January 7, 2012

An Evening With One Tree Hill

**Warning: This blog is extremely long and I probably ramble a lot because it's pretty late...Sorry in advance! No spoilers for season premiere, unless you want to know.**

I'm finally getting a chance to blog about the INCREDIBLE time I had last night. Words can't describe just how excited I was. My cousin and I headed down earlier to hang out and make sure we had plenty of time before the event actually started. After a little misunderstanding with the freeway at first, we had lunch at Paty's in Toluca Lake. We sat outside on the patio, and it was so warm outside...I cannot believe it's only January! It felt great though; perfect weather for LA. 

We then decided to head to the Arclight Theater on Sunset, not realizing it was only about eight minutes away. Needless to say, we had plenty of time to spare. We walked around the theater, then decided to check out Amoeba Music, because I've always wanted to go in there. They have just about everything you can imagine. They sell all kinds of music; old and new, and all different kinds of genres. We walked up the street a little to see if there was anything else but quickly realized there really wasn't. We listened to some crazy CD Carissa bought for a few minutes in her car, then decided to get something to drink at Jack In The Box. We came back to the little quad area by the theater, and hung around just taking some time to relax. While I was messing around on my phone, a few guys walked by and Carissa said "Oh my gosh there's Joe Jonas!" I glanced up, and thinking she was joking, said, "Oh yeah it is!" And then it dawned on me that it really was him. So, naturally I jumped up and said "We have to go get a picture," and eventually I talked Carissa into it, so we tracked him down. I asked him for a picture, and he seemed hesitant at first (we probably caught him off guard), but he said, "Yeah sure!" I tried to hit the camera app on my phone, but somehow I'd ended up hitting something else and all the apps were shaking (like when you're trying to delete one). I apologized to Joe, and he was like "Oh no, you're fine" or something like that. One of his friends took it of the three of us, and Carissa asked what they were up to when we were done. They had just gotten done working out at the gym. It was really short talking to him, and it all happened so fast, but we were totally freaking out. Maybe next time I'll see Nick ;) hee hee. I guess I shouldn't have been so excited to see Joe after everything that happened with Taylor...butttttt....It would've been really hard not to. And I'm so glad Carissa spotted him. That'll teach me not to be so intrigued with my phone!




Us and Joe Jonas
We still had awhile to wait, but we ended up meeting some ladies who were waiting around for the One Tree Hill event to start. They shared some stories of the events they had been to like the Despicable Me and Breaking Dawn premiere and after party. Also visiting Forks, WA, and Georgia for filming locations of The Vampire Diaries and the Twilight saga. They were a lot of fun. Pretty soon, everyone started lining up for the event, and anticipation was building. We talked to some fellow fans, and that was exciting. It was cool sharing stories about the characters and the show itself, and how people relate to it.

They let us in a few minutes to 7; checked us in, gave us our passes and we were good to go. It was finally OFFICIAL. We headed upstairs where they said to go. There were posters of the cast that was going to be there hanging up on the wall (I tried to get pictures of them, but they didn't come out very well at all), and tables with popcorn and soda. We got some of that, and headed inside to get a seat. There was a section close to the screen reserved for the cast, and a little further back it was reserved for Mark Schwann and the rest of the writers. We ended up getting the first row right behind them. We had more time to wait before the cast showed up, so I started talking to the girl sitting to my left, who was really awesome. We seemed to have a lot in common with our majors of communications and everything. She's also going to be in episode 5 of One Tree Hill this upcoming season, so she shared some of her experience with me and my cousin, like spending time on the River Court. Shortly after, the cast filed in and it was time for the show to start.




Everyone waved, smiled, and said hi as they found their seats, and the lights dimmed. Chelsea Kane, who is Stephen Colletti's girlfriend was also there because she plays an important role this season. All of a sudden "One Tree Hill" appeared on the screen and you hear Nathan's voice narrating...totally got chills and teared up at that point. It was cool knowing that they were all in the same room, in fact just rows away from all of us watching the same exact thing. It's definitely going to be an amazing season! After the show ended, the cast headed down to the front for the Q&A session. It was so surreal hearing such a dynamic cast talking about their characters, a show they've worked on for nine years, and Mark Schwann's side of things. He's seriously a genius! And they should've given everyone in the theater kleenex before we went in LOL. The things that Sophia and Joy had to say to each other were so touching. Joy said that Haley always had so many great speeches to give to Brooke during their years on the show, and that as Joy she meant every word telling Sophia, even if they were fighting or whatever other behind the scenes things were going on...in that moment she still meant them, and how they were true friends. Sophia talking about flashback moments as they filmed this one last scene in the high school (which they'll show a little more this season I believe), hearing from fans in the audience how much this show has meant to them and how they related to the story lines. Sophia mentioned there would be a really touching scene between her and Haley; she didn't want to give too much away, but said that we would know what she was talking about when it came down to it. She also shared her days of directing and what a great experience it was for her and how she grew so much because of it. Mark joked about how on top of things she was and was so prepared, etc. (the audience laughed). Mark was like, "What's going on?" She said, "They're laughing because they've seen my binder." I had actually just watched that DVD bonus feature the other night. I was inspired by it, honestly LOL. She has such a vision for what she wants to do.
The cast shared so many of their favorite moments like Paul having to kiss Joy for the 20s episode they did (also written by Chad Michael Murray), the cracker scene for Shantel, Rob, and Jackson, the school shooting for Mark I believe (critics had been saying how they hadn't done a show that really made a difference or mattered kind of thing in the last season, and this was the one they had been making while discussing shows that were in jeopardy of not being picked up). That was also the very first full episode of One Tree Hill that I ever watched, and it definitely stuck with me. It was a little too intense and honest for me at the time, but now, that's what made me fall in love with it...the honesty and realness that came through the screen. While all these other shows are trying to sugar coat it...this one is telling you how life really is. There are wonderful moments that take your breath away and then there are others that bring nothing but darkness, and how you can rise above it.
At one point during the Q&A someone shouted, "What happened to Peyton?", to which Tyler Hilton replied, "I actually just ran into Hillarie this morning...She was at The Aroma Cafe, so it's funny that you mentioned that." He also shared a story of when they were filming the Honeygrove prom episode they hung out at some kid's house, and he played some of his music for them, and they were all impressed with him. Now, he has a recording contract and is getting ready to tour with Taylor Swift or something; pretty cool!
Jackson talked about his "Cuss jar". Anytime someone says a bad word around him, they'll owe him money. Chad apparently owes him about 100$ LOL. Sophia said the F word, and just before, she'd told him to cover his ears, but that she'd pay him the 20$ she owed him. When he was asked about his plans after OTH he said, "I'm going back to school!" He's so bashful and adorable. Probably the most likable kid on the planet!
Paul seems very strong and solemn. One of his funniest moments was when he was sort of zoning out a little, and they were like "Paul, are you okay?" or something like that...He says "Oh, I'm just enjoying myself over here." I don't know there was just something funny about that! HAHA.
I guess I could go on and on about all these little things that they shared. If you get a chance, look up some of the videos from last night. You won't be sorry, I promise :) I have a feeling this season is going to be very different from all the others. They've described it as being very "dark." Not sure quite exactly what it is, but I'm especially anxious for all the Haley/Nathan story lines. AH!!! And I will still be watching when 8:00 on Wednesday rolls around. YAY! The cast wrapped up after about an hour or so of answering questions, while Mark Schwann stuck around a few more minutes to give away some season 8 DVD's.




The tall guy standing up a few inches above the crowd would be Paul! 
Stephen Colletti 
Picture Shantel tweeted...I'm somewhere to the right...probably about where it cuts off LOL.
When we came out of the theater, Joy was leaving; some fans asked for an autograph or picture, but you could tell she was in a hurry, because she was with her husband; she said she was really sorry she couldn't, but thanked them for the support. Just around the corner, there was a mob of people waiting around because Paul and Stephen were signing autographs and taking pictures with a bunch of fans. I really wanted to meet "Dan Scott." I've heard nothing but nice things about him...so pretty much the complete opposite of his character. He seems so soft, like a teddy bear almost. Pretty soon, security started clearing everyone out, and it was getting late anyway so we headed home. Well, my GPS had us going on a wild goose chase through LA, which is not the place to do that at. It took us THE LONGEST way possible to get to the freeway. Eventually, after about 45 minutes or so, we found it...and I could breathe again ;). It was all part of the adventure. Plus, I think everyone should get "lost" in LA at some point in their life! LOL.
"I'm on my way...home sweet home..."
We got home a little after 1 or so. I filled my mom in on our adventures a little bit, then decided I really needed to go to bed. And I'm gonna try to post more pictures I have from OTH in LA from my camera, even though they aren't very good at all. And it's 2:20 now, and I'm feeling exhausted again. It's gonna be a long, but fun weekend in LA. I'll be sure to blog about it :). This is a night I will never forget!


Favorite quote of the night @ Arclight:
“It’s very rare that you have real, vulnerable moments with your friends, where you just look at them and tell them exactly what you think about them and how much they mean to you. And one of the amazing opportunities I feel that I’ve had over the seasons of the show is, Haley gives all these great speeches, to Brooke. And it’s always ‘You have the biggest heart, you’re so compassionate’ and she’s all of these amazing words that she gets to say and every time I’ve ever had that, I’ve meant every word, from Joy to Sophia.” 


Here are some great videos I found online from the event! 
http://www.twitvid.com/BC6XC



That's all for now,
Shelby <3

January 4, 2012

Starbucks With The Girls


Hillary's First Instagram Photo


Tonight was so much fun! We got together at our usual Starbucks to discuss plans for the Jesus Culture convention we want to go to coming up next month in Redding, CA. We were trying to figure out how much everything is going to cost, where to stay, when to buy tickets, etc. And, of course, we talked a little about everything in between, all while laughing and joking. It was so much fun. We also ran into mine and Viviyan's high school History teacher. LOL.

On the way home, Viviyan and I had another good heart to hear. There were a lot of "God Moments" and realizations coming together as we talked. It's a little nerve wracking waiting for the things we want to happen, but we just have to trust God and know that He has our best interest at heart. Everything happens for a reason.

It was a really wonderful night :)

With Love,
Shelby <3

Welp, I'm off to bed pretty soon. Gotta wake up earlier to head to LA with my cousin tomorrow!! AHHHHHHHHHHHHH :DDDDD

The Gals of One Tree Hill












I love Sophia Bush and Bethany Joy Galeotti's style on and off screen! They always just look so effortlessly beautiful. It makes the rest of us have to work that much harder ;) LOL. Seriously, though!

That's all for now,
Shelby

Outfit Decisions




So these are the choices I have for the "Evening With One Tree Hill" tomorrow and Team True Beauty event Saturday night. I believe I have figured out what I'm going to be wearing to each, but I change my mind so frequently I could wake up tomorrow and completely change my mind. LOL.

Anyway...Stay tuned!
~Shelby~

Favorite Episodes of One Tree Hill

I thought that in honor of 'An Evening With One Tree Hill' tomorrow night, I would post some of my favorite episodes from each season.

Season 1:


1x3-Are You True?
1x6-Every Night Is Another Story
1x8-The Search For Something More
1x16-The First Cut Is The Deepest
1x19-How Can You Be Sure?
1x22-The Games That Play Us

Season 2:


2x1-The Desperate Kingdom of Love
2x2-Truth Doesn't Make A Noise
2x5-I Will Dare
2x8-Truth, Bitter Truth
2x9-The Trick Is To Keep Breathing
2x13-The Hero Dies In This One
2x19-I'm Wide Awake, It's Morning
2x20-Lifetime Piling Up
2x23-The Leavers Dance

Season 3:
This is probably my favorite season ever of the show!

3x3-First Day On A Brand New Planet
3x4-An Attempt To Tip The Scales
3x6-Locked Hearts and Hand Grenades
3x7- Champagne For My Real Friends, Real Pain For My Sham Friends
3x12-I've Got Dreams To Remember
3x13-The Wind That Blew My Heart Away
3x14-All Tomorrow's Parties
3x15-Just Watch The Fireworks
3x18-When It Isn't Like It Should Be
3x21-Over the Hills and Far Away

Season 4:


4x5-I Love You, But I've Chosen Darkness
4x9-Some You Give Away
4x13-Pictures Of You
4x14-Sad Songs For Dirty Lovers
4x15-You Call It Madness, But I Call It Love
4x17- It Gets the Worst At Night
4x18-The Runaway Found
4x19-Ashes of Dreams You Let Die
4x21-All Of A Sudden I Miss Everyone

Season 5:
My second favorite season; SUPER close to season 3 though, because I loved that even though the show took a time jump, and the characters were supposed to be older and be in different places in their lives, they remained true to who they were and the show itself.

5x1-4 Years, 6 Months, 2 Days
5x3-My Way Home Is Through You
5x5-I Forgot to Remember to Forget
5x9-For Tonight You're Only Here To Know
5x10- Running To Stand Still
5x14- What Do You Go Home To?
5x18-What Comes After The Blues

Season 6:


6x3-Get Cape. Wear Cape. Fly.
6x5-You've Dug Your Own Grave, Now Lie In It
6x7-Messin With The Kid
6x8-Our Life Is Not A Movie or Maybe
6x10-Even Fairytale Characters Would Be Jealous
6x11- We Three (My Echo, My Shadow and Me)
6x14- A Hand To Take Hold of The Scene
6x16- Screenwriter's Blues
6x19-Letting Go
6x20-I Would For You
6x21- A Kiss To Build A Dream On
6x23-Forever and Almost Always

Season 7:
7x2-What Are You Willing To Lose?
7x3-Hold My Hand As I Am Lowered
7x5-Your Cheatin Heart
7x6-Deep Ocean Vast Sea
7x8-I Just Died In Your Arms Tonight
7x13- Weeks Go By Like Days
7x14- Family Affair
7x15- Don't You Forget About Me
7x16-My Attendance Is Bad, But My Intentions Are Good
7x17- At The Bottom of Everything
7x18- The Last Day Of Our Acquaintance
7x 21- What's In The Ground Belongs To You
7x22- Almost Everything I Wish I'd Said the Last Time I Saw You

Season 8:


8x6-Not Afraid
8x7-Luck Be A Lady
8x9-Between Raising Hell and Amazing Grace
8x10-Lists, Plans
8x11- Darkness on the Edge of Town
8x12-The Drinks We Drank Last Night
8x13- The Other Half of Me
8x14- Holding Out For A Hero
8x15-Valentine's Day Is Over
8x17- The Smoker You Drink, The Player You Get
8x18- The Quiet Little Voices
8x20-The Man Who Sailed Around His Soul
8x22- This Is My House, This Is My Home

One Tree Hill is like a fine wine...it just gets better with age. While most shows are losing that zest for why people fell in love with it, One Tree Hill just keeps reminding of us of those things. Sure, they aren't in high school anymore and there are a lot of new situations and characters in the equation, but that's what makes it so great. No matter what kind of story line is thrown their way, they are able to tackle it with grace and dignity. And that brings us to season 9....


Judging by the promo video they've played for it, I'm sure we will all be on the edge of our seats waiting and wondering about what's going to happen. They're not going to give us a peaceful last season, that's for sure...but if they did, it wouldn't be Tree Hill, would it? ;)

Here's a bonus for ya! Last night, I was looking through some old school papers and tests, and found this current event I'd done in Jr. Hi on Chad Michael Murray and Sophia Bush's wedding. HA! Some things never change...

That's all for now,
Shelby
xoxox

January 3, 2012

It's Gonna Be A One Tree Hill Weekend!!!!!!!!

This morning I woke up to my alarm, "It's My Life", because I had planned on going bike riding. Well, then morning comes around, and I'm usually not up for it like I was the night before. I checked my phone and there was nothing exciting, so I think I fell back to sleep for a few minutes. A little later, I woke up again, and this time when I checked my phone there was something EXTREMELY exciting on there....I had been informed that I won two passes to "An Evening With One Tree Hill" in Hollywood this Thursday. I'll get to see the cast, watch the season 9 premiere with them, and see a Q&A with the cast. I am beyond excited! It says we get to "meet them", but I'm not exactly sure if that's just getting up close and personal with them, or if we really get to MEET them. Either way, I'm so excited. I'm sure it will be quite an adventure.


Saturday, I'm going to an event for Team True Beauty! It's at some fancy looking place in LA; there's going to be a dinner, speakers, meet and greet, and concert. I'm going with my mom (she's such a trooper)! I'm so excited to get dressed up, see everyone there, and see exactly what it's all about. I have a feeling it's going to be a really wonderful night. I've never gone to something so formal before, other than like Prom, but even that wasn't much of a big deal at our school.


I can't believe the start to this year already...WHOA. Thank you, Lord, for everything. Because I am nothing without Him. This is all His doing. I will be sure to blog about both events :D

With love,
Shelby
xoxox

January 2, 2012

"California dreamin on such a winter's day..."

I never realized I lived in the great state of California until a couple years ago. No, I don't mean I need a geography lesson. I guess I just never realized how many other people dream of coming out to California, because I've always been here. Then, when we started going to Nashville several years ago, and we'd tell people we were from California, they couldn't believe it; they'd say it was their dream to come out here someday. I guess what I'm trying to say is that I took it for granted before, and never stopped to think about how great the state really is, and there are still so many places I don't think I've seen yet. The US as a whole is a really amazing place, and there are so many wonderful states I'd love to visit still.

Today was one of those days I was grateful to be in California. It was absolutely gorgeous! It was in the 70s and it's January! I couldn't believe it. My parents and I had gone out to lunch and ran to Target, then Dad and I went on a bike ride as soon as we got home. I was wearing shorts and a T-shirt; it felt great. It was warm and wonderful. I can't think of a better way to spend an afternoon.



Tonight, I'm off to Bible study with the girls and just hanging out.  :) This year is off to a fabulous start!

With love,
Shelby
xoxox

Another Short Quiz

Yesterday afternoon, while I was bored and sitting around the house, I decided to answer some more questions out of that "4,000 Questions for getting to know anyone and everyone" book. It really does help pass the time.

Who had the most positive influence on you as a child?
I would say my parents, obviously. My grandma. And LeAnn Rimes.

What playground activities did you like best?
I wasn't much of a fan when it came to activities like that. I mainly pretended to I was on a TV show, or I'd make my friends pretend they were "Mary-Kate and Ashley" with me! Haha. I did like capture the flag, though.

Five childhood accomplishments.
1. Having the lead role in my 6th grade Christmas play
2. Classroom representative in 3rd grade
3. Getting a 4.0 in elementary school
4. Going out for the basketball team, even though I stunk at it
5. Talent shows

In one word, describe yourself as a child.
Shy or timid

What did you discover about yourself in high school?
I don't think it was until after high school that I really thought about it. I was a lot more capable of things than I gave myself credit for.

What is something you never did in high school but wish you would have done?
Probably softball or soccer, I always thought that would have been fun! Also, I thought about the debate team, because I'm great at arguing.

If you could choose, would you:

  • Live your childhood over again? Yeah, it was a great one. I have a lot of wonderful memories from it.
  • Have ever grown up in a different decade or era? Yes! I think about that a lot...Probably the 20s or 80s.
  • Have been more competitive as a kid? Maybe. I think that might have helped me develop a thicker skin.
  • Have learned more in the classroom of life than in school? I think I've done that already. I might have tried the opposite this time around.
  • Have been a leader? I would have been more confident and outspoken in the leadership positions that I had.
  • Take back something you did? Nah, everything happens for a reason.
  • Have been nicer to your parents? Totally.
  • Worked harder in school? I was always a good student most of my life, but once I got to high school, I slacked off a little more when things didn't come as easily.
  • Have made more friends? I had plenty of friends. I guess I just would have gotten together with them more.
  • Have hade more belongings? No, I always had way too many things...and still do.
What year in school would you do over again?
I'd like to do my Senior year over again. It was a really hard year for me personally and academically, and I had a really bad attitude about it. I had so many plans and expectations for that year, but most of them didn't turn out the way I had planned. 

Did you make the most of your high school years?
Yes and no. I was involved in a lot, had a lot of friends, and had fun. But, at the same time, I think I could have made them more enjoyable. If I could go back at the age I am now, I think I would be different...But, I guess that's why you go during your teen years.

Who is the funniest person in your family?
Gosh...my family is all hilarious in their own way, especially when all of us are together. I'd have to say my Uncle Bob, though, because most of the time he's not really trying to be funny when he says things, which makes us laugh that much harder.

How do you feel about having relatives stay with you?
I love it! As a kid, I always wanted a "Full House", so this way I sort of get to live that dream out when everyone stays with us. It gives me that warm and fuzzy feeling.

What relative did you or do you get along with?
I get along with all of my family members. I have a different relationship with each of them, but I love them all just the same :)

What games or songs did your family play or sing while traveling in the car?
We'd play the license plate game or the horse game, where you call out "zip, zip" or "bury your horses." Usually, we'd just sing along to the radio or whatever teeny bopper CD I'd make my parents listen to.

What were your most memorable experiences with your grandparents?
I have a lot of wonderful memories with my grandparents; most of the days in my childhood were spent with them. With my dad's mom it was me putting on LeAnn Rimes concerts for her, us making crafts together, watching Days of Our Lives, and her singing to me. With my mom's parents, it was swimming in the summer, grandma's snacks, having prayer time in the morning after breakfast, and that every season at their house was turned into an occasion.

What sights, smells, or sounds do you remember from your grandparents houses?
What I remember most vividly is Christmastime at my grandparents' house (Mom's parents). My grandma's favorite time of the year was Christmas, as was mine. She always had all kinds of little toys, animatronics, fake snow, an elaborate nativity set up, Christmas trees, and candy dishes available for the kids. It would usually smell like pine trees, warm apple spice something, or orange. It was filled with the sounds of her and grandpa talking, the TV playing one of my favorite shows or the news, or sometimes music. 

What does true friendship mean?
True friends are real gems to find these days. To me, the bond is as deep as family. I'm an only child, so I consider most of my friends to be like my siblings, because they've been with me for years, and they've helped shape me probably just as much as my parents have in some ways. The people that are in my life now are the ones I know I can count on. True friendship means being honest with one another, praying for and with each other, , having the same values, and knowing you can depend on that person in good or bad times. 

How have friends enriched your life?
In just about every way possible. I try to treat my friendships as delicately as possible, because I haven't always had people that I could count on, and friendships tend to be a little on the fickle sides these days. Now, I feel like I have more love than I know what to do with. I have four best friends that have been with me through it all: Heartbreak, loss of a loved one, other friends bailing, rants, raves, and the amazing times in between. They're always there for me, and I know I can count on them. I can trust them with anything, and they've always got my back. 

What friend has taught you an important lesson about life? 
All of my friends have different personalities and perspectives, so I've learned a lot from each of them, depending on the situation. Most recently, I'd have to say it would be from my friends Febe, Viviyan and Ceci. I see the relationship they have with God, and how they are so full of joy. They spread His love wherever they go, and they've just really been encouraging me in my walk with the Lord. It has opened my eyes to just how much I need Him and want a better relationship with Him.

Have you ever performed in public and did you enjoy it?
I've performed in public quite a few times, and I love it. There's just something about it that makes me feel like that's where I belong., whether it's speaking, acting, or singing. There's such a rush in those few minutes before you walk out on stage and the bright lights hit your face, and the music begins. It symbolizes the start of something really incredible.

What is your current opinion of TV?
I think it's alright! Of course, I have my favorite TV shows that I think are incredible, but as a whole I don't think it's what it used to be. TV shows used to teach morals and talk about life lessons (Boy Meets World, Wonder Years) and I feel like they've strayed away from that. As I've watched One Tree Hill, I feel like it's one of the last shows that really goes beneath the surface. It shows the depth of mankind, good and bad, the hardships, and the triumphs. I just wish writers would go back to caring about people and telling a story, rather than for entertainment value.

Cutesy Love Quotes

"People are so cynical towards falling in love, because it really is everything it's cracked up to be."

"A guy out there was meant to be the love of your life, your best friend, your soul mate, the one you can tell your dreams to! He'll brush the hair out of your eyes, send you flowers when you least expect it. He'll stare at you during the movies even though he paid 8$ to see it. He'll call to say goodnight or just cause he is missing you. He'll look in your eyes and tell you you're the most beautiful girl in the world, and for the first time in your life, you'll believe it." ~Nicholas Sparks~ THIS.

"The thing about falling in love is if you pick the right person you never have to hit the ground."

"Some people act like they don't need love, like it's an ego thing, but it's not ego, it's fear of being hurt."

"A heartbreak is a blessing from God. It's just his way of letting you realize he saved you from the wrong one."

"An open heart doesn't make you vulnerable to intruders; it makes you vulnerable because you know you can survive. You can let go of what is upsetting, really hurtful, really tough, and allow something beautiful and new to enter. If your heart is open, it can never stay broken."

"He's not your prince charming if he doesn't make sure you know that you're his princess." ~Demi Lovato~

I used to be really worried about the future and finding the one. But, the moment I gave it over to God, and I mean really gave it over to Him...I had a sense of peace. Everything is going to work out in His timing, and I don't have to have everything figured out. And that's the biggest load off; Now I can really enjoy the ride. I know whoever the guy is is going to be the one God has sent just for me; he will love me and protect me, and won't do anything to hurt me. ~Me~

Letting Go

I've noticed that ever since I stopped trying to act like I'm some big "mystery, or closed book that no one can read, I've been a lot happier. The more open you are with your successes and failures, the more you can relate to people and help them. I feel like I've finally been able to open up more than I ever have. I think you're so much better off that way. It doesn't make you vulnerable, it just makes you honest. I'm not hiding who I am anymore.

More than ever before, I've been letting go of anger, and it feels like a weight has been lifted from my chest. I'm starting to see things for what they really are, rather than seeing everything so bitterly. I see the beauty in things and can try to look for the bright side, rather than letting something completely ruin my day. For the first time, I'm really hearing God's plans for my life instead of just my own. My pride doesn't get in the way like it used to. That's the best feeling in the world, and this year all I want is to be more like Christ, for my joy to be infectious, and to inspire those around me. I'm letting go, and letting God.

That's all,
Shelby
xoxox

This Year Is Going To Be An Adventure

I was looking through some old journals from the summer, where I had written down one of my favorite scenes from Gilmore Girls. It was what had inspired me to start faithfully blogging again, because I wanted to capture my moments, and share them with everyone, and somehow possibly inspire someone out there.

Anyway, Rory and Lorelai are going on a road trip. Rory wants to have every moment planned out, and Lorelai just wants to see where they end up.

Rory: We have to figure out where we're going!
Lorelai: No, we don't! The point of this is to be spontaneous, to drive some place we've never been and never expected to be.
Rory: Sounds risky!
Lorelai: Sounds exciting.
Rory: Serendipity has never been kind to us.
Lorelai: We're being guided by fate.

That's exactly how I feel this year is going to be. I have no plans for this year, and for the first time, I feel okay with it. But, instead of being guided by "fate", I'm being guided by God and the fact of knowing that He has a plan for my life. That comforts me.

That's all for now,
Shelby
xoxox

"Someday My Prince Will Come..."

These words were made most famous by Snow White, and they echoed my mind a lot as a little girl, because I loved the movie. I had a fascination with Disney princesses. And if we're being honest, what girl at age five doesn't?

As little girls, we tend to believe that we're going to marry Princes and ride off into the sunset on his white horse, and live happily ever after. Everything will be rainbows and daisies, and we'll talk to little woodland creatures. That's not always the way the real world works, though, unfortunately. The princes aren't always so charming; in fact, most of the time they can be pretty deceiving And the bad guys are also harder to spot. But, we fall for their smooth talking ways, because we get caught up in the "romance."

The older we get, the more cynical we become to love, because we've seen more of what the world has to offer us. We become bitter, because we don't fall in love with the first guy we meet or it's not like the movies. No, it's not like the movies. I'm learning that true love is a lot deeper than what we see in those chick flicks that I'm such a huge fan of. And maybe that has been my problem when I've started to like someone... The expectations of that guy could never measure up to some character who doesn't exist.

Now, I don't want to find a love like in the movies or my favorite fictional couple on TV; I want something that resembles God's love. Something pure, real, and everlasting. It saddens me to see the divorce rates and the unhappy couples today. It's discouraging that people don't work at their relationships, because they take time and effort, and we all want to take the easy way out. But, love isn't easy. When I look at other couples' failed marriages, falling in love tends to scare me, like why even bother? The fact that I might fall in love with someone, but then it doesn't work out like I'd planned, seems pretty risky.

When I get married, I want to say our vows with forever in mind, otherwise I don't see a point in going through with it. Marriage is nothing to be taken lightly; it is a commitment, but it shouldn't be looked at as saying goodbye to your life, it should be the start of an adventure together, and something to look forward to. I just want to know that when we say "I Do", it really will be in sickness and in health, til do us part...forever and ever, amen.

Seeing Courageous tonight reminded me that each girl deserves to wait for her prince, just not in the sense that Hollywood portrays it. Real men love God, and will be courageous enough to take a stand in their households; to love their wives, children, provide for the household, and to be the protector of the family based on Biblical teaching. They will raise their kids the way God wants them to, and there are plenty of verses on just how to do that.

I don't know if I've met the man I'm going to marry yet. Maybe he's the crush I had in 5th grade, maybe he's just an acquaintance at the moment... I have no idea. But, I know that I've been praying for him since I was at least in Jr. Hi, now. I know that my friends and I have had countless conversations and daydreams about the guys we're going to marry, and Nick Jonas is starting to look like a farther off dream now ;) LOL. In all seriousness though, this whole dating/marriage thing isn't something I've ever just jumped into. And when I meet the guy I'm supposed to end up with, I'll be glad that I haven't had a lot of boyfriends or a crazy history with anyone, and it'll mean so much more.

I have a feeling that this year will be the year that I find that someone special. Or like I said, maybe I already have and all these little moments are starting to add up to God's big plan. Either way, I'll continue to pray for him and the future husbands of my close girl friends. We are not settling!!

True love is out there, it's just a matter of finding a real man of God to make us believe in forever.

1 Corinthians 13.

That's all for now,
Shelby
Xoxox

P.S I might be quoting all kinds of quotes in the next few days. My friends and I were pretty excited after the movie tonight! Haha.

January 1, 2012

New Year's Weekend

Yesterday was a really interesting way to spend the last day of 2011. I ended up really sick for most of the afternoon, and in bed. I was miserable; I could barely move, and wasn't so sure that I'd be up for ringing in the New Year. I listened to some music and watched a little One Tree Hill, then my parents brought me home some Chicken Noodle soup from Denny's. Thanks to that, and some prayers from my wonderful friends, I felt A LOT better, just in time for the family to come over. My family's hilarious! We just ate and watched Dick Clark's Rockin New Years Eve, but I wouldn't have had it any other way.

A quote from New Year's Eve, "Before we pop the champagne and celebrate the New Year, we stop to reflect on the year that has gone by. To remember both our triumphs and our missteps-our promises made, and broken. The times we opened ourselves up to great adventures-or closed ourselves down, for fear of getting hurt. Because that's what New Year's is all about: getting another chance. A chance to forgive, to do better, to do more, to give more, to love more. And to stop worrying about 'what if' and start embracing what would be. So when the ball drops at midnight-and it will drop-let's remember to be nice to each other, kind to each other. And not just tonight, but all year long."















It's December 31st, 2011, the clock hits 12:00 a.m. All of a sudden, it's 2011 again and you have the chance to redo everything. Would you? My answer would be, not at all. 2011 was the year of no regrets. 

My New Year's Day was pretty awesome as well! We went to brunch with the family at Buck Owen's Crystal Palace, and I was able to spend some time with my cousin. We took family pictures, laughed at each other, and had a great time. The rest of the afternoon, we were pretty lazy and I got bored very quickly. I read a little, text some people, got on the computer, etc. My dad and uncle also informed me of something potentially very exciting for me this year. I will be crossing my fingers and praying about it. Then, my friend Ceci texted me and the rest of the girls to see if we were up for seeing the movie, "Courageous." I am SO glad I went. I have so many thoughts on that, though, so that is going to need a separate blog.
My plate!

My uncle's waffles covered in whipped cream..HA

Buck Owens


My and my dad

Me and my cousin

My momma and I

The family!

Me and Buck!

That's all for now,
Shelby
xoxox