it's a beautiful day

Wedding Dress Shopping - oh my!

2012-01-31T19:39:00.000-08:00

In case you hadn't noticed my facebook updates lately, I just recently became engaged to the most incredible man! I'm still waiting for the pictures from the engagement to explain how it all went down (it's a really great story if you ask me). In the mean time, I've been planning away and I've actually gotten a lot of stuff done. Church, venue and photographer are all set plus we might get the caterer squared away soon. There's just one thing that's turned into a thorn in my side...it's white and sometimes poofy and always expensive. You guessed it, the wedding dress. THE wedding dress that you wear on your big day - that dress your kids will laugh at and make fun of in 20 years. "But it was so trendy at the time!" is what I will defensively say. It was really fun the first couple of stores but now they all look the same. I'm getting restless and confused - first world problems if you ask me but it's just my life right now. You wouldn't believe all the fees that they've come up with. (I realize I sound like the 50 yr old dad paying for the wedding). $300 to get a hem, $200 rush fee, oh you want lace right there? $200 smackaroo's. And the veils! Oh the veils! $250 for literally a piece of tool or whatever literally hot glued on a hair clip. That will be my something borrowed or something DIY'd.

I invited Dustin's mom and step mom to come along for the exciting search for the dress. They were both so helpful, sweet and supportive (as well as my mom!) but still...nothing. I've been to 6 stores and found one dress that I LOVE but it's a little over our planned budget. Homegirl's about to throw the budget thing out the window (just for the dress) after tomorrow if I don't find anything as gorgeous. And if you know me at all, you know I'm the one that's sticking to the strict budget saying, "no! that's too expensive, don't even bring it in the dressing room!" I'm that girl that says at the beginning, "we are on a budget - we can spend X amount of dollars." I'm not scared, those little women don't scare me with their "wedding in June? we might need to rush that" bullying. I wasn't born yesterday, don't try to sell me a $500 embellished belt. You know who you are. Just because I'm a bride to be doesn't mean you can try to stress me out or empty my pockets with your rush fees and $100 off sale ending tomorrow business.

Every dress I try on, I imagine myself walking down the aisle and seeing Dustin sweet face and adorable dimples looking right at me! Eeeeek! That man is the most precious thing on the face of the planet - he sent me flowers today at work just b/c he thinks it's really corny/less special to send flowers on Valentines Day and I totes agree. And the note - oh the note that was attached - made me cry! If it were up to my sweet fiance we would just have icicle lights and mimosas at our wedding - I'm beginning to think he might have it all figured out. I can't wait for our big day together - crazy in love surrounded by family and friends starting our new life together. Bliss.

This is the crazy expensive dress that I might take the plunge in the budget for....NOT. Seriously, though...what the what?!?

2011 - picture style

2012-01-04T19:51:00.000-08:00

Yes, you read your blog roll correctly. I have actually written a blog post! I loved Christie's review of 2011 and thought I would do the same since I haven't been updating on here. Better late than never, right? 2011 has brought me so much JOY, fun!, friends, happiness, adventure and...love! Here is my year in pictures - enjoy!

(January) Preston took me to Rick Perry's watch party AND his inaugration ball. I know NOTHING about politics so Preston was a risk taker by inviting me. Live country music, men in suits and cowboy boots - my kind of party!

(April) In the spring, Courtney and Stacy threw a party called the hipster hop party. Everyone dressed up as a local Austinite hipster and danced the night away. Skinny jeans, beards, plaid shirts and funky glasses. Definitely one of my favorite moments from 2011. I kinda liked the neck tats - mom wasn't so amused.

(May) Memorial day weekend we celebrated my big 25th birthday on the river! It was stinking HOT outside so it felt great to float that day. There were about 12-15 ish in our crew and they sang me happy birthday about 4 or 5 times on the river. I felt very special. Another 2011 all-star moment. And then the summer of 2011 began. Oh me oh my...so many fun memories.
(May) Abby Willbanks Dunagan landed me an awesome job with a fantastic company. I started working as the secretary for Boundless in May and moved up since. I work with an AMAZING group of young women! Seriously, the most social, fun and relaxed work environment of all time. Abby, Ryan, Marie and I all work together from ACU.

(June) I would be a poser if I let you believe I laid out at Barton Springs all day everyday like a true Austinite. It turns out I actually don't like Barton Springs. The day I took this picture I started to eat a peach while there was a couple smoking pot behind me and a lady literally walking around naked. Guess who got in trouble from the life guard?? This girl. Not the pot head or the nudist, but the blonde chick with a peach. Not to mention there's a ton of bees out there too. Not my ideal laying out environment.

(July) We went to the ghostland observatory concert in San Marcos. Glow sticks, lasers, sweat...epic. Highly recommend even if you've never heard of them - yet another night of dancing!

I attended blues on the green every other Wednesday in the summer. Austin puts on a free concert and so many people come out! You can see Dustin in the background which later on in 2011 this night is a very memorable night that is now talked about..."that one night at blues on the green" I'll explain a little later...

(July?) Elena and I went to Dallas to visit our sweet, dear friends Kim and Emily. It was our second year of getting together - hopefully they will make it to Austin this summer. The 4 of us met in college in Sigma Theta Chi. Love love love these girls!

(August) We took a fun weekend trip to Dan's mom's house out in the country. I LOVE this picture of the 5 of us! A lot of fun memories were made this weekend, yet again!

...and then Dustin and I re-connected. In 5 short months I have fallen in love with the most incredible man any girl could ever ask for! I had no idea that there were men out there like Dustin and I really had no clue that I was deserving of this kind of love. He is the most attentive, sweet, kind, genuine, forgiving, understanding, compassionate, interesting, adventurous man. Just one of the many examples he left me a voice memo (like a vm but longer) on my phone this morning, telling me he was praying for me and read off a few scriptures that he thought would encourage me with what I was going through. And the best part is that isn't abnormal of him to do that. We have done SO many things in the past few months!! UT football games, high school football games (he coaches football at Cooper high school), trapeze lessons, dodgeball, family road trips, motorcycle rides, dreaming of the future. And I can't wait to see what 2012 has in store for us - plenty of adventures I just know it. The best part about Dustin is that he loves God and is seeking out God's will for his life - I can't wait to be a part of that ministry! I hope you enjoyed my review of 2011 - and hopefully it won't take me a year to post again!

Inspiration

2011-04-21T07:33:00.000-07:00

I can't wait to finally have my own space to decorate. After moving around wayyy too much the past 2 years...it's about time for me to settle down somewhere. Luckily, I have everything in the above picture except the headboard which I will start looking for wood to copy this fabulous piece. This picture seriously makes me swoon.

Oh and this chick? She's way cooler than I will ever even attempt to be but how cute is that bandana!? Or is it a scarf? I might, key word MIGHT attempt this look this summer. Maybe with my white linen pants? Yep, I think it's going to be attempted but maybe not documented.

Peace. Love. Scarves.

Someone Like You

2011-04-13T20:37:00.000-07:00

Adele is coming to Austin this summer! I can't stop watching this video partially because her accent is awesome and partially because this song speaks to me, almost a little too much. Enjoy.

The Man Who Never Cried

2011-02-03T11:04:00.000-08:00

I used to enjoy going to the ACU Film Fest because it is so cool to see people my age that are very talented in something I have NO knowledge about. Well, I've met a few guys from Austin Stone that are beyond talented in the film industry!! They made a short film called, "The Man Who Never Cried" and it is SO good! In fact, their film is up for a national award with the doorpost film project. They have received excellent reviews from the producer of That 70's Show and the writer of Big Fish and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The creepy brother from Wedding Crashers is the main character along with an actress from Friday Night Lights. It's about 20 minutes long and I think you will like it. Enjoy!

go to www.thedoorpost.com and click on "the man who never cried"

Black Swan Review & Bachelor Predictions

2011-01-30T23:33:00.000-08:00

I was so mortified through 3 really uncomfortable scenes that I finally left. I was embarrassed and I was there with my friend who is my age. I can't even imagine what I would've done if I was there with a BOY!!!!

Trust me when I say, DO NOT see this movie! I don't care how "artsy" a movie is, there should never be sex scenes that graphic. Ever. What are movies going to be like when we have kids? Call me old fashioned but what I saw tonight was absolutely not okay!

In other news...I am obsessed with Emily from the Bachelor. She is such a sweet little southern bell who I think will be picked! He'd be crazy not to pick her...

Could she be any cuter?!?

East Side

2011-01-25T20:45:00.000-08:00

On Saturday night I went to dinner with Stacy and her lovely roommate Courtney (Cox). Yep, she has the same name as a celebrity! Anyways, we went to literally one of the coolest restaurants in Austin. East Austin used to be the dangerous part of town that you never ventured to explore but in the past few years it has been turned into a very cool part of Austin. Ok, well it's still kind of dangerous but the areas where restaurants and bars have come in to renovate are very unique. We went to the east side show room for dinner. It has a 20's/30's vibe and I loved every second of it. Not only was the vibe awesome, the food was even better. Prices...not so much. Let's just say Courtney ordered a cup of soup and a croissant and it was around $10. Stacy and I each got a cup of chicken curry soup (yum!!) and we split a spinach, ricotta and pecan lasagna. Top 3 best lasagna's I've ever had....hands down. Divine.

Did I mention they play black and white films on the wall in the dining room?

so

darn

cute.

Sunday morning after we went to church Stacy and I went to Snack Bar on South Congress for lunch. "Soco" as some people refer to it is by far my favorite part of Austin for multiple reasons and Snack Bar just got added to the list of reasons. I had a fried egg sandwich...the perfect compromise to the age old question on Sunday..."do I want breakfast or lunch!?"

If you don't live in Austin, you need to make a road trip there stat/asap/now/on the fly/pronto/quickly. 100% guaranteed great time!

"Texas Texas Texas!!"

2011-01-19T11:54:00.000-08:00

Preston got an invite to go to the inauguration ball so I accompanied him last night in Austin. Let me just say that I literally know very little to nothing about politics nor do I really care to know (sorry, P). Preston absolutely loves events like that so he can network and meet people which is why I'm a good friend to invite because I'd rather be two stepping and eating dessert than networking with politicians. Preston will drift off and do his thing while I drift off and do my thing. Win win. Eli Young Band, Pat Green and Clay Walker performed which was an awesome night of country music.

I love observing the politicians and how they present themselves. There were 2 other guys there besides Preston that I was hanging out with and luckily they didn't know a lot about politics either so I wasn't alone. We were cracking up about how every politician has the same hand gestures and they always comment about how amazing and beautiful their wife is. And the background music to their videos literally sound like an intense movie trailer. In one of the Governor's speeches he just yelled, "Texas! Texas! Texas!!!" It was awesome.

As cheesy as some of it was, it made me so happy to be a part of Texas history. If you don't know me very well you should know that I'm pretty obsessed with Texas. Like, I don't ever want to leave. If my children aren't born here I will be sad. If Texas secedes, I will support.

You get the picture.

Miss Texas (rodeo) was walking around in her get up, I saw a couple of bow ties that looked like Texas flags and I witnessed a few professional two stepping couples all of which made me oddly happy. My loyalty to this state is somewhat ridiculous but makes complete sense to me.

Preston always jokes about how he looks "chinese" in every picture so I couldn't help but notice how HUGE my eyes look compared to his eyes!! (Yes, I'm aware that my eyeballs are massive and stick out of my eye sockets)

Enjoy your beautiful day no matter what part of the country you may be in!

"The stars at night are big and bright....deep in the heart of Texas!"

Chasing Pavements

2011-01-16T12:56:00.000-08:00

Do you ever hear a song and think, "oh I want to download this when I get home." Then you get home and can't remember for the life of you what song you were talking about? Well, this has been going on for about a few months with Adele's song "Chasing Pavements." Ugh, I love it! And I FINALLY remembered what song I had been wanting to download. Yes, this is how my brain works maybe I'm alone in this but who knows?

In other news, life is weird. Good, but weird. You know when you're little and you think everything is peachy keen. You don't have to worry about the weird random stuff that adult's have to worry about. Bills, relationships, failure, vulnerability, conflict, economies. I've had a weird past 2 weeks with the cherry on top from today's happenings. Apparently, mentioning a boy on the blog is the official kiss of death. Ok so I'm being a little dramatic but it was a mutual decision that we both are from completely(!) different families which results in a lot of differing views about core values and beliefs. It makes me want to put on my jellies, crimp my hair and eat ice cream like all is well with the world and no one will disappoint or hurt me.

I am so controlling that I seriously think I will somehow be able to avoid vulnerability altogether until I meet my husband. I'm realizing, umm that's impossible unfortunately. If it is possible, let me know but so far arranged marriages is the only logical solution. Bummer.

No, but seriously the next time I mention a boy on the blog it will be an engagement announcement because otherwise I would have to be vulnerable enough to mention how I'm feeling and that's just absurd! (kidding, of course)

*****self pity ends....here.

When things don't go my way and I cry about it, luckily I have friends who empathize while also encouraging me which makes me SO thankful. Like, SO thankful. Without friends, I'd be in a world of hurt!! So to that, I say thanks! =)

Awesome & Awkward

2011-01-13T10:12:00.000-08:00

Awesome

-my mint colored nail polish
-the way God works
-my mom offering to come in town for mani-pedi's when i've had a weird week
-Kona grill's margharita pizza omg, i couldn't stop eating
-Bob Marley
-stores in SA that are in Austin that make me feel like I'm in Austin aka Whole Earth Provision
-this dress
-TCBY's reese's peanut butter cup topping. thank you for not freezing your peanut butter cups and only using fresh ones. seriously, thanks.
-The Message Bible
-encouraging phone calls from my big brother, Ashton
-my niece feeding hunter his brownie a la mode. it became brownie a la hunter's pants. oh and then after getting ice cream and brownie all over him she tooted in his lap.

Awkward

-a girl my age using a check. really? a check? you still use those?
-a guy shaking my hand for too long while asking me out in front of his grandma. i can't even make this stuff up
-trying to get my apartment key out of the little pocket inside my shorts when my neighbor comes out just as it looks like I'm digging around in my pants
-waiting on a party who has someone presenting something. do you know what i mean? i have to sneak in and whisper, "ma'am would you like some more water?" so embarrassing!
-a customer who remembered what I was wearing on NYE and openly admitted it
-carding people and they quickly respond, "ugh yeah I'm 25." sorry! it's my job, lady.

1800's

2011-01-11T12:55:00.000-08:00

It's been about a month or so since I last posted and man, has a lot happened in the past month!

Remember the family that brought their son in to the restaurant so we could meet? Well, it turns out we really like each other. Funny, huh? It definitely makes for a great story! His parents are completely normal, if you were wondering what kind of people would drag their son into a restaurant to meet the waitress. We all giggle about it now. His name is Hunter and one of the first times we hung out he said, "All I own are cowboy boots, I really should buy some different shoes." He played tennis at Auburn which by the way he got to go to the game last night...did you see the game!? Ugh, so stressful and exciting!! I'm so glad he got to witness his alum first hand winning a national championship.

I am still working at the restaurant but the hours are starting to really take a toll on me physically, mentally and socially. I'm at home by myself all day in a 1 bedroom apartment while everyone is at work, then I go to work while everyone else is playing and having fun. I'm not exactly sure how I'm going to fix this problem but something has to be fixed! I'm a people person and don't like working 5 nights a week...

In other news, I'm running a half marathon at the end of March with Kim Leedy! If you follow her blog, she just posted about how she is going to donate to Susan G. Komen in honor of her Uncle. I plan on raising money as well in honor of people in the past who have been affected by breast cancer. Yesterday I started my training off with a 2.5 mile run. Today, it will be a 3 mile run which I'm not too worried about. I'm super excited to have a goal and knock out this big goal in March! I have never ran in an organized race so this will be really exciting on so many levels.

My manager said to me, "I think you were supposed to be born in the 1800's or something." This was after I told him that I got a sewing machine for Christmas(!) and my co-worker's love to poke fun at how conservative/old school I am. I can't help it if I love Frank Sinatra, record player's, sewing, blogging, reading and all that good stuff. Ok, so maybe I was supposed to be born in the 1950's....sometimes I wonder but regardless my co-worker's got a really good laugh at how excited I was about my sewing machine. Umm, hello now I can start sewing fabulous things like this:
All of the images were taken from Anna Maria Horner's blog. Check it out! She has amazing fabric and sewing patterns. I can't wait to start sewing!! And if anything I make comes out half as fabulous as the things in these pictures then I will be really impressed with myself.

I'm on day 2 of 1/2 marathon training and it's 36 degrees outside. Yikes! Enjoy your beautiful day however cold it might be outside!!

Zach Galifinakis

2010-12-09T10:46:00.000-08:00

Between Two Ferns with Zach Galifianakis: Sean Penn from Between Two Ferns

One of the many reasons I love Zach Galifianakis. Need I say more?

Cheap Home Remedy

2010-12-06T10:20:00.000-08:00

I love anything and everything all natural, holistic and well let's be honest, cheap. For some reason, I've had weird bumps/acne on my chin for awhile now. It's not very noticeable but still so annoying to not have a clear face. I went to the dermatologist but the face wash they prescribed me was so expensive that I would have to ration my face wash for a year or sell my left arm. And, I like avoiding taking any kind of medication at all. That's another fun fact about me that I didn't put on my 100 things. My sister-in-law thinks I'm crazy but in my head it makes sense. Anywayssss....

I was at the nail place and my nail lady was so cute and talkative! I love when you go to get your nails done and they always say, "you need eyebrow wax?" Um, no I don't but thanks for noticing! Atleast they don't say something like, "you need lip wax?" That would be where I would draw the line and not think it's cute/funny that they notice my flaws. Ok, back on track. So, my nail lady willingly started addressing the irritation and bumps on my skin. According to her, if you puncture a clear Vitamin E pill and put the clear gel from the pill on your face, then it will clear up your skin. I have done this remedy for only two nights and it has proven true! I can't believe it is starting to clear up my skin that I've been trying to fix for so long now. It is also supposed to clear up scars that you might have on your face or anywhere else, too.

$5 vitamin E pills vs. $200 face wash

Meagan 1 Face Wash Company 0

Stickittothemandiosis.

Mother-in-Law

2010-11-24T16:47:00.000-08:00

I love working in a restaurant. There is literally never a dull moment. Ever. This new job has only proven my point to be more true and I love it! My managers are great because they create a laid back environment that isn't stressful. I don't do very well with stress which is why I own a snow cone stand. Only a few people get mean in a snow cone line and to those people I say, "really?"

Apparently, last week I unknowingly got a tattoo on my forehead that says: You should try to set me up with your son/I would make an awesome daughter-in-law. Not one, not two but three customers have made a comment about their sons. One of my favorite couples actually brought their son in, knowing that I would be working! Hilarious. This couple is really sweet and their son was a great sport about the whole thing. It was to say the least very funny and luckily we were both able to laugh it off. Their son is my age and seems really nice so I might hang out with him and his friends in the future. I have some funny stories of how I have met friends, but that one will definitely take the cake if we become friends. Another customer was asking me if I was single and wanted to know when I was working the week of Thanksgiving so she could send in her two single sons (26 and 31) to meet me. I think the words, "take your pick" were used. I have no idea what my thing is with mother's but they love me! Nothing like a backhanded confidence booster from mom's looking out for their sons. It's flattering and extremely entertaining for my manager's and co-workers. win win.

In other restaurant news, I waited on Robert Horry Monday night. It was crazy! He sat down and I knew he looked familiar but I had no idea if I was just making it up in my head. He was SO nice and tipped well so that was exciting to meet a professional basketball player! Go Spurs Go.

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving...yay! Someone was saying how they don't like Thanksgiving...what in the world? Who doesn't like to eat a ton of food, hang out with your family, take naps and watch football? I usually don't eat the turkey because I want to save room for all of the sides. haha My mom's potato casserole is well, divine. Potatoes, cheese, butter and corn flakes. I'm going to attempt to make a pecan pie from scratch. Wish me luck! I hope you have a wonderful holiday full of love and calories. Oh and don't forget your "thanksgiving pants!!!"

awkward

2010-11-21T12:04:00.000-08:00

I just saw a super cute blog that does an "awesome and awkward" list once a week and so I think I'm going to do it, too. But probably not once a week considering I post about once every two weeks. Oh and my reaction to things that aren't that great (i.e. my wallet getting stolen) is usually "awesome" in a sarcastic tone so if some of my awesome's don't make sense, that's probably why.

Awesome
-my ability to procrastinate...I should seriously be able to put it on my resume next to my impressive microsoft suite skills (microsoft word? pfff I'm basically a pro. why did I have a hard time finding a job?)
-the fact that my brother has never made a resume and he's almost 29
-texas actually winning a football game
-those thick black leggings you wear with boots and baggy t-shirts/sweaters...life changing moment. it's like you're not wearing pants well I guess because you aren't wearing pants but seriously, way more comfortable than my jeans and a t-shirt. so now i'm kind of trendy but SO comfortable. win win.
-forgetting to buy toilet paper...and realizing it just as you wake up
-my manager giving me the day before and after thanksgiving off
-2 stepping at a Josh Abbott concert with the really cute guy you made eye contact with earlier in the night
-shopping at forever 21...is 3 times in one week too much? maybe.

Awkward
-when older women wear those black leggings with a shirt that doesn't cover their butt
-people clapping in church at in opportune times
-a co-worker wearing a shirt that says "I support single moms" with an outline of a stripper
-abilene/monroe commercials
-ushers at church wearing vests
-soccer mom rolling down her window and yelling at the guy that cut her off then having to witness her tailing the guy through a parking lot.
-trying to communicate with spanish speaking bus boys. i can't tell if i'm talking to them like they're deaf.
-4 way stops when I'm running...are they letting me go? i can't tell, and i don't want to get hit by that car. oh, i think they're letting me go, oh nope! just kidding. i'll just stand here and act like i just got a text.
-when i tell people i went to acu and they ask me if i know someone. awkward because i kind of only know people that were in club...more like "embarrassed" because i didn't branch out.
-negative political ads. yeeesh. can't we all just get along?

Quick Update

2010-11-18T07:22:00.000-08:00

Here a few quick updates about my life lately.

-I moved to San Antonio last week and really like it! I am living with Jessica Jennings in Alamo Heights which is the equivalent to Tarry Town in Austin. Super cute old charming houses. Ugh, I love it!

-I have started running almost everyday since I got here. One day I jogged 5.5 miles straight...no stopping! This is a huge personal best for me. Like I said earlier, I have always hated running but I'm really starting to like it. We will see how much I like it when it's 40 degrees outside. Yesterday I mapped out a run through the really nice houses so I'm excited to do that today. Maybe I will take pictures of some of the houses without being super creepy. (not when I'm running but just randomly one day haha)

-I started a new job last week at a nice restaurant called Barbaresco. All of the server's are older and mostly men so you know what that means! Not a lot of drama...it's awesome.

-Last night, I met up with some friends and we went to the Alamo Drafthouse and watched the Wedding Singer. If you have never been to a drafthouse, they have a table in front of your chairs so you can eat and drink while watching the movie. The Wedding Singer was a quote and sing-a-long night so they would have the lyrics on the screen to sing with Adam Sandler. Oh and right before the scene where the old lady pays him in meatballs, they passed out meatballs to everyone in the theater and we had to eat it with our hands. haha It was so fun!

-Last week while working at a bat mizvah, I was helping the event planner get ready for the party and we figured out her sister ran cross country at ACU! We talked for awhile and she told me about how she does corporate Christmas decorating for companies and she asked me to help her out so I am going this Saturday for my first job. This will be a great way to make some extra cash on the side. I'm excited to see how she runs her business!

These pictures have something to do with my to-do list today.

100 Things

2010-11-11T07:59:00.000-08:00

Here are 100 fun facts about me. Enjoy!

1. An authentic record player is a MUST when I get my own home and family.

2. I loved troll dolls as a kid.

3. I want to eventually learn how to re-upholster furniture really well because my grandmother knew how to re-upholster.

4. The scientist by coldplay is the only song that makes me sad about a past relationship. "Nobody said it was easy, it's such a shame for us to part."

5. Cowboy boots make me swoon. Like, SWOON.

6. One of my all-time favorite places in the world is Aaron's farm house porch, listening to the record player and talking about life.

7. I'm abnormally paranoid.

8. I can't stand having lotion on my body!

9. I use all natural deodorant, toothpaste, mouth wash and soap and hope to eventually use all natural face wash, shampoo and laundry detergent. When I say all-natural, I mean I know the lady who makes it at her house.

10. I'm a hell bent 100% Texan 'til I die.

11. I'm in a Pat Green music video.

12. I did ballet, tap and jazz when I was little and loved it!

13. The only fast food I crave is Chick-fil-A. What the heck do they put in those fries???

14. Grey is my absolute new favorite color...for design that is.

15. My 9th grade boyfriend told me, "you're really cute but your arms are kind of fat" so ever since then I've HATED my arms.

16. I rarely ever drink cokes. I'm an ice water kind of girl.

17. I like Elizabeth on The View.

18. I think me and Amy on the Bobby Bones show would be besties.

19. I can't wait to have a house of my own to decorate.

20. I've never lived outside of Texas.

21. I once waited on Cory Morrow and his girl friend at Janie and Jack.

22. My favorite job has been at a golf course in Round Rock as the cart girl. Driving a golf cart around listening to music on my ipod making great money = best job ever.

23. I was a vegetarian for a month but couldn't give up bar-b-q.

24. After going to Africa, I decided I never wanted to drive a luxury car. Not that I judge people who do, but I just feel like it's a completely unnecessary expense.

25. I've coached 2 elementary and 1 junior high volleyball team.

26. The older I get, the more precious my friends become. I love my friends!

27. I sometimes get social anxiety in big groups.

28. Anytime my throat feels sore, I go to Jamba Juice and get "boosts" in my smoothie. Works every time...I guarantee it.

29. I want to live a simple life.

30. I have no interest in politics.

31. I don't have cable and hardly watch tv because I watched it SO MUCH in college.

32. I love Bobby Flay....especially "throw down with Bobby Flay."

33. Patrick Dempsy's hair is so dreamy/sexy.

34. Whoever invented truck nuts should be kicked well...in the nuts.

35. I have grown more in the past year and half than I have in the past 6 years.

36. I love my perfume, Chance Chanel.

37. I really liked having a short "bob" haircut and always got a lot of compliments in college but I like curling my hair so it's long for now.

38. I was the captain of my volleyball team in high school.

39. My austin sports and social sand volleyball team won the league last year.

40. I lalalalove decorating blogs, photography websites and wedding blogs. Oncewed, design sponge and little green notebook..yes, please.

41. I loved tweety bird as a kid.

42. I want to learn how to sew.

43. If I could be any character in any movie it would be Reese Witherspoon in Walk the Line OR Allie in The Notebook. I can't decide.

44. If you ever want me to completely write you off wear affliction, man jewelry and visors. Automatic N-O.

45. Visors, seriously one of my biggest pet peeves.

46. I don't really like dogs...at all. haha The main reason I don't like them is when they smell bad or jump on you.

47. I have had SO many lunch dates at Jason's Deli.

48. I grew up going to my grandparents house in the country. I love the simplicity of the farm life.

49. Another must for when I have a family is to have my own garden and peach tree in my back yard.

50. I'm not very domestic but I would love to be a stay at home mom. I have a lot of learning to do!

51. Sometimes if I'm feeling crazy, I will order an Arnold Palmer instead of a water.

52. I rate restaurants on how good their bread is. Johnny Carino's A+

53. I co-own a snow cone stand with my brother and absolutely love it.

54. I want my kids to have really southern names like Stetson or Rhett.

55. I love being the baby girl in the family.

56. I'm so lucky to have extremely supportive and helpful parents who love me to death!

57. Large, expensive, obnoxious church building's make me really uncomfortable.

58. Donald Miller is my favorite author.

59. I'm learning that God wants a relationship not a religious, ritualistic church-goer.

60. I hate when people aren't real and honest. Please don't try to act like you have it all together because you aren't fooling me!

61. When I was little, I thought midgets lived in stop lights and controlled the lights manually.

62. The best song to work out to is A-Punk by Vampire Weekend. I seriously start pumping my arms in the air and bob my head side to side. HEY HEY HEY!

63. My brother Aaron and I have countless inside jokes. We sometimes converse in inside jokes/movie quotes.

64. I love Austin Stone and the way it has changed the way I look at church.

65. 2 stepping is so fun, but I'm horrible at it!!

66. I've danced the night away with friends about 5 or 6 different times in the past few months.

67. I love my life right now and I'm really trying to soak in/cherish all the freedom and time I have for myself.

68. Having kids is a terrifying thought.

69. Was the summer of '69 really the best days of your life?

70. I'm going to be late to my funeral with a sign on the casket that says "I'll be there in 2 seconds!!"

71. My nephew is cooler than your nephew.

72. I'm on the search for a good looking guy who loves the Lord who sometimes wears cowboy boots who wants a stay at home housewife who will love him like crazy. Is that so much to ask?

73. I can't even watch movies with affairs in them...it breaks my heart too much!

74. I have never understood why women smoke cigarettes, it ages you SO fast!!

75. I have white water rafted down the Nile River.

76. Running has always been such a pain to me until recently, I'm starting to kind of like it.

77. A green apple and peanut butter = perfection

78. I overuse exclamation points!!!

79. I love anything and everything from J. Crew. So classy....

80. I never watch the news because it's so depressing.

81. If I could have one song playing in my head ALL the time it would be sweet disposition by Temper Trap. It used to be beautiful day by U2.

82. I hate disappointing people, I'm a total people pleaser.

83. It's always sunny in philadelphia is a hilarious show but entirely too inappropriate.

84. Is the hokey pokey what it's all about?

85. When someone cries, I automatically start crying. I'm such a softy like my dad and mom for that matter.

86. I love naps and probably spent half of my freshman year in college napping.

87. Everyone in my family has an entrepreneurial spirit.

88.George Strait's song, Amarillo by Morning describes my life perfectly. "I ain't got a dime, but what I got is mine. I ain't rich, but Lord I'm free."

89. I bleed burnt orange (even when they're sucking). Hook 'em!!!

90. My nickname in high school was Hiney.

91. I had a solo my senior year in Les Miserables.

92. The role I was playing in Les Miserables was lovely lady #1 which is the private school way of saying prostitute #1.

93. I was born in Amarillo.

94. I've never broken a bone or been stung by a bee.

95. If I could eat pizza everyday, I seriously would.

96. I love foot massages.

97. I dislike Dallas for multiple reasons.

98. My friends say I sleep like a vampire. Arms crossed, on my back, with the covers all the way to my chin.

99. Creamy jalapeno from Chuy's is divine.

100. I have received 4 warning tickets in the past year and a half. Batting my eyes at the officer with a sweet smile and apology does the trick apparently..."I'm SO sorry!"

Born in the U.S.A.

2010-11-06T08:51:00.000-07:00

I have been feeling extra patriotic the past week or so for two reasons.

Patriotism #1: I was Wendy Peffercorn for Halloween. One of the most classic American movies centered around America's favorite past time.

Patriotism #2: I attended Rick Perry's election watch party at a ranch wearing cowboy boots. I love Texas.

Unfortunately, I don't have any pictures to prove it but I was definitely there. Oh and I don't know anything about politics but I went because I was invited and I'm glad I went because it was fun! Now go listen to Born in the U.S.A. by Bruce Springsteen...you won't regret it.

Halloween Monsters

2010-11-01T20:24:00.000-07:00

In honor of Halloween, I involuntarily signed up to babysit monsters residing in the 6th grade in Austin, Texas. Friday (the 29th) was my first sub job of the year and to say that it was eventful is, well, a HUGE understatement. Let me just start from the beginning.

When I mapquested the location of the school, I quickly realized I might be in for more of a challenge than I thought. I have heard many people say that it can be difficult dealing with children from extremely low income areas because they have behavior issues due to their inattentive home life. Of course, that's not the case with every child but it's hard when the children aren't getting attention or support from home and they aren't held accountable for their behavior. So, this is when it gets fun. I got to the school in the morning and had to have the janitor open up my classroom door for me. As we were walking to the classroom, the janitor laughed and said, "you have the 6th graders? oh, they are going to be horrible!" Or something to that effect. Hoping it was just a crazy janitor talking, I blew it off as not a big deal. Then, the teacher whose portable was connected to mine came over and told me the class was absolutely horrible and that I was going to have a really difficult day. Awesome, I thought. This is going to be interesting. Then, I went to go pick up the monsters from the cafeteria and as we were waiting a teacher pulled me aside and told me the same thing. This class is absolutely horrible and tried to give me a few pointers but basically just said, "good luck!" with a smile. THEN during the assembly, the principal calls out the 6th grade class and tells them that if she hears any bad reports from me that she would be extremely upset. A shout out/threat...from the principal...in front of the entire school...about how bad they are. I mean, how bad could could it possibly be? I'm sure these people are just burnt out and are being dramatic. HA!

Here I was, a young, blond substitute about to enter the wrath of 11 year old monsters.

I made a fool of myself from the very beginning trying to call role. If you ever sub, make sure you go over the role before you are saying it in front of the class. There was a lot of literal spelling that sounds like it looks. You know how you get frustrated with spelling rules when you are young and you wished everything was spelled like it looks? Well, these parents rebelled against ALL spelling rules and regulations. Trynadei pronounced Trinity...yes.

I had been forewarned about one particular child and the beginning of the class was rough but not terrible. Unfortunately, one of the other boys started taunting him so he decided to start flicking him and the whole class off, threatening to beat him up and using extremely colorful language. During the first test (she left 4 tests...who knows), the adjoining teacher next to me told me to let the 2 little girls who couldn't speak a lick of english get on the computer to play games. I thought for sure they'd be playing educational games to help them learn english. Nope, just games...for 3 hours. Oh and during the reading test, the really really really bad kid is at a 1st grade reading level so they let him skip the test and play games, too. But of course instead of playing games he got on youtube and was looking at inappropriate rap videos with half naked women. Really?

All day the kids were talking, throwing things, getting up out of their seat and doing whatever the heck they felt like doing. When a kid doesn't blink at the idea of having to go to the office, what am I supposed to do/say to make him stop? Luckily, the day slowly came to the end and they were on their way to "specials" when one of the other boys decided to call 9-1-1 from our classroom. All of these things were happening just as I would turn around after getting onto other children who were misbehaving. Obviously I'm not letting children watch rap videos and call people with me standing there witnessing it. For the first time in my life, I was summoned to the principal's office and the principal was literally interrogating the child and using military tactics to make him confess. "I DO NOT LIKE LIARS!!! YOU BETTER NOT BE LYING TO ME!!!!!" She acted like a drill sergeant and I ws so uncomfortable.

I really never raised my voice or got stressed out all day because it made me sad to think that these kids are most likely getting yelled at at home, too. I know there is a better way to reach a child but it's hard when there are 20 other kids acting up as well. It made me realize there is a HUGE need for children to having mentors and role models especially in that environment. Most of those kids only have one parent at home and aren't taught a lot of things that should be taught to children. Overall, it was a crazyyyy day but I survived (!) and now I see every other sub job as extremely easy.

Who knew Halloween was going to come 2 days early?

Sigma Theta Chi

2010-10-19T22:05:00.000-07:00

*****Disclaimer*****

If the thought of Sigma Theta makes you sick, don't keep reading.

I did something very symbolic tonight. It's a story for another blog but the guy I was dating this summer (homeslice and fredricksburg man) is no longer the person I'm dating but a good guy friend instead. It's a pretty sweet set-up if you ask me...we are still friends and we still hang out. He is awesome! For many, many reason's but especially awesome tonight. First, he came to my elementary volleyball game and then we hung out after our community group from church. When we dated, I always joked about how I needed to take off the EOX from the back of my car. He would jokingly reply with how we needed to have a ceremony or a formal dismissing of my past college memories. He realized that getting rid of something permanent like that needs a formal good bye. He was half joking of course but the other half was kind of serious because I think he knew there was a reason I still had my EOX sticker there. So, tonight he surprised me after Amy's ice cream with a razor and goo gone to officially get rid of my Siggie sticker and take a big girl step into the real world. =)

It's not that I purposefully kept it on there so I could live in the past but I subtly never made an effort to take it off. As much mess as I talk about that silly club, I love it. Tonight in the car ride home, I found myself reflecting back on Siggies and remembering all of the sweet memories I made with some people that I have grown to really love and respect.

I'll never (ever) forget the day in chapel that I nervously awaited for 30 minutes to slowly creep by so I could take the long and painful walk from Moody to the campus center to pick up my "packet." In the packet, there was a piece of paper that would forever change my college experience, the way I looked at the color yellow and the way I viewed my friends. After weeks of rushing, waiting, hoping and wishing I finally found out that I would get the chance to one day become an official member of Sigma Theta Chi.

But not so fast.

We first had to go through 6 weeks of panty hose wearing, sing song loving, siggie star performing initiation to appreciate the yellow and white pride. If it wasn't for those 6 weeks, I wouldn't be sitting here writing to you with a full heart about all those great times in club. Wearing the jersey for the first time in school, singing the secret song at the pass the key, placing the EOX sticker on your car and hearing the phrase "the women of sigma theta chi" at sing song wouldn't have been nearly as fun if we didn't have to first go through all of the traditions of being a pledge.

Thinking back on all of the friends I made because of Siggies is overwhelming. What would my college experience been like had I not done club? Being able to trace back those friendships specifically through Siggies makes me love the color yellow even more. I'm not afraid to admit that I loved Siggies more than I led people to believe. I'm sad to see the sticker go but I feel like the cheesy formal good bye (aka singing all of the songs to myself on the way home) was a very necessary process in the growing up phase of my life. This past year has been a year of growth, appreciation, love, trials, disappointments and happiness and I'm so glad that I have my siggie "sister's" on the other end of the phone supporting me 100% of the way no matter what!

"Our love will stay strong in this club we belong, Sigma Theta Chi."

Darndest Things

2010-10-18T07:58:00.001-07:00

Yesterday, I rode with my friend to pick up her sweet little nephew in Dallas so he could stay with her for a week. This kid was nothing short of absolutely adorable. His name is Parker and he had a little comb over and was wearing loafers, a blue oxford button up and khacki's. Anyways, being with Parker for 3 hours in the car was very fun and entertaining. Sometimes I get really stressed thinking about possibly having a child of my own but being with Parker made me kind of excited about maybe having children. He didn't really stop talking so of course, a few funny things came out of his mouth.

At dinner, I made him laugh and he tooted kind of loud and he looked at me and said, "Hey! You made me toot..." We laughed and I thought man how awesome would that be if I accidentally tooted in public and I blamed it on someone and everyone giggled and thought it was cute. It just isn't as cute when you're old.

"I got my sperry's on!" A little boy after my own heart...

I told my friend how my nephew loves "all the single ladies" and Parker chimed in and sang the chorus and ended with..."now put your hands up!"

Parker said he was going to marry one of the Jonas brothers. Luckily, he has a 6 year old sister who says the exact same thing so it's funny not concerning.

His dad went to a&m and is hard core so I (of course) took the prime opportunity to teach Parker the eyes of Texas song. Am I evil?? Maybe...but I thoroughly enjoyed it and can't wait for him to go back to Arkansas singing the eyes of Texas.

I saw Elena's niece the other night so I was asking her what she was going to do after our volleyball games. She told me she was going over to her parents house to have dinner with people who don't like Christians. ha! Kids are seriously hilarious...her parents have a ministry where they invite their non-Christian friends over for dinner and I guess that's how her niece had interpreted the situation.

My nephew heard a song on the radio with the word weave in it so he asked my sister-in-law what a weave was. She said it was extra hair that black girls put on their head when they needed more hair. So, Luke naturally followed up with the awesome statement... "Daddy needs a weave!!!" (my brother is bald).

Kids really do say the darndest things.

Gamers

2010-10-13T22:36:00.000-07:00

My brother and I are cleaning out the house that we live in. Aaron and I both probably have a hoarding problem. Mild, of course, but still a problem. We justify everything. "But I might need to use this Larry Bird jersery some day if I decide to be Larry Bird for halloween." Seriously, every item has a but I might... added at the end of it.

Aaron still has his trophies from his elementary soccer teams. I have nothing else to say after that statement except for the fact that I made him throw them away and he's still kind of pissed about it. I am just helping out his wife so she can thank me later.

We sorted through our old ninetendo and N64 games last night and decided that Aaron should take them to a pawn shop to try to get some cash.

This is a text I got from Aaron...

Aaron: I'm trading my gamesystems right now. Kinda sad.

Me: Probably something you should do before your 30th birthday

Aaron: Sweet. I'm bringing them home then. I'm only 28!!!!

Literally never a dull moment. And this is why I am able to live and own a business with my brother.

ACL

2010-10-07T10:21:00.000-07:00

Text from last night.

Jessica: I have some reallyyyy exciting news!!!!

no response (I was making a snow cone)

Jessica: I got a 3 day pass for you!!!!

me: EEEEEE!!!!!

In other words, I'm going to Austin City Limits! There are a lot of people coming in town, the weather is gorgeous and I have one life to live. Why not?? I was worried about paying too much but then I started looking at all the bands who will be playing and I immediately justified the cost. Not to mention all the fun people who will be there to share the experience with. This is my first official ACL weekend. Of course I will take plenty of pictures to share with the 3 of you.

Annnnnnndddd there's a group of fun people going 2 stepping tomorrow night! The month of October is panning out to be a great month.

Here is a list of everyone I am excited to see this weekend:
The Black Keys, The Strokes, Pat Green, Vampire Weekend, Amos Lee, Pete Yorn, M.I.A., Muse, Speak, Switchfoot, Robert Earl Keen, Norah Jones, Band of Horses and the stinking Eagles on Sunday night to end the weekend. I'm soooo excited! Can you tell?

Rumors

2010-10-04T19:35:00.000-07:00

Both of my trips to San Antonio have been spontaneous/last minute and both trips have gone way beyond my expectations. This time it consisted of UT football, betting on horses at the races, more dancing, a Sunday morning walk, chips and salsa, Luby's and shopping. What more could a girl ask for?

Anyways, I heard a rumor about myself that was...awesome. An awesome rumor you say? I thought rumors were bad?

Not this time, my friend, not this time.

When I was in San Antonio this weekend, one of my lovely guy friends proceeds to say to me...

"Someone told me you were dating Jordan Shipley."

Two things about this rumor humor me.

1. There's someone in this world that actually believes I'm dating Jordan.

2. There's someone out there that is freely passing along this information to others.

I need to know who this person is so I can shake their hand/give them a kiss. Thank you for not doing your research and recklessly talking about my non-existent love life with Jordan Shipley. I applaud you.

(for the record, I think Jordan Shipley is ridiculously handsome since you weren't there to see my reaction when my guy friend told me about this infamous rumor. lot's of giggling, smiling and blushing!)

It's about time.

2010-10-01T12:04:00.000-07:00

Tights with shorts, riding boots with skinny jeans, colorful scarves and striped shirts*. Yes, please.

*one day while in the bean, a very cute older moonie approached me while I was wearing a striped shirt and said, "I thought girls weren't supposed to wear stripes because it makes them look fat." I should probably go ahead and start making a post for stupid things people say. "What does grape taste like?" will also be included in that blog.

Pictures taken from: Madewell, J.Cre w and Piperlime

Classy Not Trashy

2010-09-28T20:44:00.000-07:00

I went to San Antonio a few weekends ago for my junior high volleyball tournament. We won our first two games to take us to the championship on Saturday night. We lost and got second but I was still very proud of my girls!! They did awesome! Elena and I taught them the "I've got confidence" sing song melody so they can sing it before games. The girls absolutely love that song now! It's hilarious but cool to hear them sing about their confidence that Jesus loves them no matter what. Here is a picture after the championship. Clearly #2 was not happy. I would categorize this picture as "priceless."

After our tournament I stayed Saturday night and watched the game with some old ACU alum to cheer on Texas against Texas Tech! Afterwards we danced the night away to put it simply. So so fun!!! It is night's like those that make me very thankful for the season of life that I am in right now.

This picture isn't from San Antonio but it's a result of a pretty crazy weekend that I had (long story). I got a free highlight but it was only if I let them do whatever they wanted to it sooo...here's my new hair color! I really love the lighter blonde but the red I could live without. Can you see the red on the bottom part!? Sorry the picture is so myspace-ish, I just wanted a picture to showcase my new color(s). One of my little 5th graders saw my red hair AND found out that I used to have a nose ring and her response to me was, "why keep it trashy when you can keep it classy?" Neveradullmoment.

Donald Miller...check!

2010-09-24T11:34:00.001-07:00

I am reading a book by Jim Palmer that has affected me in the same way Donald Miller has affected me in the past. If you don't know me very well, you should know that I LOVE Donald Miller. So much so, that one of my best friend's called me and said, "Meagan. You will never believe who I met today. There was a very attractive guy (check) on the dart with me. We started talking and he was from ACU (not really a check but whatever). He has been to Africa (check) working for the peace corps and he was wearing cowboy boots (check times 10). And then after we finished talking he pulled out a Donald Miller book!!!" Can I just say that I was so happy when my girl friend felt like it was fate when he pulled out a DM book. DM = more checks than cowboy boots mainly b/c cowboy boots unfortunately don't make you a southern, God fearing gentleman like my little brain wants me to believe.

That last sentence is just a whole other blog in itself.

Anyways, Jim Palmer is real, raw, honest and I like it. He goes against what everyone else seems to follow when it comes to church and religion. I like it when people step outside the norm and question if that's how Jesus intended for His followers to be. The idea of his book is "shedding religion to find God." Basically, how he encountered and grew closer to God through divine nobodies; a hip hop artist, Denny's waitress, a disabled child and tire salesman. Without further ado here are a few quotes from Jim's book, Divine Nobodies.

“It’s a little curious that the ‘sinners’ in the Bible were much more responsive to Jesus and ready to receive the kingdom of God than religious people. The same sun melts wax and hardens clay, and the same Jesus melted and hardened people’s hearts, but maybe there’s a hidden message in who was melted (prostitutes) and who was hardened (priests). Doesn’t God want folks either passionately in love with him (hot) or flipping him the bird (cold) rather than the halfhearted mediocrity of religious compliance?

It’s clear from the hot/cold Scripture in Revelation that the video nauseating God is not categorically the hip-hop one, but the one where we come to church masking our brokenness, out of touch with the truth about ourselves while pointing our fingers of condemnation at others.

In reference to the Denny’s waitress he befriended…

She talked about how over the years Christians were often her worst customers. They would come in all cheery and blessed after Sunday morning service, running her unmercifully with a table of 8 and leaving loose change for a tip on a large bill. For years, I prided myself on having right theology, but Wanda got me thinking about whether any theology can be “right” if it doesn’t motivate you to treat people with love and respect. Let’s just hope on Judgment Day that God doesn’t leave it in the hands of waitresses, cashiers, and all the other invisible people in our world who are on the receiving end of what’s truly in our hearts.”

Filter

2010-09-20T19:24:00.000-07:00

This is my tip of the day. I hope it helps my three followers.

If you're married, please don't go on and on...and on about how you're SO glad you aren't single. Especially when there's only one single person in the conversation among other married girls. And don't use phrases like, "I'm so blessed to have found (insert dreamy rich guy here). Ugh, that's so terrible I would just hate to be single! Glad that phase of my life is over!!"

Umm...what?

Moving on.

My grandmother (ohhhh Janney Bee) is a hoot to say the least. My brother and I went to go visit her today. She told us about how a lady busts in her door and tells her to go to hell! Huh, I thought. That's strange. Ten minutes later my grandmother tells us a story about how she told one of her friends the reason she takes a lot of medicine is because she was so mean. Huh, I thought. Maybe that's why you have people telling you to go to hell.

"I'm such a smart ass." -Janney Bee Hines

Louisiana Loves

2010-09-17T08:47:00.000-07:00

I can't wait to kiss these sweet cheeks in a few weeks!!!

Labor Day Getaway

2010-09-12T21:17:00.000-07:00

There are many joys of being single after college but there is one thing that isn't so fun: finding normal people to hang out with. It seems like a simple task but oh no, it couldn't be more difficult. When my sister-in-law told me about her best friend's cousin who lived in Austin, I was interested. I trust Karen and she said that this infamou girl seemed really cool.

So, like any normal person would do, I stalked her on facebook. And from my facebook deductive reasoning, I concluded that she indeed seemed nice, normal and fun. Stacy is one of those people that I instantly felt like I had been friends with for years. She's a funny, free spirit, interior designin', laid back, beard & musician loving Austinite that is so much fun!

When she invited me to come with her on a camping trip where she only knew one person and I knew none, I was totally in! Camping with 20 people you have never met in the middle of Texas sounded like an adventure for surrrrreee. And oh, was it an adventure!

The best part of the whole trip was right before we arrived on the ranch. We were instructed to close the gate behind us so when we came upon a ranch that seemed to fit the description, we drove up and shut the gate. As we drove down the gravel road we didn't see any cars at the house and decided we were on the wrong property! We quickly turned around and stopped to call the guy who was in charge. While sitting in Stacy's brand new car, some of the horses from the ranch started getting really close to the car but we didn't think anything of it. While Stacy was on the phone we heard this really loud scratch noise and we looked at each other with big eyes afraid of what we would see when we turned around. The horse was eating her spoiler!!!! We literally laughed for a solid 2 minutes...it was hilarious and luckily the horse didn't hurt her car too bad! Who knew horses like to bite cars so beware!!

Among hungry horses our weekend also included canoes, rope swings, rivers, smores, camp fires and...

RIFLES! Don't mess with Texas, especially their women!

Preach on, Sir Francis

2010-09-08T14:20:00.000-07:00

I'm not usually one for poems, never have been but this one caught my eye and convicted my heart. Enjoy.

Disturb us, Lord, when
We are too pleased with ourselves,
When our dreams have come true
Because we dreamed too little,
When we arrived safely
Because we sailed too close to the shore.

Disturb us, Lord, when
with the abundance of things we possess
We have lost our thirst
For the waters of life;
Having fallen in love with life,
We have ceased to dream of eternity
And in our efforts to build a new earth,
We have allowed our vision
Of the new Heaven to dim.

Disturb us, Lord, to dare more boldly,
To venture on wilder seas
Where storms will show Your mastery;
Where losing sight of land,
We shall find the stars.

We ask you to push back
The horizons of our hopes;
And to push back the future
In strength, courage, hope, and love.

This we ask in the name of our Captain,
Who is Jesus Christ.

Sir Francis Drake

Random!

2010-09-04T21:49:00.000-07:00

Here are a few random things happening all at once...

1. I'm super excited, I mean PUMPED about college football. This is me being extremely excited/cheesy sporting my Texas jersey with a "rock-a-billy's" sunset in the background. Never gets old.

p.s. don't you love the christmas lights? they look so great when it's dark!

2. This family that I know took professional pictures at the snow cone stand a few weeks ago without knowing Aaron and I owned it! How random is that? Here a couple of photos mainly so my (3) blog followers can see where I work every day.

You can't see that much of our place but you get my drift. Old cars and an airstream and cute kids in fedora hats...you know, the usual. (I took these pictures from her blog)

3. My adorable nephew is on a football team. He's 4 years old. They refer to his league as the "wee" league and my brother got suckered into being the coach. His only victory in football was when he won his fantasy football league 2 years ago. The other teams have been having 4 practices a week. Oh and he had a dad call him telling him how good his kid is and how his son should only be a tight end or something outrageous like that. All of these things are brewing a perfect crazy parent storm. Needless to say, I can't WAIT to go to a game.

4. My awesome dates have continued including a wonderful trip to homeslice on south congress. This place is a must if you come to Austin for the weekend! We also have been to Woodland on south congress (it's my fav part of Austin) and we also went to an improv comedy show where a man did a skit about abortion and apparently we were supposed to be laughing? I didn't laugh nor clap and at the end I leaned into my date's ear and said, "abortion's hilarious!" He wasn't laughing either. But besides that the comedy club was surprisingly very entertaining!

5. Elena and I are coaching two volleyball teams at Brentwood. I feel like that statement is enough to cover so many bases of hilariousness/randomness/irresponsibility that is to come.

Did she say chuck wagon?

2010-09-01T16:13:00.000-07:00

I went to visit my small town southern man (aka my grandpa) in his town of about 500 people this past weekend. I have compiled a "top ten" list in honor of this eventful visit but first, I have to tell you about the most white trash divorce dispute. Pardon me for my harsh words but after reading this blog you will most likely agree.

I decided while I was in town that I would shadow both of my uncles at their respective jobs. One uncle is a history teacher and my other uncle is a judge. Before being judge, he was the district attorney and would tell us crazy....I mean, crazyyyyy stories about what goes on in these small towns. Drug trafficking being one of the main problems that he deals with everyday. But on this particular Monday my uncle was listening to a couple's argument of who gets to keep what after the divorce settlement.

They start out by saying there is a dispute over a few pieces of property that they can't come to an agreement on.

1. land that has a rodeo arena on it

2. 5 bedroom 3 bath double wide

3. tractor from the 1960's

4. A CHUCK WAGON.

Who on earth owns a chuck wagon??? Needless to say I had to have some serious self control in that court room because I was so thrown off by the chuck wagon argument. After 30 minutes of back and forth bickering I leaned over to my dad and said, "I'm never getting married" to which he replied, "You can get married, just don't marry someone who owns a chuck wagon!"

Touche.

Friday Fun Lunch

2010-08-27T10:48:00.000-07:00

Happy Weekend! In college, every Friday we would try to get together with our friends for lunch so naturally we named it, "Friday fun lunch." How fun would that be to eat Sharky's at this quaint little table after chapel. I mean, this picture looks like it was taken in Abilene, right!?

"Be happy for this moment. This moment is your life!" -anonymous

Enjoy your beautiful day wherever you may be!

photography taken from Smitten Design

Ikat

2010-08-25T18:00:00.000-07:00

Before I discovered a number of fabulous blogs about design, I had no idea what "ikat" was and honestly when I first saw it, I didn't like it at all but it's actually really growing on me. So much so, that I just bought some ikat fabric today to re-upholster a chair.

The people at this particular fabric store probably think I'm really weird because I go in every couple of weeks and spend about an hour looking at all the fabric and never purchase anything. Finally, today I made my first purchase! After much debate in my mind of course. I took a really long time mainly because my intuition tells me one thing and then I doubt myself. I just need to be confident in my initial thought of what I like and what I think other people would like.

One of the main reasons why I like ikat is because it's funky and has a sort of organic feel to it. I think a lot of people in Austin would be drawn to the ikat look. Do you think ikat will be timeless or do you think it is on it's "way out" of style like design sponge said?

40 Million

2010-08-23T18:51:00.000-07:00

After Aaron and I worked together at the snow cone stand yesterday we split up the tips and each had 50 cents left over because there was an extra dollar that we had to divide. Aaron suggested we go buy a lottery ticket and I thought it was a grand idea. The amount is for something ridiculous and the actual cash value is 80 million so if we win, we will both be proud owners of 40 million dollars.

So, naturally we went to Chuy's and discussed what we would do with that money over some creamy jalapeno. What would you buy if you won 40 million dollars? First thing I would do is call every company I owed money to and pay off my debt. It's not a lot, but it would be nice to have nothing hanging over my head. Next, I would go on a serious shopping spree and invite my 10 closest friends. Hmm, scratch that...5 closest friends. As far as modes of transportation I would buy my dream car.
This car is glorious. It reminds me of my 1989 Jeep Cherokee I drove the morning of my 16th birthday. I LOVE old cars, especially the feel of old SUV's. Even though I love Roxy, my Jeep will forever be my favorite car.

Oh, and a very classy trip to this fabulous place on earth with some of my closest friends of course. (this trip is bucket list worthy)

After a few hearty shopping sprees, I would definitely invest in a lot of things and give like crazy! It's just fun to think about what you would do if you won the lottery...one could only hope! I like to believe that I would still lead a pretty simple, normal life because just like the Zac Brown Band puts it so well:

"It's funny how the little things in life that mean the most. Not where you live, the car you drive or the price tag on your clothes. There's no dollar sign on a peace of mind this I've come to know."

Cheesy, but so true. Speaking of little things in life, this past week was wonderful! I went on a date AND a surprise road trip to Fredricksburg! Any guy that willingly plans a surprise trip to Fredricksburg is a ok in my book. =) Especially when he says, "We can go anywhere you want! I'm used to going shopping with my mom and sister." Those are glorious words that any girl wants to hear, right!? Not only did we have a near perfect day in a fun town, we came back that afternoon only to get ready for the Austin Fashion Show after party. I know you're probably thinking Meagan and fashion show have never been used in the same sentence but I was invited by default! haha The infamous boy I went on a date with was in charge of making sure the after party didn't ruin his company's office downtown so I was invited to join in the fun! There was a girl from season 6 project runway which was kind of neat. D-list celebrities are only slightly fun to see mainly because when you have to have someone explain to you who they are, it kind of takes away from the mystery. Needless to say, it was one of the most fun day's I have had a really long time. We topped off the night with a little dancing in the boom boom room. The name speaks for itself.

Not to mention going to blues on the green the Wednesday before that and a pool party on Thursday. I was seriously having the best week ever. I'm surprised Vh1 didn't call me...

No, but seriously I woke up this morning with an overwhelming sense of gratitude and thanksgiving to God for everything He has blessed me with. Do you know how awesome America is!? Sometimes I forget but am gently reminded and it is incredible the sacrifices people have made just for our freedom. Wow! And my friends...ugh they're amazing! Ok, enough of my random thoughts.

I'll keep you posted on the 40 mil but until then enjoy your beautiful day.

The House That Built Me

2010-05-23T22:37:00.000-07:00

It's past midnight and I can't go to sleep. It's the last night that I will ever sleep in the house that I grew up in. I never thought selling your house was ever this hard. I can think of so many memories for each room. Aaron and I used to share bunk beds when we were little because I was always too scared to stay in my own room. He would always play video games before we went to bed. We found the cutest poster that my brothers made before I came home from the hospital 24 years ago. They cut out anything and everything that represented girls or babies from 1986 magazines. It was hilarious! We used to play roller hockey in the half cove outside of our street and I was always one of the only girls if not the only girl with all of the boys. We had a trampoline in the backyard until one day Ashton and all of his friends started jumping on it and it ripped all the way around! It didn't bother me anyways because trampolines stressed me out. You can probably imagine me as a small child being paranoid about breaking my neck. That's seriously why I never did gymnastics...way to risky. haha Oh, and we had this dog named Daisy that I couldn't stand. She is the sole reason for why I can't stand dogs. We had a poodle puppy named Easton that got lost when Aaron and I came in for a drink one day. We both plopped down on his bed and started crying b/c we felt so bad for losing our brand new puppy.

Oh and the ultimate story for this house. When I was 3, I decided to take a nap...some things never change. I decided to take a nap on the couch w/all of my other baby dolls. Well, apparently I was really tired and I looked like a baby doll because my family searched and searched and couldn't find me. They literally had cops and the whole neighborhood looking for me b/c it had been a few hours and my parents got really worried. Luckily, someone accidentally sat on me and I will NEVER forget a lot of people outside in our front yard and someone brought me out to my mom and my mom was just holding me crying and saying "my baby, my baby!" She was kind of worried about me...if you ask any of our old neighbors they remember that day like it was yesterday!

Where are we going to eat monkey bread next year at Christmas? How am I going to tell someone where my parents live without a distinct landmark like "three trees in the driveway." How will I show my kids the house that built me?

Luckily, all of the people who made this house a home are still alive and well and of course that's all that really matters. My parents will buy a new house and we will start our own traditions there with our families but it just won't be the same. I love this house and will always remember the memories that it so generously gave me. Good bye 8301 Priest River Drive, it's been a great 21 years!

Wasted

2010-04-18T22:36:00.000-07:00

You know when you have heard a song for years but then something happens in your life and it completely changes the way you hear the lyrics? Well, that happened to me today as I was on my way to work. I was running late (shocker) and this song by Carrie Underwood came on the radio. As I was listening to the first part of the song, I just had goosebumps the whole time. It is actually making me want to go see Carrie Underwood in concert so I can hear this song live. Anybody with me?? And by the way, Carrie Underwood is so stinking hot. what.the.heck.

Click here for the video...it's a must see if you ask me.

Stuff White People Like

2010-03-08T23:28:00.001-08:00

I'm sure you have already heard of this book called Stuff White People Like but I wanted to share with you one of my all-time favorites. It makes me laugh every time mainly because every one and their new puppy at ACU sported a North Face jacket (myself included).

#87 Outdoor Performance Clothes

As white people get older, they like to make clear boundaries between their professional and personal lives. They don’t mind talking about their personal life at work, but they hate talking about their work life when they are enjoying a weekend or vacation. But with blackberries and laptops, white people could be working anywhere, at any time. So how do you know when they are off the clock? It’s easy, check their clothes.

When white people aren’t working, they generally like to wear Outdoor Performance Clothes. The top suppliers of these garments and accessories include North Face, REI, Mountain Equipment Co-Op, Columbia Sportswear, and Patagonia.

When you see white people wearing these, it is important that you do not discuss business matters. Instead you should say things like “where did you get that fleece?” and “what’s that thing holding your keys to your shorts?” White people will be more than happy to talk to you about their sustainably produced possessions.

The main reason why white people like these clothes is that it allows them to believe that at any moment they could find themselves with a Thule rack on top of their car headed to a national park. It could be 4:00 p.m. on a Saturday when they might get a call “hey man, you know what we need to do? Kayak then camping, right now. I’m on my way to get you, there is no time to change clothes.”

Though it is unlikely that they will receive this call, White people hate the idea of missing an opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities because they weren’t wearing the right clothes.

If you plan on spending part of your weekend with a white person, it is strongly recommended that you purchase a jacket or some sort of “high performance” t-shirt, which is like a regular shirt but just a lot more expensive.

For more entertaining observations click here. Some more of my favorites include #49 vintage, # 106 facebook, # 112 hummus and last but definitely not least...# 124 hating people who wear Ed Hardy.

"Murder in the City"

2010-03-06T21:50:00.000-08:00

Two friends have randomly brought up The Avett Brothers in the past couple of weeks so I thought I would share with yall my love for their music. I have seen them in concert and it was awesome! They have one song in particular that I always make my friends listen to because it is so sweet. Two of the guys in the band are brothers (hints the name) and I think they wrote this together. The first two verses are slow, but the last verse is incredible. Just stick it out to the last line of the song and you will be glad that you did. It makes me so thankful for my sweet family.

"...always remember there was nothing worth sharing like the love that let us share our name."

Hope you are enjoying your beautiful day with those you love!

I'm Baaaack.

2010-03-03T21:41:00.000-08:00

Did you notice my completely new format and awesome yellow damask design? Probably not because you haven't looked at my blog in six months but you can thank Marie for my awesome layout! If you need help spicing up your blog, I know Marie would love to help you.

Sometimes it's scary to think about what I've been doing with my life the past few months because there's always that fear of not being able to think of something cool or significant. Luckily, I don't feel that way at all. Let's see, here are a few things that are worth mentioning: read Donald Miller's new book (highly recommended), started a temporary job that ended up being not so temporary and came out with some good friends, went to Canton w/Marie, became an Aunt to a precious little girl, read The Alchemist (another highly recommended book), moved to South Austin, rang in the new year in a fun party dress downtown (& a kiss at midnight!), cheered on UT in the National Championship on 6th street, attended a wig and mustache party while wearing a hot pink wig, started waiting tables again and so many other things. Do you feel like I've been blogging about all of these things for the past six months because I kind of do.

The last thing I mentioned was that I am waiting tables again. Through my 4 day training, I came to realize why America is so freaking fat. We are highly encouraged after every item that a customer orders to offer their steak/sides to be smothered or loaded. Smothered=adding mushrooms, onions and cheese. Loaded=butter, sour cream, bacon and cheese. People "load" their mashed potatoes. And their fries. Oh and after we offer an extra 500 calories to the already grossly huge portion sizes, we are encouraged to offer shrimp drowning in a butter lemon sauce for only $1.99 more. If you're on a diet...please don't come and visit me. I might try to pressure you to smother your applesauce. I'm just saying...

One glorious day my life was forever changed when I discovered the little green notebook. Jenny is the author...we're on a first name basis mainly because I feel like I know her and I'm pretty sure we would be friends. She is an interior decorator and she is so great at finding awesome, cheap items and turning them into fabulous, valuable pieces. A girl after my own heart. Did I mention she gives a step by step tutorial on how to conquer those big DIY projects. The picture below is not her design but I took it from her website. Grey, you had me from hello. I can't get enough of you!!!

Speaking of grey and yellow, I really want to buy this wallpaper and then figure out a way to use it later. I'm sure I could decoupage it to something...

I'm so glad I have made my appearance in the blogosphere after a 6 month hiatus. I have found a lot of really cool blogs and websites which I anticipate on sharing with the three of you who read my blog. (I might be flattering myself with that big #3)

Snow? Rain? Sunshine? It could be all three in one day. No matter what the forecast, enjoy your beautiful day!

2009-12-08T19:25:00.000-08:00

this blog is in the process of being re-designed. please excuse the way that it looks right now! thanks!

Best Week Ever

2009-06-28T13:53:00.000-07:00

This past week (and a half) was awesome! Three great things happened this past week: I was a bridesmaid in Kim and John Garrett's wedding, I went to the beach with Marie and Lyla and I met Lauren Conrad from the Hills.

I rode with Chris, Elena and Sam to Abilene on Thursday and that was when all the Kim and John festivities began. Thursday we celebrated with Kim for her "bachelorette" party and that was fun and entertaining to say the least! Friday was the bridal luncheon, rehearsal and rehearsal dinner. I always like when people have their friends (at the dinner) get up and speak on their behalf because it makes it very sweet and personal. Unfortanutely, I get really nervous in front of people when I speak so I never stand up and say something. I always want to, but I never do. I don't have a cute or subtle cry, so if I start to cry when I am speaking I just end up apologizing for crying and then I lose my train of thought...not very graceful at all. I wanted to speak at Josh and Emily's, Garrett and Stacy's, Karissa and Justin's and Kim and John's rehearsal dinner but my nerves got the best of me. Maybe I should take toastmasters or something. Anyways, Saturday was awesome! John couldn't take his eyes off of Kim and they seemed so happy to be getting married! There were a lot of ACU people there that I hadn't seen in awhile which is always fun to catch up with old friends. That night, Kim and John arranged for the wedding party and close friends/family to come out to Perini's Steakhouse for dinner. I had a great time catching up with Becca and Emily (my old roommates). I miss those girls a lot! On Sunday, a group of ACU people got together for lunch and then saw the hangover before everyone went their separate ways. I get shy in front of big groups of people so I was pretty quiet on Saturday night/Sunday but I still had so much fun. I felt so blessed being a part of Kim and John's big day! And what a fun group of people to have in your wedding if I do say so myself!

Then after the wedding, Marie, Lyla and I went to Mustang Island for two days. It was only 3 and half hours away from Austin. Um, where have I been? Where we went was amazing because it wasn't crowded and the water felt great. I could have stayed there for a week. Hanging out with Marie is great because we know each other so well that we don't feel the need to always talk or be funny. We can just be ourselves and not be worried about what the other one is thinking. Marie has seen the good, bad and ugly side of me so there is nothing to hide! After relaxing with Marie's sweet mom and sister we headed back to Austin only to turn around the next day and do something we had both been anticipating for a week.

Ok, let me just say that you can make fun of us all you want. We are not at all ashamed to admit that we have a big friend crush on LC. We have both watched her since Laguna Beach and when I found out she was going to be in Austin I was pretty excited!! I had never been to a book signing so I was very interested to see how this was going to work. First, you buy the book and then get a wristband. After you get your wristband you come back and wait for them to call your band's color. Luckily, since we had Lyla we kind of got the baby VIP treatment. haha Since we had a stroller, they had to take us on the elevator to the floor LC was at. When we walked through the door she was right there and it was so weird! I wasn't expecting to see her that quickly so I got a little flustered and I couldn't stop laughing (Marie was making me laugh). I seriously felt like a tween meeting the Jonas brothers. As silly as it sounds, meeting LC was so much fun and it made my day.

I added a play list with a bunch of random songs that I love to listen to. The worship songs are close to my heart because of Austin Stone and my brother and I listen to those songs while riding around in his truck. Johnny Cash is great because my brother and I will sit on his front porch at night on the farm and listen to Johnny on his record player. Take it easy is what I listen to when I need to relax and put things into perspective. I love "I got soul but I'm not a soldier" because of that Nike commercial. If you don't know what I'm talking about you HAVE to watch! It's so inspiring!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-ae3tFI8wXE Ray LaMontagne is one of my new favorite singers and of course, beautiful day by U2 was the inspiration for this blog!

Take time to have fun and enjoy your beautiful day!

Summer time and the livin's easy...(because I'm unemployed!)

2009-06-17T20:26:00.001-07:00

Ok sorry for waiting three months to post a new blog! I have no excuse since last summer my excuse was that I was in Africa with internet access every other day. I changed my blog format and I absolutely love it!!! I searched and searched and finally there it was...the perfect free format.

I started my job search and needless to say it hasn't been going very well. I had a really sketchy interview and all I can say about that was the guy that was interviewing me 1) showed me documents with customers personal info including a ss# that I could have easily snatched 2) at one point said "man, I'm so good at what I do....am I superman? I must have an S on my chest." Um, yeah. Need I say more? I have about 12 applications pending and I am about to apply for approximately 10 more jobs tonight. It truly is about who you know and not what you know!

On a more interesting note, I experienced the coolest thing about a month ago and I think everyone should know about it. Ok, so here is how it went down. I started having really bad back pain. It kept getting worse everyday and finally it was so bad that I decided I needed to do something about it quickly. My friend Kelley was experiencing back pain earlier that year so I called her up because I remembered her saying that she went to this great back doctor that basically fixed her problems. First let me explain what NUCCA is and then I will tell you how it helped me A LOT!

This is taken from their website:
NUCCA is an upper cervical technique that is very gentle. The top vertebrae in the spine is called the Atlas, this is the bone that surrounds the brain stem and also the bone on which the skull sits. If this bone is not in the correct position, messages aren't going to travel properly from the brain to the rest of the body, or from the body back up to the brain. This phenomenon is known as nerve interference and it can show up in many different ways throughout our bodies. Some symptoms that might indicate your atlas is misaligned:

acid reflux (check)
allergies
asthma
a.d.d
cerebral palsy
constipation
depression
diabetes
digestive problems
female disorders
headaches (check)
infertility
knee problems
low back pain (check)
migrain headaches
nervousness (check)
numbness and tingling in limbs (check)
parkinson's
rehumatoid arthritis
t.m.j. (check...mild though, not terrible)

I got my initial "adjustment" and my doctor told me my atlas was shifted to the left and twisted four degrees. My head was permanently tilted to the side, one leg was longer than the other and I was putting 10 more pounds of weight on one leg than the other! Who knew?? As soon as my doctor aligned my atlas back into place my back pain instantly went away, my jaw didn't hurt after I chewed a piece of gum, my acid reflux hasn't come back, and I have had maybe one headache since my adjustment when before I would get like 3 or 4 a week. You can imagine why I am such a firm believer in it! And the best part about it is that it doesn't require any medicine and it's probably going to help me in the future to prevent more back, neck, knee, shoulder pain. Awesome huh?? It is in the chiropractic family so many people (especially doctors) are very suspicious of it but I am living proof that this kind of technique was exactly what I needed! This is also not like a trip to the chirporactor...they don't bend and twist you like a pretzel. This is simply a technique where they gently press on the sensitive part behind your ear. That's it. It is worth a try if you have any kind of chronic pain. Check it out! http://www.backnbalance.biz/about_nucca.html

A few more things...
I am going to Abilene for Kim and John's wedding this weekend
Marie and I are starting a fun crafty business to sell cute stuff at Canton
Karen is having a GIRL!!! I'm having a niece!
Elena is having a BOY!!!
I'm going to a fabulous book signing next week but hopefully I will have great picture to reveal who I might possibly get to meet. It's exciting...get pumped!

Alright, that's all I got. Keep your ears open to possible job opportunities for entry level management majors and in the mean time enjoy your beautiful day!

The End of an Era

2009-04-29T19:27:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I packed up all of my stuff that I have collected in the past five years in Abilene and moved back home. It was a very sad day and all I could say was, "I'm so sad" with tears rolling down my cheeks. I wasn't prepared for the sadness that overwhelmed me but then I started to think back on the past five years that I had spent in Abilene.

Where do I even begin?? I couldn't possibly write about all of the memories so I just listed them out!

Christie Thomas, my freshman and sophomore roommate
-messy...no, trashy dorm room(s)
-chocolate milk
-Family Guy!
-Oh what a night...doot doot doot de doot
-late night english lessons and grammer check
-buying a dog together while we stilled live in the dorm
-late night art projects (Christie's, not mine)
-"Do you like the Darkness?" Uh I mean yeah I like to leave a lamp on sometimes...
(I was referring to the band, The Darkness and she took it literal)

Freshman year
-Sing Song...I distinctly remember 1) making fun of "the group" and not b/c we were wishing we were apart of it but simply b/c they were an easy target. (I love you Emily!! I just didn't know you then and besides I didn't even know you were a part of "the group" until you told me.) 2) being a black key and getting to stand during the coolest part of the act 3) not only WINNING but also receiving an award for innovation. I'm not gonna to lie...we were awesome!
-Friday Fun Lunch
-BDub's
-nine o'clock
-the introduction of facebook
-living on the same hall as Jessica Jennings, Stacy Farmer, Elena Coggin and Shelby Skidmore!
-The Great Merger '04 also known as TGM '04
-Intramural games
-Austin road trip to Bwood's homecoming
-Elena's performance at Freshman Follies of Kelly Clarkson's Breakaway

Sigma Theta Chi
-rushing and pledging! Hands down, my favorite memory of pledging was when we stole the Kojie letters...uh-mazing!
-winning sing song even though they didn't announce us as the winners?
-serving as Treasurer my senior year
-Sunday night officer meetings
-supporting our intramural teams
-Elena passing down special siggie to me
-passing special siggie to Candice
-Elena's pass the key

Mr. Daniel Bynum
-going to prom w/my infamous high school boyfriend freshman year
-going to Daniel's playoff games for football my freshman year, they were one game away from the championship!
-watching Dan play intramural waterball, football and basketball
-taking a tennis class together! that was really fun b/c we later bought racquets for each other and we try to play every once and awhile
-worshipping in chapel together daily
-celebrating our one, two, three and four year anniversary!
-going to church (almost) every Sunday when we were in town
-numerous road trips mostly to Austin but also to DFW, San Antonio and Monroe, Louisiana
-countless club events including formals, christmas socials, mystery match, fajita fiesta, and my favorite, Siggie/Moonie Skate
-playing tennis, racquetball, and basketball at school and at the park by Daniel's house
-cooking pizza from scatch and other yummy meals that we will store in our recipe box for the future
-taking walks around ACU to catch up
-learning SO much about each other, , learning how to express our love and gratitude, growing up together and falling more in love =)

and only one more category and then I'm finished....

Precious friendships I made because I went to ACU and lived in Abilene...
-Benay Dennis
-Marie Nordman
-Christie Thomas
-Katelin East
-Amanda Wassmiller
-Stacy Upton
-Emily Saller
-Becca Frei
-Kim Leedy
-Cara Gentry
-Suzanne Langston
-Emily Barnes
-Becca Woolfolk
-Kaylie Huddleston
-Briana Litton
-Brooke Johnson
-Jessica Hopkins
-Candice Wood
-Leah Robison
-Sylvia Tucker, Cassey Owens and Jenny Dodd
-all my friends that I knew before ACU and still love today!

I know this was super long but it feels great to reminisce about Abilene and all that it had to offer me! I could seriously write all night long about great memories from college b/c it was such a great time in my life but for now I hope you enjoy your beautiful day, wherever you may be. =)

Meagan Lately

2009-03-06T11:50:00.000-08:00

Well this blog might be kind of long since I have not posted in awhile! Oops! If you have tried to keep up with my blog you know by now how bad I am at posting.

Where do I start? I could tell you about Christmas but that was so long ago I can barely remember anything significant except for my nephew stealing the show and being as cute as a button. Speaking of nephews....my sister-in-law is pregnant! Luke is set on having a baby sister and Karen said that he kisses her belly every morning and will tell Karen that he can hear her. I wish I could move in with them and hang out with Luke everyday! Karen and Ashton always have funny stories about what Luke is up to that day. I talked to him on "Balentines" Day (Luke sometimes pronounces v's as b's) and he said, "I love you today." Needless to say that melted my little heart. He turns three in May and I can't believe it!

Speaking of pregnancies...there will be a very special baby arriving one month before Luke's new sibling. Chris and Elena are going to be having a baby! She is already three months pregnant and they will soon find out the sex of the baby. So exciting!!! I will definitely be updating my blog with news about both pregnancies!

For three days I have been Ms. Suzanne Langston's substitute. The teacher that Suzanne student teaches with went out of town therefore I was hired to sit here while Suzanne teaches. It has been so much fun!

A couple of weeks ago ACU put on their 53rd (ish) Sing Song Production. I can't describe to you how wonderful it was to come when the show started and leave when the show ended. No practice, no face paint and no community red lipstick. Don't get me wrong, I love sing song but I appreciated the fact that I didn't have to participate this year. I was very proud of my little siggies even though they didn't "win" the whole thing they still continued the eight year streak of winning vocals without any help from alumni or freshman! =)

Karissa and I have become running partners and it has motivated to be more active! I have enjoyed jogging and walking together and it is amazing how your self confidence changes when you work out. I know my body doesn't look that different but I feel so much better about myself and that is very important.

I am going to San Antonio with Karissa and Kelley for the next couple of days as a sort of "spring break." They are some of my close friends from high school and we always enjoy each other's company no matter where we are!

I hope you enjoy your spring break AND your beautiful day!

p.s. In my next post I plan on putting up pictures from Daniel's Senior Art Show!

loving life

2008-11-10T21:49:00.000-08:00

Well, I am attempting to start a blog and actually keep it updated. My first attempt was this summer when I went to Africa but that didn't work at all! I am so jealous of my other friends who can keep an interesting/regular blog going. Here is a little update since I last wrote a blog.

Since my return from Uganda I have been living in the same house but with three new roommates! Needless to say they have been absolutely fabulous. Even though we all don't hang out together too often it is a lot of fun when we do. They are the kind of girls who are very refreshing and fun to be around!

In October, I applied to work at Copper Creek and now I am waiting tables there full time. It has been very interesting and definitely a learning experience but I love it! Hearing what non-ACU people have to say about ACU and Christians in general has been eye opening. I feel like God has used some of the people and experiences at Copper Creek to open my eyes to the real world outside of my christian school bubble. I have a good idea of what people think of ACU who live in Abilene...and most of the comments haven't been very positive! Unfortunately I got to experience first hand what a lot of my employees have complained about. The only table that has made me cry (not on the spot, I was in the bathroom of course!) was an ACU mother and some of her "wealthy" friends. To be treated like that by a Christian woman made my heart sad and very disappointed. It was as if I owed her something because I was serving her lunch. She has no idea that I knew who she was SO if anything I learned that you NEVER know who you are talking to and literally everyone you come into contact with will be affected by your attitude whether you think so or not. A simple smile can go so far so the next time you go into a restaurant, treat the waiter as if they were...me...or a friend!

Daniel has been really busy with his two jobs and 15 hours of senior art classes but he is enjoying his senior year! I can't believe we are 22. We celebrated our four year anniversary at the end of August and we are loving life and just living in the moment together. When the timing is right we will get engaged and everyone will definitely know when that happens. =) I will try to post blogs regularly to tell you about my life and everything that is going on but until then enjoy your beautiful day.

Worst Blogger of All Time!

2008-07-10T13:50:00.000-07:00

I have officially named myself as one of the worst blogger's of all time! I apologize to all of the people that I gave my blog address to and told them that I would be writing about Africa. It has been well over two weeks and still no blog entry! This post is going to be a recap of everything that I haven't blogged about so far!

Top 10 Favorite Things/Moments/Reasons I love Uganda!

#10: Representing the great state of Texas among many Michigan interns and missionaries.
(let me just say that I have had to explain what Tex-Mex is more than once...)

#9: The red dirt. If you have been to Africa you know what I mean!

#8: The adorable children! I have never seen so many cute children in my life! The kids in the village love to see "mzungus" or white people and they also love stickers, soccer balls and bubbles.

#7: The Bogle's, Langford's, Garner's and Manry's. This team in Jinja is incredible! Every night we get a chance to eat with a different family and this has been such a wonderful experience to get to know each couple on a personal level! I couldn't have picked a better group of "mzungus" to be modeling God's love to His people in Africa!

#6: Rafting down the Nile. Yeah, I rafted the Nile! I have a video to prove it.

#5: Witnessing some of Adam Bogle's very first steps! He is walking everywhere now!

#4: Receiving many laughs from the village church when I told them that I just graduated with a business degree. I don't think women and business mix in the village.

#3: For all you golfers out there, this was the first rule on the score card at the Jinja Golf Club:

Local Rule 1- On the green, if a hippo footmark interferes with the line of the ball, or the line of the putt the ball may be lifted and placed not near the hole, but on the ground that avoids these conditions.

#2: Experiencing the ultimate "fish bowl" feeling. Almost everyday that we drive out into the village it feels like we are living in a fish bowl. People just stop and stare as you drive by b/c mzungus in a car out in the village is pretty unusual!

#1: Stepping up to the second hole on the Jinja Golf Course and seeing four Ugandan army men lounging in the fairway with machine guns. We had to skip holes 2, 3 and 4 b/c the Ugandan president was in town and they were "protecting" him even though the soldiers didn't look like they were on duty. Oh well!

Well, this list tells a little bit about what has gone on so far! I plan on writing another entry tomorrow night so I can fill everyone in on my experiences with the culture and what the interns do on a daily basis! Thanks for being patient and I promise to be a better blogger from here until August!

First Stop: London

2008-06-22T15:33:00.000-07:00

We have landed safely in London and for the past two days we have been touring the city! I went to London in high school on my senior trip but I honestly can't remember a lot of what we did b/c we did so many things in Scotland and England...they all kind of ran together towards the end! I loved coming to England in high school but being with two other people with the freedom to do whatever we want when we want has been so much fun! Garrett, Stacy and I have had a blast so far together. We are keeping a journal of all of the funny things that have been said or that have happened to us since we landed. Trying to figure out the bus system and the "tube" have thrown us a few curve balls along the way but that is what makes it fun.

So far we have been to St. Paul's Cathedral, Shakespeare's Globe, the Tower Bridge, the London Tower, the show, Chicago, Windsor Castle, Trufulgar Square and the National Gallery. Let me just tell you right now...if you ever come to London, don't see Chicago! I have heard that it is amazing in NY but London not so much. There wasn't even a costume change and the cast was about 10 people each playing a couple of different roles (and very little props....mostly black chairs that they danced on). That has really been our only disappointment the whole trip...everything else has been incredible! Windsor Castle is a must if you come to London. We all loved going there today (Sunday) and we look forward to what is in store for tomorrow. We leave on Tuesday to meet up with the rest of the interns. Next time I write an entry I will be in Uganda! Please keep all of the interns in your prayers as we will all be traveling on Tuesday to Africa.