jack doesn't care.

OFF ISLAND:

Hurley has been stood up by Rosalita but Libby comes up.

ah Libby.

He thinks she's Rosalita. "You're pretty."

Such a gentleman.

He figures it out. This isnt his blind date

She saw him from across the room and recognizees.

She says he's her soul mate.

Libby's crazy?

Hugo's shocked

Hugo leaves and sees Libs leave.

SANTA ROSA METAL HEALTH INSTITUTE bus

ON ISLAND

Illana got the dynamite

Hugo steps in "that's not a good idea...that's unstable"

Illana needs to be careful.

Illana yells.

Illana has to protect

Illana slams down bag

Illana BLOWS UP.

told you.

UNLOCKE CAMP:

Skate are mad that Unlocke isnt getting Jin back.

Unlocke is creepy.

Unlocke says they're waiting for their friends, that's the only way they're getting off the island- together.

Hmm.

Sayid comes back wants to talk to Unlocke alone

That's never good.

Bet Des is nearby.

Desmond is tied to a tree.

COMMERCIAL

ON ISLAND OTHER CAMP

Richard wants to get more dynomite.

Hugo looks through stuff. Finds a book. Is it in another language?

He finds a something in a old bag.

Nikki and Paublo's diamonds?

Now hurley thinks Richard is right about going to get more dynomite.

Jack is confused.

"I think you should trust me Jack."

oh yeah the diamonds are buried with them.

OFF ISLAND

Hugo walks into a cluckity cluk and demands a box of family size

He gets it.

He sees and yells at Des. Des is waiting in line. Is his number 42?

Hugo's depressed.

Des sits down.

Yep Hugo's depressed.

He tells Des about Libby

She's crazy.

Des: Did you believe her?

Hurley: yeah

Des: Go with your gut.

Hey maybe she was sane in another life brotha.

Des is number 42.

ON ISLAND

Des meets Unlocke

Des assures Locke he wont run brotha

and answers his questions

Why did Widdy bring you back?

ask him.

How do you know what he blasted you with?

experience

Do you know who I am?

of course you're John Locke

NO HE'S NOT.

Unlocke sends Sayid back and takes a walk with Des

Not smart Des.

OTHER GROUP

Heads to Black Rock

Ben's being a creepy again...He's got that manipulating look on.

"The island was done with Illana. She blows up. What happens to us?" He wonders aloud.

Where's hugo?

Hugo runs out of Black Rock and it blows up.

Did he know a short cut?

He says he's protecting it.

COMMERCIAL

Happy Town looks not so happy

ON ISLAND

Richard freaks out

Miles walks up.

Miles: why?

Hurley: Michael told me to: No dynamite..no blowing up

Miles: who is Michael?

Hurley: One of the dead peaple who comes back to yell at him

Miles: And you just do what they say?

Hurley: Uh Yeah

OFF ISLAND

Hurley tries to see Libby

She has issues with reality and Doc thinks it's not a good idea

Hugo bribes him with 100 K for a narley rec room

Hugo waits for her in the room where he and Lenny(?) played checkers.

He says he doesnt remember but questions her

Wont make sense.

Try me.

She saw a commercial with him and all these memories of another life hit her.

Woah that's weird.

There was a plane crash and she was on an island. they knew each other and liked each other.

Hmm...Charlie and Des experience without life threatening experience?

She thinks he's been here too- at the mental hospital

Hugo cant remember her.

Sorry.

She's crazy, but she's got guys

She's here voluntarlily

Hugo asks her on a date

She'd love to.

aww.

ON ISLAND

Unlocke and Des take a hike- literally.

Unlocke sees a little boy and Des can see him.

Is it him? Is it Jacob? Will we find out? not now. Unlocke wont tell.

OTHER GROUP

Richard asks if there are explosives in dharmaville

Ben says yeah

Hurley says no- dont go. Jacob says not to. Hurley lied.

They split.

Ben and Miles follow Richard.

Jack, Sun and Lapidus follow Hurley

Really Jack?

They split up

Hurley's the leader now- they're going to talk to Unlocke

COMMERCIAL

Sun who still can't speak English writes "did we make a mistake?" Lapidus thinks maybe.

Hurley admits to Jack he didnt see Jacob he just wants them to come with him.

Jack knows.- Did ya Jack?

He has always wanted to fix it and he cant ever...maybe he's supposed to let go.

Hurley throws in "unless that gets us killed."

Sun and Lapedis catch up

Conversation ends

WHISPERS!

Light Bulb.

Hurley knows what they are?!

He goes off by himself for a second.

Ah-ha! There's Michael.

The whispers are the ones who cant move on- like Michael. who are stuck cause of what he did.

What about undead Walt in season 2ish?

Michael apologizes. aw how presh.

OFF ISLAND

Hugo and Libby date. on a beach. with a picnic.

It seems familiar- like a date they've never had.

Hugo has some self image problems.

They kiss.

Hurley flashes and remembers the island

He doesnt decides she isn't crazy.

Desmond watches like a creeper but he's not one.

COMMERCIAL

ON ISLAND

Unlocke and Desmond arrive somewhere.

at the well.

He'll push you in Des, dont get too close!

UL: How old's the well?

D: Old.

UL: ya think? yeah. dug it by hand

D: must have been thirsty

UL: just looking for answers.

Unlocke says Widdy's after power. I dont think I believe him. Why? he's made of lies.

D: That's why you brought me here?

Me: no. he's going to push you in.

UL: why aren't you afraid

dL what's the point in being afraid.

Unlocke pushes him in.

told you Des.

Unlocke goes back.

Tells sayid they dont have to worry about him anymoree.

Skate wants to know where he's been

Hurley walks out of the jungle.

Saywer catch phrase

Hurley confronts Unlocke.

He says we've got weapons you've got weapons, I dont want anyone getting hurt.

Unlocke promises.

Dont trust him.

Kate looks for jack.

Kate sees jack.

Kate smiles.

Kate dies.

Man. nevermind.

Kate smiles.

OFF ISLAND

Des watches real John Locke in wheelchair at his school.

Ben confronts Des, why are you creepin?

Who is Ben to check on creepers?

Looking for a school for my kid- his name- Charlie

Ben leaves.

Des looks mad- as in Mad Hatter mad-

Des speeds up.

Des slow down!

Des there's Locke

Des sees Locke

Des looks even more Mad Hatter Mad

Des runs over Locke.

Des flees the scene

LOST

bad robot.

new promo: willy wonka style

at least Des is alive in the well.

Nashville

2010-04-12T12:33:00.000-07:00

Today I was walking down the mundane, gray, boring halls at school and found myself feeling down. It's been a pretty good day and there's no reason for this, it's just the depressing atmosphere that school has. Almost immediately I started thinking about IADT in comparison. I could see myself walking down the rich, deep yellow halls lined with creations of those I've come to know. Instead of hurrying past a small bit of color on the wall as I pass the "wall of nurses," I could see myself stopping and looking at the newest pictures from the photography students and admiring their beautiful creations. Instead of passing mundane class rooms that are dark and dreary I could see myself passing bright classrooms full of sewing machines or full of computers (mac daddy ones at that!) with huge windows to view the hall and outside. I walked outside and I thought to myself, "Self, today would be a Centennial Park day." After class I would drive the six miles to downtown and spend a good hour in the shade of tree studying people before work.
I am so thankful for my time in Tuscaloosa and so thankful for clear guidance to Nashville. I will miss several things about Tuscaloosa- the people mainly- but I cant help but feel that anticipation and excitement that sets in right before something big happens that you've been looking forward to for a long time. With that said...
Only 30 days until the move home, then onto Nashville! Only 85 until I walk the halls of the International Academy of Design and Technology! Praise the Lord, He changed my heart and has laid before me a dream in the wonderful city of Nashville!

Pride and Prejudice

2010-04-09T12:22:00.000-07:00

Quote of the Day:

I love Pride and Prejudice and as it was on today here's your quote:

"As it is I wouldn't dance with him for all of Darbyshire, let alone the miserable half."

Just a Short Thought

2010-04-08T22:06:00.000-07:00

I dont usually like to try new music out. I dont like listening to songs I dont know. However there are three artists that I am very glad someone made me listen to. They are three of my favorite artists. Who are these three artists? Joshua Raiden, Owl City and Jack Johnson. I LOVE them. If fact I'm going to listen to them right now before I go to sleep. Go check them out!

Owl City's 'Vanilla Twilight'

2010-04-06T22:20:00.000-07:00

One of my friends had the following quote as her status today. I thought it was funny so I thought I'd share...

"God made Saturn. He liked it so He put a ring on it."

Rejoice Friend!

2010-04-03T23:38:00.000-07:00

"Blessed be the LORD, who has not left you this day without a Redeemer!" ~ Ruth 4:14

Not too long ago my grandfather and great uncle turned 80. My family went down to Lake Santa Fe to celebrate with them. I'm not sure why but the first night we were in Florida we had to stay at one of our relative's old house. We have never gone and not stayed at the lake but for some reason we had to that night. Anyways, we get out to this house and it is literally in the middle of the woods. It wouldn't have been a big deal but we didnt reach the house until after a couple of wrong turns (down one way dirt roads surrounded by woods) and several jokes about how this always happens before someone dies in a scary movie. I remember going there once as a child and thinking how cool the house was, however that was before we had been lost in the dark and before I had seen quite a few scary movies.

You know the houses that are in scary movies- they're modeled after this house. Not only is it a little house in the middle of the woods, but in the living room there are huge glass doors that cover one wall and that's right- they look out into the woods. It had the air of being uninhabited as it hadnt been lived in, for quite some time. I dont always sleep well in new places anyways, and needless to say I didnt sleep at all that night. I dont know if you've ever stayed or lived in a house in the middle of the woods but night is dark and it is quiet. There is no light from the moon and stars pouring in your window, and there are no sounds of late night cars outside. This was how that night was. Then on top of this, there is a little bit of fear mixed in. This fear is thanks to all the scary movies that you watched as a stupid teenager which you haven't thought about since you watched them, but of course, now, it's hard to think about much else. With the three of these things combined it's hard to describe the anticipation of dawn.

But then, there is the sigh of relief and a sort of joy when the first light finally trickles into your room. You've been waiting now for about five hours for this moment. You realize how stupid all those movies are and how stupid it was that you couldn't sleep. I don't know if you've ever That morning I was relieved when the light finally came in and I could not have been more ready to be back at Santa Fe.

That night was a dark night, with fear mingled in, but it had nothing compared to 2000 years ago. While I thought those five hours dragged on, I'm sure it was nothing compared to the time in between Jesus' death on the cross and resurrection. Those were the world's darkest moments as the world held its breath waiting to see if the Messiah had actually been slain. However, though those moments were dark, the morning did come and with it came forth the Hope of the nations.

Today as you gather with your families to celebrate the resurrection of Christ, praise the Lord that He took on night to give us day. Rejoice friend, He has not left you this day without a Redeemer!

Chuck: The Puking Easta BUNny.

2010-04-02T22:48:00.000-07:00

Every year we go over to my brother-in-law's family's house for Easter. They live right across town and we have been doing it way before Bethany and Alex were the Vaughns. Alex has two older brothers. Each brother is married and each brother has two kids. They usually come too. The afternoon begins with pictures. This takes FOREVER usually because we have to get The Vaughns all together, the Dale Vaughns, the Max Vaughns and the Alex Vaughns. Then we have the Winters (color coordinated of course), the grandparents with Sterling, each aunt (Tori, Meghan and myself) with Sterling, and usually a girls picture. We have learned to do it fast because the quicker we are, the quicker we can eat. Then comes our Easter meal. The meal is good, but the best part of the meal is Chuck. Chuck is Jane's creamer. Jane, Alex's mom, goes all out in decorating for holidays. Every Easter she brings out her Easter creamer. It's a bunny and the milk comes out from, you guessed it, his mouth. So every year Chuck the bunny pukes milk into our coffee. It's become a favored tradition....right up there with the Golden Candle ;)

Meet Chuck:

Oh yes, I forgot...Chuck has developed quite a following here in Sylacauga. Around Easter every year people, even people who dont eat with us, put him up as their profile picture on facebook. This year he even has his own fan page.

Funny but a little sad

2010-04-02T22:17:00.000-07:00

I just thought I'd share a quick story. Monday I as at Barnes and Noble. A guy and girl who looked like they were in high school walked up to the Twilight table and picked a book. The guy looked up at the girl and said, "Wuthering Heights, isn't this the last book in the Twilight series." I know what your thinking. He did NOT just ask that! He did. However, the girl clarified for him. She said, "No, the last Twilight book is Breaking Dawn. Wuthering Heights is one of those old books, it's like a classic or something." What is the world coming to???

Although this is a little sad and a little funny, they aren't entirely at fault. They should know that Wuthering Heights is in fact classic literature and the author's name on it was Emily Bronte instead of Stephanie Meyer. However, it was on the Twilight table and someone has decided to capitalize on the success of Twilight. For those who haven't ever seen a Twilight book, here are the covers of each book in the series:

and here is how someone has decided to resale Wuthering Heights, Pride and Prejudice and Romeo and Juliet:

Now if you know me, you know I like Twilight as much as the next person, but Pride and Prejudice doesn't need Twilight. It can stand on it's own two feet, thank you.

Top 5 Academy Award Moments

2010-03-08T10:32:00.000-08:00

Here are my Top 5 Academy Award Moments:

5. Tribute to John Hughes
4. UP winning Best Animated Feature and Best Original Score
3. Kristen Stewart shocking fans in a beautiful dress...there's a first time for everything
2. Sandra Bullock winning Best Actress for her role in The Blind Side
1. Kathryn Bigelow being the first Academy Award Winning director and beating out her ex, James Cameron, for the biggest award on National TV...haha. Then right after, her movie, The Hurt Locker beating out his movie, Avatar for Best Picture.

2010-02-23T08:45:00.000-08:00

Today is Jameson's birthday. I cannot believe that he is 16! Next thing we know he is going to be getting married! I am so proud of Jamis. He loves the Lord and loves people. He is truly turning into a godly young man. For those of you who dont know Jameson, you really are missing out. He by far one of the funniest and coolest people I have ever met. I am so grateful that he is my brother and cannot wait to see what the Lord has in store for his life. Happy Birthday Jameson!

16 years ago today!

Siblings 16 years ago

little Jamis

Cousins

Siblings 11 years ago

I couldn't help but put this picture....Jamie and Jamis at Mackenzie's wedding

Jamis and me on Easter 08

Jamis and me in Honduras 08 (I was sick of course...not high)

Siblings almost 1 year ago

LOST Valentines

2010-02-16T08:32:00.001-08:00

So I realize Valentine's Day is over, but today is LOST day so I thought I'd share these LOST Valentines made by ABC. I thought they were pretty funny.

The Bittersweet Call to Wait

2010-02-14T11:55:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day and singleness. Ah, where do I begin? This day for so many people is filled with bitterness. I'll be the first to admit it's not one of my favorites, especially during this time in my life. For most Christians, especially girls, the call to wait on the sovereignty of the Lord in falling in love is a tough call to follow. If I've heard one sermon on singleness/dating, I've heard a thousand. I've grown up hearing how we, as Believers, are called to 'kiss dating goodbye' and 'let God write our love stories.' I have seen story after story unfold that beautifully glorified it's Author. Growing up under the teachings of my mom, Aunt Teresa and Kelly Akers, and in a youth group with leaders like KJ, Katie, Bethany, Alex and many others, dating wasn't even really an issue for me. Waiting was the 'cool' thing. I was taught at a young age to pray for and love my husband. I am so thankful for this time in my life as the Lord use these means of grace to protect me from so many things. As I've gotten older, and this future is not so distant, being patient and content has become harder. Waiting is hard, but it is worse when you wait with the wrong focus. If you are waiting with your hope in the end result, your time of waiting will be miserable and the result will be disappointing. But if you are waiting with your hope set in the Christ not only will you not be disappointed with whatever He has sovereignly ordained for you, but your time of waiting will be sweet as you learn to depend of the Lord for your needs and satisfaction. This time goes from being miserable and wasteful to a time of bittersweetness, as though we long for a family, we find the sweetness in trusting and resting in the Lord.
Believer, and single friends, dont waste this time being miserable. Instead use this time to magnify the all-satisfying worth of Christ and display this worth to the nations! He is better than anything this world has to offer!

2010-02-14T11:10:00.000-08:00

Over the past few weeks, I have kept my eyes open for any Twilight Valentines. What's more romantic than Edward Cullen? ;) Much to my disappointment, they do not exist! I saw Hannah Montana, Jonas Brothers, Toy Story, Tinkerbell, etc but no Twilight Valentines anywhere. Today though I was thinking about it and it's probably a good thing. After all, just what would a Valentine from Edward Cullen say?

Happy Valentine's Day!