conversation with myself

Goodbye.

2011-01-19T21:48:00.000-07:00

I will no longer be updating this blog. To get the latest, go to my married-person blog.

It's been real.
It's been fun.
And, yes, it's been real fun.

My friend Ashley is awesome

2011-01-10T15:01:00.000-07:00

Look what she made...

She made it for the young women she works with at church. Read her post about it here.

Merry Christmas!

2010-12-17T13:23:00.000-07:00

Favorites:

Q: What was Jesus' mom's name?
A: Uhh... Mrs. Jesus?

Q: Who came to visit baby Jesus?
A: The three amigos.

This. Is. Awesome.

2010-11-29T10:56:00.001-07:00

This little girl is going places

2010-11-17T14:19:00.003-07:00

So true.

2010-10-22T09:16:00.002-06:00

Carlie showed me this at work today. I wish I had this in high school. Or even eight grade. Mrs. Albertson would have loved me even more ;)

Mommy bloggers gone too far

2010-10-20T09:50:00.001-06:00

I'm not sure how I feel about this article. Wait. Yes I am.

A little bit disgusted. And disappointed.

19% of Gen Y moms said they spend an average of 2+ hours a day on Facebook. Whhhhhat?
Gen Y moms said they conduct an average of 48% of communication with their immediate family in person. Huh?

Read the full article here.

New blog

2010-10-15T11:49:00.000-06:00

If you'd like to see what's happening at the Moss house, please direct your attention here.

Trunk-or-Treat

2010-10-14T16:29:00.000-06:00

Our team didn't win, but we bonded. And that's all that matters.

(said the loser)

Optimistic

2010-10-11T11:45:00.002-06:00

Deana Carter's Strawberry Wine came on my pandora station. It's going to be a good day.

RainFall

2010-09-23T16:48:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was the first day of fall, and it was welcomed with a rainstorm.

Thunder and everything. You know what they say, September showers bring...Wait. What?

Reminiscing

2010-09-17T14:59:00.000-06:00

I love my new job, but sometimes (especially on Fridays) I really miss my DU Crew.

This is inspiring.

2010-09-16T08:40:00.000-06:00

"There is no them. There are only facets of us."

Bear Lake Extravaganza

2010-09-14T16:57:00.000-06:00

Check out our adventures on Bear Lake over Labor Day weekend...

It can't get much better than that!

Since we couldn't get a puppy...

2010-09-12T16:17:00.000-06:00

We got a fish instead! Introducing Desmond "Fishie" Moss. We named him Desmond, but all we ever seem to call him is fishie. He hasn't quite warmed up to us yet, but I think he's a pretty good addition to our little fam-damily.

First day of grad school!

2010-09-03T12:05:00.001-06:00

Monday was Devin's very first day as a graduate student! He'll do great; BYU's MISM program is lucky to have him. And I'm still envious of his full-time student status. Ah, the good life.

Mock...yeah...ing...yeah...jay...YEAH!

2010-08-25T12:53:00.000-06:00

It's finally here! And guess who gets to read it first? Buahahaha.

nerd alert.

Hanging out at the temple

2010-08-23T16:05:00.000-06:00

My favorite things: friends, burgers, thunderstorms, and...work?

2010-08-20T09:40:00.001-06:00

Yesterday was "Lynton Burger Day" at work. We got hats, cotton candy, and burgers (almost) as big as our face! What a day. Plus, we got to wear Friday clothes on a Thursday! It's the little things. The event was topped off with a wild-n-crazy thunderstorm. The only way it could have been better is if they announced Lynton Burger Day was now every Thursday. I could definitely live with that.

PS: Please take note that I have blogged TWICE in one month now. Pat on the back for Caitlin, please.

PPS: More to come involving wedding, honeymoon, and new apartment adventures. Patience, please.

I miss this

2010-08-18T17:05:00.003-06:00

Come to the party!

2010-06-12T16:48:00.001-06:00

Big Days

2010-06-12T16:38:00.005-06:00

I realize I haven't done very well at updating my blog (surprise surprise). This may very well be the reason I only have four followers - two of which are my dad (love you, Dad.)

Here's the cliff notes version of my last couple months. Who ever reads the whole autobiography anyway?

March 12: Engaged!

Devin took me to a restaurant in Park City called "Fireside." After a delicious dinner and lots of awkward waitresses, Devin proposed! I said yes, but he doesn't remember that part. Afterward, all of the waitresses were my long lost best friends. And the owner, Brett, was Devin's new best friend. It was the best. night. ever.

April 22: Graduated!

I'm an official BYU graduate. Sometimes I still can't believe I'm not going back to school in the fall. It's cool, but I was never one of those people counting down the days until graduation. If I could get paid, I'd be an eternal student. But oh well. The working world is cool, too.

May 3: First day at CTMH

Speaking of the working world, I started my job as a Marketing Communication Specialist at the beginning of May. I like it a lot so far - it's a challenge, but a good one. The people are all great; I have a lot of fun everyday. I mainly work on their online scrapbooking product, StudioJ.com. It's everything I love - writing, organizing, managing something, and working with awesome people who teach me new things everyday. I have a lot to learn and improve on, but I think I can do it.

Memorial Day Weekend: Camping in Escalante

This trip made me wonder why I don't live my life. We camped on Nicole's family's property on Friday night and then spent all day Saturday hiking Slot Canyon. I loved it and so did my body. Outdoors, friends, exercise, and a road trip - what could be better?

As you can see, I'm living the good life. I've had a lot of other good days, too, but I'm sick of blogging. This thing takes a lot of time.

You can do anything good.

2010-05-31T10:31:00.000-06:00

2010-04-16T10:59:00.001-06:00

You guys. Wednesday was my last day of college. Ever.

We presented our capstone project to our client and some of our professors. It went well, and the whole semester was such a great experience. Below is a photo of my group, our project and our professor, Dr. Wakefield.

BYU was good to me, but now I think I'm ready for the next chapter.

The only way to get a job in this economy

2010-04-12T10:19:00.003-06:00

Happy Easter!

2010-04-05T18:20:00.002-06:00

I realize I am a day late, but if this doesn't say, "Happy Easter," I don't know what does. My little cousin, Stella, apparently just had to get that last egg.

I love that little girl.

Student Charity Ball!

2010-03-26T12:03:00.005-06:00

I've been working on this all semester, and it's finally here! I think everyone should go (if they can). It's so amazing how a group of less than 10 students can come together to create change. All proceeds go to education in Utah County, and our goal this year is $30,000!

Here's what you need to know:

When? TONIGHT! Friday, March 26, from 7-11 p.m.
Where? The Provo City Library Ballroom
Why? Silent and live auction, opportunities to network with big names and amazing people in Utah County, fabulous catered desserts, music, dancing and fun, of course.

So, COME! It will be cool.

Thought of the day

2010-03-23T09:20:00.003-06:00

"Sometimes when we plan to take care of the worst, we make the best less likely."
- Henry B. Eyring

What now, Harvard??

2010-03-11T11:59:00.002-07:00

Brigham Young University Is Nation's Most Popular National University

Ladies and gentlemen, readers of my blog all across the world, I just want to take this moment to say that yes, I do attend the most popular national university.

Effective advertising?

2010-03-09T12:02:00.001-07:00

This ad was on my screen today when I checked my hotmail account. For some reason it doesn't really make me want to go back to school, and I haven't even left yet.

Dear Motivation, please be my friend

2010-02-25T11:26:00.004-07:00

Symptoms:
Overall procrastination
Sleeping past seven on weekdays
Sleeping past nine on weekends
Studying while watching movies (ineffective)
Job hunting in the library (the place of study)
Forgetting appointments (I'm still mad about that)
Constant day dreaming
Gladly accepting A minuses (or even B minuses)
Night snowboarding
Building forts in your apartment living room
Etc etc etc

Diagnosis:
Senioritis: A contagious disease that affects all aspects of college seniors (or juniors) lives. Detrimental to grades, work-life and all responsibility-related activities. Advantageous for social life.

Treatment:
Graduate.

"An Anchor to the Souls of Men"

2010-02-22T11:19:00.005-07:00

"We must continue to exercise confidence in God, inasmuch as that is the first principle in our code of belief. We must believe that God has all power, that he loves us, and that his work will not be stopped or frustrated in our individual lives or in the world generally. He will bless us as a people because he always has blessed us as a people. He will bless us as individuals because he always has blessed us as individuals."
- Howard W. Hunter

Read more here.

Happy Anniversary, Mom and Dad!

2010-02-09T10:59:00.003-07:00

25 years! Can you believe it? What a perfect couple.

Immaturity is allowed sometimes

2010-02-08T11:50:00.004-07:00

My awesome roommate, Nicole, has this thing for fashion magazines. One day we found a Gap ad with several good-looking men that folded out to reveal even more good-looking men. They were each labeled by their style of jeans, so Nicole and I picked our favorite. She picked easy, I picked loose. Classy.

This past weekend we stopped by the mall, and what do you think we found? Our men, Loose and Easy. So above are our love-sick photos taken on my Blackberry of us being Mrs. Easy and Mrs. Loose. And then we lived happily ever after.

"The faces are different, but the love is the same."

2010-01-29T15:51:00.008-07:00

Disclaimer: This post appears misleading. I swear I'm not a lesbian. Read on.

My co-worker, Ashley Jones, and I had the opportunity to interview Mrs. JoAnn Losee. JoAnn and her husband, Richard, are both legends here in Utah County. They owned and operated Losee Jewelers from 1956 to 2009, and oh my gosh do they have stories to tell. Ash and I soaked up those two hours and fell in love with JoAnn and her words. For example:

"You just can't take romance out of it, and you need to keep romance in it forever."

My favorite part was all of the passion JoAnn emanated. Her expressions and words shined much brighter than her jewel-covered fingers. Sometimes it baffles me how you can spend 1/1,000 of your life with a person and genuinely feel loved and appreciated by them. Sincerity is rare, kind of like all of the diamonds JoAnn showed us.

I'm a proud big sister

2010-01-13T10:05:00.007-07:00

My mom e-mailed me Mitch's talk he gave in church last Sunday about setting goals, and I was so impressed with the little man that I want to show it off. Plus, he has some inspiring words for a new year. I love you, Mitch!

Good Morning. For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Mitchell McCain. I was asked to give a talk today on setting goals and how they can help us in life. This was a very good topic for me to talk on because I am very in to sports and in sports you frequently set goals, whether they are for a single game or for an entire season. I also set goals in church, like remembering to read my scriptures and fulfilling my duty to god. President Gordon B. Hinckley once stated, “Begin now to establish those goals which will bring you happiness…whatever it may be; a mission in which to surrender yourself entirely to the Lord to do His work or future marriage in the house of the Lord to a wonderful and delightful companion of whom you will be worthy because of the way you have lived.”

When setting your goals you first have to think of what you want to accomplish. Then once you know what your goals are, you need to figure out how long it may take to accomplish them, whether it be a day or a lifetime. Then you need to make your goals happen. Once you are working at your goals, you need to manage your time wisely, as the hymn number 226 “Improve the Shining Moments” states,

Time flies on wings of lightning
We cannot call it back.
It comes, then passes forward
Along its onward track.
And if we are not mindful
The chance will fade away,
For life is quick in passing.
‘Tis as a single day.

Elder M. Russell Ballard once gave a talk to the young adults of Salt Lake City on setting worthy goals. In his talk he stated that to be able to reach your full potential in life, you must have mastered the ability to set goals and fulfill them. You will then be able to make a great difference in the results you attain in this life. To help you be able to fulfill your goals, you can record them and then keep them in a place you will frequently see them like the mirror or refrigerator. Elder Ballard then went on to say “…bring forward to the front of your mind the worthy goals that you want to obtain. Then practice self-discipline.” Self-discipline is a very important trait to have when setting goals. Benjamin N. Woodson gave a few good words on discipline when stating, “For my part, I have concluded that the quality which sets one man apart from another – the factor which lifts one man to every achievement to which he reasonably aspires while the other is caught in the slough of mediocrity for all the years of his life – is not talent, nor formal education, nor luck, nor intellectual brilliance, but is rather the successful man’s greater capacity for self-discipline.” I need to have self-discipline to be able to complete my goals in sports. If I want to have a better football season, I have to commit myself and have the self-discipline to work hard at practices, keep myself in shape, listen to the coaches, and work at home to improve myself instead of just working during practice. Once you have the self discipline, you then need to make your goals happen. If you ever need help completing your goals, you can get it from your family, friends, and of course, you can pray.

If you accomplish your goals, and those goals are meaningful ones, then you are fulfilling the Savior’s teaching when He asked us, “Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect” (Matthew 5:48). Elder Ballard commented on this saying that, “Perfection is a process and not an event, and you will come to appreciate that perfection is an internal matter, not external. It is a process by which you and I learn to eliminate the things in life that are not good, replace them with the things in life that are eternal in nature, with the objective and thought that perfection is obtainable, but it must be earned.” When you spend your time fulfilling your goals in life, you are putting yourself on the path to perfection and making your life easier. The Lord will then bless us and magnify us to better serve in His kingdom.

BEAR TESTIMONY

Now I'm going to go set some goals.

Just thinking about life

2009-12-26T23:37:00.004-07:00

I came across this quote as I was reading today. I applied it to my life in this blog (since it's my blog), but I think everyone can relate somehow.

"Don't ignore the impulses that come to you to rise above yourself into a higher and more beautiful world.

Growing up, getting educated, seeing the world, and almost everything that happens to you will push you toward saying to yourself: 'Oh, that was just a dream. That's not possible. I could never change that much.'

You can.

The Savior promised, 'Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.'

He can and He will."

- Henry B. Eyring, To Draw Closer to God

Growing up...

Getting educated...

And seeing the world...

He hasn't only helped me, He's blessed me all along the way. I know this post is really selfish and appears to apply only to my life, but that's the only life I had to go off. Experience brings change, and Christ will help us make that change a good one and create something even better.

In the Spirit of Thanksgiving

2009-12-01T12:08:00.001-07:00

Check this out.
What are you thankful for?

What are you thankful for?

2009-11-25T23:22:00.009-07:00

This is cheesy.
Yes, it was my idea.
I love it.

I love BYU

2009-11-18T09:01:00.007-07:00

As I was walking to work today, I saw something that I realize has come to be expected in my time at BYU, but is actually unique for the world as a whole.

Everyone who goes to BYU or has gone to BYU knows those 10 minutes between classes consists of struggling through a maze of people as you attempt to make it to your next destination on time. You will run into or be run into by at least three people. It's inevitable. Today I was rushing between the JFSB and the Swicket (one of the most painful locations) and I saw the typical BYU seen: A boy dropped one of his gloves, and the boy in front of me picked it up and ran to catch up to him. Maybe it is just common courtesy, but I'm so glad I chose BYU (or maybe that BYU chose me).

On the rest of my walk I came up with a list of reasons why I've loved my almost four years here. I apologize since my blog consists mainly of lists, but apparently that's how I digest everything I observe in order to make it understandable. Here it goes.

BYU's education. For over three years my main responsibility has been engorging myself with knowledge then hoping that knowledge is permanent enough to help me pass a test. Most of my days and nights here were spent studying, reading, writing, memorizing, etc. But now I hope that knowledge is ingrained enough to last a lifetime. I think it is, but there's always more to learn.
BYU's people. Oh my gosh. I never knew there were so many incredible people in the world, let alone on one campus. The people here have changed my life, which is pretty cool.
BYU's environment. I'm safe here, but not complacent. I'm moving forward, but not too fast. Of course there are days where I forget and start to compare myself to the thousands of other people here who are better than me, but that just gives me excellent models to follow, right?
BYU's spirit. No, not school spirit. I mean spirit as in the Spirit. My testimony has experienced exponential growth to the fullest degree (see that, I even used a math word which further proves #1). There isn't anywhere else I could have gone that would have provided this kind of solid foundation for my life.

I graduate in April. Yeah, April. I know! APRIL!! Crazy. But on my walk to school today (I guess I think a lot while I'm walking, who knew?), I noticed the sign I pass everyday:

"The World is Our Campus."

Phew. Thanks, BYU, for taking over the world. Now I won't feel quite as homesick when I leave.

Love this

2009-11-03T13:15:00.002-07:00

The new music video by Michael Buble, "Haven't Met You Yet" made me smile the whole time. Check it out.

Embrace the ordinary

2009-10-09T09:19:00.007-06:00

The only good part about Facebook status updates is when people tell me things that actually benefit my life, you know? I don't care if Suzy just ate a bowl of cereal or if Timmy got a C on his math test. Stop wasting my time. I do, however, appreciate people telling me things that are actually worthwhile. For example, a couple of days ago my friend put on his status "Macey's Grocery Store is selling Life and Cap'n Crunch cereal for $.99 a box." Thank you, I will go get some. That's what Facebook statuses are intended for.

Anyway, I promise there is a point to this post. Seriously. As I checked my Facebook today, a friend's status caught my attention, then actually kept it. Plus, it may have changed my life. But that is yet to be determined. Check out this Web site, then let me know if it changes your life. My favorite one so far is, "Today, I got a missed call from my own phone. I'm still confused."

It's nice to know I'm not the only one who finds peculiarity in normalcy.

Hello Fall, I'm not sure I missed you

2009-09-25T09:15:00.003-06:00

I'm really glad I'm not Fall, because I wouldn't want to compete with Summer. Though I admit I enjoy the colorful leaves and the cool breezes, Summer has my heart. Considering my somewhat low expectations, I thought it may help to make a list of the things I love about Fall.

Fall Loves:

Carmel apples
Hoodies
Being a student again (this is kind of a love/hate situation)
The mountains tie-dyed in red, orange and yellow
General Conference
Football games (ehhh for like the first half)
A new start
Seeing friends from winter semester back on campus
Halloween and all such activities
I get to see my family twice this semester

This list was harder to create than I expected. Nevertheless, I welcome you, Fall. Winter, however, you stay away.

I'll try and post pictures of my life festivities soon for all of those two people who are interested. In the meantime, go jump in a pile of leaves.

For Mom and Dad

2009-09-12T23:30:00.008-06:00

I love how both of my parents think of me when they find good quotes. I love getting unexpected texts and e-mails from both of them throughout the day full of words they've heard that made them think of me. I love how they always send them right when I need them.

From Dad at the beginning of the school year:

Insist on yourself. Never imitate.

- Ralph Waldo Emerson

From Mom today:

Be one who nurtures and builds.
Be one who has an understanding and a forgiving heart,
who looks for the best in people.
Leave people better than you found them.

- Marvin J. Ashton

From Mom when I needed faith:

We do not always receive inspiration or revelation when we request it. Sometimes we are delayed in the receipt of revelation, and sometimes we are left to our own judgment. We cannot force spiritual things. It must be so. Our life's purpose to obtain experience and to develop faith would be frustrated if our Heavenly Father directed us in every act, even in every important act. We must make decisions and experience the consequences in order to develop self-reliance and faith.

- Elder Dallin H. Oaks

What they don't realize is that sometimes they say wise things, too. Here's some words I've saved from them:

From Dad when I needed it most in high school:

When you make all of the little decisions right, the big ones are easy.

From Mom the night after high school graduation:

Mom: "Well, do you feel like an adult now?"

Me: "No."

Mom:" Good. Because you're not."

From Dad when I was struggling with choosing a path for my life:

Bottom line, sweetie, is you are going to be awesome at whatever you decide to do. I really believe that. But you need to find what's going to make you happy. And the cool thing is that you might think that you have to know what you want to do and it's good to have an idea of what you like, but you don't have to know right now. I still don't know what I like to do other than hang around my family and go fishing. But everyday is a new day and brings new challenges and new opportunities. There's nothing wrong with saying I was good at this, maybe I can be good at that now. Whatever you decide is going to be awesome.

From Mom when I was being a whiny brat:

Are you inviting guests to this pity party?

From Dad after a teacher conference:

I always knew you were the best. Everyone else is just starting to catch on.

From Dad when I was having an awful day and I felt so alone in Utah:

Everyday is a good day. Some are just better than others.

I love how I have the best parents with the best words. I love you, Mom and Dad.

Captured Summer Happiness

2009-07-29T18:07:00.018-06:00

Completely Chilled

2009-07-21T00:36:00.006-06:00

My mom called after she read my last blog post and said I need to chill. So that's what I've been doing. And she was right.

The recent list of "chill" things:

Read two books in one week. The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls and My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult. Both were completely refreshing in their own ways. Now my reading addiction is back and I'm feeding it.
A few Orem Owlz games. They're a minor league team here. Not as good as the Cardinals, but still baseball and still mind cleansing.
Writing in my journal again. I finished my old one and it took me nearly a month to get a new one (thanks mom). It's amazing how many of my prayers are answered through writing. So cool.
Celebrating the age of 21 like there's no 22. At my internship, I got to photograph a service project with horses and disabled kids. Then at work, the boys all sang to me when I walked in and we had pizza and an ice cream cake. Next came a delicious dinner at Guru's in downtown Provo with fabulous company followed by an ice cream bar from the ice cream truck. You can still eat those happily when you're 21, especially if the boys chase it down for you. After we downed the ice cream, we headed to the ghetto batting cages and did our best to not strike out. Ice blocking came next with few injuries and a night full of laughter. To top it all off, we played up the river down the river and hung out until 3 a.m. Heavenly Father has surrounded me with amazing people, as usual.
Zip lining at a ropes course, boating, karaoke-ing, concert-ing, driving with the top down, working out, playing tennis, playing cards, watching 24, observing the local larpers, working hard and then playing harder, etc. etc. etc.

A few of the things mentioned above happened before the chill advice, but I'm counting them anyway. I miss my family as always, but I have a family here, too. In the back of my mind will always be mountains full of questions about my future, but I'm letting them hibernate there for now and living my summer rather than my fears.

Timing really is everything

2009-07-11T01:36:00.003-06:00

There's a reason why a cliche becomes a cliche. It's because it's true. Don't judge a book by it's cover, love is blind, the pot calling the kettle black. Right. People say them because there's no better way to explain something that everyone understands. Every language, culture and religion has their own cliches. It's because they work; they resonate. But sometimes they aren't enough.

Lately I've become fixated on the concept of timing. Actually, let me backup. I've always been obsessed with time. I plan my days, my semesters, my years almost to the exact hour. But timing is different than time. Timing is everything, but time is fleeting. I can't schedule timing, but I can schedule my time. I'm writing in circles here.

So what do I do with something that is so indispensable, yet almost entirely out of my control?

"Someone has said that life is what happens to us while we are making other plans. Because of things over which we have no control, we cannot plan and bring to pass everything we desire in our lives," Dallin H. Oaks said.

Ok. So I should stop trying to plan everything. That's cool. Or should I just make plans and then adjust my life when they don't work out (which they rarely do)? I can do that. But eventually I'm going to need some constancy. Sometimes I feel like life is all curve balls, but if I expect a curve ball every pitch, then when that fast one down the middle comes, I'm destined to strike out.

"Do not rely on planning every event of your life - even every important event. Stand ready to accept the Lord's planning and the agency of others in matters that inevitably affect you," Elder Oaks said. "Plan, of course, but fix your planning on personal commitments that will carry you through no matter what happens. Anchor your life to eternal principles."

That I get. Really, I get it. But sometimes it's so hard for me to remember. If I'm doing the right things and if I trust the Lord's will and His timing, then life's not going to be what I planned, but better. And in the long run, that's a relief.

But seriously, what am I supposed to do right now? Or in the next month? Or in the next year? I hate not knowing. But luckily faith prepares us for whatever life brings.

Southern Love

2009-06-26T18:52:00.013-06:00

Kell and I headed down to Georgia last week for our friend's Mekelle and Kyle's wedding. It was exciting to travel with Kell again since last summer we adventured across Europe together.

We are well rehearsed in this whole flying thing.

We were first-hand witnesses of southern hospitality. We stayed at the neighbor's house, and every night there were notes and treats for us. We called it our resort.

Mekelle was a beautiful bride.

And Kyle was a handsome groom.

We were put in charge of the candy bar. This is probably the one and only thing we contributed to the entire event. We were so spoiled.

Then we headed back to Provo kind of against our will.

I'm so happy we went. It was such a fun four days. I loved spending time with family even though they weren't my own. It's refreshing to be around a family when you're around college students all the time. A little change of scenery and a reason to celebrate is always a good thing.

The soundtrack of my summer

2009-06-16T23:12:00.003-06:00

Don't Stop Believin', Journey - If you don't like this song, I don't like you.
If It Kills Me, Jason Mraz - He sings my feelings all the time. How does he do it?
Poker Face, Lady GaGa - This song comes up everywhere I go. The only lyrics I know are pa pa pa poker face pa pa poker face. But that's all I need. And everyone looks cool when they sing this song without music.
Small Hours, Matchbox 20 - I'm a little bitter this summer was the first time anyone told me how wonderful the movie Meet the Robinsons is. Go watch it.
Everything, Michael Buble - To remember last summer.
Where You Lead, Carole King - To remember two summers ago.
5:19, Matt Wertz - I just really like him. And everyone can resonate with this song.
Let Love In, Goo Goo Dolls - I regularly have pandora playing at work and this song comes up inevitably every time.
Walking in Memphis, Marc Cohn - His voice makes me want to be friends with him. If I had March Cohn's number, I'd probably call and ask him for advice all the time.
Lovin' In My Baby's Eyes, Taj Mahal - It makes me happy. Love is simple.

Seriously?

2009-06-01T20:27:00.005-06:00

As I sat and studied for a midterm tonight, these are the texts I received. One from my mother, the other from my father.

They got the beat

2009-05-28T17:16:00.004-06:00

For Memorial Day weekend I decided to jump in the Jeep and head to Vegas for the second time this month to see my family. We spent the weekend watching movies, playing cards, swimming and above all, playing DDR on Wii the right way. First Bren and I discovered how much easier it is to get an A through teamwork. He did the hands while I did the steps. We dominated. Next we discovered how much more entertaining it is to mimic the backup dancers rather than actually dance. Here's a video of Bren, Brody and Devin rocking it to "We Got The Beat."

It was a wonderful weekend. Thanks again McLeod family!!!

I love my mom

2009-05-20T20:28:00.003-06:00

I thought it would be selfish of me not to share this conversation I had with my mom via texting today. As an added bonus I think people will understand my personality more as they come to know the woman who raised me.

Mom: "So sad. Nordstrom sale today and you're not here."

Cait: "Awwww! No way! Get me some cute stuff."

Mom: "I'm already home. I bought a cute dress."

Cait: "You mean for me, right?"

Mom: "Sorry... it's for conference. You want to go?? Gee wants you on stage!"

(Brief explanation: My family's company has a conference every year where all the grand kids usually come out on stage. Since I'm a decade older than all of them, I look a little out of place but my grandma loves to have me out there anyway. And my mom likes to rub it in my face.)

Cait: "Tell her I'm not cute like I used to be."

Mom: "I will tell her."

Cait: "Thanks. I'm sick of summer. I want to come home."

Mom: "I'm on the deck laying out. I love summer!"

Cait: "Thanks mom."

Mom: "You bet!"

No matter how hard I try my mom will never pity me. It reminds me of the time this little five year old boy broke his knee on our playground in our backyard and my mom told him if he didn't stop crying he would have to go home. I love it.

Now my lack of compassion makes more sense, doesn't it?

I'm still learning things I ought to know by now

2009-05-12T20:38:00.004-06:00

I'm almost an official adult and I'm just now learning things I should have had down a long time ago. For example...

1. Faith and fear cannot coexist. If I'm trying to pray for all of this guidance in my life, I can't be afraid of where Heavenly Father's going to guide me. If it's a mission, great. If it's not, great? Faith makes things possible, not easy.

2. I get attached too easily and have major separation anxiety sometimes. I swear I'm like a puppy except not as cute. I need to grow and change, therefore I should let other people do the same, right? Ugh. As excited as I am for the future, sometimes I want things to stay exactly as they are.

3. My mom was right. No matter how many invitations I send out, no one will come to my pity party.

4. My dad was right. Every day is a good day, some are just better than others. Good things happen to positive people.

5. My first impression is never right. Never. Like when I met Brook Boyer in AP Euro my sophomore year of high school and thought she was way too cool for me. We're still best friends (but she is still way too cool for me, she's just really humble). Or when I came to BYU when I was 17 and thought I would transfer before I turned 18. I'm almost 21 and still here (and I love almost everything about it). Or when I thought Twilight was going to be a good book (sorry Edward fans).

Learning is amazing, but too often I learn things I should have already learned. And can things you've learned in the past evaporate, meaning you have to soak them up all over again? Maybe my knowledge has an expiration date. That's not true, but sometimes that's what it feels like.

With all of these wise people around me you'd think I'd be a lot wiser. I don't know how I am so blessed to have such amazing family, leaders and friends. I just hope people judge me based on who I surround myself with and not on some of the things that come out of my mouth, my pen or my keyboard.

This kind of sounds like a depressing post, but really it's not. I'm contemplative, not plaintive.

For Tracy

2009-05-01T17:53:00.007-06:00

I have these wonderful videos of Stella and Jake that you need to see.

Summer To-Do List

2009-04-24T00:48:00.005-06:00

It's finally here! Summer 09 has officially started and it is already beautiful. Let's not waste it.

1. Rock my United Way internship. I got it! I'm nervous. It all starts next Thursday. Can I do it? This internship is an answer to a lot of questions and a lot of prayers. The plan is to learn as much as possible and use this blessing to start reaching my long-term goals. Someday I will be running my own nonprofit organization centered on families, and this is where it begins.

2. Read. I already went to the park this week and read for two hours. My sunburn proves it. I can't wait to work all day and read all night. PS - I'm always open for suggestions.

3. Be a better friend. Everyday someone new surprises me with their amazingness. For example, just last week I was at an 8 a.m. review session for my marketing final. I surrendered to my backpack to get out my cinnamon gum to keep me awake. To my dismay, it was empty. The guy sitting next to me reached into his backpack, pulled out a stick of gum and handed it to me. It sounds small, but it made my day. I love when Heavenly Father works through other people to remind me He's there.

4. See my family. So far it's not working with my summer schedule, but I promise I will go to St. Louis this summer. I miss them.

5. Learn to drive stick shift. Ok, seriously, this has been on my life to-do list forever now. Let's make it happen.

6. Live outside. Hiking, tennis, floating down the Provo river, camping, playing. It's all happening. Not to mention baseball games. I feel closer to home there. Right now my window is open. Ahhh summer.

7. Get to know my ward. I thought I was making an effort, but it turns out I was doing the bare minimum. They don't know me and I don't know them. It's time to change that.

There will be more, but I'm tired now. The point of this was to incorporate some accountability into my life. So really, this is a selfish post. It's for me, not you. Sorry.

Goodnight.

Just so you know, I've been keeping my goal

2009-04-13T00:22:00.011-06:00

At the beginning of this year I decided to figure out my priorities and set goals accordingly. Genius, huh? Well, included in my top five was traveling. The only logical thing to do then was to set a goal to leave Utah at least once every month in 2009. So far I've been victorious and it feels so good.

January - Chicago with the family. (This one is kind of cheating since I was home for Christmas break, but I'm counting it.)

February - I bought a plane ticket and flew home to St. Louis to surprise my mom for her birthday. I think it was one of my best purchases in my twenty years of life.

March - My dad surprised me one day with a call saying he bought me a plane ticket to Florida for baseball spring training. He's the best. I flew all day Tuesday, watched a game on Wednesday, then flew back all day Thursday. So worth it. I love my family.

April - My long-awaited venture to Logandale, Nevada finally happened. It was just as I always imagined - desert, small and wonderful.

What's in the future you ask? Oh, I'll tell you. I already have a plane ticket to Las Vegas in May to see my cousin who will get back from his mission in Japan soon. Currently I check priceline, expedia, travelocity, etc. everyday to find a cheap plane ticket to Atlanta in June to go to my friend's wedding. And July? I'm hoping for Paris, but let's be practical.

Life is good and the world is beautiful.

Will I regret this post in the morning?

2009-04-05T23:51:00.005-06:00

I promise I'm not normally one of these girls. (At least I don't think I am.)

On our five-hour drive to Logandalevilletonchesterfield, Nevada this weekend, I discovered my future wedding song:

"At the Beginning" by Donna Lewis and Richard Marx --- Yes, it is from the movie Anastasia. I am not ashamed. It may all spring from my childhood crush on Dimitri. The best line - "In the end I want to be standing at the beginning with you." It's beatiful, listen to it.

FYI: This does not mean I have my wedding colors picked out, nor does it mean I have my temple date set. I swear.

Baseball season is officially here

2009-03-14T20:10:00.019-06:00

Last night Nicole and I went to the BYU v Utah baseball game at Miller Park. We got there and couldn't find a seat. That hasn't happened to me in all my years at BYU. It was insane. Apparently it was "Throwback Night" and tickets were 25 cents. Finally we snagged two seats after asking a few people to move down. Then we checked the scoreboard. 11-0 Utah. Grrrrrreat.

It got a little chilly, but luckily we came prepared with blankets. Over the next couple innings BYU fought back pretty ferociously. So we decided to celebrate. Long ago (last season) Nicole and I made a commitment to one day eat the infamous Cougar Tails at a baseball game. They are donut-like treats people buy in a long brown paper bag (maybe BYU's alcohol equivalent?). We decided tonight was the night. After finagling the cashier a little bit since we only had enough money on both our signature cards put together, we left with 2 tails and 1 hot dog. We were pumped.

Here's the kicker. It turns out those tails are a lot longer than they look. I swear Cosmo's real tail isn't even that long. About a third of the way in, we were both sick. But we were determined. I am happy to say that on Friday, March 13, 2009, Nicole and I achieved our goal. Yes, we both swallowed two feet of donut. My stomach has never moved in that many directions before. It was so worth it.

The after shot. We don't really look like we ate ourselves sick, instead I look destraught and Nicole looks perplexed. I guess modeling is not in our futures.

(PS- I also discovered Nicole has a fear of Cosmo. He came up to us several times and every time she flinched and backed away. Who knew? I'm never letting her live this one down.)

By the eigth inning, we were tied 13-13. It was amazing. I would totally type in all the events that led up to that magnificent score, but I fear I would lose several of my few readers. But seriously, I've never been to a BYU sporting event that exciting. I found myself on my feet screaming several times unintentionally.

Sadly, because of one error in the top of the ninth, we lost 15-13. But it was still sooooo good. Nicole and I kept our brown paper bags to remember the magic.

Quotes of the night:

1. "If you had another eye, you'd be a cyclops!!!!" - A guy behind us to an ump after a HORRIBLE call. This was one I'd never heard before, but I liked it.

2. "If we lose this game, you guys all owe me 25 cents." - Another guy seated behind us

3. "Hey, did you guys see my picture in the Daily Universe? It was in there." - The same guy who made the 25 cent comment - he was really funny but it probably doesn't translate as well.

4. "Oh. My. Godness..... uhhh.... I was going to say 'gosh' but then I started to say 'goodness'."

- Nicole Terril

Nicole and I decided that throw back night became throw down night when we decided to down the tails, but quickly turned into throw up night after we actually did down them.

I love this sport.

A quick jab at Utah + an update

2009-03-13T17:02:00.013-06:00

For those of you who are avid readers of my blog that I update oh-so-much, you will remember a past post I wrote, what, back in June 08? entitled "Cupcake Nation." For new readers, a brief overview: I talked of cupcakes taking over the universe, basically. It was outdated then. SURPRISE! Utah is just now catching on. For a state that replaces alcohol, drugs and other such addictions with ice cream, jello and ultimate Frisbee, you would think Utah would be the inventor of this infectious trend. Nope. For some reason I find that a little disappointing.

Recently I've received a good number of complaints claiming that my blog is craving an "update"; however, I sat for a good 3 minutes and realized I have nothing to update anyone on. Still school, still work, still happy, still a little bit pathetic. At least I'm consistent.

Here's a few pictures of the past two months to satisfy any unsatisfied readers.

I went home and surprised my mom in February for her birthday. Thanks to my awesome Aunt Jenny and a few innocent white lies, the surprise was a success. It was a great weekend. Isn't she beautiful?

I took my brother and sister to Castlewood (my fourth favorite place on earth as of now) and hiked. It was perfect, as always.

I love this little girl SO much. I got to see her dance when I went home and she is quite a talented three-year-old.

Jake is a hard little worker. He talks so much now and we have recently discovered his natural talent of performing in front of a live audience. He also gets embarrassed easily which we learned when I started dancing and he screamed "Caity!!!" repeatedly until I stopped. No one blamed him and everyone was grateful.

Evidence that I have no talent in all things "Wii." Add it to the list.

Apparently I only take pictures when I'm home, but I found this one and it's a keeper. Amber, Nicole, Brooke and I all recently learned that we love the Throwdown. Ultimate fighting? Oh yes please.

Since according to my blog February 09 didn't exist, here's a list of things I would have/should have/could have blogged about.

Good Things February:
1. I got to go home and see my family. The last time I was home in February was 06.
2. I got a 95% on a test at the testing center which means it was highlighted with a note like "Great Job!" next to it. The last time I got a 95% on a test was probably also in 06.
3. Baseball started, which only means good things.
4. I saw my friend, Kate, for the first time in six months before she went into the MTC. She's beautiful in and out.
5. I had a lot of really good days.

Good Things March (so far):
1. We set up a want-to-be ping pong table at work. Who knew a hexagon shaped table and dollar store paddles could be so fun?
2. I went hiking with Brooke. It turned into snow shoeing. FYI: just because the weather is beautiful does not mean the snow in the mountains is melted.
3. I finally finished season 2 of 24. Bring on season 3.

Happy now?

I don't need Nicole's permission to blog this.

2009-01-19T23:53:00.012-07:00

Nicole and I went a little crazy with the camera tonight. We decided to do face masks around midnight and it's a good thing we caught this on film, because this is a memory we wouldn't want to forget. I decided to share it with all of the many followers of my blog despite Nicole's embarrassment.

Warning: Makeup is not present in any of the following pictures. Look at your own expense. And please don't judge me, but feel free to judge Nicole all you want.

I think clean faces is the last thing we should be worrying about.

Like our new shower curtain? Nicole models it so well.

We had a lot of fun, obviously.

"The sad part is, that's what our faces look like normally." -Nicole Terril

I love this moment: Nicole screamed, "We need to get closer!!" Then she put her arm around me and I started laughing hysterically even though I look like I'm crying out in agony.

TA DA! Squeaky clean. I expect a plethora of compliments on my glowing skin tomorrow, fyi.

A new year in an old city

2009-01-02T15:56:00.014-07:00

I recently realized that I have very few friends in St. Louis. Actually, I think I have a grand total of two? Maybe three? Sad, I know. I'm all torn up about it. So to bring in 2009, I shot a text over to my friend, Brooke, who goes to BYU as well and we headed downtown for some good old fashion outdoor ice skating. Once we got there, it was packed with families and also cost $9. So we did things our own way. We decided that since we were already downtown we would get pictures of us at our favorite St. Louis places. Enjoy.

The first stop was the St. Louis Art Museum. It's beautiful. And free. Which makes it even more beautiful.

Next was the Boat House. Something sketchy was going down there so we got a picture and ran back to the car. St. Louis is the second most dangerous city, you know, so we were sure to be careful.

Meet me at the Muny. The Muny, in Forest Park! Yes, we had to stop at the Muny which is an outdoor theatre in Forest Park. Unfortunately, no shows were playing. Plus that stupid sign ruined our pictures. But as an added bonus, now we know how to get gift cards for the summer.

Everybody loves the zoo. We couldn't get a picture by the giant cement sign but we settled for the north entrance. Brooke is ferocious.

Turtle Park was turtliscious. We both had never been, but we're definitely going back.

Yes, we did actually make it to the rink. And we would have skated too, if it was free like everything else.

What's a St. Louis tour without a stop at the Arch? This made our night and it was the closest I've ever been.

It was a good way to welcome a new year. We'll see what 2009 brings with it.

Weekend getaway in the windy city

2008-12-29T16:05:00.019-07:00

We decided to go to Chicago the day after Christmas for a nice little weekend away since we weren't going to Copper Mountain, CO this year to ski and board. I always assumed spontaneity was rare in my family, but my parents proved me wrong. For my mom, Abs and me, this weekend was delightful. For my dad and brother, not so much.

Goodbye home!

Jack Bauer entertained Mitch and me on the ride up. He does not disappoint.

Pizza the first night, of course. Giordano's comes highly recommended for delicious reasons.

A museum the next day. Our smiles are slightly misleading. We discovered we aren't really into science or industries.

Mitch and I did a reenactment later to show our true feelings towards science and industries.

Shopping was good to Miss Abby....

Most of the time.

This picture cracks me up. It's such an excellent portrayal of her mood right then. And mine.

The Evergreen Restaurant in Chinatown makes you feel like you are actually in China; however, I'm still not convinced the Chinese eat Crab Rangoon.

I love this town!

The McCain's never miss a chance to eat good chocolate.

Hey look! My parents finally came together to take a decent picture. Thanks for the group effort, guys.

The final verdict:

Abby: Enjoyed Chicago, but "you should see New York City."

Mitch: After standing next to the man who cursed every other word and getting his jacket stolen in the ESPN zone, he was happy to be leaving.

Me: Loved it as usual. Chicago's at the top of my list of cities to live in once I graduate.

Abs attempted her reporter skills in the second city.

Goodbye Chicago. See you soon.

Christmas Day 2008

2008-12-28T22:18:00.006-07:00

Christmas 08 was perfect. We had everyone over for Christmas Eve dinner and then woke up early the next morning to full stockings, presents to open and biscuits and gravy to eat. We spent most of the day at my grandparent's house with all the cousins, aunts, uncles, etc. The only bad thing about Christmas is how fast it all goes by. I've still been saying "Merry Christmas" to everyone even though it's technically over. One of my biggest pet peeves is when people take down all of their decorations and lights the day after Christmas. Soak it up, it only comes once a year.

Merry Christmas.

The funny face game

2008-12-21T23:37:00.004-07:00

I survived.

Finals, knee brace, airport. It's all over. My favorite part you ask? Probably finally landing in St. Louis and walking to the baggage claim to see my family waiting for me. First response: my mom starts cracking up - so hard, in fact, that she has to sit down. Then, when she can finally breathe again, she gets up, starts making fun of my walk up and down the baggage claim, then says, "You look like you have cerebral palsy." Thanks mom, I love you too and I'm so happy to be home.

I did the math. I've been home a total of 32 hours and have slept 18 of them. That's beautiful. However, considering my reputation with numbers, I wouldn't completely trust me with that calculation.

Here's a video to introduce the first night of Christmas break.

Knock on wood

2008-12-07T23:03:00.005-07:00

Said Michael Scott, "I'm not superstitious, but I am a little stitious."
I think I am, too.
Do bad things really come in threes? I hope not, but I'm beginning to think there may be a little truth in that superstition.

Two weeks ago I got in the most traumatizing car accident of my life (Yes, I am dramatic).
This weekend I sprained my mcl in my knee while snowboarding.

What's next? Stay tuned.

I'm thankful for Thanksgiving

2008-11-27T22:26:00.003-07:00

I'm on a blogging spree this week. Today was wonderful. I spent the whole day with family from both my mom and dad's sides and I loved absolutely every second of it. I count my family as one of my greatest blessings, advantages and assets. Can people be assets? I'm not sure that's in the accounting definition, but I don't know any of those definitions anyway so why start now.

I'm not sure how I deserve to be blessed with such amazing people in my life, I just know that I am. I found my essay for my BYU application 3 years ago on my family computer today and I thought it was pretty relevant to all the day's emotions. So I included it. It's not the best writing, obviously, but I still feel the same way.

“No man is an island.”
(John Donne)

I am a firm believer that if the character of a person is not clear, look at her (or his) friends. It is who we surround ourselves with that truly defines who we are and who we will become.
I have not won any state championships, nor am I the valedictorian of my high school class; however, I can say with confidence that I have succeeded in surrounding myself with the right people.
The people who encourage, listen, inspire, teach, and accept.
Because of one motivational teacher I was encouraged to maintain a better than average GPA while involving myself in numerous extracurricular activities. Because of a constant friend I experienced the elation of high school while also surviving the inevitable struggles. Because of my newspaper adviser I have been introduced to the stirring field of journalism and acquired a thirst for the future. Because of a supportive mother and father I have been taught to love my Heavenly Father and developed a firm faith in His gospel. And because of a compassionate Savior, I have been taught to accept and love others.
It is by no coincidence that through friends, family, and teachers I have found individuality. Through others, I have found myself.
The future is a mystery to me. I do not know who I will become or what I will be.
I do know that if I am in the right environment, surrounded by the right people, my greatest potential will become a reality.
I can think of no other environment than that of Brigham Young University that offers what I am seeking- a place to add to an abundant list of the right people.

There you have it.

PS- If you're interested in knowing who won the throwdown, here's the results:
We had a lot of positive reactions to both pies; however, word leaked on who made which pie (which is against the throwdown rules). So it was obviously biased. For example, my grandpa raved about the cherry pie until he found out mine was the apple, and then he was all about the apple. I called for a re-count but wasn't willing to make another pie. I did see my mom on allrecipes.com tonight under the "pies" tab already searching for next year's recipe, so obviously she sees me as a threat.

(But I think she won)

Day 1: shopping and a throwdown

2008-11-26T23:56:00.012-07:00

Being back at home is never boring. Today I slept in, ate banana chocolate chip pancakes that Abby made, went shopping, had dinner with the whole family, then instilled a brand new Thanksgiving tradition. Continue on if you want details...

Since Mitch is now bigger than me, he automatically assumes he now rides shotgun. But how wrong he is.

Lunch at my favorite cafe.

Then shopping.

ANOTHER Mizzou hat? I'm beginning to worry about this kid.

I told my mom this is her new default picture for facebook. She didn't go for that. Good thing.

Professional shopper at age 11.

Then we headed to target. Abby and I renewed our love we share for the notebook aisle.

Ok, now for the important stuff. We began a new Thanksgiving tradition tonight. It's called the Pie Throwdown. It's kind of a spin-off of the food network show, Throwdown with Bobby Flay, except way better. Here's how it goes:

Step 1:The night before Thanksgiving my mom and I will each make a pie.

Step 2: Thanksgiving day/ Judgement Day begins. Select family members will taste each pie, unaware of who made which one.

Step 3: I win.

We made several videos tonight documenting this monumental moment in McCain family history. I voted this the most entertaining video and therefore posted it; however, please don't judge my mom. Or tell her I posted this. Thanks.

I think my family is hilarious.

Reunited at last!

2008-11-25T23:18:00.010-07:00

I flew into STL tonight!! So of course Mitch, Abby and I all got in some quality bonding time around midnight. Here's the evidence:

Sistas. (Yes, this picture has been extremely edited. After spending a majority of my day either at an airport or on a plane, consider yourself lucky you don't have to see what I really looked like.)

Mitch tried to play it off like he didn't miss me quite as much as Abs did.

But, really, he did.

But I think I missed them the most. Obviously.

Oh how I missed them.

Just a little homesick

2008-11-02T22:04:00.013-07:00

There's only one bad thing about going to BYU for school - my family is far far away.

I have a brother, Mitch, who is 13 and a sister, Abby, who is 11 and I'm not there to see them grow up. They are my two favorite people in this world and I'm a little worried they aren't going to have very many memories with me in them. I talked to them on the phone today and they are both doing fabulous, as always. They're both crazy talented and the two most amazingly accomplished young people I know. I'm not sure how they're related to me because they're way cooler than I could ever hope to be. I also have two little cousins, Stella and Jake, who are two and one. If I could photograph the word "adorable," it would be a picture of them. Jake is talking now, apparently, and I gave my sister an assignment to have him saying my name by the time I go home for Thanksgiving. Oh, I can't wait. I think Halloween is just as much a family holiday as any other. I would so much rather have been with my family than anywhere else this past weekend.

Mitch just keeps getting more and more good looking. At 5'7 he is now taller than me. I used to push him around all the time like a good big sister does, and this summer as I was continuing my good sister habits, he felt the need to inform me that if he wanted to he could flip me over and slam me against the ground. The sad thing is, he's right. He's in 7th grade now and is the star football player. On top of that he wins student-of-the-month every month (no exaggeration) and has never once received a B in his all honors classes. I know, he's such a little jerk. I love him.

Abby is the one on the left. She was a dead football player for Halloween which is so atypical of her. She's usually something super cutesy and girly which just shows how much she is changing. She lives at the dance studio and has more talent than she can contain in her little body. You will never meet anyone like Abby. She's so full of personality and uniqueness that she still surprises me sometimes. I love her.

Ok, seriously. Are they not the two cutest little people you have ever seen? It amazes me how people so young can still have such strong individual personalities. I babysat them all summer and sometimes I just want to be back spending my days with them. There was never a dull moment. I love them.

Some more pictures to make me miss home a little more...

I promise I really am happy at BYU and this is definitely where I'm suppose to be. I think I just expect things to stay exactly the same at home while I'm gone but I have to remember that while I'm growing, changing and experiencing life, so is my family. I'm so blessed.

I love my family.

Wardrobe Malfunction

2008-10-18T00:30:00.003-06:00

While studying in the library, I decided to take a bathroom break. As I was washing my hands, I looked up in the mirror to make sure I didn't look like I had been studying all day, and low and behold I had two different earrings on. They are both flowers; however, completely different. One is cream and small while the other is yellow and big. Both of the people I told this story to said maybe no one told me because everyone thought I was "making a statement." What kind of statement do you make with two different earrings in your ears? The only thing that comes to mind is that you weren't awake when you got ready this morning. Which I wasn't. So I guess I was making the right statement. Now I know to not only check my backpack to make sure I have everything before I leave in the morning, but to check my ears as well.

L7 Weenieeee

2008-10-10T16:41:00.001-06:00

My dad emailed this to me today just to remind me how cool he thinks I am.

No wonder I have self-esteem issues.

Discoveries made in the library

2008-09-29T16:08:00.004-06:00

I've discovered why accountants are notorious for being boring. They can't help it. If my days were full of the stuff they do (which currently they are), I would have absolutely no personality plus I'm almost positive I would have scars on my wrists from where I cut myself. It's that bad. I don't know why I'm even learning this, I'm just going to end up hiring an accountant anyway. I'll be sure to bring them cookies and cards so they can have some form of happiness in their life besides balance sheets and statements of flowing cash.

I've also discovered why I have a blog. My theory is that I'm subconsciously protecting myself from becoming a politician in the future. Someone somewhere will dig this thing up and find some kind of something to hold against me, thus ruining my career and my reputation.

We'll see what another two hours spent in the library lead me to. This is what happens when I study "The Language of Business," aka: Accounting 200.

Meet Apt. 101

2008-09-22T23:41:00.017-06:00

Ok, I'm a little behind. Let's catch up.

Apartment 101 bonding day. We "hiked" Squaw Peak. And we looked good doing it.

Now for a quick synopsis into the life I am currently living and the people who make it worth living:

Meet Hannaha Rachel Allen. Currently, the only pictures I have of her are blurry; however, despite the blurriness, it is perfectly clear how awesome she truly is. Hannaha enjoys locking herself in her room, studying accounting, hiding my things, occasionally watching One Tree Hill, spying outside her balcony, watching musicals and people who have absolutely no sense of humor.

Next comes Nicole Michelle Terril. Who knew Nicole has so many hidden talents? Sewing, cooking homemade salty bagels, finding things in her not-so-clean room, cleaning bathrooms, playing the violin, clogging, saying quotable things and the list goes on. Nicole is always happy even when she shouldn't be, as evidenced in this photo.

Introducing "The Other Roommate." She doesn't sleep here, but she's always welcome. Amberber Rogers is a liar and a thief. Though you shouldn't believe anything she says, you're always allowed to laugh hysterically. And you will. Amberber is full of love and hate. At 5'4, she's quite the perfect little bundle of joy.

Driving in the Jeep always makes for a good time.

What a happy family we make.

Yes, I know I am only halfway through September, yet ever since the first week of school I continually tell myself I am already halfway through this semester. I'm not sure why, though, because I have high hopes for my junior year at BYU. Excellent new roommates, excellent new classes and an excellent new ward should all make for an excellent new semester.

Stay tuned.

Starting the day off right

2008-09-04T23:51:00.004-06:00

I'm not sure whether or not this story will translate as well in writing as it did when I acted it out for several people tonight, but I'm going to go for it anyway.

This morning as I was leaving my apartment complex headed for a full day of glorious schooling, I came to a point where I had to choose my path. I had two options: Go straight and then make a 90 degree turn onto the sidewalk OR cut through the gravel, jump off a 4 or 5 foot wall and then make my way to the same sidewalk, only a couple feet ahead. Obviously the ladder of the two is the quickest and most fun. Since I am a wall-jumping veteran and had safely landed the day before off the same wall, I had no fear. So I jumped. (Please try your hardest to picture this in your head with my poor description) As I landed, my knees buckled. The top half of my body was now far ahead of my feet, so each foot began making several tiny, awkward steps forward trying to catch up. I lost all control by this point and was simply trying not to crash completely into the gravel. As I descended closer and closer to the ground, trying to regain my balance, my overloaded backpack went up over my head. I was going so fast that my flip-flops had no traction on the gravel and now not only could I not control my body, I couldn't see anything except my backpack in front of my face. Finally I stopped, hands spread out, feet oddly positioned in a way I could never do on purpose, backpack literally in my face, and me so close to the ground I probably looked like I was actually laying on the ground. Here's the best part. Like anyone else would do in this situation, I quickly jumped up and pretended like I was fine and nothing happened. As I turned around to see if anyone saw my mess of a jump, I saw a boy who was walking not far behind me before. He glanced over the wall, and obviously having seen my previous display, made a sharp left and decided to take the long way. I now take credit for saving his life, or at least protecting him from a limb broken in several places. He obviously would not have recovered from a jump of that stature as easily as I. Ha.

I just wish someone would have been there to laugh with me. It's no fun laughing at yourself alone.

Straight Up

2008-08-25T14:24:00.005-06:00

Today while I was driving in the car with my mom, the blast from the past song "No Such Thing" by John Mayer came on and for the first time I realized how genius those lyrics are. I felt like saying, yeah John you're right, there is no such thing as "the real world" and yeah, I do want to run through the halls of my high school and scream at the top of my lungs. Before that song was just a catchy tune but now I'm thinking of incorporating it into the sound track of my life. Preach on John, preach on. (Though I still think the song "Say" is incredibly redundant and that you are regressing towards the label "man whore.")

In respect to the "real world," this is where my desire to be musically inclined accelerates. I would love to join the list of artists making a statement with their guitars and quick-witted lyrics regarding the "real world" fallacy. As far as I'm concerned, I am already in the "real world" and I've lived in it a full twenty years now. Yeah, ok, maybe I'm not financially independent yet and maybe I'm completely naive when it comes to politics, the stock market and trusting mechanics, but I'm still not convinced those are the ingredients that mix together to define the "real world." I babysat a two and a one year old all summer and that seemed more like reality than anything I've ever watched on CNN or Fox News. Oh, and "reality" television? Come on. I think the show entitled "The Real World" proves my point. So yeah, Matchbox 20 I do wish the "real world" would just stop hassling me because unless a "fake world" exists, I don't want to hear it. And yes, from now on the "real world" will always be put into quotation marks.

You can't put your arms around a memory

2008-08-21T21:39:00.005-06:00

I've been thinking a lot about something lately. A few years ago when I was having a difficult time understanding why I was struggling with something so much, my friend, CJ Lotz said, "Sometimes living hurts, but it beats the hell out of living numbly." I know that's true, but is it really true?

Just as our words cannot be neutral, neither can our experiences. What do you do when you don't want to re-live something because you know it will never be as good, but you also don't want to move forward because you don't want to forget it? And is there a limit to how many memories our brains can hold at one time? Does one memorable moment automatically replace another? Do I have to sacrifice my memories in order to get more? For some reason I have this scenario in my mind of me saying, "I'll give you one fourth grade slumber party in exchange for my upcoming camping trip," followed by a man with horn-rimmed glasses and the book of my life squinting his eyes whilst flipping pages back and forth then saying, "Throw in that senior year karaoke night and you've got a deal." That's not right.

Plus, if I can't store all of these memories in my brain, then I am forced to document them elsewhere. Ok. That's great. If I was the one responsible for recording the Second Coming it would probably go like this, "It was really dark. Then really light. Then Christ came and it was really cool. He's awesome." When you have the vocabulary of a fifth grader, it's difficult to convey any speck of emotion. In my creative writing class last semester, my professor shared this line from a girl's paper used to describe her character: "Her vocabulary was as bad as, like, whatever." I sympathize and empathize.

It's depressing thinking about all the good memories I can't think about anymore because they're forgotten. That's why I'm starting to believe that living numb is the only way to go. If we don't know what we're missing, we aren't missing anything.

Side note: There's a reason why this blog is entitled "Conversation With Myself." I am very well aware I couldn't pay someone to have this conversation with me.

Back and better than ever

2008-08-12T22:20:00.028-06:00

I have returned. Not only am I a changed woman, I am completely cultured and significantly better looking than I was before. I am glowing with dehydration and am sporting the flip flop tan line across my feet. Tourist at its finest right here, baby.

Okay, time to be serious. Saying that Europe was an experience of a lifetime is lame but the only way I can think of to adequately describe five weeks of newness. You know you're a bad writer when cliches are your main channel of expression. Actually, I knew I was a bad writer when every other word in my journal was either "amazing" or "so cool." Anyway, it's time for some European highlights in no particular order:

Loch Ness: Not only is it a sea monster, it's an actual loch (similar to lake, but completely different). Who knew? I didn't. But if there's one thing I learned in Europe, it's that I'm completely uneducated and ignorant to the world I claim to live in. I sat and over looked Loch Ness for a good thirty minutes and thought that even if I did have all the power and creativity there was to offer, I could never make something this beautiful.

Gelato: Have you had any? Until you've plunged into your first lick, you cannot accurately say you've experienced pure bliss. Two scoops two times a day is what got me through 110 degree Rome. Whatever you do, don't die a gelato virgin.

Holy Frickin Bastille Day: Yes, France has an equivalent fourth of July celebration and we happened upon it. Sitting directly under the Eiffel Tower, watching the most amazing fireworks show of my life with classical music in the background was definitely monumental in my short, pathetic 20 years; however, getting back on the Metro after the show was like reliving the Titanic (even though I didn't live it the first time but I feel Jack and Rose justified the emotions well). I'm talking women and children only. It was intense and sweaty.

Jumping off a 30 foot platform into Lake Geneva: Yes, I did it. Yes, it was cold. Yes, it was totally worth it. Geneva is beautiful and I'm going back. I swear their sky is better than ours.

Getting my backpack stolen in London: It happened. Passport, ID, money, social security card, camera, journal, water bottle - gone. That is why all of the photos on this entry are pirated from people on my trip. Truthfully, Heavenly Father took care of me through other people and without this, my Europe experience would have been completely different. So, yes, I'm grateful it happened. Even though I think the word grateful is entirely overused sometimes, this time gratitude is the only word to capture my reaction. Along with a little frustrated and a tiny bit angry.

Segways in Salzburg: I can't believe Austria was my first time being introduced to segways. Um, hello? Why walk when you can segway? The best part was Ashely flying by me screaming, "Whoa! Whoa! Whoaaaaa!" And then jumping off just before her segway crashed into a stone wall. I was scared at the time, but looking back literally makes me laugh out loud. If those segways are anything, it's durable. When I'm old and rich my first purchase will be a segway.

Bath: Who knew it even existed. Oh, right, not me because I'm uneducated and ignorant. It's in England and is the most picturesque town I've ever seen. It's what I really imagined Europe to be like.

Birthday by the Seine River: This was my best night in Europe. A group of friends surprised me with french bread, cheese, ginger ale and a similar to Martinelli's drink right by the river at night. Picture this - I'm in Paris, by a river lit up at night next to a beautiful stone bridge with candles stolen from a famous French cathedral being sung "Happy Birthday to You" by some of the coolest people in the world. Plus I got a french barrett. What a perfect way to enter your twenties.

T9: Also known as "Team 9" or the coolest group of 9 globetrotters ever. I hung out with the same nine people for almost all of the trip and five weeks was not enough. While the days were busy with sight seeing and travel, the nights were the memory makers. Love circles, making wishes in fountains, stuffing ourselves with crepes and gelato, loser pictures, planning picnics by the river - that's the Europe I'll remember.

The four person bike in Rome: We had some extra time before a museum reservation, so the four of us rented a bike-like contraption and off-roaded down a few rocky hills that probably weren't in the bikes comfort zone. But it was fun and we have no regrets whatsoever.

"Hiking" the Matterhorn: We sat and ate lunch at a restaurant that was literally right next to the Matterhorn. Who does that? Oh, we do.

Paragliding in the Alps: Yep. I did it. Adrenaline rush? No. Freaking sweet experience that I'll hopefully never forget? Yes.

River rafting in Lauterbrunnen: Once again, I'm not sure why this was the first time I've done something this incredible. The river was a level three which was good enough for me. We even got to jump out and float down it for a while. Douggy, our rafting guide from New Zealand, made it all worthwhile.

The infamous sock fight with Ashley: You have to be careful who you get your facts from. Just know that mine is the true story. Too much went down to type all of it so here's the cliff note version: While doing laundry in Switzerland, somehow our director's socks got mixed in with my clothes. I threw the socks off our bed, Ashley got mad because I made an "executive decision" without her, the next thing I hear is Ashley say, "Uh, yeah. I'm gonna do it" followed by her pouncing on me while shoving the socks in my face, I then threw water in her face, she threw my pillow off the bed, I took the comforter with me and decided to sleep on the floor, she threw a fit about that, I got back on the bed at her request, she threw my pillow off again, we fought about who would get the pillow until neither of us did and we both went to sleep angry while I remained pillowless. Then apparently I woke up and got my pillow and Ashley asked me what I would do if she would were to throw it off again (remember this is around four o'clock in the morning and Ashley can still too easily summon her evilness) to which I replied with a moan-like scream or something. This fight will most likely forever remain a sensitive subject and may halter our friendship from ever reaching it's full potential. Was it worth it? Probably.

Smelly bus rides: The bus is where it all went down. Mafia, excellent conversation, starvation, logistics, Study Abroad Trivia, quality time with The Office and Arrested Development, would you rather, I have never, sweet Caroline. You name it, it happened on The Elbo Bus.

My apologies, but this list isn't even close to complete. I've got plenty more to add and hopefully some more pictures, too. The greatest thing I was taught in Europe is that people are what make the experiences worth it. There are good, interesting and fascinating people everywhere you go and as long as you find them or they find you, all of your efforts will be returned to you one hundredfold at least. You know a memory is good when simply thinking about it makes you laugh, makes you cry, makes you mad, makes you feel any emotion at all. Europe is full of good memories for me.

See you in 5 weeks

2008-06-30T18:38:00.003-06:00

Quick update: I leave tomorrow for my study abroad trip in Europe.

I will be adventuring across Scotland, England, The Netherlands, France, Germany, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland and Italy for five weeks. And fyi: I'll be in Paris for my 20th birthday. Darn.

So, hopefully I will return a changed woman. If not, I will at least return with the Italian man Brooke asked me for.

What a beautiful day

2008-06-18T11:23:00.004-06:00

YESTERDAY WAS BEAUTIFUL! 80 degrees of perfection with clear blue skies and a cool breeze. So I took advantage of this abnormal for St. Louis summer day with the following agenda:

Laying outside reading (it was a business book for one of my online classes, but the weather made up for the slow read).
Lunch at St. Louis Bread Co. The chicken strawberry poppy seed something or other summer salad provided a fitting taste to the perfect weather.
An afternoon at the pool. I balanced my hours with a mix of reading and people watching. Quite entertaining.
A delicious dinner of grilled chicken, corn on the cob, asparagus and rice. A typical summer meal.
To work it off, my mom and I went to Castlewood Park, a top ten favorite of mine, and hiked the three mile trail. The matching couple a couple yards in front of us and the gay couple trailing us added a little humor to the climb.
When we got home, my little sister had a sleep-over party planned out for my brother and me. The ceremonies began traditionally with a ribbon cutting at the bottom of the stairs. Next came the game of "Guess Who" some would recognize from The Office where a note card is put on your forehead and everyone gives you hints to help you guess who you are (I was Johnny Depp, then Paula Abdul, then Elmo). Then came "Name that Star" where Mitch and I competed to name the celebrity under the paper first (I won). Last was "Murder" where each of us drew a paper out of a bag telling us either "murderer" or "sorry". It continues with the murderer killing people with his or her winks. With three people, the murderer (me) didn't get away with much. After our intense games we were starving, of course, so Abby moved us on to the snack table loaded with each of our favorites plus some odd additions: dove dark chocolate, Reese's pieces, jolly ranchers, nerds, craisins, chocolate chips, cookies and lemonade. It was a random assortment of our pantry spread out elegantly on doilies. Following snacks we played a little ping-pong, and then ended the evening with the movie Be Kind Rewind to which we all fell asleep to (because it was late, not boring). Abby is a talented party planner/thrower.

I love summer.

Friday the 13th

2008-06-13T21:43:00.006-06:00

Don't tell the Cardinals, but I think I'm bad luck. The first game I went to this summer we lost 13-2. Tonight against the Phillie's we lost 20-2. Ouch. It would be different if that were normal, but it's not. Good thing we only paid 10 dollars for those seats.

The best part about the night was the sky.

And pregame warm ups.

And Mitch sitting all by himself.

We went with everyone from Mitch's baseball team. They are all too cute and amazing little baseball players. I got my nachos supreme and even had a few sips of Abby's chocolate shake so I can't complain. Baseball games are always fun no matter who wins.

(I sound like an official loser now)

Cupcake Nation

2008-06-06T18:00:00.012-06:00

It seems that fairly recently America has developed an obsession with cupcakes. Am I right? They're everywhere. St. Louis has followed suit, so today me, my mom, Abby and Mitch all went downtown to try this specialty cupcake place that every one's crazy about.

I find humor in the name "cupcake bar." If you don't drink alcohol, don't worry, there's still a bar for you. I have a feeling Jilly may be LDS.

My mom chose "Velvet Praline." She seemed happy with her decision. I think the cream cheese frosting was the icing on the cake for her (haha, I love witticism).

Now, before you think I'm a bad sister for posting this picture, I want to inform you that this is exactly how he opted to have his picture taken. Mitch chose "Chocolate Thunder." With it's dark chocolate filling, it was by far the best decision of the batch. Luckily he shared. What a good little brother.

This lonely little cupcake represents Abby since she refused to have her picture taken because, "it's just a cupcake." She chose some pink, frilly one called "Missy Licious." Judging by the name, it sounds like Miss Abby and this cupcake have a lot in common. I didn't try it, but the butter cream frosting was all the rage.

After you stop laughing because my head is twelve times larger than my body in this picture, you can know that I chose "The Bee Sting." It was vanilla and lemon. Very tasty.

I will admit that I enjoyed the "cupcake bar," though I'm not quite sure I understand the cupcake fad yet. But why not? Cupcakes are fun and yummy, so go ahead and charge five dollars each. Just give it a cute name and it'll be worth it.

If you would like to learn more or perhaps visit Jilly's you can go here.

That which we call a rose

2008-06-02T23:30:00.016-06:00

My sister had her big dance recital this past weekend. Unfortunately, she got sick and couldn't perform in her duet, something she's worked hard for all year. Good tip for the future: flowers are a simple remedy for bummed out little girls.

It's good to be home

2008-06-01T21:37:00.008-06:00

I've been home over a month now; however, every one knows that "home" consists of people, places, memories, feelings, etc. rather than an actual house, correct?

Recent "home" officiators:

1. The park swings: Almost every amazing conversation I've had with CJ Lotz, high school best friend and copy editor, has occurred while swinging at night on park swings. Different park, different swings, same CJ. Highly needed.

2. Shakespeare in the Park: Every summer at Forest Park in downtown St. Louis there is a free production of a Shakespeare play near the art museum. This year was Richard III. I went with some friends I haven't seen in years. Perfect weather, fun people, okay play. Best part, "Magic Jon" before the play. I'm still trying to figure out his invisible card trick.

3. Cardz game: The only way you can truly officially be back in St. Louis again is at a Cardinals game. We lost 13-2 and got dumped on by 10 trillion gallons of rain, but my best friend/best man, Brook Boyer, and her family were there so it was a perfect night.

4. Barney's BBQ: My first job and the only BBQ worth eating. It's literally a little hut on the side of the road that you can smell for miles. They have the best BBQ on this planet. Don't listen to anyone from Tennessee regarding the matter, they don't know anything. I recommend the ribs first, followed by the famous home-made pumpkin cake.

Yet to be completed:

1. Castlewood Park: The greatest place on earth.

2. Driving the back roads with the Jeep top down: This is only successful when done with the right person. (Although gas is now $3.88 so there might be a little less adventures on wheels this summer)

3. The lake: The only proven cure for St. Louis humidity.

Of course there are other minor, but still important, things like burgers on the grill, Mitch's baseball games, St. Louis Bread Co (the original Panera), teaching primary, late movie nights with the siblings, familiar faces in unexpected places, walking my dog, spring thunderstorms, etc. I think it's healthy I'm only here a few months out of the year. That way I learn to appreciate my roots. Some things, usually the best things, are only found at home.

Who I hang out with these days

2008-05-27T22:59:00.012-06:00

I think I've finally found my crowd.

Graham, 8

Cole, 7

Ty, 5

Soon to be famous quotes from tonight's babysitting adventure:

While playing the game 500 (for those of you who have not yet had the privilege to play 500, someone throws a ball and shouts a number of points while the other players scramble to catch it, eventually one of them reaches 500 points and then becomes the thrower and the cycle continues...we play this every time I babysit on my request)

Graham: "This is more fun than killing a rattle snake!"

While me, Cole and Graham argue over who would win - the actual goblet of fire or the "big snake" in the other Harry Potter movie

Graham: "DO YOU EVEN KNOW ANYTHING???"

While watching an educational television show (those are the only kinds of shows I let my babysitees watch)

Ty: "Are werewolves real?

Graham and Cole together: "No."

Ty: "Phew, I'm glad that."

I've babysat these boys since they were babies and there has yet to be a dull moment.

Correction

2008-05-24T18:50:00.003-06:00

I got a little excited in my last blog and didn't speak the whole truth. It turns out Pujols broke a pitcher's nose and a catcher's foot all in the same inning not the same hit. He's just not as cool as I thought. Maybe if he took out all the infielders as he rounded the bases I would be more impressed. But I won't give up on you yet Pujols. There's a whole team of LA Dodgers to put on the DL this weekend.

If you want to read up on this and check my facts go here.

One day, you'll stand up on you're own

2008-05-22T22:13:00.010-06:00

If there is one thing I've learned since being home it's this... when you have nothing to do, you get nothing done. Words of Wisdom by Caitlin McCain. Coming to stores near you.

Man, whoever is reading this right now, I really wish you could see my teeth. I went to the dentist today to get them cleaned and now they are literally blinding everyone with their whiteness. Seriously. If there's one thing I excel in, it's teeth hygiene. I've never had a cavity and my dentist always makes me feel so good when I go visit him because he tells me how wonderful my teeth are. At least I can die knowing I've succeeded in something, right? I wish I could go to the dentist more than twice a year, just for a little confidence boost.

I would also like to address this blog to all of America when I say... DAVID COOK DESERVED TO WIN. Because he rocks literally and figuratively. And clearly he and I would make beautiful babies. So, here's to you David Cook, rock on.

I saw the new Indiana Jones movie tonight. Since I haven't seen the other three movies all I can compare it with is the show at Disney World and, honestly, I think the show wins. I don't know though. I may have to see it again to fully comprehend it... I'm one of those people who doesn't get most movies the first time around so by round two my opinion usually changes. With the exception of Pirates 2 and 3 and Spider Man 3. I think I understood those even less the third time.

One of my probably top ten favorite things is when you are listening to a song you've listened to for years and suddenly you have an epiphany and you finally get it. The pieces come together, it all makes sense and the song and the world both take on a whole new meaning. Someone somewhere has to know what I'm talking about here. For example, the song Innocent by Our Lady Peace.

Here's the real lyrics to the first verse:

Oh, johnny wishes he was famous
Spends his time alone in the basement
With Lennon and Cobain and
A guitar and a stereo

Here's what I thought they were:

Oh, johnny wishes he was famous
Spends his time alone in the basement
With a linen and cocaine
A guitar and a stereo

... I guess I thought Johnny was a druggy.

Here's the words to the next verse:

Oh, I dreamed of losing faith and what she knows
And some music hits on the foreclose
Thinks of surgery and a new nose
And the galleries of war
And while she wishes she was a dancer
And that shed never heard of cancer
She wishes God would give her some answers
And make her feel beautiful

Here's what I thought...

Oh, Gina's losing faith in what she knows
And some music takes all of her clothes
Thinks of surgery and a new nose
And recovery's a war
And while she wishes she was a dancer
And that shed never heard of cancer
She wishes God would give her some answers
And make her feel beautiful

..see, I thought how they talked about Johnny in the first verse, now they were talking about Gina who wants to be dancer but she can't because she has cancer and she just wants to feel beautiful. It made sense to me, though I was never really sure where the music stealing her clothes part came from. But after listening to it in the car today, I realized I had it all wrong. And now it makes a lot more sense. I guess we really are all innocent. Words of Wisdom by Our Lady Peace.

PS - The title of my blog is from that song, so it's not completely out of left field.
PPS - Speaking of left field, I would just like to say that Albert Pujols is my hero. In one hit he broke a pitcher's nose, scored a run, and broke a catcher's foot. Now that takes skill. Go Cardz.

Ok. Now I'm done.

Is this Mr. McCain?

2008-05-14T22:24:00.004-06:00

My mom was immature today and she clearly enjoyed it.

-- Here's the story --

My dad lost his cell phone and was convinced he threw it into the recycling this morning on accident when he took it out to the curb (which is believable). In fact, he was so convinced that he took my cell phone with him to my brother's baseball game tonight and began making plans to get a new one. He had this big important business call to make with his cell so he was pretty bummed. Anyway, while he was at the game, surprise surprise my mom finds his cell phone and she wants me to call him on it to give him the good news. Me, taking advantage of my nickname as the "pot-stirrer" in the family, told her to call and act like she was from the recycling place and tell him they found his phone. I knew there was no way she would do it. But I was wrong. Instead, she got all jumpy and giddy like she was in 7th grade again. She kept saying "Oh my gosh, Caitlin I can't do it! I'm going to laugh!!" So I went away to hide and listen while she did it.

--Here's the conversation--

Mom: (in deep, obviously fake, man voice) "Is this Mr. McCain?"

Dad: "Why yes it is!" --> this is where my mom starts to lose her "cool" because she thought there was no way my dad would buy it.

Mom: (in fake, deep man voice that's quickly becoming more and more like my mom's voice) "This is Waste Management and we just located your cell phone." --> immediately after she holds the phone away so she can unsuccessfully try to hold in her laugh.

Dad: laughs, "I can't believe I threw my cell phone away!"

Mom: (back in normal voice) "Ron! It's meee!"

Dad: "Ah, I can't believe I fell for that."

Then we all laughed. For the rest of the night my mom was on a high. She felt so rebellious pulling off a prank call. I'm beginning to think that maybe it was her first prank call ever. Aw, my mommy's growing up.

Funny side note... the other day in the car, the song "I'm Bringing Sexy Back" by Justin Timberlake came on and my dad started singing along thinking he was cool or something but instead he sang, "I'm taking sexy back..." Apparently someone stole sexy from my dad and he is now reclaiming it.

I am a professional procrastinator

2008-04-03T12:15:00.008-06:00

Great new find...

Check out Pandora.com - you can create your own radio station according to what songs you like. You just type in an artist or a song you like and in seconds a station will form revolving around your "personal style." Sweet, huh? I thought so. Go listen now.

There's so much pressure when it comes to choosing a title.

2008-03-24T00:24:00.000-06:00

I have officially joined the world of bloggers. I'm not exactly sure what that means, except maybe one of two options:

Option 1: I am a computer nerd with no friends to listen to me tell my story, so instead I have to succumb to typing my story and hope it doesn't get lost in the complicated world of cyberspace.

Option 2: I am way behind the rest of the world and it's about time I give into the future methods of journals and wasting time.

Either way it's not looking good for me. But life is good and I think I'm ok with being a slow friendless loser that's stuck in the past.