My Beauty Routine

 1. CoverGirl (cgsmoothers) BB Cream//805 fair to light

2. CoverGirl trublend 

3. CoverGirl clean powder compact// 210 classic ivory

4. CoverGirl blush compact// 590 soft mink

5. Maybelline New York Unstoppable eyeliner// Onyx

6. Maybelline Great Lash// Lots of Lashes

7. sponge/Mac Foundation brush/ Bare Essentials powder brush

8. Urban Decay eyeshadow palette// Naked 2 

9. Victoria's Secret Shiny lip gloss//Kiss flavored

Maybelline lip stick//895 On Fire Red

All very basic and affordable makeup that I use. I have switched around to different brands and products over the years, but I tend to stick with Covergirl for my basic products like foundation and powder, because it's cheaper and has a lot of coverage. I highly recommend giving them a try if you're looking for something new or have never tried them before. You'd be surprised at a lot of the drugstore finds and just how well they work.

The only thing I've splurged for on makeup in awhile is the Naked 2 palette, but definitely worth it. I hardly ever wear eyeshadow, but wanted to start experimenting with it, and I LOVE mine now; wearing it daily. Let me tell you, they will last you forever...Fun to mix, match and play around with too. 

That's all for now,

Shelby

Music Monday

Now Playing:

I really liked Luke Bryan when he first came out, and not that many people really knew who he was! My family and I saw him at The Opry and it seemed like he kept showing up everywhere we went in Nashville... I even "met" him a few times during CMA Fest week a couple years in a row. But, after awhile, to me, it just seemed like all of his music sounded the same and was typically about all the drinking/partying, so I was just over that. And I think the fact that all of a sudden everyone seemed to go on about him like he was the greatest thing ever started to annoy me. 

Well, lately, I've sort of gotten into him again! He has catchy lyrics, even if they are a tad cliche...they're the perfect tracks for summer; great to turn up and just drive around town to! I don't have the money to pick up his albums right now, but I started listening to them on Spotify, and I'm liking them a lot. I especially love how many slow songs he includes.

Favorite Tracks (Tailgates & Tanlines):
Been there, Done That
I Know You're Gonna Be There
Faded Away
I Knew You That Way

Favorite Tracks (Crash My Party):
We Run This Town
I See You
Goodbye Girl
Play It Again
Shut It Down
Dirt Road Diary

But, that's my latest music crush/obsession! 

That's all for now,

Shelby

Who's one artist you can't stop listening to right now? Favorite songs of the moment?

Share them with me in the comments below or on Twitter (@ShelbyN92) :) I'd love to hear from you!

30 Things Challenge

I found this challenge on another blog I read, and decided I would give it a try! So, here goes nothin'. 

Day one:

List 20 Random Facts about yourself.

All of a sudden, this seems more daunting than I thought it would be....

• (1) When I'm bored, I like to go through Twitter and see who people follow..."Just a creepin'.."
• (2) I've never held a baby and I've never had a sip of alcohol or had a cigarette in my life...People find the baby and alcohol thing weird. 
• (3) I plan to move to Nashville someday to put my journalism degree to use for something like GAC or Nashville Lifestyle magazine. 
• (4) I want to marry a country boy (Chris Young, I'm available...*cough, cough*)
• (5) Making lists is one of my favorite things to do, and also making collages of anything and everything.
• (6) Coffee and sweet tea are my saving graces.
• (7) My Grand Ole Opry Takamine guitar's name is Daisy
• (8) I have an obsession with washi tape right now.
• (9) I dream of the day when I'll have my own house with a wraparound porch and rocking chairs, with my border collie, Luke, keeping me company.
• (10) I have a fascination with diners. I want to take a road trip someday to visit random ones all across America.
• (11) I've auditioned for American Idol twice online, but never made the cut.
• (12) One of my biggest dreams is to be in a movie someday, especially for Warner Brothers! They're my favorite!
• (13) Some of my favorite moments come from my entire family being together; playing games, eating dinner, laughing, the occasional Taylor Swift music video that I make them do and just being our crazy selves. I've always wanted a "Full House."  
• (14) The number one person I'd love to sit down with and interview someday is Taylor Swift. I just think she's fabulous!
• (15) If I could be on any show at the moment, it would be Glee.
• (16) I would love to take an art or cooking class! I think it would be something fun to try.
• (17) I've wanted to go to Australia since I was 10.
• (18) I have a thing for taking pictures of stage spotlights and clouds...
• (19) I document everything--videos, instagram, Twitter, blog, journaling, whatever! I am the girl who takes pictures of her food.
• (20) I'm a country girl at heart. As much as I love the city, I think I would've fit in much better in the south. 

I guess I'll start with Friday for this "Weekend Review"...It was basically the normal routine of running errands with my mom. We went to the bank, got the car washed, and decided to have lunch at Mexicali (one of our family's favorite restaurants) downtown. After that, we were going to hit a couple antique stores nearby, but the one we really wanted to go in was closed down...Boo :( We went into one, but they were a little pricey, so we weren't there very long. I wasn't ready to go home just yet, so we ended up running to a couple places, so my mom and I could find something to Taylor Swift's concert this week! AH! I didn't have much luck, but my mom did...After that, we headed home. The rest of the afternoon was pretty simple. 

Friday night, I sat out on the porch for a little while, while my mom got dinner ready on the BBQ! It was a perfect evening, and I never go in the backyard hardly, so I decided to change things up a little. The sun was setting and there was a slight breeze in the air, which was much nicer than during the day. All of a sudden, it's like I time traveled to the future...and my mind gets away from me, worrying about things that are not in my control and asking myself, "Have I really lived?" Don't get me wrong, I've been able to do so much, but I feel like most of it has been from the outside looking in. I feel like there's still so much I need to get out there and experience for myself. I guess starting the university in the fall will be a really good thing for me, in more ways than one. I think it'll help push me to get more involved and to meet new people! I think I need that more than anything right now. I am way too comfortable with where life is at, and it's getting old. 

 Then, I went inside and had dinner with my parents, trying to push the latter out of my mind. 

New boards I got from Target to use for inspiration; planning, quotes, some of my favorite people, and whatever else my heart desires!

Saturday:

I woke up really sick (AGAIN), earlier Saturday morning, which wasn't really a surprise. I took some medicine and tried to get back to sleep, but it wasn't working, so I just got on my phone; reading through Twitter and staring at the ceiling. When I heard my mom was up, I went out to the living room and watched music videos on CMT, and my mom made me some hot tea. I thought I was feeling okay, but then the sickness hit again...I was groggy and tired most of the day, but I was itching to go somewhere. I went out to lunch with my parents and we went to Forever 21, so I could find something to wear to the Taylor concert, and I think I found the perfect outfit! 

We went home after that, and I was totally wiped out and annoyed with the mall. I had planned on going somewhere, since I still hadn't been anywhere by myself since I got my license, but I ended up falling asleep on the chair...And watching Noteworthy at The Opry (even though I'd seen them several times before). A little later, my dad suggested going to the movies with some family friends, so we all went to see "Planes," which was ADORABLE! I seriously think that I loved it better than cars. Because of the message, I found myself relating so much to the little cropduster plane; knowing he's made for so much more, but starts to listen to the people around him, telling him that he's just this or that, and should stick to what he knows. 

When the movie was over, we decided to have dinner at Chipotle, and luckily, there was no one there. We sat on the patio; talked and ate, and even saw several bunnies nibbling on grass, that were so cute. It was almost like they kept multiplying while we were out there! HA! After sitting outside for awhile, my dad wanted dessert, so we found ourselves going to one of the local ice cream shops. And even though I kept saying I wouldn't get anything, I got toffee, which is my favorite! 

We weren't there for very long, and talked a little in the parking lot, then headed home...I couldn't believe it was already 11:30! Time flies when you're having fun, I guess :)

Could it possibly have to do with meeting Taylor Swift? Because I will take it ;)

Sunday:

Sunday was a strange day! It seemed like the morning was a bit more rushed than usual, but eventually we made it to church. The message was on anxiety, and I think I needed to hear it now more than ever! I have been way too anxious over everything lately and need to stop letting it all get to me. So, I'll be hanging on to the handout, especially during the school year as a reminder to just let it go and meditate on God's word, instead of focusing on my problems. 

After church, we had lunch at Chuy's, then came home for a little while. That's when I finally decided to take my first little excursion by myself and drove to my friend's school to help out with her classroom for a bit. I was so nervous, yet ready for it. "Life is a Highway," was playing as I pulled onto the street and I couldn't help but let out a little girlish squeal. I couldn't believe I was actually going somewhere completely by myself...That has never, ever happened before. Usually I'm with a relative or a friend, and have to get dropped off. But, it was the coolest thing in the world to be completely by myself and to be the one in control of the steering wheel. AH!

 I helped Mandy out in her classroom a little, but there weren't many things to do (since school started today), so I just helped her making a list of last minute things she'd need to do this week and we talked the rest of the time. She's several years older than me, so she has always been able to help me through the big transitions in my life; going to college, driving, etc, because she's been there before. It's nice to have someone closer in age to get advice from. She's like an older sister to me! 

A couple hours later, we headed out and I went home. This time, it felt more natural to be by myself, but it's still going to take some time getting used to. And then I heard, "Highway Don't Care" come on...which was a little more unsettling than my perfect moment earlier in the day. So, I just kept singing along and paying closer attention to the road, because I did not want to end up like the girl in the video, if you know what I mean. A few minutes later, Jason Aldean came on with, "Crazy Town," and it just had me thinking about how I'm one step closer to living out my dream. It'll still be awhile, but you have to start somewhere, right? And I'm FINALLY making some actual progress. Right now, I just feel really high on life!! :D.

Let me tell you, there's nothing like being behind the wheel, listening to country music and thinking about life as you drive. It's probably one of my new favorite things. 

I got home, talked to my family a little on Skype (for our weekly call), then watched Parenthood on Netflix, because I need to catch up before the end of next month. We went out to dinner awhile later, and because it was still daylight out, I suggested just riding around, because we tend to do that a lot around here. There's not much to do other than shopping or a movie, so we drove...In my heart, I know I won't be in this city forever, so riding around to all of the beautiful spots reminds me to soak it up while I can. These are the moments I want to remember, and realize how special they are while I'm living them. I don't want to wake up one day to realize I missed out on something really great. We drove to my dad's old neighborhood, and I love hearing his stories about growing up or some of his friends, or the ones that include my grandma, because it meant she was still around. 

We came home, and I decided to walk out on the back porch. I can't get enough of these summer nights. The moon had this really incredible glow that seemed to light up our backyard. I was in awe of the stars and everything that God has created. It reminds me of how small I am, and how big God is. All of that simply meaning, there's nothing He can't handle. My dad joined me a few minutes later and we talked about some of the exciting things coming up in the next couple weeks, which led to life. And in just a matter of minutes, I sure can freak myself out about everything. But, it was good to hear his perspective on things. Gotta love our Wonder Years moments! HA!

I had a mini breakdown, because I think it's healthy to just let it out once in awhile, then went inside to watch Jeopardy. So, I'm basically 80 years old ;) Yay me! 

And that was my weekend! Time to start gearing up for the Taylor Swift concert tomorrow! AHHHH!

That's all for now,

Shelby :)

Weekend of Music

As I said in my last blog, Thursday night, I went to F.Y.E and found a ton of CD's with my aunt, because they were all buy one get one half off. They have new and old CD's, and just about everything in between. If you're looking for something that might be a little more rare, I'd definitely check it out; you never know what you'll find. So many things caught my eye that even if I hadn't wanted it, I was reminded of all the music I used to listen to or some of the things I wanted to get into.

1. Keith Urban in The Ranch//

I had listened to this awhile back on Spotify and really loved the sound! I'm a HUGE Keith Urban fan already, and seeing as these are his earlier days, it'll be interesting to see how much he has grown or improved as an artist.

2. Backstreet Boys//

My aunt had actually picked this up for me the day before when she went, because she didn't know whether I had it or not. I think I might've at some point in the 90s, but being the queen of losing everything, I couldn't tell you where it is. This was the album that started it all, as it was their self-titled debut, so it has a lot of their most well known hits and a few others. I'm so excited to relive all of the fun memories of rocking out to these guys, complete with dance moves and sweet harmonies. 

3. Katy Perry//

I just really love Katy Perry; her style, her music, her personality...Everything. I don't own any of her CD's, just a ton of songs on my ipod that I've downloaded from iTunes, so I was so incredibly happy that I was able to pick up a copy of "Teenage Dream".

4. Glee Season 3, Volume 7//

This one, like all of the other Glee soundtracks has quite the variety of songs on it, depending on the character who sang it or the decade it was from. It includes the hits like, "Last Friday Night", "Red Solo Cup", "Tonight," and "Rumour Has It." I was so excited to see they had so many Glee records on sale, so it was hard narrowing down which ones were best.

5. Glee Season 1, Volume 2//

Because this is when the show was just starting out, the songs are a little more classic, like, "Imagine," "True Colors," "And I'm Telling You I'm Not Going" and "Don't Rain On My Parade."

6. Leann Rimes//

"Sittin On Top of the World" was probably my favorite Leann Rimes album when I was younger. It felt like the first CD that was perfect for her age, and there were so many great catchy songs that just made you feel good. She was my idol growing up and is still one of biggest musical inspirations! SO glad I found this one, because I seem to have misplaced the copy I once had...Oops!

7. Jason Aldean//

As soon as I walked in the store, my aunt pointed out Jason's CD, "Night Train", which I've been hearing really good things about. I really like Jason's music and have become a bigger fan in more recent years, so I've been wanting to pick this up at some point or at least get a few of my favorites from iTunes. Needless to say, I was probably most excited about this one..He is one heck of a performer and has a lot of great 'rockin' songs, but I love nothing more than a good love song/ballad of his; it just really tugs at your heart strings. I'm kind of a sucker for any good country ballad anyway, but I love his voice when he pours into a slower song, instead of all the new rap country he's been doing lately.

8. 13 Going On 30//

This is one of my favorite movies of all time. I think it came out around the time I was turning 13, so it'll always hold a special place in my heart just for that alone. I've wanted this soundtrack FOREVER, but there was always something more current or recent out that I'd always end up wanting more. But, I was SO excited when I saw this copy just sitting on the shelf at the store and I knew I HAD to get it. There are so many great classic 80s songs, like, "Crazy For You" by Madonna and "Jessie's Girl" from Rick Springfield, as well as my favorite Billy Joel song, "Vienna" and another great modern hit, "Why Can't I?" by Liz Phair. AH! I'm replaying all of my favorite scenes of the movie just thinking about it. 

9. A Walk To Remember//

This is probably my favorite movie of all time...Well, it might be tied with Titanic, but sometimes it's too close to call. Again, I've always wanted this soundtrack, but never got around to it. So, when my aunt saw this one, I started freaking out. I immediately grabbed it and started going through the songs, even though I pretty much had them memorized, thanks to the movie. There are so many obscure artists that have great music featured in the film, including Shane West's band and Mandy Moore. Also, I feel like I'm ready to start bawling just looking through the pictures of Jamie and Landon in the booklet of the CD...WAHHH! And I'm making a mental note that I need to watch it again very soon.

So, there are my purchases! I was very giddy walking out with a stack of new music, because you can never have too much right? My aunt gave me another stack of CD's that were in her car when she dropped me off, that I might feature just for the heck of it, too. Stay tuned on that!

That's all for now,

Shelby

Things I'm Loving...

(Photo courtesy of: Tasteofcountry.com)

This was probably Carrie's best production to date; complete with costume changes, a nice mixture of old and new songs, as well as phenomenal lighting and other surprises along the way, like a floating stage hovering over the audience! Her first live DVD gives those, who weren't able to attend a live show, a chance to see what all the hype was about. She definitely deserved an Entertainer of the Year nomination and should get one for the CMA's in November, because from the sounds of it, they've been flying off the shelves in its first week. What I love most about concert DVD's like this is that you get to see a lot of behind the scenes footage- the process of how the show comes together, what it's like before going on stage, and more. I wish there would've been more, but I'm glad we still got a quick glimpse of the fabulous life that Carrie leads. I highly recommend giving this a watch if you're a Carrie fan, a country fan, or even just a music fan in general. She is one of the best entertainers and singers of all time, and I don't think people fully understand how great she really is.

(photo courtesy of: drugstore.com)

I've had a really big obsession with red lipstick over the last year or so, but was always a little too afraid to try it out, because I don't really do anything too exciting or stand out-ish with my makeup. I like to stick to the basics. I was finally brave enough to try it out and fell in love with it. I fee so bold and daring, especially for a night out on the town. It's like an immediate confidence booster. The picture is of the "Red Revolution" color I bought from Maybelline's line.

(Photo courtesy of: Hawtcelebs.com)

Lea Michele has been the talk of Hollywood for the past month or so, since the passing of boyfriend, Cory Monteith. I've always thought she was incredibly talented, but wasn't always necessarily a huge fan. After re-watching the entire series again from beginning to now, I have a new appreciation for Lea, as well as her character, Rachel Berry, and can see her through fresh eyes. I love how determined and focused she was, but now, I admire her for her strength and how positive she seems to be, even in the midst of her grieving. I'm inspired by her work ethic and the fact that nothing is out of reach for her. She embraces who she is and what she looks like, and encourages others to do the same. I also love that she is very involved with charities and giving back. I really look up to her and will continue to support her in her future endeavors! Also looking forward to her book that's coming out in the very near future.

(Photo courtesy of: CentralMarket.com)

Cotton Candy grapes have always been big around my town, because that's where they're based out of, but apparently as of lately they have caught on to other parts of the country. I was actually friends with the daughter of the grapery's owner, in high school, but only just had them about a week or so ago. Recently, they've been getting a lot of attention, being featured on Ryan Seacrest's "On Air" radio show and Good Morning America. I'm not totally sure how or if you can order them living out of state, but if you're ever in California, you have to try them. Freakishly, they do taste like cotton candy, but not in a weird way; they still have the "grapeyness" taste in them. They are delicious and refreshing, especially for the summer months.

(Photo courtesy of: ChrisYoungCountry.com/store)

Back in June, during CMA Fest, I visited the Chris Young booth at the convention center. I was really bummed about not being able to meet him, but I thought I would pick up a little souvenir to make up for it. I didn't have much money left, so I was trying to find something cheaper, when I saw these "Aw Naw" neon sunglasses for 5$. I can be rough on glasses and tend to lose them a lot, so these were perfect for me. I bought the yellow pair and have worn them nonstop since I got them. They fit snug, which I love and I don't have to worry about them too much if I toss them into my purse, which works out nicely. I kind of want all the colors now!

(photo courtesy of: blog.alanamber.com)

Everyone by now knows my love for Glee, especially if you follow me on Twitter or Instagram. I am constantly posting something about this fabulous show. But, something that makes it so special is all of the incredible music that always fits so perfectly for whatever occasion or story line they're dealing with. I can't get enough of it, and I love how they tackle music from just about every genre and every decade. I've bought most of Cory's duets and solos, and I have several of the CD's. I don't know that I will ever own all of the music, because there's a ton, but I will definitely buy all of my favorites and make playlists according to the season and occasion.

(Photo courtesy of: Girlslife.com)

I know these might look a little silly, but I think "Thumb Wars" is onto a really great campaign regarding the "No texting while driving" thing. I first heard about these on the Do Something Awards. I originally looked them up regarding a scholarship contest they were doing, but after reading more about the idea behind this organization, I was all for it. Now that I'm starting to drive, and obviously most of my friends drive, I want us to all be cautious and to stay safe while behind the wheel. It's so easy to get distracted behind the wheel, as I'm starting to see, and I want to make a pledge to myself that I will NEVER do that. Life is short enough as it is, and I sure don't want to end it, because I just couldn't put my phone down for a few minutes. It almost makes me really angry to see people text while driving, because all it takes is a split second to change your life forever or take it away way too soon. I think these are great reminders to STOP! If thumb socks are what it takes to remind all of us, then I say so be it.

(photo courtesy of: Nashvillelife.com)

I had been to one of these stores in Nashville a couple years ago, and instantly loved it. It has everything-shoes, purses, jewelry...All of my favorite things. Well, then I found out we were getting one too, and couldn't be more excited! I've been in there a couple times so far, and know those won't be the last. I'm just wondering where it was when I really needed it for high school occasions like formal and prom?! Now, I hope to have something coming up in the future, just so I can have an excuse to buy all of the things in there to dress up whatever outfit I have.

(photo courtesy of: studioplush.net)

Charles Kelley's (Lady Antebellum) wife, Cassie, has a blog that I'm really into right now, "Womanista." She has so many great articles about fashion, traveling, decor, music, and much more. Some of it is a little out of my price range, but I definitely appreciate her take on things and just getting to see the lifestyle of a musician's wife who was in the PR field. She has great style and is gorgeous, so I just love seeing what she has up her sleeve.

(Photo courtesy of: Pink Pewter facebook page)

I have always had a thing for headbands. My freshman year of high school, I used to have one in just about every color and would always try to match them up with whatever I was wearing. Although, after a couple years of wearing them nonstop, they started hurting my head, so I just quit wearing them, until recently. Carrie Underwood has started yet another trend with the Pink Pewter headbands she's been seen wearing all over the place from appearances to being photographed out and about. They have so many adorable styles to choose from...But, in the meantime, while being a broke college student, I found a couple really great headbands for much cheaper at Charming Charlie's. Something about wearing them just makes me feel that much cooler and dresses up any outfit! I LOVE them! I need more!

(Photo courtesy of: Hollywoodreporter.com)

I know the media gives the Kardashians a lot of crap, and I'll admit I pick on them from time to time, too. But, I still just really love them! I love how close they are, even if it gets a little weird sometimes. It makes me wish I had a big family like they do; always hanging out, taking big trips together, and even just driving each other crazy! I like taking a step inside their crazy world for an hour each week to forget about what's going on in my life to hang out with them. I don't care what anyone else says...they ARE entertaining and hilarious. 

(photo courtesy of: iphoneography.com)

I've followed a lot of Glee fan sites lately on Instagram, who have been posting a lot of their own edits with the characters/actors from the show. One girl said she used the app "Super Impose", so I decided to look it up. It's really confusing, like a mini photoshop for your phone, but if you keep messing around with it, you'll find that it has a lot of features. I've been able to do a few things with it, but I need to keep working with it and reading more about it to be able to use all of the tools and all that it comes with.

(Photo courtesy of: Romaloveamour.com)

Like most girls/women, I have a hard time finding a good pair of shorts that fit my body type. So, when I do find that one perfect pair, I wear them just about everyday, like the boyfriend denim shorts I got at Gap. I don't go in Gap too often, but I happened to go inside at the Santa Monica 3rd Street Promenade, because they were having a huge sale! The shorts were only 25$, which was a fantastic deal, because I can't stop wearing them. You can dress them up with a nicer blouse and sandals, or just a simple t-shirt. They're loose and comfortable, and not too short, where you feel like you have to keep adjusting them! Boyfriend style is the perfect way to go!

Well, that's all for now,
Shelby :)

What are some of your favorite things at the moment? Tweet them to me (@ShelbyN92) or comment below!

The Week In Review

I am so glad this week is over! Never have been my nerves been more shot, I don't think. Okay, that's a little dramatic. But, I have been extremely nervous about my drivers test, which has been one of my biggest fears for awhile now (and I also survived...so, yay!)  I'm officially growing up, so there's that. It's exciting and terrifying. I'm new to this whole, "starting to do things for myself and making my own decisions" thing, because for the most part I'm extremely dependent. I'm liking the new freedom  that I didn't realize has been waiting for me this entire time, but change always takes some getting used to. Trying to figure out what to do with it and where to go from here is a little overwhelming at the moment, but I'm getting there. I just need people to give me time. As soon as I feel like there's no pressure, I can do what I need to do.
It's not even just in my life. So many changes are going on around me, that it's hard to know what's going to happen. But, this is what I've been praying for--new doors to open and for bigger opportunities, so now it's time to just dive in. No second guessing. No doubting. No wondering whether I'm good enough or if I had what it takes. There are no other options. I'm just going to do it and make the best of it. 

Anyway, enough rambling...Wednesday I passed my drivers test at the DMV! AH! One of the greatest accomplishments in my life thus far, because of the uphill battle it has taken to get to this point. Yes, I'm 21 and I'm just now getting my license, but I just honestly haven't been like most people in that department (and many others...But, let's save that for another time). I know most kids are dying to have their license at 16, but I was never like that. When I started thinking I was ready (around 17) and wanted to try it out more, my grandma was really sick; we were dealing with a lot of family issues and there was no time to focus on that. A couple years passed, and it has just been a matter of getting to it. I got so used to just going with friends or being with my family that I never really needed it, exactly. It seems like there was always something getting in the way, or I was always coming up with an excuse to put it off. This year, I said NO MORE. It was time to get down to business. It seems like everyone had also made it their business too, to make sure that I get it, which I think annoyed me more, so I just tried to do the opposite. Why does it hurt them if I have it or not? I'm pretty sure they weren't doing it to annoy me or anything like that, they just care a lot. But, I've found that when people let me go at my own pace, things go a lot better and much smoother from where I'm standing.
To my surprise, the test actually wasn't that bad. I know that God was watching over me the entire time! I had a lot of prayers and support from a couple close friends, though I didn't tell many, because I didn't want to feel that pressure, like everyone was just waiting to hear how I did. It took a load off of me in doing that.
It's so weird to think that I can officially drive anywhere I want now by myself, though I haven't been able to just yet, but I'm really looking forward to that moment of independence.
After my drivers test, I ran some errands with my mom; went to the bank and also opened up my own checking/savings from the kiddie one I had and got my own debit card. I know those don't sound like big things to the average person, but I think I'm a bit slower to the growing up thing than most. You can only delay it for so long, and I'm pumped about it. I feel so free! So many grown up things in one day...I don't even know what to do with myself!! :0

I also got to hang out with one of my best friends this week! We went to our outdoor shopping center, The Marketplace; had lunch and did a little shopping. We went to Johnny Rockets for lunch, which was tasty! I also love the selection of 50s music they play...It always makes me feel like I've been able to time travel to the time of Happy Days. I also have a thing for diners, if you haven't caught on before. So, we ate and talked about life--how we're growing up and it needs to stop, our plans coming up with school and schedules, our families, and a little of everything in between. I love just being able to lay it all out there and get it off my chest. There's nothing better than gabbing with friends.
When we finished eating, we went to Charming Charlie's, which I imagine Heaven will look a lot like. We spent a long while in there, scouring every nook and cranny filled with jewelry, clothes, and purses; daydreaming of scenarios when I'd be able to wear whatever I found. I wanted one of everything, but luckily, I didn't have the money for that, so I just settled for a ring that has "love" spelled out on it and was super cheap. Taylor Swift had one like it a few years back and I had always looked for one like it, and finally found the perfect one. Everything is so reasonable! I've thought about applying there, but I think most of my paycheck would end up going right back to the store, when I'm trying to save A LOT, so I don't think that's such a great idea right now.
We went to Ulta, walking up and down the aisles, where I found a great shade of red lipstick! It comes out a little more pink, but I still love it. 
Marissa and I grabbed drinks from Starbucks after that, because we were dying of thirst, then went to Target, where I walked out empty handed once again. I have a Taylor Swift show coming up very soon, so I have to save what money I do have for it. Target will always be there, you know? After we shopped for a few hours, we came back to my house and watched an episode of Friends and had started watching Made of Honor, when Marissa had to go. Such a fun day! And hopefully it isn't so long before I see her next time.

My aunt visits with an older lady at a retirement home here in town, and she has for the last several years. They worked together at one of her old jobs, and they just kept in contact after that. She's a distant relative of the queen, and when my aunt told her that I was interested in the royal family too, she said she wanted to meet me. After a couple weeks of planning, I was finally able to have dinner with her last night. First off, it was not the kind of "home" I was expecting; it resembled more of a hotel, which I really liked. We had chicken, pit peef, potatoes, carrots, and someone had brought in a champagne cake. It was all so yummy! Betsy also told me SO much about the royal family, and I mean, she knows just about everything! I'm fascinated by the fact that she still remembers everything; who's with who, what they did, etc. I really enjoyed being able to talk with her. She was so sweet. I can't wait to go back and hear more. She even gave me a stack of magazines (pictured above) FROM London that she subscribes to! I'm so excited to start reading through them to learn more about the royals.
After we left, I went to the doctor with my aunt, and we stopped at F.Y.E, which has a ton of music and DVD's, new and used. My aunt ended up spoiling me with lots of music, and I even took all of her new music that was in the car to burn on my computer. I will definitely be busy for quite some time listening to all of it. I listen to and appreciate just about everything that's out there, so it'll give me a variety now! I'll be sure to post those later, along with my playlist for the week!

                                                                          *****

Other than that, I've been watching TV, doing a little writing, and a whole lot of nothing. My focus has been on my driving test for most of the summer, so now that that's taken care of...I'm trying to figure out what to do with the rest of the time. I guess I move to the next step of getting a job and throwing myself into school; planning all the little details in between.

Things are good, and they're getting better! Sometimes you just have to remind yourself of that. And you have to keep working toward what you really want, no matter how far off in the distance it may seem.

That's all for now,
Shelby :)