Well, I survived my first week of classes for my senior year of college! I only have two days of school, so that's not bad, but boy are they long days. I hear so many of my friends and other classmates who have way crazier schedules than I do...I just wonder how they do it all, and wonder whether I just need to start doing more. *sigh*
I know that things are only going to pick up from here. So, I'm taking advantage of getting out early, no late nights at the paper and not many assignments. But, some stuff is already due next week and I'm just trying to pretend that it doesn't exist and I will finish in plenty of time.
Each day, I came home with a throbbing headache and not feeling so great for many days (including not eating much). But, now it's time for my four day weekend. I'd say I kicked it off on the right foot.
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There were so many happy things that happened today.
I talked to Dan Smyers of the country duo, Dan + Shay, for a phone interview this morning. And then they followed me on Twitter! WOO!
I went to a small town called Tehachapi with my mom and aunt. We had lunch at one of the local diners, wandered the streets exploring all of the historic sites and meandered through antique stores and boutiques. If you know me at all, you probably know my love for small towns and the way it looks like a Hallmark movie waiting to happen. Today also made me especially happy because fall is certainly in the air. There was a slight breeze that felt like it was stirring change. I was wearing shorts and a sweater shirt sort of thing, but I probably could have worn at least one fall item, like a sweater, boots or pants.
I also smelled candles that were delicious. Walked through the town bakery with all kinds of yummy treats. And I got a Christmas(y) bookmark and some trinkets at one of the thrift stores. Everything was so cheap, how could I not? I found a tea cup and saucer and some nerd glasses. I was pretty excited about it!
We explored the train station. My aunt made me stand on the toy train and take pictures. I objected at first, but finally gave in and was thrilled to find out that the "bark" around the playground was actually small pieces of tire and made you feel very bouncy as you walked on it. I enjoyed it a little too much.
After exploring main street, we decided to get some apples, which is actually what we went there for. Last year, we went a little later in October, so it was extremely busy. Today? We were the only ones. We picked several apples from each different basket, and had a free sample of apple cider, while admiring the mountains and crops all around us with apples and other farm areas growing things. It was a breathtaking day and just what I needed.
We then spent some time shopping at the Dollar Tree, because my aunt wanted tea. Though, I didn't want to, I did end up enjoying the trip. And we had many laughs along the way. I also got a diet coke, so I was happy and satisfied.
The drive back into town was lovely. We listened to Gavin DeGraw's latest CD "Make A Move," and took in the rare sights of mountains, trees and greenery. It's a beautiful sight and makes me feel like I'm in the backwoods of Tennessee or some other southern state. When we were almost back in town, we stopped at Murray Family Farms, which has sort of turned into a tourist stop. There's a store that sells fresh fruit, nuts, and other food. They also sell other goodies, like postcards and such. It's a really neat place. I wanted some veggie chips, but we ended up getting a boysenberry pie. Flowers also surrounded the building, so we walked around the garden for a bit to take pictures. I was personally obsessed with the sunflowers. It was like something out of a Chris Young song..."Texas sunflower yellow can take your breath away."
We didn't a lot of time there, then headed home. My aunt left shortly after. I spent the rest of the evening working on my interview, ate dinner and now I'm finishing it off with my pie and several episodes of Jeopardy. It was a really good day.
The best part? This is just the beginning of a good weekend. Tomorrow is only Friday! YAY :D
That's all for now,
Shelby :)
