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 :)

Video of the Day

(photo courtesy of: blingcheese.com)

I've been re-watching old videos of Cory Monteith and discovering some really great ones that I'd never seen before, like this one. I really love how he filmed just about everything he did, which is something I have always aspired to do and try here and there, but never have the guts to just film whatever, whenever. I always tend to chicken out filming in front of a major landmark or if there are other people around, whether it's family or strangers, because I'm not extremely outgoing. Or I just run out of things to say, because it's so not natural for me to just speak on the spot...But, watching Cory just being himself wherever he went reminds me that I should too. No one cares that much, and I tend to let my self consciousness get in the way of so many great opportunities. 

So, this weekend, in honor of Cory, Viviyan and I are going to film our adventure in LA. I'm really excited to try it out and just see how it goes. Live in the moment and capture all of the beauty around us. 

We'll see how that goes...

That's all for now,

Shelby :)

xoxo

Back To School...Well, Not Quite Yet

The past couple of days, I've been helping out one of my dearest friends in her classroom, prepping for the new school year that starts in just a a week and a half! I can't believe she's getting ready to start her second year. It really is crazy how time flies, and how quickly she adjusted to it, as well as it's hard to believe that her summer is already slowing down and she'll be getting a new batch of kiddos. We've been organizing posters, cabinets, drawers, rearranging some of the tables, redoing the walls, and cleaning. And it has been nothing but fun, as hard as that might be to believe!

I've been feeling sort of blah lately; summertime blues, I guess you could call it. I've had way too much time to sit at home and dwell on things that are out of my control and it has only worried me to death in the process, which is not cool. So, when Viviyan asked if I would help her out in her classroom Sunday (or Monday night?), I jumped at the chance, because, 1) I'd get to hang out with one of my closest friends and favorite people on the planet, and 2) I really do like being in the school environment, though usually after hours or if I'm not the one who's actually at the desk as a student. I've always loved helping teachers, whether it was as a student in elementary school filing, helping clean the class and grading papers or helping out friends over the past couple years. It's fun to be able to get to know the kids and learn the ropes, without actually having that responsibility of being the one in charge. I think being able to be in the workforce without actually getting paid or being on staff anywhere has helped me gain experience, so when I do get a job, I'll have an idea of what it's like to work around other people and to be part of a "team."

I seriously commend teachers for all the hard work that they put in, not only for the lesson plans and teaching, but for the details they put into their classroom. You have no idea how much goes into it, and I love that the teachers I know have such a passion and heart for their students and making it the best experience that they possibly can for the kids. I know my calling isn't to be a teacher or to be in a classroom all day, but for right now, I am enjoying being around it.

So, the past couple of days has been so much more than just doing work, though, we've been able to get a lot accomplished and her class is looking fantastic, it has been about connecting with people again. I feel like the summer has made me pull away from my normal routines and getting together with people, so this was a nice chance to interact with something to do, instead of sitting at home
bored. Viviyan and I were actually able to have a couple really nice heart to hearts. I've been so bottled up with feelings lately, and I was reminded that it's okay to pour your heart out and let people know what you're going through, instead of just driving yourself crazy. And I had a bit of a reminder that "it's okay not to be okay." We're all going to have those moments where no matter how good things are going around us, we have to do a bit of a heart check and see how we're doing spiritually and mentally. It was a load off, that's for sure. I truly believe God put it all together for that talk today, and is giving me that nudge to get back in the game. I've been using this summer break and starting the new university in the fall as an excuse to get comfortable and just blow big opportunities off because I'm too scared or too lazy. But, no...NO MORE of that! I'm going to jump in, whether my knees are shaking or not, whether my voice is trembling when I speak, or whether I think nothing good can come from taking a risk. I'm so thankful to have the friends that I do and to not feel like a burden when things just don't make sense to me and I don't have to feel like I'm all alone.

In between our heart to hearts (and you know getting stuff done), we would also "gleek out" for a little, while listening to the soundtrack to Glee on Pandora radio, quoting our favorite episodes or rambling on about Cory Monteith.
I also got a chance to see some of my old teachers or teachers that were around when I went to school there, which is always a blast from the past...And a reminder of how old I'm getting. Have I mentioned that I want it to stop?? haha. Viv's aunt made us yummy food, I got to know/talk with her awesome cousin more (and she informed us all about One Direction and helped us identify who was singing which part, and I thoroughly enjoyed that. I like hearing others talk about their favorite celebs) and today, we also got to take a short trip to the paper supply across the street, which was entertaining. Who knew there were so many different colors and types of papers? Stationary is kind of a fascinating thing to me, so I'm all for it.

Days like this remind me of why I'm here. I have a purpose, and that's to lend a hand, whether it's to a friend or hopefully at some point to a complete stranger to broaden my horizon and to go out further in the world...Or maybe reach someone I'll never even get a chance to meet. Sometimes I have to remind myself to get pumped up for things, because I let things in life drag me down and wear me out too much, when it's not worth it. THIS LIFE IS WORTH LIVING AND GETTING EXCITED ABOUT. I have so many things to look around and feel blessed with, so why should I keep putting myself in a funk??
Take a second and write down five things you're really excited about and 5 things you have, that you sometimes take for granted, but feel so blessed to have. I'm going to do it too. It might not be a bad trend to start on a daily basis just to get into the mindset of pausing to focus on what God's doing and not just what you want Him to do. *SIGH*, I feel better already :)

That's all for now,
Shelby
xoxo

These Are The Days I Want To Remember

Yesterday, I was sitting at my desk watching Glee, eating leftover Chinese food, and texting one of my best friends as we talked and cried over the last season of the show and Cory Monteith's death. I know that probably doesn't sound like much or makes me sound extremely pathetic, but I'm starting to hold these memories closer to my heart, and started thinking, "These are the moments right here." These things that all seem so insignificant right now are really everything. The simple text from a friend, dinner with family, laughing until you can't breathe, trips that aren't planned...All of it.

This is where all of my shaping and growth is really taking place. This is the age where I'm going to make the most mistakes, and then I'm going to bounce back and figure out exactly what I want. These are the days when I'm not responsible for anyone else and the hardest decision I have to make is what kind of cereal do I want for breakfast? Or what show do I want to start next on Netflix next? I know this is probably one of my last summers of being so carefree, so I intend to make the most of it. This is the age to try out new hairstyles, meet new people, listen to your music a little louder, try a new look out...See what works and what doesn't. I think I'm in that stage right now, and I'm really excited about it.

I'm a planner, so sometimes it's hard for me to just enjoy right now, without thinking about thirty years into the future about where I'll be or what I should be doing to get there. Growing up may be hard in some aspects; learning when to let go and when to move on, or whether to hold on for as long as you can. But, eventually you find your way and it'll be really sweet.

That's all for now,
Shelby :)

My Life As Of Lately

I still haven't been keeping as up to date on here as I guess I'd like to, but my focus has been on other things as of lately, so I just haven't gotten around to stopping in. But, I thought I'd change that right about now and catch y'all up to speed on my life.

So, I guess I not many things have changed, but things are good and I'm on my way to some really great things. Until then, my summer is going fabulously! I can't remember the last summer where I had nothing to do; no projects or reading or summer classes to get out of the way. It's kind of weird, I have to admit, but I'm really liking it. I know once school starts I'm not going to have much of a life, so I'm trying to soak up all the free time, whether it's actually being productive and actually getting stuff done around the house, reading or wasting time by looking up pointless videos on YouTube. I'm just enjoying whatever comes along.

Beach trip//

My parents and I went to the beach for the day to celebrate their anniversary. I tagged along yet again, but we had an absolute blast! HA! I had not exactly been in the most pleasant of moods (to put it nicely), but after meeting my cousin for dinner, I started feeling much better. We don't get to see him a lot, so it was great to laugh and hear what he'd been up to. After dinner, we went to the beach and walked along the pier. It was FREEZING outside, but the cold air was such a nice break from the heat at home, so I took a deep breath and admired the ocean and beauty that God has created! Simplicity is what I long for, contrary to most peoples' beliefs, I'm sure. I also got a chance to watch more Glee in the car ride to and from. It was a beautiful day of escaping for a bit, and I never complain about that. 

Amy Grant concert//

Any Grant came to one of our local theaters for a concert and she was incredible. I've seen her in concert before, but this was in a much different setting. She sang more of her gospel songs and some of her other pop hits, and also brought Brandon Heath for several songs. I was so inspired that night with the fact that no matter what happens in this life, God still remains the same. He is peace, love and truth, and things in this world are so uncertain; there will be hard times, yes, but they won't last forever. And when you're having a happy season, celebrate and revel in it, because that is also temporary and life is fleeting. Each and every day, bigger reminders are coming full swing of how intense life can be...and you have to have hope to carry you through, you can't do it alone. Some days, it takes a lot to feel like you have to fight back, but it's worth it. I've been so worried about so many things coming up...getting my license, finalizing last minute things with school, and just where I'm going to end up. Because, I feel like I've always known what I wanted to do, but now I feel as though I'm starting to question everything, and I'm starting from scratch again. Maybe that's okay, you know? But, I feel like I got the confirmation I was looking for. God has His hand on me, and everything is going to work out.

Amy's a great entertainer, and she's also incredibly funny; telling stories about her kids and other little things here and there, it was very laid back. You felt like you were in her living room and she was just visiting with everyone, which makes it feel so much more personal. I am in love with music and performing. If I get to do that the rest of my life, I'd be an incredibly happy person.

After the concert, we went out to dinner with some family friends; chatting about the concert and hearing some old stories about their adventures with my parents back before my time, which is always fun. 

L.A, L.A, Baby//

My parents and I have been going to Dodger games, and I always love being able to explore the wonderful city of L.A before the game. My aunt went with us again this time, and I can't express enough what an amazing day it was! I was in a particularly good mood and something in me just wanted to make the day great, no matter what happened, no matter what anyone said...I wasn't going to let anyone rain on my parade. And you know what? I didn't. Most of what happens to us in life is all a matter of how we look at it and how we respond to it, and it's a lesson I keep having to learn time and time again. But, I think I'm finally starting to catch on.

Anyway, we had lunch at one of our favorite restaurants in the area, and still had some time to kill. Because I am OBSESSED with Glee, I suggested finding the school where they film some of the outdoor dancing scenes (in the lunch area quad) and the football field. My dad was game for it, so we pulled up to the school, only to realize it was the one we had been to before. But, this time, we got out and walked around a bit. Since the school is closed on Saturdays, we could only peek through the fence in certain parts, but I was still just so excited to be there...McKinley High. I was totally "Gleeking" out. I am so thankful that my parents are usually up for an adventure like this, and listen to me go on and on about my favorite fictional couples or the life lessons I learned from the characters on my favorite TV shows, because it is a pretty big passion of mine. They sure are pretty much the coolest. 

After that, we drove around for a bit in a different section of town than we normally do, and there were so many gorgeous buildings we had never seen before. It's amazing how big the city is, so you can live in the area or a couple hours away and still have so much to see/do every time you visit. It keeps things fresh, though. 

The game was at 6:10, and we got there in plenty of time, but we just went to our seats right away this time. It was a really great game and the Dodgers WON!!! WOO! It felt like it went a bit slower, but it was all good; it gave me a chance to spend more time with family, to laugh and joke around, which carried over into the car ride, even as we stopped for Krispy Kreme donuts and Jack in the Box (healthy, right?). As great as the day was, nothing beats laughing until your gut is sore and tears are streaming down your face with the people closest to you. Those are the moments I live for, and I am trying as hard as I can to remember how rare they can be, but to hold onto them and my loved ones every single time.

Another beautiful day for the books. 

Glee//

After Cory Monteith passed away, I suggested to one of my best friends, Viviyan, that we should do a Glee marathon, just sort of in honor of him. I had actually been wanting to do one recently anyway since Netflix added it, but this seemed like the perfect time. I had watched the first three seasons back when the show premiered, but just stopped watching during the 4th, so I wanted to get caught up. She had only seen a couple episodes here and there, but she was hooked after we started watching again on Netflix. And so we now we have been watching and talking about it nonstop, and it has been glorious. I'm pretty sure we've gotten even closer over the past couple weeks, and I didn't think that was possible. I want my life to be an episode of Glee.... It has also been inspiring me to get back into doing music/theater. I really miss it, and Glee has reminded me just why. Performing and being onstage is where I belong. Thank you, Rachel Berry and Lea Michele for helping me see the light again.

In other news, I've been driving a lot more to get practice (DUH), because my test deadline is coming up soon, and I'm really starting to like being behind the wheel. I feel like I'm in control and am actually moving forward with things, which is a big relief and a big weight off of my shoulders; really liberating. I think back to when I started out just a few short months ago; how terrified I was to leave the parking lot of the high school I was learning in or was freaked out the first time I pulled out onto the street and thought a car might come close to me or I'd do something terribly, terribly wrong. Little by little, I have gained the confidence that I needed...and a lot of it comes from just taking that first leap of faith to actually do it, and the next is just a lot of practice. Sure, there are still things I can improve on, but you don't learn until you put yourself in the game...And that's what I intend to. Instead of freaking myself out, I'm just going to get excited that this is just the beginning of all that is to come...and I can't wait. But, I'm also just enjoying right now, and the fact that now I'll be able to drive myself to lunch with friends or to church. Baby steps are good. So, maybe it has taken me a little longer to grow up...oh well. I'm marching to the beat of my own drum. The only one I need to compare myself to is me. 

The past couple days, my mind and heart have just been a little scattered and heavy. There have been so many reminders recently that life is short and the time we have with loved ones is very limited. Or I wonder whether the dreams I hold deepest in my heart will ever come true, and it kills me to think that they might never happen. I freak myself out about my driving test...And all of the what if's start to become a chain reaction. But, you know what? You just have to let them go. What's meant to be will always find a way, right? God has a plan and now it's time to BELIEVE that. 

So...things are good. I'm learning. I'm growing up. I'm moving on. I'm finding who I'm meant to be, and I think I'm starting to enjoy the process. :)

That's all for now,

Shelby <3 nbsp="" p="">