The Divinity of the Decagon

Today will conclude my 2010 year end review. I am excited to see what the new year has in store for my life, and what inspiration it will bring to my blogging experience. I would like to thank all of you for taking time to read my musings; I hope they have given you insight to the life of Leigh Anne. When I started my blog I never thought that: a) I would have this much to write, and b) that I would continue for this long. I hope that my blog doesn't run dry any time soon; I do not anticipate anything of the sorts seeing as how my parents are quick to comment when I don't post for a few days.

This year has brought so much into my life. I am most grateful for the new people, and old, that have played such a significant role in my journey through life. I am blessed to have such wonderful people to walk with me through this crazy adventure of life. Through all the laughter, tears, silly moments, stressful days, accomplishments, and the times where I couldn't be more thankful to have friends who are honest with me, I think of all of the beautiful faces in my life and simply smile. To all of you, who are these people, thank you for being you.

As next semester approaches, and I open this new chapter in my book of life, I leave you with this:

Irish Blessing

May the road rise to meet you,
May the wind be always at your back.
May the sun shine warm upon your face,
The rains fall soft upon your fields.
And until we meet again,
May God hold you in the palm of his hand.

May God be with you and bless you:
May you see your children's children.
May you be poor in misfortune,
Rich in blessings.
May you know nothing but happiness
From this day forward.

May the road rise up to meet you
May the wind be always at your back
May the warm rays of sun fall upon your home
And may the hand of a friend always be near.

May green be the grass you walk on,
May blue be the skies above you,
May pure be the joys that surround you,
May true be the hearts that love you.

Since 2007 you've been watching me from heaven. 

Thank you KTG: SOTD

 

If We Were a Movie, You'd Be the Right Guy

Today was wonderful to say the least. The day started off terrible; I had to go to the dentist this morning. However, after departing from my number one most hated place on earth, my granddad and I left for the Canadian basketball tournament. We watched our girls and boys play basketball, ate at a nice restaurant then we came home...the long way. Both of us have driven to Canadian countless times over the years, and even though I kept asking him if we had missed our turn, we kept driving straight and ended up in Perryton, thirty miles out of the way. Neither of us were upset with going off-course; we just laughed for a couple of miles and continued with our conversation. It was a great day; we have always enjoyed spending time together.

I had intended to make this my 2010 movie list; but as I began thinking about it I came to the conclusion that I have made it through maybe five movies this year. On the occasion I enjoy a movie, usually when I am going to bed, but when I actually try and think about movies I could review, the list is slim to none.

Because I cannot make a movie list for the year, I will just make a list of films that I have enjoyed watching over the years.

If you have been reading my blog for an extended period, you already know that I am rather fond of this movie and the book as well; both are based on a true story.

Pocahontas is my all-time favorite Disney movie. Also, this is probably my favorite love story.

Atlantis is a close second for my list of Disney favorites. I plan on re-watching this movie in the near future.

If you have seen this movie, we should talk. I find that not many people have ever seen, much less heard of this film. I don't remember where or why I had to view the film, but I remember watching it more than once.

 

This movie is one of those emotional films; if you like to cry you will love this movie! 

This honestly might be my favorite film, actually it is. I am not a person to have favorites, but this is my favorite movie of all time. As to why it is my favorite, watch it, then we can discuss that.

I hope your day has been swell and if you haven't seen all of the movies on the list, that you are intrigued to see them. 

Carpe Diem,

law

I almost forgot: :) 

Listen to the Music

By now I am sure you have gathered that I have an eclectic music taste. Because I have decided to continue with my rewind of 2010, today's blog will be focused on my favorite music of the year. I have this friend who is a music junkie like I am and we share songs with each other continuously; we like to share the songs that make you "feel" something. I would like to note that these songs did not necessarily debut in the past year but were merely ones that I thoroughly enjoyed. 

 

"Pull My Heart Away"-Jack Penate
   This song is the most played song on my iTunes. I first listened to it when I went to see the movie Charlie St. Cloud. I love the song, it's one of those that never gets old for me.

"Dog Days Are Over"-Florence+The Machine
   This song was on the trailer for Eat Pray Love. I absolutely love this song it definitely does something for me. The video is strange to say the least, so if it is your first time to hear the song I would advise you to save the video watching. Also, thanks to "Glee" this song has just recently became an even bigger hit.

"Waka Waka"-Shakira
   This was the song I listened to almost ever morning during my first semester of college. I loved World Cup this summer especially considering the fact that my brother basically became an insane soccer fanatic for two weeks. Listen to the song, learn the dance, love the message.


"40 Day Dream"-Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
   Great beat, great song, it is on my most played list.

"Come Pick Me Up"-Ryan Adams
    This song features a harmonica so it won my heart over quickly. The language isn't my favorite...at all, I don't understand the need to use profanity in music; however, if you can get past the swearing in the chorus I find the song to be one worth listening to.

"13 Ghosts II"-Nine Inch Nails
    I really can't tell you why I like this song, or what it does for me; I would just suggest listening to it and then maybe you will understand.

"True Love Way"-Kings of Leon
    My love for the music made by Kings of Leon is intense. I do not have a favorite band, but if I did they would be at the top of the list. This is an older song, but I listened to it frequently in the past year.

"One Headlight"-The Wallflowers
    Definitely too old for the 2010 list, but by now I'm sure you are beginning to understand that I don't care about the year. So just remember "nothing is forever, there's got to be something better than in the middle."


"A Walk On the Wild Side"-Lou Reed
    This song just recently made the listen and all credit is attributed to my mother. We don't agree on every song, but I would say my mother and I have a similar taste in music. Currently, this song is at the top of the list.

Givers
    Their whole album is worth purchase and you can buy it at the above link. This is my favorite song of theirs. I can't tell you how much I love these guys; great thing is, they will be in Austin for SXSW, score.

"God of This City"-Chris Tomlin
    I definitely feel something when I listen to this song. I love listening to this song and knowing that I serve such a mighty God.

"Coyotes"-Grizzly Man Soundtrack
    When you listen to this song, don't judge me. My oldest brother Ryan insisted that I listen to this song one day. Needless to say, it slowly grew into a favorite. Sing it with me now "ooo yip oooo yip oooo."

"Satellite Heart"-Anya Maria
    This song is on the New Moon soundtrack. I enjoy the whole soundtrack; this song is a favorite though.

Kasey Anderson
     I am obsessed with this guy. Right now he is on repeat every time my music playing. You wouldn't regret listening to him, or I don't think you would, I sure didn't!

Anyways, as I'm sure you know, this song list could go on forever but I am sure I am beginning to bore you. Furthermore, I will end your reading, if you continued this far, and conclude this post.

2010: It was fun, but I don't want to do it again.

Greetings all, I hope this muse finds you in good spirits. I have become lackadaisical in my musing, this I realize. My aspirations for the blog are such that I hope my posts become regular again; I seemed to have hit a month or two of "writers block" or something of the sorts.

Currently I am at my brothers' house in Gruver where I am cleaning. The house is done minus the laundry and dishes that I am waiting on. Also, if you are thinking that I am just being a nice sister and cleaning because I love them, you are mistaken. I love my brothers of course, but their house was overdue for a cleaning job.

As 2010 comes to a close, I like many others begin to recollect my thoughts on the year and the memories that have been made throughout. Looking back, I laugh at the things that caused me worry, and smile at them knowing what kind of contribution they have made in my life now. I would like to share a few with you:

-deciding exactly where I was going to college
      The college decision was a difficult one to make. Not only did I cause myself grief, but my parents as well, I am sure. God gave me the greatest parents, because at the time they did the most that they could do about the decision, pray. Now that I am at St. Edward's, I am once again reminded that God always answers prayer, and in my case exceeds expectations and blesses abundantly.

-graduation day
      The day that I thought would never come. Just like any highschooler, my senioritis was anything but obscured by 2010. Graduation already seems so distant, even though it was less than a year ago. Living in a small town, the people that I graduated with are still friendly faces that I see frequently when I am home. I am sure as time goes by, the number of people that I remain in contact with from high school will grow smaller and smaller.

-leaving home
      In early August I embarked on my great adventure with my mother. I remember all the nervous jitters and excitement that came with the journey. Saying good bye to my family was difficult knowing that it would be a few months before we would all see each other again. I am sure that I could have taken myself to Austin, but having my mom with me was such a blessing and made the move that much easier, mentally and physically; plus, there is no way I was going to be able to move all my stuff without two cars.

-the newest loves of my life
      Moving from home also meant new friends. At college, I have met the most amazing people; I am truly blessed. Each person, no matter how much time I spend with them, plays a significant role in my life. These people I am ever so grateful to have in my life.

-ending my first semester of college
      As you well know, it was a fabulous semester full of struggle and joy. After finals week was over, and I realized that I was still alive, God took me to a place of rest. I am still in that place; God is preparing me for the next semester ahead.

 

In the following blog posts I will continue with my review of 2010. Today's post will be the end of the memory hi-lights; I hope you haven't found this muse arid. 

As always, here is the song of the day.

Carpe Diem,

law

Buddy the Elf What's Your Favorite Color?

Tis the season. I have been home for almost a week now and tomorrow it is supposed to snow. My time so far in Gruver has been full of R and R. Being back in town means that I also am back to work at the El Vaquero, one of my favorite places to be in the world. Today there was a 65th wedding anniversary and yesterday the widow women came and ate. Everyday at the cafe is new and interesting filled with endless stories and tall tales from our everyday faithful customers. Because I am home, I also become the cleaner of my two older brothers' house, for pay of course. I soon will conquer this task of what mom warns me to be completely disgusting.

Recently I started a Tumblr, it's just for fun take a look if you happen to be bored.

Oh, also, the greatest thing happened to me yesterday. Because I live in a small town, I have been answering the phone at the El Vaquero "Buddy the elf what's your favorite color?". I tweeted about this and low and behold Buddy the Elf had begun to follow me and tweeted at me asking what MY favorite color was! I know it's silly, but I was beyond excited. I am not a fan of funny movies at all; however, I love Elf and if you haven't I would definitely suggest that you see it over the Christmas holiday.

Oh and just for the record, the 18th is international answer the phone "Buddy the elf what's your favorite color?" day!

Small Town Kid

Greetings all, I realize that my efforts in the blogging world have been inadequate lately and I apologize. At the moment I am a bit upset with my blog because I tried to video post and blogspot was not cooperating. So until I have more patience, you will have to continue to read. 

I left Austin and drove the ten hour drive back to Gruver this past Friday. I am thankful for the time I will be able to spend with my family and close friends here. As for school, I survived my first week of college finals! Honestly, I am still catching up on all the sleep I lost during that week. God has provided this month away from Austin for me to rest in Him, bringing me to a place where He can just romance me and believe me, it is much needed. It always brings me such joy to know that the God of the universe is so jealous for my heart and desires to spend time with just me. 

As for the song of the day, I would suggest listening to the whole Twilight Saga: New Moon soundtrack. I have always loved it, but recently it has been on repeat. 

 

Anyways, more to come. 

Love,

law

Creative Title for This Blog Post

My dad tweeted at me today where he expressed his anticipation for my next blog post. Upon reading his tweet I then realized exactly how long it had been since I had posted. I began to write a post sometime last week but deleted it upon realizing that what I was writing simply wasn't worth posting. I don't want my blog to become mundane to my readers so I felt it was necessary to take a short leave from the blogging world. However, I feel that God has blessed me continuously in the past two weeks and very much wish to share that with each of you.

My Thanksgiving break was very much needed, and I enjoyed it very much. I slept from ten to ten most days, spent time with my lovely family, and ate entirely too much. The break was short, but it was just enough to launch me into the next eleven days where I will have my first encounter with the daunting final exams of a college student. During the next eleven days I would ask selfishly for an extra minute of prayer and petitioning on my behalf as well as for my friends.

God provided wonderful time with my family over the holiday and I cannot wait to spend time with them again over Christmas. I don't particularly like holidays in and of themselves; however, I love Christmas as most of you are aware. The song of the day is actually "Christmas Time" by Phil Wickham. The downfall to the SOTD is that it is not on YouTube and I could find no link for the song. If you purchase music legally, it is however available on iTunes and would be a nice addition to the Christmas collection.

The only thing I am not anticipating about the upcoming break is the below freezing weather that I will be traveling back to. Just for the record and my satisfaction, it is still seventy and above daily in Austin. Although my mom did gift me with a new pair of rain/snow boots that I cannot wait to put to good use; so maybe snow during the break wouldn't be a complete downfall.

Anyways, this muse will remain short because my slumber is beckoning. However, keep your Pandora tuned to the Christmas station and your chestnuts roasting on the fire! Merry Christmas!

Carpe Diem,

law

Hate Is a Strong Word

It's old, but it's good: Father and Son

This weekend, the Lady Hounds, and Luis Mendoza ran at the state cross country meet. Not only did they compete, but they won! It was such an exciting day for them. It's almost a comical thing to be a Lady Hound, past, present, or future. For the most part you get to be excited for about a minute then you are thinking about next year. Not to say that you don't get to be excited about your win but your eyes are always set on what is still left to be accomplished. Mrs. Been screams for joy then turns to Ragan and Bailey who are 8th graders and says "Get ready for three next year!" This is what I admire so much about having been a Lady Hound, it doesn't matter what you've done it matters what you are doing.

I was texting Mrs. Been the night before the race and we were talking about the race and such. I simply told her the girls would do it because I knew that they had the most heart. This proved true the next day when the girls ran their hearts out and put everything on the line. Also, I would like to commend the Spearman Lynxettes who three-peated their state win! It was a great weekend for Hansford County.

Thanksgiving is rapidly approaching. I am not the biggest fan of holidays in general, but I am super excited to see my family! I have pretty big families on both sides and I love it. There is always tons of laughter, love, and fellowship at family get-togethers. I hope to have some time to do plenty of work during Thanksgiving, but I'm not going to count my chickens.

It snowed in Gruver the other day; it was seventy degrees in Austin, THANK GOD! However, I have acquired a bit of a cold so prayer would be appreciated.

Also, if you haven't noticed, there is a link on my sidebar to the Tree's (Davin's) blog. If time allows, take a look; you might understand more about where the Apple (me) gets her musing desires from.

Love,

law

Rain It On Down, What Else Can You Throw At Me?

This should make you feel something, well it did for me: SOTD

So I wrote a sonnet in class today. Most of the time when I write a sonnet I try and write it about abstract random things that no one can truly comprehend. However, today I felt like sticking to the true "sonnet" form. Although the sonnet is not consistently in iambic pentameter, it is decent in format. I am my own worst critic, but I figured my blog needed some color in the writing. Change is good.

it was then, that love crossed my path once more,
like a breeze through my hair sun on my cheek
i opened the window, love the door.
takes my breath away on a mountain peak--

love you are so bold, gentle and sweet
running free, Love you make me feel like air
listening to love's heart, i feel the beat
Love and I are free, we make such a pair.

when the sun rises on love's face it soaks
the air is light, the world is new each day
love was not a choice or something love coaxed
Love in my life, never the skies are gray.

falling into the depths of the ocean
tilit my head back, i drink the love potion.


Here is the one of the most beautiful representations of love that I have ever seen in my life:

These are my dad's parents.

Here is the another beautiful representation of love that I have witnessed:

  

These are my wonderful parents.

These are my mom parents; absolutely love them.

In society today all commonly do people forget exactly what it means to marry someone. I cannot tell you how many of my friends come from broken homes. Yes, I realize that God makes good things happen out of a mess. However, I love what marriage means to both sides of my family, and the true value of love that has been instilled in me over the years. I know that being married has not been a walk in the park for any of the couples above. However, the beauty that was created because these marriages is a masterpiece. My family means the world to me, especially my grandparents. Because I am from a small town I also consider this couple to be my grandparents. 

Once again, love never fails:

These are my bosses at the cafe I work at back home. When I say they are like my grandparents, I'm not kidding. Honestly, everyone that sits at the community table for lunch is just another grandparent to me. Working at the El Vaquero was the best thing that happened to me at fifteen. I became a waitress and arguably learned more about life everyday at the restaurant than I have anywhere else. I would do absolutely anything for Phyllis and Harvey and everyone that sits at the community table daily. I love listening to all the stories and dealing with all the taunting that the older men engage in just to get a rise out of me.

God paints such beautiful pictures of love doesn't He?

Love, love, love,

law

Come Pick Me Up

Elizabethtown

So this weekend was great! I went to College Station first where I spent the night with Cha'tae. Then Caleb and I left the next day and met up with Katie G. back in Austin. Katie came in and we were not exactly "set" on waking up the next morning for the race.........sooooo we slept in for the cure. Not exactly our finest moments, but we supported the cause nonetheless; we just didn't get our workout in. It was such a good weekend spent with such wonderful people. Also, added bonus, I got to Skype with my dad on Thursday before the big weekend.

I am currently writing a research analysis on Philip K. Dick's Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep? and Blade Runner. 

Also on the school note, I sign-up for my classes on Wednesday, I hope my schedule works out.

I am so excited for Hansford Country cross country! The Lady Hounds, Lynxettes, and Luis Mendoza will be running at the STATE cross country meet once again next weekend! I realize that they all just wanted a reason to come down and visit me, I am truly obliged. No, but really they all worked so hard and they deserve everything; they are WARRIORS. There is no doubt in my mind that both teams will win State Championships again.


I hope you have an absolutely fabulous Monday, you should since we got to fall back! Watch Blade Runner if you haven't, it's worth it for Harrison Ford alone.

Love from above,

law

"F" Is For Friends That Do Stuff Together

These are some of my wonderfully amazing friends...

 I have never been the type that has trouble making friends. However, when I moved to Austin God has put some pretty amazing friends in my life. My friends circle is growing daily and I absolutely love it. Curran you already know about, he really means the world to me. Amarette, the blonde, is the RA on the second floor of my building. She is a huge part of my life and her room is basically our hangout, I mean she has a couch... Laulie, on the right, first and foremost is progressively becoming a "waaahhher". Laulie and I have plans to travel the world together and we will do this. Chris, on the left barely peeking in, is my newest friend; he is a sweetie, I am glad I met him :). Many friends I have not mentioned in depth, like Melina, Karissa, Noah, Zac, Laura, Lauren, Camille, my whole LLC, and many others however that doesn't take away from what they mean to me and what role they play in my life. They simply were just not there last night when I didn't want to write my paper and we started taking pictures on my Mac.

I have great friends back at home, but the ones that I have here also have a special place in my heart.

It was Claire's birthday yesterday. We all went out to eat together (most of our LLC) it was a good evening. We went to Steak 'n Shake and just hung out. I think Claire had a good birthday, I sure hope she did; she deserves it for sure.

This weekend my next door neighbor from home and basically my sister, Katie, is coming to stay with me. My friend Caleb is also coming down, he will stay with Curran of course, but all of us are going to run in Race for the Cure on Sunday, I am really excited! It will be a fun weekend, with great friends!

So I'm focusing on making it through Friday anticipating the fabulous weekend that awaits me, you should do the same.

Here is the SOTD

I'm That Mountain Peak Up High

Sunday, Halloween, was Teague's birthday. I love her to death; my mother is such an amazing woman. We never really agreed on clothes and such when I was younger. However, not to say she didn't try to get me to wear a dress. I'm under the impression that dressing me as a child was a chore in and of itself; and keeping me in one outfit for an entire day was a much greater task. My parents tell me that as a child my clothes that I took with me to my babysitter for "accident" purposes would be the clothes that I would be wearing at the end of the day; not because I had had an accident, but simply because I liked to change clothes. My mom gave up dressing me soon after my dad convinced her that it was a lost cause. Although mom and I still had our disagreements about clothes on occasion, it was never something that we couldn't see past. Around the end of my junior year in high school I began sitting on the floor in her room for long hours with our dogs just hanging out and talking. I was, and still am, quite an energetic child so my mom would listen to me talk in one of my many cartoon voices or listen on repeat to the song of the day. We talk about who is beating who in words with friends, and who has chosen never to play us again. My relationship with my mom is such a beautiful and precious relationship to me. Not to say we never had our disagreements and still won't, because that of course is part of life. However, I love her more than anything in the world and now simply laugh when I look at my kindergarten school picture with my class where I am wearing a Dallas Cowboys football jersey with a baseball cap on backwards.

Oh, here is the song of the day.

This is Mt. Everest. As a child, and even now, I have a penchant for mountains, and heights in general. Climbing Everest is not exactly a tangible feat, but honestly I don't care, it's still on the bucket list. I can only imagine what breath taking (literally) beauty would be experienced when standing on top of the world. I have never really made a bucket list but here are a few things I would like to do before my dying day.

sky dive
live in Africa
become trilingual
walk the nation
bungee jump
visit every continent
write a book
have a huge (like 10+ kids) family
become a senator possibly president

Anyways, that is all for today. I hope your day is beautiful.

Love,


law


Just because it's in my head: SOTD2

Maybe I Have Been Here Before..

Please listen: SOTD

First, you must be aware of the reasons that I haven't posted since Friday. I was unable to access my gmail and also my Facebook. Believe me, I experienced serious frustration in the past few days. On a lighter note, my grandmother sent me a package and I received it today; it was fabulous! I have also become a frequent tweeter in the past few weeks; so if you have Twitter and would like to follow me, feel free!

It is still ninety degrees in Austin; I am beginning to think this weather never ceases, which makes me oh so happy! This weekend is Halloween. I am a bit upset because honestly I have trick-or-treated every year that I can remember. Not to say I can't go trick-or-treating in Austin, but it just doesn't have the small town feel and who knows what some creeper might put in my candy bag.  

I would like to also personally thank all of you, my readers, for your comments and views on my blog. When I began I never thought I would obtain so many readers and people would be so interested in my muses; but when someone talks to me about my blog it always makes me feel good. My sweet friend Melina actually read my blog and wanted to start one of her own. I believe she follows me; I'm sure she would appreciate readers as well if you are interested.

I was having a conversation with my dear friend Amarette the other day about what a leader should be. I was telling her that I thought no matter what you were leading, or what type of leader you were, the one thing you should be is inspirational. I have never been much of a follower, and I aspire to one day be a great leader, leading by inspiration. I am living in an environment filled with things and people that inspire me. I hope you are inspired by new things everyday. God created such a wonderful world full of inspiring surroundings. If the weather is either beautiful or bearable, preferably the first, take a walk and see if you find inspiration in the simple beauty of the earth. Also, watch the Rangers win the World Series just like every Texan will be doing.

Love you all,

law

The Sound of Silence

Today's song of the day is of course the title of today's muse: Simon and Garfunkel's The Sound of Silence.

This week has been such a hectic week. However, it is finally over and I feel like I can actually take a breath which is nice. Claire's mom is in town and I the opportunity to meet her earlier. I met her in a passing by so the three of us didn't really get to chit chat or anything but it was still wonderful to meet the lovely lady who raised my oh so lovely roommate!

Tonight on the main lawn of the campus we celebrated St. Edward University's 125th birthday party. There was free food, music, and of course cake There was a cake decorating contest and enough cake for 2,000 people I believe. I had a great time at the event.

For my Rhetoric and Composition class we are writing letters to the editor's of newspapers. I haven't exactly decided which newspaper I want to write to or even what I want to write about. The idea I am currently mulling over in my head is to send a letter to the school newspaper about midterm general surveys in my freshmen studies classes. I find that surveys over a hundred questions long given to freshmen to rate how strongly they feel satisfied about a certain aspect is just a way for the college to be able to put on there admissions pamphlet "Over 99% of last years freshman said they absolutely love it on campus!" Okay, now not that statement exactly but you catch my drift.

I am also in the process of figuring out exactly where and when I want to study abroad. Today in our honors workshop we had a woman speak to us about study abroad. She brought students who had studied abroad to talk about their experiences. I have wanted to study in France, Africa, and Spain. One of the girls had actually been to Spain and informed us that there was a three hour siesta everyday. Needless to say, Spain is officially at the top of the list.

Last night my friend Stephanie and I were eating dinner together. Midway through our friend Lan-Ahn joined us. Stephanie was teaching me the basics of a simple conversation in French. After we realized that my French accent was just not working out for me, we tried German. I picked the accent up much more quickly. I am actually considering taking German next semester. There are a couple of reasons that I am considering this. First, I need one more semester of a language to fulfill my requirements. Second, Dr. Becker teaches many of the German classes and he is a wonderful professor. Third, as Breanna would say, "Sometimes you have to ask yourself why not!"

So ask yourself why not this weekend, and while you're at it watch The Graduate and listen to "The Sound of Silence."

Love,

law

Come Around Sundown

This is the new Kings of Leon album and it is such a great album you need to buy it all!

I realize I did not blog yesterday; honestly, I was too busy. Yesterday I had my classes as well as jazz practice then FCA praise and worship. It was a wonderful day. I love praise and worship; it is arguably my most favorite thing to do. I am in jazz band with the leader of the FCA band and last month he asked me if I could play the drum for the band. I said yes and it has been such a blessing! Our FCA in high school was never very active. However, here FCA does something at least twice a week and thus has become a part of my weekly schedule. I cannot begin to express how much I love being involved in FCA.

For my honors class we are working on group video projects. Our professor divided us up into groups and my group is Kevin, Curran, and me. We are making an art film using the nature of St. Edward's and other areas of Austin to create a film that works with a song that Curran has selected. The project is time consuming but fun.

This weekend I am participating in a service project. I am going to be working with children and doing crafts! Needless to say, I am super excited! Like I have mentioned before I am quite the little kid at heart and spending six hours with kids is my type of day.

Anyways, I will leave this muse short because you should be listening to the new Kings of Leon album anyways!

Love always friends,

law

If I Die Young-AMT 25

AMT-25

Sunday October 18, 2009 I went to church in Spearman with my family. At church my friend Rosa and I had decided we would go to the movies later. That afternoon we went to the movies and saw Where the Wild Things Are. At 6:32, Rosa and I were walking out of the theater and my phone began ringing, it was my older brother Ryan. He was very calm and collected and told me that there had been a wreck and he thought Ali Tyler had died. 

Rosa and I drove to the Spearman hospital, and Ryan had been right.  Everyone was standing around at the hospital not really knowing what to do. I was by myself so Mattie and I drove home together. After we got home many of our friends gathered at Madison's house. We all sat and looked at each other with blank faces.

The next day at school was to this date the hardest day of my young life so far. You can never be sure how such an event will affect you. I was not Ali's best friend by any means. When Ali was an 8th grader I started taking her to the gym with me in the mornings. I picked up her and Kaysha. Ali and I had our fair share of morning conversations because I picked her up first. Ali and I played basketball together. When she died she was a sophomore and I was a senior. My role on the basketball team was never to be the lead scorer or the girl who played every minute of every game. I tried and still try to maintain a role of a big sister to the younger girls who were on my basketball team. Our team had a bond and a chemistry that you only truly understood if you were apart of it. Many fans, friends, and family could see the chemistry but to understand how close knit of a team we were was almost impossible.

Today is the one year reunion of the accident and it is a struggle. My girls, Steph and Tate have been in my prayers constantly today. I find so much peace in knowing that I serve a loving and caring God who is holding everyone affected by the tragedy.

As for the song of the day, it is the story of what happened October 18, 2009.

With all of my heart,

law

Where the Wild Things Are

I give my regards and sincerest apologies for not blogging yesterday. However, my parents and I watched the Gruver Band get straight one's at marching band contest, got five inches cut off of my hair, and hung out at home-sweet-home. There is nothing like the comfort of your own bed. After two months away, my bed welcomed me with open arms every night I was home; it was blissful. It was wonderful to see my family and many people whom I love very much. Three days was a great amount, not too short, not too long, I'm happy to be back in Austin. Don't get me wrong, I love being home and being with friends and family; but I love Austin, the weather, and my friends and family here as well.

Last year, on the third Sunday of October, I went to see Where the Wild Things Are with my friend Rosa. I love the book and the movie. I haven't seen the movie since the viewing of it that day; maybe I will watch it this week. If you haven't seen it, it is a great movie to see. Also, if you aren't much for movies or don't feel like being open-minded today, just check out the soundtrack; it is a great mixture of genres.

My old high school is in the process of building a new gym, when I was home visiting my coach took me on a tour of the new facility. Needless to say I am quite jealous that I do not get to play a game in the gym.

The Rangers redeemed themselves last night, Feliz Dia! If you didn't catch the pun, you must have missed the game. The next three games in New York should be interesting. I'm almost certain that if the Rangers lose another my brother may need to be admitted to therapy because no matter how many times my dad has told him, he still doesn't understand that "It's just a game."

Today's song of the day, don't laugh too hard. :)

That was fun now wasn't it? At least you know I will always keep you guessing.

Tonight my LLC is having a dinner at Opal's Divine. For those of you who don't know what an LLC is, I will enlighten you. An LLC or Living and Learning Community is a group of students who live together and learn together. More specifically, my LLC, the Honors LLC, is composed of eight girls and six boys. We take our honors class together, live on the same floor of our dorm hall together, and have weekly meetings/outings together. Being in an LLC has definitely made a substantial contribution to my college experience.

Have a blessed week and a wonderful Sunday afternoon.

Love always,

law

Take Me Out to the Ball Game

I left Austin yesterday and flew home for the long weekend to surprise Teague (and others) for her birthday. Being home is nice. The comforts of home are absent from the college life. After having lunch at the El Vaquero with many of my favorite older people, I surprised one of my friends from Spearman. Tonight I had all my girls and coaches over for Mexican Fiesta. I love to cook, which is how Mexican Fiesta began in the first place. My senior year, once or twice every month all the girls came over, I made tons of Mexican food and we all played Apples to Apples. Because I haven't been home for two months, it was definitely time for a fiesta.

As many of you know the Rangers game is on tonight. I never have been much of a Rangers fan, but my brother is a die hard. Some of my friends at college are Rangers fans also. I myself am a sports fan in general and I will holler for the good ole' Texas boys any day. So considering the circumstances, I have become a Rangers fan myself. Just for the record, it's the bottom of the ninth and we are down by one and need to score desperately. Two outs now.....and we are still down by one. Game over, I hope my brother is okay.

Tomorrow is marching band contest. Today I went and watched the band run through their performance; they are phenomenal. I hope they do well tomorrow. I plan on going and watching them then getting an overdue haircut. I just realized how much my hair has grown since I have been gone. I accredit the growth to the wonderful Austin weather of course!

Just keeping with the theme of the weekend, here is the song of the day: CLICK ME!

Ladies, the number one reason you should be a Rangers fan:

Love always,

law

O Captain! My Captain! O CAPTAIN! my Captain! our fearful trip is done; The ship has weather'd every rack, the prize we sought is won; The port is near, the bells I hear, the people all exulting, While follow eyes the steady keel, the vessel grim and daring: But O heart! heart! heart! O the bleeding drops of red, Where on the deck my Captain lies, Fallen cold and dead. O Captain! my Captain! rise up and hear the bells; Rise up--for you the flag is flung--for you the bugle trills; 10 For you bouquets and ribbon'd wreaths--for you the shores a-crowding; For you they call, the swaying mass, their eager faces turning; Here Captain! dear father! This arm beneath your head; It is some dream that on the deck, You've fallen cold and dead. My Captain does not answer, his lips are pale and still; My father does not feel my arm, he has no pulse nor will; The ship is anchor'd safe and sound, its voyage closed and done; From fearful trip, the victor ship, comes in with object won; 20 Exult, O shores, and ring, O bells! But I, with mournful tread, Walk the deck my Captain lies, Fallen cold and dead. -Walt Whitman

"The Dead Poets' Society" is the movie that brings this poem to mind. In the movie Mr. Keating once stands on a desk and tells the boys he teaches to do so also. He does this to encourage them to look at life with a different perspective. I enjoy doing this as well; it is amazing how different the world is a few inches up .

The song of the day is "Canon in D" by Johann Pachelbel. Wonderful isn't it?

There are so many people in my life whom I love. Today was a beautiful day spent with many of these people. I am so blessed to have such an ample amount of wonderful people in my life. Each and every one of you mean the world to me.

The weekend is approaching so dig out your copy of "Dead Poets' Society" listen to Pachelbel and be blessed by those that you love.

Oh Happy Days

Oh Happy Days, the song from Sister Act II, is the song of the day; however, I don't suggest listening to it unless you want it stuck in your head.

At lunch today, I ran into a door pretty hard and hit my head. Dad told me I needed to watch where I was going; I thought I was, but of course Dad is right. Lately, I have been trying to keep my eyes open; sometimes I find this difficult. As many of you know college is a whole new world. Much of what the college life brings is very good. As Dad would say, "Your brain is mush until you are.....(who knows it changes everyday and is dependent on who is around)." Believe me, I know my brain is still mush, but living in the same building with 162 mushy brained people makes you want to close your eyes sometimes. Don't get me wrong, I love dorm life and actually hope to be an RA next year, but there are just those times when you just want to close your eyes and be able to be by yourself. Maybe this is why I hit my head. Either way, I am glad I am at Wid's house babysitting the boys tonight; I get some time to myself, and it's nice.

Tuesday I gave an informative speech over Rapid Eye Movement in my T-Th 8:00 a.m. class. My professor gave me very nice compliments on my speech, and because I gave mine Tuesday, tomorrow I have nothing due for class and only have to attend and listen to speeches. Public speaking is feared among the masses. However, I have never had a fear of public speaking; it seems to just flow naturally for me. I almost find a sense of peace when I step up to the podium to begin a speech. I have over the years spoke on many topics. Although I am not a communication major, I hope to be able to continue my public speaking career. Actually after I just finished that sentence I had a friend call me asking for help on her speech, how funny.

Lately I have been listening to the "Imagine" by John Lenon station on Pandora radio. I have came to the conclusion that it is fabulous.

I talked to my grandmother and granddad this morning. They are so special to me. My grandmother told me it was cold this morning in Gruver. I looked on my phone's weather app, she was right, it was forty-six degrees. As much as I want to be home at times, this morning wasn't one of those times. It was sixty-two in Austin, my type of weather.

Love always,

law

100 Years

100 Years by Five for Fighting is the song of the day. I was in love with this song around the age of thirteen. It's a beautiful melodic composition; you won't waste your time. As for time, Curran and I have been discussing time all day long. Curran is being especially ornery today and therefore has provoked an agitation within my thought process. He is pushing my buttons, and he knows it. Now that I am writing about this, I also find it rather amusing. Either way one of the conclusions I have came to today is that time is just a label that society defines their existence by. If one happens to take time out of the equation they are virtually left with life. I find it rather difficult to live those days without the reliance on time. I am ready for a summer day when I can be at my grandparents house and not even look at the clock thinking of what I must do at a certain time. Time compromises our experiences in life. I realize that we cannot live without time in our society; I just like to ponder upon why such a thing is so important to us.

If you have not seen "Into the Wild" I strongly suggest you watch it. There is also a book, but watch the movie first. I won't ruin the movie for you but the main character, Christopher McCandless, leaves society completely and goes into the wild. I often find distinct similarities between McCandless and myself. I aspire to do something similar in the near future. Not necessarily leave everyone with no knowledge of where I am going, but just going in general. I find myself somewhat of a nomad. Not to say that I don't have a home and that I don't love my home, just that the world has so much to offer to me. I refuse to be confined to a world created by man; I will see the beauty of God's creation unconstrained by the chains of society. Like I said, I will give a heads up but if one day I do randomly disappear from the blogging world for a time period,  I could quite possibly off experiencing life in its full capacity, without the constraints of society and have gone somewhat "into the wild".

I have been thinking about Christmas lately. The fact that it is Christmas in my car year round could quite possibly be the cause of this thinking. I want to work some over Christmas break. However, I have recently been researching college mission trips over Christmas break. I have started to pray about this possibility; if you are a spiritual person, I would ask for you to pray over this for me as well. It is a little late to think about missions for Christmas and I don't really have the funding either. However, I am going to pray about it nonetheless and see where God takes this. I have faith that the means will be provided if this is supposed to happen.

Did you listen to "Imagine"? If you didn't, please do, it could take your mind to a whole new world of creativity.

Yesterday I received the nicest compliment about my blog. I know by my view count that I have a decent amount of readers, but the comment surprised me. The man who had expressed kind words about my musings was one that I met on a Youth Tour trip in the summer of 2008 to Washington D.C. I had won a speech contest for my county's Electric Cooperative and received an all expense paid trip to D.C. for nine days. He happened to be one of the sponsors on the trip. The trip to Washington was one of the greatest experiences of my young life thus far. I met such amazing people and had the most wonderful nine day experience. I talk to people who I met on the trip on a weekly/monthly basis. Opportunities like this are common; sometimes you just have to be on the look out for them.

Today's blog has been very scattered. I do apologize, as Davin would say, my brain is still mush. I also would like to note that if you would me to muse about anything specific about college, life, and such that I have not mentioned in my postings please feel free to express this. However, I am in no way implying that I am running out of things to muse about. Just consider that even though curiosity killed the cat, satisfaction brought it back.

As Shakira  would say, "This one's for AFRICA!"

Love, love, love,

law

Beautiful Day

Although "Imagine" by John Lenon is the song of the day, "Beautiful Day" by U2 is where this muse begins. I listen to my iTunes when I walk to class everyday. I have a morning playlist that I listen to and that I add songs to frequently. This morning I was feeling rather spontaneous and decided to throw my iPhone on shuffle. My music taste is very eclectic and my playlist is rather large so considering the circumstances this was a big change for my ears on my morning stroll to class. I was in between the Ragsdale Center and Andre Hall and suddenly "Beautiful Day" comes on. My memory ventures back to a car ride with my family. I don't remember how old I was but I know I was fairly young, 4th or 5th grade perhaps. You must understand that my parents, mainly my dad, loves U2. I remember distinctly this car ride. Mom was driving and I was sitting behind her, Dad in the passenger seat, Ryan behind him, and Reid in the back. There are two reasons which aided me in concluding that I was young. First, We were all in "White Lightening", our family suburban. Second, Reid was in the back. This is significant because when Reid and I were younger we were unable to sit withing three feet of each other without fighting. Anyways, "Beautiful Day" begins to play in the car. My dad, you must understand, can quite frankly bust a move on the dance floor (he is my favorite dancing partner). However, his jiving skills in the car are on the other end of the spectrum. Nonetheless, he jams out, no matter who is in the car. So of course he is proceeding to sing at the top of his lungs to "Beautiful Day" while playing his infamous air guitar; the funny thing is I look to my right and Ryan is doing the same thing. I'm pretty sure Reidy must've been out like a light in the back (he's never had trouble sleeping in cars). My dad sometimes gets a bit rowdy in his car jiving and so without fail this is what happens:

Teague: "Davin, Davin, STOP IT!" Davin: "Teague, it's U2 come on!!!" Teague: "Davin, I'm trying to drive!" Davin: "Oh come on Teague, it's a beautiful day (going into the air guitar solo)! 

Moments like these with my family I will cherish forever. It's rare that we are ever in a car together anymore, but reminiscing on the good ole' days is always fun; and this morning I walked to Premont with a huge smile on my face jamming out to "Beautiful Day", and believe me so far it has been.

If you know me, you know that I have a serious fetish with shoes. Recently, I have also acquired a similar fondness for bandannas. Assessing the amounts I have both, I have come to the conclusion that my fetish is not with shoes and bandannas; it is with bright colors. Most every pair of shoes I own are insanely bright colors, as are the bandannas. I love color. My mac book case is orange, my running shoes are yellow, the bandanna I am wearing right now is hot pink. Most people avoid buying colorful shoes; I however, try and find the most radiant pair for the cheapest price.

I really don't have a favorite pair of shoes, however I am particularly fond of all of my TOMS. TOMS is a company that sells shoes to help buy shoes for children. With every pair of TOMS you buy you also buy a pair for a child in need. TOMS are also fashionable and I find them very comfortable. I aspire to work as an intern for the TOMS shoes company in the next few years. Keep in mind this is not set in stone it's just on the list, which like I have said before, is rather long. TOMS aren't too expensive so check them out and buy a pair. Might I suggest sizing your foot to fit them before purchasing though; they tend to run large.

While you are browsing the selection of TOMS shoes on their website: www.toms.com listen to "Imagine" by John Lenon, it is the song of the day for crying out loud!

Existentialism=Friendship

law

Five Little Monkeys Jumping On the Bed

Today I went to mass at St. John Neuman Catholic church. I wanted to go to mass in the day time because mass at the college is at nine at night. I could've gone to the 10:30 a.m. mass at college, but I didn't wake up until 11:00 a.m. I was around five minutes late to mass and walked in with another couple college kids and so the usher proceeded to seat us...at the very front. I smiled to myself thinking of how something similar would've happened in my hometown. The priest was Nigerian which made feel even more at home because I actually had to concentrate to understand the priest just like I do back home.

In my last blog I said I would write about the Yoda fiasco in my family. First, understand that on my mother's side of the family we are super competitive and it's an every man for himself environment. I don't remember exactly when but a few years back one of my aunts got this little Yoda figurine that talks. The Yoda was stolen again and again from multiple houses until somehow the Yoda ended up at my house. Seeing the Yoda key chain made me recall this event. I was talking to my aunt and told her to Yoda was at our house. She told me there was no way that Yoda was upstairs. I laughed and said go check she went up the stairs looked and of course like I had told her Yoda was gone. Needless to say she flipped out and couldn't believe that Yoda had been stolen once again. Therefore, the endless circle of theft and competition is never ending. The Johnston's are ruthless and I love it.

Tonight I had to watch the movie "Leila" for my honors class. The movie is in Arabic; I hated it and don't suggest it. The movie is as slow as "Lawrence of Arabia" and as boring as "Master and Commander: Far Side of the World". The reason I sat through the whole movie is because we have a possible quiz over it tomorrow in class. I hope my dedication pays off.

Claire has been doing make-up on people for her class all night tonight. She turned Diane, a girl in our LLC, into a woman who had been beat up in a bar. Now she is turning Noah, our devoted RA and Claire's cousin, into an old man. She is very adept with make-up. Claire also has a beautiful voice. She's this tiny little thing not even five foot, and she has the voice of a 'big ole black woman' as stereotypical as that sounds. It is interesting to find out everyone's talents. God has gifted my roommate with some pretty amazing abilities if I do say so myself; Claire is one special girl.

It is time for this muse to come to an end. Just for kicks remember the five little monkeys jumping on the bed, one fell off and bumped his head, momma called the doctor and the doctor said, "NO MORE MONKEYS JUMPING ON THE BED!"

The song of the day is "Our Love" by Paul Cardall, you can only find it on YouTube, or that was the only place I have found it. There are no words, but give it a chance. Here is the link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0SzMdgGCFPc

Love always,

law

May the Force Be With You

Last night the Givers concert was fabulous! We went when the doors opened at ten; however, the Givers didn't preform until twelve-thirty making for a long night. All things considered it was totally worth it! My friend Stephanie, her boy friend, and me were front and center rocking out like there would be no tomorrow. One of the lead singers took the liberty of getting a haircut. Being a country girl and all, the five inches of hair gone improved his look immensely.

Today I have been babysitting the Comer boys (my cousins), it has been an eventful day to say the least. Patrick (oldest) wanted to go to the mall to see a movie. Alex (middle) was gone to a friends so Patrick, Will, and I loaded up into the suburban, went and picked up Patty's friends then proceeded to drive to the mall. We went inside and Patrick went into the movies, so Will and I decided we should walk around the mall. I have never been a big fan of malls, or shopping in general so Will and I got along just great. We rode the train, looked in the LEGO store, and had a shake a Chick-fil-A. I learned later that Will wanted to walk around because that's what Patrick did when he came to the mall. I remember having similar desires as a child. Having two older brothers myself, I always wanted to do what they were doing, including playing football. So even if it was with me, Will got to be "cool" and walk around the mall. When it was getting close to time when Patrick's movie was supposed to end, we headed back to the movie theater (I was making sure we met Patrick so he didn't decide to walk around the mall for a couple hours). We were a bit early so Will and I decided to play arcade games; this is where it gets bad. Will and I had some serious fun playing arcade games and in the meantime I lost the keys to the suburban. I really don't know how this happened, because I am the person who is constantly checking my wallet to see if my credit card and license are there; and I'm always checking for my keys. Will and I searched high and low, retraced all our steps, and still no keys. Wid and Peter told me there were extra keys at home. I then proceeded to call my friend Monique who came and picked me up to go get the keys. Needless to say, Patrick got to walk around the mall for an hour......epic fail.

After our mall escapade we came home to make dinner and just hang out. I made sloppy joes, okra, and tater tots, boy food of course. The boys decided after dinner they wanted to swim in their boxers; all I can say is that boys will be boys. I love babysitting the Comer boys; we always have fun.

Today I talked to Teague Style (my mom). I love her, A LOT. Being at college, I really miss her sometimes. Don't get me wrong I miss my dad like crazy too, mom and I just saw much more of each other on a daily basis. Teague would let my dog Reggie in the house to jump in bed and wake me up in the mornings every morning which is much more appealing than waking up to an alarm. I would get out of bed and then she would have breakfast or coffee ready, sometimes both. We listened to music and talked in the bathroom while we got ready for the morning. Now that I think about it, I imagine her mornings are a lot more peaceful and a bit longer since I'm gone. She would pick me up for lunch everyday while Katie G and I proceeded to bicker in the car. At night she would sit in her chair with Booty (Reggie) while we just talked and gave luvins. Teague and I have given each other luvins since I was a baby. Luvins is just our creative name for cuddling or hugging. I'm not a big hugger or touchy person, but luvins with Teague is just bliss.

Curran would refer to luvins as "hugging it out" which he assures me the world needs more of. Curran and I hug it out frequently. Believe me, being in college calls for some serious hugs sometimes. I don't really like YouTube, but this video is definitely worth the time.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vr3x_RRJdd4

Today, tomorrow, or even the next day, give some luvins, hug it out, give a free hug.

Carpe Diem,

law


(The title of the blog is such because the keys that I lost had a Yoda on them. Yoda is also a character that has caused some serious hostility in my family; we can discuss this next time.)

Coyotes

Bombing in Cologne

Song of the day, Coyotes by Richard Thompson. My oldest brother Ryan introduced me to this song, it is epic.

So the picture above is one Dr. Becker showed us in a recent lecture. Notice all the other houses and buildings in the picture are demolished excluding the Cathedral. In theory, the Cathedral shouldn't have stood the bombing either. This reminds me of a similar story dealing with a church back home. I don't remember what church but either way, the church burned down. However, the Paschal candle was still standing in the church after the fire. Think about it, one of the most flammable things in the church is unaltered by the fire; this gives me goosebumps.

I'm glad it's the weekend. Even though I have homework to do this weekend, there will be time for rest. Weekends in Austin are very relaxed to me. Provided this weekend ACL is happening, the city is a bit more active. Someday I would like to go to ACL, this year just isn't the year.

It doesn't seem like October to me. This is most likely due to the fact that Austin is still eighty-five degrees. I love Austin weather. My mom's mom, Noni shares a similar view with me on weather. She never likes to come visit us back in Gruver in the winter because it is just too cold. Some people don't really understand why you couldn't just wear a jacket, but I completely understand why she won't visit in the winter! Last year in Gruver I think the first snow came in October, while I'm still wearing shorts and flip-flops in Austin.

If you know me you know that I absolutely love to cook. At college it is difficult to cook in the dorms. It is nice to have my aunt close so I can hang out with her boys and cook whenever I feel like it. She takes care of me; I love her and all the boys very much. I really miss cooking though. So just for me, cook something this weekend. If you are brave, don't follow  recipe; don't be scared, I never use recipes. One of my favorite things to do when cooking is to use random ingredients that people normally wouldn't think go with certain things. Believe me, it's a lot of fun and if you never write down your recipes (I always fail to do this) you always get to create a new masterpiece!

I am at this point officially starting my weekend and going to take a nap. I need to rest up for the GIVERS concert tonight anyways!!!

As Claire would say, "Peace and blessings,"

law

The Farmer's Daughter

For over half of my life, I was a farm kid. My brothers would argue that I never did much on the farm. However, today my general knowledge of "getting your hands dirty" came in handy. My next door neighbor and loyal comrade Curran Kelley is to say the least, a city boy. Today he comes to me telling me his car is making a weird grinding noise. I proceed to ask him if he has checked his oil lately, he then told me his light hadn't come on. I smiled and told him he was really a city boy. I asked him if he knew how to check his oil, he didn't. Now, mind you, I am no car expert but I do know how to check my oil so I proceeded to check Curran's oil. Needless to say, his car was in desperate need of oil. I never really enjoyed driving tractor, working cattle, or learning the simple things that are learned working on a farm. However, today I smiled thinking about how Granddad and Dad would have just laughed at the situation and smiled at the thought of me checking my best guy friend's oil in his car. I was kind of glad this happened today, because it was about the time I checked my car's oil as well.

Tomorrow my LLC and I are going to the Givers concert at Emo's. The Givers recently played a showed at the college; I loved it! I am excited that tomorrow is Friday, going to see the Givers is just an added bonus.

Today I talked to my best guy friend from home, Parker Heinz. Parker and I have been friends probably since we were potty training. We have been through just about everything together, and he is always there for me no matter what kind of a day I'm having. Parker is silly and pushes my buttons, but he is a genuine friend and I love him and my friendship that I have with him.

Wednesday in my honors class we were talking about how much we read as a child and how TV affected us when we were younger. I chuckled to myself thinking of the note that my parents put on our TV stand, "Expand your mind, read a book." Not to say I didn't watch TV as a kid, but believe me our family did some serious reading.

Today I decided to sum up how many hours of homework I have done this week thus far; the magic number is twenty seven. Welcome to college eh? The funny thing is, I actually enjoy most of it, for now at least.

Curran and I are headed out to Wal-Mart to pick up some oil for his car so today's blogging must come to a close.

Today's suggestion, listen to "Up, Up, Up" by the Givers and check the oil in your car.

Find your way to me,

law

40 Day Dream

40 Day Dream by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros is today's song of the day. This is my song, not Dr. Becker's.

Today was of course full of wonderful surprises. My classes for the day went well. In my honors class we are reading Persepolis. It is a comic book/graphic novel/memoir, and it is interesting to say the least; pick it up the next time you are at Half Price Books.

After classes my friend Monique had asked me to go with her to the Chase Tower to speak to John Cornyn's regional manager of public relations. We went to advocate the LRA bill. I have always been interested in our government and policy. Needless to say, I enjoyed the meeting very much. Monique is very passionate about Invisible Children; this makes me smile.

So while Monique, Stephanie, and I were walking out of our meeting I mentioned to the girls how I wanted to go to The Strokes concert tonight but it was sold out. Stephanie and I had decided to go on a run down at Town Lake. While we were walking from parking to the trail I get a text from LJ my hometown friend who also attends school in Austin telling me he has two tickets to the concert and they are mine if I want them. I called my aunt to see if she wanted to go with me and not an hour later we were standing at Stubbs waiting for The Strokes to come on stage! The concert was amazing; it was such a great night!

There is more I could say but I feel the need to keep it short and sweet. Today, being tomorrow for many of you who will read this I suggest listening to "Reptillia" by The Strokes. If you have the opportunity play it on Guitar Hero!

Smile,

law

The Ghost of Tom Joad

"The Ghost of Tom Joad", by Bruce Springsteen is the song of the week. It was Dr. Becker's song of the day last Wednesday; however, it is on repeat on my playlist. Why am I so fond of this song? The song features a harmonica. I love the harmonica; it is arguably my favorite instrument. I have never learned to play one, but it's on the list (the list is quite long; ask my parents). Neil Young also has a song with a harmonica feature that I am quite fond of, "Comes a Time", don't listen to it live if you can avoid it. There is a gold chest in my room at home that has a harmonica in it. Often times as a child I remember blowing on it curiously as any youngster would do. I believe the harmonica is my great grandfather's; the love must run in the family.

Today is a Tuesday, which means I have an eight o'clock class followed immediately by another class. I wasn't feeling all too well in my first class; my stomach was upset. I was rationalizing in my head how imperative it was for me to attend my next class. I was going to just bear with it as much as I just wanted to go back to the dorms and lie down. I proceeded to converse with God about how I just didn't want to bear another hour and fifteen minutes of class. Turns out God didn't think I needed to bear the class out either; I went to the next class and there was a note the door "class canceled". He is so good to me. I love receiving the little gifts He surprises me with each day. Prayer to me is just conversation with God constantly throughout the day. I try to keep in mind that every conversation I engage in each day God is a part of. I have never been the "Dear God" person, maybe at dinner, but even then. He is my friend, my protector, my father, my romancer.

A couple weeks ago I was volunteering in a service project. I ended up cutting my leg open and needing stitches. The staff at St. Edward's are fabulous and assisted me in every aspect of the endeavor. The man who dropped me off at the hospital was named Lou Cerna. I was with him for maybe five or ten minutes. My stitches were taken out last week and the events of that weekend have long faded from my thoughts. However, today I checked my mail and there was a Hallmark card in my box, from Lou. What a thoughtful man. This was one of the other gifts God provided in my day thus far.

One of the girls across the hall and I have recently dubbed that it shall be Christmas all year long, well at least in my car. We ventured out on a Starbucks trip today, and as we always do on our outings, proceeded to blare Christmas music during our journey. Although this may sound silly, think about it, celebrating Christ's birthday all year round, what a concept! So for today, if I may be so bold, I propose you go for a drive and listen to Christmas music; roll the windows down; the weather is fabulous. Believe me, God loves accompanying Breanna and I on our Christmas singing adventures in my car; He will love accompanying you as well.

Did you listen to Mr. Bojangles? How was it? It just started playing, that is why I ask.

I have learned it is all the little things in life that bring happiness. Just because I am becoming quite fond of listing (thank you Grandmother) I will give you my little things happiness list and bid you adieu.

-songs of the day
-packages from home
-time with the Comer boys
-leaving notes on the mirror for Claire (my roommate)
-Christmas in the car
-standing on furniture
-strolling around campus
-hugging it out with Curran Kelley
-white v-neck t-shirts
-coffee
-skyping my parents
-sitting in the many hallways of Dujarie hall
-playing the guitar
-FCA
-listening
-Magnolia cafe
-fro-yo
-dreaming of Africa

Merry Christmas, love love love,

law

A Penny for Your Thoughts

I've ventured into the world of blogging a couple times in previous years; I hope this time to remain a somewhat consistent blogger. Given the circumstances, being away at college and all, I find that I am not able to communicate with people I care dearly about as often as I would like; thus, the purpose of this blog. I hope you too find it informative on the events of my life and by no means think of it as a way that I am trying to disregard talking to each of you on a more personal note.

The new chapter I have recently begun in my life is full of excitement and adventure. God has taken me by the hand and has shown me a whole new piece of His creation. He has introduced me to many wonderful, beautiful people. Austin is a beautiful place to live. As much as I love the high plains of the Texas Panhandle, Austin truly has captivated my heart. I attend a school that is stunningly beautiful. The campus is clean; the buildings involve architecture that is breathtaking; and the people God has introduced me to are such beautiful people. I have never been more content in an environment. The struggles associated with college life become minute when I simply take a stroll around campus. It's amazing to think that before I was even a thought to my parents that God was making this college into a place just for me.

I have a professor who is well known around campus. His name is Dr. Becker. Every morning of class Dr. Becker begins class with a song. He asks that there is no talking, no texting, no moving, just listening to the music. I love this part of class. Primarily because this is an earlier class and listening to music before a lecture is calming. Second, Dr. Becker has great taste in music. Today's song was Mr. Bojangles by Jerry Jeff Walker. Sitting there listening to the song took me back to a Friday night last spring playing guitar at Toy's R Us. It was a lovely three minutes and fifty-six seconds.

There are the things I miss about home: people, my dogs, the food at the El Vaquero, and of course, the stars. There are a few diamonds in the sky of Austin. However, nothing compares to the stars at home. I don't know what my future holds, but I don't think Gruver is where I will be living anytime soon. My dad has told me on many occasions that God is always with me wherever I am; and that I will be fine wherever life takes me. At times I think he says this more for his reassurance rather than mine. As much of a free-spirited, independent child that I am, I have never been more thankful for their guidance in my life. And just for the record, I cannot wait to see where God has me living after college, I get jittery just thinking about it. I personally hope it is a world away from where I am living now....literally. I dream of France, Spain, and Africa, living with the children of the world. A child is God's most pure being in society. Why would I not want to immerse myself in such a life? I have always had a love for being a kid. To me silly songs and Simon Says never get old. Taking all of the complexities out of life and living as a child of God with children of God; breathtaking isn't it?


Anyways, I must continue with my paper. However, present any comments, questions, or musings of your own; I will not disregard them by any means.

Now minimize this screen; turn your phone on silent; go to playlist.com and listen to Mr. Bojangles; see what happens.

Love always,

law