{When you're dreaming with a broken heart, the waking up is the hardest part}

 

Song playing// "Dreaming with a Broken Heart" by John Mayer

I have three papers to write. Three, before I say goodbye to this quarter. That's a relatively small number compared to what most of my friends are probably doing at this very second. Well, those who aren't on spring break, that is. I shouldn't be complaining. But, I believe that's the struggle of a writer. Sometimes it just doesn't come, and that's okay. You write the paper, you do the best you can and you hope for the best. You get through it one way or another.

I'm almost done with two of the three, so yay me! I'm also semi-watching White Collar in the background. Maybe Neal Caffrey is the secret to me getting stuff done. I will take that any day.

;)

That's all,
Shelby

The Last Long Wednesday

Today was my very last long day of classes, and surprisingly enough this quarter went by fairly quickly. I feel like I was just starting to prepare myself to return to school after Christmas break, and here we are at spring break already. Wow.

It's funny how towards the end of the quarter, it all doesn't seem quite as intimidating. Like, why can't I just have that mentality from the beginning? Something to think about for next time, I suppose.

Today was a rather different one, and much more enjoyable, I must say.

In feature writing, we had a guest speaker, who is the editor-in-chief of one of our local magazines. She talked to us about opportunities to do a bit of freelance writing, internships and told us how she got her start. It was fascinating! Then, after class I was able to talk to her a few minutes about possibly doing an internship during the summer or maybe even the fall, depending on how my schedule looks at that time.

Normally, I would stay on campus for lunch, but my mom picked me up instead. We didn't eat, but I had to pick up some food for our party at the newspaper, so we ran to Albertson's. I grabbed a couple bags of chips and then we decided to pick up some bagels for breakfast in the morning and went to Target for a little while. By the time we'd run all these errands, I was ready to call it a day! HA!

I went back to school a few minutes early, and our party started at 12:45. We all brought different foods, a la potluck style, so there were tacos, chicken, pizza, cupcakes, cookies and more. We ate a lot. There was a movie playing in the background, but I don't remember the name…It was from the 70s. I hung out with the editors most of the time, just talking and messing around. Then, we also did awards, just to showcase everyone and to honor the handwork that everyone has put in, as well as the fact that we're all essential to the team and have different roles that we play. I was "awarded" with "most optimistic!" I thought that was pretty exciting, though I can't say I'm always that way.

When class was finished, I stayed in the newspaper room to hang out with some of the editors. We also got a bit of a head start on re-organizing the room, which we hope to complete over spring break. And then we laughed more…

Finally, I had to go to my next class. I thought we were going to have to present, but we ended up just listening to a lecture from his PowerPoint. I wrote notes, read a little, drew a little…Good times. As soon as class was over, I was out of there. Usually, I have another class after, but due to the fact that we were watching Who's Afraid of Virginia Woolfe, there's no way I was staying. After watching it last quarter (with the same professor), I had no desire to see it again. It's one of those films you really only need to see once. Plus, I found the script online…So, there's that.

Now, I'm at home, listening to music, needing to work on a couple of papers and to start studying for finals. Also, I want to watch Once Upon A Time, because that's my new show! AH! IT'S SO GOOD!

That's all for now,
Shelby :)

"When we look back, these are the days we'll remember." ~Brooke Davis~

I had started writing a short "P.S." in my last post, but it turned out that I had a lot more to say than I thought...So, here it is.

If you're in high school and you're starting this week...Good luck and give it everything you have. Learn as much as you can, hang out with friends as often as possible, try out for the club you've always thought sounded fun, join the sports team that you might not have any business being on, and laugh... a lot. Get to know your teachers, say hi to the random kid that you always seem to pass everyday in the hallway on your way to Spanish, help a new student out, participate in rallies, turn your homework in on time, and go to football games. Study when you know you have a test, don't get distracted by that boy who will forget about you five minutes from now. Unless you're Nathan and Haley, high school sweethearts don't really come around very often, and they're fictional...So, there's that. Go off campus for lunch, don't always be so uptight, let your hair down a little-it's okay to let them see you smile. Speak up when you have something to say, hold your head high, and don't let anything hold you down. Ask for help when you need it, you're not the only one who has questions...It's just that no one else is bold enough to raise their hand, so be the first. When your friends text you, even if it's spur of the moment on a Friday night...Go with them. Be crazy, turn the radio up, laugh at the stupid jokes you come up with, and document it with a lot of pictures and videos. Don't feel like you have to be like everyone, because you don't. And you shouldn't want to. Be YOU. Because you're pretty awesome. You have a story to tell that no one else can. You don't need 1,000 friends like that girl in your English class. If you have a close group, that's all you need. Don't get paranoid if people don't invite you to hang out with them all the time, after awhile you just start to ignore what everyone else is doing. Make the most of every opportunity, so that when you look back 20 years from now, you never have to wonder..."What if?" or wishing you could go back to do something differently. 

Those moments are fleeting, and before you know it graduation day will be there. Be passionate, carefree, yet cautious. Only open up to a close group of people, you can't trust everyone, no matter how much you wish you could. Believe in the best of people, no matter how much they disappoint you. Don't let it make you bitter.  So, just do it. All of it. Oh, yeah, and have fun. Soak those moments up as much as possible. Pretty soon, you'll be out on your own, your friends will be in different states, getting jobs, starting families, pursuing dreams, and somewhere along the way, you might have regrets that you didn't do enough. You didn't say enough. You thought you weren't enough. But, you are...So, know that now. Live the life you want to have five years from now...Right now. Don't wait. 

I kept waiting for the right moment when it came to certain things in high school. But, that perfect timing never came. There is no such thing. Sometimes, you just have to jump and see what happens. I don't believe in regrets. I know God can turn things around, even if I missed one of my chances in high school, or took a different road than I should have. But are there still a couple things I wish I could've done back then? Absolutely. Every experience, heartache, trial, triumph, person, teacher, event, and obstacle makes you who you are. Enjoy every second of it. Let your light shine. Show them all you've got, and let them know that you won't let them tell you otherwise. 

That's all for now,

Shelby

Blame It On My Sensitive Heart

"Perhaps we all give our hearts uncritically to those who hardly think about us in return."

T.H White

There's nothing worse than feeling alone. Actually, yes, there is! It's knowing that you have friends and still having that feeling that you're completely alone; left out.

I get this way a lot, and I guess no one's to blame really. But, I just wonder...why do people say they care if they really make no effort to stay in your life? Then, I start thinking a little deeper. I have an extremely sensitive soul. I take everything  that goes on around me to heart whether it's something I'm dealing with or not. I have to take that into consideration and the fact that my schedule is much more flexible. Basically all of my closest friends have jobs, boyfriends, a tough workload at school, and just a lot of other things that take up their time. I, on the other hand, basically only have school a couple days a week and the rest is pretty much optional for me. It just seems that I'm always the one forcing things or encouraging get together's, while getting nothing in return. Maybe I burned those bridges long ago when I didn't want to hang out, but instead wanted to stay inside my own little bubble; some could say karma.

But, then time is thrown into the equation. T-I-M-E. We make time for the things we care about most, right? When we don't, it's usually because of same lame-o excuse. I know I've done that in the past, just to get out of something I didn't want to do. And that's what it feels like when you don't speak to certain people in your life that you were once so very close to. I understand you have priorities, but You grow apart and you move onto other things, but it shouldn't be so hard to keep in contact should it? *sigh*

Alas, life is not that simple. And this continues to happen. I guess I should be happy with who is in my life right now, and not wish for what is no longer. Honestly, I've never been happier, but that doesn't mean I don't miss those that I used to be so incredibly close with. I guess this is all just part of growing up. There will be people that come and go, and seasons that bring about different changes. Nothing ever stays the same, isn't that what they always say? Better start getting used to it. 

That's all for now,

Shelby

New TV Show Obsession: Felicity

Now that One Tree Hill is finished, I've been trying to find a new show to get into. Thank goodness for Netflix, right? I stumbled upon Felicity (starring Keri Russell), seeing as it was recommended. I remember hearing about this show around the same time as Dawson's Creek, Party of Five and the rest of those...but I never really watched or kept up with it at all. I was probably under the age of ten at the time, so that might explain it.
I was extremely bored late this afternoon, and decided to give it a try. From the minute it started, I was practically hooked. You see, a show has to really hit me in the first episode or I'll just quit watching. It's all or nothing with me! There's been a theme with the shows I watch: small towns, drama, eccentric characters that I feel like I could be BFF's with, and there's just a lot of heart in it. You can feel the warmth of each person and the script is much deeper than just another show for entertainment or shock value. I want a moral or lesson at the end of each episode, where the character feels remorse for a wrong action or there are consequences for not doing what they should have. I want to see the characters grow as human beings. I ended up finding that in this show!
I immediately clicked with Felicity. She's a college age girl that is trying to find her way in the world; finding out who she wants to be, really figuring out the dating game, and making decisions for herself in another state than her parents. It's a whole new world, and she's inspiring me to want to get out of my comfort zone, just based on the courage she's had to do it.  I also noticed that it was created by J.J Abrams (Lost), who is working on a pilot, Shelter, with Mark Schwahn. I am completely sold on that show already, judging by the hits they've had on their hands already.
I'm almost four episodes into Felicity, and I can already tell this will definitely become one of my favorite shows! I can't wait to stay tuned and find out what happens :)

~Shelby <3

One Tree Hill Series Finale

Oh boy, where to even begin with a series finale like that?? I've watched series finales for shows I've never even watched once before that and have teared up. You can bet your bottom dollar I was almost bawling last night. I loved how there were simple moments and mentions of things past, but still enough of the newness to the show that it wasn't over kill.
The interview hour before with Mark and the cast summed the show up perfectly. During that time, I would go out into the living room and tell my parents how much I was enjoying it. I told my dad I might just have him watch that instead of watching an episode, because it shows the highlights, Wilmington, the cast, and talks about the characters. He said he would watch it with me, possibly even Saturday. Although, it might be too soon still..I might do the ugly cry; could get awkward with other people in the room ;).
And then the FINAL episode appeared. I was excited, but also nervous. I hadn't read Twitter spoilers or anything, so I had no idea of what to expect, and I liked it that way. There are so many good moments, that it's hard to narrow it down. As a whole, it's hands down one of the best episodes. There was so much heart and you could feel the emotion of every single actor...it wasn't just the characters that were speaking. It was Joy, Sophia, Rob, Shantel, Lee, Antwon, Lisa, James, etc. I honestly can't think of any other way that it could've gone.

StarsOnline News

Highlights for me:

• The Naley references to the cracker jacks and rain
• Logan calling Quinn "mom" and Clay "dad"
• Julian buying Brooke's old house
• Young Nathan on the Rivercourt
• Haley singing at Tric
• Nathan giving Chris his old guitar that he had sold on their road trip back in the day
• The group sitting in the stands of the high school gym watching Jamie play, flashing back to their moments there...and that he beat Nathan's record!!! :*) Sniffle, sniffle
• Brooke's moment in the school hallway with Julian; missing it
• Haley explaining the predictions to Jamie
• The talk Nathan and Jamie had at the Rivercourt about playing sports
• The cast rocking out to Gavin DeGraw's "I Don't Want To Be" at Tric

As you can see, I could go on and on about this episode. Just when I'd think I was done crying through Chase and Chris' scenes, something else would come up and I'd start all over again. And that is everything that a finale should be. I love that there was an ending, but everyone is still in Tree Hill. Most of the time when a series ends, they all move away or start a completely different chapter of their lives. I love that you can picture them all still in the same town, just adjusting to life's many changes as they always have. As the years go by, you might not have a new episode, but you can picture Haley and Nathan dealing with a now high school Jamie, Brooke and Julian raising their little family and running the store, and the rest of the gang doing whatever journey it is they're embarking on. 

In the interview special Mark Schwahn said, "We’re still here. We just won’t see you every week. I like that tone, and I like that feel. So I kind of wanted to leave the fans with that, like Tree Hill will always be here. And I think that’s a nice place to be." I 

couldn't have put it into words more perfectly.

"Go Jamie!"

That's all for now folks. Good night Tree Hill :)

~Shelby 

Simple Ways To Make Someone's Day

This day in age, it's so easy to get caught up in our lives that are going 100 miles an hour each day! We're so attached to our phones, computers, TV's, and whatever other social network connection is out there. In being so wrapped up, we miss those little moments; the moments that make life worth living.

The other day, I was on campus at school walking with a couple of friends when we ran into another group. My friend knew one of the girls that was standing there, so we stopped for a couple minutes. A few seconds into it, I heard "I like your bag!" I smiled and said "thank you." She added, "You have beautiful eyes, and a great smile...and just a pretty face!" Or something to that effect. I just thought it was one of the sweetest things anyone's ever said. Here's a complete stranger that's saying this, and it just really made my day.

It had me thinking about the power of our words. Each day we can choose to build people up; we can smile in their direction, give a compliment, thank them for the service they're doing, or just help someone out with a simple task. When I think of how small gestures have made my day, it makes me want to make someone else's day as well. I want to start doing that; looking for the good in everyone and being able to make someone feel good. We're all going through our own trials and knowing that someone cares or is taking time out of their day to notice you can really change a lot.

That's all for now,
Shelby

Goodnight Tree Hill...For The Last Time

A show has not really tugged at my heart strings since Gilmore Girls when it ended in 2007, and I thought no show could EVER even come close to the way I felt about it. And then another show about a small town came into my life. One Tree Hill has become so much more than a show to its viewers over the past nine years, including myself. It has been their lives portrayed across TV screens week after week; as the characters were growing and maturing, so was the audience. Whether it was them or someone they knew, they related to the story line or a character in some way. I know I did. I didn't watch nine years straight like the rest of the OTH family did, but I've grown to love it just as much. And boy, do I wish I had watched during my high school years. It would have saved me A LOT and helped me through a lot of struggles.

I was probably about eleven or twelve when it first aired, and around the time I fell in love with Chad Michael Murray, so I had to watch an episode. The first one would have been Haley's bachelorette party in season 2, which I watched with my mom. After about 20 minutes, she was like uh, no, I think we're gonna have to change the channel and we did (LOL). A couple years later, I made the decision that I was going to try it again. This time, it was the school shooting episode, and I watched the entire thing. I was so intrigued by it all. I thought it was SO good. But, at the time, I was pretty chicken and didn't think I could handle something like that week after week, so I just didn't watch again, except for maybe here and there on SoapNet if nothing else was on. Until that one day, last September or October.

One Tree Hill couldn't have come at a more perfect time. I was really missing my friends, because we're all on different schedules or in different states or we're just getting ready to head down different paths. I needed a little insight or a little reminder that it was all going to be okay. All Tomorrow's Parties was the first episode I watched and was hooked. To me, it captured everything that the show is about, teenagers finding their way and forming lifelong friendships in the process, capturing those rare and incredible moments of high school. I guess I needed reminding of the great times my friends and I shared, even if nothing else in the future. And that sometimes there are such powerful moments in our lives, that it stuns us as it's going on and we'll remember it forever; something that will help us through the moments that are less than perfect. That was when I knew this was more than just a show for pure pleasure and entertainment. This show was looking much deeper than that and I loved it. It told a story; it was there to HELP people. I feel like this is one of the last shows on TV that truly give a moral to the story. I love that they would make mistakes, but that there were consequences for their actions or they learned to do the right thing. This show made a difference, and it is inspiring so many people all around the world to do the same with their talents and voices.

Lessons I learned from One Tree Hill:

• Even in the midst of all the chaos in life, you can find the beauty in things, like the warmth of family and friends being by your side.
• Everyone has greatness inside of them, you just have to BELIEVE in yourself and in the possibility of your dreams.
• Everyone deserves a second chance 
• Don't judge people based on appearances or reputation. If you look past all of the "bluster and b.s", you just might be surprised...(Look at Nathan and Haley).
• True love is out there, and TRUE love can work past anything (Naley)
• Even just one song can completely change your entire day (Peyton)
• Your art matters and it will inspire others
• Tell the ones that you love most how much they mean to you, because you never know when that will be taken away
• Happiness isn't a destination, it's a mood...and people will probably be happier when they figure that out (Julian)
• You can rise above whatever trials and adversities in your life, don't just sit there feeling sorry for yourself
• There is nothing romantic about pain and grief, it's just ugly garbage, that has no business being there
• The pain you're feeling right now? It goes away, and it DOES get better.
• Things aren't always going to be fair in the real world, but for the most part, you get what you give.
• If you open your heart, you might find yourself in some pretty incredible, yet unexpected places
• Whatever you're facing, you're not alone.
• Things will come and go in your life, but true friendship remains!
• Some people will never change. Instead of focusing on that, accept it and move on with YOUR life.
• Don't let fear dictate your life; rise above it
• High school isn't everything.
• Your life shouldn't revolve around basketball, there are more important things in life
• People are going to label you, but it's how you rise above those labels that matters
• You are worth it and being YOU is enough
• "Always love, hate will get you every time!"
• Never trust anyone with the last name Keller ;)
• I could come up with more, but we'd probably be here for days. 

These characters have come alive to me! I especially admire the characters of Haley James Scott, Peyton Sawyer, and Brooke Davis. There's a little bit of me in all of them. I had friendships like they did, I knew people who fought like they did, and I knew people who loved like they did. All strong, empowering women that had a dream and went after it. They remind girls everywhere to believe in themselves! And as for the guys, well, they remind us that maybe there are still some good ones left in this world ;) HA!

In the short time that I've been watching this show, I have made some incredible memories and had opportunities that I will never forget. I've met some really wonderful friends through Twitter, An Evening With One Tree Hill and the Team True Beauty event that have really inspired me. I've met a few of the cast members who couldn't have been more gracious and lovely, and were more beautiful in person not only because of their looks, but because of their hearts. I couldn't be more grateful or have dreamed of anything more. Later this year, I'll be going to Wilmington, NC to see where the show was filmed, and I am beyond excited! This will truly fulfill all of my wildest expectations.

To end this, I'd just like to say, Mark Schwahn, thank you for inviting us into your world and sharing your stories with us. Thank you to the cast that became like our friends through the likes of Haley, Nathan, Brooke, Julian, Peyton, Lucas, Jamey, Skills, Mouth, etc. Good night Tree Hill, and thanks for always being a safe place that we could always run to; where things were always better. This may be the ending of the Tree Hill gang, but we can all hold onto those memories through the box sets. No, it's not the same, but, it will still help you through the hard times that life will always throw your way.

That's all for now,
Shelby
xoxox  

My Top 5 Characters On One Tree Hill

Haley James Scott

I love Haley James Scott! She's one of those rare "good girls" on TV that wasn't portrayed as being overly prudish, if you know what I mean She was just a girl that was best for knowing the difference between right and wrong, and she was always trying to do the right thing. Haley was someone I related to the most, even when I was younger and had only seen a couple episodes. She's the quiet girl and good student, but when she needed to she'd step up and say something, leaving everyone wondering where it came from. You do not want to piss "Tutor Girl" off ;). Some may say she's "boring", but I think that couldn't be farther from the truth. Is that because she had morals and integrity?? The people around her honored that. Honestly, there was nothing boring about her life. She was no typical girl (getting married in high school, becoming a pop star, saving her family from psychos, etc). She represents the few girls that still exist out there who have standards for themselves. I feel like there are so many sides to her: her as a mom, a teacher, a wife, a musician, etc. All labels.  And then there are those beautiful moments when Haley's being Haley; when she laughs or has a few words of wisdom, is helping out a friend or is fighting for what she believes in. She's someone I hope to be like because she knows what she stands for and she has never really compromised that. Even when she made a mistake, she rose above it and came out on the other side stronger for it. Always the voice of reason, Haley James :)

Brooke Davis

Brooke Davis. She's the girl that seemed to have it all together in high school, keeping it all inside with a strong exterior, but very fragile at the core. She's a complex character with so much heart. She's not one to fall apart or to show her weaknesses, because she has been hurt way too much in her life to let other people have that power. Even early on from the first season, you could tell that Brooke had so much love to give, if only the right person would come along...and she eventually found that with Julian. Someday you will be able to let people in. She's proof that you shouldn't let anyone stop you from going after what you want and that you're worth it. Even though she didn't have the family life she had always dreamed of growing up, she's now able to live it out with a family of her own. There's never a dull moment with B. Davis, she always has plenty of tricks up her sleeve.

Nathan Scott

Nathan's story is much like Brooke's in that they grew up with crazy parents with high expectations, not listening to the voices of what their children wanted. Nathan was a player and not just on the basketball court. He didn't have the best track record with girls until he met Haley. And all of a sudden, he wanted to be "someone that was good enough to be seen with her." He used to be an immature kid that made a mess wherever he went, causing everyone else to fix his mistakes. But, then he started taking ownership of his life and decided that he was going to change. He's now the kind of guy that girls everywhere would want as their boyfriend/husband. He's the protector of his family, he's driven, and he actually acts like a dad. Even after growing up with Dan Scott, he was able to decide that he didn't want to be that way with his own son. He fought to get past all those road blocks that stood in his way whether it was in his family life or in his career...he wasn't going to let anything hold him back.

Julian Baker

Julian is such a fun character. To be honest, he's not the typical guy's guy. He's not into sports, he's into film and quoting movies every chance he gets. I mean would you really expect anything different from a director? He's sincere, warm, and comforting, yet strong and brave when the time calls for it. He was exactly what Brooke needed. She's a feisty one and he keeps her in line, I guess you could say. They balance each other out. He's witty and charming, and will pretty much say whatever he feels even if it isn't necessarily the popular vote. Julian is super intelligent and knows what he wants. He's the kind of guy I'd like to marry (as long as he's a Christian guy as well).

Dan Scott

Where does one really begin with Dan Scott? He was one of the most unlikeable guys...probably in TV history if you really think about it. He was a downright villain, killing his own brother and treating his sons the way he did. He was one of the most interesting characters, though. No matter how much you hated him, you had to wonder why he was the way he was. Throughout the nine seasons, I think there were glimpses of who Dan really could've been had he not been overtaken by bitterness, jealousy, and what might've been. Towards the end of his life, you saw this compassionate and even remorseful side to him. He probably had some of the best story lines, because he dealt with everyone. It seems like everyone in town was affected by Dan Scott because he was in charge of the car dealership, was mayor, had his TV show, was father to two sons, etc. I think the real Dan Scott is the one we'd always see with Jamie, being the caring grandfather that he always was to him. That's the dad he could've been to Nathan. In the past couple seasons, we've really been able to see his redemption process. 

One Tree Hill has had some of the best characters on television, period. It was really hard choosing, because they all amazed me. They've all had so much depth to them and their backstories always match up perfectly to who they are right now...but these just seemed to really jump out at me. If I added one more character, it would definitely be Peyton because her passion for music and dealing with the loss of people always leaving is something I really related and sympathized with. I think I didn't pick her for the "Top 5", because I feel like at the end she just loss some of her zest/ "Peytonness."

That's all for now,
Shelby
xoxox

Who are your favorite characters? Tweet them to me! :)

One Tree Hill Recap-Anyone Who Had A Heart

Where to even begin with last week's One Tree Hill episode? It was so emotional. There was the return of Nathan, which sort of got overlooked with the rest of the craziness that was happening with Dan, but the very first scene between him and Haley hit everyone. I think that was actually powerful enough that they didn't need to say anything else, but just look at each other and embrace one another. Now, I can't listen to "Never Let Me Go" by Florence and the Machine without crying, but it was beautiful. I NEVER  thought that I would be on Dan's side, or that anyone else would be for that matter! After all the crap he's done and put everyone through, I never expected to actually feel something for him. But, the genius that is Mark Schwahn and the acting that Paul Johannson delivers week after week was the best combination. I don't think I've cried that much since the last death on the show (Lydia James).

My favorite scene of the entire episode would have to be the scene right before Dan passes away in the hospital. It's the first chance we really get to see what Dan has been dealing with since the school shooting. When the two of them are on the basketball court, it was just perfection at its finest. I'm so glad that Nathan and Dan's relationship ended on a better note than it's ever been. They might not have to time to do anything differently, but I think Nathan was finally able to forgive him and we all saw that Dan had changed from that evil guy he had been for so long. 

"Love means giving chances when there are no more chances left to give!" 

~Haley~

Last night's episode was much more calm, working us up towards next week's final episode. It focused a lot more on Brooke and how her family has finally come together after so many years of wishing and dreaming for that; dysfunction and pain. Through it all, she found Julian and he was the best thing to ever happen to her. I think that's what we all hope for in our lives, that we'll meet that one person that makes us believe in love and really live it out. It's incredible to see how she has evolved through the years of being that cheerleader in high school to the strong woman she is now. As far as Julian's concept of The Ravens TV show (obviously paralleling OTH), I love it, but I'm not crazy about him being written into it. As much as I love him, he wasn't in the high school years; if he wants to tell the story how it happened, that's not it. I also thought that him making the basket was far fetched too, his show or not. We're talking about the same kid who chased butterflies in right field when he played baseball.

I loved that they were starting to prepare us with the few hints of sentimental mentions with the burning boat festival and the mention of Jimmy Edwards. The scene between Haley and Brooke at the Rivercourt where Haley is telling her about the night that she lied to Lucas about tutoring Nathan, during the last Burning Boat Festival (season one). That was definitely the first scene I thought of when I heard about the Burning Boat event in this episode. Since we're getting down to the wire, I really wish Jamie and Nathan would have been in this episode, but due to James' shooting schedule, I don't think it would have worked out. It would've been nice to have seen them bonding on their camping trip, especially with Nathan having been missing for the last however many weeks and Dan dying. But, it still definitely worked out for this week, and we've had plenty of wonderful Naley moments over the past eight seasons, and I have a feeling there will be some in the episode to come. AH!

Yay for Quinn and Clay! I love that Logan is adapting so well to all the changes that are going on in his life and how good Quinn has been with him. They make one adorable family. It showed a different side to them than we've seen before! I thought Jamie was the most adorable/intelligent kid, but then Logan came into the picture and I have to say it is one tough call. The show seriously knows how to pick out the best kids. 

Some of the story lines this season, I feel like we never really got a chance to see them full develop or we didn't have time to necessarily see WHY it was happening (Mouth getting fat, Xavier coming back, Nathan's disappearance-I know it was with the Europen basketball dealings, but still, Julian leaving his baby in the car and feeling bad, etc.) But I'm not going to be one of those fans who complains, because I still thought everything was fantastically done. They didn't even have to come back for a ninth season, but they did. I have to say that even in the midst of the chaos of this season, there was a lot of warmth and so much heart in each episode whether it was just the acting, the voiceovers, the plot, or the directing style. Each and every single one of the cast members gave everything they had. 

And last, but certainly not least, how can I forget about the last scene between Brooke and her parents. I lost it right about there! It was such a sweet moment for Brooke to get that simple dream that she had always wanted with her parents...to signify that they were really a family. 

Next week, we say goodbye to a place that has welcomes us with open arms and made us feel at home. We say goodbye to characters that have become our friends and people that we have identified with and represented us over the years, no matter when you started watching. This is one of the last shows on TV that you can tell had real heart; a real honesty and integrity. It's a show with morals and life lessons, not just another show to entertain. In all honesty, I think that's why it wasn't necessarily "popular" among the more mainstream audience, because it hit the hard topics that other people might've been afraid to touch on. But, obviously it worked, because it has lasted longer than most shows. It had a real voice, and reminded others that they do too. 

If you want to check out exclusive videos and past episodes, check out the CW's site here:

http://cwtv.com/cw-video/one-tree-hill/

Until next time,

Shelby

Just One Of Those Days

Maybe I'm the only one, but, have you ever had one of those days when you just don't want to do anything but staying in bed all day? If so, then you're right there with me. Although, I've had this feeling the past couple weeks. Maybe it's something about Spring Break coming up and I'm just ready for summer or I just need to get a life. Lately, most of my days have consisted of not doing anything until after 10 or so, staying in my PJ's until the One Tree Hill marathon on SoapNet is over, and being bored out of my mind.

I need to get a life, in case I haven't said that yet. I feel like right now I need to be doing so much more. I keep wondering why things aren't going anywhere and why I'm staying in the exact same place? Maybe it's because I'm scared and this all just seems so easy right now. Maybe I'm waiting around for something that's never going to happen. But, I think I'm mainly afraid of the reality of it all. It used to be this far off idea in the distance, that honestly I guess I never thought I'd have to deal with. And here we are. I'm 20 years old, and pretty soon I'm going to have to grow up. I'm going to school, but sometimes I just feel like that's not enough. Until that starts speeding up, I've just been trying to enjoy this time, because I know once it's gone, it won't come back.

That's all for now,
Shelby
xoxox

A Few Facts About Me

For those of you who might not know me or have just started reading my blog, you might not know a lot about me. So I thought I'd make a quick list of random facts about myself as an introduction:

• I love Jesus! I believe He died for me and I'm surrounded by his grace. I live for HIM.
• I'm a big fan of Peace tea (and just about any other tea for that matter)
• I compare just about everything to a scene from a TV show or movie (but usually Gilmore Girls and One Tree Hill are the top references)
• I've never been on an "official" date
• I like making lists, even sort of pointless ones such as this
• I absolutely LOVE using big words
• I spend too much time online and on my phone: blogging, texting, instagramming, tweeting, etc.
• I've always wanted to be a singer, but I also have a huge passion for writing and acting
• I'm sarcastic, but not as much as I used to be
• If I could go to school for something other than Journalism, I think it would be for design-I've always loved designing clothes and drawing, and just fashion in general
• Lately, I've been thinking about wanting to get into directing somewhere down the line. I'm a very visual person. When I'm writing a story, I can see little mini movies in my head of how I'd do things if it were an actual movie. Or how I would have done things with music videos and TV shows if I were in charge ;)
• Is it bad that sometimes I'm more emotionally involved with fictional characters' relationships than my own? Oh yeah, because I don't have one...LOL. I also sometimes make playlists on my computer for them. But, let's keep that on the dl.
• People I really admire in the business: Carrie Underwood, Bethany Joy Lenz, Taylor Swift, Sophia Bush, Danny Gokey, and Nick Jonas. In my life: my best friends!
• There's always a line from a song to fit my every mood or something from a TV show to describe my day
• Winter used to be my favorite season, but now I can't stand the cold...yay Summer!
• I can easily memorize things I've heard and seen only once (i.e TV shows/music, etc). I can also usually tell you what the name of the episode is and what's going to happen after only a couple minutes. 
• I've always wanted to smash a pie in someone's face
• If I could date any fictional character, it would be Dean Forrester of Gilmore Girls 
• If I could BE any fictional character, it would be Rory Gilmore or Haley James Scott
• I choose favorite teams based on locations (Dodgers-LA, any North Carolina team, etc)
• I want to change the world and make a difference, even if it's just through a smile, a song, or something someone related to through my blog! If I can touch one life and remind them that it's worth living, things will get better, and God has a plan...then I've done my job here! :)

That's all for now,

Shelby

Always and Forever

Is it just me or all young couples pulling a Nathan and Haley by getting married in high school or right out of high school? Back in the day, I get that that was the norm, but these days life is just not that simple. The cost of living has gone up, jobs are harder to come by, and people just have a different mentality than they used to. We want things now and we don't want to have to work for them, but marriage can't fall into that category. I don't think my generation or the ones even younger than me are prepared for that. Some are and I guess it's not fair of me to group everyone together, but a good majority are not thinking things completely through. They think 'we're in love now' ...and well that's really the end of the thought process.

I don't doubt young love. There is no certain age to fall in love or to find that person you want to spend the rest of your life with, but in my opinion, I would want to have a college degree and a steady job before I jumped into making a life with someone else. In fact, I'd like to venture out on my own and find out who I am before I start to blend with someone else. I think we should all get out from under our parents' wing before we're married to discover who WE are and what WE want. For so long, we are told what to do and I think it's important to see what kind of decisions we make outside of our families. Or maybe I'm just bitter because I'm nowhere near starting a life with a "special someone" LOL. But, truth be told...I have a lot of life to live before I'd want to settle down. But, I know that when the right time and the right one comes along, it'll all work out and the rest won't matter so much.

That's all for now,
Shelby
xoxo

One Tree Hill-The Tide That Left and Never Came Back

This has to be one of my favorite episodes of One Tree Hill ever. As all of the episodes do, the message of this one just really struck a chord with me. This is my favorite dialogue/scene of the episode: 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TW50-jpJOx4 <--------------- Here's the clip!

Brooke: George Bernard Shaw once wrote: "There are two tragedies in life. One is to lose your heart's desire. The other is to gain it." Clearly, Shaw had his heart broken once or twice.
Nathan Scott: As far as I'm concerned, Shaw was a punk. Cause you know what? Tragedies happen. What are you gonna do, give up? Quit? No. I realize now that when your heart breaks, you got to fight like hell to make sure your still alive. Because you are. And that pain you feel? That's life. The confusion and fear? That's there to remind you, that somewhere out there is something better, and that something is worth fighting for.
Haley James: This year, I got everything I wanted and everything I wished for. But in a way, I lost even more.
Lucas 'Luke' Scott: Shaw was right. As we strain to grasp the things we desire, the things we think will make our lives better: money, popularity, fame... we ignore what truly matters, the simple things, like friendship, family, love. The things we probably already had.
Mouth McFadden: So Mr. Shaw thinks that getting your heart's desire is a tragedy? I say he's wrong. I mean, clearly Shaw never kissed Erica Marsh.
Peyton Elizabeth Sawyer: Yes, losing your heart's desire is tragic. But gaining your heart's desire? That's all you can hope for. This year I wished for love... to immerse myself in someone else and to wake a heart long afraid to feel. My wish was granted. And if having that is tragic, then give me tragedy. Because I wouldn't give it back for the world.

I have to agree with Lucas' commentary most. I think we get caught up in trying to achieve so many things or that if we just had _______________ (fill in the blank) then we'd be happy, but it's not that simple. When we're so busy to reach that certain point, we miss everything along the way. Usually those things that are truly fulfilling to our lives. Like Luke said, "The things we probably already had." George Bernard Shaw was right. Sometimes we lose our heart's desire in seeking it. It's all about priorities and knowing what is truly important in life.

That's all for now,
Shelby
xoxo

Where Do I Go From Here?

Do you ever have those moments where you know exactly what you should be doing, but have no idea how to get there? I'm having one of those right now. Basically, from the time that I could talk or possibly even before, music has been in my blood. It is how I express myself, make sense of everything going on around me, and when I sing, I feel like I'm making a difference in someone's life even if just momentarily. When I was younger, I thought for sure I'd be doing something in Hollywood by the time I was out of high school. Maybe that's not realistic, but I figured it's happening for other people, why can't it happen to me? Now, I'm 20...going to school for Journalism, which is another passion of mine, but at the same time right now it just feels like I'm killing time. I'm in the same place that I've been for quite some time now, and I honestly don't know where to go from this point on. Where do I go from here? What comes next?

I see all these people that are younger than me really going after something they believe in. And while I think it's incredibly awesome that kids around the age of fifteen are making a difference, I can't help but feel like I should be doing something more with my life. I should be somewhere bigger and better than I am. Have I settled? Have I really been making the most of every opportunity or am I scared and just taking the easy way out? Right now, I guess I'm just trying to get through this phase and see what's next in my life. But, I guess I shouldn't rush. I'll just enjoy this time, have faith, and know that my waiting will be worth it in the end. There's not always going to be certainty in our lives, and in those moments you just have to take a step back and trust that God will pull you through it.

"So for now, I say goodbye to this chapter in my life and look forward to what comes next..." From one of my favorite scenes on One Tree Hill, and one I refer back to often. Here's the clip from that episode...enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qxw1xDh08k4

That's all for now,
Shelby

Making A Difference

 

"Don't listen to them when they say, 'you're just a fool, just a fool to believe you can change the world. The smallest thing can make all the difference. Love is alive, don't listen to them when they say, 'you're just a fool to believe you can change the world.'"

~Carrie Underwood~

Sophia Bush has really inspired me lately with wanting to get involved in a cause; to be passionate about it and let my voice be heard. She has reminded me that my opinion does matter and that no matter how small your contribution to something is, it makes a difference and can change the course of events. I'd really like to run a marathon or volunteer at a homeless shelter or something where I can just help brighten up someone's day; to give of my time. I have been so blessed in my lifetime and I'd like to give back to others. I have had friends and family that have sacrificed of their time and money to help me and I would really like to do the same.

But, I guess those things don't have to be the only way you can make a difference is if you're volunteering or saving the whales. Use your talents and gifts for the purpose of others; share your story, help someone with their problem, give someone a smile, listen to them, sing a song that will lighten the load, help out in a classroom, or whatever else it is that you're passionate about.

Me? I'm passionate about letting girls know that they're beautiful and they're special (organizations like Team True Beauty and B.A.B.E). I always have been, because I know what it's like to be picked on, even over the dumbest of things. I want girls to know that they are going to make a difference no matter what size they are, what color their hair is, or whatever else the world is telling them they should be. It really is about their heart, and they shouldn't let anyone else look down on them. God created us to be unique for a reason and we are all great at something. We can all be something really great if we believe in ourselves and shoot for the moon. The moment you put limits on your self and the goals you want to achieve, you'll settle for whatever comes your way. This also ties in with bullying and belittling others, which has really grown in the past couple years in our world. I see it everyday with people on Twitter and Facebook, over petty things...like someone got something they didn't and their jealousy got the best of them. GET OVER IT PEOPLE, do you not see that the suicide rates are up over things like that? Get out of your shallow, self-centered bubble and see what's going on around you. I want to get involved in organizations that promote TRUE beauty and stop all the bullying and petty internet crap.

Girls, find your inner strength and stand for something! In fact, it's actually International Women's Day! So, go out there and do something really empowering. Say something that has been on your heart to get out, sign up for an art class, or volunteer to help with kids or animals. Do something that's close to your heart and let your voice be heard.

Here are a few blogs that are all about making a difference and changing the world through art, inspiration, stories, and just speaking the truth that I've found to be really helpful and incredible, because I'm all for girls standing up for the truth and what they believe in:

• http://i-a-t-g.tumblr.com/archive
• http://www.iamthatgirl.com/
• http://www.godchicks.com/
• http://www.sophiabush.com/news/
• http://teamtruebeauty.weebly.com/
• http://ask-elizabeth.com/
• http://andreastephens.com/
• http://youmeandcharlie.com/

This is also another cause that has been going around. Actually, they came to my high school I believe it was my Junior or Senior year and I remember signing the petition back then. The way the guys in the documentary were so on fire for this subject was really inspiring, and still is today. They're trying to protect these kids from the danger that they're being faced with on a day to day basis, and that's wonderful. I really hope this campaign makes a difference and gets around like never before. 

That's all for now,

Shelby 

xoxox

One Tree Hill Recap-Every Breath Is A Bomb

Mark Schwann seriously knows how to step it up season after season. No matter what crazy story line has come into our path, it has turned out for the best. Therefore, we need to just trust that he's going to end the series the way the fans would want it to, even if it's not necessarily what we had in mind from the beginning. 


I really liked last night's episode, but it wasn't my favorite. There was actually a lot going around that people thought it was a bad episode, which I don't really agree with. They didn't understand why Haley dressed the way she did and did what she did to just find out information about Nathan. I completely understood why she did that...she's desperate at this point. Heck, she's working with Dan; she thought that was stooping to the lowest level. She was extremely tough, and I enjoyed seeing that side in her come out. Nathan's not around to fight the battles for her and she stepped out and found her inner warrior.Paul Johannson and Joy Galeotti are incredible together. I have seriously enjoyed their scenes this season, because like Mark Schwann said, they find the things that other people might not see and they have a certain rhythm. No words can capture just exactly what they're doing to pull this story line with Nathan together. 


As for Brooke, oh how I'm afraid of what comes next. I think Xaviar has been up to something all along; if he had really changed, her following him around town wouldn't have just "triggered" something in him to want revenge. I don't think it was smart of Brooke and Julian to just follow him around town the way they did, where he would see that they called the police on him, because that will just mean more bad news for them. I think Brooke needs to tell Julian about her little run in later that night with Xaviar in front of the cafe. Judging by that last scene where he's holding Davis, it does not mean good things for the Baker family. Also, Tara is really making me angry. She's a B$%^#...literally. They said that she was a bad girl, but she really IS a bad seed. I feel like there's going to be something that ties her in with Xaviar's character and the overall reason that she opened her cafe across the street from Brooke and Haley's. 


I really enjoyed the story line with Clay; how he told Quinn he has a son and the fact that he actually told Logan he was his father. It broke my heart that Logan ran out and doesn't really want anything to do with him, but I'm sure he'll come around. It's obviously a lot for a little kid to handle and for it to come out of the blue like that. I think now that Clay has addressed the real issue of why he has been acting the way he has been, he'll be able to move past that and start getting back to his normal life. Or at least a new normal for him, now that Logan's in the picture.


Finally, I'm glad Chuck finally came around and spoke up for Chase. I'm kind of wondering if that's the end of that story with his dad, though? It seems kind of short-lived and like there wasn't a lot to it really other than to show the relationship between Chuck and Chase, and to sort of see why his mom was an alcoholic for so long. Maybe now their family can start over. 


Next week's episode is called, "Hardcore Will Never Die, But You Will." The title alone sure seems to say a lot. 


Here's the link to a short scene between Brooke and Tara in Karen's cafe. Things are about to go down between the two of them. 
http://www.cwtv.com/cw-video/one-tree-hill/hardcore-will-never-die-but-you-will-clip/?play=1288cd75-8748-4d2b-8090-8e12bc614baa&sf3433610=1

Now, there are only 4 more episodes left until the SERIES finale 
:*( I think we should all start stocking up on tissue now. 

That's all for now,
Shelby

American Idol Recap

Last night on American Idol, the guys sang Stevie Wonder, while the girls paid tribute to the late and great Whitney Houston. I think the girls are proving that they are here to stay, but the guys are still just sort of mediocre and finding their way. 

Joshua Ledet - "I Wish" by Stevie Wonder
Elise Testone- "I'm Your Baby Tonight"
Jermaine Jones - "Knocks Me Off My Feet"
Erika Van Pelt -"I Believe in You and Me"
Colton Dixon - "Lately"
Shannon Magrane - "I Have Nothing"
Deandre Brackensick - "Master Blaster"
Skyler Laine - "Where Do Broken Hearts Go"
Heejun Han - "All is Fair In Love"
Hollie Cavanaugh - "All The Man That I Need"
Jeremy Rosado - "Ribbon in the Sky"
Jessica Sanchez - "I Will Always Love You"
Phillip Phillips - "Superstition"

My favorites of the night were Hollie Cavanaugh and Jessica Sanchez! They blew me away with their pipes; singing such huge songs for Whitney. Normally when people pick powerful songs that should be sung by the original, it makes you cringe...but these girls really did them justice, but gave it a little something new for this generation. My mom and I voted for them, so my fingers are crossed for them tonight! I also really enjoyed Phillip Phillips' version of Superstitious. Over the years, countless people have sang that same song on the Idol stage, and every single time it's nothing different. Phillip finally changed the arrangement and made it something fresh. I was extremely impressed with his performance, and I think he's getting better as the weeks go on. He's definitely one of the guys to watch this season.As for the weakest links, I have to say that I agree with Jennifer and Steven that it goes to Elise and Shannon. I was really pulling for Elise, but you could tell she wasn't very comfortable with the song and didn't connect with it as much. The connection level also goes for Shannon too. I think she has the vocals, but doesn't necessarily relate because she's only sixteen. On another note...Heejun needs to go. I'm sorry that I'm not sorry; I'm just not a fan! 
That's all for now,We'll see who goes home and who will proceed to the next round.
~Shelby