tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38799773337131360142024-03-04T23:53:00.123-08:00The Right To A Beautiful LifeShelby Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06268445001108188260noreply@blogger.comBlogger1104125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879977333713136014.post-24251713616719598962015-01-16T05:43:00.001-08:002015-01-16T05:43:44.898-08:00Classy<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><div style='width:600px;margin:0 auto'><div style='position:relative;'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/classy/set?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger&id=146344467' target='_blank'><img border='0' height='449' title='Classy' src='http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/bUeHNyX3Mq90MxVRxgRyxw/cid/146344467/id/9vZTsIWd5BGVRxR8Xi33Qg/size/c600x449.jpg' alt='Classy' width='600'/></a></div></div><br/><div style='text-align:center'><small><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/classy/set?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger&id=146344467' target='_blank'>Classy</a> by <a href='http://shelbyn92.polyvore.com/?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger' target='_blank'>shelbyn92</a> featuring <a href='http://www.polyvore.com/moon_and_lola/shop?brand=Moon+and+Lola' target='_blank'>Moon and Lola</a></small></div><div style='width:600px;margin:0 auto'><small><div style='padding-top:16px'><p style='clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger&id=121791115' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'><img height='50' style='border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;' src='http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/121791115.jpg' hspace='4' align='left' width='50'/></a><div style='margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger&id=121791115' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>White top</a><br/>$23 - 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<li><b>Grab the book nearest to you, turn to page 18, and find line 4.</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
"To honor their wishes for your personal welfare?" - "A Gift To Remember"</div>
<ul>
<li><b>Stretch your left arm out as far as you can, What can you touch?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
The chair next to me.</div>
<ul>
<li><b>Before you started this survey, what were you doing?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Proofreading a story I wrote awhile back and listening to Spotify.</div>
<ul>
<li><b>What is the last thing you watched on TV?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
There's some cheesy Christmas movie on in the background that my mom's watching right now. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Without looking, guess what time it is</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
6:30?</div>
<ul>
<li><b>Now look at the clock. What is the actual time?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Oops! I was wrong. It's 6:47.</div>
<ul>
<li><b>With the exception of the computer, what can you hear?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
The TV. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>When did you last step outside? What were you doing?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
I ran errands earlier this morning/afternoon, so I was only outside for a short time. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Did you dream last night?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Yes, I did. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Do you remember your dreams?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
For the most part, I do. But, sometimes I go through phases. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>When did you last laugh?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
This afternoon/night while my mom and I have been preparing things for tomorrow. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Do you remember why / at what?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Not really. Now that I'm officially done with the quarter, I feel like I've been laughing at the stupidest things. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What is on the walls of the room you are in?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
A Thomas Kinkade painting</div>
<ul>
<li><b>Seen anything weird lately?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Hmm... Not that I can think of. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What do you think of this quiz?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
I'm starting to wonder why I wanted to do one of these. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What is the last film you saw?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
In theaters? "The Best of Me" -- Twice. HA!</div>
<ul>
<li><b>If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Nashville. Hands down! </div>
<ul>
<li><b>If you became a multi-millionaire overnight, what would you buy?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
A ticket to New York New Year's Eve (along with tickets for my family and friends). Some new clothes from Anthropologie. A Go-Pro. A VIP ticket to see Taylor Swift...</div>
<ul>
<li><b>Tell me something about you that most people don't know.</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Umm... I feel like my life is a pretty open book, so there's not much that people don't know. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>If you could change one thing about the world, regardless of guilt or politics, what would you do?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
That it would be easier to get Taylor Swift tickets. JK! I guess just that we could all be less judgmental and treat each other with more respect. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Do you like to dance?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
I do!!</div>
<ul>
<li><b>Would you ever consider living abroad?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Possibly for a short time, especially if it was in Australia or London. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Does your name make any interesting anagrams?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
I don't think so! </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Who made the last incoming call on your phone?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
My mom. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What is the last thing you downloaded onto your computer?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
I think I downloaded the new Selena Gomez song from iTunes! </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Last time you swam in a pool?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
It was probably back in May or June with some friends. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Type of music you like most?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Country. But, I also really love my pop jams! </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Type of music you dislike most?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Rap/screamo</div>
<ul>
<li><b>Are you listening to music right now?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Yup! </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What color is your bedroom carpet?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Plain brown...But, I have a red shaggy rug on top of it. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>If you could change something about your home, without worry about expense or mess, what would you do?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
I would add a really nice cozy sitting area with a fireplace and a place for all of my books. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What was the last thing you bought?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Chocolate chips and pumpkin for the cookies I made earlier. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Have you ever ridden on a motorbike?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Nope. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Would you go bungee jumping or sky diving?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
I would actually really like to go sky diving. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Do you have a garden?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
No, but I have always wanted one! </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Do you really know all the words to your national anthem?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
YUP! </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What is the first thing you think of when you wake up in the morning?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Usually I immediately start thinking of what my schedule looks like for the day and everything I have to do. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>If you could eat lunch with one famous person, who would it be?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Oooh...Tough question. I love so many people. Taylor Swift, Sophia Bush, Amy Poehler, Justin Timberlake, Steve Carrell, John Krasinski, Lady Antebellum, Drew Barrymore, Tom Hanks, Lauren Graham, Monica Potter. Carrie Underwood. Can I just invite everyone?</div>
<ul>
<li><b>Who sent the last text message you received?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
From my aunt... Pictures of her cats. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Which store would you choose to max out your credit card? </b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Anthropologie or Urban Outfitters. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What time is bed time?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Whenever I feel like it. But, usually around 2 a.m.</div>
<ul>
<li><b>Have you ever been in a beauty pageant?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
I have not. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>How many tattoos do you have?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
I don't have any. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>If you don't have any, have you ever thought of getting one?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Possibly. But, I'd probably chicken out. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What did you do for your last birthday?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
I went down near the Golden Globes and watched all the celebrities drive to the red carpet. I also had breakfast at midnight with two of my best friends. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Do you carry a donor card?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
No. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Who was the last person you ate dinner with?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
My parents. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Is the glass half empty or half full? </b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Depends on when you talk to me. But, it tends to be half empty. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What's the farthest-away place you've been?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Washington D.C.??</div>
<ul>
<li><b>When's the last time you ate a homegrown tomato?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Never?</div>
<ul>
<li><b>Have you ever won a trophy?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Yeah, I've won a couple. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Are you a good cook?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
I never cook. I would love to take a cooking class to get inspired, though. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Do you know how to pump your own gas?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
....I don't. That's embarrassing. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>If you could meet any one person (from history or currently alive), who would it be? </b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Steve Carrell..Or Walt Disney and Shirley Temple, if they were still here. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Have you ever had to wear a uniform to school?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
In jr. hi...So, that was fun. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What's under your bed? </b></li>
</ul>
<div>
A whole bunch of crap. Board games, books, random papers...All of the stuff that I don't want anyone else to see. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Do you believe in love at first sight?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
LOVE at first sight? Not really... I think it's really just that initial attraction. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Think fast, what do you like right now?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Sweet tea! </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Where were you on Valentine's day?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
I was home...And then I went out to dinner with my parents. I'm so exciting, I know! </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What time do you get up?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
It depends on the day...If I have class, then it's about 8:15. If I don't have class, then I sleep until 10 or 11, because why not?</div>
<ul>
<li><b>What was the name of your first pet?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Puppy Lady. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Who is the second to last person to call you?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
I guess I missed a FaceTime from my friend, Cassandra</div>
<ul>
<li><b>Is there anything going on this weekend?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Not that I know of. I guess the Christmas season will officially be here, so we'll probably be decorating. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>How are you feeling right now?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Tired and my head hurts. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What do you think about the most?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Love and Nashville.</div>
<ul>
<li><b>If you had A Big Win in the Lottery, how long would you wait to tell people?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
As long as I knew it was legit, I wouldn't wait long at all. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Who would you tell first?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Uh, my parents or best friend. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Do you sing in the shower?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Yeah, usually if no one is home! </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What do you do most when you are bored?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
I look up blogs, shop online or just read... </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What do you do for a living?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Just going to school full-time right now</div>
<ul>
<li><b>If you could have any job, what would you want to do/be?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
I'd love to work at a magazine or be a lifestyle blogger, where I get a chance to talk to people who do interesting things, whether musicians, actors or entrepreneurs. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>Where would you retire to?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Hmm..I'd say one of the Carolinas. They are so beautiful and peaceful. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What are your best physical features?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
My eyes probably. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What are your best characteristics?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
I'm loyal, trustworthy, </div>
<ul>
<li><b>If you could go anywhere in the world on vacation where would you go?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
New York, Nashville, Australia or London. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What kind of books do you like to read?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Nicholas Sparks or chick lit, I suppose.</div>
<ul>
<li><b>What is your favorite time of the day?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
I love mornings, but ironically enough, I can never seem to wake up early enough to just enjoy them or sit on the patio to take it all in. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What are you reading now? </b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Amy Poehler's "Yes Please" and "A Gift To Remember"</div>
<ul>
<li><b>Are you a morning person or a night owl?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Night Owl, but I can get up when I need to. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What is your best childhood memory?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
I'd say all of the times that I got to spend with my grandparents. They were so wonderful to me - Taking me on little field trips around town, buying my toys, playing with me, watching me perform, helping me make crafts. I feel like I was always able to fully explore my imagination with them because they were so accepting and encouraging of it. When they passed away, I was so thankful for all of those memories.</div>
<ul>
<li><b>Any new and exciting things that you would like to share?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
Well, I'll probably listen to *NSYNC's Christmas album tonight, so there's that. Christmas is coming soon... 2015 is going to be incredible, because I'm extremely optimistic, annnnndd that's about it. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What is most important in life? </b></li>
</ul>
<div>
God, family & friends, and helping others. </div>
<ul>
<li><b>What Inspires You?</b></li>
</ul>
<div>
I feel like I'm inspired by everything - The people that are in my life, going to school, visiting new cities, listening to music, coffee shops, sitting on my front porch, the beach, the mountains, reading blogs, watching YouTube, Taylor Swift.. There's something to be found everywhere. </div>
Shelby Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06268445001108188260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879977333713136014.post-67634426785027782242014-11-26T18:42:00.000-08:002014-11-26T18:42:22.975-08:00Another quarter come and gone<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiydmr-aNDWcapWEb1j-tQL0dd2jDlrA-gmI4PIVHavsAvZ1e-GksmNpmiFMDruDgmIVrXKj4JrtPgyrIuMx-35SzDw7MdGohrNqXHTIuxnUOU1TD-aQlwNgBEEYxZL_DT-LY-EknOe3Epd/s1600/Photo+on+11-26-14+at+6.27+PM.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiydmr-aNDWcapWEb1j-tQL0dd2jDlrA-gmI4PIVHavsAvZ1e-GksmNpmiFMDruDgmIVrXKj4JrtPgyrIuMx-35SzDw7MdGohrNqXHTIuxnUOU1TD-aQlwNgBEEYxZL_DT-LY-EknOe3Epd/s1600/Photo+on+11-26-14+at+6.27+PM.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Yesterday I officially wrapped up the fall quarter, which means I won't be going back to school until January. The holiday season is officially here, and I could not be more excited. It's time for baking, family, friends, Christmas music, lights and celebrating Jesus.<br />
<br />
This quarter was challenging in so many ways, more emotionally than anything. But, I survived and that's what matters, right? Now, I'm just praying that I passed all of my classes. Somehow this ended up being the hardest quarter and I was thinking it would be the easiest the entire time. HA! We had a lot going on with the newspaper - A lot of stories would come up at the last minute, and we had several new members we were training. I feel like I was exhausted and just kept trying to find the energy and motivation to do anything. Normally, I feel ready to go after the summer break, but this was a strange one, so I didn't feel rested up at all. I was moody and grouchy most of the time and didn't get as much sleep as I should have. I'm just glad it's DONE. Only two more quarters to go, and then I graduate. HALLELUJAH! But, then real life begins...So, I'm not sure<br />
<br />
Add in a disappointing crush, and you'd have a really great rom com. I often feel like my life is always a romantic comedy, just without the leading man, which is unfortunate sometimes. On the plus side, I have an incredible support system and people that have been around me throughout the whole thing. I'm SO thankful to each and every one of them. There's just usually a lot of wishful thinking on my part, but it's gotta be about trusting God's timing, instead of trying to plan it out myself.<br />
<br />
My cousin is getting married and so is one of my dearest friends, so I will be helping with planning for their weddings!! Ah! At least other people are having luck in that department haha!<br />
<br />
But, in the meantime... I ran some errands with my mom today, cleaned my room, made Taylor Swift's pumpkin chocolate chip cookies and helped her get a few other things ready for our Thanksgiving tomorrow. I'm listening to some Christmas music and getting in the festive mood. This is going to be a wonderful holiday season - GOOD ATTITUDES ALL AROUND. :D<br />
<br />
Okay, that's all for now. I need to go write some more and read some more..My creative juices are flowing.<br />
<br />
That's all for now,<br />
Shelby<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Shelby Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06268445001108188260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879977333713136014.post-63655400292033308572014-11-21T11:39:00.001-08:002014-11-21T11:39:43.536-08:00Thanksgiving Inspiration<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><div style='width:600px;margin:0 auto'><div style='position:relative;'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/thanksgiving_inspiration/set?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger&id=141034729' target='_blank'><img border='0' height='592' title='Thanksgiving Inspiration' src='http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/SBRxCnYVjppCYctORQUeQ/cid/141034729/id/rLYQJLZx5BGLu0vvqmAFrA/size/c600x592.jpg' alt='Thanksgiving Inspiration' width='600'/></a></div></div><br/><div style='text-align:center'><small><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/thanksgiving_inspiration/set?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger&id=141034729' target='_blank'>Thanksgiving Inspiration</a> by <a href='http://shelbyn92.polyvore.com/?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger' target='_blank'>shelbyn92</a> featuring <a href='http://www.polyvore.com/thanksgiving_home_decor/shop?query=thanksgiving+home+decor' target='_blank'>thanksgiving home decor</a></small></div><div style='width:600px;margin:0 auto'><small><div style='padding-top:16px'><p style='clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger&id=122703248' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'><img height='50' style='border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;' src='http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/122703248.jpg' hspace='4' align='left' width='50'/></a><div style='margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger&id=122703248' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Sweater</a><br/>customizedgirl.com<br/><br style='display:none'/></div></p><p style='clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger&id=119962669' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'><img height='50' style='border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;' src='http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/119962669.jpg' hspace='4' align='left' width='50'/></a><div style='margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger&id=119962669' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Nike pants</a><br/>$58 - 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How is this month passing off so quickly? How are we already halfway through this quarter? Although, that one I'm not complaining about so much. This is my last quarter as the Features Editor and the pace is so intense, I'm not going to lie. You'd think for this being my third quarter as an editor, things would be smooth sailing. But, like so many other things in life, there's always some obstacle that needs to be overcome or So many writers, so many stories, so many things that need art. Everything needs scheduling and planning. And I'm just going crazy.<br />
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It's also probably hard to believe because it doesn't feel like fall at all. It's just barely starting to cool down, and even then, it's pretty limited.<br />
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My head has been spinning with a million different things about school, life, crushes, etc.<br />
I haven't been feeling all that well lately.<br />
I've been working out with a trainer and friend, Athena.<br />
I've also been trying to take the pressure off myself a little bit more. I'm young. I need to enjoy it more.<br />
Went to Nashville and also got to hang out with Lady Antebellum.<br />
I covered "The Best of Me" premiere in Hollywood for Country Weekly, where I interviewed the stars, got to see the movie along with everyone else and went to the after party to see Lady A perform.<br />
I'm trying to keep up with homework and graduating and figuring out what I want to do after college.<br />
I've been trying to spend more time with my friends, even if it's just a lunch date here or movie there - I need to hold onto my friendships, especially the ones that I know without a shadow of a doubt that I can trust.<br />
My family has been visiting, which has been a TON of fun. We've eaten a lot and spent a lot of time together - Which has involved a lot of TV watching, laughing and looking at our iPads (we're a techie family..What can I say?)<br />
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Basically, I'm trying not to rush. It's easy to want to be done, because I'm annoyed with school and I'm getting major senioritis. But, when I really stop and think that these could be the last moments with the people I'm hanging out with, it reminds me to take a deep breath and to live a little. Everything doesn't have to be SO darn serious all the time. I need to learn to laugh a little more and love a little more, which I have been lately, and it has been paying off. My life has felt richer. When you speak your mind, when you do what YOU want to do, and because you want to do it...I don't know, something about it, just makes me feel SO FREE. That's a true blessing.<br />
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Some of these days have been dark. As incredible and awesome as they've been, there have been many restless nights and a lot of prayers sent to God over a variety of topics. But, I just keep reminding myself that the bigger the battle, the better the blessing will be in the end. I really can't complain right now, even when things are difficult, even when I just want to cry because of how DONE and over the day I am. I have a wonderful support system and I wonder daily how I would have made it this far without them. God never gives up on me and loves me unconditionally, even when I'm less than where I could be.<br />
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So, I'm just going to keep going. I'm going to be completely and 100% who I am, and if people don't like it, well, that's just too bad. It's kind of an empowering thing when people are trying to change you or want you to live your life this way or that, and you just keep on doing what you're doing. It bothers them a little, and that's okay.<br />
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That's all for now,<br />
Shelby<br />
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Shelby Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06268445001108188260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879977333713136014.post-84211131788271778752014-10-19T21:06:00.002-07:002014-10-19T21:06:32.744-07:00I'm #Blessed Part Two - "The Best of Me" Premiere<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For as long as I can remember, it has been a dream of mine to interview on the red carpet. I've been to several premieres as a fan, just hoping to catch a glimpse of the action or to meet a few of the stars. But, to be able to interview as an actual journalist for a publication still seemed so far away. I'm still in college, just hoping to find a decent job after I graduate. There's no glitz or glamour in my future. Until my mom, Lady Antebellum and Country Weekly stepped in and helped the dream come true a lot sooner than anticipated.<br />
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An experience like that is more than words, pictures or stories can ever say, but I've sure done my best to put the feeling of what it's like to have a dream come true like that.<br />
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I was terrified, but calm all at the same time - from the moment I found out, to the moment I checked in that night. I was racking my brain, trying to find questions, talking with family for inspiration and watching previous interviews with the stars about the film. I was trying to do everything that I possibly could to prepare.<br />
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The morning of the premiere, I took my time getting ready - Had some hot tea, reviewed my notes, then talked with the editor of Country Weekly about what to do that night. After that, I felt more at ease. I did my makeup, slipped into my dress and curled my hair, then it was time to go.<br />
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We stopped at the Walmart in Valencia to pick up the soundtrack to the movie, because our Walmart never seems to have new releases. Then, we cranked up the volume and listened to it on our drive to Los Angeles. I also read through the Zine Pak information guide, which was almost like a cheat sheet for the movie. So, I was brainstorming questions and tweaking things to ask. We made it to the Burbank area and decided to have lunch at Claim Jumper. Well, I haven't been eating that much and that day, my nerves were so shot...Needless to say, I didn't eat much. I had the shakes, my head was already pounding and I felt sick. I was just praying to have enough energy to make it through the rest of the night with so much excitement going on around me.<br />
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My mom and I made it to LA a lot quicker than we thought we would, so we had a bit of time to kill. I tried to check in, but apparently they weren't handing out passes just yet. There was a big mix up and I was starting to get a little worried, but trying to stay as calm as possible. Eventually, after walking back and forth and asking multiple people, I was able to get checked in and find my spot on the carpet. That's when the nerves started setting in. We took pictures on the red carpet and started chatting with some of the people around us, and I tried to review my notes as much as possible.<br />
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Soon, people were arriving and I started freaking out. I've done interviews, yes, and I've met plenty of stars over the years. But, doing the two together for an actual Hollywood premiere? HOLY COW!!! Obviously, the supporting actors and lesser knowns were showing up as the carpet opened, and suddenly, my mind was going blank about what to ask these people. I didn't get to look up everyone's biographies and I hadn't even heard of someone. But, suddenly, they're asking if I want to talk to someone and I hear myself say, 'sure.' I said a silent prayer, took a deep breath and soon, I was talking with many of the younger actors starring in the film, the composer of the movie's score and a few other random actors who just wanted to attend. I asked them about being in a Nicholas Sparks film, were they fans, filming in Louisiana and I found that they were all very easy to talk to and understanding. Everything I was saying felt so natural, and I knew that it was certainly a God thing. I really enjoyed getting to know a few new people and to hear their outlook on love. There was so much buzz on the carpet, but I was enjoying every second of it - lost in whatever conversation I was having.<br />
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The carpet had been going for awhile and had started to speed up. Now, all of the big names were arriving. I could see Lady Antebellum, Nicholas Sparks and others making their way through the sea of people. This was the real moment I had been waiting to. Lady Antebellum greeted my mom and I with hugs and smiles, and stayed awhile to chat. We talked about their new music, their opening act in the works for the tour and of course, what it was like to have their song in a Nicholas Sparks album. Hillary said she cried about 2/3 of the way through the movie, so I should have known then that it was going to be a tearjerker. It was so surreal that they actually knew my name and recognized me in a setting like that. But, there was no time for freaking out, nor was that the place to do it. So, I just kept looking forward to whoever I was chatting with next. </div>
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I talked with Nicholas Sparks about his writing and movies these days, as well as how important a soundtrack is to his movie and why there was so much country music on this particular one.</div>
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I talked with James Marsden about coming back for a Nicholas Sparks movie as the leading man, country music and his first love.</div>
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Michelle Monaghan and I bonded over being journalism majors and what it was like to work with James Marsden. </div>
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Liana Liberato told me what a dream it was to be an 18-year-old girl starring in a Nicholas Sparks movie. </div>
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The carpet then came to a close and everyone wandered inside to get free snacks and find their seats. I couldn't believe that I had just wrapped my first Hollywood red carpet as a reporter, and was about to watch a Nicholas Sparks film with the rest of the cast and crew. What in the world?!</div>
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We made our way inside and I was trying to catch my breath from all of the excitement. As we were walking upstairs to our seats, Nicholas Sparks was just hanging out on the steps, eating popcorn. This was my chance to get a real picture with him, so I stopped after a couple other girls stopped to talk to him. So, I got my picture and he told me what a great job I did on the carpet. That's when I really started pinching myself! </div>
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We grabbed some popcorn and a soda, then went to our seats. I get to my row and realize that James Marsden is standing a few seats down from me and is making his way back to the end of the aisle (where I'm standing). I had heard some others ask for a picture, so when he walked past me, I asked for one. He said he didn't have time to stop, but asked if he'd see me after. I told him I'd see him at the after party...And then I had to text my best friend about the encounter, while acting totally calm on the outside, like I do this every day. Pretty soon, the director, Nicholas Sparks and a few others gave a short talk about their role on the film and gave a formal introduction for what we were about to see.</div>
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Pretty soon, the movie started and everyone clapped as each name appeared on the screen. It was hard to believe that under the balcony, anyone and everyone was there. Let's just say, I should have listened when everyone said bring Kleenex, but I didn't. I thought, 'I'll be fine. It won't be that bad.' Oh, I was so wrong. Plus, I was just incredibly emotional after talking with everyone. It has action, a love story and it's not overly sappy, like some chick flicks, which makes it very believable. But, I was speechless and wiping my eyes with my buttery popcorn napkin, stinging my eyes even worse than the tears were. And then it was time to go to the after party. I was seriously in a daze.</div>
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We made it through the lobby and saw Charles Kelley leave, then started heading towards Club Nokia, as the celebrities were getting picked up in their fancy SUVs. Well, we ended up going a bit too far, and being that it's LA, there are multiple events happening on one street. We ended up at some Microsoft bash and realized we were in the wrong place. So, we wandered back across the street and found our way to the right place. We walked into the room - Fancy blue/purple lighting was glowing throughout and music was playing. People were mingling and eating, so my mom and I just sort of hung back for a few minutes, then walked around. The cast started arriving a bit later. Pretty soon, it was PACKED and we felt totally out of place. HA! But, I couldn't wait for Lady A to take the stage. </div>
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They sang a slew of hits and of course, "I Did With You," the movie's theme. I was singing and dancing along to every song. They are incredible performers who know how to have FUN while doing it. My love for them has grown even more and they continue to prove to me why they are my favorite group. </div>
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Not long after they sang, we had decided to leave when I spotted James Marsden in the VIP circle. The publicist lady that had been with him earlier when I asked actually spotted us and said they owed us a picture and let me walk down to the floor. After several people finished talking with him, I asked for a picture and he remembered me from upstairs. That was really exciting. As I was walking off, I remembered that I had wanted to try to get him to record a message to my best friend for her birthday, so he politely accepted and I was SO EXCITED.<br />
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It was getting later and I had an exam the next morning, so it was time to go. But, everything I could have hoped for had already happened. It was a magical night and I felt like twirling in my fancy dress. I just kept thinking, 'I could easily do this for a living,' as we wrapped up the night. I felt so proud of everything I did on the red carpet. Since then, sure, I've thought of more questions I could have asked or how I could have done things differently, but you don't know until you go through it the first time. Now, when I do my next red carpet, I'll be prepared and know how it works.<br />
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It was probably the greatest experience of my life and whenever I'm feeling discouraged, I think back to that night and how far I've come. I still have plenty to learn, but that was a big step in everything that I do in the future. I'm one step closer to living out my dreams. I feel like if I can survive something like that, I'm gonna be alright.<br />
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We listened to the soundtrack on the way home, gabbing about the movie and the stars; everything in between. I still couldn't get over the ending, but that's another story entirely. I was still wide awake and wanted to tell my dad about everything when we got home.<br />
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I'm still on a high from everything, and I'm not sure that I'll be coming down from it anytime soon!<br />
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That's all for now,<br />
Shelby :)<br />
<br />Shelby Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06268445001108188260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879977333713136014.post-6660218163026610322014-10-19T18:01:00.005-07:002014-10-19T18:01:59.465-07:00Nothin' but a heartbreak <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I've had my heart broken a few times, sure. That's just part of life. People have disappointed me. I haven't reached goals by a certain amount of time. I've lost loved ones. I've had my heart (somewhat) broken over relationships that didn't work out and I was sad or when feelings weren't returned when I thought the spark was there from the start. Yeah, I've cried myself to sleep at night a lot over a dream taking too long or wondering if it was going to happen at all.<br />
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But, I've never been in love. You know, the real love that people spend their whole lives trying to find. The thing people write songs and make movies about. And I don't know what it feels like to plan on forever with someone or to enjoy spending so much time with someone, only to have your feelings and heart stomped all over when it didn't work out.<br />
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In some ways, I kind of feel like I'm missing out. It seems like I've talked about this a million times before, but it's true. I don't miss anyone. If anything, I miss someone I've probably never met yet, wondering what kind of memories we'll create together. Will there ever come a point where he breaks my heart? Or will he just be the one who stays when no one else did? I just know a lot about daydreams and people not matching up to what scenario I've created in my mind. That has been the biggest heartbreak of all.<br />
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But, is it better to play it safe and not have your heart broken, while waiting to find that right guy? Or is it better to just take a chance (even if only on a daydream), and if it doesn't work out, well then at least you tried? I think it is. Maybe none of these have worked out in the past, but it doesn't mean it always has to be this way. I'm going to keep taking a chance. Either way, I know I'm going to be okay in the end, so where's bad?<br />
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That's all for now,<br />
Shelby<br />
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<br />Shelby Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06268445001108188260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879977333713136014.post-14110143588028820842014-10-16T18:14:00.000-07:002014-10-16T18:14:40.540-07:00Real Life Is better than the Fairytales<div style="text-align: center;">
<dl style="background-color: white; color: #252525; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22px; margin-bottom: 0.5em; margin-top: 0.2em; text-align: start;"><dd style="line-height: 1.5em; margin-bottom: 0.1em; margin-left: 1.6em; margin-right: 0px; text-align: center;"><i>"Once upon a time, happier ever after. The stories we tell are the stuff of dreams. Fairy tales don't come true. Reality is much stormier. Much murkier. Much scarier. Reality it’s so much more interesting than living happily ever after."</i></dd><div style="text-align: center;">
~Meredith Grey~</div>
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What do you do when reality turns out nothing like you imagined? Nothing like the pretty pictures you wrote about in great detail to your journal. Nothing like the daydreams you always had in your mind. Nothing like the discussions you had with your best friends for years.<br />
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I think most often in those moments, our lives can go one of two ways. I think sometimes the things you were dreaming end up being even better than you ever could have imagined. You can touch them, feel them, taste them, and oh, they are so much sweeter and so vibrant. It's more colorful than the fantasies, it's bigger than something you can explain on paper or even capture in a video. </div>
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Other times, it can break your heart (at least at first) when you see that God had a different plan for you. It makes you question your prayers. Should I have asked for this or that instead? I don't know about this new direction that I'm taking. Is this thing actually from God or is this just me getting ahead of myself? But, then later on you can often see that when that thing didn't happen, it was also a blessing in disguise. </div>
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There are a lot of things in my life that I keep moving forward with and praying for, but they're still big fat question marks in front of me. Usually, it has to do with my dreams of moving to Nashville and finding "the one" that I'm going to spend the rest of my life with. I don't take either of those lightly and are something that I consult the Creator of the Universe about a lot. I have all of these visions about how I think the rest of my life should go - I get <i>pretty </i>creative, so my daydreams are very specific, down to some of the smallest details. And while I know that God is a God of big dreams, I can't help but wonder if some of the sudden things that have found their way in the middle of my path are tests or truly meant for me right now. We always have free will, but I still believe in following a set plan that God has for me. Holding out for the absolute best, not just giving in because the waiting is getting to long. Or there's someone who's nice and is good to talk to, but you're a little lonely, and it seems harmless. But, maybe it's just the beginning of something that isn't meant for you.<br />
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Meredith Grey is spot on when she says that reality is so much more interesting than living happily ever after. Because you experience more pain in the real world and things aren't quite so one-dimensional. But, when the good things happen, you can rejoice so much more than those princesses in the castles ever could; they didn't know what else was out there.<br />
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Keeping with the theme of unexpected things and love.... I often wonder about how the meeting with my future husband is going to go. I'm hoping for that initial attraction and spark, like I've heard so many stories about. That's the way I've always imagined it. I mean, is love meant to be confusing, where you're questioning whether this is right? Constantly wondering whether you're missing the signs or going down a different path than God had planned for you.<br />
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*Sigh*<br />
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That's all for now,<br />
Shelby<br />
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Shelby Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06268445001108188260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879977333713136014.post-9445464272682547392014-10-16T18:04:00.001-07:002014-10-16T18:06:11.698-07:00I'm #Blessed<br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 16px; font-style: inherit; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.71429em;">This last week of my life has been crazier than it has ever been before! But, it has been so sweet in ways that I never imagined.</span></h1>
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Last week, I went to Nashville. Prior to, my mom told me that she had won a radio contest. She wasn’t sure which one, but I went with it, because it was getting me to Music City, and that was really all that mattered. I missed a day of classes and we spent most of the day traveling and keeping ourselves entertained on the plane. Finally, around 11:30 that night, we had arrived in my favorite city in the world. We made it to our hotel, settled in for the night and ate a Goo Goo Cluster…Because YUM!</div>
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The next day, which was Thursday, we tried to get an earlier start. I could see the sun shining through the windows and my heart was filled with glee. I always wonder if the city will live up to the hype that I’ve created in my mind. Will this trip be as magical as the last? Is it really as great as I remember? It always is, if not better. So, we had some hot tea and got ready, then headed out.</div>
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We certainly covered a lot of ground. We went to the Country Music Hall of Fame, first thing, and spent a couple hours there. It had been awhile since we’d last visited, so there were new exhibits to check out – The Taylor Swift Education Center, Alan Jackson, Kenny Rogers, Miranda Lambert’s Backstage Pass, and one last glance at the Bakersfield Sound section, before it goes away in December. My mom and I also had way too much fun in the new ACM Experience center. There were interactive games to earn badges; trivia and even recording your own song in an imitation of Taylor Swift’s bus. It was the most fun I’d had in awhile; We were laughing SO much.</div>
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<a href="https://shelbynicole92.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/img_3900.jpg" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(197, 197, 197); border-bottom-style: solid; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1279be; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="IMG_3900" class="aligncenter wp-image-52 size-large" height="864" src="https://shelbynicole92.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/img_3900.jpg?w=648&h=864" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; display: block; height: auto; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%;" width="648" /></a></div>
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When we finished at the Hall of Fame, we started wandering around downtown. We went in a couple stores, like The Opry Shop, where I found the perfect bracelet, then we met up for lunch with one of my friends who lives there. We met at Demo’s and had a great time chatting and catching up. When we finished lunch, we went next door to a tour agency to figure out what to do next. Most of the tours that we were interested in taking, like the Nashville show tour (locations that have been used on the show) had already gone out for the day. I was really hoping to do that one, but oh well. Maybe next time. We ended up going into The Ryman for a few minutes; glancing at the shop, using the restroom, then decided to take Lyft over to the Opry!</div>
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<a href="https://shelbynicole92.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/img_3984.jpg" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(197, 197, 197); border-bottom-style: solid; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1279be; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="IMG_3984" class="aligncenter wp-image-62 size-large" height="486" src="https://shelbynicole92.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/img_3984.jpg?w=648&h=486" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; display: block; height: auto; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%;" width="648" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://shelbynicole92.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/img_3988.jpg" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(197, 197, 197); border-bottom-style: solid; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1279be; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="IMG_3988" class="size-medium wp-image-64 aligncenter" height="640" src="https://shelbynicole92.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/img_3988.jpg?w=225&h=300" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; display: block; height: auto; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%;" width="480" /></a><a href="https://shelbynicole92.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/img_3989.jpg" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(197, 197, 197); border-bottom-style: solid; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1279be; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="IMG_3989" class="aligncenter wp-image-65 size-large" height="648" src="https://shelbynicole92.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/img_3989.jpg?w=648&h=648" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; display: block; height: auto; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%;" width="648" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://shelbynicole92.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/img_3995.jpg" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(197, 197, 197); border-bottom-style: solid; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1279be; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="IMG_3995" class="aligncenter wp-image-66 size-large" height="648" src="https://shelbynicole92.files.wordpress.com/2014/10/img_3995.jpg?w=648&h=648" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; clear: both; display: block; height: auto; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%;" width="648" /></a></div>
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The car dropped us off in front of the Opry Plaza, one of my favorite places in the world, and suddenly I felt at home. We wandered around for a few minutes, then decided to take the tour again. I never get tired of seeing some of the most monumental and sacred places in one of the greatest cities. It seems that every tour is different, depending on your guide. It was also a different time of year and less busy than CMA Fest. There was a total of five people on our tour, which was perfect. We watched the introduction video hosted by Blake Shelton, then got started. Our tour guide took his time talking with us and answering any questions we had. We also walked down the hallway of dressing rooms without a million people being packed in. As we made our way through the family room, he started telling us about the show and the lineup, as well as becoming an Opry member. He then said rumor had been going around that someone would be getting inducted the next night. Guesses? Little Big Town (which it was later reveled that they are going to be inducted in about a month). Then, it was time for our last stop…The Opry stage! It was a bit different, because they were actually setting up for a special dinner that night, but we still took our pictures and imagined the roar of the crowd.</div>
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After the tour, we walked through the Opry garden again, then decided to have dinner at the Opry Mills. We had thought about going to Claim Jumper, but I saw Moe’s and was so excited! It was so tasty. Mom and I had some heart-to-heart chit chat, then decided to walk around for awhile. We walked the entire mall (including candle stores, which are my favorite – So many great festive fall scents), and I was totally pooped out and needed some Sweet CeCe’s – So tasty! Also, pretty sure it’s the first time I’ve only gotten one flavor.</div>
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I still wasn’t ready to go back to the hotel just yet, even though it was getting later. I figured, we were only there for a couple of days, might as well make the most of it. So, we decided to go to the Opryland Hotel. We walked all over, stumbling upon a water show that was like the Bellagio in Las Vegas with lights and music, getting lost in the jungle-like environment and trying to find our way out. After about an hour of wandering around, not really sure of where we were going, we had Lyft give us a ride back to the hotel.</div>
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I was so tired out, but felt we’d had a great, full day! We tried to turn in earlier for the night, and I fell asleep so happy and full of life, not wanting to wake up to our last day in the city.</div>
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The next morning, I could already tell I was in a weird funk. I was a little annoyed and just didn’t want to go home – It’s always like that on the last day.</div>
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We got another early start, got ready rather quickly, then walked across the street to Union Station (where Lady Antebellum and Rascal Flatts have filmed videos). It’s also just a gorgeous building with a lot of history. It was fun to take pictures and soak in the beautiful scene of Nashville all around us.</div>
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We went back to the hotel and decided to have breakfast. They had a lot to choose from, but I just wasn’t feeling much like eating. I grabbed a few simple things and mom and I talked…Then, we headed up to the hotel room to gather our stuff together. I was sad and moody, not wanting to leave and we weren’t really sure of what we had time for. Then, mid-morning, we had to meet up with a lady from the radio station. We met with a lady named Jen, ordered coffee, then found a table on the second floor. Jen just wanted to take some notes about us and our trip so she could do a blog for the radio station contest, so we talked about some of the things we’d done, told her our favorite artists, then she switched things over to me wanting to be a journalist/moving to Nashville. She mentioned that she had a connection at Country Weekly and asked if I would want to take a tour of the place. That sounded great, so we headed out.</div>
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We made it to Country Weekly and met the Editor-In-Chief, who showed us a couple of the studios they broadcast radio shows out of, like Nash Nights Live and America’s Morning Show with Blair Garner, Chuck Wicks and Terri Clark. She then opened the door that led to Kix Brooks’ office. I noticed there was a film crew, and as we walked inside, they told us to hurry, because they were going to be in the middle of something soon. Jen asked if I wanted to take my picture in Kix’s chair, so I was trying to hurry as quickly as possible. But, then all of a sudden the door opens. I thought it might be Kix Brooks or something, which would’ve been cool. What actually happened was WAY BETTER.</div>
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I see this tall, handsome guy who looks an awful lot like Charles Kelley. WAIT A MINUTE….THAT IS CHARLES KELLEY. AND HILLARY SCOTT. AND DAVE HAYWOOD. THAT’S LADY ANTEBELLUM. They’re walking towards me. Then, Charles says my name. HOW DOES HE KNOW THAT??? The three of them start walking towards me and say that I’m a journalism major, who loves country music and they know how hard I’ve been working, because my mom nominated me for all of this. They know I want to move to Nashville someday, and they want to help me out. They told me I was going to be interviewing on the red carpet for Nicholas Sparks’ new movie, “The Best of Me,” and that I will write an article which will be published in Country Weekly. I’m still trying to wrap my mind around that. And that’s not all… Dave then handed me a Macbook Air and Charles handed me a laptop bag that held a notebook, pens and a recorder. Because a journalist has to have all of the right tools. I was so stunned.</div>
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They really took their time talking with my mom and I. They asked what we’d been doing in Nashville and my mom mentioned the Opry, which was the perfect setup for my next comment. I told them I wish we could be at the Opry for their performance in a couple weeks, and Charles was like, “Well, let’s do a little something” and asked what I wanted to hear! Since they had just been talking about the movie, and I’ve been DYING to see that/kept listening to their song on the plane, I asked if they wouldn’t mind doing that one. Dave used one of the guitars that Kix had in the office, then Charles started trying to think of how it went, and Hillary helped him out, while Dave tuned the guitar. I just couldn’t believe that my favorite group was sitting just a few inches away from me and they’re singing to me. I couldn’t believe any of it was actually happening. They sang a verse and a chorus, then hung out for a few more minutes. Hillary asked if I had any questions for them, and I do – I’ve made lists over the years, but obviously was not expecting any of this at all, so I didn’t come prepared. She told me that she still gets nervous when she’s talking to people that she really admires, like seeing Bonnie Raitt at The Grammy’s. She said it took her about 10 times before she could finally muster up the courage to talk with her. I told her that’s how I feel about asking questions sometimes – I really want to, but I fear sets in and I’m like ‘mmm. I don’t know.’ They were all so sweet and supportive with everything. Hillary started telling us how they were contacted for the song in the movie, but Charles told her to save some of that for the carpet on Tuesday! Charles and Dave kept joking that I needed to get personal on the carpet, so I was definitely trying to come up with something.</div>
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Then it was time to take some photos. Charles told me to come next to him, then in another photo, Hillary was like, “I want to be next to her.” I seriously felt like the younger sister of the group, they way they were all so loving and seemed to be looking out for me. We also took pictures in front of the movie poster, of course! Charles told me that me and Dave should re-enact the poster. I just laughed and said that was okay, so the two guys proceeded to do it. That was pretty awesome! A few minutes later, Hillary’s husband and daughter came in. Eisele went straight to Hillary, naturally, but kept looking at me. I said hi, then asked if she would give me a high five and she did. It was seriously one of the sweetest moments of my life – I’m pretty sure my heart melted right there. My mom and I both were admiring her a few minutes later, and pretty soon they had to go.</div>
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I talked with the editor for a few minutes and a couple other people that helped with the surprise, then we headed out. To our surprise, Lady A was just sitting in the front room at Country Weekly. We said goodbye and that we’d see them again in just a few days, then headed out. I was in a daze. I didn’t care what we did or where we went from there. Everything I could ever wanted had basically just happened. How do you go from there? Well, we ended up going to the Pinewood Social, which is a bowling alley/rec center that just opened in the city not too long ago. However, when we got there, I wasn’t hungry and didn’t really want to bowl. So, my mom and I grabbed a seat and ordered iced tea! We were talking and freaking out about life, then I called my dad to fill him in on everything.</div>
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After that, we sat and people watched, and even saw Eric Close, who plays Teddy on “Nashville,” which was really exciting! We hung out there for awhile, then decided to walk to the Country Music Hall of Fame to catch the shuttle back to our hotel. Here we are walking down the streets with a computer and other stuff in our hands, like this happens to us every day. Totally random, but we made it in one piece! Nashville really is a safe town.</div>
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We caught the shuttle back to the hotel, got our stuff, then it was time to take the shuttle to the airport. We made it in plenty of time, went through the gate, ate at the Noshville Deli inside the airport, bought the new Nashville Lifestyle magazine, then settled in for a bit. Before we knew it, we were back on a plane flying back to California. I was pinching myself the entire way home, wondering if everything had really just happened. SO WEIRD and so incredible!</div>
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It was easily the greatest two-day trip ever! I can’t thank Lady Antebellum enough, but I am so going to try. They are some of the sweetest people I’ve ever met and I will NEVER forget their generosity.</div>
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Sunday afternoon, when the video was released, everything changed. Suddenly, articles were being written about me, there were comments about me on Facebook and so many friends and family were texting, tweeting and posting congrats to me! It was so surreal. I was even on the news!!!!!</div>
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<a href="http://www.countryweekly.com/news/country-weekly-helps-lady-antebellum-fulfill-young-journalists-dream" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(197, 197, 197); border-bottom-style: solid; border-width: 0px 0px 1px; box-sizing: border-box; color: #1279be; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">http://www.countryweekly.com/news/country-weekly-helps-lady-antebellum-fulfill-young-journalists-dream</a></div>
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If all of that wasn’t enough, I saw that Charles Kelley posted about me on the Lady Antebellum Facebook comments. CRAZY!</div>
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I am so amazed at the love and support I’ve been getting for this dream, that even just a couple weeks ago, felt SO far away and impossible.</div>
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And this was just the beginning of the crazy surprise <span class="wp-smiley wp-emoji wp-emoji-heart" style="border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; display: inline-block !important; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; min-height: 1.2em; outline: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding: 0px; position: relative !important; text-indent: 9999px; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap; width: 1.35em;" title="<3"><3 span=""><!--3--></3></span></div>
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That’s all for now,</div>
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Shelby</div>
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Shelby Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06268445001108188260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879977333713136014.post-80527044565876503022014-09-30T13:30:00.000-07:002014-09-30T13:30:55.074-07:00Goodbye September, Hello October<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />
Several months of this year have passed off quickly, but I don't think any have flown by faster than September. Tomorrow, we will welcome in one of my favorite months...October.<br />
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I'm so excited about so many things coming up. I feel like fall changes everything. Exciting things are in the air. It's a romantic season...Not just for falling in love with that special someone, but life in general. The sky is clearer, the air smells better, and food is better.<br />
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I can't wait for Nashville. Everything pumpkin. Boots. Scarves. Sweaters. For the quarter to end very soon. For new music, especially Taylor Swift's album. All of it. :)<br />
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It's going to be a VERY good month..I can feel it. God is doing some big things, and I'm ready for it. I'm surprised, but I am excited. I'm not terrified anymore. Well, maybe a little. But, I'm trying so hard not to be, so I can have fun with it.<br />
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It's a good life. Why not smile through it?<br />
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That's really all for now. I'm just reminding myself that things are good and they're going to get better. It'll be worth it in the end, as cliche as that sounds.<br />
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Until next time,<br />
ShelbyShelby Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06268445001108188260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879977333713136014.post-23919385298427028482014-09-21T01:45:00.001-07:002014-09-21T01:45:59.244-07:00Fall Favorites<div xmlns='http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml'><div style='width:600px;margin:0 auto'><div style='position:relative;'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/fall_favorites/set?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger&id=135434211' target='_blank'><img force='1' border='0' height='524' title='Fall Favorites' src='http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/1ZUmRAgNJTxqBO674ogcA/cid/135434211/id/1ldNtWtB5BGaeCXdtfvecw/size/c600x524.jpg' alt='Fall Favorites' width='600'/></a></div></div><br/><div style='text-align:center'><small><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/fall_favorites/set?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger&id=135434211' target='_blank'>Fall Favorites</a> by <a href='http://shelbyn92.polyvore.com/?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger' target='_blank'>shelbyn92</a> featuring <a href='http://www.polyvore.com/scented_candles/shop?query=scented+candles' target='_blank'>scented candles</a></small></div><div style='width:600px;margin:0 auto'><small><div style='padding-top:16px'><p style='clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger&id=114977716' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'><img force='1' height='50' style='border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;' src='http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/114977716.jpg' hspace='4' align='left' width='50'/></a><div style='margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger&id=114977716' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Red sweater</a><br/>amazon.com<br/><br style='display:none'/></div></p><p style='clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger&id=115215734' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'><img force='1' height='50' style='border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;' src='http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/115215734.jpg' hspace='4' align='left' width='50'/></a><div style='margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger&id=115215734' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Flat boots</a><br/>paoloshoes.com<br/><br style='display:none'/></div></p><p style='clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger&id=117623691' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'><img force='1' height='50' style='border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;' src='http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/117623691.jpg' hspace='4' align='left' width='50'/></a><div style='margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;'><a href='http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=1083019&.svc=blogger&id=117623691' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Carvela Kurt Geiger brown bag</a><br/>$115 - 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I only have two days of school, so that's not bad, but boy are they long days. I hear so many of my friends and other classmates who have way crazier schedules than I do...I just wonder how they do it all, and wonder whether I just need to start doing more. *sigh*<br />
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I know that things are only going to pick up from here. So, I'm taking advantage of getting out early, no late nights at the paper and not many assignments. But, some stuff is already due next week and I'm just trying to pretend that it doesn't exist and I will finish in plenty of time.<br />
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Each day, I came home with a throbbing headache and not feeling so great for many days (including not eating much). But, now it's time for my four day weekend. I'd say I kicked it off on the right foot.<br />
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There were so many happy things that happened today.<br />
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I talked to Dan Smyers of the country duo, Dan + Shay, for a phone interview this morning. And then they followed me on Twitter! WOO!<br />
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I went to a small town called Tehachapi with my mom and aunt. We had lunch at one of the local diners, wandered the streets exploring all of the historic sites and meandered through antique stores and boutiques. If you know me at all, you probably know my love for small towns and the way it looks like a Hallmark movie waiting to happen. Today also made me especially happy because fall is certainly in the air. There was a slight breeze that felt like it was stirring change. I was wearing shorts and a sweater shirt sort of thing, but I probably could have worn at least one fall item, like a sweater, boots or pants.<br />
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I also smelled candles that were delicious. Walked through the town bakery with all kinds of yummy treats. And I got a Christmas(y) bookmark and some trinkets at one of the thrift stores. Everything was so cheap, how could I not? I found a tea cup and saucer and some nerd glasses. I was pretty excited about it!<br />
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We explored the train station. My aunt made me stand on the toy train and take pictures. I objected at first, but finally gave in and was thrilled to find out that the "bark" around the playground was actually small pieces of tire and made you feel very bouncy as you walked on it. I enjoyed it a little too much.<br />
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After exploring main street, we decided to get some apples, which is actually what we went there for. Last year, we went a little later in October, so it was extremely busy. Today? We were the only ones. We picked several apples from each different basket, and had a free sample of apple cider, while admiring the mountains and crops all around us with apples and other farm areas growing things. It was a breathtaking day and just what I needed. </div>
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We then spent some time shopping at the Dollar Tree, because my aunt wanted tea. Though, I didn't want to, I did end up enjoying the trip. And we had many laughs along the way. I also got a diet coke, so I was happy and satisfied.</div>
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The drive back into town was lovely. We listened to Gavin DeGraw's latest CD "Make A Move," and took in the rare sights of mountains, trees and greenery. It's a beautiful sight and makes me feel like I'm in the backwoods of Tennessee or some other southern state. When we were almost back in town, we stopped at Murray Family Farms, which has sort of turned into a tourist stop. There's a store that sells fresh fruit, nuts, and other food. They also sell other goodies, like postcards and such. It's a really neat place. I wanted some veggie chips, but we ended up getting a boysenberry pie. Flowers also surrounded the building, so we walked around the garden for a bit to take pictures. I was personally obsessed with the sunflowers. It was like something out of a Chris Young song..."Texas sunflower yellow can take your breath away."</div>
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We didn't a lot of time there, then headed home. My aunt left shortly after. I spent the rest of the evening working on my interview, ate dinner and now I'm finishing it off with my pie and several episodes of Jeopardy. It was a really good day.<br />
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The best part? This is just the beginning of a good weekend. Tomorrow is only Friday! YAY :D<br />
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That's all for now,<br />
Shelby :)Shelby Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06268445001108188260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879977333713136014.post-48449016285336475462014-09-15T11:01:00.000-07:002014-09-15T11:01:19.280-07:00The First DayWaking up with my stomach in knots, I heard my alarm start blaring Taylor Swift's "Shake It Off." I read a couple chapters of a new book that I'm reading, then rolled out of bed. This is probably the first time I have actually dreaded a "first day of school." I should only have a year left, but I'm not excited about it. If I could just be done right now...I would.<br />
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Goodbye summer and all of the incredible memories that came with it : staying up late just because. Reading until the wee hours of the morning. Catching up on shows like "New Girl" on Netflix. Going to concerts. Hanging out with Taylor Swift on the set of her music video. Hanging out with my best friend. Spending time with family. Visiting the Queen Mary. Sleeping in until noon and wondering why I wasted the day. <br />
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<i>Sweet memories. </i>All of those things ran through my head as I got ready for my first class, as well as all of the things I said I was going to, but didn't. I was wondering how things were going to be. How much homework I'm going to have. How much I'm going to hate my life by the end of November.<br />
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Although, I can't say my stress level went down, it gave me a lot of time to think. Summer always gives me a lot of time to reflect on the school year - my work ethic. It gives me a chance to set new goals, which I need. I'm constantly writing to do lists and making vision boards for the future. It's just what I do. It gives me that extra head space that I don't always have during the school year.<br />
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So, I finish getting my stuff together - my lunch, my books, my bag, and eating breakfast. Soon, my mom is dropping me off at my first class. Yes, my mom still drops me off since I don't have a car at the moment. I find my friend, Josh, and sit down. Just a few minutes later, one of the tech guys announces that our professor won't make it to class. It has been canceled on the first day. Well, alrighty then...No complaints from the students. We all immediately walked out. But, now I had several hours to just do nothing. What was I going to do?<br />
<br />
I signed up for a trainer (my friend, Athena) at the Student Rec center and I've been reading, people watching and Facebooking at a table outside. It's pretty toasty out already, but I'm sitting under an umbrella, so I don't hate it.<br />
<br />
My next class isn't for another hour and 45 minutes. So, I have some time to kill. I'm hoping to meet up with a couple friends since I haven't seen them in awhile. But, now we're all on that wonderful thing of different schedules, so we shall see if it works out. I'll also have time to eat my lunch.<br />
<br />
The rest of this day shouldn't be too bad. I have a couple other classes today, but I'm sure it'll only be filled with introductions and class goals for the quarter. Not too bad. I'll be here until 7:15...BOOO. But, what can you do?<br />
<br />
That's all for now,<br />
ShelbyShelby Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06268445001108188260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879977333713136014.post-12464146191455026762014-09-13T18:51:00.000-07:002014-09-13T18:51:03.623-07:00{A List of Happy Things}<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>*Finding the new magazines that you've been looking for (especially when Taylor Swift is</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>on the cover). </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>*Smelling candles that smell like fall and festive occasions</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>*Not arguing with my mom, even though we were running a lot of errands.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>*Really good country music </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>*Thinking about staying in a log cabin in the middle of the woods - campfires, s'mores, flannel shirts, a manly man by your side and holding your hand. </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>*Giving your best friend a hug in the middle of Wal-Mart just because she couldn't find the Oreos she wanted and it had been a rough day. Also, looking at the Halloween stuff, because it's so fun.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>*Making plans to move to Nashville someday</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>*Finding out that Lady Antebellum's new song, "I Did With You" (from The Best of Me") is on iTunes already!!!! AHHH!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>*Having money and being able to treat yo self with some stuff (a new book, Dan + Shay's CD, some new shirts, jewelry, etc).</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>*Knowing that someday (after all of the lonely nights, praying and waiting) that I'll find my best friend, my soulmate, and someone who will love God and understand me better than I do myself. I'm holding the faith that it will make it all worth it. *heart*</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>*Watching last year's CMA Awards, because there's nothing else on. Reminds me of how much I miss Nashville and why I'm so passionate about country music and its artists. </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>*Mentally making the perfect fall playlist in my mind. It's starting to sound so good. </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>*GILMORE GIRLS IS COMING TO NETFLIX! All of my first world problems are solved. </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>That's all for now,</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Shelby :)</b></div>
Shelby Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06268445001108188260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879977333713136014.post-45097755371732549512014-09-13T13:09:00.000-07:002014-09-13T13:09:25.846-07:00Fall Quarter 2014Welp, it is officially that time again. I start school Monday...Monday...Ew. I seriously feel like I was just marking the days off of my calendar until classes were out and here we are going right back. The days were just starting to get hot and now we're anxiously awaiting the days when it isn't hitting 90 degrees. The summer sort of dragged on in places, but as a whole, each month zoomed by rather quickly.<br />
<br />
I can honestly say that I have never dreaded school more than I am dreading it right now. I don't even feel totally prepared. But, I guess I do have everything I need. I'm just so ready to be out. Don't get me wrong, I love the people that I'm surrounded by, and I'm learning so much about myself; talking to people, being more outgoing, learning about other people and other things that I've never even wondered about. But, everything has a season, right? And this "season" is finally about to come to an end. Although, I guess the real world doesn't exactly come with "less pressure," so I'll probably regret wishing for things to speed up.<br />
<br />
This is what my schedule looks like the fall...UGH.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>10 a.m. : Mass Media Law </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>12:45 : Newspaper</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>5:15 : Senior Seminar</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Online English Class for my minor </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
GULP. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I don't think the schedule will be that bad actually. It's just the length of the classes that kill me. I can't sit there for long periods of time just listening to professors talk without feeling like I'm going crazy. With production on Monday nights for the newspaper, those days are going to be even longer. *sigh* I just want to be able to do it all and well. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I'm also trying to find a job right now. Something in particular that will look good for my journalism major and my future in Nashville, but also something that will pay. So, that's where I'm at with things. I'm planning and carefully looking at my "timeline" and schedule for the next year. Trying to make it all happen just so. But, I also know that God likes to step in a lot and makes things even better than I possibly could have. I want to be open to those things that aren't necessarily in my plan right now, but to be cautious with all of it. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
I keep thinking that somewhere along the lines, my 20's will start making more sense or will stop being so stressful, but if anything they just get more confusing. It's funny how high school doesn't seem all that bad looking back. Oh well... I just keep thinking that means my 30's will be so much sweeter. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
That's all for now. Time to enjoy the last few minutes of staying in bed, having nowhere to go, no deadlines, and not a million other things on my to-do list. Although, on the agenda for today...Finding Taylor Swift on the cover of Rolling Stone and her section in Country Weekly. I'm pretty excited about that.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
That's all for now,</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Shelby :)</div>
Shelby Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06268445001108188260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879977333713136014.post-22959790625665150012014-09-11T15:44:00.003-07:002014-09-11T15:44:57.501-07:00It's Thursday.I'm sitting here listening to Taylor Swift's "Red" album and eating soup. Naturally, I'm dreaming of fall - Sweaters, pumpkin everything, and romance seems to be in the air. Not necessarily with relationships, but for art. It's a creative time. But, unfortunately, it's still a million degrees outside and still feels every bit of summer. Except that school starts soon and I'm already starting to feel the stress. It's going to be one heck of a quarter, let me tell you.<br />
<br />
I haven't been feeling so great over the past week or two, so I'm just taking it easy and feeling very sluggish. You know how that goes.<br />
<br />
Yesterday was long and tiring. I was at the newspaper office from 10-6pm... I threw up a little before I came to school. I started feeling way worse throughout the day and everything was just hitting at once. It was easily one of the weirdest days of my life. It felt like a mini breakdown. I'm starting to think it's healthy, though. It's good to just FREAK OUT, honestly and organically. I've tried to hold it all in for so long, like I can handle everything with no problem, because so many others make it look easy - I can too. Trying to go through life without making mistakes, but that's how we grow. It's also okay not to be okay.<br />
<br />
So, my best friend picked me up from school/work and came back to my house. We ate dinner (I hadn't eaten practically all day. I had eaten bites of a donut and a cookie...On top of drinking iced tea from Starbucks and having to take medicine). I think I was on caffeine overload.<br />
<br />
But, sometimes laying on the floor and having a chat about life with your best friend can instantly make everything better. We listened to "Shake It Off," talked about how our 20's are just a very confusing time, my cat kept us company and we laughed when we started getting tired.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj01nOSpHokgr2nVt_F60229XXbglCCd__3BjwVxNSIXlQl4J6MmW3yJ0uEdTHkV01tMzSYnLHEUxQH609ht5qXxoD7VVsBIfLAmIHg5Kje0X3N1RGgWnUowQf5ZEXhWB4dsEyX4Owq4-ku/s1600/10592930_10204780964100254_4221875134315596386_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj01nOSpHokgr2nVt_F60229XXbglCCd__3BjwVxNSIXlQl4J6MmW3yJ0uEdTHkV01tMzSYnLHEUxQH609ht5qXxoD7VVsBIfLAmIHg5Kje0X3N1RGgWnUowQf5ZEXhWB4dsEyX4Owq4-ku/s1600/10592930_10204780964100254_4221875134315596386_n.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Marissa took this picture of me....HAHAHAHA.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It was a good night.<br />
<br />
So, I hope that when you're not feeling well that your best friends save the day and put a smile back on your face.<br />
<br />
That's all for now,<br />
Shelby<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Shelby Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06268445001108188260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879977333713136014.post-50683840729562870852014-09-02T00:19:00.000-07:002014-09-02T00:19:19.303-07:00Labor Day Weekend Part TwoToday, I slept in and took advantage of the day and not having to do anything. After tossing and turning awhile, I decided to get up and see what the day was going to hold. I talked with my parents for awhile, then my dad ran out to get us donuts. We ate and I finished getting ready. Well, my mom was going to stay home and clean, while my dad and I went to the store to pick up stuff for lunch with my grandparents. I basically just threw something on; an "I Heart Carrie" (Carrie Underwood) tshirt and jean capri pants. Didn't brush my hair, just threw it in a ponytail and called it good.<br />
<br />
My dad and I took a little longer at the store than I thought we'd be, but we got everything we needed. We tried to rent "God's Not Dead" so we could watch it when my grandparents came over, but they didn't have it at the grocery store's Red Box. We dropped off the groceries at home, then went back out to check a couple other places. They still didn't have it. It looks like everyone else had the same idea of watching movies today. But, no movie for us.<br />
<br />
We came home and didn't leave much time for getting ready, when my grandparents got here. We all visited with them for awhile, then my grandpa and dad went outside to start the burgers. The ladies stayed inside as my mom prepared the chips and dip, talking and catching up with our lives. When the burgers were done, gramps and my dad joined us. We gathered around the table and ate..Yum! We talked about our family visiting sometime next month and later on, our trip to Hawaii a few years ago. We had dessert and talked some more, then my grandparents left.<br />
<br />
It was so good seeing them. I feel like just when I could really start getting to know them, my grandpa is starting to slow down and things just aren't the same...You know what I mean? I guess if anything, it's an eye-opener to the fact that I need to cherish every moment with them. You really just can't waste time, because there isn't enough of it to go around.<br />
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<br />
** In other news, Carrie Underwood is pregnant. Like, I just can't believe it. Every time someone asked her whether she was pregnant, she acted like they weren't really ready for that. Then again, I wouldn't exactly want to announce something like that to the world either, if they were trying. Kind of crazy, though!! I'm super excited for her and Mike...It'll be interesting to see how the little one grows up...I wonder if he or she will be attending the next fan club party? LOL.<br />
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After my grandparents left, my dad and I went for a bike ride around our neighborhood. It was still pretty warm out and the tires on my bike were getting pretty flat. It was not a good mix, but I sure did enjoy the time with my dad and I felt a lot better after getting those endorphins going. As much as I love fall and winter, there's something so special and sentimental about the summer. It's about holding onto your youth, letting time stand still for a bit. I love the talks I have with my dad and I love that we don't have to say anything at all either. Sometimes everything we need to say is said in those quiet moments.<br />
<br />
My mom and I watched Candace Cameron's movie, "Finding Normal," when we came back. I did a little bit of writing, drank some hot tea and surfed the web. I also ran out to get food with my dad and spent the rest of the night online.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: start;">
It has been a long weekend and there are a lot of busy things starting up for this week. I just hope I'm ready to take it on! AH! Wish me luck...I think I'm going to spend some time reading, then drifting off to night-night land. It's a good place.</div>
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That's all for now,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: start;">
Shelby :)</div>
Shelby Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06268445001108188260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879977333713136014.post-53417278477315562342014-09-01T21:23:00.002-07:002014-09-01T22:41:43.001-07:00Labor Day Weekend Part One<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>I'm in love. </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>With the ocean. freedom. adventure. summer. </b><br />
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
*****</div>
<b>Saturday</b><br />
<br />
I woke up rather early this morning, got ready and finished packing up my belongings. Our family friends came to our house, we finished packing up the car and we drove off. We stopped at Jack-in-the-Box for breakfast, then made our trek to Long Beach. We had a lot of entertaining conversation about going to New York sometime soon, the ALS Challenge, among other things. I started listening to the playlist I had created for awhile, but was too interested in everything else that was happening to really pay attention to that.<br />
<br />
We made our way into Long Beach and went straight to the Queen Mary. We bought our tickets, then climbed aboard the ship (after walking the red carpet and checking out the fancy cars in front). It really felt like we were going on a long voyage, and oh, how I wish we would've been.<br />
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Our party decided to check out the new Princess Diana/Royal family exhibit first. It was FREEZING inside, which I think had something to do with preserving the memorabilia. Princess Diana was someone that my grandma always seemed to really like. I remember the night that Princess Di got killed so vividly and how no one could believe it. I didn't understand her impact at the time, but through the years, I have come to have an admiration of her myself. The exhibit was fascinating, looking at all of the different plates and invitations that the royal family had owned. But, obviously, I was most interested in everything dealing with Princess Di. She truly lived such an extraordinary life. Yes, she was gorgeous and graceful...All of the things that a princess should be, but she genuinely cared about people. In so many ways, Taylor Swift reminds me of her. They both have so much success/fame, but they have this relatable factor that draws everyone to them. This exhibit was really like a step inside of Di's world - How she felt about the spotlight and her role in the public eye. They expected so much of her, but to her it seemed worth it at the time. But, it killed all of us to see how happy she seemed in the earlier years, thinking that Prince Charles actually loved her, only to find out that he'd been having an affair. She was really only there to give him kids and make their family look good. I'd really like to start looking into her life more and reading more about her, because she's certainly someone to look up to for all of the things she did, not just her title. It was also incredibly neat to see some of her gowns in all of their glory. It's amazing to me how different they look in person, while comparing it to the picture. It was so funny to me how a lot of styles from the designers/stores like TopShop, etc. have stayed the same throughout the years.<br />
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There was also a section dedicated to Kate Middleton, which I was freaking out about. I love her and Prince William. Some of her most famous outfits were put on display, like the "see through" gown she wore the first time Prince William saw her, her dark blue engagement dress and a few others that she wore while pregnant. I'm obsessed with her style, just like every other girl around the world. She is so much like Princess Diana, but I just think it's adorable that her and Prince William really seem to love each other and help others. But, how adorable would it have been to see Diana and Kate doing stuff together?<br />
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We couldn't take any pictures of the clothes or anything inside, but in a way I was actually kind of glad. It gave me a chance to really absorb everything and let History come alive after hearing so much about it.<br />
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The exhibit took us quite awhile, as it was much bigger than we had anticipated. But, of course, we looked through the gift shop and I wanted everything. They had so many adorable tea pots and tea cups, pillows, books about style, British tea and stationary. It was way too expensive though.<br />
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After spending so much time in the Diana exhibit, we decided to take a bit of a break. We went to the restroom, grabbed some chips and a coke, then sat down for awhile. My parents and I also stepped outside to take a few pictures and take in the view. We even checked out a few of the stores on the ship that made us feel like we were actually on a cruise. People were dressed up like the 1920s, and I so wish I had known. I would've worn a dress or played the part with them; so fun! They also had some old timey vendors on one of the decks with signs, perfumes and Downton Abbey inspired jewelry. It was like a step back in time. </div>
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Awhile later, we decided to start our self-guided tour of the ship. We started out on one of the decks, doing our "King of the World" impressions, which somehow was just not the same without Leonardo! HAHA! </div>
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Doing the self-guided tour was a bit trickier, because we just sort of wandered around to see what we could. We saw the old nurse's station and read about the deaths that had occurred while out to sea. We saw the captain's station and what some of the state rooms used to look like. It's crazy to see how much has changed, especially with the technology these days. And we stopped along the edge to check out the beautiful view of the ocean and the rest of the city. </div>
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We made our way into the last exhibit of the Queen Mary, which was dedicated to Bob Hope. There were a lot of awards and accomplishments, as well as some of his outfits. It was a really cool exhibit and it felt much nicer inside than outside, so I was all for it. But, we were all pooping out and getting hungry. It was so hot out and we felt a little gross, so we had planned to go back to the hotel to change. But, by the time we made our way into the city, we just decided to stop for dinner.<br />
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We walked around this beach-themed shopping center, which resembled one of the coolest places we visited in South Carolina. After checking out some of the restaurants, we decided on Yardhouse, which was a really nice seafood/steak place. Ever since we've been visiting that area, I've always wanted to try that and was so excited we were finally able to. Would've been the perfect place for a "first date," but then again, what do I know? I've never really had a first date. HAHA!<br />
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We were all so tired and it was hard to hear one another talk, because the music was loud and we were in the bar section. But, I really enjoyed going out for some food with great company. We laughed and talked a little, but mainly we were just really tired and needed FOOD. Lol. I had a grilled artichoke, because I thought I'd try something that I don't always get. It was really tasty and filling.<br />
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We didn't have any plans after dinner, so we decided to wander around the shopping center. We walked into a few neat stores that sold soap and other trinkets, then walked over to a pier, admiring the view as the sun went down. As we watched boats gliding across the water, we had started talking about taking a boat ride. Before our trip, we had mentioned doing that, but didn't know how the rest of the day was going to go. My mom and Tami looked online and we found one that sounded like a good idea. So, we found a water taxi and caught the 7:15 boat just before it left. Long Beach has easily become one of my favorite places. I was trying to come up with plots for future stories as I walked along the street. There's nothing like a trip to the beach or just simply spending time in nature to inspire you. There's absolutely nothing like it. I feel so calm and relaxed. I'm not in a rush to do anything. I feel like I can be my best self...And those moments reminded me that I can't wait to get out. I'll miss my family and closest friends, absolutely, but I was born to be somewhere else - traveling and seeing the world.<br />
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It was amazing. The weather was starting to cool down and we were out on the ocean...My happy place. I love losing myself out there. Every other care and worry goes out of my mind. Out there, it's nothing but the unknown. I don't need to have everything figured out and even if I did, it can wait because nothing else matters. I never feel more alive than when my hair is just flying in the breeze, smelling the salty sea air and my phone is put away. Once we moved out of the "5 Mph" zone, we were bouncing over the waves. All I could do was just smile. Everything I'd been worrying about with school starting up/ finding a job just didn't seem as important. I started thinking more about my life and where I'm at, the things I've done and where I'm heading. You know what? I'm darn proud of everything I've accomplished and the strength that I've acquired over the years. Something came to my mind that was similar to a Brooke Davis quote on One Tree Hill. "I do what I do and I like what I like, and that's just who I am." I don't need the validation of others to make me feel worthy. I don't care if other people agree with what I'm doing. I've done just about everything that I've wanted to do or could have hoped to do at this point in my life. I mean, sure, I look back and there are a few times that I wish I'd hung out with my friends more, but overall, I'm content with where I am right now and I'm still working towards the goal. Someone is always going to have an opinion of what you should be doing - Having a boyfriend, getting a job, doing this or doing that. But, I found peace out there on the ocean and forgot about all of the other hats that others want me to wear. I don't need to be anyone other than me and I have no problem doing that anymore.<br />
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After our boat ride came to an end, we walked around the pier/shopping center again. They had some vendors hanging out along the sidewalk and I bought a fancy straw hat, which I was very excited about. I decided to put on for a little bit, so that made me feel very cool ;) Then, it was time for dessert. I got a cappuccino heath flurrie ice cream. It was yummy!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD5x_W578AJP7XNvtmKsLQeWeDvImzEUOAwJlTZktI0N7QhEKvpxWzqfT3Xo5VpplNFYx_MVAQFgPovKUOJjCrrv_RtCc_Z2n0v1CUC3oGLc-F5etgDSYVgC33nFzkvvbf1JdMe75krbZm/s1600/IMG_2928.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD5x_W578AJP7XNvtmKsLQeWeDvImzEUOAwJlTZktI0N7QhEKvpxWzqfT3Xo5VpplNFYx_MVAQFgPovKUOJjCrrv_RtCc_Z2n0v1CUC3oGLc-F5etgDSYVgC33nFzkvvbf1JdMe75krbZm/s1600/IMG_2928.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In this moment, THIS is the hat that I want to wear. HA!</td></tr>
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Once we finished our ice cream and had seen everything we wanted to, we decided it was finally time to find our hotel. We checked in, then went to our rooms. Paul and Tammy were on a different level than we were, so we had talked about getting together again to hang out, but I think we all got pretty comfy where we were. I decided to download pictures to make room on my phone and hung out for the rest of the night. It was so nice. It's probably the earliest I've gone to bed in quite some time, too. *Sigh*</div>
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<b>Sunday</b><br />
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I was the last one to get up in the morning, naturally. I rolled out of bed groggily and started getting ready as soon as my eyes opened all the way and I felt fully awake. I don't take long at all to get ready, so once I was finished, I packed up my stuff and we were ready to go. We met Paul and Tammy in the lobby to check out, then headed to our car.<br />
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Then, came the question of "where do we want to eat?" We couldn't think of anything in town, so we just kept driving. Eventually we decided on Cheesecake Factory, so we ate at the Sherman Oaks Galleria location. It was also Paul's birthday, so wherever he wanted to go was cool with us. It was a really nice shopping center, but doesn't have very many stores. I'm kind of obsessed with Cheesecake Factory...We eat there a lot. So, I was excited that was where we ended up. We were going to eat on the patio, because it was SOCOLD inside, but after stepping outside, we decided to get a booth instead. We glanced at our menus, completely intimidated by the size, because there are pages and pages of meals. I always say I'm going to try something different, and while I've tried many items, I also tend to stick with my same favorites. Yesterday, I tried something totally off the wall - the grande burrito. Well, they weren't kidding when they said it was "grande." I think I ate about half of it, and it was so good. I'd definitely get it again.<br />
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Our waiter was super friendly, too. My dad always asks if celebrities have come in recently when we're at restaurants in the LA area, so he asked our waiter. He told him that he had just waited on Selena Gomez the other day and that she was very sweet and very nice. I thought that was cool!<br />
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We finished with lunch, then decided to get a move on (but still stopped to shop at Urban Home for a few minutes). Then, on we went to the Ronald Reagan Library in Simi Valley. I've been there several times before, but they had a new baseball exhibit that my parents wanted to go to. Plus, it had been awhile since we last visited, so I was all for it. It was a little drive, but I love car trips, so I was all for the 'rocking out to music' and chatting with good people.<br />
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Once we arrived at the library, we realized it was going to be pretty busy. There were cars winding all around the hill, but luckily we were able to find a parking spot in the lot. PHEW! We bought our tickets, then started our journey. There was a short video that showed an overview of Reagan's life, then we were free to roam the museum. Everything was at your own pace, so we took our time going through each exhibit...Or at least trying to see everything. It was extremely busy, so it was an act of maneuvering in and out of people to see the cases you wanted to.<br />
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The museum is one of the most organized, starting with his early years and working towards his most influential moments and ultimately, his death. Ronald Reagan was someone who lived a FULL life. He seemed to be a good student, he was involved in clubs and school spirit. Early on in his life, he was all about making a difference and doing something about what he saw. He wasn't called "the great communicator" for nothing, because he made such an impact on a lot of people, not only in our nation, but our world. I also enjoyed the fact that there were many "interactive" stations that allowed people to stand at a presidential podium, see a replica of the Oval Office and plan a party as if it were at the White House.<br />
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We made our way out to the hangar, where Air Force One is located. They also have old secret service cars and a helicopter in there now, which was exciting. It allows you to get up close and personal in ways that other places don't. We walked through the airplane, then decided to check out the helicopter. I didn't want to, at first, because I thought it would make me a bit claustrophobic. At the last minute, I decided to give it a shot. It wasn't very big, but it was cool to be in a helicopter that used to belong to Reagan. It's not every day that you get to do something like that. </div>
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When we finished there, we made our way over to the new baseball exhibit, but apparently, we were just starting the second HALF of the museum. A lot had to do with the Berlin wall/Soviet War, etc, which we went through that portion rather quickly, since it wasn't quite as interesting to us and we wanted to make sure we saw everything else. I personally loved the "ranch"/country section, because that was such a big part of who Ronald Reagan was and it's also a big thing for me as well. Proudly displayed were his belt buckles and some of his clothes that he wore on the ranch. There was even a horse to pretend that you were riding alongside him! HAHA! Now, that I had to do. </div>
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The last section was about his death and the legacy he left behind. That was such a powerful moment. I had written a report about Reagan in 5th grade, so I knew what a great president and leader he was. Though I never met him, I felt connected to him, like so many other people. To watch video from his funeral was really starting to make me tear up. We weren't sure whether we'd have enough time, so we skipped the video about his life, which was kind of a bummer. But, we still had to make it to the baseball exhibit that we had really come for. It was also rather large, with plenty of memorabilia. My dad really took his time going through each and every corner, since his baseball is his thing (or any sports for that matter). There were a lot of old pictures of players, jerseys, gloves, replicas of stadiums and baseball cards. Down below, there was another room that looked like a baseball field with old banners, older jerseys and more. I can't believe how many items were in there and that have been taken care of for so long. </div>
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Ronald Reagan's library knows how to do it right! It was lively and really gave a closer look at their life. He's another leader that did so much for people and really helped them. But, he also got the job done. And that's a rare task. When we finished seeing everything we wanted to, we went to the gift shop. I bought a journal (of course) and a postcard of Ronald and Nancy Reagan, because they were adorable together. I would have liked to have gotten the book about their love stories, including their handwritten letters to one another over the years, but ya know... Maybe another time. </div>
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We made our way outside to check out the view of the valley. The museum is perched on a hill overlooking Simi Valley and it's absolutely breathtaking when the sun is shining down. There are gardens of flowers all over the lawn, a piece of the Berlin wall and Ronald Reagan is actually buried out there. It's a beautiful memorial spot. There were, however, signs on the yard that said to watch out for rattlesnakes since that is their natural habitat. Fortunately, we did not see any. </div>
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After spending several hours at the library, we were all starting to feel a little worn out. We stopped at Dairy Queen for a quick bite to eat, then hit the road. Oh my gosh...I love our car rides. My dad and Paul were making us...Well, me, laugh so hard because of their ridiculousness. HAHA! Our road trips with family friends are everything to me. It's truly great to have those friends that you've known forever and can constantly say "remember when" to just about everything, because you've lived it out together. </div>
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We stopped at McDonald's for a potty break and to get something to drink, and didn't have much longer before we were home. It was dark when we got back to our house and was close to 9 p.m. We unloaded the car, said goodbye to Paul and Tammy, then spent the rest of the evening doing our own thing. Awhile later, we started getting hungry, so my dad and I went to Taco Bell to grab something to eat. </div>
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I took a shower and relaxed for the rest of the evening. It was such a good weekend, but I was totally wiped out from all of the adventures we had. And the party was going to continue into today, so I wanted to be ready for all of that. </div>
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That's all for now,</div>
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Shelby :)</div>
Shelby Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06268445001108188260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879977333713136014.post-57126814951734500282014-08-30T23:54:00.003-07:002014-08-30T23:54:46.115-07:00It's like the clock is always racing, but my time is not for wasting<div style="background-color: white; border: 0px; color: #4a4a4a; font-family: Garamond, 'Hoefler Text', 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin-bottom: 1.615em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: left; vertical-align: baseline;">
This has been a pretty productive week, I would say and has been keeping me busy. I've been working on some stories and trying to set up a couple interviews. School hasn't even started yet, and it feels like things are already starting to go full speed again. I tried to do my devotions a bit more, which was so good for my soul and I even went bike riding. It's time to get back in the game of life, you know what I mean? Breaks are nice, but then you've just gotta jump back with all you have. </div>
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<b>Monday </b>was free and spent hanging out at home. I watched TV and was lazy. That was very nice!</div>
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<b>Tuesday</b> -- Some of the peeps from the newspaper went with our adviser to our local paper to see how they do some things. We talked with the editor-in-chief and sat in on one of their planning meetings, as they talked about what would go in the next day's paper. We were observing, hoping to get some ideas that might help us for this next school year. It was fun getting to see everyone and getting back into the swing of things for the paper. </div>
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Mom and I came home to chill for the rest of the afternoon. I wasn't feeling so great and was feeling so lazy. I fell asleep for a few minutes, but then it was time to get ready for the big event that day. </div>
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Then, I went to a free concert at one of my favorite places :)</div>
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<b><u>Free Show at Buck Owens' Crystal Palace</u></b></div>
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You might not be familiar with the names Maddie and Tae right now, but I have a feeling that soon you will. With the release of their first country single just weeks ago, “Girl in a Country Song,” they’ve been turning heads all over and making people pay close attention. Like a lot of other people, they’ve gotten a little tired of the cliché country songs and the way women seem to be treated in them. At one of their writing sessions, they decided to write a list of those things mentioned in those predictable songs and that’s what they came up with.</div>
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Tuesday night, Aug. 27, the new girl duo played at Buck Owen’s Crystal Palace. It was one of the free KUZZ listener shows, presented by Barber Honda. Like many of the shows at the Palace, it was a packed house. The evening was fantastic. I always love being in the country music environment, as it makes me feel like I'm back in Nashville, Tenn. It also reminds me of my roots and that this is home. My mom and I shared a burger, though we had contemplated the chicken fried steak. We ran into a friend of ours from the Carrie Underwood fan club, so it was great chatting with her and listening to some great country music. </div>
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KUZZ radio personality, Toni Marie, introduced the Maddie and Tae, then announced that their current music video has almost over 5 million hits on YouTube. I had chills at the thought of that. Before they even took the stage, I had goosebumps and knew I was about to witness something big. It was like the first time I saw Taylor Swift open for Brad Paisley. The Dot Records recording artists, Maddie and Tae walked out seconds later, excited to play for everyone. They also mentioned that they’d been fed some yummy food a bit earlier. They joked that they’d needed an hour in between eating and playing, because they’d been shoving their faces with food.</div>
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But, I digress.</div>
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When a single gets a lot of praise right from the start, especially for something a little more tongue-in-cheek like, “Girl in a Country Song,” you wonder whether they’ll be more than a one-hit wonder. These girls proved all of those possible theories wrong.</div>
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The two reminded me of another certain young songstress, Taylor Swift, when she started out in country music. The duo has an undeniably charming stage presence and were extremely charismatic and down-to-earth; chatting with the crowd conversationally and taking selfies with those who had gathered around the stage. But, more than that, the crowd was completely enamored with the way they connected through music.</div>
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Along with their beautiful harmonies, Maddie and Tae tapped into the depth of their true songwriting skills. They sang about love, a beautiful bully who used to bother them in high school and the passing of a friend’s dad. They even did a cover of the Dixie Chicks’ “Cowboy Take Me Away.”</div>
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After their set, the girls said they’d be signing and would love to meet everyone. Maddie and Tae stood in the lobby greeting with fans as a line formed. They took their time taking pictures and really getting to know the fans who wanted to talk with them. Finally, it was my turn to meet them. I introduced myself and shook their hands, and they returned the favor. Maddie thanked me for being there, and I told her it was great to be there. Then, I explained to them that I’m a journalism major and I’m the Features Editor of my paper, and I would love to talk with them. I was wondering if we could set something up over the phone or through e-mail.</div>
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“Well, you’ll actually want to talk to that guy right there,” Tae told me, pointing to one of the guys on their team. He had been handing out autographed pictures.</div>
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As I was getting in between them for the photo, Tae was still talking to me. She was like, “That’s so cool that you’re going to school for that. How long have you been doing it?” It was a little awkward trying to talk with them, while taking the picture, but I was managing! I told her I had been doing it for about the last year, and they thought that was interesting. One of the guys on their team handed me a business card, so I could email him and get something going. I was so excited! They’re such sweet girls. Watching them chat with fans about their outfits and taking the time to take pictures and look people in the eye. That will go a long way, let me tell you.</div>
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Myself with Maddie and Tae <span class="wp-smiley emoji emoji-smile" style="background-image: none; border: none; display: inline-block !important; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; min-height: 1.2em; outline: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding: 0px; position: relative !important; text-indent: 9999px; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap; width: 1.35em;" title=":)">:)</span></div>
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I was so impressed with not only their music, but their personalities and can’t wait to see what they do next!</div>
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<b>Wednesday</b></div>
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My mom and I had lunch with my aunt, then we visited my cousin in the hospital. We don't get to see her very often, so I was happy to get to spend time with her. Just sad that it had to be under these kind of circumstances. We came home and didn't do much for the rest of the afternoon. I tried to start getting some things together for a story I'm currently working on for our back to school issue…Ya know. Pretty uneventful rest of the day.</div>
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<b>Thursday</b></div>
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It was a pretty relaxed day…I went for a bike ride, which I can't remember the last time I did that by myself. It was incredibly hot out and my legs were seriously burning by the time I came home. But, I listened to Taylor Swift's "Shake It Off" on repeat the whole time and I was so ready to take on the world by the time I finished up. I also had a great dance session on my bike, while mentally tuning out the haters.<br />
Later on last night, I also had a chat with the podcast "Swift Talk" about my experience, which was a blast! It's always great getting to talk about amazing things like this with fellow "Swifties." It was also really strange finally being able to talk about all of the details..I still haven't really talked about it with too many people, since most of my friends aren't big Taylor fans, so I've only posted my detailed blog about it. It's easier for me to say everything I need to when I write. When I talk, my words get a bit jumbled sometimes. HA! It was a good time, though.<br />
The rest of the night was spent watching Netflix and hanging out. Taking advantage of that whole 'don't have anything to do right now' thing.</div>
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<b>Friday</b><br />
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I love Fridays! Even while I'm on vacation, there's just something about them that gets me excited with possibilities. </div>
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Well, for one thing…I've been watching this show religiously on Netflix over the last week or so. I had tried so many times to watch the show, but never could make it past the pilot. Last week, there was absolutely nothing on TV, so I told my mom we should start something new on Netflix. Well, we made it past the first and second episodes, and kept watching - It didn't take long, because I was instantly hooked. It reminds me a lot of One Tree Hill. I mean, it focuses on a sport, there's a deeper message, lots of relationship stuff, and good plots. It's not just purely for entertainment. Jason Katims is a genius. So, yeah…This is my latest obsession. Also, Tim Riggins. That is all that needs to be said. I also love Matt/Julie - Those two are seriously adorable together. But, I'll get to why this is such a big deal to me in a bit. Stay with me.<br />
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Today, I was able to sleep in a little. I just stayed in bed for awhile, because my room was dark and cozy, and it was early. Then I took my time getting ready. When we were ready, my mom and I ran some errands and were out a bit later today. By the time we got home we were pretty wiped out. That summer heat is exhausting.<br />
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The rest of the afternoon was pretty relaxed, which I didn't have a problem with. I also had a few things to take care of - packing, making a playlist...Things to get ready for this weekend. Then, later on, my mom and I met my dad at his work so he and I could go to one of the local high school football games. This is where Friday Night Lights comes into play. Because I've been so obsessed with the show, it has given me a new appreciation for the game. I told my dad that I wanted to go with him sometime to a football game, since he goes a lot, and this one came up, so it was perfect.<br />
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It was at our local college stadium, so it was all on a much larger scale than a typical high school game, but it was still a blast. I don't get to spend very much time with just my dad, so this outing was such a special treat for us. It gave us a chance to chat more and for me to get to watch him in his element, the way he's always there for me during my concerts/etc. I also love hearing his stories from his childhood. My uncle was working the game and my aunt was there too, so we were able to visit with them for a bit.<br />
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And, of course, I had to take some selfies. </div>
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My dad said it was probably one of the longest high school football games he has ever been to, which kind of made me laugh that it was the one I decided to go to. But, I didn't mind. Our team won and if nothing else, it helped me to understand the "big deal" about football. I understand the passion of the sport and the dedication. Daily, these guys give their all to a sport the possibility of a dream that might not ever happen. But, they give it their all and hope for the best. Like anything else, it could all be gone in a second. They keep going anyway. </div>
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The game didn't end until around midnight, but we went to In-N-Out after. My dad hadn't eaten basically all day, because of his grueling schedule at work, so he was more than ready to eat. I had eaten, but decided to have a burger, because YOLO. It was soooo worth every bite and calorie, too. </div>
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It was a late night for all of us as we each had some things to take care of. I took a quick shower, finished packing up and making the playlist I had started earlier and finally climbed in bed. I finished reading "Fangirl," which was so good, turned on Parenthood and fell asleep. I'd say it was probably around 2:45 or 3 a.m. by the time I fell asleep. *sigh*</div>
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All in all, it was a very eventful week. So many exciting prospects on the horizon (interviews and other opportunities) that are also kind of freaking me out at the same time. Everything that I was wishing and hoping for this time last summer, is actually coming true. There's no more time for hiding behind insecurity...I've been jumping and seeing what I'm made of. So far, it's paying off and I'm having a great time, despite just feeling incredibly overwhelmed at times. </div>
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But, I'm looking forward to "the last hurrah" of summer. Enjoying some time away before I go back to school.</div>
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That's all for now,</div>
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Shelby</div>
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Shelby Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06268445001108188260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879977333713136014.post-27250754129884754332014-08-30T02:09:00.001-07:002014-08-30T02:09:44.746-07:00The day I filmed a video with Taylor Swift at Dunder Mifflin<div id="main" style="border-bottom-color: rgb(238, 238, 238); border-bottom-style: solid; border-width: 0px 0px 18px; color: #4a4a4a; float: left; font-family: Garamond, 'Hoefler Text', 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 24px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 1.615em 0px 0px; vertical-align: baseline; width: 960px;">
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<article class="post-531 post type-post status-publish format-standard hentry category-artist-spotlight category-experiences category-music-2 category-pop-culture tag-music-video tag-shake-it-off tag-taylor-swift" id="post-531" style="margin: 0px 0px 3.23em; position: relative;"><div class="entry-content" style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 1.615em 0px 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">
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So, this was a pretty big secret that I was keeping for about two months…And now the cat is finally out of the bag! I was an extra for Taylor Swift's video "Shake It Off." AHHHH!</div>
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Here's the experience...</div>
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<strong style="border: 0px; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline;">*I wrote this the day we shot the video, so the language is a bit more “active” or “in the moment.” There are also probably some details that have changed since the video came out yesterday. I am also waiting for the group picture that we got with Taylor, and because we couldn’t have our phones that day, I don’t have any pictures from the day! And I’m sorry that it’s so incredibly long…If you actually read all of this, you rock! </strong></div>
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<a href="https://citygirlandsoutherncharm.files.wordpress.com/2014/08/taylor-swift-shake-it-off-video-2-2014-billboard-650.jpg" style="border: 0px; color: #1982d1; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"><img alt="The outfit she was wearing when our group filmed on June 25. //Image from Billboard. com" class="wp-image-533" height="205" src="https://citygirlandsoutherncharm.files.wordpress.com/2014/08/taylor-swift-shake-it-off-video-2-2014-billboard-650.jpg?w=310&h=205" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; border: 1px solid rgb(187, 187, 187); display: block; height: auto; margin: -3px auto 0px; max-width: 98%; padding: 1px;" width="310" /></a><div class="wp-caption-text" style="border: 0px; color: #8a8a8a; font-family: inherit; font-style: italic; margin-bottom: 0.8075em; margin-top: 0.8075em; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; vertical-align: baseline;">
The outfit she was wearing when our group filmed on June 25. //Image from Billboard. com</div>
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If ever there was a sentence or a list of things I never thought I would say, I guess that headline would probably take the cake. And I’ll explain what that was all about a little later. However, I think all stories need a little background information, so let me start at the beginning, which happened last week, on Tues., June 18.</div>
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My summer had been pretty uneventful, which is totally fine after a crazy school year, but it is summer and I had nothing <b>planned</b>. While some of my friends are going off to Alaska and Hawaii, I’ve just been taking care of things that needed to be done around the house and doing a lot of reading. Until out of the blue, I receive a message from Taylor Swift’s people (Taylor Nation), saying that I’ve been selected for a special CONFIDENTIAL project, asking whether I would be interested. I couldn’t believe her team was reaching out to me like that, so I was just excited about that. I immediately ran and told my mom, who thought it might be a scam or someone had hacked their account. I was a little leery, but it all seemed legit after checking that it did indeed come from their verified account.</div>
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So, I emailed them right away, and they filled me in on the fact that it was super exclusive; not to say anything to ANYONE about the project or the details or to post anything online, though I still knew nothing. After corresponding with Taylor’s people and telling them that I was absolutely interested and met all the requirements, they said they’d be in touch in a few days. They also stressed several times that it was A BIG SECRET and you should not share the email anywhere or say anything about it; all confidential. That night I got a call and said that I would need to audition…And it would involve dancing. HUH?? They said that you didn’t actually need to be a dancer – Just move naturally, like you normally would with music. I’m like, ‘what the heck am I auditioning for?’ This is involving Taylor? What is this all about? Is she even going to be there? What is this exactly?? I talked it over with my parents and they were cool with it, since they know what an inspiration Taylor Swift is to me and how much I love her. The catch was that it was the very next day, so that didn’t give us a lot of time. It was now or never. I chose now and I jumped. But, I was SO nervous and anxious about the entire thing.</div>
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They gave me all the details for the next morning, and I couldn’t wrap my mind around it. Everything had happened so fast; being reached out to by Taylor’s people, auditioning…That’s the kind of things that dreams are made of, but I still had no idea what was going on. Auditioning for major projects was something I had always dreamed about doing. Especially in high school when I really thought I was going to be an actor or do something on that side of the business. But, here the opportunity was in front of me and suddenly I was freaked out. Technically, “fan club members” didn’t have to be there until 2:45, but since we had made such good timing and didn’t have any other plans, we went straight to the casting agency. We rode the elevator upstairs and there were several dogs in the front waiting room – I forget that they have to go through the same rejection humans do going on auditions! HA. JK. I told them I was there for Project Cardinal, and they pointed me to a waiting room in the back. There were a few people waiting, but they had told us to be extremely quiet and not to talk about the “talent” that was involved, as there were also professional dancers involved who didn’t know what they were auditioning for. There was only one other girl waiting for this particular audition when I showed up. I showed the girl at the desk the email I had received and checked in. I took a seat next to the other girl and assumed that she was a fan, but we couldn’t talk about any of it. She just asked if I had ever done this before. The girl at the desk also asked if we had done anything like this before and we both said no. I told her that I had done a lot of stuff in high school, but never anything professional on this level. Both of us were nervous. So, the lady at the check-in desk just told us to have fun with it and smile. Finally, a few dancers walked out of the room we were to go in, and we were next! AH! I had no idea what to expect or how long it would last really.</div>
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We set our stuff down and the two that were in charge immediately started talking about what we were going to do. We were going to listen to a short clip; dancing together, then each of us would dance alone. They took a picture of each of us, then told us to say our name into the camera. WHOA! We’re talking the real deal. Then, it was go time. The music started and I just moved back and forth, feeling the music; nothing fancy, but also not just standing there either. I was trying to remember to smile and to just have fun with it, instead of taking it so seriously. All in all, I was pretty happy with how I did. I thought they might say when we’d be hearing back about it, but that was it. I met mom in the hallway, and we walked back to our car. The rest of the day was just spent around Hollywood. We tried to make it to the Annenberg Space for Photography for their new country music exhibit, but that didn’t work out. LONG story and not relevant.</div>
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All in all, I was happy with the way the audition went, but I was extremely anxious about the outcome. Even though I had no idea what it was for specifically, it was something HUGE and Taylor related, so I knew I would want to be part of it. I felt good, confident, dressed up a little for the part, and just enjoyed whatever the process was for (even if I didn’t end up getting picked). At least I had the opportunity, right? But, I still kept playing it over and over in my head, wondering if there was more I could have done or whether I would get picked. Or was everyone getting picked? Suddenly, I had never wanted something so bad. And then, last Friday afternoon, while shopping at Hobby Lobby, I missed a call from the Los Angeles area. I called it back just moments later, and the guy from Taylor Nation told me that I was officially booked for “Project Cardinal.” I couldn’t believe it. I wouldn’t find out any other details until the night before the shoot, until then I was just really counting down the days. For a planner like me, it was driving me up the wall to not be able to do anything or know anything to get ready for this big opportunity. GAH. But, it was a process of letting go.</div>
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Last night, I finally received the email that included everything from wardrobe to call time and where the studio was. It was taking place at Chandler Valley Studios, which sounded SO familiar, but for some reason I couldn’t place. I had mentioned that I thought it might end up being in the area where The Office filmed, but wasn’t totally sure. In the meantime, the email had me panicking around 6:30 or 7; going through everything in my closet trying to find something to wear, as well as several other options like it called for. After eating dinner and doing the dishes, I ran out to (hopefully) find something that might catch my eye. I ended up finding a really nice green dress and decided to wear that with a jean jacket and short brown boots. I finished gathering everything together and put it all in a bag. I was ready to go and so nervous I felt like I could throw up, but so excited and curious all at the same time. What in the world would we be doing?</div>
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Alright, so now you’re all caught up to speed, which brings us to today, Wed. June 25. One of the single greatest days of my entire 22 years of life. After barely sleeping a wink last night; my mind filled with daydreams and concerns, just not being tired, and watching Glee, I woke up at 4 a.m. Apparently my mom couldn’t hear her alarm, so I had to wake her up, then we got ready. I put on my makeup, straightened my hair, and put on my best dress…Then off we went. At 5 a.m, we were ready to go. I made sure I had everything (though we did have to turn around to go back for something), then we grabbed breakfast at Jack in the Box and hit the road. For being so early, there was actually a lot of traffic on the road, and the sun was still coming up. It was very bizarre to be up so early, and I was still trying to wake up. We listened to music (and a few unreleased songs from T. Swift) and made our trek into LA.</div>
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My mom and I made it to the studio much earlier than we thought, because there wasn’t much traffic…and guess what?? It was the studio where they filmed The Office at Chandler Valley Studio. It was no wonder the street and studio name sounded so familiar…We had checked it out last year, so we were semi familiar with the area, and it eased my mind about where to go, since there are only about two gates, which were clearly labeled as to where we were supposed to enter. After waiting around for a bit, we decided to drive around, so my mom could find something to do while I was on the shoot all day. But we quickly found that there was nothing in the area. After driving awhile, we stopped at Carl’s Jr. used the restroom, then headed back to the studio to just wait in the parking lot. Several people were starting to show and waited in their cars, either touching up their makeup or just not ready to go yet. I saw several people starting to walk up to the gate; a line forming, so I decided to go that way. I grabbed my suitcase of clothes and said goodbye to my mom, also leaving my phone behind.</div>
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I got in line; a little paranoid about what to expect and how everything was going to work. Everything has been SO secretive, no one wanted to say anything, in case the other people around us weren’t aware. It also freaked me out when one of the guys on the crew said, “You guys are here for Aaron Carter, right?” UHHH NO, I hope not! HAHA. Luckily, he was just kidding LOL. I quickly made friends with the girl behind me, Molly, and we started talking about the project when we both realized we were Taylor fans, the audition and also our majors in school, which helped the time pass off pretty quickly. Luckily, it was also still pretty cool out, so the denim jacket I was wearing was appropriate. Soon, they started checking people in, so we could fill out release forms and all that fun “official” stuff. We got badges with our names on it and a cardinal in the background, and were to wear those around all day, so it proved who we were and would grant us access when needed. We all gathered in a large soundstage that was complete with a green screen of some sort and a trampoline, along with makeup and snack tables set up. I was in awe of everything. There was so much action and the day was still young. We all took a seat and finished filling out our paperwork and started chatting with one another. Before we had all finished filling out our forms, they needed all of us to be approved by wardrobe, so we walked outside and around the building to one of the trailers (which was where most of the parking lot scenes took place on The Office), and I was geeking out about that. We made it to wardrobe and the stylists walked down the line approving outfits. They said mine was “Perfect” and “Great” and I was “good to go.” I was so relieved, because I’d been worried that I’d have to find another outfit, and was crossing my fingers that the other stuff I had would work out, then we headed back inside.</div>
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After finishing the forms, we turned them in and lined up to take a picture with our number that we were in line. I was 19. When we were done, we went back inside to the soundstage to hang out. That’s when I got a chance to talk to one of the other girls near me (I’m sad I didn’t catch her name), and let’s just say my journalism skills were coming in handy, because I was so fascinated by everything and everyone around me. I wanted to get to know them all. Anyway, the girl told me all about her time in New York and some of the other auditions she had been on back there, and that she moved to LA to do more TV/film. I was also able to start talking to some other friends of mine, Maddy and Lisa, that I didn’t realize would be there (since we were all sworn to secrecy, it wasn’t something to broadcast on Facebook or Twitter..Or ANYWHERE for that matter) about the weather, since they’re all from different states, including Nashville. After awhile, they had all of us line up and they were filming us/taking pictures. A security guard came in and asked us to come in closer so he could talk to us for a few minutes to fill us in on what we would be doing. He said it was our last chance to admit whether we had phones or not, because it was a very serious thing if we were taking pictures and putting things out in the public. I obviously did not. We signed agreements saying that we wouldn’t talk about it, etc. Then, he started saying that this is a music video shoot and Taylor would be there, so even though a lot of us were super fans, we needed to be professional. We were being paid for a job, so it was still important that we actually do that without getting too carried away. We were all whispering amongst ourselves, like…AHHHH! Can you believe it??</div>
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Soon after, the makeup artists started coming over to see if anyone wanted to get their makeup done. One of the ladies asked if I wanted mine done. Although I had done it in the morning, it had been a few hours, so I thought I could use a bit of a touch up, especially in case we would be on camera later on. Plus, I was on an actual set with people who do this all the time! I was going to live it up. So, she put some of her fancy makeup on me with the good brushes and creamy foundation, using one of the sponge eggs. You know, I had been wondering how people could do this all the time, dealing with rejection and just all of the intensity of working on a set, but after experiencing everything today, I can easily see why. While I was still in the chair, they said it was time to go to our actual location for the video shoot, and started lining everyone up. They were only waiting on me and one other girl, so the makeup artist quickly finished my makeup, and I was free to go. The friends I had made earlier were near the front of the line, but I couldn’t find them at the time, so I just ducked in at the end, and actually ended up standing next to the girl I auditioned with. We started talking as we walked over to our next location, and couldn’t believe everything that was happening. We both agreed that it was a bucket list moment.</div>
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We made it to the main building, which was “Dunder Mifflin” on The Office, and walked through the large elephant doors as they’re called. There was a lot of commotion as we made our way further inside. A bright white backdrop was all around, as we looked straight ahead and a large white stage was set up in the middle of it. Around the area, cameras and crew were setting up equipment and figuring out how it was going to go. They made us squish in close as much as we could, then they brought a group up on stage to start getting things going. As they were positioning things and getting it all just right, the rest of us on the floor were just waiting around and chatting with one another, though we had to keep the noise to a minimum so everyone could focus on what they needed to. I talked with my new friend, Molly, a bit as we waited for instruction. One of the crew guys was also extremely hilarious. He had this dry wit and a lot of sarcasm, so he was chatting with us and keeping it fun.</div>
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Maybe 15 minutes later, I heard a voice talking that I was very familiar with, but couldn’t see because I was blocked by a piece of equipment. When the blonde girl came around the corner, I saw that I was correct and it was Taylor Swift herself. She was very Audrey Hepburn in all black, her hair sleek and makeup to perfection. She looked like a true model. She said hi and introduced herself. That first moment when you see her is always just kind of like, ‘are you even real?’</div>
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“Hi! I’m Taylor,” she waved, and got down to business. “So, do they know what they’re here for?” she asked her creative team. “Do you guys know what you’re here for?” We shook our heads, like not really. “Well, do you want to know?” We all say yes, so she looks to a few of the crew guys and asks if they want to explain. They responded with, “Why don’t you do it? You know it better than anyone,” so she did. And she announced that it was the music video for the first single of the fifth album! AHHHHHHHH. She explained that over the past couple (really more of the past seven years of her life) have been under a microscope and that someone always has something to say. You know, the cynics and the critics. The haters. But, she’s had to learn to deal with it and get past it, so she wrote a song called “Shake It Off.” She said that we would be hearing it for the first time, and that we would probably hear it so much to the point of being sick of it, and then we’d be really excited again when the song came out. She then told us about the premise for the video and how she was going to put herself into several awkward situations and be that one guy who just dances awful. Everyone emphasized for all of us to have fun and to just let go; don’t try to look cool. Taylor even joked that no one could be a worse dancer than her. She pointed out the director, and then also explained what a BIG secret this is and how she’s trusting us to not put it out there until the video is out and then we could tell anyone about anything. Taylor explained that this is the biggest video shoot she’s ever done and that it is also the biggest secret in her life right now, and is pretty much taking up all the space in her mind. So, in case we didn’t know before, this was a BIG DEAL. After she walked us through the process and painted a picture of what the rest of the video would be like, she joined the first group on stage, while the rest of us waited down below, completely mesmerized by everything she was doing.</div>
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I absolutely love how hands on she is with everything; asking questions, checking on details with the rest of the team, introducing herself to all of the extras on set (like she really needs to at this point – and that speaks volumes), and having a vision for what she wants, without being a diva or rude just to get her point across. To see her in her element, working behind-the-scenes was a dream come true. The cameras started rolling and the song was blasting through the speakers, as everyone started dancing around. At first, I’ll be honest that I couldn’t tell it was Taylor singing, and then it hit me that this was the new song. It all hit at once, watching the dancers on stage as she shakes and shimmies on stage and sings along to the new single. I LOST THE ABILITY TO EVEN. I was trying so hard not to cry, but it wasn’t working. I was turning into a total girl, and trying not to ruin my makeup in the process. Taylor kind of has that effect on me, because I’ve been there from the very beginning. To see where she is now, I couldn’t be more proud. Everyone looked like they were having the time of their lives up there with her, which was just so cool to see. Back to the song. I wasn’t really sure how I was going to feel about it. But, kind of like “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” (which grew on me very quickly), I couldn’t help but like it. I loved the message and you couldn’t help but dance to it. And after today, it will always hold a special place in my heart. And it’s very summer anthem-y.</div>
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Nothing like this has really ever been done to my knowledge, or at least by Taylor, so to be part of something so special is insane. I don’t think I will ever fully wrap my mind around it, nor will I ever be able to put into words just how cool this experience was. But, I sure do hope that everyone gets to have a special day with their idol or Taylor herself. Then, Taylor started going down the line and giving everyone hugs and chatting with them here and there.</div>
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Finally, they rounded up another group of about 30 to bring on stage. I was included in that, and I was dying of excitement. We all lined up and waited as Taylor watched the first playback to see how it turned. She was incredibly excited with the footage from the sounds of it, and was ready to get the next group up there. They positioned the next group on stage, and still needed a few more, so they added me later. By that time, I was on the very end, until they added one more girl on the other side of me. I talked to the girl on my left for a few minutes and she asked if I was a Taylor Swift fan and I was like, “oh yeah.” She laughed, then said something like, “I could tell, because you’re like,” and demonstrated my face/ the way I was acting. HAHA. I wasn’t acting crazy, but I think she could tell I was in the zone of some sort. I was just really excited, and I didn’t care who knew it. I mean, isn’t she what we were all there for??</div>
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Taylor hopped back on the stage and started making her way through the line; shaking hands and chatting with people, as she introduced herself. She always somehow finds common ground with everyone, and so effortlessly too. She then made her way over to the end, and I couldn’t believe that she was standing right in front of me, as I’m standing on the set to her music video. Kind of crazy how life works out sometimes, am I right? It had been years since we last met, so I didn’t expect her to remember me, I was just happy to be chatting with her again. She said, “Hi, I’m Taylor,” and I don’t think I even said my name…I just said hi, because I was so excited. Totally dumb of me LOL. Then, I said, “I just want to say that you’re the number one person on my list of people to interview, because I’m a journalism major.” She’s like, “Wow. That is so cool, thank you so much. And good luck with everything.” I responded with, “Thank you. You’re like my idol,” and she thanked me again, ever so sincerely. I know that sounds lame, because people are probably like, ‘yeah, sure she did, whatever. She hears stuff like that all the time.’ Yes, you’re probably right. But, everything Taylor does is genuine, so when she says something, you know she means it from the bottom of her heart and truly wishes you the best. I’m pretty sure she thanked me for being there, which I said was no problem, of course. As she was starting to walk away, I said, “So, maybe I’ll see you again someday,” and she looked me in the eye and said, “Probably,” with a matter-of-fact tone to her voice, “I run into a lot of journalists,” she laughed. I just said “That’s true,” and that was that. But, now she knows. From her lips to God ears…I’m sure it’ll happen someday.</div>
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When she was done greeting with everyone, she hopped to her place in the middle of the line and they talked over a few things with us before we started shooting. They just kept reminding us to have fun with it and to do the little “Shake It Off” dance, if we wanted to. The music started playing and it was showtime. I can’t believe how fun it was to just not care and dance in front of a ton of people; fans, professional dancers, and crew. It’s not like I was dancing hardcore or anything, but I was moving a lot more than I would have in the past HAH! I was wearing a denim jacket, so it was getting pretty toasty from all of the lights, but what a blast it was dancing on stage with T. Swift, as she’d work her way down the line. Now, hopefully they keep the shot where she walks by me <span class="wp-smiley emoji emoji-wink" style="background-image: none; border: none; display: inline-block !important; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; min-height: 1.2em; outline: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding: 0px; position: relative !important; text-indent: 9999px; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap; width: 1.35em;" title=";)">;)</span> LOL. Pretty soon, our time was over, so they walked us off to the side, and decided to take us outside, as the last group went in. I just kept thinking, uh, can we do that again? Cause it was SO FUN!</div>
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We all walked outside and ended up waiting for quite awhile. I hung out with Molly, and we talked about the video, some Taylor related things and of course, speculating when the video might be out. After waiting awhile, the sun was starting to beat down on us a lot, and we were starting to get hungry, but we weren’t sure whether we could have snacks, so we just waited around. Awhile later, they escorted us back into the soundstage, but this time it was just for the selected few that Taylor’s team had picked out. We all watched on as they did their thing, and I thought Taylor had left already, because we didn’t see her. But, she was behind the director’s chair watching every move and calling the shots. A little later, we split into two groups, “Project Cardinal,” which was Taylor’s fan club and “Project Sparrow,” which was made up of the professional dancers, so that we could take group pictures with Taylor. We all squeezed in with one another, then Taylor hopped in. Although, I felt like I wasn’t going to be seen, because the girl in front of me was just short enough that I thought she might block my face! HA. The photographer said it came out great, so I’m crossing my fingers that it really did. Then, Taylor talked with us for a few minutes and said that we were all “absolutely killing it” and she was excited with the way it was turning out. She also talked about Ed Sheeran’s new album, and how his sales had really been improving and that we should go buy it, because it’s incredible. And then we should go buy it and tell all of our friends and be really obnoxious about it, like she’s been doing. “And we don’t illegally download music either, do we?” she asked. “We buy it.” So, once I get my paycheck, I will probably try to pick up the album. I mean Taylor recommended it and all. She thanked us all again for coming out, and moved to the next group. We were all dismissed after that; Taylor left and said that she would be back later (probably for the shots she was doing by herself) and we all stayed behind to watch the single dancers they had picked out.</div>
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A few minutes later, they moved our group over because someone wanted to talk to us apparently, and it was Andrea, Taylor’s mom. She was thanking all of us for coming out and supporting Taylor, and she knows that they had asked us a million times to keep it quiet, so they were trusting us with that information, etc. She also mentioned that if we saw anything being said online that we had all the contacts and we could let someone know so they could shut it down. She also mentioned that once the project is released, they will send us a copy of our picture with Taylor and new merch. We couldn’t believe it. We thanked her for everything, then she took off. The solo dancers were starting to be called up again (including my friend, Maddy–WOO!), and the rest of us stood by from the side. We moved closer to the center of the stage to watch them and give “encouragement” with clapping and cheering. I start to get low blood sugar, if I haven’t eaten for awhile; I think I’m borderline anemic…But, I digress. I thought there was a slight second where I thought I might just need to sit down, but instead, I tried to pump myself up again, everything was good. We weren’t inside much longer, before they said that we’d be done in a few minutes. I took in the last few sights of everything, then followed the rest of the group outside.</div>
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We headed into the other soundstage, where we had left all of our stuff earlier. Some were grabbing food, because we were all so hungry and thirsty, while others were getting their belongings together and just sitting down. Those in charge told us that we were officially wrapped, to which we all cheered and hollered. I had just wrapped my first big project with my favorite artist…HOW DOES THAT EVEN HAPPEN?? But, I was completely wiped out, and still needed to figure out a way to call my mom since I wasn’t allowed to have my phone all day. So, I gathered all of my stuff together and decided to check out. I used someone’s phone and let my mom know that I was done, and she had just made it to the IKEA in Burbank…Oops! I went back to change into something cooler, because the jean jacket was warm and it was HOT outside. It was a good thing I had those options after all. I grabbed a diet coke, and turned my badge in, although I was sad because it would make such a cool memento. I decided to just wait outside, as the chaos inside died down, and ended up running into a girl I kept seeing inside all day, that I hadn’t gotten a chance to talk to.</div>
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I decided to just start talking with her, because I was trying to make the most of today and thought that I might not ever get a chance to see again. Her name was Kira and she kind of reminded me of Hailee Steinfeld. We talked about how incredible the day was and our love for Taylor. I told her how I had been a fan from the beginning, and she commented that must be really rewarding to see where she’s at in her career now. I hadn’t really thought about it much, but after she said that, it made me stop to think of where both of us were when she started and it’s just crazy to see how her success has blown up, and if anything, she’s even more kind and considerate now. Kira also told me that she’s a singer/songwriter and gave me her business card, so we could keep in touch and possibly collaborate on something for my blog. Then her mom picked her up and I waited. Without my phone all day, I actually had a chance to observe my surroundings a little more closely. Luckily, it wasn’t a very long wait, then my mom picked me up.</div>
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I was pinching myself the entire way home. And the rest of the night.</div>
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We had lunch at Barone’s after (also used in The Office episode, Michael’s Last Dundies), because my mom hadn’t eaten anything either and we were both STARVING. It was so good, but I was SO hungry at that point and everything was such a blur that I don’t totally remember how the food tasted. But, the ambiance was fantastic, like an old smokehouse/classic style bar.</div>
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In all honesty, I don’t think everything will sink in until I actually see the video. It still seems like a total dream. I will never be able to thank Taylor enough for all of the incredible experiences I’ve been able to have with her from holding her very first award/meeting her in 2007 to the T-Party Room and now. No one else embraces the fans like she does. NO ONE. Because who else is going to invite you to their New York or Nashville apartment to have dinner or random dancing parties? I sure can’t think of anyone else.</div>
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It’s kind of surreal…But, I can’t wait to see where this next “era” takes all of us. Here’s to new memories.</div>
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That’s all for now,</div>
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Shelby <span class="wp-smiley emoji emoji-smile" style="background-image: none; border: none; display: inline-block !important; font-family: inherit; font-style: inherit; margin: 0px; min-height: 1.2em; outline: 0px; overflow: hidden; padding: 0px; position: relative !important; text-indent: 9999px; vertical-align: bottom; white-space: nowrap; width: 1.35em;" title=":)">:)</span></div>
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Shelby Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06268445001108188260noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3879977333713136014.post-77968847349238019172014-08-28T12:17:00.003-07:002014-08-28T12:17:51.591-07:00Losing TimeThe last couple weeks, I've been making a mental list of all the things that I've wanted to get done.<br />
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<li>Clean out my closet</li>
<li>Get crafty with magazines and Pinterest things</li>
<li>Finish stories I've been working on</li>
<li>Get started on work for some classes</li>
<li>Edit the movie clips I've shot recently</li>
<li>Get my hair cut</li>
<li>Set up interviews</li>
<li>Write my article for the paper </li>
<li>Finish Friday Night Lights on Netflix</li>
<li>Start applying for jobs/start looking into other online sites to write for</li>
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At the beginning of the summer, I took several weeks to just have some "me time." I slept in, I watched TV, I didn't write much of anything, I listened to music and I hung out with Taylor Swift for a day. If that's not relaxing, I don't know what is. My mind was clear and I felt great; ready to take on the world. It was exactly what I'd been craving. </div>
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Then, all of a sudden, things were picking up again. I was doing interviews, I was writing stories, we started having meetings for the paper, then there's been plenty that I needed to get ready for school with textbooks, etc. I'm starting to feel like I need another vacation and I don't want to be worn out before I start classes again. I think I've just been spending too much time online/on my phone. After awhile, I just feel sort of numb to everything...Blahhhhh. Sometimes you just need to tune out all of the noise. Or at least I do. Otherwise, I start to feel a little overwhelmed. Now, I have about 2-3 weeks before school starts, and I know they're going to fly by. Here's to making them count. </div>
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I better get back to my "to do list"...*Sigh* Maybe I'll go on a bike ride or do something to clear my mind and gain some perspective. </div>
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That's all for now,</div>
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Shelby :)</div>
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Shelby Nicolehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06268445001108188260noreply@blogger.com0