tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89305815015337890112024-03-12T17:10:51.822-07:00little dailies.alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.comBlogger187125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-54331183868414351282014-03-25T15:10:00.002-07:002014-03-25T15:10:20.825-07:00new blog!Hi friends,<br />
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I created a new blog! It's called A Field Day, and I started it as a way to document my new life here in the Bay Area. I hope you'll take a look and follow along! <a href="http://afielddayblog.blogspot.com/">Click here</a> to check it out.alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-79650719553525786732014-02-25T00:11:00.000-08:002014-02-25T00:11:39.256-08:00glimpses. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Hello, hi, I'm here! I know I need to make my blogging more consistent — every day I have post ideas, but I never take the time to actually sit down and write them out. And I sure miss it. Typing is therapeutic for me, writing helps me clear my head and somehow make sense of the random thoughts and ideas I have skipping around up there. So here I am, not quite sure where to start, but knowing that I want to, and for the sake of my sanity, probably need to. :) </div>
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I'm going to be brutally honest, while I'm loving my life out here in the Bay, for the last few weeks I've been a little scared. Everything has just been so <i>easy — </i>finding housing out here, making friends, it's all just clicked. And I haven't had "easy" in a while. I know you probably think I'm crazy for quitting a job I enjoyed and making a random move to a new place without a new one lined up, and that's fine. But the best way to explain why is because I just needed to, for me. Fresh start, clean slate, clear eyes, full hearts, and all of that. I had a friend out here tell me he thinks I'm brave for making such a big leap, and whether it's bravery or not, it feels good to know that I've done something for myself, something that maybe did take <i>some</i> courage. </div>
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But back to being scared. I've had a job since I was 16. And all of a sudden, not having one has been like a big shock to my system. I knew I'd enjoy the break for a while, but trust me, binging on Netflix gets old quickly {although now I do have some great TV and movie recommendations, so get at me for those!}. I've been frustrated that, for the last month or so, a job hasn't been on the horizon. I've been frustrated that, after making my resumé the best I think it can be, no one has been willing to give me a chance. I'm sure I don't need to tell you that rejection sucks. This past week I've been doing a lot of thinking, and I think I came up with the reason why I feel like I keep getting put into the "reject" pile. Since I decided to make the move out here, everything fell into place for me, like I said. My life has been pretty easy. And I fell into this rut and figured that things would continue that way, and somehow a job would fall into my lap. </div>
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Well, it hasn't. </div>
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And it's left me feeling a little angry with myself. So I finally decided this weekend to buckle down and make being employed a priority. Living off of savings only lasts for so long, and just assuming that my life is going to continue to be easy is pretty stupid.</div>
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This brings me to the title of this post, "glimpses." I've really been focusing on those today. I'm trying to notice moments that remind me that, even though I'm feeling a little frustrated, I'm still loved, I'm still cared for. I babysit a few times a week for a family here with two little boys, and today as I was putting the youngest one down for a nap, he looked me right in the eyes and said, "hey, I like you." Glimpse. I got an interview today for a job I applied for that I never thought I'd hear back from. Glimpse. I spent time getting to know some new people tonight, and they laughed at my corny jokes. And for the record, they were genuine laughs, not those pity ones. ;) Another glimpse.</div>
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I firmly believe that everyone has their own personal relationship with God, and we all communicate with him in different ways. I speak to him when I pray, and he responds to me in these glimpses. It's like he's saying, "Hey. I've got your back. You do your part, and I'll do mine to remind you that I think you're awesome and capable and worth it." </div>
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I'm not sure what the point of this post is, or whether it makes sense to anyone else, but I just needed to write somewhere that I'm recognizing these glimpses, and that I'm learning very quickly that when we go through a stage where life is easy, it doesn't mean we can kick back. I'm sure most of you already know this, but it's a lesson I'm in the process of piecing together. </div>
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So, with this doozy of a post I say, thanks for reading and trying to make sense of what comes out of my head, into the keyboard, and onto this screen. It's good to make this a regular thing again. I'm off to prepare for an interview! :)<br />
<br />alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-82028711790678430982014-02-13T11:56:00.000-08:002014-02-13T12:03:38.528-08:00galentine's day.I promise I've got some actual posts with some actual substance coming soon {this weekend! I promise!}, but since I've been binge-watching "Parks and Rec" over the last week, I think it's appropriate to wish all my female friends a happy Galentine's Day today. What is Galentine's Day?<br />
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I've got some amazing women in my life. Whether they're friends, family, or mentors, I'm grateful to all of them for being incredible influences on me. I think it's important to surround yourself with bright, happy, and successful women, and somehow I've gotten lucky and have been able to surround myself with the best of the best. </div>
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So have a great day, and I hope you take some time to...</div>
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Also, I just discovered that you can put gifs on a blog, so I'm apologizing in advance.<br />
<br />alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-50728980077805626632014-01-10T16:39:00.002-08:002014-01-10T16:39:25.234-08:00letting out my inner martha.So I'm moving into a house! I've mentioned that, right? It's a little exciting. While I've been living at home the past week, I've been planning how i want to decorate my room. It's a pretty daunting task! This will be the first place I've lived in that won't be furnished, so I'm going to have to be a grownup and buy furniture {!!}. Bless the Ikea that is five minutes from my new place, I know I'll be living there.<br />
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I've been thinking of going for a white and gold theme. I love white and I love gold, and I think those colors will look great all year round. Here are a few ideas that have been inspiring me lately {all images via <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/alexaj24/">Pinterest</a>}:<br />
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I'm excited to get this place all up and decorated!<br />
<br />alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-53395920529278951242014-01-04T21:06:00.002-08:002014-01-04T21:06:24.075-08:00a series of lasts.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Today was my last full day in Provo, so I thought it would be fun to take my overly-packed car and drive around, just to see a few of my favorite spots one more time. You know, "this is that place I had my car repaired after my accident." "This is where I ate dinner on that really awkward date." "This is were I had that great conversation with an old friend." "This is where I had my first job." But I also realized that today was a series of lasts. This is the last time I'll eat at this place, this is my last day of work, this is the last time I'll see these people. And it's really sad! I never thought I'd say it, but Provo really was my home for the last few years. It's where my life has been, where my people have been, where many of the most important things in my life have been.</div>
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This series of lasts had my heart breaking a little bit as I drove down the familiar University Avenue, and as I crossed over Bulldog and State Street. "Hey! That's the DI where I bought WAY too many bad 80s clothes and ugly Christmas sweaters." I know I've complained about this place a lot, as many college students do, and I know that leaving is the right thing for me, but it's still tough to say goodbye. As a big book nerd, I love chapters {true fact: I once wrote an English essay on the symbolism and significance of chapters}. I love the plot twists, the cliff hangers, the changes that the end of each chapter brings. I don't know if my Provo/BYU chapter ends on a cliffhanger. I think it ends on a good note. It was a chapter that had some ups and downs, a few big plot twists, and some changes, but I feel like it's ending with everything tied together. No loose ends. Sometimes those aren't the most exciting chapters, but for me it was definitely one that caused me to learn a lot. I mean <i>a lot</i>. I went from an immature, unexperienced 18 year old to a somewhat {hopefully} more mature, somewhat more experienced 24 year old, and for me, that's enough. If I had to title this chapter, I think I would call it "Holy Ground." {NOT to be confused with the Taylor Swift song, that phrase has been around much longer than she has}. It really was for me.<br />
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As I was thinking about all these "lasts," I realized that, on that highway ahead of me, I'll have some "firsts." One of my favorite things about babies is watching them experience "firsts." A first step, a first smile, a first laugh. I think we forget that as we grow older, we still have those. And that's the one thing that's really keeping me from breaking down with this move. Along with these "lasts," I have some "firsts" to look forward to. My first day at my new job out there, first time meeting new people, etc. And that's something exciting to look forward to. If I have to name this new chapter, I think I'll steal my sister's word for the year and call it "Onward."<br />
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So this whole thing is a little scary, and a lot exciting. As an old chapter closed today, a new one opens tomorrow, and I can't wait to see the plot twists that it holds for me.<br />
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As always, thanks for reading.<br />
<br />alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-81643235652481210032014-01-01T19:43:00.001-08:002014-01-01T19:43:46.986-08:00trust.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So, I'm moving to California in 4 days. 4 days! I'm at that point where I'm freaking out just a little, but in a good way. It's more of an excited freaking out instead of a nervous one. To be honest, I haven't been really nervous about this move, which I take as a good sign. Ever since I made the decision to go, I've felt very peaceful. I'm even pretty proud of my packing skills, I've thrown out everything I don't use anymore, and let me tell you that getting rid of junk is one of the best feelings in the world.</div>
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Last year, at the start of 2013, I chose a word that I wanted to focus on. That word was "calm." I wanted to have more of it, be more of it, and recognize more of it. And I'm happy to say that, while I wasn't perfect with it, I think I was pretty successful. Whenever I'd have some sort of freak-out, I tried my darndest to focus and relax. And you know what? It works. </div>
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This year, for 2014, my new word is <span style="font-size: large;">"trust."</span> I'm going to be completely honest when I say that 2013 gave me quite a bruising in the relationships area, both in dating and friendships. I know everyone goes through things like that, but for some reason in 2013 I lost a lot of confidence in people, and because of that, I lost confidence in myself. I noticed that I became very distrustful of people, because past experiences convinced me that everyone was going to let me down. It was rough. </div>
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But now that it's 2014 {happy New Year, by the way!}, my goal is to really trust others, to lose the pessimism I was holding onto. Not everyone wants me to fail, not everyone wants to hurt me. I just need to find those people. :) And most importantly, I need to trust myself. I'm a little terrified about new jobs and new experiences when I move, and I'm nervous that I'm not going to trust that I can do hard things. But I need to. I need to trust that I'm capable of doing amazing things, just like we all are. I need to trust that other people want to help me, and I need to trust that God is on my side. </div>
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So here's to you, 2014. You good looking year, you! I have a feeling that you're going to rock. While 2013 does hold some special memories, I'm glad that it's over. And I'm excited to see what's in store for all of us this year. What are some of your goals? I'd love to hear them!</div>
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Read about my 2013 word <a href="http://littledailies.blogspot.com/2013/01/oh-my-word.html">here</a>. </div>
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alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-67892317844358167612013-12-30T15:03:00.000-08:002013-12-30T15:03:13.474-08:00in review: 2013. Oh man. When it comes to New Years I'm the sappiest of the saps. I might as well have the word "nostalgic" written across my forehead because, during the week between Christmas and New Years, I tend to do a lot of reminiscing. I reflect on the good stuff, the hard stuff, the things I did well, the things I can improve on in the next year, etc. But a whole post about that is coming tomorrow. Today is all about happy memories!<br />
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So without further ado, and before I burst into tears about another year ending, here are my top ten moments of 2013:<br />
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10. <span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://littledailies.blogspot.com/2013/02/colorado-and-how-im-going-to-live-there.html">Visiting Denver</a> and Breckenridge, Colorado</span>. What a beautiful state! Denver pretty much captured my heart in a way only a few cities have. And I spent the trip with the best people, so, bonus.</div>
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9. <a href="http://littledailies.blogspot.com/2013/03/a-little-birthday-weekend.html"><span style="font-size: x-large;">My birthday weekend</span></a> was superb. You only have one golden birthday in your life, so I decided to go all out on mine. Even if that meant sending my roommate to the hospital. </div>
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8. <span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://littledailies.blogspot.com/2013/04/the-weekend-i-ate-everything.html">General Conference weekend with my family</a></span>. In April we all got together to take Devin mission shopping and attend General Conference. It was one of the last times we'd all be together for two years, and it was just a good, good weekend. </div>
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7. <a href="http://littledailies.blogspot.com/2013/07/swooning.html"><span style="font-size: x-large;">John FA-REAKING Mayer</span></a>. This had been my dreamiest dream, to see him in concert, in my favorite place in the world {who knew that 5 months from then I'd be moving there?}.</div>
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6. <a href="http://littledailies.blogspot.com/2013/10/a-cabin-in-woods.html"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Going cabining</span></a>. I love cabins, and I love the Hansens' cabin. S'mores, footie pajamas, and gorgeous nature walks. It was a good weekend.</div>
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5. <a href="http://littledailies.blogspot.com/2013/10/lets-go-to-mall-and-happy-halloween.html"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Giving Robin Sparkles</span> a run for her money</a>. This was probably the most serious I'd ever been about having an epic Halloween costume, and I think it paid off. </div>
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4. <span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://littledailies.blogspot.com/2013/11/i-love-my-siblings-but-i-like-being.html">San Francisco</a></span>. Guys, two weeks and <i>I'll be living there!!!!! </i>I can never get enough of this city. </div>
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3. <span style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://littledailies.blogspot.com/2013/08/a-weekend-in-outdoors.html">A weekend outside</a></span>. Hiking Timp was one of the most physically challenging things I've ever done, but the payoff was so worth it. Will I hike it again? No. </div>
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2. <a href="http://littledailies.blogspot.com/2013/12/christmas-is-over.html"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Christmas with my family</span></a>. Maybe I'm still feeling the post-Christmas blues, but last week was a good one. </div>
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1. <a href="http://littledailies.blogspot.com/2013/06/the-dynamic-quad.html"><span style="font-size: x-large;">Saying "sayonara" to Elder Justesen</span></a>. That was a hard day! But to see how he's changed and grown up have been worth it. </div>
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Thanks for the memories, 2013.</div>
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See 2012 in review<a href="http://littledailies.blogspot.com/2012/12/in-review.html"> here</a>. </div>
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alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-53707461721133098162013-12-27T20:50:00.000-08:002013-12-27T20:50:23.123-08:00christmas is over.It's amazing how fast it came and went, isn't it? But now it's the 27th, the radio stations have stopped playing "Jingle Bells" and "Silent Night," and life is just back to normal. There are still a few trees up, a few lights still twinkling on some houses, some leftover snow. Today I took the decorations off of my baby white Christmas tree, feeling a little bit sad. There's this sort of magic that only comes with Christmas, and once it's over, that magic dies, too. At least until next year.<br />
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I had a beautiful Christmas, did you? On Christmas Eve we were able to Skype with Devin in Tokyo. It was so much fun to hear his voice and see his face! We Skyped using an Xbox, so we could watch on a big screen TV. Isn't technology great? I'm grateful for big brothers who know how to do that kind of thing, because I'm clueless. Look how happy Elder J. looks! He spoke some Japanese for us and man. What a crazy language.<br />
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My parents came to Utah this Christmas, so on Christmas Eve we stayed with them at a hotel. I don't know if I've ever woken up and opened gifts in a hotel room on Christmas morning before. It was a little different! The gifts were great {I got a red KitchenAid and it's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen in my life and thanks Mom and Dad!}, but it was just fun to be with my family.</div>
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We ate a Christmas lunch at the Grand America hotel, and holy smokes. Ham and turkey and roast and 7 kinds of potatoes and 20 desserts and the best lemonade I've ever had. If you ever find yourself in Salt Lake City on Christmas, head over there. Seriously, one of the best meals I've ever had. I wish I had pictures of the little desserts, they were so pretty! </div>
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Then we saw the requisite Christmas movie. I picked "Saving Mr. Banks," and it was so good. I could sit and talk about it for hours, but go see it and then we'll chat. You'll come out the theater with some serious feels. "Mary Poppins" has always been my favorite Disney movie, so to see how it came to be was wonderful. And after this movie I'll watch it with a completely different perspective. To Mr. Disney!</div>
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That was our Christmas in a nutshell. Quiet, delicious, with plenty of family time. I hope yours was just as wonderful.</div>
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Let's have a great 2014, shall we? While 2013 was a good year, I went through some tough things. I'll be honest, about 75% of this year was HARD. But I've been determined to make 2014 something amazing. I hope you're with me on that! I've got some fun things planned. Now go listen to that Carpenter's Christmas album one last time before you put it away, okay?</div>
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alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-4449294627931540102013-12-23T16:16:00.000-08:002013-12-23T16:16:19.023-08:00graduation.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Apparently you're not a Justesen unless you're dressed for a funeral at all times.</div>
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Merry Christmas Eve eve! This weekend my little sister Whitney graduated from BYU Idaho. How in the world is she old enough to do that? It was fun to drive up to Idaho and spend some time with my family as we celebrated her huge accomplishment. Whitney is a talented photographer {you can see her work and book her <a href="http://www.whitneyjustesen.com/">here</a>}, and for her final project she did a piece about the seasons. And they were BEE-AUTIFUL. She had a different model represent each season. My favorite was her Fall segment. Her model had this flaming red hair, and it fit in so well with the autumn-colored leaves. Gah. I wish I was that talented.<br />
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Isn't she cute?</div>
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I wish my photos were better quality {horrible lighting will do that to you}, but I asked Whit if she'd send me the actual photos she used so I can post them here. </div>
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Congratulations, Whitster! We sure are proud. </div>
<br />alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-65620142880408164622013-12-21T20:30:00.003-08:002013-12-21T20:30:51.593-08:00palo alto.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Drumroll please.........<br />
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So my big news is that in two weeks, I'm moving to Palo Alto, California! It's funny, that's actually the place I was born in, and for some reason it seems a little bit ironic that I'm going back. But it just feels right, you know?<br />
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For a long time I was terrified of leaving Provo, especially of leaving Provo with that one terrifying word attached to me...<i>single</i>. I honestly never thought I'd see that happen. I fought leaving as long as I could, just to see if maybe someone would come along and erase that word from my mental list of my self-perceived flaws. And while I've dated some incredible guys {and some not-so-incredible, as one does}, it became clear to me that maybe he isn't in Provo. Maybe he is somewhere else. And after some time, I came to accept that idea and be okay with it. Maybe I wouldn't have that "fairytale" BYU wedding that you always hear about growing up, the one that I was so sure would happen for me when I entered Helaman Halls six years ago.<br />
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And you know what? It's<i> fine</i>. I'm going to be okay. And if you made the leap like I'm about to, you'll be just fine, too.<br />
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I've learned that when we're doing what feels right to us, things generally fall into place. I decided a month or so ago that the Bay Area is where I want to be, and everything seemed to take care of itself after that. I found a great house with some great girls, my contract here sold, I've got some potential jobs lined up. For the last year or so I'd been fighting this feeling that NOTHING was working in my favor, so it was so refreshing to see things happen the way I needed them to.<br />
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Tonight I went through some things I've saved over my years at BYU and in Provo, and they brought a smile to my face and a few tears to my eyes. Yes, it's been hard, but this chapter of my life has been <i>amazing</i>. I've met some of the best people I know, I gained an invaluable education, I've grown up. Hours and hours of studying for finals, road trips, late night Slurpee runs, all of those memories will be carefully tucked away in a safe corner of my brain, and I'm sure will influence the next part of my life.<br />
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So here's to new adventures, in a new place, with a new job, and with new people. And most importantly, here's to warmer weather, am I right?<br />
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So folks, I'll try to keep up regular posts here but with Christmas and moving it might be a little tough. But thanks for reading! The comments I get mean the world to me. I always hope that this little space might help someone who feels like no one understands them or gets how they feel, or someone who needs a bit of a laugh. I'll be here for you as much as I can.<br />
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Have a very merry, safe, beautiful Christmas!<br />
<br />alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-83502754654088792342013-12-13T20:54:00.002-08:002013-12-13T20:54:38.083-08:00my views at christmastime. How is it less than two weeks until Christmas? You know that scene in "The Grinch" where all the Whos are shopping in Whoville, and a voice comes on the loudspeaker letting them know there are only 14 hours until Christmas, and all the little Whos start freaking out? That's how I feel. Not because I haven't gotten shopping done, but because I love Christmas, and with each day we get one day closer to it being here, and one day closer to the whole season being over. It's a little bittersweet.<br />
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So I've been doing all that I can to take advantage of this Christmas season. Seeing the lights, watching the movies, trimming the tree, the whole shebang. I don't want December 26 to leave me feeling any regrets. So here are a few of the ways I've been celebrating. What have you been doing?<br />
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If Christmas lights could stay up all year, I'd be one happy camper. They just make everything look so much prettier! And those icicles outside my window are about as tall as me. They're beautifully terrifying. Also, how do you like my first Christmas tree? Next year's will be real, I promise. The last photo is just for kicks, my coworker knows how much I dislike Miley.<br />
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I hope you all are having a wonderful holiday season, wherever you are! And I'm hoping you don't have to deal with snow.<br />
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Stay tuned, next week I've got some REALLY exciting news!<br />
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Phew. I feel like this post was all one giant sentence, but I got caught up typing and knew I just needed to say <i>something </i>on this blog.<br />
<br />alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-51811966896619585242013-12-06T16:08:00.001-08:002013-12-06T16:08:53.080-08:00if i could make you a mixed cd round 2.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Doesn't this picture give you the warm Christmas fuzzies? I wish I could claim that this was my house but sadly...no. </div>
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As I do all playlists, I took the task of coming up with this year's Christmas playlist very seriously. People seemed to like the one I made <a href="http://littledailies.blogspot.com/2012/12/if-i-could-make-you-mixed-cd.html">last year</a>, so I decided to make a newer version of some holiday favorites. I hope you enjoy!</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1.</span> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UurUdVlKT-0">Very Merry Christmas</a> - Dave Barnes</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2.</span> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5aw2yuYAKoE">Christmas {Baby Please Come Home}</a> - Michael Bublé</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3.</span> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fsVyo7WgTc8">O Holy Night</a> - Beta Radio</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">4.</span> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fTksWqwOiQ">Angels We Have Heard on High</a> - Sufjan Stevens</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">5.</span> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UDYOdczNW5E">Jingle Bells</a> - Sugar and the Hi-Lows</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">6.</span> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C9MzELVM1lU">Marshmallow World</a> - Emmy the Great and Tim Wheeler</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">7.</span> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rahymu_7vIg">We Need a Little Christmas</a> - AgesandAges</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">8.</span> Silent Night - Joshua Hyslop</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">9.</span> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_jH0vMcIKg">Sleigh Ride</a> - Fun.</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">10.</span> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qReziqBwEr4">Wonderful Christmastime</a> - The Shins</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">11.</span> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YhmpUM4gXQM">All My Bells Are Ringing</a> - Lenka</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">12.</span> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V6zyJXcz8R4">Cold December Night</a> - Michael Bublé</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">13.</span> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4p5NHHKJe0g">Meet Me at the Mistletoe</a> - Dave Barnes</div>
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Now get to decorating that tree, dang it.</div>
<br />alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-82575125698922013492013-12-03T20:09:00.001-08:002013-12-03T20:09:06.777-08:00iris.I have two bad day movies. Those movies you pop in when life seems like it's falling down your shoulders, when a tidal wave of <i>crap</i> just seems to keep knocking you down. You know those days, yeah? Today we had our first big snowstorm. The kind where your car gets stuck in a parking spot, one of your windshield wipers breaks, and you spill your dinner and lose just one brand-new earring. <i>Tidal wave</i>, folks.<br />
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So I settled in with my two go-to movies, "You've Got Mail" {duh} and "The Holiday." Now if I could, I'd probably take out the Cameron Diaz story, because I relate fully and completely to Iris. She and Kathleen Kelly are my people. The hard workers who seem to be a little bit overlooked. Sometimes I feel like that, especially lately. You know when you feel like maybe you're not reaching your full potential? That's me right now. It's requiring me to make some changes, which is terrifying. But if Iris and Kathleen can do it, so can I.<br />
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I've learned recently that I need to surround myself with people who make me feel good about myself, which is something I haven't been doing so much lately. I have great friends, I really do, but some of them make me leave feeling bad about myself. Things are said or done, all in the name of a "joke," that make me feel worthless. I know this and I know how awful it makes me feel, but I don't do anything about it. Why? Maybe I'm being too vague so this doesn't make sense to you. I guess what I'm trying to say is that for the last few months, my confidence level has been pretty low. Maybe at an all-time low, I'm not too sure. <br />
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Anyway, I guess what I'm trying to say is that it's time for me to make changes. New place, new people, new confidence level. I'm ready to be pushed. I'm ready to be completely happy again.<br />
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Anyway, these two clips really stood out to me. Preach, Iris and Joe.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/iUPk5eKsGvs" width="560"></iframe>
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/o7eMH8QoMZk" width="560"></iframe>
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{Please pardon the language. You know Patricia. :) }<br />
<br />alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-31037000688340358932013-11-27T14:30:00.000-08:002013-11-27T14:35:01.672-08:00parade > turkey.In my humble opinion, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is the greatest part of Thanksgiving. Every year, without fail, I park myself in front of the TV, sleepy-eyed and still in PJs, and watch as Snoopy, Kermit, Mickey, and many other characters make their way down Central Park West. There's something nostalgic about it, something sort of magical. It's like the holidays are officially being ushered in. And then ohmygosh when Santa Claus closes out the whole thing. When I was a little girl I wouldn't allow anyone to turn off the TV or change the channel to football until I saw Santa. And when I say "little girl" I mean that I still do this every year.<br />
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I heard on the news that, with this huge storm on the East Coast, the balloons might not happen tomorrow. Please bless that this isn't true.<br />
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The parade has been around for almost 90 years, and I found some vintage photos of the balloons from the 1920s-1940s. Amazing how much they've changed, right? and yet the excitement is still just as strong.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgam4Xpfq3dtzYfgpXeOxKj6vmc7ORX-Zmid5KQ15Er3zuueqFs6GXI2ELpZgli5GjHmIIjD-zvjXFsn7qLzGbQlLze0abUQe89knw6qkLQXa5mN0HX6qR2ZbAX-7x1LtIs3tI-6mNclcc/s1600/Macy's+Day+Parade-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgam4Xpfq3dtzYfgpXeOxKj6vmc7ORX-Zmid5KQ15Er3zuueqFs6GXI2ELpZgli5GjHmIIjD-zvjXFsn7qLzGbQlLze0abUQe89knw6qkLQXa5mN0HX6qR2ZbAX-7x1LtIs3tI-6mNclcc/s640/Macy's+Day+Parade-5.jpg" width="540" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvaqRzmmNt1LXkokemxjemEgI9hfBCYMYjbT8Bg5IIMBYtJH8WEi0lfzX-0CEIfJFEAQs_FhWAc7zym26rZftFe2L-fbNZWhwOYyh_st08GoO6lFMwjWegPmbxfKjukx9LcdJZME2IPYY/s1600/superman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvaqRzmmNt1LXkokemxjemEgI9hfBCYMYjbT8Bg5IIMBYtJH8WEi0lfzX-0CEIfJFEAQs_FhWAc7zym26rZftFe2L-fbNZWhwOYyh_st08GoO6lFMwjWegPmbxfKjukx9LcdJZME2IPYY/s640/superman.jpg" width="572" /></a></div>
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And then the big moment...when Christmas officially begins:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij81a0KtlcgewPNPjsXszVHwmOZS5-pqv9_vqRdVESoJJ_JNmLG7f6_5xyEjbqDdVCZZ1vYVkb7A7_sWQO-fe5PUqRXGTv_gu0jTJvlnTpjoP3FFxVWEbMBoL5Zh9D89ZFLOypmUJ9O5I/s1600/item0.rendition.slideshowWideHorizontal.1925-macys-thanksgiving-day-parade.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEij81a0KtlcgewPNPjsXszVHwmOZS5-pqv9_vqRdVESoJJ_JNmLG7f6_5xyEjbqDdVCZZ1vYVkb7A7_sWQO-fe5PUqRXGTv_gu0jTJvlnTpjoP3FFxVWEbMBoL5Zh9D89ZFLOypmUJ9O5I/s640/item0.rendition.slideshowWideHorizontal.1925-macys-thanksgiving-day-parade.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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My reaction tends to be something along the lines of this:<br />
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I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving and holiday season. There's quite a bit to be thankful for, huh?</div>
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alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-25953152402799763292013-11-19T11:44:00.003-08:002013-11-19T11:44:55.431-08:00the in between.You know that place between Fall and Winter? The place where Fall is giving us her last few breaths, and Winter is lightly tapping at the door, her impatience growing with each tap? That's how today feels. It's that transition period, where Fall is still clinging on as hard as she can, and Winter will soon give up her tapping and eventually pound that door down with full force. And I can feel it. I went for a run this morning, crunching through piles of leaves that were just waiting to be covered in snow. They're brown and dead now, their purpose gone. The sky was dark, trying to decide between rain or snow, the air had a bit more chill to it. And it left me feeling like it's transition time.<br />
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So with that, we say goodbye to Fall. For me it has been a season of improvement. I've made changes, and have some changes in the works. And while I'm not ready for the freezing cold, I'm ready for winter. I'm excited for all the family time I'll get in the next couple of months, and to move forward with some big projects. </div>
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So thank your, Fall. Here are a few photos of my favorite things from this season.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik0OoZg-np-CC9ADCwFVPNkKZdObngwaWx85xNt2EMTadn-V9olqm6fWmFCqrWwD_fWpma6aKxpS0gCMD-zt1kCxgLcklxI1jkN_sYJFvGT0-dkqTccCo-tKpCyblMLO_xOHHVx2bgz2o/s1600/IMG_0424.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik0OoZg-np-CC9ADCwFVPNkKZdObngwaWx85xNt2EMTadn-V9olqm6fWmFCqrWwD_fWpma6aKxpS0gCMD-zt1kCxgLcklxI1jkN_sYJFvGT0-dkqTccCo-tKpCyblMLO_xOHHVx2bgz2o/s640/IMG_0424.JPG" width="640" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcMfLlM6S6xl4XyEHMtY5j9nXCZlIn7bWqMrTDS4G4JaEldPplW53jw5HbJkbVPcNEW_HMWiq2KcKdOlM6ei8EdK8h7c3og2awv_3fHx59t-ONv3dkdM9y3eQ2HROafnuDvUTbHa1u3CQ/s1600/IMG_0420.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcMfLlM6S6xl4XyEHMtY5j9nXCZlIn7bWqMrTDS4G4JaEldPplW53jw5HbJkbVPcNEW_HMWiq2KcKdOlM6ei8EdK8h7c3og2awv_3fHx59t-ONv3dkdM9y3eQ2HROafnuDvUTbHa1u3CQ/s640/IMG_0420.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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And of course, the best line to describe the season that exists, ever.</div>
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alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-31434467083006260052013-11-18T19:46:00.000-08:002013-11-18T19:46:29.903-08:00this is what happens when i spend too much time on the internet.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnQ-BvHOD0vXTg5getEpR1YV0Wn-yMbpzkyCwKSzrYaPVoi-w-9jsWuGA8GyrXl1g1GwFht7jfLoxD4g0DNEJER5tAuGBPoPTLXDlLRs25fT-kWdXuLUcPl4z707VLU-HPXPevw3uA2f0/s1600/christmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="632" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnQ-BvHOD0vXTg5getEpR1YV0Wn-yMbpzkyCwKSzrYaPVoi-w-9jsWuGA8GyrXl1g1GwFht7jfLoxD4g0DNEJER5tAuGBPoPTLXDlLRs25fT-kWdXuLUcPl4z707VLU-HPXPevw3uA2f0/s640/christmas.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Okay Target, you and I have a problem. Because I want ALL the Christmas decorations. If I had my way, my Christmas would be plaid, furry, and full of critters. I love love love Christmas decorations, especially trees. In fact, I think I'm going to do a fun little Christmas tree-related thing on this here blog in December. I can't wait to share it! Here's hoping your Monday is great.</div>
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alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-75167563716829752032013-11-13T19:44:00.000-08:002013-11-13T19:44:27.918-08:00i love my siblings, but i like being the only kid.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBAtaxVHiO9Iojiit_5NPM4mXdSxhhNYZn2RnrSMbK2eXbfld2LkpfpVaD4il4Wb6m2qft1R3pPER4_lmN8SLDMZBGHd8wMLeK4e95_OMKFontvPQRjidVMucxN-jyo-sTOeAbdSFShEE/s1600/photo+4+(17).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBAtaxVHiO9Iojiit_5NPM4mXdSxhhNYZn2RnrSMbK2eXbfld2LkpfpVaD4il4Wb6m2qft1R3pPER4_lmN8SLDMZBGHd8wMLeK4e95_OMKFontvPQRjidVMucxN-jyo-sTOeAbdSFShEE/s640/photo+4+(17).jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Have I told you how much I love San Francisco? It's the city that makes me feel most at home. I got to spend the day there doing a little bit of shopping with my parents when I went home last weekend. And San Francisco at Christmas OHMYGOSH!!!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQbl34xNtILbpUMrDl8IkKQu_aTnseZFlIKV3BjUTzF5EtFdBA33Ukj-N5CiuLL7U324OqTiY2llc9BuAjRW73KNV20v-K6tN4la4LvECfMLJUrSDq7Pxxu7Kb2rn6QpKKBaec9yvkb8/s1600/photo+5+%252811%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuQbl34xNtILbpUMrDl8IkKQu_aTnseZFlIKV3BjUTzF5EtFdBA33Ukj-N5CiuLL7U324OqTiY2llc9BuAjRW73KNV20v-K6tN4la4LvECfMLJUrSDq7Pxxu7Kb2rn6QpKKBaec9yvkb8/s640/photo+5+%252811%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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We happened to be at Union Square the day they put up the Christmas tree, and it was magical, I tell ya. And with 70 degrees in the middle of November? I'll take it. I don't know what else to say about this place except that it just feels familiar. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQk20u-tkNA5M5Wbpi7Gux3aaszWXJxnefx7urcBPOKbSI3g1qu-9rYfs7RjVVMdTMlhIqodWQo6SRmNbC7A12edRVCNVrMiLpSUWF35X7wBlDKtwW3Klfp9VwwcUlpWMHOJDecC5zeB8/s1600/photo+1+%252817%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQk20u-tkNA5M5Wbpi7Gux3aaszWXJxnefx7urcBPOKbSI3g1qu-9rYfs7RjVVMdTMlhIqodWQo6SRmNbC7A12edRVCNVrMiLpSUWF35X7wBlDKtwW3Klfp9VwwcUlpWMHOJDecC5zeB8/s640/photo+1+%252817%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdR1HWdg-16aSFxRRzSQDbxgqgbMB6qA0R5C2dfAiYISAf9NPhT0Bzwh2EXRe37kIEDBphpSspD4eDBIhf6dTpO8SUij9ya0C-CoRbjf69wCTpHBFs-VH4ssCb72U_EDVYzZLGYT0FtI/s1600/photo+2+%252817%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdR1HWdg-16aSFxRRzSQDbxgqgbMB6qA0R5C2dfAiYISAf9NPhT0Bzwh2EXRe37kIEDBphpSspD4eDBIhf6dTpO8SUij9ya0C-CoRbjf69wCTpHBFs-VH4ssCb72U_EDVYzZLGYT0FtI/s640/photo+2+%252817%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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I was the only kid at home all weekend, and I don't know if that's ever happened to me before. But it was very...quiet. I come from a group of talkers, there is always someone telling a story or a joke. But with just three of us and the cat, it's calm. </div>
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We did some {a lot} of shopping, and I am the proud new owner of a pair of green Hunter boots. !!!!! We ate some great food, lots of Ghirardelli chocolate, saw "Gravity," which is the most stressful movie I've ever seen, and went for Autumn drives. While it's pretty much all dead here in Utah now, California is right in the middle of that yellow and red, crunchy, breezy Fall. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip2cEaOR16VmH_XQF5OWlZHukmqq7CpYOllEeyW1djlGVOEoAuc2T3B_8ymy-15W7NqFwVR5Nq9dYwmLL02ymUswGwggbIwQRPurdw_Gu-aGHQeC0RrAjjCSPTYb7fYfMh90Ogmh0haTM/s1600/photo+1+%252818%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEip2cEaOR16VmH_XQF5OWlZHukmqq7CpYOllEeyW1djlGVOEoAuc2T3B_8ymy-15W7NqFwVR5Nq9dYwmLL02ymUswGwggbIwQRPurdw_Gu-aGHQeC0RrAjjCSPTYb7fYfMh90Ogmh0haTM/s640/photo+1+%252818%2529.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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My dad also taught me how to drive a manual car. I know, I'm 24 and should know that by now. But I didn't and it's okay and now I know. Sort of. That clutch and me, man, we have a hard time getting along. But it's fine. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxC6Y7jZH8Bl8PdWfo_EaLtrebe9IvpkraDLQ_s2v8dg-Prt-rFxT7FAD_Z4tRgA6HakulihE55Zd-voqr06I8lCJGqZXW3ct_2e98WGlt8nodRdJ_Hg3eEsA2e-qrS6vJ1Fq5CNACfMA/s1600/photo+4+%252816%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxC6Y7jZH8Bl8PdWfo_EaLtrebe9IvpkraDLQ_s2v8dg-Prt-rFxT7FAD_Z4tRgA6HakulihE55Zd-voqr06I8lCJGqZXW3ct_2e98WGlt8nodRdJ_Hg3eEsA2e-qrS6vJ1Fq5CNACfMA/s640/photo+4+%252816%2529.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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All in all, a good, much-needed weekend. Thanks for having me, Mom and Dad! And the cat. </div>
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alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-12954675569585244432013-11-12T21:04:00.001-08:002013-11-12T21:04:47.875-08:00some lessons.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBGqzXiH0IOj1yqI9jPOVIK-uKfsdwY1uryuUzGjorek8v-g7_5RszV9L3z3AV1AwM9CwMQcU1h5eZIKjaVksbLT5vQeHsx6U64-YmiRQGmcHVubXTzYLFk4mEEhhqmfI9RkN0MmMAj4E/s1600/970296_581586568542579_1369682269_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBGqzXiH0IOj1yqI9jPOVIK-uKfsdwY1uryuUzGjorek8v-g7_5RszV9L3z3AV1AwM9CwMQcU1h5eZIKjaVksbLT5vQeHsx6U64-YmiRQGmcHVubXTzYLFk4mEEhhqmfI9RkN0MmMAj4E/s640/970296_581586568542579_1369682269_n.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Have you ever had something hit you so hard that it gave you a stomach ache, but the good kind? Not in the literal sense but in the sense that a lightbulb goes on in your head and you say to yourself, "well duh!"? And it makes so much sense that it makes your stomach ache? Maybe it's just me, but that happened recently.<br />
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I'll tell about my trip home later, but over the weekend I had the realization that I've got some big changes to make. They are changes I've known I've needed to make for a while, but I've been procrastinating. I'm living in a place that, while it's been great to me, is not mine anymore. For the last few years, it has been. It's taught me a lot of very important lessons that will carry me into my next phase, and for that I'll forever be grateful for this little college town.<br />
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So here are, to me, some of the most important lessons I've learned here. Some were hard, some were fun, and all shaped me and helped kickstart me into my next chapter, which I'm starting to get excited about. And who knows, maybe it'll help a girl who's just about to move into my town to start <i>her</i> new chapter.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">1.</span> Be a good friend. Once you're out on your own, you rely on the people who come into your life as much as you do your family. And a few times I learned the hard way that it's so important to treat people the way you want to be treated. The golden rule is a real thing, folks. I'm a natural giver, that's what I like to do. I like to help people. But if you are constantly doing things for someone with nothing in return, it's probably time to think seriously about if that person deserves to stay around.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">2.</span> On the flip side of that, be careful who you trust. I hate that I had to learn this, but I learned the hard way. I grew up thinking that everyone had my back, that their intentions were good, which is a great way to grow up. But eventually I learned to become a realist. While most people are on your side, there will be a few who are not. It's important to learn who those people are as quickly as you can. And make sure that people can easily trust you.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">3.</span> Keep a constant watch on your bank account. This is important! When you're living paycheck to paycheck, as most college students and recent grads do, it's easy to go a little overboard. *guilty* Learn how to save, but also learn where and when to splurge. Sometimes {and only sometimes}, a new sweater can make a bad day turn out pretty good. Especially if you look killer in it. :)<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">4.</span> Don't stalk past exes on Facebook, Instagram, etc. I know this sounds like silly advice, but it's true! I seem to be the lucky girl who dates the guy who, about a week after you break up, is dating someone else. And it sucks! So why make yourself sad by keeping up with them? I learned that, by seeing how happy they are without you, it's easy to forget that you're happy, too. And maybe if you're not right now, you will be. I promise.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">5.</span> Take pictures. As a freshman I was one of those obnoxious 18 year olds who wanted a picture of EVERYTHING. But as the years went by and I lived with roommates who I relied on for photos, I all but stopped. And I regret that. So find that fine line between obnoxious teenager and "too mature for her own good" 20-something and take some dang photos! Just don't go Instacrazy. Three or more photos of the same event calls for a Facebook album. ;)<br />
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I'm sure there are quite a few more lessons I could post, but this is turning into a novel and I'm sure you're bored by now. So these are my top five. If you want more, leave me a nice little comment. :)<br />
<br />alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-240703969481015202013-11-05T16:17:00.000-08:002013-11-05T16:17:01.600-08:00november.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Hello from my 64 ounce Coke, which is where my day is at right now. How are you? You can't see it, but there was a big ol' sugar cookie on my lap that I ate in about 2 and a half bites.<br />
<br />
It's only Tuesday and I'm just about ready to get into bed and take a nap straight until Saturday. You know those days where you're going, going, going, and have to stop to remember to breathe? That's how my last three days have been. Being busy suits me, but it's always nice to have a break. And in just a few days I'll be on my way back home to California for the week. Just me, my mom, my dad {lovingly referred to as "The Captain," for those of you who watch HIMYM}, and the cat. A week of San Francisco, Apple Hill, the Galleria Mall, and 70 degrees. My impatient nerves can't wait.<br />
<br />
Until then, here are a few things that are getting me through that awkward, sad transition from Fall to Winter:<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1.</span> Saturday was THE PERFECT DAY. 65 degrees, yellow, and crunchy. The kind of day that you know is so perfect that you have to hang on for as long as you possibly can because it'll be over all too fast. It felt like the last day of Fall here, I just knew it. So we spent the day at a park, with a pizza and our short sleeves. And I soaked in every last bit.<br />
<br />
And on Sunday we woke up to snow, because well, that's how my life works.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2.</span> Plaid. I'm not quite sure how, but <a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=34609&vid=1&pid=918142072">this</a> and <a href="http://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=82420&vid=1&pid=605845042">this</a> found their way into my closet. What is it about plaid that just says Christmas/hunter/hot chocolate/Brawny man/Fall/Winter/snow/90s grunge all in one? Those are my favorite things.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3.</span> Essie's After School Boy Blazer nail polish. Sometimes when you wear nail polish that looks black but is secretly navy blue, you just feel a little bit BA. And as a girl, I reserve the right to be happy because of a nail polish color.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">4.</span> <a href="http://www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test">This personality quiz</a>. I'm a sucker for these suckers. Once you get your results, <a href="http://nerdapproved.com/misc-weirdness/compare-your-mbti-personality-type-with-harry-potter-characters/#gVJEmxXebjJQs2lr.32">check this out</a>. I'm an ISFJ and a Neville Longbottom, what are you? At first I didn't know how I felt about being a Neville, but he's still a Gryffindor and he grows up to be a total hottie and a hero, so...that sure sounds good to me!<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">5.</span> <i>Scandal</i>. My Netflix binge watching has taken a turn from comedies to dramas, and I'm very happy with this one. Once you get past the fact that the President is also the voice of Tarzan, it's fantastic. And makes me realize that I never want to work in politics. The fast-paced dialogue will hook you, I promise. And if you need a laugh from Olivia Pope, <a href="http://www.hulu.com/watch/553594?playlist_id=1031&asset_scope=all">here's one</a>. <br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">6.</span> And lastly, Christmas music. I'll be honest with you, I am not a Christmas purist. Christmas doesn't start the day after Thanksgiving, Christmas starts the second you find frost on your car window, or in the case of those of us from warmer climates, the minute it drops below 70 degrees. So for me, last Sunday was the official opening of the Christmas season. I will be happy to recommend some great songs from my <a href="http://littledailies.blogspot.com/2012/12/if-i-could-make-you-mixed-cd.html">playlist</a>, and check out Dave Barnes' new Christmas album while you're at it.<br />
<br />
And with that, my rambling is done. The problem with being busy is that there is no time to say the things that are rattling inside your head. So that's what this blog is for.<br />
<br />alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-17427992214688489662013-10-31T21:31:00.001-07:002013-10-31T21:31:25.285-07:00let's go to the mall and happy halloween.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Happy Halloween from Robin Sparkles and this amazing sunset! I'm off to go eat candy corn.</div>
<br />alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-76671821041369183142013-10-30T16:26:00.001-07:002013-10-30T16:26:58.135-07:00on being a grownup.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Today I had a meltdown. Not a full on, kicking, screaming, crying meltdown, because I think sometimes I lack those kinds of feelings, but there might have been a tear or two — the Alexa version of a meltdown. <br />
<br />
This meltdown was due to the fact that I am a grownup. Typing that, I just realized a grownup having a toddler-style meltdown sounds a little oxymoronish, but what can you do. Today I had to figure out a medical bill, renew my car registration, and get some car repairs done. If you're looking for a way to drain your bank account in a period of 3 hours, I am now the queen of doing that. And it's hard, and it hurts. Nothing leaves you feeling more vulnerable than having a few dollars to your name!<br />
<br />
But I guess the only thing that makes me feel okay about it is that we all go through stuff like this, right? Please tell me yes.<br />
<br />
Peter Pan might have known what he was doing.<br />
<br />
Over and out.<br />
<br />alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-1020352317932820852013-10-22T14:50:00.000-07:002013-10-22T14:50:35.366-07:00a letter to my little guy. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I got some really great responses for my <a href="http://littledailies.blogspot.com/2013/10/a-letter-to-my-girl.html">last post</a> {thank you!}, so I thought it might be kind of fun to write a letter to any future boys I might have and round out this little series. Granted, I've never been a boy, but I sure have spent a lot of time with them throughout my life, and I'd like to think I've learned a few things in my last 24 years that I'd hope to teach my future boys.<br />
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Dear Son,<br />
<br />
I know you're not here yet, but I can't wait until you are. Don't tell anyone, but when I grew up babysitting, boys were always my favorite. :) You're all just so fun! I can't wait to spend hours playing catch with you, and kicking around a soccer ball, and reading to you.<br />
<br />
As you grow up, there are a few things that I hope I can teach you. First, I want to teach you how to have a sense of humor. My dad and my brothers have great ones, and I hope that's something you inherit, too. You'll find that a sense of humor will allow others to feel comfortable around you, it can diffuse negative situations, and it'll just make you awesome. It's so important to learn that you can't take life too seriously. I hope you learn to have some fun!<br />
<br />
I hope that I can teach you how to respect others, especially your elders. There's not enough of that today, and that makes me sad. Older people always have so much wisdom and smarts, and, while you might not want to admit it sometimes {especially when you're an angsty teenager}, they're almost always right. Take it from me, a teenager who had her angsty moments, your parents are right 95% of the time. And just so you know, this isn't my sneaky way of making sure you listen to me someday. I've still got some learning to do before I can tell you that I'm always right. ;) But I hope you listen to your teachers, your parents, your grandparents, and any other good, influential older people you come across in your life.<br />
<br />
Along with respecting adults, I want to teach you to respect women. Know that the girls you associate with are just as awesome as you, they're just awesome in different ways. NO ONE is superior in any way. And just a tip, when you start dating, girls will watch how you treat other women, how you talk about them, what you think about them. And nothing is more attractive than a guy who respects us, and nothing is more unattractive than a guy who doesn't. So be aware. ;)<br />
<br />
Along this line of respect, I hope I can teach you to respect yourself. Never be too hard on yourself. Life is tough! And sometimes you'll be overwhelmed, but that's okay. I hope you learn to be optimistic and just keep truckin'. Know that you are loved, you are important, and that as long as you don't give up, you'll have a hard time failing.<br />
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I hope you love what you do. Whether you decide to be an astronaut, a doctor, a pirate, I hope you're lucky enough to love it. I hope you're passionate about whatever you decide to do with your life. I was lucky to grow up with parents who love what they do, and I saw the benefits that come from that.<br />
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I hope I can teach you to be a good friend. If I've learned anything it my life, it's that to have good friends, you have to be one first. So do all that you can to make time for other people, and when you listen, really listen. Because I promise you're going to need people to really listen to you.<br />
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Lastly, I hope I can teach you to hang onto your childhood for as long as you can. Too many kids today want to grow up so fast, and I promise that once you do, you sure miss that childhood. I hope your imagination stays with you for a long time, and I hope that you know that it's okay to use it.<br />
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I sure love you, Squirt, and I can't wait to meet you someday.<br />
<br />
Love,<br />
Your snarky, hardheaded, crazy mom<br />
<br />alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-2215829187326885392013-10-18T13:06:00.000-07:002013-10-18T13:06:29.901-07:00a letter to my girl.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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The other day as I was shopping, I overheard a mother tell her teenage daughter that she {the daughter} was "too chunky." This broke my heart. To a girl, her mother is the most important person in her life, the person she aspires to be, who she aims to please, who she wants to make proud. So when a mother openly points out a flaw in a way that breaks the daughter down, it's no wonder that we have so many girls who question who they are, how they were made, and what they can do.<br />
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I know I'm no mother, but that small comment had me thinking a lot today. I might have kiddos someday, and I might have a girl. What would I want her to know? Having been through teenagedom myself, what can I tell her now that I might forget in 20 years?<br />
<br />
Dear Daughter,<br />
<br />
I know I haven't met you yet, but I love you already. There's something special about little girls, and I think it's their innocence. I hope that that isn't taken away from you too soon. Today the world seems to teach us that innocence is a bad thing, but I disagree. Innocence keeps you pure. Some people think innocence is ignorance, but it's not. Innocence to me is being aware of what goes on around you, but keeping yourself from getting involved in what you shouldn't. I hope that you never have a desire to lose your innocence. Because once it's gone, you can't get it back.<br />
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I hope that as you get older, you never lose sight of who you are. You are so, so loved, and I hope you remember that you come from a line that consists of many strong women. My mom and my sister are two women who I look up to. Smart, successful, and driven, these are women who work hard for what they get. They are secure in who they are, and I hope that's something you inherit.<br />
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Please don't think that you have to fit a certain mold. Too many girls today, myself included, have an idea of what they <i>should </i>be: tall, thin, wealthy, beautiful, powerful, with a perfect home, a perfect wardrobe, a perfect family life. Sometimes we don't fit all those molds. I hope that you create your own mold, a mold that fits who you are perfectly.<br />
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I hope that I can teach you to be independent. One of the things that I've learned recently is that you need to know how to rely on yourself. Sometimes people will let you down, and that can be disappointing. But if you know how to take care of you, you will be so much happier.<br />
<br />
On the flipside of that, don't be afraid to ask for help. Your mom is stubborn, and asking for help has always been hard for her. ;) But I've learned over the last year that people do want to help, and I need to let them. So know when you can't do something on your own anymore, and ask for help. If you have spent your life being kind to others, they will line up to give you a hand.<br />
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Be consistent. I hope that you don't change yourself for a boy, for a group you want to fit into, or for anyone else. If people don't accept you for what you bring to the table, they aren't worth your time.<br />
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Always tell the truth. All lying does is get you into trouble. And people have an easier time picking up on lies than you might think. Life will be so much easier, and it will be easier to gain the trust of others, when you are honest.<br />
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Be a good friend, especially once you move away from home. There will come times in your life when you need someone, and I won't be near you. If you've been a good friend to others, they'll be the same in return. Also, on a side note, when you're dating someone, maintain your friendships! It can be easy to forget about friends when you're wrapped up in a relationship, but you will still need those people in your life, I promise. Don't forget about them, and don't let them forget about you.<br />
<br />
The biggest thing I want to tell you is that sometimes life doesn't work out exactly how we plan, and that's okay. Your mom has had so many plans that didn't seem to work out quite the way she wanted them to, but she's learning. ;) The biggest thing I've learned is that usually, things work out better than we've planned. We just need to be patient and let everything unfold.<br />
<br />
I have so much more that I'm excited to teach you someday, but the things I've mentioned are, in my opinion, the most important. Be kind, be funny, lend a helping hand, and you'll do just fine. If you end up anything like me, it might take you a few bumps in the road to learn these things, but sometimes God just has a way of working on us stubborn ones. When we refuse to learn something, he keeps teaching us until we get the message!<br />
<br />
Can't wait until you get here someday.<br />
<br />
Love,<br />
Your impatient, stubborn, silly, restless mom<br />
<br />alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-11150806796902088562013-10-17T21:50:00.002-07:002013-10-17T21:50:16.938-07:00love list.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Right now I'm loving...<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1.</span> <i>Call the Midwife</i>. I was looking for a new show to binge watch, and I came across this gem. Are you a <i>Downton Abbey</i> fan? Do you love England and the BBC and babies and the 1950s? Then this show is up your alley. Season 2 just became available on Netflix, and I'm already halfway through my second viewing. This show is wonderful. The characters, the plot, everything. It addresses women's issues, childbirth, class roles, etc. in a very real, and pretty blunt, way. Jenny Lee has the most romantic British accent I've ever heard, and Sister Monica Joan is about the greatest character on TV right now. I'm dying to read the book the show is based on. Watch it and let me know what you think.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">2.</span> '60s music. This is probably because of the above mentioned <i>Call the Midwife</i>, but right now I'm really into music from the 1960s. The Supremes, Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers, The Beatles, you know. Plus, it's fun to listen {and dance} to when you're baking in the kitchen. {<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2sAHiR0rkJg">This song</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CF3OsncGjU">this song</a> will put you in a better mood instantly.}<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">3.</span> Which brings us to PUMPKIN CHOCOLATE CHIP EVERYTHING. Bread, cheesecake, cookies, the whole shebang. My inner domestic goddess always comes out in full force come September and October, and generally doesn't leave until the holidays are over. So I've been constantly covered in flour and running out of canned pumpkin.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">4.</span> Cozy, oversized sweaters. H&M, you're killing it with your sweaters this season. And you're also killing my wallet. It's the worst kind of love/hate relationship.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">5.</span> Free lunch at work. For the last few days there's been Cafe Rio and pizza, and I'm not complaining. It's something I could get used to.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">6.</span> Yoga every day. I found a Youtube channel that has a 30 day yoga challenge, and each 20 minute video focuses on a different part of your body, yoga aspect, whatever. I do it first thing in the morning and I feel zen and calm and serene and all that for the rest of the day. Serenity now.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">7.</span> <a href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/hunter-original-tall-rain-boot-women/3638838?origin=category&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=Dark+Olive&resultback=1046">These boots.</a> They're on my wish list and I <i>will </i>have them, dang it.<br />
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What are you loving right now?<br />
<br />alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8930581501533789011.post-81042023345382466832013-10-16T00:56:00.003-07:002013-10-16T00:56:44.687-07:00grumpy old men and the ones i love.Tonight at work, once it started slowing down a little bit, something came up about good looking older actors. We went around and talked about who we found attractive {even some of the guys joined in on this conversation, which I found hilarious}. Richard Gere and George Clooney obviously made the list...duh...but I got a couple of confused looks when I gave my top three.<br />
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So here you go. The older men I have loved for the majority of my life:<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Harrison Ford</span><br />
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First of all, I'm of the opinion that he has the best name in the whole world. It's just so...<i>cool</i>. And so versatile. You can see his name in a tux at a fancy dinner party making toasts, or wearing a leather jacket on the back of a Harley. Although I prefer my Harrison on the motorcycle. He's so cool that I won't even judge him for that stupid earring. </div>
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Indiana Jones holds the biggest spot in my heart. From a young age I had a deep love for Indy. An adorably geeky professor who moonlights as a bullwhipping, fedora and leather-wearing archaeologist? That's my kind of superhero. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Tommy Lee Jones</span></div>
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This one got me the weirdest looks. I like my old men to be grumpy with a soft spot and a dry sense of humor, and Tommy Lee Jones has got that in the bag. He's always the crabby cop, detective, man in black, or whoever, and at first you're a little bit terrified of him, but then you realize he's just a softie. That's how I like 'em.</div>
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<b>Bonus:</b> This is also the reason why "The Fugitive" is one of my favorite movies. Harrison Ford and Tommy Lee Jones together? Stop my beating heart.*</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">John Cusack</span></div>
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We probably can't consider John Cusack as <i>older</i> just yet, but he's on my list anyway. When I googled pictures of him to use in this post, this is the only one I found of him coming even close to smiling. I first fell in love with him when I saw "Serendipity," but that love really stuck when I watched "Say Anything." Since then it's been a dream of mine to have somebody recreate this scene for me:</div>
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He's just the perfect blend of moody and brooding, but with a soft spot for anything slightly sappy. He's always the underdog and the antihero. And he rolled up his sleeves on his trench coat about 30 years before Pinterest made it cool. So that's why I love him.</div>
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And there they are, my old men. Moody, grumpy, and geeky. I can appreciate people like that. </div>
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And thus concludes the late-night ramblings of a girl who really just needs to go to bed.</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">*To see how all three of these hunks tie together, <a href="http://news.moviefone.com/2013/08/07/the-fugitive-25-things-you-didnt-know/">click here</a> and read fact #23.</span></div>
alexahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18309825803508561612noreply@blogger.com0