Currently..

Reading...
Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov. This really is the strangest book, but I can't seem to put it down. The writing is so interesting. I still haven't decided if I want to finish it or not. I will have to let you know.

Watching...
I am HOOKED on Breaking Bad you guys. I seriously can't stop watching it. I have been house sitting for the past two weeks, so I have developed a steady relationship with Netflix. I finished the entire first season of American Horror Story in less than 24 hours, and now I can't stop watching Breaking Bad. I'm not really sure what I am going to do when I go home and have no Netflix!

Playing...
I have been obsessed with the new Luna Lune album. It is brilliant I tell you. BRILLIANT!

Dreaming...
I can't stop thinking about my trip planned for Europe this summer. It is still a while away, but it is finally close enough were it actually seems real. I am going to Europe! What the heck? Not only am I going to Europe, but I get to go with one of my best friends! I am so beyond thrilled if you couldn't tell.

 

Excited About...

First off, this beautiful camera I got for Christmas that will forever be the love of my life. Like for real though. I have so many ideas that I can now capture because of this beauty. Soo beyond stoked. I am also really excited about New Years. I have always really loved New Years, and I have no idea why. This one is going to be a good one. I can just feel it. I am so excited to hang out with friends, and start the new year.

 

I have been catching up on my blog reading, and loving every one's recaps of the year. I have decided to do a little recap of my own. Nothing too detailed. Just some things that this year taught me I guess. This was definitely a learning year, and a year for adjusting to change. Earlier this year something happened in my life that really changed everything. It changed my day-to-day life, and it made me think about what I really wanted in life, and what was really important to me. When it happened I kind of felt like my whole world was ending, and I really had to take some time to figure out myself I guess. As awful as the situation was, I am so grateful it happened. I have never been happier, honestly. I figured out how truly wonderful my friends are. Seriously, I wouldn't be where I am today without them. They helped me get through the summer, and have a freaking blast. Drive- in movies, late night trips to Village Inn, running through sprinklers, going to parties, going to concerts, having that one PERFECT summer night, and of course a butt load of laughing and sore stomachs. I wouldn't trade my friends for anything in the world.

I also learned that everything happens for a reason. Sometimes it takes a VERY long time to figure out that reason, but once you do it is like the universe makes sense. Haha I am a firm believer in things happen for a reason. I have had to many amazing experiences because of it, and so many life realizations.

So although this year was definitely a tough one, a year of having to completely start over and a year of having to figure out how to live life differently, it is a year I will never forget and a year that I really think has shaped me into who I am now. I am so unbelievably grateful for the experiences I had this year, and all those who were there to support me, and help me through it. Even though things sucked for quite a while, this has been the best year and I am so excited for the adventures of 2013.

 

Happy New Year everyone!

All Fall Down

I don't know why it is so hard for me to post when I am on break. You think it would be easier since I have more time. Apparently not! Anyway, how was every one's holiday? I will have to say mine was absolutely fantastic. I got a new camera! Like a nice one. I seriously almost started crying when I got it. Probably because it was the last thing I was expecting. I have been so stoked to try it out, so I grabbed my friend Katie and started my black and white film project. The song we did was "All Fall Down" by OneRepublic.

 

I know these photos are not film, but I did take the same pictures with film. I just have to go develop it. I couldn't resist shooting with my new camera, so here is a little sneak peak of what hopefully turned out on film.

 

 

 "Step out the door, and it feels like rain."

 "Take a breath, take a step, meet me down below"

 "Know that we all fall down."

 "Every one's the same from our fingers to our toes."

 "Whenever your world starts crashing down, that's where you'll find me."

 "Strong until you break."

"We just can't get it right, but we're on the road."



B&W Film Project

So you know how on my list of 20 Before 21 I put that I wanted to do a black and white film project? Well I figured out today what exactly I am doing, and I couldn't be more stoked! It might end up being a bit of a test run though. Especially since I haven't used film for about a year. Hopefully I will be able to get back into the swing of things.

I guess I should probably tell you what I am doing now. I have decided on doing a series of photos based on songs. Basically, I have chosen six songs that I am going to use, and with each song I will create a mini series of photographs. I will be going through each song and finding lyrics that mean something to me, and the photos will be my interpretation of those lyrics. Some of the songs I chosen were chosen just because it painted a picture in my head, and I knew instantly what I wanted to do with it. Other songs have a deeper meaning for me, and might not make sense to anyone else. I think that is ok though. They really mean something to me, and I think it will give those viewing them a little glimpse of my experiences and some of the things I have been through.

The six songs I have chosen are the following..

1. "All Fall Down" by OneRepublic
2. "The High Road" by Three Days Grace
3. "Yellow Light" by Of Monsters & Men
4. "Music Box" by Thrice
5. "Walk With Me" by Luna Lune
6. "Skinny Love" by Bon Iver

I have never been this excited about a project before. I am keeping my fingers crossed that everything will go well. I know I am so excited about this, because I am pretty much combining my two loves. Here is to hoping I can make some magic happen! Wish me luck!

20 Before 21

So as I mentioned in my last post, this last weekend was my birthday. Last year I made myself a 19 Before 20 list which I failed at miserably. I think it was because I didn't really take the time to think of things I REALLY wanted to do. I am going to try it again this year, and I will see if it actually works. If I don't do anything on it I will stop. I really don't like lists like this. That is why I never come up with New Years' resolutions. I tried to think of things that could actually happen. Just fun and silly things really. I think it will help to put the list on the blog, so I can cross things off as I go! Maybe that will give me some motivation. I guess we will see. Here is what I came up with..

20 Before 21

1. Black & White Concert Project
2. Do a "What I Wore" post on the blog everyday for a month
3. Learn how to ride a fixed gear
4. Go to Moab
5. Take a legit train somewhere
6. Black & White Film Project
7. Learn how to sail
8. Finish the Book of Mormon
9. Run a 5K
10. Go to a Grouplove concert
11. Go to Sundance Film Festival
12. Make a video for every month
13. Read all the Harry Potter books
14. Put turquoise in my hair
15. Don't go shopping for a month
16. Stand under the Eiffel Tour
17. See a concert in Europe
18. Hike Mt. Olympus
19. Get a pizza box drawing
20. Dance on stage with a band at a concert



That is quite the list isn't it? I am pretty stoked about it. I have a lot to look forward to this next year. I feel like I should explain some of the things on here. Really just the black & white projects. For the black & white concert project I want to take one photo of every single band I see starting Jan. 1! Pretty awesome right? I might need to get a good camera for this though. I will have to figure that out.

For the second black & white project I want to take pictures of every day happenings. Things like people walking their dog, grocery shopping, or meeting a friend at a cafe. Of course I am going to do this all in film which is my favorite way to take pictures. I love not knowing how a picture is going to turn out. Getting film developed is always so exciting. My first semester of college I took a dark room photography class, and I have been in love with film ever since. There really is just something about film. It is such a hands on process. You seriously take care of that photo from the point you take until it is printed on a piece of photo paper. I don't really know how to explain it. I just love film, and that is why I don't have a digital camera.

Now for some random stuff. I played the piano for the first time in probably six months last week. It was kind of crazy. I just have these random days were I just sit down at the piano, and end up playing for three hours strange. It is quite strange. I kind of have this love hate relationship with the piano. In all, I have probably only taking about a year and a half of piano lessons my whole life.. maybe. I mostly taught myself to play, and by teaching myself I mean learning to play by ear. I was actually pretty good at it, but that talent quickly faded. Turns out if you don't continually train yourself to play by ear, it kind of goes away. Who knew?!

I have never really known what I want from the piano. For a very long time I was planning on becoming a music therapist. Music has always kind of been my thing. It has been the only thing I have had at some points in time. I don't know. I guess I don't know where I would be without music, and I know a lot of people feel this same way. I get really cheesy when I talk about music, so I should probably stop talking about it. Haha Really the only thing I guess I have to say is I believe that music is the one thing that connects us all. It is the one thing that people agree on, and it is the one thing that I believe makes us one. Does that make any sense? Probably not. I am going to stop now. I guess I have a love hate relationship with the piano, because I am disappointed in myself that I gave up on it. That is why I don't play anymore. It just reminds me of what I gave up on. I know it will always be a part of me though. That is why every six or so months I can't help but play. It is kind of the love of my life, or something like that. I am just always amazed at how I cannot play for six months, and then start playing like I never stopped. I guess I will never get it. It's just a part of me.

I watched the movie Like Crazy yesterday. I should not watch that movie. Haha It just makes me think way to much, and it makes me all creative and crap. I don't have time for this nonsense! I woke up, and all I wanted to do was grab my camera and head up the mountains. Or go to a book store, and wander around for hours. The sad thing is this won't go away for probably a week. I guess I will just have to give in at some point.

Well that is enough rambling for one day. I hope you all have a fantastic Tuesday!

I'm Alright (It's Heavy)

So pretty much I have been a complete slacker, but once finals ended I didn't have the energy to do anything. I am back though, so yay. I am going to pick up with having Music Monday on a Tuesday. I don't care if it doesn't make sense. I am doing it.

Two weeks ago I went to a show at Kilby Court with some friends. We went to see The North Valley of course, but also Holy Water Buffalo was playing. You guys... Holy Water Buffalo. These guys are seriously amazing, so I decided to pick one of their songs for today.

These guys really know how to put on a show. I had known who they were prior to this concert, so I was so stoked to see them live. It is always cool to see local bands perform. They really are a neat group of guys. I was kind of blown away by them. Once they started playing I knew I would have to leave soon because it was snowing like crazy and the roads were a mess, but I just couldn't leave. They are one of those bands were like every single song is your favorite. This song is one of my favorites, but my all time favorite is "Better Kind of Love." I suck at the internet, and couldn't find a recording of it so you get to listen to a live version I found. Yay!

They didn't play this song at the show I saw, but hopefully I will get to see it live someday. Isn't their hair just fantastic?! I don't know what it is about long hair. It is just fantastic.

Well, hopefully you enjoy these guys. I bought their music on itunes, so definitely go check it out! You won't be disappointed I promise.

This past weekend was my birthday, so I have been having all sorts of fun! I dragged all my girlfriends to Provo to go see The North Valley play at Muse Music Cafe (which is one of my favorite places). There was seriously like 15 people MAYBE which I thought was awesome. I am sure they guys probably would have wanted more people, but I still had a blast. They played a new song which was FANTASTIC, and they even sang my happy birthday. How awesome is that? These guys really are so awesome, and I have had so much fun the last month going to their shows and getting to know them a little bit. I know these guys are going to do great things for the music world, and it is cool to watch it all play out.

I really had the best birthday ever you guys. Hanging out with friends, making new ones, and spending some much needed time with my family. It was seriously one of the best birthdays ever. Thank you everyone who made it awesome. I seriously have the best friends and family out there. You should be jealous.

Happy Tuesday!

College Street Style: Kramer

So remember how last week I said that I had only done girls so far, but that I had it covered. This is what I meant by that. This is Kramer everyone. So remember that band The North Valley that I may have seen once or twice... Well he is the pianist. How awesome is that!

Name: Kramer

Major: Biomedical Engineering (possible double major in philosophy... I think)

What do you like to wear?

"Skinny jeans mostly. Lots of blacks, browns, and toned down earth color. I basically wear this same leather jacket everyday, and I wear a lot of cardigans."

Who or what inspires your style?

"Probably bands, actually. Not music wise, but style wise like The Strokes or The Black Keys. You know like lots of city looking stuff, but then every once in a while I'll wear like a flannel."

 

Isn't his style freaking awesome you guys? Another reason I like these North Valley guys. Their style is fantastic if you couldn't tell by Kramer alone. Just sayin'. A big thanks to Kramer for being the first guy on here, and for being willing to meet with pretty much a complete stranger! I had the most wonderful time getting to talk to you, and I will see you and the other guys at your next show. Not like I go to all of them or anything... because that would be weird. Oops.

 

Finals are officially OVER for me. I am so happy I could probably cry. To celebrate, I have some awesome concerts I plan on going to later this week. Any Eli Whitney or Officer Jenny fans out there? I sure hope so, because that would just be sad. Also, it is my birthday this weekend! Whoo! I have no clue what I am going to do, but hopefully there will be some awesome shows once the weekend rolls around. Wouldn't want to spend my birthday any other way.

 

I think it is time to post more Instagram photos. I am only doing this because I have failed to tell you about my weekend, and this will help me remember. Yeah...

1. Let's just say the stress of finals was getting to me.
2. My friend Kelly got married! Still not sure how I feel about people my age getting married, but it was kind of the cutest wedding ever. She had a milk and cookie bar. Uh, yes please!
3. Thank you Blue Star for being the only source of energy I had all week.
4. What I have to look forward to this lovely Christmas break! And there is more on the way!

1. This is what I do when I get bored at work... play with army men.
2. Oh yeah. I changed my hair. It is brown now.
3. I might have gone to see The North Valley again this weekend... Don't judge me!

Have a lovely Tuesday everyone! 

 

P.s- This will be the last College Street Style post for the year. Sad day I know. I will try to come up with something else for the next little while. Maybe some style posts on myself... I make not promises!







Holding On

It is funny the songs you will come across when you put your ipod on shuffle. That is exactly how I came across "Holding On" by Scary Kids Scaring Kids, and boy was it a trip down memory lane. So two years ago I was dating a fella that was really into this music, so I really took a liking to it as well. Ever since then it kind of stuck. This was the second show I had EVER been to with this kind of music, and it just happened to be the Scary Kids Scaring Kids farewell show. Depressing I know. When you listen to this song you will most likely learn something you never knew about me. Yes, I still like this music. I don't listen to it all that often, but it holds a very special place in my heart. Every once in a while I get in the mood to listen to this music, and I am currently in one of those moods. It has been fantastic.

 

So because it only happens every once in a while I don't have too much music like this. Anyone have any recommendations of bands like this?? Anything would be fantastic. Please don't think differently of me when you hear this. I promise it is good!

 

 

 

This live video is actually from their show in Utah at Murray Theatre! Believe it or not, I am one of those bobbing heads. Haha I know the video is pretty crappy quality, but I just had to post it. I mean I was there! I am probably in the video. Man, that was such a fun show. After Scary Kids Scaring Kids finished Saosin played. It was so fantastic.

 

I am sorry if this wasn't your cup of tea, but it is part of who I am. I seriously have such a soft spot for this type of music as strange as it sounds. I might not listen to it all that often, but it never fails to give me chills every time it happens to come on shuffle.

 

Tomorrow will officially be the end of finals for me. Can I get a hallelujah?! Like for real, I can't believe my brain hasn't completely melted out of my head. I would say finals have been a success based on this fact alone. Now that school is over, I am trying to figure out what to do with this much needed break. I can't really think of anything. Hopefully I will be going to some fun shows! I already have a few in mind I plan on attending. Can you say You Me & Apollo?? Oh yeah!

 

Other than that I am trying to find something fun to do on New Years'. I am really hoping to find something awesome considering this will probably be my last one I can celebrate for two years. I actually really enjoy New Years'. I like the traditions that come with it. It has just always been a favorite for me. I have never had some extravagant New Years' experience or anything. Honestly, I think most people have WAY to high of expectations for it. I just think celebrating the start of a new year is something worth celebrating I guess. I am pretty sure I am not making any sense. Finals have ruined me you guys. I for real think I need to just sleep for a straight week. I will let you know how that goes.

 

Happy Monday.



CM Recap: The Lesson

Alright, so before I go crazy about the freaking amazing episode of Criminal Minds yesterday, I am going to tell you a story.

 

Once upon a time I went to this Mary Kay party thing on a Wednesday (aka Criminal Minds day), and I didn't get home until like 10:30pm. Everything was good though because I had recorded the newest Matthew Gray Gubler (aka favorite human) episode. I was set! I walked in the door, and my younger brother (who actually looks like an older brother, because he is so freaking tall) was watching sports center, or whatever the heck it is called. I calmly (not calmly) told him he needed to get out, because I needed to watch the new episode of Criminal Minds. You know what he did? Pretended he was asleep. Are you effing kidding me right now? I was not a happy camper. I will not explain how I got him to leave, but I did get him to leave.

 

So now I was preparing myself. I had been waiting a good month for this episode. Not only did Gubler direct it, but this was the episode that the "mystery" girl was going to be revealed. Let's just say I pretty much had to mentally prepare myself all day for it. I was ready now. I found the recorded episode and started it. As it started I was a little confused. They were showing a preview of the next week's episode. What the heck? SOOO confused. Then... it happened. The effing Grammy Nomination whatever started playing. WHAT THE HECK!!!! I was furious. I don't know how it happened, but my dang tv recorded the Grammy thing instead of Criminal Minds. Are you even kidding me? It wasn't even the Grammys!!! They made an entire show/concert for the "reveal" of the Grammy nominations! What is this?! Who does that?!

 

Now I sat with the tv paused just hoping I could will it with my brain powers to start playing Criminal Minds. It did not work. So now I am calling my friend Paige whose phone has just died. It was 11:00pm, and I was ready to drive over to her house, bang on the door, and demand she let me watch Criminal Minds on her tv. I didn't end up doing that, but I wanted to! Instead I called her a billion and one times. So as I am almost in tears, yes actual tears, I fumble through my phone trying to see if there are any episodes online yet. Guess how many websites had the episode that was only released two hours ago...ZERO!

 

After this I thought I was defeated, but I was not giving up. I tried to calm myself down a little bit (with no success) and decided to look it up on my computer. You guys... I seriously don't even know how it happened. I really must be living right because CBS put it on their website. Heck freaking yeah! It truly was a miracle. Especially since that was the first place I checked, and it hadn't been there the first time I checked. I could finally breath again. I then started what is probably the greatest episode EVER.... Now I am actually going to talk about it.

 

Alright, so I am pretty much just going to go through from the very beginning and talk about everything that came to my head. Sound good?

 

First off, mystery girl and Reid talking in like the first five minutes! Already dead. Seriously, I died. I wasn't digging the scarf that looked like a turtle neck that Reid was wearing, but I got over it. Then what the she has a stalker, and what the she decides out of nowhere she wants to meet Reid! Well alright then. And what the she calls him Spence. Best thing of my life. You guys, Reid is in love! It is so fantastic!

 

One of the victims has my car! Whoo! My car is in an episode of Criminal Minds. It is fantastic.

 

Alright, now for the dislocating of the shoulders... are you even serious? I seriously felt like I was going to throw up, but I couldn't stop watching it! That seriously might have been one of the most disturbing things I have ever seen. Like for real, I have chills right now even thinking about it. It was just plain nasty. Ewwwww!

Okay, now I don't even know what to think. Umm human marionettes?? Are you even kidding me?? Who comes up with this stuff? How freaking creepy is that?!
Now about this dance/performance of the human marionette. You guys, this might be the creepiest thing I have ever seen. At the same time, this might be the most beautiful thing I have ever seen. Freaking Matthew Gray Gubler! What are you doing to my head. You want to hate this performance soo much because of what is happening, but you can't help but admire the beauty of it all. It seriously was stunning, which makes you feel like a creep because you enjoyed it! So many mixed feelings! It really is magnificent though. Here is a video I found. The quality is absolutely awful, but hopefully you can see the beauty of it.

 

 So now it is time for Reid talking about his "mystery" girl. Are you even kidding me? Is he even real? Who freaking writes this stuff?

"She is already the most beautiful girl in the world to me."

"I just wouldn't want to ruin something so special over something so trivial as looks."

No, I did not watch that part like five times...

This was the one and only time I have actually like the new girl. Wow, I don't even know her name. That is how much of an impression she has made on me. This scene were she is talking with Reid actually made me start to like her, and I think I am going to learn her name now.

But seriously you guys, this scene was the cutest thing on the planet. Reid is pretty much perfect.

Ok, now it is time to freak out some more about how absolutely insane and creepy this episode was! Ok, let's get to the actual performance. First off I am all like, "Wtf, this guy has an audience? If they only freaking knew!" Then I was all, "Wtf, the midget is a freaking doll!!" After the F.B.I come in and catch the sucker I am all, "Why the heck are these people clapping?" AND THEN I was like, "WTF, THE AUDIENCE IS FREAKING PUPPETS!"

This episode I swear! It was like five minutes of just mind blowing information. You would think one thing was enough, and then there was another freaking twist! It is two days later, and I am still recovering from it. I just don't understand who could possibly come up with the stuff. Brilliance I tell you! Brilliance!

 

So after the crazy twists ended it was time for the date! The date! As in Reid was meeting the freaking mystery girl! I have been waiting a month for this, and then... it doesn't even happen! Fml.

I did think the getting ready scene was hilarious! They are too perfect together. It is just unreal. I know it is a dang tv show, but I love it. I was disapointed that they didn't get to meet, but the revealed her face! Finally! If they hadn't done this, I probably would have thrown my computer. I couldn't take it anymore. So yay to knowing the face of the mystery girl!

She is perfect.

 



College Street Style: Sara

So I was lucky enough to meet with the lovely Sara for this weeks college street style photo extravaganza. It seriously was so fantastic. We only met for a couple minutes, but Sara is for real one of my favorite humans. She is just hilarious. I think you will be able to tell that from the photos. Here is the lovely Sara.

Name: Sara

Major: Journalism with a Minor in Film and Media Arts

What do you like to wear?

"I like to wear skirts, dresses, and colorful tights."

What or who inspires your style?

"My inspiration is the old days when ladies were ladies, and I try to stand by that lifestyle. I only wear jeans on bad days. I couldn't care less about name brands. The cheaper it is, the more stoked I am to wear it. Otherwise I get nervous it will get ruined, and it sits in my closet. Except my Steve Madden boots. Best hundred bucks I ever spent."

 

Taking pictures of Sara was by far the most fun I have had since starting this. She was the only one that just went crazy, and it turned out brilliant. I also found my favorite spot on campus for pictures! Whoo!! I have realized that I have only had girls do this post, but don't you worry! I have got it covered.

 

This week has pretty much been insane so far, and it is only Tuesday. I am seriously going crazy. I feel like my brain has completely turned to mush. There is soo much to do! I just need to get through this week, and then life will be better again. Finals suck. I need to do some yoga. At least I have a fun weekend planned. Of course the definition of a fun weekend in my book includes CONCERTS! Heck yeah! I took a little break from my concert going last weekend, so I am ready to get back into the swing of things.

 

I am FINALLY getting a haircut this weekend, and I couldn't be more thrilled! It is seriously time. My hair is beyond crazy right now. I have got a "natural" ombre going on right now, and lets just say it isn't pretty. This appointment is much needed. I am seriously losing my mind over this dang hair. I don't really know what to do with it. It is at one of those awkward stages currently. It will almost be fixed!

 

Well happy studying to all of you that still have finals just around the corner. For those of you who don't have finals... you suck.

Happy Tuesday.







Heartlines

Ok, so pretty much Florence Welch is unreal. Like seriously, I wish I could be her. Her voice blows my mind, so please enjoy this song because it is fantastic.

 

 

 

So today has been a weird day. I think my mind is just a jumbled mess due to finals being next week, but I have been doing a lot of thinking today about coincidences. Lets just say a few things that could be called coincidences have happened today. It involves a person. That is all the detail you get. Haha

 

I  don't believe in coincidences. I guess a better way to put it is I believe that things happen for a reason. I also believe that if something continues to keep happen, that you should do something about it. So yeah, I don't think things are just coincidence. I don't think that things continue to happen over and over for no apparent reason at all. I don't really know where I am going with this. I guess what I am trying to figure out right now is what I am going to do about this recurring coincidence that I don't think is a coincidence at all. Do I act on it, or do I leave it up to chance? The only thing about this particular situation is my time window to act on it ends tomorrow afternoon. Talk about pressure! And I'm sure it will consume all my thoughts today, so studying is going to be impossible.

 

As I have tried to decide what to do, I have had to think about what I believe in. So like I said, I believe that everything happens for a reason. I also believe in serendipity. Because of these two things, I have an idea of how I want to handle this situation. It scares the crap out of me, but if I put a little into the situation hopefully something good will come out of it. I guess we will see. I will keep you updated!

 

Happy Monday everyone!

Firmoo

So about two weeks ago I was catching up on some blog reading when I cam across Sparkles and Stilettos post titled "Lennon Inspired". So of course I checked it out, and I am so so glad that I did. What I found were some awesome pictures of Allie sporting some Lennon inspired sunnies. They were magnificent!

 

That wasn't even the best part! As I continued to read, I came to discover that the amazing company Firmoo was offering all first time customers a free pair of glasses! Uh, can you say amazing?! Who would say no to a free pair of glasses. All you had to do was pay for shipping. I would call that quite the deal.

I decided on some Dr. Spencer Reid inspired specs because who doesn't love Reid? I really am so impressed with this company. Not only did I get my glasses in a timely manner, but they really are some good quality glasses. I was very worried at first, because I have extremely bad eyes. When I buy glasses I usually have to have special lenses put in, because my eyes are so bad. The "special" lenses are usually just some kind of ultra thin lens. If I don't get them it usually looks like I am wearing magnifying glasses or something ridiculous. To get the free pair, you basically just have to get the most basic lenses they have. I was really worried that I would get them, and it would look like my eyes were twice the size of my freaking head. That was not the case at all. They were perfect, and the prescription was spot on.

 

Pretty much all I can say is I would definitely recommend Firmoo, and if you aren't satisfied with your glasses you can get a refund, or you can exchange them for a new pair. So try it out here!

 

Alright, that is enough about glasses. It is time for some randomness. Pretty much I am going to be a hermit next week, because it is the week before finals. You guys, I have created an Excel spreadsheet of a study schedule for finals. Let's just say I will be living at the library, and I don't plan on wearing anything put sweatshirts and sweats for a week. I'm not really sure if I hate anything more than finals. Every time they come around I feel like it would be more worth it to just quit school than have to suffer through them. So far I have come out victorious, so let's hope the streak continues.

 

Alright, I need to talk about tv shows for just a moment. First off, what is this sequel to Boy Meets World???? I think I might die. This is the most brilliant thing I have ever heard of! Of course I am way behind on finding out about this, so I am just going to hurry and freak out about it since everyone else already has. Aslkdjaflskjfwelfjaljasdf!!!!

Next is Criminal Minds... I know I didn't do a recap of this past episode, but that is because I could barely focus on it. Not when Matthew Gray Gubler announced this past Wednesday that the episode he directed is next weeks episode! You guys, I am flipping out! Not only is it going to be absolutely fantastic, but there is a big chance they are revealing Reid's mystery girl! I seriously am dying! I have been waiting a freaking month for this. I even rearranged my study schedule so that I could watch it. This is serious business you guys. You WILL be hearing about it.

The last show I will be talking about is Gossip Girl. Pretty much I am just obsessed with it, and I am FINALLY up to date on the episodes. So now I can freak out with the rest of the world that there are only four episodes left. Gah!

 

So I have no concerts to go to this weekend. Like officially there is nothing I am going to. The is the first weekend in a month that I am not going to a concert. It feels weird, and I feel a little empty inside, but I think I needed the break. Now I will be twice as excited to see The North Valley AND Holy Water Buffalo next Saturday. I can't even describe my excitement for this show! Not only will it be the perfect way to close out my crazy week of studying, but both bands are absolutely fantastic! I really am so excited to see Holy Water Buffalo! I have been listening to their music all week.

 

Because I am not attending any concerts, I have decided to go to a wedding instead. I am not really the wedding goer type of gal, but it is nice to go visit with friends you haven't seen in a while and just celebrate something awesome (aka marriage).There is just a little problem. I really dislike wedding receptions. I don't know what it is about receptions, but they really just drive me crazy. I just feel like to much effort goes into impressing all your friends and family, and in the end it just pisses you off and makes you frustrated. I don't get it. I don't get the point of inviting every person you know plus their dog. I know this isn't always the case, but I think we all know when it is. That is why I just want to have a stinking BBQ or something in my backyard. Nothing too fancy, and just having a good time with your closest family and friends. I don't know. It is a confusing subject. I will stop talking about it now. Haha

 

Well I hope everyone is having a great weekend! For those of you with finals in the near future, good luck!

 

p.s- If any of you live in the SLC area I would highly recommend trying Blue Star's egg nog chai if you need a little kick of caffeine. It seriously is heaven in a cup!

College Street Style: RexAnn

I am apologizing for the quality of these photos in advance. I had to use my VERY old little pink digital camera. I seriously have had this thing since like 7th grade. It is not even a camera. But I had to get this done, so everyone meet the wonderful RexAnn.

Name: RexAnn

Major: Nursing

What do you like to wear?

"Boots, sweaters, fun colors, and funky patterns!"

 

Thank you RexAnn for willing to do this even though I had a sucky camera, and because I made you sit outside in the cold while I told you about my crazy weekend! You are a trooper! P.s- I am thinking that Blue Star Chai Lattes should be a weekly tradition! Just saying.

 

I am proud to announce that awkward moments are at a stand still for me! This is such a joyous thing. I will treasure every second of it.

 

So my friend RexAnn (pictured above) has got me hooked on freaking Snap Chat. Who knew taking awful pictures and adding captions to them could be so much fun! I think the main reason I love it is because the majority of my friends don't live in SLC. This is a fun way to see what they are doing, and to see their face.

 

Well that is all for today. Happy Tuesday everyone!





The Weight

For this weeks Music Monday I have decided on a song from one of my all time favorite bands Thrice. To be completely honest, I didn't hear about Thrice until my junior year of high school, but after just one song I was sold. I am pretty sure the first song I ever heard by them was Deadbolt, which for some reason holds a special place in my heart. As soon as I heard it, I pretty much ran home to learn the piano outro.

 

The song I chose for today is The Weight, which is one of my favorite Thrice songs. This is one of those songs that you love because the lyrics are so brilliant. This has just always been a special song to me. It doesn't hold as much importance as it once did, but I still find myself falling in love with lyrics every single time. I am pretty sure I have had multiple Facebook status updates that contain the lyrics to this song. Thrice really is just brilliant. I am so sad that they aren't making music anymore, but I am grateful that I have been able to attend many of their shows and will always be able to enjoy their music.

 

 

 

Take the time to listen to Dustin sing this live. His voice is seriously unreal! Thrice is definitely one of those bands that when you hear them play live you just don't even know what to do with yourself. They are just freaking crazy amazing!

 

Happy Monday



CM Recap: Wheels on the Bus

Alright, so today I should be telling you all about the fantastic things I found on pinterest this week, but I didn't use pinterest this week so I have nothing. Sorry. Instead, I am going to do my Criminal Minds recap that I should have done on Thursday, but it was Thanksgiving so I didn't want to.

 

There are very few things I have to say about this episode. It was a TON better than last weeks episode that is for sure! This whole episode was based around a video game, and the unsubs created a live version of the video game using real freaking people! How insane is that? I thought it was good, but I feel like they could have done a lot more with that idea. It was pretty intense, but there was a lot of slow parts throughout.

 

The only other thing I have to say about this episode is this... Freaking Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide. Yup.

 

I wouldn't say I am disappointed with Criminal Minds, but I still am just freaking out because I don't know who freaking Reid's girlfriend is. I need to know! Like right now. They have dragged this out for to many episodes. They can't have this mystery girl be all, "I love you", and then never hear from her again! What the heck is this? If they don't bring her back into the story soon, I am going to throw something. Probably like a chair, or something big like that. It just needs to happen.

 

So remember how I said that I had no idea what I was going to do this weekend, because there weren't any I had the money to drive and go see? Yeah, well I lied. The North Valley decided to be sneaky and announce on Thanksgiving day that they were playing at the Spedelli's benefit show yesterday. Freaking stoked you guys, but kind of didn't know what to do at the same time. This was definitely the FOURTH show in a row that my friend Emily and I had been to. As in four weekends in a row we have been going to see these guys play. That is a freaking month you guys. That could totally be thought of as creeper status. Heck, that is creeper status! It turned out to be a fun night though! We got to talk to some of the guys after the show, and they are all pretty darn rad. They are pretty much as cool as there music, which is pretty much the coolest thing on the planet. Just saying. Emily and I are hoping that they take a break this week from playing shows, so we don't reach level expert of creepers. That would be FIVE weekends in a row. Especially since in two weeks they are playing two shows. Are we going to both... duh.

 

On a completely random note, we had a mouse. I say had, because we finally caught it after a week of trying. They little thing was sneaky. I don't know how, but it just kept licking all the peanut butter off the traps without getting caught! He was lucky for a while, but then one of them snapped. I was very disappointed. My dad got one of those catch and release traps just for me, but of course it went for the deathly head snapper thing. Oh why little mouse couldn't you have gone for MY trap. I tried to save you, but you decided to go through the death row (aka like 5 deathly head snapper things) and you failed. I am sorry little mouse. RIP.

 

I hope everyone has had a fabulous Thanksgiving break, and a fantastic Sunday. I know I sure have! 

College Street Style: Jenna

I have noticed that just by the two sets of pictures I have taken for this post, you can see just how bipolar Utah's weather is. I honestly just don't understand. Anyways, everyone meet the lovely Jenna.

Name: Jenna

Major: Environmental Studies and Political Science

What do you like to wear?

"I like to wear contrasting colors, leggings, and flannels. All at the same time is preferred. And flats! I am not a big fan of boots."

 

I don't know about you, but I pretty much just died over this outfit. So fantastic. I love the pop of color the scarf gives. Plus, her hair is absolutely fantastic! This outfit just makes me happy. Thanks Jenna!

 

For the first time in three weeks, I am not planning on attending any concerts. It is kind of sad. I feel like it has become a weekend tradition. There are some concerts that I really want to go to this weekend (aka Desert Noises and Joe Brooks), but I just do not have the money OR the gas to attend them. It is quite sad. I don't really know what to do with myself. I am looking forward to having a nice break from school and work this week. I am just planning on hanging out at home, and spending time with my family. I figure I need to just sit and relax as much as I can before finals come up. They are just around the corner, and I am already stressing. I seriously just hate tests. Hopefully I can get through it.

 

The only class I am really worried about is my solar systems class. I swear this class is impossible! I just don't understand it at all. It needs to be done. Bianca and I both need to find smart people in the class, and make them teach us the ways of the universe. We just don't get it, and it sucks.

 

I guess I am also worried about math, but I feel like I don't have to bring up that one. Of course I am worried about math! I freaking hate math, and don't know how I have made it this far without just falling over on the sidewalk and crying. Anyone good at math? I could use all the help I could get.

 

Well I hope everyone has a lovely Tuesday, and has exciting plans for Thanksgiving!

 





From Finner

Whoo! It is Monday, which means it is time for another Music Monday post. Now I promised you that I wouldn't choose any more Grouplove or The North Valley songs for a while, so here is to keeping that promise.

 

This week I am giving Of Monsters and Men a little love, because they are also a favorite of mine. I honestly can't remember the first time I heard them. All I know is that it was sometime this past summer, and they instantly stole my heart. So here is my favorite Of Monsters and Men song at the moment.

 

 

"From Finner" by Of Monsters and Men

 

Remember how I said I was obsessed with names like Finley and Finner recently. Well I blame this song. I just think the collaboration of every one's voices in this band are phenomenal. I just can't stop listening to them. They are the band on your ipod that no matter what you can't skip their songs when they come up on shuffle. They are just awesome. I was actually thinking of driving to Colorado with one of my friends to see them play. They are THAT good. At least I think so. I hope you enjoy.

 

For each song I choose, I am going to try and find a GOOD live version of the song. I just always find a deeper respect for artists when they sound just as good live as they do on a recording.

 

Yesterday I promised pictures, so here are some photos of my life lately via Instagram. Enjoy!

1. Letter from one of my kids at work. This is why I love my job!
2. We had Kim's Cold-blooded Creatures come and give a presentation at work last week. After she is done giving the presentation she lets all the kids (and adults) hold all the animals. No worries, the snake was only like FORTY pounds. No big deal.
3. Cutest little tree frog on the planet!
4. The North Valley... duh
5. STOKED out of my mind for my new concert tee!
6. Mr. Skeleton Head. This is my lucky shirt. I wore it to the concert on Friday. One of the bands had black lights throughout their set. Lets just say my shirt was unreal!
7. Richins siblings going to church. Yeah, I know what you are thinking! We are one attractive bunch. 

Have a marvelous Monday!

My Weekly Pinterst Roundup

light

what to wear
 when i'm a mama

b&w inspiration

boys take notes

Well there is that. These are the things that inspired me this week. I find it crazy that just a photo can inspire you to either create something, or do something amazing. I think that is the only reason I continue to use Pinterest. I find so much inspiration on there. It is quite lovely.

 

I had one of the best weekends I have had in a really long time this past weekend. Everything really was just perfect. It isn't like anything extremely spectacular happened. It was just a good weekend, and nothing went wrong.

 

I was kind of nervous about this weekend mainly because of things that had happened earlier in the week, and because of possibly outcomes I knew could happen. I was kind of stressing out about it the whole week. I knew it wasn't something that I should stress about, so throughout the week I decided that I wasn't going to be upset with anything that happened. I wasn't going to expect anything, and I wasn't going to be upset if things didn't go my way. I know that is why I had such an amazing weekend. I just decided to stay postive no matter what, and because of that everything was great!

 

On Friday I drove down to Provo to go to a concert at Muse Music Cafe. I was super excited because a) I got to see one of my best friends that I haven't seen in forever, and b) I was going to see The North Valley play again (have I mentioned how awesome they are?). From the start I knew it was going to be an amazing night. Remember earlier in the week when I said I accidently added some random guy on Facebook? Yeah, well he played at this concert.... you guys, he is incredible! I seriously was just blown away with how good he was. I am definitely a fan, and plan on going to more shows. He is quite the performer. You can look up his fantastic music here. You can also look him up (Officer Jenny) on Facebook. I would highly recommend this.

 

Next up was Tighty Willis... I can't even describe them. They were also fantastic! The energy these guys had was unreal. They really just set the best mood, and the entire audience was just going crazy and having fun. They have very good music to dance to. I think that is half of why it was so great. Everyone was just dancing, and having an incredible time. It really was just unreal.

 

Last but definitely not least was The North Valley. This was seriously BY FAR the best show I had seen them play. Everyone was just dancing and singing along. It really makes a difference when you know the words to the songs that people are playing. It makes it a million times more enjoyable. They really are just so awesome you guys. Seeing them play once again was the perfect end of a fantastic night. I actually got one of their shirts this time! Whoo!

 

I hope everyone has had an amazing weekend. I definitely have. I will have pictures tomorrow! Yay!

CM Recap: The Fallen

So it's time for another recap of the latest Criminal Minds episode, but first I will share with you my random thoughts for the day.

 

Alright, so season five of Gossip Girl FINALLY came to the library, so now I am back to watching Gossip Girl. I don't really know what it is about this show, but I love it. I know that it is one of the trashiest shows pretty much ever, but it brings me so much joy. I feel like everyone should be able to have a couple trashy tv shows that they enjoy. For me it is Gossip Girl and Pretty Little Liars. Don't judge me. So here is probably my biggest confession. It involves Gossip Girl. Do any of you guys watch it? If you don't you will have no clue what I am even talking about, but for those of you that do... you are probably going to shun me. Here it goes... I freaking want Dan and Blair to be together! I know it is crazy, and I am probably the only girl on the planet that wants this, but I just love them! I can't even explain it. They just need to be together. Even if it is just for a couple episodes. Okay that is a lie, they just need to be together. Alright.. I am so glad I got that out there. Haha

 

On an even more random note, is anyone being sent into a deep depression over how much gas is? Yeah, it can't just be me. I almost started crying as I saw the price reach $60 this morning. As soon as it passed $50 with no sign of stopping, I felt my body start to wilt. That was not a great start to the morning.

 

Here is something that cheered me up. Your welcome (This is seriously the funniest video of my life, and pretty much makes me pee my pants every time I watch it).

 

 

Alright, I think it is time to talk about some Criminal Minds! WARNING: I AM GOING TO BE TALKING ABOUT THE NEW EPISODE OF CRIMINAL MINDS. SO IF YOU HAVEN'T SEEN IT YET, I WOULD SUGGEST YOU DON'T GO ANY FURTHER.

I think that is good. So here are my thoughts... This episode wasn't my favorite. It was so tame! I know that sounds crazy. Since when is setting people on fire, and drowning them in bleach tame? Yeah...

The past couple episodes have been so insanely insane that this one left me feeling a little empty inside. So I will just share with you some of my random thoughts throughout the show. First off, girl singing in the park... holy freaking amazing! I was very impressed!

Next would have to be this line. I kind of died! Haha Oh Reid, how I love you.

Seriously though, why is he so funny? And why is his hair so freaking fantastic? Moving on...

Suddenly, OUT OF NOWHERE a crazy Reid appears... with milk. Alright then.

Really the only other comment I have about this episode is what the country music playing at the end? It was strange.

 

The good thing about this episode is it was a tribute to veterans which I greatly admire. So good job Criminal Minds!

 

That is it for today. I am ready for what I am sure is going to be a crazy weekend. Like seriously, I have been preparing myself for this weekend since like Tuesday. There are just a lot of different scenarios as to how it could go, so it should be interesting. I am sure I will have a story for you by Monday. Get ready!

 

Pics found here.