It's the Last Day of 2014!

          I don't really have anything terribly exciting to write about, so I'm going to do the cliche thing and write about the past year with the help of a few journal prompts.

What were the three best things that happened last year?

          This is weird to think about because this year I have been both a high school senior and a college freshman. I have been two different people. The person I was in high school would never have applied for the Ireland trip. I mean, she could barely handle going to a community college, much less another country. Regardless I will look at this as the me I am now, considering it's the most accurate at the moment. So first, getting accepted for the Ireland trip, of course. That's easily the biggest thing on my list. Second would have to be going to college. When I first started, I was terrified. I can't even begin to describe to you the overwhelming social anxiety and insecurity I felt. But now, I am much better off for it. I have definitely grown as a person. Lastly, getting the fourth gold cup at St. Cecilia's Music Festival. I had been working towards it for twelve years, and I finally got it. Twelve years! That was one of the best moments of my life. 

         Now, it was very difficult to pick only three, so I picked some honorable mentions. I was accepted to WMU's music school. Even though I didn't end up going there, it was a huge accomplishment. I graduated from high school, which I wasn't terribly excited for (I'm not a fan of change), but it was a lot of fun. At my last piano recital, I got to play two movements of a Beethoven piece and a concerto with my piano teacher. It was easily the best recital I've ever had. It was kind of my shining moment as a musician (I am usually not the one in the spotlight). I had a solo in my last high school play, which I'd never had anything close to before. I got a real job and met some amazing coworkers! I think my favorite part of this past year is that, even though it had many lasts and it was very bittersweet, it also had so many firsts that I never expected to have. All in all, I'd say it was a pretty good year.

What were the three worst things that happened last year?

          Not really something I'd like to think about, but of course, it has to be done. The worst thing I can think of so far is my panic attacks. I've had them before, but they've gotten increasingly worse and more frequent as the year went on. Another bad thing would be the parting of ways. You know, after high school, you just sort of lose touch with one another. In a way, I'm happy it happened. But it's also rather sad to think about, as if the last four years of trying to make relationships didn't matter in the end. The last worst thing I can think of was Valentine's weekend last year. It wasn't so much that I didn't have a guy, it's just that I was completely alone when I thought that, for once, I would have at least some friends to be with that day. Needless to say, I was so distraught that I ran five miles on a treadmill whilst staring at a clock. (I run best when I'm upset). I've mostly gotten over that day, and the good and bad effects it had on me. The two people that I thought would be there for me that day are easily two of my closest friends now, so there are no hard feelings there. However, it's the amplified insecurity and loneliness and hurt that I experienced that day that I still struggle with. 

What did you learn about yourself in 2014?

          As previously stated, I am a different person now than I was at the beginning of the year. Regardless, I'm still me, even if I am a different version of me. I learned that it's okay to fail sometimes. I learned that I actually am pretty smart. I learned that, while it's okay to spend time in the world of books, you shouldn't take up residence there. You need to interact with real people too. I learned that, although I feel like an inherently selfish person, I actually do think about others more than I think I do. I learned that it's okay to be sad. I learned that I don't have to feel guilty for talking to people's boyfriends. It's okay to be friends with them too. I learned, with the help of some good friends, that I'm actually kind of an okay person. I learned that some people actually want to know me, for who I am, and not who I think they would rather know. (Did that even make sense?) But, one of the biggest things I learned, and am still learning, is that "I'm bad, and that's good. I will never be good and that's not bad. There's no one I'd rather be, than me."

Where do you see yourself one year from now?

          I'm pretty sure I will be a different person, again, in a year. I'm going to go through some big changes before this year is over. I'm going to be in IRELAND! for three weeks, which will be a life changing experience for me. I'm also going to be moving out next fall and living in a dorm, which probably should have been something I experienced this year, but oh well. Or I could be the exact same person. Who knows? I suppose I'll let you know next year. 

         I hope you're all safe tonight, and have a happy 2015!

"Your past is always your past. Even if you forget it, it remembers you." -What Happened to Goodbye by Sarah Dessen

It's a News Kind of Day

          Well, I'm back! And boy, do I have a lot to tell you! It's been a very busy few weeks (when was the last time I posted?) I have some good news and a bit of slightly bad news. I'll start with the bad and work up to the really good.
          Slightly bad: I almost lost my forever alone status. I came very, very close to going on a date (a first!). At first, I was really excited and happy and downright giddy about it. But then reality slapped me pretty hard and I realized that I didn't actually have the feelings for the person, but rather the idea of having a person to be with. I was terribly stressed and anxious about all of it, because I didn't know how to tell him that. However, him being the great guy that he is, saw that it wasn't what either of us needed and ended it all for me. So that's the bad news. See, it's only slightly bad. And it's only bad because it forced me to look at myself and figure our what I want and need. (But isn't that good news? Yes and no. I'll tell you why not when I finish that writing challenge. Which I feel like I can do now. Well, no...not right now, not today. But in the near future.)

          Good news part one: I was just in Punta Cana for six days. I didn't bring my phone on the trip and there was no WiFi (Well, you could buy some for $60 a day. No, thank you!). So I had six days of freedom from the outside world and let me tell you, it was great. Just me, the beach, and a book (and my family). It was a very cleansing week for me, considering how rough the few weeks before had been. (You know, with the whole slightly bad news thing, what I'll write about in my last writing challenge, and exams.) Let me tell you a bit about my trip. I discovered that I was not meant to be in a plane. Especially very early in the morning or very late at night (when it's dark out). Claustrophobia and acrophobia are a poor combination when you're above the clouds in a very crowded and cramped plane. Let's just say it was a very long 12 hour journey to get to Punta Cana. Getting there, however, was worth it. The water is so blue and the sky is so blue and the sun was so warm. I could have stayed there much longer than a week. I think I spent three days in a row just lounging on the beach, reading and napping, with occasional breaks to jump in the pool or the ocean. More often than not, I jumped in the pool because I also discovered that I'm a bit of a baby when it comes to the ocean. Or rather, I'm a spoiled Michigander that has the Great Lakes and they don't taste like salt. I could not stand the taste of the ocean. If there had been shells or less seaweed, I may have been tempted to go in it more. But as it was, the pool worked just swell for me. While I was there I had my first drink (it was alright, but I didn't like the aftertaste), took a picture with a monkey and a half naked man (not out of my own free will), and met a guy who has the unfortunate, yet uncanny, appearance of Justin Bieber (I asked...he's not Justin Bieber, but he is from Canada! There are a surprisingly large amount of Canadians in Punta Cana). I also met a woman who was British/Canadian (she moved to Canada) and she had been to Ireland several times. She told me a lot about the politics between the North and the South and about how beautiful it is there. She also told me that half of Giant's Causeway is in Scotland. Who knew? I didn't! She got to tell me all these cool things about her time in Ireland and you know what? I got to tell her that...

I'M GOING TO IRELAND!!!!

          Just look at this beautiful country! And I get to go there! Guys, I'm going to IRELAND!!!!! I can't tell you how ridiculously excited I am that I was accepted. I found out on December 6th and I've been trying to sell scarves to raise money to go and I'm working two jobs and teaching piano along with that. So I've been very busy between making scarves, piano lessons, my job, and school (however we're on break now, which is nice). I'm just so excited that I actually have the opportunity to go to the one place that I am just dying to go to. And it's for Literature! I just can't believe I'm going. I am so blessed to have this opportunity. 

          Guys. I'm going to Ireland!

"To live is the rarest thing in the world. Most people exist, that is all." -Oscar Wilde (In case you didn't know, Oscar Wilde is one of the authors I'll be studying in Ireland :o)

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Today I ran the Turkey Trot 5k, which I didn't exactly trained for. I ran 2.5 miles on Tuesday, but that doesn't count as training. That was just a test to see if I would die trying to run this thing. Thankfully, I didn't (I actually ran about 4 minutes faster than I thought I would). Speaking of thankfulness, today I am going to compile a list of things I am thankful for, you know, because this is a holiday specifically for giving thanks (and not gluttony, as some would believe).

I am thankful for:

• My family...they really are the best. I love 'em to death and I am so thankful that I have a good relationship with all of them, parents included.
• My wonderful friends. You guys know who you are. I wouldn't be the person I am without weirdos like you to be there every step of the way. 
• My dog. She's getting up there in years and I am going to be very sad the day she passes. I've grown up with her. 
• My job. I am so thankful to have a job that I actually like to go to. I never think 'oh man, I have to go to work again. I just went yesterday!' It's actually for school that I think that. 
• My legs. Even if I don't run that often, I still actually kind of like to do it. I'm thankful that my legs are strong enough to run a 5k without training. (I must say, I'm pretty lucky)
• My fingers. I don't know what I would do if I couldn't play piano. Whenever I'm stressed, I go to the piano...when I'm sad, I play piano. If I'm really happy, I play piano. Basically, if I feel anything, I play my piano. If I could take it everywhere I went, I would.
• Being able to grow up with Harry Potter. I know it's kind of lame, but I am thankful for it. They're great books to read regardless of when you read them, but I'm thankful that I got to be a part of the Potter generation.
• The delicious strawberry salad that my grandma makes every year for Thanksgiving. Oh my word, I could eat it all day.
• The seasons. As much as I complain about Michigan winters, I'm glad we have them. Christmas wouldn't be the same without snow, just as football season wouldn't be the same without the changing leaves (not that I'm really a fan of football anyway, but I do like the wings that come with it!)
• My childhood. I had a wonderful childhood, which is more than can be said for most people. My childhood was filled with playing outside, neighborhood capture the flag (usually played with shoes rather than flags), lemonade stands, catching crayfish, and creek parties (campfire with the whole neighborhood at our creek, plenty of food to go around!)
• Where I live. My neighborhood is pretty much the ideal neighborhood. We lived in the country, but our houses weren't a mile apart and we only lived a mile from town (easy biking distance). There were plenty of kids to play with when I was younger and plenty of space to run. Our road is pretty useless unless you live on it, so there was minimal traffic. A creek ran behind all of our houses, which was also fun to play in. I just have a great neighborhood and I'm thankful for that.
• For my most faithful reader. I love you, Franco Fan. Thanks for reading. It's nice to know at least someone cares what I write. If I ever get a book published, your name is going to be the first one listed in the Author's Note at the end (and it's going to actually be your name too, not just 'Franco Fan')
• For all my other readers (if you're out there). I don't know if anyone else reads what I write. But if you do, thank you. And I hope you enjoy reading it.

I am thankful for quite a bit more, but this is all I'm going to put on my list. In other news, I am currently reading East of Eden. It's a bigger book than any of the others I've made reviews for and it's a slower read. So, I'm not really sure when you'll get your next review. I hope to finish it before December 16 though (I've got to set a deadline!) I hope everyone has a happy Thanksgiving. Until next time!

“The poor man shuddered, overflowed with an angelic joy; he declared in his transport that this would last through life; he said to himself that he really had not suffered enough to deserve such radiant happiness, and he thanked God, in the depths of his soul, for having permitted that he, a miserable man, should be so loved by this innocent being.” -Les Miserables by Victor Hugo

A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini

         As promised, here is my latest book review! I bet you're wondering why I am reading so much. (I'm putting up these reviews as I finish the books). I have a lot of spare time at work. A LOT of spare time. So, I do my homework...but I only have so much homework to do. Which means I have a significant amount of time to read...which is awesome! I haven't had this much time to read in quite awhile. Anyway, onto the review:

*Possible Spoilers*

A Thousand Splendid Suns
by Khaled Hosseini

Read: November 17, 2014
Published: November 25, 2008
Genre: Fiction/Historical Fiction
Series: NA

          Propelled by the same superb instinct for storytelling that made The Kite Runner a beloved classic, A Thousand Splendid Suns is at once an incredible chronicle of thirty years of Afghan history and a deeply moving story of family, friendship, faith, and the salvation to be found in love.

          Born a generation apart and with very different ideas about love and family, Mariam and Laila are two women brought jarringly together by war, by loss and by fate. As they endure the ever escalating dangers around them-in their home as well as in the streets of Kabul-they come to form a bond that makes them both sisters and mother-daughter to each other, and that will ultimately alter the course not just of their own lives but of the next generation. With heart-wrenching power and suspense, Hosseini shows how a woman's love for her family can move her to shocking and heroic acts of self-sacrifice, and that in the end it is love, or even the memory of love, that is often the key to survival.

          A stunning accomplishment, A Thousand Splendid Suns is a haunting, heartbreaking, compelling story of an unforgiving time, an unlikely friendship, and an indestructible love.  (Amazon.com)

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Why did you read this book?
I read The Kite Runner over a year ago. And, while I loved it, I never had any intention of reading Hosseini's other novels. This isn't exactly my genre. But then, my brother read it for his AP English class and he said it was very good (so good, that it's one of his favorites). My brother is not an avid reader, so when he says a book is good, it usually is. He told me that I should read it, but I dismissed the idea, because it wasn't 'my genre'. A week or two later, I saw a copy of it at a used book sale in pristine condition. It's not very often that you find a new book at a used book sale. So I bought it, thinking 'Fine! Fine. I'll just read the book'. And what a great decision that was.

What didn't you like about this book?
This is a tough one. I guess, my biggest problem with it was the language. I found myself just skipping over the foreign words that I didn't know and then being confused later on because I wasn't sure what was going on and I'd have to go back and figure out what it meant (context clues!) However, that is no fault of the author, but rather, mine. I guess I didn't really like the very beginning (it was kind of slow), but the beginning is essential to the rest of the book. It's just so hard to find something I didn't like!

What did you like about this book?
I loved the strong protagonists. What they went through is beyond my capability of imagining and they are far stronger than I'll ever be. I particularly loved how everything started coming together towards the end. You could make connections and think 'Oh! So that's why that was important in the first chapters!' There was one particular death that was so well written, with a quiet dignity, that I loved. I was sad, of course, when said character died, but the way they went was beautiful. I liked almost everything about this novel. It was beautifully written and the characters were so lifelike. Great job, Khaled Hosseini. Great job.

Three Unexpected Things: Titanic, the shovel, Aziza

Three Things This Book Does Not Feature: Love triangles, happy endings for everyone, in-depth politics

Would you recommend this book to a friend?
Yes. I would recommend it to all of my friends (although, I'm sure a few of them have already read it). I would, however, put an age limit on this. There are a few disturbing scenes that I wouldn't want my 13 year old sister to read. So, be warned.

Bottom Line: This book was fantastic and engaging. I read it in one sitting! And it's not a short book either. It's a hard book to start, but once you do, it's hard to stop. It keeps you on your toes and I, personally, really felt for the characters. This book almost made me cry. It was so close. And any book that makes me cry, is a good one. In my opinion anyway...But what are doing? Stop reading this and go read A Thousand Splendid Suns. Trust me, it's a good one.


"Of all the hardships a person had to face, none was more punishing than the simple act of waiting." -A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini

The One by Kiera Cass

Okay guys, I have officially finished the Selection Series (or rather, the ones that are out right now. From my understanding, there will be a completely unnecessary 4th book). And, now that I've read them, I have decided to do another book review, this time on the last book. I also decided not to do a review on the 2nd one because it was basically the same thing as the first. So, let's get started, shall we?

*Spoilers!*

The One
by Kiera Cass
Read: November 12-13, 2014
Published: May 6, 2014
Genre: YA, Dystopian
Series: The Selection Series

          The Selection changed America Singer's life in ways she never could have imagined. Since she entered the competition to become the next princess of Illéa, America has struggled with her feelings for her first love, Aspen—and her growing attraction to Prince Maxon. Now she's made her choice . . . and she's prepared to fight for the future she wants.

          Find out who America will choose in The One, the enchanting, beautifully romantic third book in the Selection series! 



 ____________________________________________________________________________

What didn't you like about this book?

My answer here is pretty much the same as it was for the first one. The characters in this novel are so immature and shallow, it was hard to read. There is a family drama between Kota and their father that is only mentioned a few times, but never really goes anywhere. It created a few scenes that were completely nonessential to the plot. Also, the northern rebels. For rebels who are apparently so supportive of Maxon, they seemed terribly secretive and a pain in the butt until they finally decided to let him know they supported him. And they were too cheerful for rebels. It didn't seem like they had a cause. They told us they did, but I didn't feel it. (Which is how this book works. We're told things, but we never feel it)

What did you like about this book?

This book was easily the best out of the series. America finally, finally, chose a guy (the one I predicted, of course). I was so happy when she decided who she loved, if only because I didn't have to read about her whining any more. And while I said the characters are immature and shallow, I still mean it, but they are less so than in the first two books. But my favorite part about this book? The ending. It was a very satisfying ending. It was happy, but not too much so that it's unrealistic. There was a bitter sweetness to the ending that I enjoyed. There was sadness and joy, which I really like in an ending. So, congratulations Kiera Cass, on giving me such a satisfying end that I can't even regret reading these anymore.

Three Unexpected Things:  Death, alliances, bad guy turned good

Three Things this Book Does not Feature: Complete happily ever after, traditional wedding, realistic rebels

Would you recommend this book to anyone?

See, I have mixed feelings about this one. I would recommend this book to a friend. I would not, however, recommend the first two. Which leaves us in a bit of a dilemma, doesn't it?

Bottom Line: This book was unexpectedly good. Had it not been for the first two in the series, I might even say that I actually enjoyed it. The end was so exciting that I started to speed read just so I could find out what happened. If the first two books had been the first 4 chapters or so of this book, it could have worked. As it is, the only good part of this series was the last book. Also, I think the love triangle was completely unnecessary to this series (even thought that's all it was about). It was glaringly obvious who she was going to choose throughout the novels. Now, if you ignored my warning above about spoilers, you better stop reading now. I am going to reveal some major spoilers right now. So stop reading unless you have read the book or have no intention of reading the book. Here I go, spoiling things: I am so happy that this author had the guts to kill off characters (some that we really could have loved had there been some character development...there was only one death I was truly sorry about), but not the audacity to kill of the voice of the series. (Yes, America lives.) However, I found the death of the king to be rather too convenient. I would have like to see Maxon actually stand up to him and win. I also found the romance between Aspen and Lucy to be too convenient, however, I was happy that Aspen and America could still be like family to each other. So I guess I have mixed feelings about that too. If you do decide to read the series, good luck. And in light of this fluffy Hunger Games series, 'May the odds be ever in your favor.'

"The best people all have some kind of scar." -The One by Kiera Cass

The Selection by Kiera Cass

So, The Selection by Kiera Cass was on one of my reading lists. I read it on Saturday and I just finished the second book (The Elite). I'm going to try to do a book review on it. I'm also going to be stealing a review format that I found on www.loveisnotatriangle.com, which is great. She did a review on The Bone Season and I absolutely loved it, so you should definitely check it out. Here it goes!

*Possible Spoilers*

The Selection
by Kiera Cass 
Read: November 8, 2014
Published: April 24, 2012
Genre: YA, Dystopian
Series: The Selection Series

          For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in a palace and compete for the heart of gorgeous Prince Maxon.

          But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.

          Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself—and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined. (From Amazon)

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I read this book because my sister read it and she has been begging me to read it so we can talk about it. Well, mostly because it's on one of my book lists and I wanted to be able to cross it off. But also because my sister wouldn't stop bothering me about it. Anyway, I finally picked the book up on Saturday and finished it the same day.

Was the book really that good?

No. I don't think it was. I finished it in a day because I am a fast reader and the book isn't very large. Also, I had nothing else to do that day. Don't get me wrong, it's a decent book. Maybe I'm just sick of dystopian novels. Or maybe I've been reading too many classics. Whatever it is, this book fell flat for me. It seemed very shallow without any real purpose. 

What didn't you like about the book?

The characters, particularly America. It's hard to read a book when you dislike the main character. There is little to no character development in any of the characters, except perhaps Maxon. The whole book (the second one as well) is centered on whether America will choose Maxon or Aspen. I'm afraid this series will be one big, mess of a love triangle. Even when the rebels attack, America is so preoccupied with which suitor she will choose. She is thinking this through DURING the attack. Which brings me to the next question:

What do you like about the book?

The Rebels. We know very little about them because two books were wasted focusing on America's inability to decide who she's in love with, but they fascinate me. We know that the northerners are less violent and hostile than the southerners and we know that they want the Selection to stop. But that's about it. I'm really hoping that the third novel will focus more on the rebels and what they are about and less on our protagonist's hormones.

Three unexpected things in The Selection: I can't even really think of any. This book was painfully predictable.

Three things this book does not feature: Magic (no werewolves or vampires), originality, plot

Would you recommend this book to anyone?

I would, but only if they wanted a beach read. If they were looking for a great book that left them preoccupied for days (which is what I've been looking for) I would suggest The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern or The Bone Season by Samantha Shannon.

Bottom line is, I didn't really like the book. I tried to put my negative feelings towards it into words and I think I was partially successful. However, someone else put it into much better words than I did. Thank you, Christina A. Marley for your review on amazon, because it completely summed up everything I didn't like about this novel. I also chose to use a quote from the novel as my quote for today.

"No, I'm not choosing him or you. I'm choosing me." -The Selection by Kiera Cass  

Books, again

          I know, I know...it's been about two weeks since I've been on here. If it makes you feel any better, I have thought about writing a lot. I just haven't actually gotten around to writing. But I'm doing now, so you can be happy now! Hooray!
           Who cares, you're thinking. We just want to read the last writing challenge. Well, I gave it some thought...and I'm not going to do the last writing challenge. At least not yet. I'm not ready for the challenge to be over and I'm not ready to write the last challenge (it's a tough one, okay?) So, don't worry, you will get the last one eventually, just not today. Probably not any time in this month either. But, I am doing something else exciting. I found another list (surprise) of 100 Books to Read in a Lifetime. As I read the books I'll keep you updated and maybe put on book reviews as I finish them. In the meantime, here's a list of books that are on the list that I've already read:

1. A Serious of Unfortunate Events by Lemony Snicket
2. Are You There God? It's Me, Margaret by Judy Blume
3. Charlotte's Web by E.B. White
4. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling (duh)
5. Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
6. The Catcher in the Rye by J.D. Salinger
7. The Fault in Our Stars by John Green
8. The Giver by Lois Lowry
9. The Great Gatsby by J.D. Salinger
10. The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
11. The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
12. The Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkein
13. The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle
14. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee

Fourteen of them done, not bad. Also, I'd like to apologize that this is super short, I just don't really have a topic to write about at the moment. I promise, cross my heart, that'll I'll have something at least a little more interesting next time. (Also, about the quotes at the bottom...sometimes I might do quotes about books, instead of from books. Just so you don't get confused.)

"The worst part of holding the memories is not the pain. It's the loneliness of it. Memories need to be shared." -The Giver by Lois Lowry

Day Twenty Nine

Writing Challenge Day 29: Five Weird Things That You Like

1. Crunchy PB&J. I’m not sure exactly when I starting doing this. If I were to guess, it’d be somewhere in my early high school years. I had peanut butter and jelly sandwiches every day for lunch. Literally every day. As you can imagine, PB&J got a bit old. But we didn’t really have much else to pack for lunches, so I started sticking whatever chips or crackers I had in my lunch in my sandwiches. Sometimes it was delicious (Barbeque Chips and Wheat Thins were pretty darn good...not together, of course), and sometimes it was very bland and not much of an improvement (as was the case with Triscuit and oyster crackers). Oh! Cheez its were also a favorite as an added bonus in my sandwich.

2. Re-reading Books. Okay, rereading books isn't that weird. But I reread them to the point of destruction. It’s okay to read them about four to five times. I, however, have read each of the Harry Potter books over ten times, easily. My hardcover copy of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone is falling apart I’ve read it so many times. Two chunks of the pages are falling out (a small one right in the beginning and a large chunk in the beginning/middle) and my front cover is dangerously close to not being attached to the book anymore. It was with great pain that I had to shelf the book, no longer to be used for risk of destroying it completely. Lucky for me, I also have a paperback copy that I will read instead. My copy of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban is also on the precarious path that the first book followed. If I’m not careful, this one will also soon be on the shelf. But what do you like about this, as many of you are probably asking. I love to reread books to the point where I can easily quote them in your everyday conversation.

*Note: This also happens with movies

3. Eat the Fries First. Whenever I go to a fast food restaurant, I eat the fries first, no matter what. I don’t know why, but before I can take a bite out of my burger, my fries have to be gone. I don’t even really have an explanation for this one. Yes, it’s kind of weird, but I’m sure I’m not the only one that does it (right?).

4. Crappy Disney Movies. (From Disney Channel, not our beloved Disney movies) I watch them with my sister all the time and we make fun of them and laugh at how stupid they are. But...but I secretly kind of love them. Yes, they are stupid and really bad. But I can’t get enough of the innocent love stories. There is no sexual pressure, just the awkwardness and adorableness of discovering you like someone and the amazement of discovering that they like you back. Sure, it might be a little immature, but I don’t care. You know, once this writing challenge is over (we only have one more day!) I may have to make a list of my favorite crappy Disney movies.

5. Smiley Faces with Noses. Like so…  :o)   Isn’t it cute? They just look weird to me without noses. Also, without a nose, they become the smiley face version of He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Named (a.k.a. Voldemort). We do not need tiny versions of You-Know-Who running rampant in the virtual world of texting. Pretty soon, all of our cell phones will have horcrux apps and we won’t be able to take him down, even if we had Harry’s unfailing bravery (and, let’s be honest, luck), Hermione’s brains, and Ron’s...well, Ron. Now, before you all go questioning my sanity, I promise I am not this obsessed (maybe just a little). This is not the thought process behind my nosed smiley faces. I just like them better with noses.

“Of course it’s happening inside your head, Harry, but why on earth should that mean it’s not real?” -Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling

Writing Challenge Day 28

          So I was at work today and I started writing this really awesome, thought provoking blog post in my head. Of course, I'm sitting there thinking, 'Man, this is really deep. This could actually be pretty good. I don't need to write anything, I'll remember it.' And you know what I did? I went and forgot every single detail of whatever it was I was writing in my head. I don't even vaguely remember what it was about. I'm actually pretty disappointed. You should be too...this was going to be a pretty awesome post. And now it's just me rambling. Don't worry, I won't ramble the whole time. In fact, I'll move on with the writing challenge now. (Can you believe it's almost over?!)

Writing Challenge Day #28: Something You Always Think 'What if...' About
          Three things pop into my head instantly when I think of 'What if...' situations. One of them occurred at the end of Eighth grade. That year I had mostly abandoned my usual group of friends in favor of hanging out with the popular girls. It was very exhilarating, being part of the 'cool kids' niche. Although, underneath it all, I was still me. I was still a quirky band kid that loved to read. That was me. So at the end of the year, I was invited by one of the popular girls to an 'end of the year' party. This party was to be a boys and girls party (which I had never done. Still haven't, actually.) None of the girls in my previous group of friends had been invited. To me, this was the moment when I decided whether or not I would be popular or not. I chose not to go and I was never invited to another party again. My friends took me back (thank God!) and I have never regretted my decision. But I have always wondered what would have happened if I had gone to that stupid party. Would I have ended up being popular in high school? Probably not, but it's an interesting concept to think about...how different I could have turned out if I had said yes.
          'What if...' scenario number two...remember that guy? Yeah, that one. The one that made me cry and laugh and do both at the same time. I loved him in only the way a young teenage girl can...slightly obsessive, completely irrational, but still genuine. I always wonder what would have happened if I would have told him how I felt. I still wonder what would happen if I told him now. I don't love him, not in the same way. I still think about him all the time and I wonder if telling him might bring me closure. But I don't want to tell him. Because it's just awkward, you know? We're not even really friends anymore. He didn't even wish me a happy birthday (which was Friday), and it kind of sucked because I know he doesn't think about me nearly half as much as I think about him. So this 'What if' is kind of a past and present 'What if'. Maybe, if I told him, I could completely get over him, once and for all and be done with this whole mess.
          My last 'What if...' scenario hasn't really happened yet. It has to do with the Ireland trip. If I get accepted to go, and decide not to, I will probably regret it and be wondering about all the 'What if's' for the rest of my life. I almost don't want to be accepted because than I don't have to make the choice. Don't get me wrong, I would love to go to Ireland. But doing this, on my own, completely terrifies me. I guess we'll know more about that after Thanksgiving. I'll try to find other things to write about once the Writing Challenge is over. We only have two days left...I feel like I just started it a week ago. Funny how slow time seems to go, but how quickly it passes.


"I must stop wishing for things to happen. Because something will happen eventually, and when it does , I'll be bound to wish it hadn't." -Fire by Kristin Cashore

Day 27

         Hey guys, sorry it's been awhile. In my defense, I was gone all weekend on a retreat. And it was very good. For me, it was like a deep, calming breath. That last retreat I want on was a very intense, in your face kind of retreat. Not in a bad way, of course. That one was very fun. It's just that this one was relaxing and reassuring and exactly what I needed. Anyway, onto the challenge!

Writing Challenge Day #27: Your Favorite Place to Eat

         Oh boy. There are several places that I love to eat at. I really enjoy eating at the Mongolian Grill. I mean, I am a huge fan of stir fry and that is the place to go if you want a stir fry. Yumm...But. It's not my favorite. I also really enjoy getting frozen yogurt from Sugar Berry. Oh my gosh, I love Sugar Berry and I love frozen yogurt and I love their method of pricing (leave me alone, I like it, okay?) However, that is also not my favorite place to eat. Unfortunately for me, my favorite place to eat is no longer in business. The Oakwood Lounge, the only place to eat in my tiny town (technically a village), felt like home to me. For a while last year, I went there on a weekly basis. I became a regular at my favorite restaurant (which was pretty cool). I always got water and deep fried pickles. I haven't had a deep fried pickle since it closed at the beginning of May. It was only five months ago, but it feels like it's been ages. I really do miss it. I made some great memories in that restaurant, both with the people who want there with me and those who worked there. Every Thursday night, I would go to the Oakwood with my brother and we would each go to our teams for DJ Trivia (a trivia game). It was free to participate in and usually lasted about an hour and a half. Ugh. You just don't know how much I miss it. I don't think any other restaurant will ever measure up to my beloved Oakwood and I don't think I will ever stop missing it.



“‘Fear not!’ said a strange voice behind him. Frodo turned and saw Strider, and yet not Strider; for the weatherworn Ranger was no longer there. In the stern sat Aragorn son of Arathorn, proud and erect, guiding the boat with skillful strokes; his hood was cast back, and his dark hair was blowing in the wind, a light was in his eyes: a king returning from exile to his own land.” -The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkein

Day of 26

Writing Challenge Day #26: Think Back to How You Were 5 Years Ago. Have You Changed?
          Well of course I have changed. It'd be hard not to in 5 years. I feel like I've actually gone through multiple changes. Five years ago, I was very confident in myself. I would have even considered myself to be a leader. Now, not a good leader, but I had the extroversion to be one. I was arrogant and loud and naive. I used to wish I could be like I was five years ago. However, now I know that I would rather not be that person. Sure, she was confident in herself and her abilities, but she was volatile, emotionally unstable, and far too susceptible to jealousy. I don't want to be her.
          Four years ago I began my rather sudden transition from over confident pain in the butt to the insecure introvert. High school will do that to a person. The first few years of high school were void of any self confidence and spent in countless hours of self loathing. I'm not going to lie, it was pretty bad. I was always sad. I hated looking in the mirror. I didn't want to be me. My last year of high school was better. I still didn't really like myself, but I least I confided in people, something that I apparently have a problem doing. I gained a small bit of independence, not much, but a little. My high school years were all a gradual, slight upward change.
         I went through another rather sudden change this year, which coincided pretty much with me starting college. The whole people anxiety thing is not nearly as overwhelming is it used to be. Sure, I get a little nervous around people I don't know, but it's a natural nervousness. It's no where near the gut wrenching, near panic I used to feel around people that I didn't know. Yes, I would still consider myself to be an introvert. I am not a bubbly, loud person that will just approach people. But I'm not the scared introvert anymore. Now I'm just an introvert. I am also much more independent when than I used to be. And oh my goodness, you would not believe how much I've called people I don't know without giving it a second thought. I used to have to give myself I pep talk for up to fifteen minutes before I could muster up the courage to even dial the number. I'm not saying that I suddenly have astounding self confidence, because I don't, or that now I can be leader, because I'm not. I just know that, compared to the me I was five years ago, and even two months ago, I haven't been more happy with who I am than I am now.

(Quick note about today's quote. I haven't actually read The Book Thief, but it's on my list of 'Must Reads' and I want to read it as soon as possible. However, I did just see the movie, and it made me cry...very good movie. I don't know how it compares with the book, but, since I haven't read it yet, I have no qualms recommending the movie.)


"The consequence of this is that I'm always finding humans at their best and worst. I see their ugly and their beauty, and I wonder how the same thing can be both." -The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

I Have Other Things to Write About Today

          So I found this list of '100 Things to do Before You Die' on Pinterest, and I was curious to see how much I have done. I shall copy down the list here, with comments next to the ones I have done or the ones I want to do. I don't know, I will mix in some of my words among the list.

1. Set foot on all continents (I actually don't have much ambition to do this...)
2. Live in 2 different countries with completely different cultures
3. Solve a Rubik's cube (These frustrate the crap out of me. Solving one would be a miracle.)
4. Learn at least one foreign language (I'm taking Spanish classes right now...do I have to be fluent?)
5. Swim with whale sharks
6. Get drunk at least once in your life (nope. I do not want to do this. I find the whole thing rather stupid)
7. Bungee jump (NO.)
8. Do the Mongol Rally (not really sure what this is...)
9. Swim with dolphins
10. Go on a Safari
11. Learn how to surf (Who's the one teaching me? ;o)
12. Scuba dive (maybe. I might be able to do this)
13. Fly on an airplane (I've done this! So that's one out of one hundred.)
14. Give a public speech.
15. Get your body in the ultimate shape at least once in your life (I'm working on it...ran 2.1 miles today!)
16. Run a marathon (...but it's so long! How about a 5k? I can do that.)
17. Run a triathlon (That could be cool.)
18. Hot air ballooning
19. Ride a motorcycle (I've done this too! My dad used to have one.)
20. Sing to an audience (I have also done this, mostly at church. I sang the National Anthem at a little league championship game once.
21. Volunteer 6 months abroad
22. Have your own business
23. Fish and eat your catch (I don't like fish...)
24. Own a pet (Do I personally have to own it? My family has a dog and a cat.)
25. Renew your vows (Haven't made any yet, so...)
26. Watch the top 10 movies of all time (Is there a list out there somewhere? What are the top ten movie of all time?)
27. Go white water rafting
28. Try rock climbing
29. Dive into the water from a cliff (I would not do this solely because I would feel like Bella Swan.)
30. Learn how to make Sushi (I don't have to eat it, right?)
31. Go to Disney World (I have done this!)
32. Learn how to sail (Yes! Yes! YES!)
33. Paint and frame your painting (How about a sketch?)
34. Help a stranger in distress
35. Ride a roller coaster (unfortunately, I have done this. Not a fan.)
36. Drive the Autobahn (What?)
37. Spend Christmas on the beach (No...that would feel wrong. Christmas should have pine trees and snow.)
38. Get your B.A. (Yep, eventually.)
39. Find a job you love or create the job you love (That would be really nice.) 
40. Read the top 5 novels of all time (Again, is there a list? Because I definitely would do this.)
41. Sleep under the stars
42. Made a fool of yourself (Done.)
43. Drive across an entire country (A small country, hopefully)
44. See a Solar Eclipse
45. Spend the night in a haunted place (I would actually be okay with that)
46. Learn how to play a musical instrument. (Piano, flute, piccolo, and now working on cello...check!)
47. Drink a beer at the Oktoberfest (You know...I might do that. Just one.)
48. Sleep in an igloo (With a space heater I hope)
49. Brew your own beer (Nah.)
50. Go to the Superbowl (Nope. Just nope.)
51. Go to the Olympics, summer or winter (ok, maybe)
52. Write a book (You all know how much I would love to do that! I should actually get to working on that now.)
53. Plant a tree
54. Learn how to dance (I can line dance.)
55. Ride a camel in the desert (Why am I in a desert!?)
56. Ride an elephant (I actually did this once, when I was very young, at a circus)
57. Grow a beard at least once in your life (I'm a girl, so...I made a beard out of my hair once, does that count?)
58. Shave your hair off (No.)
59. Go skinny dipping (No way, Jose)
60. Go to your favorite band's concert 
61. Climb a mountain
62. Learn how to swim (I have done this.)
63. Party until sunrise (you mean...with people? All night? And no sleeping? Ugh.)
64. Go wild at La Tomatina (Don't know what that is...but I don't 'go wild'. I just don't.)
65. Go to the Opera
66. Cross a country using public transportation
67. Get to know your neighbors (Definitely done. Maybe a little too much.)
68. Travel around the world
69. Backpack through another country
70. Go camping 
71. Feed a homeless person
72. Take a class you've always wanted (Creative writing!!)
73. Own a sports car (just a car would be nice)
74. Go skiing (I love skiing!!! So much fun)
75. Shoot a gun (I don't mean to brag, but I killed a chipmunk with a pellet gun once)
76. Trek to Machu Pichu (Trek cannot mean anything other than Star Trek. It just can't. Are we beaming ourselves to Machu Pichu?)
77. Visit Angkor Wat (...huh?)
78. See the Iguazu Falls (I feel super ignorant. I don't know any of these places.)
79. Go Kayaking (I have also done this)
80. Dance at the Carnival in Rio (I guess if I was there, maybe.)
81. See a glacier
82. Take a bath in a hot spring
83. Try to beat a world record (Meh. I'm just no that competitive.)
84. Go to a drive-in movie theatre. (I would love to do this, I really would)
85. Ride a gondola in Venice (YES!)
86. See the Eiffel Tower (Alright, I know this one. And I wouldn't mind seeing it.
87. Fly a kite (Done.)
88. Solve a jigsaw puzzle (Also done.)
89. Be an extra in a movie (My brother was almost an extra in the Batman vs. Superman movie...or is it Superman vs. Batman?)
90. Dance the Macarena (Yep. High school dances covered that one)
91. Eat fried oreos/twinkies/cheesecake (How about pickles? I've had those.)
92. Float in the Dead Sea (For some reason, that does not sound pleasant.)
93. Travel at least once by train (And then I can be like all of my favorite fictional characters)
94. Go on a cruise (it's not going to sink, is it?)
95. See the Northern Lights
96. Travel by yourself (...Ireland?? Hopefully.)
97. Ride a horse (I took horse riding lessons once.)
98. Fall in love. (Fine.)
99. Learn how to juggle (I can juggle two things...but I'm not sure that counts)
100. Feel like the happiest person on Earth (I cannot wait for that day)

Well, if you stuck with it through all 100 items, good for you! I probably wouldn't have. I ran 2.1 miles today. It kind of sucked, considering I haven't run in a month now. But I didn't stop during the whole run and that was my goal. Run and don't stop. I've signed up to do another 5K with one of my friends. This one will be on Thanksgiving, so I'll get a long sleeved t-shirt and I'll be able to stuff my face later. Oh, the joys of life. I shall continue with the writing challenge tomorrow!

"The monsters of the mind are far worse than those that actually exist." Brisingr by Christopher Paolini

Day 25

Writing Challenge Day #25: What Made Your Day Special?
          Currently, it's only 8:20 in the morning, so not much has really happened yet. I suppose this is a post that I should write in the evening. But I am in the mood to write now! So I'll start with what has made my day special so far, and maybe I'll add on to it later. Well, today was my last day riding in to school with my carpool, so it was bittersweet. I'm going to miss seeing them. But I am thankful for my job, even if it means I can't ride with them anymore. It was also nice to drive to the carpool this morning. I feel like I never actually drive anymore. I miss my truck. And so far, I think that's it. I suppose I'll have to wait until later in the day to post this, when I have more to write about.
          Well, now it's 12:50, and there hasn't been that much to make today special. Same stats class, same lunch, same building...This Thursday is no more special than the last how many Thursdays. I still have quite a bit of day left, so hopefully something will happen, but who knows. Maybe I'll just go home and go to bed (that would definitely make today special. I am so tired.) I'll come back around three-ish probably, let you know if anything special happens.
          Okay. 3:19. I got to come home, put my pajamas on, and watch Red Band Society (my newest show, still decided how much I like. Or not.) Which I guess, in a way, is pretty special. Sure my day was kind of boring. But I'm sure there were other people who had days way worse than mine, which makes mine pretty special. On that note, I'll end this with a quote. More tomorrow!

“There is no such thing as a moral or immoral book. Books are well written, or badly written. That is all.” -The Picture of Dorian Gray by Oscar Wilde

It's October!

          Happy October everyone! (This is one of my favorite months, and not just because of my birthday. I just love fall!! Hooray sweatshirt weather!) Anyway, I apologize for not being very diligent in my blog writing lately. Things have slightly hectic. Which is why, instead of doing the writing challenge today, I've decided I'd give you an update on my life.
          I finally got new strings for my cello, but one of them is too short and I have to go back and have someone fix it, because I don't know how. The good new is that I can play Hot Cross Buns, Mary Had a Little Lamb, and part of Amazing Grace. I know, not very impressive...but I'll get better! I mean, it took me twelve years to be as good as I am at piano.
          Remember that job interview I had awhile back? I got the job! I'm training this week and then I get to start on Monday. I get my own set of keys and a fancy name tag, which is exciting. But I think the part I'm most excited for is being able to work with other people. I'll finally have a job that isn't lonely! The few times I've been there, everyone has been so nice and I really am excited to start working (and learn everyone's names...)
          I have officially decided to apply for the Ireland trip. I am both nervous and excited, for the same reason. What if I'm accepted? Of course that will be very exciting, but that means I'll actually have to decide if I'm going or not. The deadline for application is November 21st. I'm not sure when I'll know if I'm accepted, but I will definitely inform you all if I go. Or if I don't. Regardless, you will know if I will be staying in Michigan or heading to the beautiful Ireland.
          Let's see, what else is new with me? My birthday is in two weeks and two days. I know, exciting stuff. Personally, I'm hoping for a cake. With frosting and candles. And money to go to Ireland. Sigh...it is so hard to do things when all I can think about is Ireland. Of course, you all are thinking, just go! You obviously want to! Yes, yes I do want to. I just need to put a lot of thought into it and obsess about it for awhile. Anyway. Things new with me...I got 100% on a Stats test, which is a new feeling for me. I've never gotten 100% on a math test ever (excluding 8th grade and down). I've actually always felt rather stupid because all of my friends are freakishly smart. But now that I'm in college, I feel like a freaking genius. And I'm not sure how I feel about that.
          Okay...something else...I'm reading a new book. It's called Death Comes to Pemberley and so far it is dreadfully boring. But it has Mr. Darcy and Elizabeth, so I have to finish it. Also, Colonel Fitzwilliam is an awful character in this variation of Pride and Prejudice, so if you like him at all, don't read it. Who knows, maybe it'll get better. I'm only about halfway through, so I'll let you know if it gets any better. I really hope it does. In the meantime, here's a quote to keep you occupied.

"Words, in my humble opinion, are the most inexhaustible source of magic we have." Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling

Day 24

Writing Challenge Day #24: What is your truest fear? (Excluding spiders and horror films)

          I'm afraid of a lot of things. I'm afraid dark forests, pigs, being lifted by other people, and small dark places. I'm also afraid of spiders, not so much horror films though. I'm afraid of dying with my eyes closed. (If I'm going to die, I want my eyes to be open. I know, it's a weird fear, but that's what I'm afraid of.) I'm afraid that I won't take opportunities (like Ireland) because I'm too afraid. But that's not my biggest fear. Or truest, or whatever. I am mostly afraid of being entirely alone. I mean, I love having the house to myself as much as the next person. But only for so long. And when I say alone, I mean both physically being the only person, like the last person on Earth and being alone, but surrounded by people. Does that even make sense? In my head it does. Let me try again...I'm afraid of being unwanted by everyone around me, of being a complete outcast. That scares me more than being the last person on Earth. I've even had several nightmares about it. Usually they involve me waking up one day to find that no one will speak to me or even look at me, as if I didn't exist. But I know that they know that I am there, I'm just not important enough to be worth even a glance. I hate those dreams. But yeah, that's my biggest fear.

“She had blue skin,

And so did he.

He kept it hid

And so did she.

They searched for blue

Their whole life through,

Then passed right by-

And never knew.”  -Every Thing On It by Shel Silverstein 

Ireland, again.

          Alright guys...I was supposed to write about my truest fear for the writing challenge. But I can't. My mind is far too occupied elsewhere, Ireland specifically. Shall I tell you my dilemma? There is a study abroad program through my college to go to Ireland for a little less than three weeks. And what is the program, you ask? Literature. This is like MY trip. This is the trip for me. And, as far as study abroad programs go, not that costly. I really, really, reeeallly want to go. Ireland, guys! IRELAND!

          (I'm not seeing the dilemma here...)

          Sorry, I'm getting to that. I really want to go, BUT I have some cons. I've never traveled outside of the country before (Canada does not count), and that terrifies me. I would be without anyone I know, which also terrifies me. I would have to miss my brother's graduation (but hey, my older brother missed mine, so..). While the trip isn't terribly expensive, it's not terribly cheap either. And I'm only a college freshman. The trip is open to all students, but I feel like freshmen don't belong on these sorts of things. Am I right? But I want to go so bad! Guys, this is Ireland, the one place I want to go more than anywhere else (closely followed by New Zealand). I am just very torn on this. If there is anyone that reads this other than my Franco Fan, I could use some advice. (Advice from Franco Fan is more than welcome, of course. And just so you know, I will always refer to you as Franco Fan on here now. Congratulations.) I will now put on a picture from Ireland so we can take a moment to sigh wistfully. Let the sighing commence.

"All that is gold does not glitter,

Not all those who wander are lost;
The old that is strong does not wither,
Deep roots are not reached by the frost.

From the ashes a fire shall be woken,
A light from the shadows shall spring;
Renewed shall be blade that was broken,
The crownless again shall be king.”

-Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkein

Day 23

Writing Challenge #23: Post Pictures of Five Guys Who Are Famous And You Find Attractive
          Well, I am going to have fun with this one. Should I do 5 as the most attractive or 1? Maybe I should start with 1...

          Guy #5: You know what? I can't even rank them! They're all so adorable and I just want to give them a hug or a high five or something.
       
          Guys 1-5 in no particular order: Everyone say hi to Brenton Thwaites, Eugene Fitzherbert, Joseph Gordon Levitt, Orlando Bloom, and Aragorn. (And yes, I can have fictional characters if I want to!)


Apparently I have a thing for brunettes. Lucky for me, so does Eugene Fitzherbert...Now this was really hard to pick five, so I hope you don't mind if I chose a few honorable mentions? Of course you don't! Here they are:
            

And lastly, even if they aren't my favorite, I have a pair that just have to be on here for my most dedicated reader. I present, the Franco brothers!

                      

I realize this wasn't really a writing challenge. All I had to do was post pictures of attractive guys. Not too hard, right? Lucky for you, my book quote today is really long, so that should keep you occupied for some time.

“Do you think I am an automaton? — a machine without feelings? and can bear to have my morsel of bread snatched from my lips, and my drop of living water dashed from my cup? Do you think, because I am poor, obscure, plain, and little, I am soulless and heartless? You think wrong! — I have as much soul as you — and full as much heart! And if God had gifted me with some beauty and much wealth, I should have made it as hard for you to leave me, as it is now for me to leave you. I am not talking to you now through the medium of custom, conventionalities, nor even of mortal flesh: it is my spirit that addresses your spirit; just as if both had passed through the grave, and we stood at God's feet, equal — as we are!” -Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte

Day 22

Writing Challenge Day #22: Something You Haven't Done That Most People Have
          We're almost there! Only eight more days of this challenge. It almost seems a bit bittersweet, doesn't it? At the very least, I think it does. And now it is time to actually do the challenge. I suppose there should be quite a number of things that I haven't done that most people have. I'm just having trouble thinking of them at the moment. So let's start with things I have never done and I'll let you decide if most people have done it or not. So...shall we begin? (Just in case you're not as big of a nerd as I am, that was me, quoted Star Trek: Into Darkness. More specifically, I was quoting Khan as he taunted Captain Kirk from his holding cell. If you haven't seen this movie, watch it. If you have seen it, watch it again. Which is what I plan on doing, possibly tomorrow if I have time. Anyway, the list...)


Things I Haven't Done That Most People May or May Not Have Done:

1. Gotten a pedicure or a manicure
2. Seen Anastasia
3. Traveled farther west than Indiana
4. Traveled farther east than Tennessee
5. Gone to a theatre to see a rated R movie
6. Lived in a city
7. Been in a relationship
8. Met an author (I want to. Some day, hopefully)
9. Had a secret crush on Channing Tatum (Sorry...I just don't find him to be all that attractive. He seems like a nice guy though)
10. Gone hunting
11. Had a smart phone
12. Listened to NSYNC
13. I'm kind of sick of this list.
14. So I think I'll stop putting things on it.
15. Fifteen is a good number to stop at.

"Dreams are like that: they go in and out of memories and scenes, but they're never real. They're never real, and I hate them because they aren't." -Across the Universe by Beth Revis

The Twenty First Day

Writing Challenge Day #21: Your Favorite TV Show

       
          I have a handful of TV shows that I watch. I watch Falling Skies, which I actually don't enjoy, but I've been watching it from the beginning and I can't stop now. And there's only one more season, so it'll be over soon. I also have 'The Big Five', which are all contest shows, for lack of a better term. 'The Big Five' includes America's Got Talent (Mat Franco won! He was my favorite of the top 6, so I'm glad he won.), American Idol, American Ninja Warrior, Survivor, and Face Off. I enjoy all of these shows, mostly, but none of them are my favorite. My favorite TV show, easily, is The Walking Dead. It was a show that I originally wouldn't have watched. And I wasn't planning on it either. My brother just happened to be watching the first episode while I was doing homework. So, of course, I watched it instead of doing homework. And at first, I couldn't stomach it. I had to close my eyes during the gory scenes (and have my brother tell me when they were over). It was a disgusting show. But for some reason, I watched the next episode. And the next one after that. It was so addicting. And I eventually built up my gore tolerance. And they just got more intense and more disturbing. It comes back on October 12! I am slightly excited for season 5. I also don't like Carl. And I think that's all I've got to say on that.

*Edit* I may have lied unintentionally. While I do love Walking Dead, I really do, I don't think it's my favorite TV show. There is one other show that I forgot about entirely, probably because it's series finale was in 2004. You know what I'm talking about? Friends. I think it is the best show ever and I'm just sad that there won't ever be new episodes (unless by some chance they do Friends: The Nursing Home Years, which, however entertaining it might be, isn't very likely to happen.) So number one favorite TV show? Friends. Number one favorite TV couple? Monica and Chandler. (Sorry Jim and Pam, I like them better) Number one favorite TV character that Jennifer Aniston has played? Rachel Green. I also really like the theme song.

"It takes ten times as long to put yourself back together as it does to fall apart." -Mockingjay

The Day of Twenty

          Quick off topic before I do the writing challenge for today...So, my dad drives me home after school every Tuesday (I commute to school, usually with a carpool, but on Tuesdays, I come home with my dad),
and every time the car 'breaks down' and we stop to eat somewhere, usually somewhere I haven't been before. Today we 'broke down' at Cancun Grill, and while I'm not usually a huge fan of Mexican food, it was pretty darn good. I don't think it's a place I would go very often, but I could definitely could see myself going there again. Although, like most restaurants, they gave me way too much food. Oh well, at least it makes for good leftovers. And I have a picture of the chips and salsa we get before our meal! Anywho. On to the challenge!

Writing Challenge Day Twenty: The Meaning Behind Your Blog Name
          Well...The person who made this blog is very different than the one I am now. At the time, you know, when I first made it, I was a silly, insipid person who was over dramatic and cried too easily. And I kind of gave my blog two names (I wasn't really sure what I was doing when I made it). So first, there is the eleganceofinspiration.blogspot.com tidbit. I remember wanting to have something about inspiration there and elegance of inspiration sounded cool and, well, elegant. I didn't really have meaning. But now, I really like it. It has definitely grown on me. There really is something elegant about finding inspiration in things. I try to find inspiration, as well as to inspire, on a daily basis. It's no secret that I love to write, and in order to be a writer, you need to find inspiration everywhere, especially in the little things that other people don't notice. And to me, there is a certain elegance to that.
          Now, the second name, Make it Good, means pretty much the same thing to me now that it did when I made the blog. It basically means that you can take any situation and make it good. You just need to look at it right. The biggest difference with this title is that, when I made it, it was just an Idea with a capital I. Something that I wanted to do, but didn't think I ever would. Now it's actually attainable. I've gotten quite a bit better at putting a positive spin on things. I'm glad I have, too. I rather like the person I am now.

"It's amazing that a man who is dead can talk to people through these pages. As long as this book survives, his ideas live." -Eragon by Christopher Paolini