Mkay, I fail at blogging take 567...

Here is the un-official announcement that I have dragged my feet about posting.

The story of Aaron and Jess:

Initially I met, or sort of met Aaron at the 2009 Super Bowl party. ( You know, the one between the Steelers and the Cardinals. Where the Steelers WON!!!) Aaron is Patrick DeVaney's best friend, and I happened to be friends with Amber DeVaney. I was sitting on the couch watching the game, when Patrick and Aaron come smashing through the room and sit on top of the people sitting on one of the couches, being loud, and rude, and pardon my French, but royal Assholes to everyone. My distaste for someone had never been peaked so quickly. What irked me even more, was Aaron carried himself differently from anyone else in the room. There was such a different spirit around him. I'd felt that pull from someone once before, and I wanted nothing to do with it, especially if the guy was as rude and pompous, and self-righteous as Aaron seemed to be. (Ironically enough, Aaron immediately 'wrote me off' that night as well. He though Cameron was mine. He'd dated girls with kids before and wanted none of it!) In fact, when Amber started pointing to people and telling me who they were, and sort of informally introducing me to those I didn't know, I got up and left when she said "This is Aaron." I really didn't want to know him! I used Cameron as an excuse. (I had him with me as my family was on their cruise. Cameron was 6 weeks old at this point. If you'll remember this post from that time. I had stayed behind to watch baby, and make sure he had someone there that knew what was going on, and that he was familiar with.) Over the course of the year I grew closer to Amber, and got to know Patrick fairly well. Their dad Lonnie would share his opinion of "You should date Aaron" each time I came over. I made the mistake of asking who it was that owned the Dodge Viper SRT. I received quite the shock when I learned it was Aaron's truck. My first thought: ARE YOU FREAKING KIDDING ME!? THAT ASSWIPE OWNS ONE OF THE SEXIEST TRUCKS ON THIS GREAT GREEN EARTH!?!?!?!?!?!?  

 (This was the truck. Pee-your-pants gorgeous right!?)  The hard truth? Yes, he did, but he sold it as car payments+fuel+Insurance= No money for anything else. He now drives Buck, which I am absolutely in love with. Aaron is well aware I am only dating him for his truck and marrying him for his money. :) (For those of you who can't read sarcasm -- I am totally joking. I actually like Aaron, but only just a little bit. I promise!) Anyway, I avoided Aaron, and he stayed clear of me. I honestly did not like the guy! I couldn't understand how he had friends. He still wanted nothing to do with me, as no one had informed him I did not have a baby. (Because apparently I looked like I'd just had a kid... Yeah, couldn't break my peak of 109 lbs at that point in time, thank you dentist/hospital/heart!) There were a few moments when I'd give him the benefit of the doubt, then he and Patrick would do something stupid and annoying. At Amber's wedding in October Aaron was sort of forced to stop in and say hello to me while I was curling Monica's hair in the bathroom. Lonnie and Patrick wouldn't quit bugging him about it. I however, was super annoyed with him. He was being moody, and beyond ornery. I thought he should just go home if he was going to be a bother the whole day! It wasn't until this summer that we even started talking. Patrick put up a picture of Aaron dressed up as Joe Dirt/Hillbilly. I commented and said "Aaron, we should be friends." He took me seriously, and I accepted. He didn't place who I was, just that I'd said we should be friends I wasn't actually being serious when I'd said that. I was being facetious, he didn't quite catch that part, so he sent a friend request on Facebook. I accepted the request via mobile Facebook. I knew I knew his name, but couldn't place where from, or why it felt so familiar, but I had the distinct impression I needed to accept his request. Aaron began to comment on my status updates, and we'd have mini conversations over Facebook. After about a month (July '10) of these Facebook comment conversations Patrick started to insist Aaron liked me. I didn't think anything of it. I had no interest in seriously dating anyone. I was quite happy with my flippant ways, and my very open, very versatile dating life! I learned Aaron didn't want to date. Period. To put it simply, he'd been through Hell and back with several different girls, and had given up. Meanwhile, God had a different plan for us. Sunnie and I ended up going to Lava Hot Springs for the ward camp out. We both felt like we needed to go, though neither of us really wanted to go, or understood why we felt a strong need to be there. In the end I am really glad we did go. We found Patrick, and Aaron sitting in one of the Hot Springs, and sat down with them. Almost immediately Patrick splashed me and Aaron pulled me under. Hello, nice second-first impression... HA! The next morning (that night wasn't all that amazing... Sun and I were told the wrong location, so we pitched our tent with a bunch of stranger. Aaron and Gavin came over, carried our tend [which was still up] and moved it to the right location) Sunnie and I stuck with Patrick and Aaron. Chatted it up, and left early with them. We followed them to a random location where I was taught how to shoot a gun. :) Sunnie was re-taught how to shoot, but Aaron ended up feeling stupid when Sunnie hit the target right off the bat. Aaron - "You already knew how to shoot a gun didn't you." Sunnie - "I'm a hunter's daughter." Aaron - "Well I feel like an idiot now." BAH hahahahaha! We still laugh about that! You know what is funny about all of this, I didn't process this was the Super-bowl idiot until after I realized I had a small sort of crush on Aaron... Ironic right? Aaron asked me to be his girlfriend Sept. 10, sitting in the back of his truck under a curtain of stars. I knew I was going to marry this kid after about 2 weeks of dating him. It scared me to death, but I knew it. I could feel it. So could he. And so we reach the point we are at now. December of 2010, and planning a wedding. AHHHH! I never thought I'd actually get married. This is going to be a new adventure!

I am unofficially announcing this. Yes, on the internet. I know, smart right!?

I am getting married in a special month on a super neat day in the year 2011 to Aaron R. Durrant. (Obviously...) I'm going to keep the details to myself for now, you'll get them if I love you... Or if your are Tasha and you happen to be the person I text when I am freaking out. :)

I will say this: I AM NOT OFFICIALLY/TECHNICALLY ENGAGED YET! Meaning, Aaron hasn't "officially" proposed yet, and Yes, this is my fault. I asked him not to propose until January 2011 at the very earliest, no holidays, or birthdays... I know it's a little funny, both of our parents are getting tired of us dragging out feet about it... but I have my reasons, and Aaron is just patient enough with me to agree to my plea!

To You I Say

Concentrate on this Sentence: 'To get something you never had, you have to do something you never did.'

Concentrate on this Sentence: 'When God takes something from your grasp, He's not punishing you, but merely opening your hands to receive something better.'

Concentrate on this sentence: 'The will of God will never take you where the Grace of God will not protect you.'

Day 30 (11/15/10) - Who are you?

Who am I?

Why, I am Jessica Meredith Gustafson. I am a daughter of God. I am also the daughter of Micheal and Maryanne Gustafson. I love to laugh. I have blue eyes, and I am 5'3 if I stand up straight and stretch a little bit. I am addicted to music, RedBull, ice cream, fries, and sugar in general. I hate being cold, and still don't understand why I live in Utah. I am who I am because of the people who have been in my life, and I am so grateful for them and their influence. I am a walking oxy moron - I am an intelligent blonde.

Day 29 (11/14/10) - In this past month, what have you learned

I have learned I freak out about commitment more than the average person.
I have learned I NEVER want to own a dog, but will have to conceed eventually.
I have learned I don't do well with people who don't take control of their depression.
I have learned I really don't have a lot of pictures of myself.
I have learned I really do love my family, even though they drive me mad.
I have learned it is okay to publicly announce I am madly in love with a boy named Aaron Durrant.
I have learned I love, love, LOVE Ben and Jerry's ice cream
I have learned my family didn't know I was addicted to RedBull... that's right, I said it, and I am proud of it!
I have learned my hands are almost always cold unless I am with Aaron or Patrick. They keep them warm for me.
I have learned I am actually a fairly easy going person, and according to "the boys" low maintenance. (Which they said was a HUGELY COOL THING. Bah hahaha! I so love Laugh Out Loud moments like that!)
I have learned Aaron knows me better than I do.
I have learned I need to trust my intuition because, it is never wrong.
I have learned I have learned a lot of things!

Day 28 (11/13/10) - A picture of you last year and now, how have you changed since then?

 A picture of my last year:

A picture of me this year:

And how I've changed? Well, for one I am happy. Truly, genuinely happy. I have traveled out of the country. I've moved out of my parents house. I am moving forward in life. I have many new friends, and people I consider to be my family. It's been a really big year for growth, and that is a really good thing!

Day 27 (11/12/10) - Why are you doing this 30 day challenge

In all honesty...?

To pass the time. To help me get back on track with blogging (To which it has, but I've also failed at hitting the post button on time...) and to help count down the days to what will either be July, or April... I'm leaning more towards April... Fewer days to count down, and we all know I HATE math. :)

Day 26 (11/11/10) - What you think about your friends

What a silly question! I think my friends are fantastic people who have helped to create the person I am today. They support me AND my crazy antics. They accept me for who I am and only try to help me better myself.

...That would be the reason they are my friends...

Day 25 (11/10/10) - What I would find in your bag

Right now? Hmmm...

• Glasses - I may or may not be slightly blind at night...
• Ipod/Ear buds - I don't go anywhere without it!
• Pen - Mr. Hassett told me in the 6th grade never to leave home without one.
• Military sized Book Of Mormon - I keep this with me, for comfort purposes.
• Keys - Purpose is obvious....
• Chapstick - I actually have about 3 different brands in my bag. I am addicted.
• Card Case - Again, obvious.
• Tooth Brush/mini toothpaste - I abhor bad breath, and yellow teeth. I will always carry this with me!
• Hand Sanitizer - Um... I blame my OCD...?
• Literature book - I usually have a book of some sort or another with me. You never know when you will have spare time!
• Sugar/candy/snack food - I am hypo-glycemic. Basically I am the opposite of a diabetic... I have to keep my sugar levels up! Good thing I have a sweet tooth and a constant need to snack... Hahahahahahahahaha!

Day 24 (11/9/10) - A letter to your parents

Dear Mum and Papa,

   I want to thank you for everything you have done for me! You have given me life, love, and protection for most of my life. Now that I am on my own, I understand why you had the rules that you did, and the lessons you were so insitent on teaching me. I am now a better person because of you. I know how to cook, clean, and provide for myself and those around me. I am a more courteous person because of you example. I look on every being as a living creature created by a God that loves each of us.

   I want to say I am sorry for the words and actions I have said and done throughout my 22 years, that might have hurt you. I am a stubborn, head-strong girl and though I may not always follow your advice, I do listen to it. I appreciate everything you have tried to share with me.

   As I move forward in my days, and take steps toward beginning my own family I want you to know I am better prepared because of you. I am more equipt to handle the stresses of marriage, and life in general because of your examples and the way that you have raised me.

I lift my glass to you!

I love you!

Love always,

Your daughter,

Jessica Meredith

Day 23 (11/8/10) - Something you crave for a lot

I am sort of known for my cravings... Especially my midnight cravings which usually inclued one or more of the following:

• French Fries
• Chocolate Raspberry Shakes or any shake for that matter...
• Ben and Jerry Ice Cream - Yellow Brickie Road, Mud Pie, Half Baked
• Dark Chocolate Pomegranate
• Bean and Cheese Burrito
• Aaron (Cheesy and ridiculous? Yes.)

Day 22 (11/7/10) - What makes you different from everyone else

I have a quote on the side bar of this blog that kind of sums up what makes me different from everyone else. If you don't mind I'll just copy and paste that quote onto this post!

"You're an artist, you feel things differently from other people... You're an artist, you see things differently from other people... You're an artist, you say things differently from other people... You are an artist Jess... you are different from other people."

Day 21 (11/6/10) - A picture of something that makes you happy

 Music has always been a vice for me.

These two boys continually make me laugh.

I know that is two pictures, but I couldn't decide! :)

Day 20 (11/5/10) - Someone you see yourself marrying/being with in the future

Bah hahaha! Wow! Well, this one is slightly ironic...

Seeing as I have a wonderful, fantastic, and all around perfect-for-me boyfriend I am going to say Aaron.

I really do love this man!

Day 19 (11/4/10) - Nicknames you have; why do you have them

Well, my mother calls me Shoe Shine, which was shortened to Shoom Shoom - I am the daughter of a Shoe Repair man. As a baby I loved the spinning brushes on the shoe shine machine. I would assume that is where it came from.

Most of the population now calls me Miss Jess. It began with Stanley, and spread. I have no idea why.

Sis is another common nickname. It started with my uncle Tim, and a few people have continued the name.

Ace came from Nathan Steele. I've always wanted to be a writer, much as Rory Gilmore, and I remind him of Rory, hence the same nick name.

Any and all forms of Jessica are used. Ie: Jess, Jessi, Ica, etc.

Day 18 (11/3/10) - Plans/dreams/goals you have

Plans/Dreams/Goals I have? How about I just give you my long term to-do list. That's about the same thing isn't it!?

• Laptop - I have needed to get a new laptop since my senior year of high school. The one I was using had an accident. The power cord met with my (then) boyfriend's foot (accidentally) and sadly passed away... I have been without ever since.
• School - Finish school, plain and simple. (Make sure to take a photography, and egyptian history, and WWII History classes to reward yourself for finally getting back into school!)
• Plan for July - This particular item has it's own to-do list, and I swear it gets longer each week!
• Apartment - Find one that suits, and begin the necessary journey to furnish it before it is time to move in. (Preferrably next year... things are moving too fast for my comfort levels just now!)
• Progress at WCPC - meaning stay long enough to save for at least July's events expense, preferrably more, and get a good standing at an employment location so I can change jobs or pick up a second one if I need to/so desire.
• Write a New York Times Best Seller - Meaning finish the book I am currently writing, and begin the second one I am going to write with my Aunt Olivia Gustafson LaBar.
• Car - Get a new car by the end of 2011 (Preferrably with 4WD so Aaron will stop worrying about me driving in Utah weather) so that Leesa can have the Lumina. (It's a good first car. Sturdy. Heavy. Basically, the thing is a tank, she would have a hard time trying to smash it! It will keep her safe!)
• Miss Me Jeans - One day I will break down and actually purchase a pair or two for me. They are the ONLY pair of jeans that fits in all directions. Perfectly. And as Buckle hems your jeans so they fit you length wise, they will be absolutely divine!
• Boston - One day I will go to Boston/Washington D.C. in the fall. It will happen!
• E.T.C. And so forth!

Day 17 (11/2/10) - Someone you would want to switch lives with for one day and why

Hmmm, someone I would want to switch lives with for one day? In all honesty I don't know that I want to switch lives with anyone right now, but if I had to, I'd have to say Joseph Smith. As for why I'd have only this reason, to know him better. I've been reading The Story of Jospeh Smith, writen by Lucy Mack Smith. I would love to understand what it was he felt, and everything he had to go through. I think it would give me a better understanding, and a greater appreciation for everything he has given to the world, and to me personally. I know that is funny to say, but without the Church Of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints I truly would not be where I am today. I would not have the amazing people I have in my life. I would probably still be an angry kid; bitter against the religion of my father, and the neglect I felt as a child. I would not understand forgiveness, repentence, or what it is to have a Christ-like love for someone. There is so much that a person gains from being an honest member of the church. Not only do the gospel principles make sense, along with the values and morals, but it really is a choice thing. It is a lifestyle that we choose. We choose not to consume alcohol/drugs. We choose abstinence. We choose all of those things that separates the LDS religion from the rest of the world, and we live them because we want to. Joseph Smith, in his faith and trust in the Lord, has given me all that. I can't say if what I just typed is going to be understood by anyone but myself, but that is my honest answer to this question.

If I must choose someone fun, and random then I'd really have to say Joss Stone. The girl is crazy! She writes music like it's nothing, has a voice full of soul, and she isn't afraid to go out and do what she believes/wants/feels like doing. She really is the embodiment of the quote: "Give 'em hell, give 'em hell, give 'em hell! There are never enough trouble makers fighting for justice..."

Day 16 (11/1/10) - Another picture of yourself

This picture was taken in front of the Aztec temple, Jaguar, in Lamani [Belize]... (Laman - Lamani... Get the reference!?)

Day 15 (10/31/10)- Put your iPod on shuffle: First 10 songs that play

Well this one should prove interesting... Lets see what happens shall we!

1:  Adia - Sarah McLachlan, Closer: The Best Of Sarah McLachlan
2: This Is Me - Demi Lovato, Camp Rock Soundtrack
3: Damn Girl - The All-American Rejects, When The World Comes Down
4: !Viva La Gloria! - Green Day, 21 Century Breakdown
5: You Can Run, But We'll Find You - Matchbox Romance, Voices
6: Last Letter - Katharine McPhee, Unbroken
7: Can't Stay Away - Kris Allen, Kris Allen
8: I'm Not In The Mood - Shania Twain, Up (Red Disc)
9: Megalomaniac - Incubus, A Crow Left Of The Murder
10: The Hat - Ingrid Michaelson, Girls and Boys

Day 14 (10/30/10) - A picture of you and your family

My family sort of fails at taking yearly family pictures. The most recent one of the whole family I have is from last July ('09)...

The Boys: Micheal (Dad), Ryan, and Cameron

The Girls: Maryanne (Mom), Jess, Leesa, Miranda, Emma

(Yes, this is a candid shot...)

Day 13 (10/29/10) - A letter to someone who has hurt you recently

I don't know if I can/should do this one. I haven't been hurt by anyone recently number one, and two I don't know that I'd put something like that on the internet!

I will say good luck to S.L.L. and L.L.S. (HA! How funny, their initials are mirror images of one another!) Thank you for the letter L. L. S. I have a response for you, I will be sending it in the mail in a day or two! And, of course I forgive you! It was forgiven years ago!

Amos J. don't be so hard on yourself! Trust will come, just give it time my friend. Also, a mistake is a mistake, you two will be back on your feet in no time. This is just a minor set back! I love you!

Day 12 (10/28/10) - How you found out about Blogs and why you made one

In all honesty I don't really remember how I heard about blogs. I've always seemed to have some sort of a blog type website.

I made one so that I would have somewhere to put my thoughts. It's faster to type them than to write them down, though I do keep a journal, and secretly I wanted input on what I was saying. I wanted to know if what I had to say was worth saying, and if I really did have a talent with words outside of achedemics. (meaning english teachers that liked my poetry/essays)

Day 11 (10/27/10) - Another picture of you and your friends

Camping Pictures! Yay!

Aaron, Patrick, and myself unloading the 'not stolen' wood the boys found from somewhere or someone.

Becky and I showing off the natural look. HA!

Day 10 (10/26/10) - Songs you listen to when you are Happy, Sad, Hyped, Bored, Mad

Songs I listen to when I am happy: The upbeat kind...? Nah, I have so many songs I listen to when I am happy. I love music. What can I say!?

Songs I listen to when I am sad: Erm... Bad Day - Daniel Powter...? Haha, seriously though it depends on what upset me at the time. More often than not, Train, Brandi Carlile, Sara Bareilles, or classical.

Songs I listen to when I am Hyped: HA! Venga boys was on that list for a long time, thanks to Brooke for that... For some reason I love listening to R&B when I am super hyper.

Songs I listen to when I am bored: I will typically put my ipod on shuffle and let it play whatever. Like now for example... this is what came up...


Songs I listen to when I am mad: Honestly, Beth Hart has the best angry lady voice I have ever heard! I love listening to her gravel voice. It's amazing. Brandi Carlile of course! Then you also have Skillet, Shinedown, Seether, you know the harder edge Rock stuff. Though, if it's boy related it has to be Lover Lover by Jerrod Niemann!

Day 9 (10/25/10) - Something you’re proud of in the past few days

I survived camping in the rain/snow!!! I learned what hunting is. Also, I made a new friend. Enjoyed time with Patrick, Aaron, and Becky. I re-affirmed my loathing of cold, but the scenery was Breathtaking! Currant Creek Canyon really is a gorgeous place! Especially with the trees crystalized in snow!

I really do love camping, though I would really like to experience it when it isn't pouring rain and/or freezing!

Day 8 (10/24/10) - Short term goals for this month and why

Hmmm, I think I'll type in my goals for the month of November.

* Figure out what to get Aaron for his birthday.
* Purchase a book shelf. Most likely from Ikea.
* Purchase 3-5 pairs of scrubs. Solid colors.
* Begin Christmas shopping.
* Pick colors.

Day 7 (10/23/10) - A picture of someone/something that has the biggest impact on you

I would need a bigger posting for all of the people that have had an impact on me. I will give you the first 5 that came to mind though!

 

 Aaron Durrant

 Johanna Adams

 Marisa Hall

Stanley Lloyd

Sunnie Rushton

Day 6 (10/22/10) - Favorite super hero and why

My favorite super hero? That would have to be super man. I love Batman don't get me wrong, but he isn't a super hero. He is a hero with super neat gadgets and inventions, but batman is by far the greatest superhero aside from our Savior, parents, and those special people in our lives that serve as real life super heros!

Day 5 (10/21/10)- A picture of somewhere you’ve been to

In February of this year (2010) My mum, sister, and I went on a Bahama cruise. We stopped at 4 ports. Cozumel Mexico, Belize, Honduras, and Costa Maya. I don't have my cruise pictures on this computer, these I stole from my sisters facebook page... so here are 3 of the locations we went to!

 Cozumel Mexico.

 Belize

Honduras

Day 4 (10/20/10) - A habit that you wish you didn’t have

Hmmm, well there are a few actually, but I'd have to say apologizing. I apologize for everything. Even if it isn't my fault! I'll take the blame for it. It's silly, but there you have it!

Wow that was a short post! Haha! So I'll post a photography I have entitled Apologize.

Day 3 (10/19/10) - A picture of you and your friends

As I am on Trever's computer, the pictures will be scarce. They'd be few and far between anyway as I really don't like taking pictures of me. I enjoy standing behind the camera!

 This would be from March 2009 I believe. Myself, Amy, and McKenna!

 Yeah, that's right, Sunnie and I met Brandi Carlile! September 2010

 May 2008. Stanley, Myself, Brooke, Bootcamp Mike.

 July 2009 Chris and I.

Bah hahaha! Casa Blanca pool, June 2010. Sunnie and I.

Day 2 (10/18/10)- The meaning behind your Blog name

The meaning behind my blog name. 'Some Days You Just Shouldn't Ask'

I think it's pretty self explanatory...

Some days you really should not ask what I was thinking... More often than not I couldn't really tell you anyway. :)

Day 1 (10/17/10) - A recent picture of you and 15 interesting facts about yourself

This is the most recent picture of myself I have on this particular computer. :) It's from this past February, when I went on the Bahama/Mexico Gulf cruise with my family. This is my sister Leesa and I at the beach in Honduras.

1: I am naturally a strawberry blond, but I highlight my hair to blend in the platinum blond strips that grow in along my face line. If I don't it looks like I have racing stripes when I pull my hair into a pony tail. :)
2: I have an obsession with french fries, and RedBull.
3: I read. All the time.
4: I prefer to 'feel' a situation out before I really take active part in what is going on.
5: I tend to date people with the same name. Un-intentionally.
6: I love to learn about new ways to learn how to read/identify/understand different personalities.
7: I have always wanted a summer wedding.
8: I have more guy friends than girl friends.
9: I hate the cold, and I can't stand snow after Christmas passes.
10: My favorite dessert is Cannoli.
11: My favorite flowers are lilies, roses, and Gerber daisies.
12: I love to travel.
13: I haven't had a 'real' job in over 2 years. Not really by choice, but it's turned out to be a blessing.
14: I love old movies. Pride and Prejudice, Gone With The Wind, Roman Holiday, etc.
15: I understand/speak car language, and can fix my own vehicle, but am rarely 'allowed' to because I am a girl.

30 Days and Counting

I have been failing at maintaining my blog, and I think this might help me a little bit. It's a 30 day, day by day, blog posting all about you chart thingy... Also, I find it interesting to read the other blogs I've seen this on. This is the list. Feel free to copy and paste!

Day 1 - A recent picture of you and 15 interesting facts about yourself
Day 2 - The meaning behind your Blog name
Day 3 - A picture of you and your friends
Day 4 - A habit that you wish you didn’t have
Day 5- A picture of somewhere you’ve been to
Day 6 - Favorite super hero and why
Day 7 - A picture of someone/something that has the biggest impact on you
Day 8 - Short term goals for this month and why
Day 9 - Something you’re proud of in the past few days
Day 10- Songs you listen to when you are Happy, Sad, Bored, Hyped, Mad
Day 11 - Another picture of you and your friends
Day 12- How you found out about Blogs and why you made one
Day 13 - A letter to someone who has hurt you recently
Day 14- A picture of you and your family
Day 15 - Put your iPod on shuffle: First 10 songs that play
Day 16 - Another picture of yourself
Day 17 - Someone you would want to switch lives with for one day and why
Day 18- Plans/dreams/goals you have
Day 19- Nicknames you have; why do you have them
Day 20 - Someone you see yourself marrying/being with in the future
Day 21 - A picture of something that makes you happy
Day 22 - What makes you different from everyone else
Day 23 - Something you crave for a lot
Day 24- A letter to your parents
Day 25 - What I would find in your bag
Day 26- What you think about your friends
Day 27 - Why are you doing this 30 day challenge
Day 28- A picture of you last year and now, how have you changed since then?
Day 29 - In this past month, what have you learned
Day 30- Who are you?

Aaron - The Boyfriend

Now, I usually kept my dating life to myself. I don't like to spread around who I date, or if I like anyone at the moment. I find that to be my business... But! As I have finally relented on the boyfriend front and it's even facebook official -- I figure it's time to make it blog official.

His name is Aaron. He will be 24 in November. He graduated from Copper Hills High School. He is a diesel mechanic, and yes that is what he wants to do career wise. He is a Ford fan, but I forgive him as he drives a 3500 Dodge Ram Cummins, extended long bed, gun metal gray. (Basically, he drives a massive gray, dodge diesel truck) He loves hunting and being outdoors, but has a secret weakness for Pride and Prejudice and theatre. (Don't tell anyone I told you... Haha!) His family always comes first. He's the best friend you'll ever have. He served an LDS mission in Mississippi. He won over my daddy instantly, it was amazing! We speak the same language. (I know right! I didn't know that was possible either!) He makes me laugh like no else can. I am loving getting to know him, and enjoying every minute I am given with him!

You have to go through it to get to the end of it.

Model: Sarah
Taken: 2006, re-edited 2010

Short update... 

Living with Sunnie and her brother Trever. 

     -Long story but here is the shortest version I can come up with -- my mom finally lost it. She flipped over something I didn't do, but since I am the one that is always around I got the brunt of it.  Scared Sunnie who was on the phone with me at the time. Blah blah this, blah blah that, she can't decide if she likes me or not (I love my mum, she's just super stressed.) so I'm left somewhat homeless for now. Which has actually been fine! I was able to spend more time with my daddy while he was in the hospital! I've been adopted by the Rushton family, and I've been able to make new friends and visit old ones! Yay!

Hopefully starting work with Grandma Gus.

     -I am actually really excited for this one! Not really sure what I'll be doing, but my grandmother is a cool lady!

Daddy is home.

     -Open heart surgery went really well! He's up and moving around.

Boys, boys, boys.

     -I've had lots of fun these past few months, making friends, playing with old ones, and accomplishing things on the bucket list! Also, I was given a new CTR ring! It's quite pretty! Thanks Amos! AND! I may or may not have finally ended my boyfriend boycott...

Ta Da!

Learning to Breathe

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It's not just in some of us; it's in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”

Thank you Alexander for the photograph.

Struck By Lightning

For as long as I can remember lightning storms have been a source of excitement and wonder for me. Some of my favorite childhood memories come  from the summer storms that would blow over the top of our little 'gingerbread' house. My dad, brother Ryan, and I used to sit on our back porch and watch them in the summer afternoons. My dad would tell us stories about his childhood, and we'd laugh about the things Leesa would do, or how angry mom would get over the most ridiculous things! That backyard, defined by the line of trees, roses, and fence the Reids constantly protected from our "monkey fanatics" provided the greatest area for 3 siblings, and a handful of daycare kids to play around in. We had trees to climb, sprinklers with a mind of their own, ghosts, the best trampoline you could imagine, grass that seemed to go on for days when it came time to drag out the lawn mower, but best of all a covered porch big enough for a platic kitchen set, a picnic table, a 4 chair outdoor table, a park bench, and carpeted in the fake backyard turf/carpet/thingy that I swear was stolen from the backyard of the Brady Bunch. The thing was huge and covered by green fiber-glass that we weren't allowed to walk on because it would break. (Though we learned we could still jump off the roof and onto the trampoline if we climbed the garage roof, or walked on the boards that formed the support of the fiber-glass stuff.) That roof was the BEST place to watch lightning storms! Nature really is a wonder. I hadn't thought about that old faded red porch until last night as I was laying on the cement in the middle of temple square watching the lightning dance across the heavens. I was thinking about how much had changed in the last 10-15 years of my life. The people I had met, and wondering what would have happened had my family never moved from Bountiful to South Jordan. Would I have grown up the way I did, and chosen the classes I had in high school. Would I have re-connected with some of my old elementary school friends as I have recently, or would I have drifted from them the way I have from the people I did go to high school with. There really isn't a way to know what could have happened, or would have happened. I came to the conclusion that everything had happened for a reason that I wasn't yet aware of, and I had met the people I had met because I was supposed to. Makes a girl wonder why, but I guess those answers will have to come later on in life, or when I see it all rewound and re-played on a big screen in Heaven.

It's strange that all this introspection was brought on my a simple lightning storm, but I'd guess it's all part of the magic and wonder that comes with a strip of energy striking the earth, and lighting up the sky.

Title: Struck By Lightning

Photography thank you to: Anna

Somewhere Only We'd Go

Oh simple thing where have you gone

I'm getting old and I need something to rely on

So tell me when you're gonna let me in

I'm getting tired and I need somewhere to begin

So if you have a minute why don't we go

Talk about it somewhere only we know?

This could be the end of everything

So why don't we go

So why don't we go

This could be the end of everything

So why don't we go

Somewhere only we know?

Oh The Places You'll Go...

I was thumbing my way through a few memories today while contemplating a rather bizarre dream I'd had last night when I came across 'Oh the Places You'll Go...' By Dr. Seuss. This book has always been a favorite of mine. It seems to me, the more you read it, the more you realize just how much depth this simple book has.

Congratulations!

Today is your day,

You're off to great places!

You're off and away!

You have brains in your head.

You have feet in your shoes.

You can steer yourself any direction you choose.

You're on your own. And you know what you know.

And you are the guy who'll decide where to go.

You'll look up and down streets. Look 'em over with care.

About some you will say, "I don't choose to go there."

With your head full of brains, and your shoes full of feet,

you're too smart to go down any not-so-good street.

And you may not find any you'll want to go down.

In that case, of course, you'll head straight out of town.

It's opener there in the wide open air.

Out there things can happen, and frequently do, to people as brainy, and footsy as you.

And when things start to happen, don't worry. Don't stew.

Just go right along.

You'll start happening too.

Oh!

The places you'll go!

You'll be on your way up!

You'll be seeing great sites!

You'll join the high fliers; who soar to high heights.

You won't lag behind, because you'll have the speed.

You'll pass the whole gang and you'll soon take the lead.

Wherever you fly, you'll be best of the best.

Wherever you go, you will top all the rest.

Except when you don't.

Because, sometimes, you won't.

I'm sorry to says so but, sadly, it's true, that bang-ups, and hang-ups, can happen to you.

You can get all hung up in a prickle-ly perch.

And your gang will fly on.

You'll be left in a lurch.

You'll come down from the lurch with an unpleasant bump.

And the chances are, then, that you'll be in a slump.

And when you're in a slump, you're not in for much fun.

Un-slumping yourself is not easily done.

You will come to a place where the streets are not marked.

Some windows are lighted. But mostly they're darked.

A place that could sprain both elbow and chin!

Do you dare to stay out? Do you dare to go in?

How much can you lose? How much can you win?

And IF you should go in, should you turn left or right... or right-and-three-quaters?

Or maybe not quite?

Or go around and back and sneak from behind?

Simple it's not, I'm afraid you will find, for a mind-maker-upper to make up his mind.

You can get so confused that you'll start in to race down long and wiggled roads at a break-necking pace, and grind on for miles across weirdish wild space, headed, I fear, toward a most usless place.

The Waiting Place...

...for people just waiting.

Waiting for a train to go, or a bus to come, or a plane to go, or the mail to come, or the rain to go, or the phone to ring, or the snow to snow, or waiting around for a yes or a no, or waiting for their hair to grow.

Everyone is just waiting.

Waiting for the fish to bite, or waiting for wind to fly a kite, or waiting around for Friday night, or waiting, perhaps, for their uncle Jake, or a pot to boil, or a better break, or a string of pearls, or a pair of pants, or a wig with curls, or another chance.

Everyone is just waiting.

NO!

That's not for you!

Somehow you'll escape all that waiting and staying.

You'll find the bright places where boom bands are playing.

Oh, the places you'll go! There is fun to be done!

There are points to be scored. There are games to be won.

And the magical things you can do with that ball will make you the winning-est winner of all.

Fame! You'll be famous as famous can be, with the whole wide world watching you win on TV.

Except when they don't.

Because, sometimes, they won't.

I'm afraid that some times you'll play lonely games too.

Games you can't win 'cause you'll play against you.

All alone!

Whether you like it or not.

Alone will be something you'll be quite a lot.

And when you're alone, theres a very good chance you'll meet things that scare you right out of your pants.

There are some, down the road between hither and yon, that can scare you so much you won't want to go on.

But on you will go though the weather be foul.

On you will go though your enemies prowl.

On you will go though the Hakken-Kraks howl.

Onward up many a frightening creek, though you arms may get sore and your sneakers may leak.

On and on you will hike.

And I know you'll hike far and face up to your problems whatever they are.

You'll get mixed up of course, as you already know.

You'll get mixed up with many stray birds as you go.

So be sure when you step, step with care and great tact and remember that life's a great balancing act.

Just never forget to be dexterous and deft.

And never mix up your right foot with you left.

And will you succeed?

Yes! You will indeed!

(98 and 3/4 percent garanteed!)

Kid, you'll move mountains!

So... be your name Buxbaum or Bixby or Bray or Mordecai Ali Van Alenn O'Shea you're off to Great Places!

Today is your day!

Your mountain is waiting.

So... get on your way!

PHOTOGRAPHY:

Title: Street Signs

Taken: 2010

Models: Leesa, Miranda, and Emma Gustafson

Taken: 2007

Random Word Vomit

As I was writing in my journal and pondering the different things I going on around me, words began flowing across the page, and before I knew it I had answered my own questions. I had found the hope I had so desperately been searching for.

Life is going to come with all sorts of ups and downs. People will come and go, the faces will change, but the lessons learned will remain in our hearts forever. At times your feelings will be hurt, but there will be moments when your heart knows what it is to fly. It's all part of living and experiencing what it is to be alive! It's learning to live freely, love willingly, and trust openly. It's having the faith to move mountains even if that means taking it one shovelful at a time and knowing that with God, and through God, absolutely Nothing is impossible! (Luke 1:37) We don't need to know the ending before beginning a journey, or to begin a journey. We just need to trust that God knows the end and no matter what, his will, will be done with or without our, or anyone elses, approval! All he asks is that we believe and follow his words. He will take care of the rest.

It's like two of my wall quotes say:

'Accept the things to which fate binds you. Love the people to whom fate brings you, but do so with all of your heart.'

'Promise me you'll always remember: You're braver than you believe, and stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.'

Isn't it strange how we almost always have the answers to our questions already within us? We just have to quiet our minds long enough to hear them.

Stuck On Repeat

I had this blasted song stuck in my head for the entire Independence weekend!

You think you're better, you're better than me/You blow me off as history/To avoid conversation you're ignoring me.

When you've had enough and you need somebody to know/Well, you're looking tough but you need a way to let it go/Come on now, what's a boy s'posed to do/ When I can't seem to leave you alone touching me touching you.

I wanna be your brother, wanna be your father too/Never make you run for cover even if they want us to/I wanna be your sister, wanna be your mother to/I wanna be, wanna be whatever else that touches you.

Whatever else that touches you/Whatever else that touches you.

For fear of losing, losing your way/Just stop and listen to the things that they say/To avoid confrontation you walk away.

(Hey!) Growing up, found the need to compromise/ (Hey!) Well, I've had enough 20 year and I realized/(Hey!) Come on now, what's a boy s'posed to do/(Hey!)When I can't seem to leave you alone, touching me touching you.

I wanna be your brother, wanna be your father too/Never make you run for cover even if they want us to/I wanna be your sister, wanna be your mother to/ I wanna be, wanna be whatever else that touches you.

I wanna be your brother, wanna be your father too/Never make you run for cover even if they want us to/I wanna be your sister, wanna be your mother to/ I wanna be, wanna be whatever else that touches you.

Whatever else that touches you [x4]

When you've had enough and you need somebody to know/Well, you're looking tough but you need a way to let it go/Come on now, what's a boy s'posed to do/But I can't seem to leave you alone, touching me touching you.

This isn't a perfect love/One that we're guilty of/What am I supposed to do/Can't seem to leave you alone/Touching me touching you

This isn't a perfect love (I wanna be your brother, wanna be your father too) / One that we're guilty of (Never make you run for cover even if they want us to) / What am I supposed to do (I wanna be your sister, wanna be your mother too) / Can't seem to leave you alone touching me touching you (I wanna be wanna be whatever else that touches you) [x2]

All Because Nostalgia Came Out To Play.

Getting close to someone is something I've realized I don't do all that often. Giving someone a chance to know your secrets, and understand why you are the way you are...It sort of terrifies me. That is a vulnerability I don't often like to experience.  I have this complex, I supose you could call it -- I am convinced that People Always Leave. 

'The pitter pat of long lost days dance echos in my mind. All because a simple word brought nostalgia out to play. The game of learning a heart, is a dangerous game, tells the soul that knows people rarely stay. A new rule, or addition to be learned with each new player joining; ideas shared, and names handed round filled the days will smiles and laughter. They came to play for one round, maybe two, but never made it to the last. The game was always finished with only one set of footprints left in the playground sand.'

(originally written in 2006)

But you know, when you do get to know someone -- I mean really know them, you have this set way of speaking. A language that belongs to the two of you. Inside jokes, play-on words, and phrases that incure certain emotions, and/or significant memories. There are things you don't realize were 'special' to your relationship until someone says something, and you respond with your 'normal' retort... and they give you the "wrong" answer... It makes you miss that one person, and soon your day is lost to a walk down a lane you didn't realize was covered in crisp autumn leaves... each step louder than the next...

Hell Hath No Fury Like A Blonde On A Soapbox...

Ventation of things that have really irked me this month...

1: Being given the write off because I have blonde hair.

(P.S. Jo sent me this flair button, and I thought I'd share it...)

2: Having an argument started over whether or not Facts carry emotions.

 (P.S.They do not. A fact is a fact. Opinions of the fact carry the emotions.Your opinion of the fact will incure what you feel and how you feel. Not the fact itself. IE whether or not a death is a tragedy or an honor -- either way that person is still dead!)

3: People who can't keep their opinions to themselves, especially biased ones that are based mostly on assumptions.

4: Being called overly dramatic after stating my opinion that every person is owed common courtesy, no matter the circumstances.

5: Having judgement placed on my head because I refuse to take a situation personally.

6: The lack of respect, and foresight, and the increase in cowardice being shown by the men passing through my life at this moment.